JP2003043868A - Image processor and method of controlling image processor and memory medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To transfer a plurality of image processors existing on a network respectively to a sleep mode state by broadcast-issuing the sleep mode shift instructions of the respective image processors according to the sleep mode transfer time information stored in the unique image processor. SOLUTION: The sleep mode transfer time information to save the consumption of the electric power supplied to the image processor bodies stored in a memory device within an output device 21 and the present time to be timekept are compared and the sleep mode shift instructions to shift the image processors to the sleep mode to save the consumption of the electric power to be supplied to the image processor bodies are respectively issued to another output devices 22 to 28, by which the power saving environment of the output devices on the network are integrally matched.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus in which a plurality of image processing apparatuses capable of shifting to a power saving mode in which each of the plurality of image processing apparatuses saves power consumption can communicate with each other via a predetermined communication medium. The present invention relates to a control method of an image processing device and a storage medium.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, it has been necessary to construct a computer network (hereinafter simply referred to as a network) in which various computers and their peripheral devices are connected to each other so that information can be bidirectionally communicated. This technology has been in the limelight because users can dramatically improve productivity and efficiency by sharing information and distributing the load of information processing.

Due to the rapid performance improvement, downsizing and cost reduction of the computer, it has become possible to easily use it as a high-speed and high-speed information processing means even for a computer for personal use. These include the development of wireless high-speed data communication technology and the penetration of distributed processing architecture.

Further, output devices such as copiers and printers, which have been mostly used as stand-alone devices or peripheral devices connected to a single host until then, are arranged on the same network, and a plurality of output devices are arranged. The idea of sharing and using with other users (clients) has become widespread.

It has become possible to share information stored in files, databases, etc. by connecting a mainframe, a workstation, a personal computer, an information terminal and the like using the above-mentioned computer through a network. Further, the output devices such as a copying machine, a printer, and an F
By connecting an AX or the like, the output device can also be shared, and the productivity and efficiency of the output device and the convenience of the user can be dramatically improved.

The advantage of constructing a network in this way is great, and it is spreading in various fields such as offices, factories, research laboratories, and educational institutions.

[0007]

By the way, when an output device such as a copying machine or a printer requires an image forming request from a user, each step necessary for image forming is required to satisfy the request. In order to process each of these processes, the output device controls the image reading unit, the image processing unit, the paper feeding unit, the developing unit, the transfer unit, the fixing unit, the paper discharging unit, other accessories, and the accessories in an integrated manner. It is composed of a control unit. In order to output an image, it is necessary to supply a large amount of power to each of these output devices.

In order for the output device to quickly respond to the image output request from the user, it is necessary to continue supplying a certain amount of power to each device inside the output device. However, the usage environment of the output device in which the image output request is constantly generated is rare, and there are times when the image output request from the user to the output device is greatly reduced, and when the image output request is hardly generated. Generally present.

When there is no image output request to the output device for a long time, the electric power supplied to each device in the output device during that time is wasted.

Therefore, in an output device such as a copying machine or a printer, the internal control device has a time measuring means such as a timer device, and the timer device is activated by a user's operation. When the time set in advance is reached, the control unit of the printer device controls the power supply to each device other than the minimum required, thereby significantly reducing the power consumption. Printer devices have already been proposed.

With the above-described configuration, the power consumption of the output device is reduced by shifting to the sleep state of the output device during the time period when the image output request is greatly reduced or the time period when the image output request is hardly generated. Can be expected to do.

However, in an environment where a plurality of output devices each having a timer device as described above are used, conventionally, the user has to visit each output device and perform a setting operation for the timer device. In terms of convenience of
It wasn't always excellent.

Similarly, there is a high possibility that each user will perform different setting operations on the timer device of each output device. At this time, when looking at power consumption reduction in the entire environment in which each output device is placed, the power consumption reduction efficiency was not good.

Further, it is possible that the user forgets to set the timer device due to a mistake made by the user, and this is also a major factor that hinders the reduction of power consumption.

The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and a first object of the present invention is to save a power saving mode transition time for saving the power consumption supplied to the main body of the image processing apparatus to be stored. A unique image is generated by comparing the information with the current time and issuing a power-saving mode transition command to each of the other image processing devices to shift to a power-saving mode that saves power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body. According to the power saving mode shift time information stored in the processing device, a power saving mode shift command for a plurality of image processing devices existing on the network is broadcast to shift each image processing device to the power saving mode. Image processing apparatus capable of collectively adjusting the power saving environment of the processing apparatus to freely construct an image processing environment having a high power saving effect, control method of the image processing apparatus, and storage It is to provide a body.

A second object is to acquire the group information of the own apparatus from the server apparatus and compare the current time with the power saving mode transition time information for saving the power consumption stored in the image processing apparatus main body. , Is stored in a unique image processing device by respectively issuing a power saving mode transition command to another image processing device of the same group to shift to a power saving mode that saves power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body. According to the power saving mode shift time information, a power saving mode shift command for the image processing apparatuses in the same group existing on the network is broadcast to shift the image processing apparatuses in the same group to the power saving mode respectively. Image processing apparatus and image processing capable of freely constructing an image processing environment having a high power saving effect by collectively matching the power saving environment of the image processing apparatus To provide a control method and a storage medium location.

[0017]

A first aspect of the present invention is an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with another image processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, and is supplied to an image processing apparatus main body. A storage unit (corresponding to a non-volatile memory provided in the controller unit of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) that stores power saving mode transition time information for reducing power consumption, and a first time counting unit that measures the current time. (Corresponding to a timer in the controller unit of each output device 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1),
The transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means is compared with the current time measured by the first timing means, and the power consumption is supplied to the image processing apparatus main body to other image processing apparatuses. And a first control unit (corresponding to the controller unit of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) that issues a power saving mode shift command to shift to the power saving mode.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, when a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received, the power saving mode shift command is executed according to the power saving mode shift command, or a power saving mode shift command is issued. It is characterized by having a second control means (corresponding to the controller unit of each output device 21-28 shown in FIG. 1) for selecting either to ignore.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a setting means for setting whether to shift to a power saving mode according to a power saving mode shift command or to ignore the power save mode shift command based on a user selection instruction (FIG. Each output device 21 shown in FIG.
~ 28 corresponding to the operation unit), the second control means,
Based on the setting state by the setting means, when the power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices is received, whether to shift to the power saving mode according to the power saving mode shift command or ignore the power saving mode shift command. It is characterized by performing control to select either one.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, based on a power saving mode transition command received from any of the image processing devices,
It is characterized by having a third control means (corresponding to the controller unit of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) for shifting to a power saving mode for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body.

A fifth aspect of the present invention is a state determining device (see FIG. 1) for determining whether or not predetermined image processing is being performed when a power saving mode transition command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received. (Corresponding to the controller unit of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown), and the third control means, when the state determination means determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the power saving mode after the predetermined image processing is completed. It is characterized by shifting to a state.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is a counting means (see FIG. 1) for counting the response state from each image processing device to the power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing device by the first control means. Each output device 21 to 21 shown
28) (corresponding to the counter in the controller section) and display means (corresponding to the operation section of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) for displaying the count result counted by the counting means.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, the counting means is a first counting means (each output device 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) for counting the number of image processing devices to which the power saving mode has been changed from the response state. (Corresponding to a counter in the controller unit of each output device 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) and a second counting unit that counts the number of image processing devices that have not been switched to the power saving mode. The display means displays each count number counted by the first and second counting means.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is a second time measuring means (each of the output devices 21 to 21 shown in FIG. 1) for measuring the elapse of a predetermined time after the first control means issues the power saving mode shift command.
Corresponding to the timer in the controller unit of 28),
The control means is characterized in that after the second time measuring means measures a predetermined time, it shifts to a power saving mode after a predetermined image processing is completed.

A ninth invention according to the present invention has an acquisition means (corresponding to the controller unit of each of the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1) for acquiring the group information of the own device managed by the server device, The first control means refers to the group information acquired by the acquisition means, and compares the transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means with the current time measured by the first timing means. Then, a power saving mode shift command is issued to the image processing devices of the same group to shift to a power saving mode for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body.

A tenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention is provided with a storage means for storing power saving mode transition time information for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body, and another image processing is performed via a predetermined communication medium. A method of controlling an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with an apparatus, comprising: a first time measuring step (step S101 shown in FIG. 8) for measuring a current time; and a transition time according to power saving mode transition time information stored in a storage unit. The current time measured by the first time measuring means is compared with each other, and a power saving mode shift command is issued to another image processing apparatus to shift to a power saving mode for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. It has a first control step (step S110 shown in FIG. 8) to perform.

In a twelfth aspect of the present invention, when a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received, the power saving mode shift command is executed in accordance with the power saving mode shift command, or a power saving mode shift command is issued. It is characterized by having a second control step (step S204 shown in FIG. 9) for selecting either to ignore.

A thirteenth invention according to the present invention is a setting step for setting, based on a user selection instruction, whether to shift to a power saving mode according to a power saving mode shift command or to ignore the power save mode shift command (illustration). The second control step is to switch to the power saving mode according to the power saving mode transfer command when the power saving mode transfer command issued from any of the image processing devices is received based on the setting state of the setting step. It is characterized in that control is performed to select either the shift or the power saving mode shift is ignored.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, based on a power saving mode shift command received from any one of the image processing devices, a third power saving mode for shifting the power consumption to the image processing device body is saved. It is characterized by having a control step (step S202 shown in FIG. 9).

A fifteenth aspect of the present invention is a state determination step (FIG. 9) for determining whether or not predetermined image processing is being performed when a power saving mode transition command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received. Showing step S203),
The third control step is characterized in that, when the state determining step determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the power saving mode is set after the predetermined image processing is completed.

A sixteenth invention according to the present invention is a counting step (see FIG. 8) for counting the response state from each image processing device to the power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing device by the first control step. It is characterized by including the steps S107 and S108 shown) and a display step (not shown) for displaying the count result counted by the counting step on the display means.

In a seventeenth invention according to the present invention, the counting step includes a first counting step (step S107 shown in FIG. 8) for counting the number of image processing apparatuses to which the power saving mode has been changed from the response state, and the power saving. A second counting step (step S108 shown in FIG. 8) for counting the number of image processing apparatuses that have not been mode-shifted, and the display step is counted by each of the first and second counting steps. It is characterized by displaying the count number of.

The eighteenth invention according to the present invention has a second timing step (steps S103 and S109 shown in FIG. 8) for timing the elapse of a predetermined time after the power saving mode shift command is issued by the first control step. However, the third control step is characterized by shifting to the power saving mode after the predetermined image processing is completed after the second time measuring step measures the predetermined time.

The nineteenth invention according to the present invention has an acquisition step (step S303 shown in FIG. 19) for acquiring the group information of the own device managed by the server device, and the first control step (shown in FIG. 19). Step S305) refers to the group information acquired in the acquisition step and compares the transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means with the current time measured in the first time measurement step, It is characterized in that a power saving mode shift command is issued to the image processing devices of the same group to shift to a power saving mode for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body.

The twentieth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device.

A twenty-first aspect of the present invention is provided with a storage means for storing power saving mode transition time information for reducing the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body, and another image processing is performed via a predetermined communication medium. A method of controlling an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with an apparatus, comprising: a first time measuring step (step S101 shown in FIG. 8) for measuring a current time; and a transition time according to power saving mode transition time information stored in a storage unit. The current time measured by the first time measuring means is compared with each other, and a power saving mode shift command is issued to another image processing apparatus to shift to a power saving mode for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. It has a first control step (step S110 shown in FIG. 8) to perform.

In a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, when a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received, the power saving mode shift command is entered in accordance with the power saving mode shift command, or a power saving mode shift command is issued. It is characterized by having a second control step (step S204 shown in FIG. 9) for selecting either to ignore.

A twenty-third aspect of the present invention is based on a user selection instruction, and a setting step for setting either to switch to a power saving mode according to a power saving mode transfer command or to ignore the power saving mode transfer command (illustration). The second control step is to switch to the power saving mode according to the power saving mode transfer command when the power saving mode transfer command issued from any of the image processing devices is received based on the setting state of the setting step. It is characterized in that control is performed to select either the shift or the power saving mode shift command is ignored.

A twenty-fourth invention according to the present invention is the third invention for shifting to a power saving mode for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body based on a power saving mode shift command received from any of the image processing apparatuses. It is characterized by having a control step (step S202 shown in FIG. 9).

A twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is a state determining step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing is being performed when a power saving mode transition command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received (see FIG. 9). Showing step S203),
The third control step is characterized in that, when the state determining step determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the power saving mode is set after the predetermined image processing is completed.

The twenty-sixth aspect of the present invention is a counting step (see FIG. 8) for counting the response state from each image processing device to the power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing device by the first control step. It is characterized by including the steps S107 and S108 shown) and a display step (not shown) for displaying the count result counted by the counting step on the display means.

In a twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention, the counting step includes a first counting step (step S107 shown in FIG. 8) for counting the number of image processing apparatuses that have shifted from the response state to the power saving mode, and the power saving. A second counting step (step S108 shown in FIG. 8) for counting the number of image processing apparatuses that have not been mode-shifted, and the display step is counted by each of the first and second counting steps. It is characterized by displaying the count number of.

A twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention has a second timing step (steps S103 and S109 shown in FIG. 8) for timing the elapse of a predetermined time after the power saving mode shift command is issued by the first control step. However, the third control step is characterized by shifting to the power saving mode state after the predetermined image processing is completed after the second time counting step measures the predetermined time.

The twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention has an acquisition step (step S303 shown in FIG. 19) for acquiring the group information of the own device managed by the server device, and the first control step (shown in FIG. 19). Step S305) refers to the group information acquired in the acquisition step and compares the transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means with the current time measured in the first time measurement step, It is characterized in that a power saving mode shift command is issued to the image processing devices of the same group to shift to a power saving mode for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body.

The thirtieth invention of the present invention is characterized in that the image processing device includes a printer device, a digital copying device, and a composite image processing device.

[0047]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system to which an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

Reference numeral 11 denotes a network, which interconnects the output devices 21 to 28 and plays a role of an information transmission medium. Although not shown, computers, workstations, terminal devices, etc. are also connected, and network services such as information sharing and distributed processing are provided to users.

The output devices 21 to 28 receive image output requests from computers and workstations (not shown) as clients, and output the image data transferred via the network.

In the output devices 21 to 28, the output device itself has an image reading device, and the image data read by the output device itself can be output by the output device itself. It is possible to provide the function of the device to the user.

Further, each of the output devices 21 to 28 is configured to have a time measuring means such as a timer device in its internal control section. When the timer device is activated by the user's operation and the time measured by the timer device reaches the time preset by the user, the control unit of the printer device shuts off the power supply to each device other than the minimum required. It is configured to do. This makes it possible to significantly reduce power consumption.

In the conventional structure, the output devices 21-
The setting of 28 in each timer device was not efficient because the user had to go to and set the output device to be set.

However, in the image processing system according to this embodiment, the power saving mode transition time information of one of the output devices 21 to 28 operated by the user is the timer in the output device. When the measured time of the device matches, a power saving transition command is issued and transmitted to each of the output devices 21 to 28 via the network. The details of the configuration will be described below.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a format example of the power saving mode shift time information data managed by the server device according to the present invention. The format of the power saving mode shift time information data built in the output devices 21 to 28 is shown. Is an example. Here, 51 is a record in which power saving mode transition time information data is stored.

As shown in the figure, each record 51 records the date and time information when the printer shifts to the power saving mode. According to the present invention, in the output device operated by the user, the power saving is performed when the date and time information stored in the record 51 built in the output device and the clock also built in each output device match. Issue a migration command and output each of the output devices 21 to 2 via the network.
8 is transmitted.

FIG. 3 shows the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of a format of power saving mode transition time information data on a weekly basis incorporated in the computer. Here, 52 is a record in which weekly power saving mode transition time information data is stored.

As shown in the figure, the date and time when the printer shifts to the power saving mode is recorded in each record 52 on a weekly basis. As a result, in the output device operated by the user, when the date and time information stored in the record 51 included in the output device and the clock included in each output device match, the power saving transition command is issued. It is possible to issue and transmit to each output device 21-28 via the network.

Unlike the power saving mode shift time information data described with reference to FIG. 2, it is possible to set the shift time to the power saving mode on a weekly basis, which is more convenient for the user.

FIG. 4 and FIG. 5 are views for explaining the transition processing state to the power saving mode in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. Among the output devices 21 to 28 shown in FIG. 1, the user enters the power saving mode. One output device that has performed the time information update operation issues / transmits a power saving mode shift command to each output device 21-28, each output device 21-28 receives the power save mode shift command, and shifts to the power save mode. It shows an outline of the mechanism for doing.

FIG. 4 shows a state in which a power saving mode shift command is transmitted from the first output device 22 to which the power saving mode shift time information updating operation has been performed by the user to each of the second output devices 21, 23 to 28. Correspondingly, FIG. 5 shows the first output device 2
2 receives the power saving mode shift command from the control unit 2 and is connected to the network 11 and has the respective second output devices 21 and 23 to 28 built therein. Corresponding to where you are responding.

Although the output devices 26 to 28 are omitted here, the operation of each of the output devices 26 to 28 is the same as that of the output devices 21 and 23 to 25 described below.

First, in FIG. 4, when the set power-saving mode transition time and the built-in timer measuring device match, the first output device 22 for which the power-saving mode transition time information updating operation has been performed by the user 2 output devices 21, 2
Processing for transmitting a power saving mode transition command to 3 to 28 is performed. In the figure, it is indicated by an arrow 61. The power saving mode transition time information updating operation by the user will be described in detail with reference to FIG. 6 and subsequent figures.

Next, when each of the second output devices 21, 23 to 28 connected to the network 11 receives the power saving mode shift command from the first output device 22, the power saving mode is set by the control unit in each output device. Perform the process of shifting to the mode. Details of the power saving mode transition processing performed by each of the second output devices 21 and 23 to 28 will be described based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 9.

Next, each second output device 21, 23-28
After preparing for shifting to the power saving mode, sends a response to the first output device 22 to notify that the power saving mode shifting process is completed. In FIG. 5, it is indicated by an arrow 62.
After sending the response, it shifts to the power saving mode.

Further, since the output device 24 is in the process of outputting an image, the transition to the power saving mode is not performed,
Therefore, the response process to the output device 22 is not performed.

Furthermore, since the output device 25 has already transitioned to the power saving mode before receiving the power saving mode transition command, the response transmission control for the output device 22 response to the power saving mode transition command is not performed. .

With such a configuration, the first output device 22
In accordance with the power saving mode shift time information updated by the user's operation, the power saving mode can be shifted to each of the second output devices 21, 23 to 28 connected to the network 11 according to the power saving mode shift command. You can see that

FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of the operating portion of the output device shown in FIG.

In FIG. 6, the operation unit 70 is a device which serves as an interface when the user performs copy processing, image reading processing, image output processing, various setting processing and the like on the output device.

Reference numeral 71 denotes a display unit, which plays a role of transmitting various information such as the setting status and operation status of the output device to the user. Further, the display unit 71 has a built-in pressure detection device, and the user can switch the display content and various settings by pressing various metaphors displayed on the display unit 71.

Reference numeral 72 denotes a user setting key, which is pressed to make more detailed settings on the output device. It is used when an operation screen for issuing an update request to another printer for the power saving mode shift command, which is a feature of the present invention, is output to the display unit 71.

Reference numeral 73 is a ten-key pad, which is operated by the user.
It is used when the output device is set to require input of numerical information.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen of the power saving mode timer displayed on the display unit 71 shown in FIG. 6, and is displayed on another output device connected to the network 11 shown in FIG. On the other hand, it corresponds to an example of the operation screen for setting the power saving mode shift time information for issuing the power saving mode shift request.

In FIG. 7, reference numeral 81 is a display box for displaying and changing the power saving mode shift time information data. This display box 81 displays the year, month, day,
It is divided into hours, minutes, and seconds.
Input operation by.

Reference numerals 82 and 83 are selection buttons, and when the user sets the power saving mode shift time information to the output device, the power saving mode shift command is issued to the other output devices connected to the network according to the power saving mode shift time information. Is a button for selecting whether or not to issue. When an operation for selecting and selecting the selection button 82 is performed on the operation unit 70 of the output device, a power saving mode shift command is transmitted to another output device according to the power saving mode shift time information.

When the selection button 83 is selected, the output device itself only shifts to the power saving mode if the power saving mode shift time matches the timer measuring device.

Reference numeral 84 is a close operation button for closing the operation screen for issuing a request for updating the power saving mode transition time information to another printer.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of the first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. For example, another output is performed according to the power saving mode transition time information set from the operation unit of the output device 22. It corresponds to the control procedure related to the processing of issuing a power saving mode transition command to the device. Note that S101 to S110 indicate each step. Further, in FIG. 8, CNT1 represents a variable for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has been updated, and CNT2 counts the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has not been updated. Represents a variable for.

Further, this processing is started at the timing when the update request for the power saving mode transition time information is set to the other output devices 21, 23 to 28 by the user's operation.
That is, it is the timing when the selection button 82 is selected and executed.

After the start of this processing, in step S101, the output device 2 for which the power saving mode transition time information has been set.
It is determined whether or not the measurement time of the timer measuring device built in 2 and the power saving mode transition time information set by the user's operation on the output device 22 match (command issuing time). That is, a loop is formed in which the process waits until the power saving mode transition time information is reached. here,
If it is determined that the time measured by the timer measuring device matches the power saving mode transition time information, the process proceeds to step S10.
Proceed to 2.

In step S102, a variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices that have shifted to the power saving mode and a variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices that have not shifted to the power saving mode are initialized. After the initialization process, the process proceeds to step S103.

Then, in step 103, the second timer device for measuring the time from the transmission of the power saving mode transition command to each output device until the response comes back, that is, the response standby time is started. After performing the process and starting the second timer device, the process proceeds to step S104.

Then, in step S104, after the process of transmitting the power saving mode transition command to all the output devices connected to the network 11 is completed, the process is performed in step S10.
Go to 5.

Then, in step S105, it is determined whether or not there is a response from each of the output devices 21, 23 to 28 that has transmitted the power saving mode shift command, and a loop is formed until a response comes. That is, it plays a role of waiting for a response from each output device.

If it is determined that there is a response from the output device, the process proceeds to step S106.

Then, in step S106, it is determined from the received data that the output device 22 responded, whether or not the received output device has transitioned to the power saving mode, and the process branches.

Here, if it is determined that the received output device has transitioned to the power saving mode, the process proceeds to step S107, and if it is determined that the received output device has not transitioned to the power saving mode. In, the process proceeds to step S108.

Then, in step S107, since the output device that has responded has shifted to the power saving mode,
A process of adding "1" to a variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices that have shifted to the power saving mode is performed, and after the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S109.

On the other hand, in step S108, since the output device that has not responded has not shifted to the power saving mode, "1" is added to the variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices that have not shifted to the power saving mode. It is carried out. After the processing is completed, the process proceeds to step 109.

Then, in step 109, a process of determining whether or not the measurement time of the second timer device for measuring the response waiting time has reached the response waiting time is performed. If it is determined that the time is within the response time, the process returns to step S105 and waits for a response from another output device.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S109 that the measurement time of the second timer device has reached the response time, it is determined that a time-out has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S11.
Advance to 0.

In step S110, the output device 22 itself that has issued the power saving mode transition command performs a transition process to the power saving mode, and after the transition to the power saving mode, the process returns to step S101, and the next power saving mode transition time is set. The process is kept waiting until it matches.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. For example, the power saving mode is set from the output device 22 in which the power saving mode transition time information is set via the network 11. When the shift command is received, the control device of each output device corresponds to the procedure for determining whether or not to immediately shift to the power saving mode. Note that S201 to S207 indicate each step.

This process is started after receiving the power saving mode shift command from the output device 22 in which the power saving mode shift time information is set via the network 11. When the process is started, the power saving mode is started in step S201. A process for checking the data received from the output device 22 in which the mode transition time information is set is called, and after the data check, the process proceeds to step S202.

Then, in step S202, in the check of the data received from the output device 22 in which the power saving mode shift time information is set in step S201, the data sent from the output device 22 is the power save mode shift command. It is determined whether or not the process is branched. If it is determined that the command is not the power saving mode transition command, the present process is terminated. If it is determined that the command is the power saving mode transition command, the process proceeds to step S203.

Then, in step S203, a process for determining whether or not any image output process is currently being performed in the output device under the present control is performed, and if any image output process is performed in the output device. If it is determined that the output process is being performed, a loop is formed to wait this process until the output process is completed.

On the other hand, in step S203, if the output is not being performed or the output process is completed, the present process is step S204.
Go to.

Then, in step S204, the power saving mode setting of the output device is read, and the processing flow is branched accordingly. That is, the user determines whether or not to ignore the power saving mode shift command from the output device 22 based on the setting made to the output device, and if it is determined that the power save mode shift command is not ignored, The process proceeds to step S205, and if it is determined that the setting to ignore the power saving mode transition command is performed, the process proceeds to step S2.
Proceed to 06.

Then, in step S205, since the setting made by the user to the output device in step S204 is such that the power saving mode shift command from the output device 22 is not ignored, the power saving mode shift control is called. After shifting to the power saving mode, the process proceeds to step S207.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step S204 that the setting made by the user to the output device is set to ignore the power saving mode shift command from the output device 22, the output device 22 is set in step S206. A process of transmitting a response indicating that the power saving mode transition command has been ignored is performed, and after the transmission is completed, this process ends.

Then, in step S207, since the output device itself has transitioned to the power saving mode by the processing performed in step S205, a response indicating that the transition to the power saving mode has been completed is transmitted to the output device 22. After the transmission is completed, this processing is terminated.

According to the above embodiment, the output device whose power saving mode transition time information updated by the user's operation is updated sends a power saving mode transition command to each of the other output devices according to the power saving mode transition time information. It is possible to perform control by transmitting via the network and automatically shifting each output device to the power saving mode.

When the power saving mode shift time information is set by the user's operation from an output device connected to the network, the measured time of the timer device in the output device matches the power saving mode shift time information. In this case, it becomes possible to issue the power saving mode transition command to all the output devices connected to the network.

Accordingly, if the power saving mode shift time information is set for one output device on the network, each output device connected to the network automatically shifts to the power saving mode according to the information. Is possible.

Therefore, it is not necessary for the user to visit each output device connected to the network to set the power saving mode transition time information, and the convenience of the user can be expected to improve.

Further, when a command for instructing a certain printer to shift to the power saving mode is received from another printer, it is possible to select either to shift to the power saving mode according to the command or to ignore the power saving mode shift. Alternatively, when a command is sent from another printer to a certain printer to switch to the power saving mode, the user can select whether to switch to the power saving mode or ignore the power saving mode transition according to the command. Therefore, it becomes possible for the user to set the output device, which expects to improve the efficiency of the image output process by reducing the power consumption, to ignore the power saving mode transition command from another printer. Expected to improve convenience.

If an image output process is in progress when a command for instructing a certain printer to shift to the power saving mode is received from another printer, control is performed to shift to the power saving mode after the output process is completed. For output devices that are in the process of being output. Even when a power saving mode shift command is received from another printer, it is possible to prioritize the image output processing and shift to the power save mode after the output is completed, and it is possible to achieve both image forming efficiency and power consumption reduction. Becomes

Further, the output device (for example, printer) has a display device which can be operated interactively by the user, and the broadcast communication for requesting the power saving mode shift command from the printer control device to each printer on the network. When I went to
In response to the response from each printer, the printer counts the number of printers to which the power saving mode has been shifted, counts the number of printers to which the power saving mode has not been shifted, and displays the count result on the display device. Therefore, whether or not the update processing of all output devices has been completed normally for the user who has performed the setting request operation of the power saving mode transition time information from one output device to all output devices connected to the network It is possible to check the number of output devices that have been processed and the number of output devices that have not been updated on the display unit on the output device that the user has set, which improves user convenience. Has been planned.

Further, the printer that has issued the command for instructing the transition to the power saving mode drives the second timer device after issuing the command, and measures the measurement time of the second timer device and the second power saving mode transition time. If they match, the printer itself controls the transition to the power saving mode.Therefore, even if another output device transitions to the power saving mode, the output device that has issued the power saving mode transition command will remain in standby for a while. It is possible to hold the state in the mode. It is also possible to perform processing such as grasping the power saving mode transition status of another output device, and responding to a print output request after the power saving mode transition of the entire print processing system.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the count result display screen displayed on the display unit 71 shown in FIG. 6, which is displayed on the display unit 71 shown in FIG.
7 is an example of a screen displaying the results counted in step S108.

In FIG. 10, 111 is a window for displaying the number of units that have received the response that the power saving mode has been entered, and 113 is a window for displaying the number of units that have received the response that the mode has not been entered into the power saving mode. 1
Reference numeral 15 is a window for displaying the number of vehicles that have not yet received a response.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 11 shows a second embodiment of the present invention.
It is a figure which shows the schematic structure of the network system to which the image processing apparatus which shows embodiment is applicable, and the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same thing as FIG.

Reference numeral 11 denotes a network, which connects the server 12, the output devices 21 to 28, the computer and the workstations 31 to 34, and plays a role of an information transmission medium.

The server 12 has a built-in printer group management server function, which is a feature of this embodiment, as a system, and provides a server service in the network together with other functions.

Computers and workstations 31 to 34 are devices corresponding to client devices in the network 11. Various service requests are sent from the computer and workstations 31-34 to the server 12 and output devices 21-28. The output devices 21 to 28 are output devices connected to the network. The output devices 21 to 28 receive image output requests from the computers that are clients and the workstations 31 to 34, and output the image data transferred via the network 11.

Further, in the output devices 21 to 28, the output device itself has an image reading device, and the image data read by the output device itself can be output by the own output device. Has become.

Each of the output devices 21 to 28 has a time measuring means such as a timer device in its internal control section. When the timer device is activated by the user's operation and the time measured by the timer device reaches the time preset by the user, the control unit of the printer device shuts off the power supply to each device other than the minimum required. It is configured to do. As a result, it is possible to significantly reduce power consumption.

However, the setting of the output devices 21 to 28 to each timer device must be carried out by the user to the respective output devices, which may not be efficient.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a format example of the printer group information stored in the server 12 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 12, 11-51, 11-53
Is a printer group ID, and 11-52 are printers that belong to the printer group “001”. 11-54
Are printers that belong to the printer group “002”.

A unique printer ID is assigned to each of the output devices 21 to 28. Further, each printer belongs to a printer group, and the printer IDs are classified and recorded for each printer group ID to which the printer belongs, as shown in the figure.

The information on the printer group ID, the printer ID, and the power saving mode transition time for each printer group is recorded and managed by the server 12.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing the internal structure of the server 12 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 13, reference numeral 101 denotes a server control section, which is a section in which the server 12 executes various services provided via the network 11. Also,
A process of transmitting power saving mode transition time information to the output device, which is a feature of this embodiment, is also performed.

Reference numeral 102 denotes a printer information database, which records printer information belonging to the network. Reference numeral 103 denotes a printer group information database, which records printer grouping information obtained by grouping the output devices 21 to 28 as shown in FIG. 10
A power saving mode information database 4 records power saving mode information for each group.

The databases 102 to 104 are managed by the respective database managers 105 to 107, and work such as registration, deletion, merging, sorting, etc. of information in the databases 102 to 104 is performed at the request of the server controller 101. ing.

When an inquiry request for a printer ID belonging to a printer group is issued from the output device or the like, the server control unit 101 obtains the printer IDs of the output devices 21 to 28 belonging to the corresponding printer group from the database of the printer information database 102. A process of searching the management unit 105 is performed, and a process of transmitting the search result as a response is performed.

FIGS. 14 to 16 are diagrams for explaining the transition processing state to the power saving mode in the image processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to the present invention. In the output apparatus 21 belonging to a certain printer group, the output apparatus 21 is set. When the power saving mode transition command information time and the measurement time of the built-in timer measuring device match, the power saving mode transition command is transmitted to the output device belonging to the same printer group as the output device 21, and the printer group It corresponds to the outline of the mechanism by which the output device automatically reflects the command.

In FIG. 14, the output device 21 is connected to the server 12 connected to the same network 11, and
15 shows that the address information acquisition request of all the output devices of the printer group 1 to which the printer 1 belongs is transmitted.
Indicates that all the printer information of the printer group “001” is received from the server 12.

In FIG. 16, the output device 21 is the server 1
2 shows that a power saving mode shift command is transmitted to an output device that belongs to the same printer group as the output device 21 received from FIG. The output devices 23 and 24 belonging to the same printer group as the output device 21 perform control and response to the power saving mode transition command.

First, in FIG. 14, when the power saving mode transition time information data set by the user and the measurement time of the timer measuring device built in the output device 21 match, the output device 21 outputs the output device to the server 12. 21 has transmitted address information acquisition requests for all output devices of the printer group “001” to which 21 belongs. In FIG. 14, arrow 13
It is shown at -61.

Specifically, all output devices are assigned independent / unique network addresses to all the output devices so that they can be distinguished on the network 11. For the server 12, the output device 21
Server 12 as the same printer group as output device 21
Requesting acquisition of network address information of all output devices belonging to the printer group “001” managed above.

The operation of transmitting the address information acquisition request of all the output devices is performed at the timing when the selection button 83 displayed on the display unit 71 on the output device is pressed by the user's operation (FIG. 18, FIG. See FIG. 19).

Next, in FIG. 15, the server 12, which has received the address information acquisition request from the output device 21 for all the output devices belonging to the same printer group, selects the printer group to which the output device 21 of the request source belongs. Printer group information database 103 built in
Search from.

Printer group information database 103
Printer information database 10 based on the search results of
For 2, the process of searching the network address information of the output device belonging to the corresponding printer group is performed.

After the search of the network address information of all the output devices belonging to the printer group is completed, the server 12 collectively sends the network address information of all the output devices belonging to the printer group to the output device 21 of the request source. To do. The output device 21 is the printer group “0
In this example, the output device 2
The network address information of 3 and 24 is transmitted. Figure 1
5 is indicated by arrow 13-62.

Next, since the power saving mode transition time information data set by the user and the measurement time of the timer measuring device built in the output device 21 match, the output device 21 obtained from the server 12 belongs to the same printer group. The process of transmitting the power saving mode transition command to the output device that is operating is performed. Arrow 13-63 in FIG. 16 corresponds to this. The power saving mode transition command issuance control will be described in detail with reference to FIG.

Next, when the output devices 23 and 24 that belong to the same printer group as the output device 21 connected to the network 11 receive the power saving mode shift command from the output device 21, the settings in each output device are set.・ Determine whether to switch to the power saving mode according to the output status. Details of the processing performed by the output devices 23 and 24 when the power saving mode transition command is received will be described with reference to FIG.

Next, the output devices 23 and 24 transmit a response to the output device 21 after the power saving mode shift command reception process. In the present embodiment, the output device 23 receives the power saving mode shift command, performs control to shift from the standby mode to the power saving mode, and returns a response indicating that the power saving mode has been shifted. 17 corresponds to that, but FIG.
Then, the flow of the response is shown by arrows 13-64.

Further, since the output device 24 is in the state of shifting to the power saving mode before receiving the power saving mode shift command, the response process to the output device 21 is not performed.

Next, the output device 21 which has issued the power saving mode shift command is controlled to shift to the power saving mode after the response waiting time has elapsed.

With such a configuration, when the power saving mode transition time information set by the user's operation on the output device 21 and the timer measurement time built in the output device 21 match, the same printer group as the output device 21. By issuing a power saving mode shift command to the output devices 23 and 24 that belong to, it is possible to automatically perform control to shift to the power save mode.

Further, by the user setting the power saving mode transition time information for the output devices 22 to 28,
It is possible to perform the same control as this example.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the setting screen of the power saving mode timer displayed on the display unit 71 shown in FIG. 6, in which the power saving mode transition command issuance time information is output to the output device on the operating side. This corresponds to an example of the operation screen for setting.

In FIG. 18, reference numeral 17-81 is a display box for displaying the printer group to which the output device itself performing this operation belongs. Here, the server 12 is inquired about the displayed printer group information,
When the inquiry result is received, display box 17-
The display is made to 81. On the server 12 side, in response to a printer group inquiry request from the output device, an inquiry is made to the printer group information database 103, and the result is returned to the inquiry source output device as a response.

Reference numeral 17-82 is a display box for displaying and changing the power saving mode transition command issuance time information data. This display box 17-81
Is divided into year, month, day, hour, minute, and second, and the user inputs the power saving mode transition command issuance time information data using the ten keys 73.

Reference numerals 17-83 are selection buttons for issuing a power saving mode shift command to the same printer group, which is a feature of the present invention. When the selection button 17-83 is selected, if the power saving mode transition time information set by the user operation matches the timer measurement time inside the output device, the output of the same printer group as the output device is performed. A power saving mode transition command is issued to the device.

Reference numeral 17-84 is a selection button when the power saving mode shift command is not issued to the same printer group. When the selection button 17-84 is selected, when the power saving mode transition time information set by the user's operation matches the timer measurement time inside the output device, only the output device has the same configuration as the conventional image forming apparatus. Performs processing to shift to the power saving mode.

Reference numerals 17-85 are operation buttons for closing the operation screen for setting the power saving mode shift time information for the output device.

FIG. 19 is a flow chart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. In the operation screen shown in FIG. 18, the same printer is operated in accordance with the set power saving mode transition time information. It corresponds to the control procedure relating to the processing of issuing the power saving mode transition command to the other output devices belonging to the group. Note that S301-
S311 shows each step.

In FIG. 19, CNT1 represents a variable for counting the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has been updated, and CNT2 represents the number of output devices whose power saving mode transition time information has not been updated. Represents a variable for counting.

This process is started at the timing when the update request for the power saving mode transition time information is set to another output device belonging to the same printer group by the user's operation. That is, it is the timing when the selection button 17-83 is selected and executed. After this process starts, step S301
In the above, whether the measured time of the timer measuring device built in the output device 21 in which the power saving mode transition time information is set and the power saving mode transition time information set by the user operation on the output device 21 match? It is judged whether or not. That is, a loop is formed in which the process waits until the power saving mode transition time information is reached. Here, if the measured time of the timer measuring device matches the power saving mode transition time information, the process proceeds to step S302.

Then, in step S302, a process of initializing a variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices that have shifted to the power saving mode and a variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices that have not shifted to the power saving mode are performed. There is. After the initialization process, the process proceeds to step S303.

In step S303, the server 12 is requested to acquire network addresses of all output devices registered in the printer group to which the output device itself belongs. In response to this, the server 12 searches the printer information database 102 and the printer group information database 103 in the server 12 for the network addresses of all the output devices registered in the printer group, and returns the search result to the requesting output device. Processing is performed. The control unit of the output device is the server 12
After acquiring the network addresses of all the output devices registered in the printer group from step S304, the process is performed in step S304.
Proceed to.

Then, in step S304, the time from transmitting the power saving mode shift command to the output device belonging to the printer group until waiting for a response, that is, the second time for measuring the response waiting time. A process of starting the timer device is performed, and after the second timer device is started, the process proceeds to step S305.

Then, in step S305, based on the network address information of all the output devices registered in the printer group to which the output device itself belongs acquired in step S303, the same printer group connected to the network 11 is selected. A process of transmitting a power saving mode transition command is performed to the output device to which the output device belongs, and after the transmission is completed, the process proceeds to step S306.

Then, in step S306, it is determined whether or not there is a response from the output device that belongs to the same printer group that has transmitted the power saving mode transition command, and a loop is formed until a response comes. That is, it plays a role of waiting for a response from each output device. Here, if there is a response from the output device, the process proceeds to step S307.

Then, in step S307, the output device determines from the received data whether or not the received output device has shifted to the power saving mode, and branches the process accordingly. Here, if it is determined that the received output device has transitioned to the power saving mode, the process proceeds to step S309, and if it is determined that the received output device has not transitioned to the power saving mode, The process proceeds to step S308.

Then, in step S309, since the output device that has responded is shifted to the power saving mode,
A process of adding "1" to a variable CNT1 for counting the number of output devices belonging to the same printer group that has moved to the power saving mode is performed, and after the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S310.

On the other hand, in step S308, since the output device that responded has not been shifted to the power saving mode,
Variable CNT2 for counting the number of output devices that belong to the same printer group and have not transitioned to the power saving mode
Then, a process of adding “1” to is performed, and after the process is completed, the process proceeds to step S310.

Then, in step S310, a process of determining whether or not the measurement time of the second timer device for measuring the response waiting time has reached the response waiting time is performed. Here, if the second timer If it is determined that the device measurement time is within the response time, the process returns to step S306 to wait for a response from another output device belonging to the same printer group.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S310 that the time measured by the second timer device has reached the response time, it is determined that a time-out has occurred, and the process proceeds to step S31.
Proceed to 1.

Then, in step S311, the output device itself which has issued the power saving mode transition command to the output devices belonging to the same printer group is transferred to the power saving mode, and after the power saving mode is transitioned, the process is executed in step S301. Then, the process waits until the next power saving mode transition time matches.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, in which the output devices belonging to the same printer group to which the power saving mode transition time information is set are transmitted via the network 11. When the power saving mode shift command is received, the control unit of the output device corresponds to a procedure for determining whether or not to immediately shift to the power saving mode. Note that S401 to S407 indicate each step.

This process is started after receiving the power saving mode shift command from the output device belonging to the same printer group to which the power saving mode shift time information is set via the network 11. In step S401, the power saving mode shift time information is started. Is called, a process for checking data received from another output device belonging to the same printer group in which is set is called, and after the data check, the process is step S4
Go to 02.

Then, in step S402, in checking the data received from the output device belonging to the same printer group for which the power saving mode shift time information in step S401 is set, the data is sent from another output device belonging to the same printer group. It is determined whether the received data is a power saving mode transition instruction, and the processing is branched accordingly. Here, if it is determined that the command is not the power saving mode transition command, this process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S402 that the command is a power saving mode shift command, the process proceeds to step S40.
3, the process for determining whether or not the image output process is being performed in the output device in which this control is being performed,
If the output device determines that the image output process is being performed, a loop is formed to wait this process until the output process is completed.

On the other hand, in step S403, if the output is not being performed or the output process is completed, the present process is step S404.
Go to.

Then, in step S404, the power saving mode setting of the output device is read, and the processing flow is branched accordingly. That is, it is determined whether or not to ignore the power saving mode shift command from another output device belonging to the same printer group based on the setting made by the user to the output device, and if the power save mode shift command is not ignored. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S405, and if it is determined that the power saving mode transition command is ignored, the process proceeds to step S406.

Then, in step S405, the setting made by the user to the output device in step S404 is such that a power saving mode transition command from another output device belonging to the same printer group is not ignored. Calling the transition control. After shifting to the power saving mode, the process proceeds to step S407.

On the other hand, in step S406, the setting made by the user to the output device in step S404 is set to ignore the power saving mode transition command from another output device belonging to the same printer group. A process of transmitting a response indicating that the power saving mode transition command has been ignored is performed to the output device that issued the transition command, and after the transmission is completed, this process ends.

In step S407, since the output device itself has transitioned to the power saving mode by the processing performed in step S405, the transition to the power saving mode has been completed for the output device that issued the power saving mode transition command. A process of transmitting a response indicating that the process is transmitted, and after the transmission is completed, this process is completed.

According to the above embodiment, the output device whose power saving mode transition time information updated by the user's operation is updated to each output device belonging to the same printer group according to the power saving mode transition time information. On the other hand, the power saving mode shift command is transmitted via the network so that each output device can be automatically shifted to the power saving mode.

The configuration of the data processing program that can be read by the printing system to which the image processing apparatus according to the present invention is applicable will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which the image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

Although not particularly shown, information for managing the program group stored in the storage medium, such as version information, creator information, etc., and information dependent on the OS and the like on the program reading side, such as the program, are stored. In some cases, an icon or the like for identification and display is also stored.

Further, data subordinate to various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in a computer, or a program for decompressing the program to be installed when it is compressed may be stored.

FIG. 8, FIG. 9, FIG. 19, and FIG.
The functions shown in FIG. 20 may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. In that case, the present invention is applied even when the information group including the program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. It is a thing.

As described above, the storage medium recording the program code of the software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP of the system or apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by U) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
A D-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a non-volatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM or the like can be used.

Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the OS (operating system) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that this also includes the case where the above) performs a part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in the memory provided in the function expansion board inserted into the computer or the function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, The CPU or the like provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs a part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that the processing includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

[0185]

As described above, the first aspect of the present invention
According to the thirtieth invention, the image processing apparatus is compared with other image processing apparatuses by comparing the current time with the stored power saving mode transition time information for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. Since each power saving mode transition command for transitioning to the power saving mode for reducing the power consumption supplied to the main body is issued, a plurality of image processings existing on the network according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the unique image processing device. A power saving mode transition command for each device is issued in a broadcast manner to shift each image processing device to a power saving mode, and the power saving environment of each image processing device is collectively adjusted to freely construct an image processing environment with high power saving effect. be able to.

Further, by acquiring the group information of the own apparatus from the server apparatus and comparing the current time with the power saving mode transition time information for saving the power consumption stored in the main body of the image processing apparatus, the same group is stored. The power saving mode transition time information stored in a unique image processing device is issued to each of the other image processing devices, because the power saving mode transition command for transitioning to the power saving mode for reducing the power consumption supplied to the image processing device main body is issued. In accordance with the above, a power saving mode transition command for the image processing apparatuses of the same group existing on the network is broadcast to switch the image processing apparatuses in the same group to the power saving mode, and the power saving of each image processing apparatus in the same group is performed. This has an effect that the environment can be collectively matched and an image processing environment with a high power saving effect can be freely constructed.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system to which an image processing apparatus showing a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a format example of power saving mode transition time information data managed by the server device according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of a format of weekly power saving mode transition time information data built in the output device shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a plan view showing an example of an operation unit of the output device shown in FIG.

7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a setting screen of a power saving mode timer displayed on the display unit illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

10 is a diagram showing an example of a count result display screen displayed on the display unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration of a network system to which an image processing apparatus showing a second embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

12 is a diagram showing a format example of printer group information stored in the server shown in FIG.

13 is a diagram showing an internal configuration of the server shown in FIG.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a transition processing state to a power saving mode in the image processing apparatus and the server apparatus according to the present invention.

18 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen of a power saving mode timer displayed on the display unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by a printing system to which the image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

[Explanation of symbols]

11 network 21-28 Output device 31-34 Client device 101 server control unit 102 printer information database 105-107 Database Management Department 104 Power saving mode information database

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁷ Identification code FI theme code (reference) B41J 29/38 B41J 29/38 Z 29/42 29/42 F G06F 1/26 G06F 3/12 K 1 / 32 1/00 332Z 3/12 334R F term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 HK19 HQ17 HR07 HT03 HT04 2H027 DA32 DA38 DA50 EF16 EJ08 EJ15 FA30 FA37 GB11 5B011 DA01 EB08 FF04 LL14 5B021 AA01 AA05 A05

Claims (30)

[Claims] 1. An image processing apparatus capable of communicating with another image processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the image processing apparatus stores power saving mode transition time information for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. Means for comparing the current time measured by the first time measuring means with a transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means, A first control unit that issues a power-saving mode shift command to shift to a power-saving mode that saves power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body to the other image processing apparatus. Processing equipment. 2. When a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices is received, either the power save mode shifts according to the power save mode shift command or the power save mode shift command is ignored. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second control unit that selects the. 3. A setting means for setting, based on a user selection instruction, whether to shift to a power saving mode in accordance with the power saving mode shift command or to ignore the power save mode shift command, the second When the control means receives a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices based on the setting state by the setting means, the control means shifts to the power save mode according to the power save mode shift command, or shifts to the power save mode. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control is performed to select whether to ignore the instruction. 4. A third control unit that shifts to a power saving mode for saving power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body based on a power saving mode shift command received from any one of the image processing apparatuses. The image processing device according to claim 1. 5. When a power saving mode transition command issued from any one of the image processing apparatuses is received, the image processing apparatus further includes a state determination unit that determines whether or not predetermined image processing is in progress, and the third control unit includes: The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein when the state determining unit determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the state is changed to a power saving mode state after the predetermined image processing is completed. 6. A counting unit that counts a response state from each image processing apparatus to a power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing apparatus by the first control unit, and a counting result counted by the counting unit. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit that displays. 7. The counting means counts the number of image processing apparatuses that have made a power saving mode transition from the response state, and the number of image processing apparatuses that have not made a power saving mode transition. 7. The image processing apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising a second counting unit, wherein the display unit displays each count number counted by the first and second counting units. 8. A second time measuring means for measuring a lapse of a predetermined time after the first control means issues a power saving mode transition command, wherein the third control means has the second time measuring means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein after the predetermined time is counted, the power saving mode is entered after the predetermined image processing is completed. 9. An acquisition unit for acquiring group information of its own device managed by a server device, wherein the first control unit refers to the group information acquired by the acquisition unit and stores the storage information. The transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the means is compared with the current time measured by the first time measuring means, and the image processing apparatuses of the same group are supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a power saving mode shift command for shifting to a power saving mode for reducing power consumption is issued. 10. The image processing device is a printer device,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, comprising a digital copying apparatus and a composite image processing apparatus. 11. An image processing apparatus comprising a storage unit for storing power saving mode transition time information for reducing power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body and capable of communicating with another image processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A first clocking step for clocking the current time, a transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means, and a current time clocked by the first clock means. In comparison, a first control step of issuing a power saving mode shift command to shift to the power saving mode for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body to the other image processing apparatus, respectively. A control method for a characteristic image processing apparatus. 12. When a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing apparatuses is received, either the power save mode shifts according to the power save mode shift command or the power save mode shift command is ignored. Second to choose
The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: 13. A setting step for setting, based on a user selection instruction, whether to shift to a power saving mode according to the power saving mode shift command or to ignore the power save mode shift command, the second The control step shifts to the power saving mode or shifts to the power saving mode according to the power saving mode shift command when a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices is received based on the setting state of the setting step. The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein control is performed to select whether to ignore the instruction. 14. A third mode for shifting to a power saving mode for reducing power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body based on a power saving mode shift command received from any of the image processing apparatuses.
The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: 15. A state determination step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing is being performed when a power saving mode transition command issued from any one of the image processing apparatuses is received, and the third control step comprises: 15. The method of controlling an image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein when the state determining step determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the power saving mode is entered after the predetermined image processing is completed. 16. A counting step of counting a response state from each image processing apparatus to a power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing apparatus by the first control step, and a counting result counted by the counting step. 12. The control method for the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising: a display step of displaying on the display means. 17. The counting step includes a first counting step of counting the number of image processing apparatuses that have made a power saving mode transition from the response state, and a number of image processing apparatuses that have not made a power saving mode transition. 17. The control of the image processing apparatus according to claim 16, further comprising a second counting step, wherein the displaying step displays respective count numbers counted by the first and second counting steps. Method. 18. A second timing step for timing a lapse of a predetermined time after the power saving mode shift command is issued by the first control step, the third control step comprising: 15. The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 14, wherein after the predetermined time is counted, the power saving mode is entered after the predetermined image processing is completed. 19. An acquisition step of acquiring the group information of the own device managed by the server device, wherein the first control step refers to the group information acquired by the acquisition step, and stores the storage information. The transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the means is compared with the current time measured by the first timing step, and the image processing apparatuses of the same group are supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. The control method of the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein a power saving mode shift command for shifting to a power saving mode for saving power consumption is issued. 20. The image processing device is a printer device,
20. The image processing apparatus control method according to claim 11, further comprising a digital copying apparatus and a composite image processing apparatus. 21. An image processing apparatus, comprising storage means for storing power saving mode transition time information for reducing power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body, and capable of communicating with another image processing apparatus via a predetermined communication medium. A first clocking step for clocking the current time, a transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the storage means, and a current time clocked by the first clock means. In comparison, a first control step of issuing a power saving mode shift command to shift to the power saving mode for saving the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body to the other image processing apparatus, respectively. Characteristic storage medium. 22. When a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices is received, either shift to the power save mode according to the power save mode shift command or ignore the power save mode shift command. Second to choose
22. The storage medium according to claim 21, further comprising: 23. Based on a user selection instruction, a setting step of setting whether to shift to a power saving mode according to the power saving mode shift command or to ignore the power save mode shift command, the second The control step shifts to the power saving mode or shifts to the power saving mode according to the power saving mode shift command when a power saving mode shift command issued from any of the image processing devices is received based on the setting state of the setting step. 22. The storage medium according to claim 21, wherein control is performed to select whether to ignore the instruction. 24. A third mode of shifting to a power saving mode for reducing the power consumption supplied to the image processing apparatus main body based on a power saving mode shift command received from any of the image processing apparatuses.
22. The storage medium according to claim 21, further comprising: 25. A state determination step of determining whether or not predetermined image processing is being performed when a power saving mode transition command issued from any one of the image processing apparatuses is received, the third control step comprising: 25. The storage medium according to claim 24, wherein when the state determining step determines that the predetermined image processing is being performed, the power saving mode state is entered after the predetermined image processing is completed. 26. A counting step of counting a response state from each image processing apparatus to a power saving mode transition command issued to each image processing apparatus by the first control step, and a counting result counted by the counting step. 22. The storage medium according to claim 21, further comprising: a display step of displaying on the display means. 27. The counting step counts the first counting step of counting the number of image processing apparatuses to which the power saving mode has been shifted from the response state, and the number of image processing apparatuses not having the power saving mode to shift. 27. The storage medium according to claim 26, further comprising a second counting step, wherein the displaying step displays the respective count numbers counted by the first and second counting steps. 28. A second timing step of timing a lapse of a predetermined time period after the power saving mode transition command is issued by the first control step, the third control step including the second timing step. 25. The storage medium according to claim 24, wherein after the predetermined time is counted, the power saving mode is entered after the predetermined image processing is completed. 29. An acquisition step of acquiring the group information of the own device managed by the server device, wherein the first control step refers to the group information acquired by the acquisition step, and stores the storage information. The transition time according to the power saving mode transition time information stored in the means is compared with the current time measured by the first timing step, and the image processing apparatuses of the same group are supplied to the image processing apparatus main body. 22. The storage medium according to claim 21, wherein a storage mode switching instruction for switching to a power saving mode for saving power consumption is issued. 30. The image processing device is a printer device,
The storage medium according to any one of claims 21 to 29, comprising a digital copying device and a composite image processing device.