JP2008211712A - Image processing apparatus, image processing system, power saving device and power saving program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing apparatus capable of controlling power consumption during a predetermined period of time without impairing productivity or convenience. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing apparatus comprises: a control unit 200 which changes power consumption during an active mode from a first consumption mode to a second consumption mode smaller than that of the first consumption mode; a storage unit 212 for storing the power consumption; an accumulation means which reads and accumulates the power consumption required for operation from the storage unit each time the image processing apparatus operates in the active mode within a preset management period; a cumulative power measuring unit 210; a determination means 214 for determining whether or not the accumulated power consumption reaches a preset threshold; and the control unit 200 which performs control to change a frequency of a shift from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode by the change means in the case that the determination means determines that the power consumption reaches the threshold. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, a power saving apparatus, and a power saving program.

  Image processing apparatuses such as copying machines and laser printers generally consume a predetermined amount of power even in a standby state.

  That is, a laser printer or the like has a fixing device, and this fixing device generates high heat, and thus generally consumes a large amount of power. In addition, since it takes a long time to start in order to generate high heat in the fixing device, it is necessary to maintain a predetermined temperature even in a standby state in order to start the operation quickly. Therefore, it is necessary to continue supplying a certain amount of current to the fixing device even in the standby state.

  However, there is an upper limit on the amount of power that can be used in offices and the like, and if this is exceeded, the power supply is shut off due to the operation of the breaker or the blow of a fuse.

  In offices, various electronic devices such as host computers and personal computers are often used together with laser printers, etc. When these devices are turned off during use, data loss or hard disk crash during work There is a high risk of such problems as occurring.

  In order to eliminate the occurrence of such problems, a technique disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-16032 has been proposed.

  In the technique disclosed in the above publication, even if a part of a plurality of electrophotographic apparatuses (laser printers, etc.) that consume power even in a standby state is operated, the total power consumption does not exceed the reference power. Yes. That is, the power consumption of the standby electrophotographic apparatus is reduced so that the total power consumption of the operating electrophotographic apparatus and the standby electrophotographic apparatus does not exceed the reference power.

  However, in the above conventional technique, the power calculation means and the power reduction means need to include a CPU and a memory, so that the cost is high and the devices themselves consume power.

  In addition, although power consumption can be instantaneously controlled, there is a problem that total power in a certain period cannot be controlled efficiently.

Further, the above technique has a problem that power consumption can be adjusted only by a combination of a plurality of electrophotographic apparatuses.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 9-16032

  It is an object of the present invention to provide an image processing apparatus, an image processing system, a power saving apparatus, and a power saving program that can control power consumption in a predetermined period without impairing productivity and convenience. .

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the image processing apparatus according to the invention of claim 1 changes the power consumption amount of the operation mode from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode less than the first consumption mode. Storage means for storing the power consumption measured for each operation mode, and reading the power consumption required for the operation from the storage unit every time the operation mode is operated within a preset management period. An accumulating means for accumulating, a determining means for determining whether or not an amount of electric power accumulated by the accumulating means has reached a preset threshold, and an amount of electric power consumed by the determining means And a control unit that controls to change the frequency of transition from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode by the changing unit when the determination is made.

  Further, the image processing apparatus according to the invention of claim 2 is characterized in that the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages having different power consumption amounts.

  The image processing apparatus according to the invention of claim 3 controls the control means to change the stage of the second consumption mode when the determination means determines that the threshold is reached. It is characterized by that.

  The image processing apparatus according to a fourth aspect of the invention is characterized in that the threshold value is a value exceeding 70% with respect to the allowable power consumption input by the input means.

  In the image processing apparatus according to claim 5, the threshold value is set to two or more different values by the threshold value setting means, and the control means determines that each threshold value has been reached by the determination means. Each time, control is performed to change at least one of the transition frequency from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode and the stage of the second consumption mode.

  In the image processing apparatus according to the invention of claim 6, the operation mode includes one or more functions provided in the device, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode. It contains at least one.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 7 is characterized in that the power consumption amount of the operation mode is measured in advance, and the storage unit stores the power consumption amount corresponding to each operation mode. To do.

  The image processing apparatus according to an eighth aspect of the present invention further includes a measuring unit that measures a power consumption amount each time the operation mode is operated, and the storage unit includes a power consumption amount measured by the measuring unit. Are sequentially stored.

  The image processing apparatus according to an invention of claim 9 is characterized in that the control means has one or more functions provided in the apparatus when the determination means determines that the power consumption has reached the threshold. Control is performed so that at least one of a setting mode for setting each function and a combination of each function and each setting mode cannot be operated.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 10 is characterized in that the allowable power consumption is set for each user.

  The image processing apparatus according to claim 11 is characterized in that the management period is set for each user.

  Further, the image processing apparatus according to the invention of claim 12 further comprises a recording means for recording the management period, the allowable power consumption amount during the management period, and the cumulative power consumption amount during the management period for each user. It is characterized by providing.

  The image processing apparatus according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention further includes authentication means for authenticating the user, and the control means is within the allowable power consumption only for the user authenticated by the authentication means. Control is performed to operate at least one of one or more functions provided in the apparatus, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode.

  An image processing system according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention is connected to the one or more image processing apparatuses according to any one of the first to thirteenth aspects and the image processing apparatus via a communication line. And one or more information processing apparatuses.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a power saving apparatus comprising: a changing unit that changes a power consumption amount of an operation mode of the apparatus from a first consumption mode to a second consumption mode that is less than the first consumption mode; Storage means for storing the power consumption measured for each mode, and whenever operating in the operation mode within a preset management period, the power consumption required for the operation is read from the storage means and accumulated. Cumulative means, determination means for determining whether or not the power consumption accumulated by the cumulative means has reached a preset threshold, and the determination means has determined that the power consumption has reached the threshold And a control means for controlling to change the frequency of transition from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode by the changing means.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 16 is characterized in that the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages each having a different power consumption amount.

  Further, in the power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 17, the control means changes the stage of the second consumption mode when the determination means determines that the power consumption amount has reached the threshold value. It is characterized by controlling as follows.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 18 is characterized in that the threshold value is a value exceeding 70% with respect to an allowable power consumption input by the input means.

  In the power saving apparatus according to claim 19, the threshold value is set to two or more different values by the threshold value setting means, and the control means determines that each threshold value has been reached by the determination means. Each time, control is performed to change at least one of the transition frequency from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode and the stage of the second consumption mode.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 20 is characterized in that the operation mode includes one or more functions provided in the controlled device, a setting mode for setting each function, each function and each setting mode. It includes at least one of the combinations.

  The power saving device according to the invention of claim 21 is characterized in that the power consumption amount of the operation mode is measured in advance, and the storage means stores the power consumption amount corresponding to each operation mode. To do.

  The power-saving device according to the invention of claim 22 further includes a measuring unit that measures a power consumption every time the operation mode is operated, and the storage unit includes a power consumption measured by the measuring unit. Are sequentially stored.

  The power-saving device according to the invention of claim 23 is characterized in that the control means includes one or more of the devices to be controlled when the determination means determines that the power consumption has reached the threshold value. Control is performed so that at least one of a function, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode cannot be operated.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 24 is characterized in that the allowable power consumption is set for each user.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 25 is characterized in that the management period input by the setting means is set for each user.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 26 further comprises recording means for recording the management period, the allowable power consumption during the management period, and the cumulative power consumption during the management period for each user. It is characterized by providing.

  The power saving apparatus according to the invention of claim 27 further comprises an authentication means for authenticating the user, and the control means is within the allowable power consumption amount only for the user authenticated by the authentication means, Control is performed so that at least one of one or more functions included in the device to be controlled, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode is operated.

  A power saving program according to a twenty-eighth aspect of the invention includes a change process for changing the power consumption amount of an operation mode from the first consumption mode to a second consumption mode less than the first consumption mode, and for each operation mode. A storage process for storing the measured power consumption, a cumulative process for accumulating the power consumption required for the operation every time the operation mode is operated within a preset management period, A determination process for determining whether or not the accumulated power consumption has reached a preset threshold value, and when it is determined in the determination process that the power consumption has reached the threshold value, And a control process for performing control so as to change the frequency of transition from one consumption mode to the second consumption mode.

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  In other words, according to the first aspect of the present invention, when it is determined that the amount of power consumption has reached the threshold, the second consumption is changed from the first consumption mode as compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since the frequency of transition to the mode is changed, there is an excellent effect that power consumption can be accurately controlled in a predetermined period without impairing productivity and convenience.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages having different power consumption amounts as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. There is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly during this period.

  According to the invention described in claim 3, the stage of the second consumption mode is changed when it is determined that the threshold value is reached as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Therefore, there is an effect that the power consumption in the predetermined period can be controlled more flexibly.

  According to the invention described in claim 4, the threshold value is set to a value exceeding 70% with respect to the input allowable power consumption amount, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. There is an effect that it is possible to control the power consumption in the period at a more accurate timing.

  Further, according to the fifth aspect of the invention, the first consumption mode is changed to the second consumption mode each time it is determined that each threshold value is reached as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since at least one of the transition frequency and the stage of the second consumption mode is changed, there is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly in a predetermined period.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 6, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the operation mode includes one or more functions provided in the apparatus, a setting mode for setting each function, Since at least one combination of each function and each setting mode is included, there is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly during a predetermined period.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 7, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption amount of the operation mode is measured in advance, and the power consumption amount is associated with each operation mode. Since storage is performed, there is an effect that power consumption can be accurately controlled in a predetermined period at a lower cost.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, since the measured power consumption is sequentially stored as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption in a predetermined period in real time is stored. There is an effect that it is possible to accurately perform the control.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, one or more functions provided in the device when it is determined that the power consumption has reached the threshold value as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since at least one of the setting mode for setting each function and the combination of each function and each setting mode is controlled so as not to operate, the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly in a predetermined period. There is an effect that can be done.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 10, since the allowable power consumption is set for each user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption is controlled in a predetermined period. There is an effect that it can be performed more flexibly for each user.

  According to the invention described in claim 11, since the management period is set for each user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the user can control the power consumption in a predetermined period. There is an effect that it can be performed more flexibly.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the management period, the allowable power consumption during the management period, and the cumulative power consumption within the management period are provided for each user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since the amount is recorded, there is an effect that the power consumption in a predetermined period can be controlled more flexibly for each user.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 13, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, one or more functions provided in the apparatus within the allowable power consumption amount only for the authenticated user. Since at least one of the setting mode for setting each function and the combination of each function and each setting mode is operated, power consumption control in a predetermined period is more accurately performed for each user. There is an effect that can be.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 14, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, communication with one or more image processing apparatuses according to any one of claims 1 to 13 is possible. Since it is composed of one or more information processing apparatuses connected to the image processing apparatus via a line, the power consumption is accurately controlled in a predetermined period without impairing productivity and convenience. There is an excellent effect of being able to.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the second consumption is changed from the first consumption mode when it is determined that the amount of power consumption has reached the threshold as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since the frequency of transition to the mode is changed, there is an excellent effect that power consumption can be accurately controlled in a predetermined period without impairing productivity and convenience.

  According to the invention described in claim 16, the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages with different power consumption amounts as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. There is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly during this period.

  According to the invention described in claim 17, the stage of the second consumption mode is changed when it is determined that the threshold value is reached as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Therefore, there is an effect that the power consumption in the predetermined period can be controlled more flexibly.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 18, since the threshold value is set to a value exceeding 70% with respect to the input allowable power consumption amount as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, There is an effect that it is possible to control the power consumption in the period at a more accurate timing.

  In addition, according to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, the first consumption mode is changed to the second consumption mode each time it is determined that each threshold value is reached as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since at least one of the transition frequency and the stage of the second consumption mode is changed, there is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly in a predetermined period.

  According to the invention described in claim 20, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the operation mode includes one or more functions provided in the device, a setting mode for setting each function, Since at least one combination of each function and each setting mode is included, there is an effect that the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly during a predetermined period.

  According to the invention of claim 21, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption of the operation mode is measured in advance, and the power consumption is associated with each operation mode. Since storage is performed, there is an effect that power consumption can be accurately controlled in a predetermined period at a lower cost.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 22, since the measured power consumption is sequentially stored as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption in a predetermined period in real time. There is an effect that it is possible to accurately perform the control.

  According to the invention described in claim 23, one or more functions provided in the device when it is determined that the power consumption has reached the threshold value as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since at least one of the setting mode for setting each function and the combination of each function and each setting mode is controlled so as not to operate, the power consumption can be controlled more flexibly in a predetermined period. There is an effect that can be done.

  Further, according to the invention described in claim 24, since the allowable power consumption is set for each user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the power consumption is controlled in a predetermined period. There is an effect that it can be performed more flexibly for each user.

  According to the invention described in claim 25, since the management period is set for each user as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the user can control the power consumption in a predetermined period. There is an effect that it can be performed more flexibly.

  Further, according to the invention of claim 26, compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided, for each user, the management period, the allowable power consumption during the management period, the cumulative power consumption within the management period Since the amount is recorded, there is an effect that the power consumption in a predetermined period can be controlled more flexibly for each user.

  According to the invention described in claim 27, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, one or more functions provided in the apparatus within the allowable power consumption amount only for the authenticated user. Since at least one of the setting mode for setting each function and the combination of each function and each setting mode is operated, power consumption control in a predetermined period is more accurately performed for each user. There is an effect that can be.

  According to the invention described in claim 28, the second consumption is changed from the first consumption mode when it is determined that the amount of power consumption has reached the threshold as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since the frequency of transition to the mode is changed, there is an excellent effect that power consumption can be accurately controlled in a predetermined period without impairing productivity and convenience.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment as an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of a power saving system according to the first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a printer as an example of an image processing apparatus used in the power saving system according to the first embodiment. FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of power saving processing according to the first embodiment, FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of power saving processing according to the second embodiment, FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of a printer as an example of an image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 6 is a process of power saving processing executed by the printer according to the second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows a procedure.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the power saving system S1 according to the first embodiment includes composite printers PR1 and PR2 as examples of an image processing apparatus and an information processing apparatus via a communication line L such as a LAN. As an example, a host computer PC1 and a personal computer PC2 are included.

  In this embodiment, the case where the printers PR1 and PR2 are provided with the power saving function will be described. However, all or part of the power saving function is performed by the power saving program installed in the host computer PC1 or the personal computer PC2. You may do it.

  A composite printer is a printer having a scanner function, a facsimile function, etc. in addition to a printing function.

  Here, the configuration of the control system of the printer PR1 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the printers PR1 and PR2 have the same configuration.

  In FIG. 2, a control unit (control means, determination means) 200 that constitutes a control system of the printer PR1 is constituted by, for example, a microcomputer or the like, and is used to input setting information such as a management period, allowable power consumption, and a threshold value. An image is formed on a control panel 300 as a means (setting means, input means, setting means), a CCD 400 as a photoelectric conversion element for imaging an image original placed on a platen glass, or a recording medium such as a printing paper. An image output device 500 serving as a printer engine and a display 500 configured to display various information are connected.

  The control unit 200 includes a display control unit 201 that controls messages displayed on the display 600, an operation control unit 202 that controls the control panel 300, an image memory 203 that stores image information read by the CCD 400, and various peripheral devices. A USB interface 204 for connecting devices, a network interface (I / F) 205 connected to a communication line L such as a LAN to exchange data with the host computer PC1, etc., and an ADF for controlling an auto document feeder (ADF) (not shown) A control unit 206, a power saving time management unit 207 for managing power saving time, a power saving mode control unit (changing means) 208 for controlling a power saving mode provided in a plurality of stages, and an allowance for storing a set allowable power consumption amount Power storage unit 209, cumulative power consumption and measurement Power measurement unit (cumulative unit) 210, management period storage unit 211 that stores the input management period, power consumption storage unit (storage unit) 212 that stores power consumption, document reading control unit 213 that controls the CCD 400, etc. The power saving control unit 214 controls the overall power function, the threshold storage unit 215 that stores the input threshold value, and the like.

  Note that the image data stored in the image memory 203 feeds the recording medium from a paper cassette that holds the recording medium when the operation by the copy function is performed, and the image output apparatus 500 transfers the image to the recording medium. Discharged.

  Further, when the operation by the scanner function is performed, it is transferred to the host computer PC1, personal computer PC2, etc. via the communication line L and processed.

  In addition, when an operation by the facsimile function is performed, it is transmitted to the facsimile machine on the other side via a public line.

  When performing an operation using the print service function, the printer PR1 receives a print job transmitted from the host computer PC1, personal computer PC2, or the like via the communication line L or the USB interface 204 and converts it into image data. After the conversion, the image is stored in the image memory 203, transferred to a recording medium by the image output apparatus 500, and discharged.

The power saving time management unit 207 manages the power saving time input from the operation control unit 202, and performs time measurement when the system shifts to the power saving time according to an instruction from the power saving control unit 214. Then, after the designated time has passed, the power saving mode control unit 208 is notified.
The power saving mode control unit 208 shifts the system to a predetermined power saving state. Further, when a return condition from power saving is detected, the system is shifted to the standby state.

  The management period storage unit 211 stores a period for managing power consumption. Input from the operation control unit 202.

  The allowable power storage unit 209 stores the power consumption allowed in the management period of the management period storage unit 211 input from the operation control unit 202.

  The total power measurement unit 210 acquires the power consumed by each service executed by the power saving control unit 214 from the power consumption storage unit 212 and calculates the total power in the management period stored in the management period storage unit 211. To do.

  The power consumption storage unit 212 stores power consumption in each mode (copying function, scanner function, facsimile function, printing function) (setting mode: setting of color or monochrome for the printing function, for example) and power consumption in the standby state. Measure in advance and store it.

  Note that the power consumption in each mode (setting mode) of each function and the power consumption in the standby state are measured in advance in addition to measuring in advance as described above. The power consumption may be measured, and the measurement result may be stored in the power consumption storage unit 212.

  From the control panel 300, a management period (for example, one week, one month, etc.), an allowable power consumption (for example, 300 kW, 500 kW, etc.), a threshold (for example, 71 to 89% of the allowable power consumption, 90 to 94) %, 95-99%, 100%, etc.) are input via an input device such as a touch panel or a keyboard.

  Next, the processing procedure of the power saving process as the first embodiment executed in the power saving system S1 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When this process is started, it is first determined whether or not a management period has been input via the control panel 300 in step S100. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is, and the determination result is “Yes”. In this case, the process proceeds to step S101.

  In step S101, the input management period is stored in the management period storage unit 212, and then the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, it is determined whether or not an allowable power consumption is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, step S103 is performed. Migrate to

  In step S103, the input allowable power consumption is stored in the allowable power storage unit 209, and then the process proceeds to step S104.

  In step S104, it is determined whether or not a threshold value is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S105. .

  In step S105, the input threshold value is stored in the threshold value storage unit 215, and then the process proceeds to step S106. For example, a value such as 70% of the allowable power consumption is input as the threshold value.

  In step S106, it is determined whether a function to be used has been selected. Specifically, it is determined whether the copy function, the scanner function, the facsimile function, or the print function is selected, or, in the case of the print function, for example, color print or monochrome print is selected. The If the determination result is “No”, the process waits until it is selected. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S107.

  In step S107, power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is calculated. Specifically, the power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is read from the power consumption storage unit 212 and calculated. For example, if the information indicating that 10 W of power is consumed per color print is stored in the power consumption storage unit 212 and the job is 10 pages of color print, the total power consumption is 100 W.

  In addition, when measuring each power consumption in real time, the measurement result will be read sequentially.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S108, where the accumulated power measurement unit 210 calculates the accumulated power within the management period, and then proceeds to step S109.

  In step S109, it is determined whether or not the accumulated power exceeds the threshold value. If the determination result is “No”, the process returns to step S106 and the same processing is repeated until the accumulated power reaches the threshold value. When the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S110.

  In step S110, the shift to the power saving mode (shift frequency) is shortened, and then the process proceeds to step S111. To shorten the transition interval (frequency of transition) to the power saving mode, specifically, the state of transitioning to the power saving mode after 5 minutes has elapsed in the normal state, such as 1 minute interval, 10 second interval, etc. Also change to a shorter interval. The power saving mode referred to here is a mode in which the power consumption amount of the operation mode (each function) is changed from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode having a lower power consumption amount than the first consumption mode ( Mode).

  As a result, in a situation where the accumulated power exceeds 70% (threshold) of the allowable power consumption and the power consumption is relatively high, it is possible to increase the frequency of shifting to the power saving mode with relatively low power consumption. It is possible to effectively save power.

  In step S111, it is determined whether or not the management period has passed. If the determination result is “No”, the process is terminated as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S112.

  In step S112, the accumulated power is reset to “0”, and the process ends. Thereby, it is possible to perform power saving management without impairing productivity and convenience within a management period input by a user or the like.

  Next, a processing procedure of power saving processing as the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When this process is started, it is first determined in step S200 whether or not a management period has been input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is, and the determination result is “Yes”. In this case, the process proceeds to step S201.

  In step S201, the input management period is stored in the management period storage unit 212, and then the process proceeds to step S202.

  In step S202, it is determined whether or not an allowable power consumption is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, step S203 is performed. Migrate to

  In step S203, the input allowable power consumption is stored in the allowable power storage unit 209, and then the process proceeds to step S204.

  In step S204, it is determined whether or not a threshold value is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S205. .

  In step S205, the input threshold value is stored in the threshold value storage unit 215, and then the process proceeds to step S206. As the threshold value, for example, in this embodiment, four levels of 71 to 89%, 90 to 94%, 95 to 99%, and 100% of the allowable power consumption are set.

  In step S206, it is determined whether a function to be used has been selected. Specifically, it is determined whether the copy function, the scanner function, the facsimile function, or the print function is selected, or, in the case of the print function, for example, color print or monochrome print is selected. The If the determination result is “No”, the process waits until it is selected. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is calculated. Specifically, the power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is read from the power consumption storage unit 212 and calculated. When each power consumption is measured in real time, the measurement result is read out.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S208, where the accumulated power measurement unit 210 calculates the accumulated power within the management period, and then proceeds to step S209.

  In step S209, it is determined whether or not the accumulated power exceeds 70% of the allowable power consumption. If the determination result is “No”, the process returns to step S206 until the accumulated power reaches 70% of the allowable power consumption. Similar processing is repeated. When the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S210.

  In step S210, a threshold level is determined.

  Specifically, when it is determined that the accumulated power is 71 to 89% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S210A, and the transition time to the power saving mode is set to the minimum (for example, 1 second). Then, the process proceeds to step S211. If it is determined that the accumulated power is 90 to 94% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S210B, and after setting for prohibiting color printing from the next job, the process proceeds to step S211. On the other hand, if it is determined that the accumulated power is 95 to 99% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S210C, and the setting for prohibiting the use of the copy function and the print function from the next job is performed, and then step S211 Migrate to If it is determined that the accumulated power is 100% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S210D, and after setting for prohibiting all jobs during the management period, the process proceeds to step S211.

  Thereby, more flexible power saving management can be performed, and power saving can be effectively performed.

  In step S211, it is determined whether or not the management period has passed. If the determination result is “No”, the process is terminated as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S212.

  In step S212, the accumulated power is reset to “0” and the process ends. Thereby, it is possible to perform power saving management without impairing productivity and convenience within the management period input by the user or the like.

  Next, a printer PR3 as an image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 5 and the flowchart of FIG.

  The difference from the printers PR1 and PR2 applied to the first embodiment is that the control unit 200 includes a user authentication unit 700, and the other components are denoted by the same reference numerals and will not be described. Omit.

  A known user authentication device or the like can be applied to the user authentication unit 700. Specifically, the ID code and password of the user (user) are registered in advance in the storage device, and the ID code and password input from the input device such as the touch panel or keyboard of the control panel 300 are collated, and the user's ID code and password are verified. The validity can be authenticated.

  In addition, a user authentication device applying biometrics (biometric authentication) may be used to authenticate the legitimacy of the user based on individual physical characteristics such as a fingerprint, retina, and iris.

  Further, the allowable power consumption amount of the user can be stored in the power consumption storage unit 212 in correspondence with the registered user. Thereby, power saving management can be performed for each user.

  Alternatively, a management period may be set for each user and stored in the management period storage unit 210.

  Furthermore, it is also possible to set a threshold value for each user so that power saving can be managed more flexibly.

  Further, functions that can be used for each user are limited (for example, user A can use only printing and copying, and user B can use all functions), so that power saving management can be performed more flexibly and accurately. You can also.

  Next, a processing procedure of power saving processing executed by the printer PR3 having the above configuration will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the power saving process is started, it is first determined in step S300 whether or not a management period has been input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is, and the determination result is “ In the case of “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S301.

  In step S301, the input management period is stored in the management period storage unit 212, and then the process proceeds to step S302. The management period can be set for each user, and data of each management period is stored in a predetermined area of the management period storage unit 212 in correspondence with each user.

  In step S302, it is determined whether or not the allowable power consumption is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, step S303 is performed. Migrate to

  In step S303, the input allowable power consumption is stored in the allowable power storage unit 209, and then the process proceeds to step S304. The allowable power consumption can be set for each user, and the data of each allowable power consumption is stored in a predetermined area of the allowable power storage unit 209 in correspondence with each user.

  In step S304, it is determined whether or not a threshold value is input via the control panel 300. If the determination result is “No”, the process waits as it is. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S305. .

  In step S305, the input threshold value is stored in the threshold value storage unit 215, and then the process proceeds to step S206. As the threshold, for example, in this embodiment, three levels of 90 to 94%, 95 to 99%, and 100% of the allowable power consumption are set. The threshold value can be set for each user, and data of each threshold value is stored in a predetermined area of the threshold value storage unit 215 in correspondence with each user.

  In step S306, it is determined whether the user has been authenticated. Specifically, when the ID code and password entered via the control panel are collated, or when a biometric user authentication device is used, fingerprints are collated, and the collation result is determined to be valid In step S307, if the collation result is negative, the process ends.

  In step S307, it is determined whether a function to be used has been selected. Specifically, it is determined whether the copy function, the scanner function, the facsimile function, or the print function is selected, or, in the case of the print function, for example, color print or monochrome print is selected. The In addition, the function which can be used for every user can also be limited, In that case, the function used within the range of the function which can be used will be selected.

  If the determination result is “No”, the process waits until it is selected. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S308.

  In step S308, power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is calculated. Specifically, the power consumption corresponding to the function to be used is read from the power consumption storage unit 212 and calculated. When each power consumption is measured in real time, the measurement result is read out.

  Next, the process proceeds to step S309, where the accumulated power measurement unit 210 calculates the accumulated power within the management period, and then proceeds to step S310.

  In step S310, it is determined whether or not the accumulated power exceeds 90% of the allowable power consumption of the user. If the determination result is “No”, the process returns to step S307 and the accumulated power is the allowable power consumption of the user. The same process is repeated until 70% of the above is reached. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S311.

  In step S311, the threshold level is determined.

  Specifically, when it is determined that the accumulated power is 91 to 94% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S311A, and only the user is set to prohibit color printing from the next job. The process proceeds to step S312. If it is determined that the accumulated power is 95 to 99% of the permissible power consumption, the process proceeds to step S311B, and after setting to prohibit the use of the copy function and the print function from the next job, step S312 Migrate to If it is determined that the accumulated power is 100% of the allowable power consumption, the process proceeds to step S311C, and settings for prohibiting all jobs during the management period are performed, and then the process proceeds to step S312.

  Thereby, flexible power saving management can be performed for each user, and power saving can be implemented more effectively.

  In step S312, it is determined whether or not the management period of the user has passed. If the determination result is “No”, the process ends. If the determination result is “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S313.

  In step S313, the accumulated power of the user is reset to “0”, and the process ends. Thereby, it is possible to perform power saving management without impairing productivity and convenience within the input management period of the user.

  Although the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not limited to the disclosed technology. Should not be considered. That is, the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed restrictively based on the description in the above embodiment, but should be construed according to the description of the scope of claims. All modifications that fall within the scope of the claims and the equivalent technology are included.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the composite type printer is exemplified as the image processing apparatus. .

  Further, the control unit 200 of the printers PR1 to PR3 shown in FIG. 2 and FIG. 5 can be configured as an independent power saving apparatus or a power saving program. It can be applied to power management.

  When using a program, it can be provided via a network or stored in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

  The image processing system according to the present invention can be applied to a laser printer, a full color printer, an ink jet printer, a facsimile machine, and the like.

It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the power saving system which concerns on the 1st Embodiment of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of a printer as an example of an image processing apparatus used in a power saving system according to a first embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the power saving process which concerns on a 1st Example. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the power saving process which concerns on a 2nd Example. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the printer as an example of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of power saving processing executed by the printer according to the second embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

S1 Image processing system PR1, PR2, PR3 Printer (image processing device)
PC1 Host computer (information processing device)
PC2 Personal computer (information processing device)
L Communication line 200 Control unit (control means)
201 Display control unit 202 Operation control unit 203 Image memory 204 USB interface 205 Network interface 206 ADF control unit 207 Power saving time management unit 208 Power saving mode control unit 209 Allowable power storage unit 210 Cumulative power measurement unit (cumulative unit)
211 Management period storage unit 212 Power consumption storage unit (storage unit)
213 Document reading control unit 214 Power saving control unit (determination unit)
215 Threshold storage unit (threshold storage means)
300 Control panel (setting means, input means, threshold setting means)
400 CCD
500 Image output device 600 Display 700 User authentication unit

Claims (28)

Changing means for changing the power consumption amount of the operation mode from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode less than the first consumption mode;
Storage means for storing power consumption measured for each operation mode;
Each time it operates in the operation mode within a preset management period, the power consumption amount required for the operation is read from the storage means and accumulated,
Determining means for determining whether or not the power consumption accumulated by the accumulating means has reached a preset threshold;
Control means for controlling to change the frequency of transition from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode by the changing unit when the determination unit determines that the power consumption amount has reached the threshold;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages having different power consumption amounts. The control means includes
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the determination unit determines that the threshold value has been reached, control is performed to change the stage of the second consumption mode.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the threshold value is a value exceeding 70% with respect to the allowable power consumption input by the input unit. The threshold is set to two or more different values by the threshold setting means,
The control means determines at least one of the transition frequency from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode and the stage of the second consumption mode each time the determination unit determines that each threshold value has been reached. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus is controlled so as to be changed.   The operation mode includes at least one of one or more functions provided in the apparatus, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode. The image processing apparatus according to claim 5. The power consumption of the operation mode is measured in advance,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit stores the amount of power consumption corresponding to each operation mode. It further comprises measuring means for measuring power consumption every time it is operated according to the operation mode,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the storage unit sequentially stores power consumption measured by the measurement unit. The control means includes
When the determination unit determines that the power consumption has reached the threshold value, one or more functions provided in the apparatus, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein at least one of the control units is controlled so as not to operate.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the allowable power consumption is set for each user.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the management period is set for each user.   12. The recording apparatus according to claim 10, further comprising a recording unit that records, for each user, the management period, an allowable power consumption amount during the management period, and a cumulative power consumption amount during the management period. The image processing apparatus according to any one of the above. An authentication means for authenticating the user;
The control means includes
Only for the user who has been authenticated by the authentication means, within the allowable power consumption, one or more functions provided in the apparatus, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode The image processing apparatus according to claim 10, wherein at least one is controlled to operate. One or more image processing apparatuses according to any one of claims 1 to 13, and
One or more information processing devices connected to the image processing device via a communication line;
An image processing system comprising: Changing means for changing the power consumption amount of the operation mode of the apparatus from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode less than the first consumption mode;
Storage means for storing power consumption measured for each operation mode;
Each time it operates in the operation mode within a preset management period, the power consumption amount required for the operation is read from the storage means and accumulated,
Determining means for determining whether or not the power consumption accumulated by the accumulating means has reached a preset threshold;
Control means for controlling to change the frequency of transition from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode by the changing unit when the determination unit determines that the power consumption amount has reached the threshold;
A power saving apparatus comprising:   16. The power saving apparatus according to claim 15, wherein the second consumption mode is divided into a plurality of stages with different power consumption amounts. The control means includes
17. The power saving apparatus according to claim 16, wherein when the determination unit determines that the power consumption amount has reached the threshold value, control is performed to change the stage of the second consumption mode.   The power saving apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 17, wherein the threshold value is a value exceeding 70% with respect to an allowable power consumption amount input by the input unit. The threshold is set to two or more different values by the threshold setting means,
The control means determines at least one of the transition frequency from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode and the stage of the second consumption mode each time the determination unit determines that each threshold value has been reached. The power-saving device according to any one of claims 15 to 18, wherein the power-saving device is controlled so as to be changed.   The operation mode includes at least one of one or more functions included in a device to be controlled, a setting mode for setting each function, and a combination of each function and each setting mode. Item 20. The power saving apparatus according to any one of Items 15 to 19. The power consumption of the operation mode is measured in advance,
The power storage device according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the storage unit stores the amount of power consumption corresponding to each operation mode. It further comprises measuring means for measuring power consumption every time it is operated according to the operation mode,
The power storage device according to any one of claims 15 to 20, wherein the storage unit sequentially stores the power consumption measured by the measurement unit. The control means includes
When the determination unit determines that the amount of power consumption has reached the threshold value, one or more functions included in the device to be controlled, a setting mode for setting each function, and each function and each setting mode The power saving apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 22, wherein at least one of the combinations is controlled so as not to operate.   The power saving apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 23, wherein the allowable power consumption is set for each user.   The power saving apparatus according to any one of claims 15 to 24, wherein the management period input by the setting means is set for each user.   26. The recording apparatus according to claim 24, further comprising a recording unit configured to record the management period, the allowable power consumption amount during the management period, and the cumulative power consumption amount during the management period for each user. The power saving apparatus according to any one of the above. An authentication means for authenticating the user;
The control means includes
Only for the user who has been authenticated by the authentication means, within the allowable power consumption, one or more functions of the controlled device, a setting mode for setting each function, each function and each setting mode, 27. The power saving apparatus according to claim 24, wherein at least one of the combinations is controlled to operate. A change process of changing the power consumption amount of the operation mode from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode less than the first consumption mode;
A storage process for storing power consumption measured for each operation mode;
Every time it operates in the operation mode within a preset management period, a cumulative process of accumulating the power consumption required for the operation;
A determination process for determining whether or not the power consumption accumulated by the accumulation means has reached a preset threshold;
A control process for controlling to change the frequency of transition from the first consumption mode to the second consumption mode according to the change process when it is determined in the determination process that the power consumption has reached the threshold;
A power-saving program that causes a computing means to execute the above.

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