JP2011197222A - Image-forming device, operation part-controlling method in the same, and operation part-controlling program for image-forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image-forming device which requires a user not to switch over an operation part by means of a selector switch to select it each time the user uses the device itself, and makes an automatic switchover by itself, and is very convenient.SOLUTION: CPUs 110, 210, which are each control means to the important parts of a device, determine which is used or not used in an operation part 100 or an operation part 200, on the basis of a result of detection executed by infrared sensors 102 to detect the presence or absence of a user, the sensors being arranged in the peripheries of the operation parts 100, 200. Then, LCD back lights 107, 207 are turned off, to the operation part which is not used, to make control for prohibiting key input from key switches SWs 105, 205. When the infrared sensors 102 detect a human body, for example, the CPU 110 informs the CPU 210 that a person is detected at the operation part 100 to the operation part 200 on the basis of a control signal, and the CPU 210 of the operation part 200 turns off the back light 207 and prohibits the interruption input of a key input signal from the SW 205 to make masking.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having a highly convenient function in which a use state and a non-use state in a plurality of operation units are automatically switched according to the presence or absence of a user, an operation unit control method in the image forming apparatus, The present invention relates to an operation control program for an image forming apparatus.

  Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus, an operation unit (operation panel) for a user to operate the setting and operation of the apparatus is often arranged on the upper surface of the apparatus main body, but the operation unit is expensive in an enlarged apparatus. In such a case, the user-friendliness depends on the height of the user, and there is a problem that it is difficult for a wheelchair user or the like to use.

  Therefore, in order to improve convenience for more users, the operation unit can be rotated and arbitrarily arranged in the horizontal / vertical orientation, or the two operation units can be placed at different positions. Arranged structures have been developed.

  As a well-known technique related to an image forming apparatus in which the structure of the operation unit is devised, for example, an “image forming apparatus, a control method thereof, and a control program” in which a plurality of operation units are provided so as not to induce at least a malfunction. (Refer to Patent Document 1), or an “image forming apparatus” in which the height of the image reading unit and the operation panel can be changed in order to facilitate the operation corresponding to the user's height and physical characteristics such as the use of a wheelchair. Patent Document 2).

  The image forming apparatuses disclosed in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2 described above have an advantage that a plurality of operation units are provided so that a user can select and use an operation unit that is easy to use. Touching the key of the other operation unit, which may cause an unintentional erroneous operation, and power is wasted by starting up one of the operation units at the same time. There was a point.

  Therefore, in order to prevent such problems, the image forming apparatus is provided with a changeover switch for switching a plurality of operation units, and each operation unit is selected by switching with the changeover switch, and a backlight in an unselected operation unit is selected. A method of turning off and prohibiting key input has been introduced.

  However, in an image forming apparatus of a type in which each operation unit is selected by switching with a change-over switch, the user must select the operation unit to be used by switching with a change-over switch each time. Or there exists a subject that the operativity for that is not excellent.

  The present invention has been made to solve such problems, and its technical problem is that it is not necessary for the user to switch and select the operation unit with a change-over switch every time it is used. Another object of the present invention is to provide a highly convenient image forming apparatus, an operation unit control method in the image forming apparatus, and an operation unit control program for the image forming apparatus.

  In order to solve the above technical problem, the basic configuration of the present invention is an image provided with control means for performing control to enable key input by turning on the backlight in a case where use of a plurality of operation units is selected. The forming apparatus includes a plurality of human sensors provided around each of the plurality of operation units and outputting a detection signal indicating a result of detecting the presence / absence of a user, and the control unit includes a plurality of human sensors. Based on the detection signal from the sensor, it is judged whether it is used or not used by a plurality of operation units, and for those not used by the plurality of operation units, the backlight is turned off and key input is prohibited. It is characterized by performing control.

  In the first embodiment of the image forming apparatus, each of the plurality of operation units includes at least a touch panel, a CPU as a control unit that performs load control, a key switch, an LED, an LCD display unit, and an LCD backlight. A plurality of human sensors are infrared sensors that receive infrared rays and convert them into electrical signals to indicate detection of the human body position as detection signals, respectively, or transmit ultrasonic waves from the sensor heads and are reflected by the object. The ultrasonic sensor detects the human body position as the position of the target object by measuring the time from the transmission of the ultrasonic wave to the reception thereof, and the CPU in the operation unit. When the power is turned on, the corresponding infrared sensor or ultrasonic sensor is periodically polled. The presence of the user is determined based on whether the user is present, and if the user is not present, the operation unit is determined not to be used by the user, and the LCD backlight is turned off and input by the key switch is prohibited. Control is performed.

  The second embodiment of the image forming apparatus includes an illuminance sensor that outputs an illuminance detection signal indicating a result of detecting the brightness around the apparatus, and the CPU detects the position of the human body using an infrared sensor or an ultrasonic sensor. When it is determined that the ambient brightness of the apparatus is dark based on the illuminance detection signal in a state where it is not, control is performed to turn off the LCD backlight in the operation unit and prohibit input by the key switch.

  In the third embodiment of the image forming apparatus, when the CPU determines that the brightness around the apparatus is dark based on the illuminance detection signal in a state where the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor does not detect the human body position, Control for shifting the operation unit to the energy saving mode is performed.

  In the fourth embodiment of any one of the above image forming apparatuses, the CPU turns off the LCD backlight after a certain period of time has elapsed since the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor has not detected the human body position. An image forming apparatus that performs control to turn off and prohibit input by a key switch.

  In the fifth embodiment of any one of the image forming apparatuses described above, the CPU sets the operation unit to the energy saving mode after a certain time has elapsed since the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor has not detected the human body position. Control to shift to is performed.

  The sixth embodiment of the image forming apparatus includes a main CPU as a control unit that controls the entirety of a plurality of operation units, and each of the plurality of operation units includes at least a touch panel, a CPU for load control, a key switch, an LED, An LCD display unit and an LCD backlight are provided, and the plurality of human sensors are infrared sensors that receive infrared rays and convert them into electric signals in order to indicate detection of human body positions as detection signals, or sensors, respectively. The ultrasonic wave transmitted from the head and reflected by the object is received again by the sensor head, and the human body position is detected as the position of the object by measuring the time from transmission of the ultrasonic wave to reception. The main CPU has a plurality of infrared sensors or a plurality of ultrasonic sensors when the power is turned on in a plurality of operation units. Each of the wave sensors is periodically polled, and the presence / absence of a user is determined based on whether the value is equal to or greater than a preset threshold value. If only a part of the plurality of operation units is equal to or greater than the threshold value, a control command for turning off the LCD backlight of the other unit and prohibiting the interrupt input by the key switch is performed on the corresponding one of the CPUs. If any of the operation units is less than the threshold value, all the LCD backlights are turned off and control for prohibiting the interrupt input of the key switch is performed on the corresponding one of the CPU. It is characterized by performing control by command. In this image forming apparatus, it is preferable that a plurality of infrared sensors or a plurality of ultrasonic sensors are arranged at intermediate positions in a plurality of operation units.

  According to the present invention, the control means is used in each operation unit based on the detection signal indicating the result of detecting the presence or absence of the user from the human sensor provided around each of the plurality of operation units. For those that are not used, the backlight is turned off and key input is prohibited. Therefore, it is necessary for the user to select the operation unit by using the changeover switch every time it is used. Instead, switching is performed automatically to realize a highly convenient function.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to control of a CPU provided in the first operation unit and the second operation unit shown in FIG. 2. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 2 of the present invention. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an operation process related to control of a CPU provided in the first operation unit and the second operation unit illustrated in FIG. 4. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3 of the present invention. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation process related to control of a main CPU provided in the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 6. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an operation process related to control of a CPU provided in a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 4 of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 5 of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to control of a main CPU provided in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 9. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 6 of the present invention. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to control of a main CPU provided in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 7 of the present invention. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to control of a main CPU provided in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 13. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a first operation unit and a second operation unit provided in an image forming apparatus according to an eighth embodiment of the present invention. It is the flowchart which showed the operation | movement process which concerns on control of CPU with which the 1st operation part shown in FIG. 15 and a 2nd operation part are equipped.

  Hereinafter, an image forming apparatus, an operation unit control method in the image forming apparatus, and an operation unit control program for an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

  First, a technical outline of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be briefly described. The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is an apparatus configuration including a control unit that performs control to enable key input by turning on a backlight in a case where use of a plurality of operation units is selected. And a plurality of human sensors that output detection signals indicating the presence / absence of the presence / absence of the user, and each control unit controls each of the human sensors based on the detection signals from the human sensors. In addition to determining whether the operation unit is used or not being used by the user, control is performed to turn off the backlight and prohibit key input for those not used in each operation unit.

  With such a function, for example, in the case of an image forming apparatus having two operation units, an unintended erroneous operation such as accidentally touching the key of the other operation unit when using one operation unit. In response to the user's position by detecting the user's position with the human sensor. The operability is also improved since the operation unit that is not used by the user is automatically turned off to prohibit key input.

  Hereinafter, the detailed configuration of the image forming apparatus of the present invention will be specifically described with reference to some examples.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an external configuration of an image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. The image forming apparatus includes an image scanner unit 300 that reads a document image and performs digital signal processing, a printer unit 400 that prints the document image read by the image scanner unit 300 in full color on a sheet, and an operation panel. A first operation unit 100 which is installed horizontally on the upper surface of the apparatus, sets the printing conditions such as the number of copies, and operates the apparatus, and functions as a user interface for displaying each information of the apparatus on the LCD display unit; A second operation unit 200 configured by a panel and installed perpendicularly to the side surface of the apparatus and having the same function as the first operation unit 100 is configured.

  Among these, the 2nd operation part 200 is connected with the printer part 400 with the interface cable which can be removed from the outside, and is comprised so that attachment or detachment is possible. The first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 each have an infrared sensor and have a function of detecting the position of the user.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed configuration of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 provided in the image forming apparatus.

  Here, the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 are respectively the LCD display units 101 and 201, the touch panels 106 and 206, and the CPUs 110 and 210 as the above-described control means for controlling the load shown in FIG. Key switches (SW) 105 and 205, buzzers 104 and 204 for sounding a warning sound as necessary, LEDs 103 and 203, LCD backlights 107 and 207, and infrared signals to receive electrical signals ( Infrared sensors 102 and 202 that detect the position of the human body by converting the detection signal into a detection signal).

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the CPUs 110 and 210 provided in the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 described above. However, the control operations of the CPUs 110 and 210 here have substantially the same functions, and will be described assuming that the first operation unit 100 is initially in use.

  In the operation processing of the CPU 110 in such a case, it is first determined whether or not the power of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated. The infrared sensor 102 is periodically polled to determine whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) from the infrared sensor 102 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value does not exceed the threshold value, the process returns to before the first process (step S1), but if the detection signal value exceeds the threshold value, there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated. And notifies the second operation unit 200 that a person has been detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control signal. As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the other operation unit is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return and repeat each process.

  If the second operation unit 200 is initially in use, the CPU 210 performs an equivalent operation process to turn off the backlight 107 and turn off the key input signal from the key switch SW105. Prohibit and mask.

  Incidentally, in the operation process here, the detection signal value as a result of the process of determining whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S2). If the threshold value does not exceed the threshold value, it can be detected that there is no person at the position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated. Therefore, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns on (lights) the backlight 107, and the key switch SW105 A process of permitting and releasing the key input signal, that is, a process of allowing the backlight of the other operation unit to be turned on (ON) and permitting an interrupt of the key switch SW is performed, and then the first process (step S1). You may make it return to before and repeat each process.

  By repeating such a process, when a person is detected at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, the LCD backlight 207 of the other second operation unit 200 is turned off, and a key input signal from the key switch SW 205 is displayed. If the mask is set so that it is not accepted, there is a possibility that an unintentional erroneous operation such as accidentally touching the key switch SW205 of the other second operation unit 200 during the operation will be induced, or each operation unit 100. , 200 can be simultaneously started up and the problem of wasteful power consumption can be solved, and the operability can be improved without taking time.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 provided in the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment.

  The image forming apparatus here includes a first operation unit 100 and a second operation unit 200 having the same configuration as the apparatus according to the first embodiment, and an illuminance sensor 108 that detects the ambient brightness of the apparatus. Has been.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation processing related to the control of the CPUs 110 and 210 here.

  In the operation processing here, first, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 determines whether or not the power of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing ends. If it is turned on, the CPU 110 periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance. Is determined (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 does not exceed the threshold value, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 subsequently polls the infrared sensor 202 periodically, and the detection signal by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 continues. It is determined whether or not the value (infrared sensor signal) exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4).

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold value, it is detected that there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, and the second operation unit 200 is detected. It is notified that a person has been detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control signal (second operation unit control signal). As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 becomes the threshold value. Is exceeded, the first operation unit 100 is notified that a person has been detected by the second operation unit 200 from the control signal (first operation unit control signal). Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S5), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 determines whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4). As a result, the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 becomes the threshold value. If not, it is determined whether or not the illuminance detection signal value (illuminance sensor state signal) from the illuminance sensor 108 exceeds a predetermined threshold value (step S6), and if the illuminance detection signal value does not exceed the threshold value, Each process is repeated after returning to the first process (step S1). If the illuminance detection signal value exceeds the threshold value, the backlight 107, respectively, is controlled by the control signals (backlight off signals) from both the CPUs 110 and 210. 207 is turned off (extinguished), and the interrupt input of the key input signals from the key switches SW105 and 205 is prohibited, thereby allowing both A scaling off (OFF), after processing the interrupt disable the key switch SW (step S7) is performed, it repeats the process returns to before the first process (step S1).

  In the case of the second embodiment, the same effects as those of the first embodiment can be obtained, and the backlight of each operation unit is turned off when there is no person at the operable position based on the detection result of the illuminance sensor. A function for reducing power consumption is constructed.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 included in the image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment.

  The image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment includes the first operation unit 100, the second operation unit 200, and the illuminance sensor 108 having the same configuration as that of the apparatus according to the second embodiment. Instead of the control function, a main CPU 300 ′ is provided as a control means for controlling these functions as a whole.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the main CPU 300 ′.

  In the operation processing here, first, the main CPU 300 ′ determines whether or not the power supply of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated, but is turned on. Then, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and determines whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Judgment is made (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 does not exceed the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ subsequently polls the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 periodically, and by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4).

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold, the main CPU 300 ′ detects that there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, and the second operation unit 200 is notified from the control command (second operation unit control signal) that the first operation unit 100 has detected a person. As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. If the value exceeds the threshold, the second operation unit 200 is notified of the person detected by the control command (first operation unit control signal) to the first operation unit 100. Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S5), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Furthermore, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. If it does not exceed the threshold, it is determined whether or not the illuminance detection signal value (illuminance sensor state signal) from the illuminance sensor 108 exceeds a predetermined threshold (step S6), and the illuminance detection signal value exceeds the threshold If not, the process returns to before the first process (step S1) and repeats each process. However, if the illuminance detection signal value exceeds the threshold, both CPUs 110 and 210 are instructed to enter an energy saving mode (first operation unit energy saving signal, first 2 operation unit energy saving signals) and both the first operation units 1 are controlled by a control signal that causes both CPUs 110 and 210 to shift to the energy saving mode. 0, then the second operation unit 200 shifts to the energy saving mode (step S7) is to process is performed, it repeats the process returns to before the first process (step S1).

  In the case of the third embodiment, for example, if the apparatus is in a dark environment, a function is established in which each operation unit is shifted to the energy saving mode state to reduce wasteful power and save energy.

  The image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment is configured to include a timer (not shown) that counts time instead of the illuminance sensor 108 of the apparatus according to the second embodiment illustrated in FIG.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the CPUs 110 and 210 here.

  In the operation processing here, first, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 determines whether or not the power of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing ends. If it is turned on, the CPU 110 periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance. Is determined (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 does not exceed the threshold value, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 subsequently polls the infrared sensor 202 periodically, and the detection signal by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 continues. It is determined whether or not the value (infrared sensor signal) exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4).

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold value, it is detected that there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, and the second operation unit 200 is detected. It is notified that a person has been detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control signal (second operation unit control signal). As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 becomes the threshold value. Is exceeded, the first operation unit 100 is notified that a person has been detected by the second operation unit 200 from the control signal (first operation unit control signal). Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S5), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 determines whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4). As a result, the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 becomes the threshold value. If it does not exceed, it is determined whether or not the time counting result by the timer has passed a predetermined time (step S6), and the time counting value indicated by the time counting signal from the timer has passed a certain time. If there is not, the process returns to and waits before this processing (step S6), but if the time counting result has passed a certain time, control signals from both the CPUs 110 and 210 (first operation unit control signal, second operation unit control) Signal) to turn off (turn off) the backlights 107 and 207, respectively, and disable the interrupt input of key input signals from the key switches SW105 and 205. By risk, both backlight off (OFF), after processing the interrupt disable the key switch SW (step S7) is performed, it repeats the process returns to before the first process (step S1).

  In the case of the fourth embodiment, a function is constructed in which each backlight is automatically turned off and power consumption is reduced after a certain period of time has elapsed when there is no person at an operable position.

  FIG. 9 is a block diagram illustrating detailed configurations of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 provided in the image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

  The image forming apparatus according to the fifth embodiment includes the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 having the same configuration as that of the apparatus according to the third embodiment, and instead of the control functions of the CPUs 110 and 210, these entire units are provided. Main CPU 300 ′ as a control means for controlling the illuminance sensor 108, and instead of the illuminance sensor 108, the main CPU 300 ′ has a timer (not shown) for counting time as in the fourth embodiment.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the main CPU 300 ′.

  In the operation processing here, first, the main CPU 300 ′ determines whether or not the power supply of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated, but is turned on. Then, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and determines whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Judgment is made (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 does not exceed the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ subsequently polls the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 periodically, and by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S4).

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold, the main CPU 300 ′ detects that there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, and the second operation unit 200 is notified from the control command (second operation unit control signal) that the first operation unit 100 has detected a person. As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. If the value exceeds the threshold, the second operation unit 200 is notified of the person detected by the control command (first operation unit control signal) to the first operation unit 100. Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S5), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  Furthermore, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S4), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. If the threshold value does not exceed the threshold value, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed as a result of time counting by the timer (step S6), and the time counting value indicated by the time counting signal from the timer has elapsed a predetermined time. If not, the process returns to this process (step S6) and waits. However, if the time counting result has passed for a certain time, both CPUs 110 and 210 are instructed to enter the energy saving mode (first operation part energy saving signal, second The first operation unit of each of the control units is transmitted by a control signal that causes both the CPUs 110 and 210 to shift to the energy saving mode. 00, after the second operation unit 200 shifts to the energy saving mode (step S7) is to process is performed, it repeats the process returns to before the first process (step S1).

  In the case of the fifth embodiment, when there is no person at an operable position, a function is built that automatically shifts each operation unit to the energy saving mode after a certain period of time and further reduces wasted power to save energy. Is done.

  FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating detailed configurations of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 provided in the image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment of the present invention.

  The image forming apparatus according to the sixth embodiment includes the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 having the same configuration as the apparatus according to the third embodiment, and replaces the control functions of the CPUs 110 and 210. Main CPU 300 'as a control means for controlling the infrared sensor 102, 202 without using the illuminance sensor 108 and the timer for counting time as in the fourth embodiment as in the second embodiment. It is a structure provided with the function to perform another control with a result.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the main CPU 300 ′.

  In the operation processing here, first, the main CPU 300 ′ determines whether or not the power supply of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated, but is turned on. Then, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and determines whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Judgment is made (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ continues to periodically poll the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200, and the second operation unit 200. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) of the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S3).

  As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds the threshold value, the process returns to before the first process (step S1) and repeats the process described above to operate in a normal state and wait. If the detection signal value by the above does not exceed the threshold value, the second operation unit 200 is notified that a person has been detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control command (second operation unit control signal). Thereby, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S4), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 does not exceed the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200, 2. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S5). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ detects that there is a person at a position where the second operation unit 200 can be operated, and the first operation unit 100 The control command (first operation unit control signal) notifies the second operation unit 200 that a person has been detected. Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S6), and before the first process (step S1) Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S5), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. Is greater than the threshold, both the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 are controlled by the control commands (first operation unit control signal and second operation unit control signal) for both the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200. The unit 200 notifies the CPUs 110 and 210 that no person is detected. As a result, the CPUs 110 and 210 turn off the backlights 107 and 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning the backlight on and off, respectively, and interrupt the key input signal from the key switches SW105 and 205. By masking by prohibiting the input, the backlights of both operation units are turned off (OFF), the key switch SW interrupt is disabled (step S5), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  In the case of the sixth embodiment, the main CPU 300 ′ polls both the infrared sensors 102 and 202, so that the backlight is turned off and the power consumption is reduced even when there is no person at the operable position and during the non-operating period. A function to reduce is constructed.

  FIG. 13 is a block diagram illustrating detailed configurations of the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 provided in the image forming apparatus according to the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

  The image forming apparatus according to the seventh embodiment has the same configuration as that of the apparatus according to the sixth embodiment, and additionally includes an infrared sensor 302 at an intermediate position between the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200. It is the thing of the composition.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an operation process related to the control of the main CPU 300 ′.

  In the operation processing here, first, the main CPU 300 ′ determines whether or not the power supply of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated, but is turned on. Then, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 102, and determines whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds a predetermined threshold value. Judgment is made (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 exceeds the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ continues to periodically poll the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200, and the second operation unit 200. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value (infrared sensor signal) of the infrared sensor 202 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S3).

  As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 exceeds the threshold value, the process returns to before the first process (step S1) and repeats the process described above to operate in a normal state and wait. If the detection signal value by the above does not exceed the threshold, the CPU 210 is notified to the second operation unit 200 that a person has been detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control command (second operation unit control signal). Thereby, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the second operation unit 200 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S4), and before the first process (step S1). Return to and repeat each process.

  On the other hand, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 102 of the first operation unit 100 does not exceed the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ periodically polls the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200, 2. It is determined whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S5). As a result, if the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds the threshold value, the main CPU 300 ′ detects that there is a person at a position where the second operation unit 200 can be operated, and the first operation unit 100 In response to the control command (first operation unit control signal), the CPU 110 is notified that a person has been detected by the second operation unit 200. Thereby, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 107 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and inputs an interrupt of a key input signal from the key switch SW105. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the first operation unit 100 is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S6), and before the first process (step S1) Return to and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of determining whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 of the second operation unit 200 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance by the main CPU 300 ′ (step S5), the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 202 is determined. If the threshold value exceeds the threshold value, the infrared sensor 302 at the intermediate position is polled to determine whether or not the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 302 exceeds a preset threshold value (step S7). If the detection signal value by the value exceeds the predetermined threshold value set in advance, the process returns to the normal operation state before the first process (step S1) and repeats each process, but the detection signal value by the infrared sensor 302 sets the threshold value. If not, control commands (first operation unit control signal, second operation unit control signal) for both the first operation unit 100 and the second operation unit 200 Ri first operation section 100, the human in the second operation unit 200 notifies the CPU110,210 that it has not been detected. As a result, the CPUs 110 and 210 turn off the backlights 107 and 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning the backlight on and off, respectively, and interrupt the key input signal from the key switches SW105 and 205. By masking by prohibiting the input, the backlights of both operation units are turned off (OFF), the key switch SW interrupt is disabled (step S8), and then the first process (step S1) is performed. Return to and repeat each process.

  In the case of the seventh embodiment, the main CPU 300 ′ not only polls both the infrared sensors 102 and 202 but also polls the infrared sensor 302 at the intermediate position of each operation unit, and when there is no person at the operable position, A function for reducing power consumption by turning off the backlight even during a period of non-operation is constructed.

  FIG. 15 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of the first operation unit and the second operation unit provided in the image forming apparatus according to the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

  The image forming apparatus according to the eighth embodiment, instead of using the infrared sensors 102 and 202, as compared with the apparatus according to the first embodiment, transmits ultrasonic waves from the sensor heads and transmits the ultrasonic waves reflected from the object again. And ultrasonic sensors 111 and 211 that detect the position of the human body as the position of the object by measuring the time from transmission to reception of this ultrasonic wave.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the operation processing related to the control of the CPUs 110 and 210 here. However, the description will be made assuming that the first operation unit 100 is in use.

  In the operation processing of the CPU 110 in such a case, it is first determined whether or not the power of the image forming apparatus is turned on (step S1). If not, the operation processing is terminated. The ultrasonic sensor 111 is periodically polled to determine whether or not the detection signal value (ultrasonic sensor signal) by the ultrasonic sensor 111 exceeds a predetermined threshold value set in advance (step S2). As a result, if the detection signal value exceeds the threshold value, it is detected that there is a person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, and the second operation unit 200 is detected by the first operation unit 100 from the control signal. The CPU 210 is notified that it has been detected. As a result, the CPU 210 of the second operation unit 200 turns off the backlight 207 by a control signal (backlight off signal) for turning on / off the backlight, and interrupt input of a key input signal from the key switch SW205. By prohibiting and masking, the backlight of the other operation unit is turned off (OFF), the interrupt of the key switch SW is disabled (step S3), and before the first process (step S1). Return and repeat each process.

  Further, as a result of the process of determining whether or not the detection signal value (ultrasonic sensor signal) by the ultrasonic sensor 111 exceeds a preset threshold value (step S2), the detection signal value exceeds the threshold value. If not, it is detected that there is no person at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated. As a result, the CPU 110 of the first operation unit 100 turns on the backlight 107 (lights), permits the key input signal from the key switch SW105 to be opened, and turns on the backlight of the other operation unit. ) After the process of enabling the interrupt of the key switch SW (step S4) is performed, the process returns to before the first process (step S1) to repeat each process.

  In this case as well, if the second operation unit 200 is initially in use, the CPU 210 performs an equivalent operation process to turn off the backlight 107 and turn off the interrupt of the key input signal from the key switch SW105. Prohibit and mask.

  Even in such repeated processing, as in the case of the first embodiment, when a person is detected at a position where the first operation unit 100 can be operated, the LCD backlight 207 of the other second operation unit 200 is turned off. If masking is performed so as not to accept a key input signal from the key switch SW205, an unintentional erroneous operation such as accidentally touching the key switch SW205 of the other second operation unit 200 is induced during the operation. And the problem of wastefully consuming power by simultaneously starting the operation units 100 and 200 can be solved, and the operability can be improved without taking time.

  Incidentally, the ultrasonic sensors 111 and 211 used in the eighth embodiment may be used in place of the infrared sensors 102 and 202 of the apparatuses in the second to seventh embodiments.

  In each embodiment, the configuration including the two operation units 100 and 200 has been described. However, since the configuration including three or more operation units may be used, the image forming apparatus of the present invention is disclosed in each embodiment. It is not limited to the configuration.

  By the way, the technical outline of the image forming apparatus described in each of the above-described embodiments is that key input is performed by turning on the backlight in a case where use of a plurality of operation units is selected by a control unit installed in the image forming apparatus. In other words, based on the result of detecting the presence / absence of a user around each of the plurality of operation units. The control unit determines whether the operation unit is used or not used by the operation unit, and performs control to turn off the backlight and prohibit key input for the operation unit that is not used. Is.

  Similarly, it is executed by the information processing means provided in the image forming apparatus, and key input can be performed by turning on the backlight in the case where use of a plurality of operation units is selected by the control means installed in the image forming apparatus. It is also possible to construct an image forming apparatus operation unit control program applied when performing the control. The image forming apparatus operation unit control program is used by the control means based on the result of detecting the presence or absence of a user around each of the plurality of operation units and the user used in the plurality of operation units. In addition to determining whether or not to be used, information that is not used in the plurality of operation units includes information on a step of performing control to turn off the backlight and prohibit key input.

100 First operation unit 101, 201 LCD
102, 202, 302 Infrared sensor 103, 203 LED
104, 204 Buzzer 105, 205 Key switch (SW)
106, 206 Touch panel 107, 207 LCD backlight 108 Illuminance sensor 110, 210 CPU
111, 211 Ultrasonic sensor 200 Second operation unit 300 Image scanner unit 300 ′ Main CPU
400 Printer section

JP 2003-66779 A JP 2009-63625 A

Claims (10)

In an image forming apparatus including a control unit that performs control to turn on a backlight and enable key input in a case where use of a plurality of operation units is selected.
A plurality of human sensors are provided around each of the plurality of operation units, and output a detection signal indicating a result of detecting the presence or absence of the user,
The control means determines what is used in the plurality of operation units and what is not used by the plurality of operation units based on the detection signals from the plurality of human sensors, and is not used in the plurality of operation units. An image forming apparatus that performs control to turn off the backlight and prohibit key input.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein each of the plurality of operation units includes at least a touch panel, a CPU as the control unit that performs load control, a key switch, an LED, an LCD display unit, and an LCD backlight. The plurality of human sensors are infrared sensors that receive infrared rays and convert them into electrical signals in order to indicate detection of the human body position as the detection signals, respectively, or transmit ultrasonic waves from the sensor heads, respectively. The reflected ultrasonic wave is received again by the sensor head, and the ultrasonic sensor detects the human body position as the position of the object by measuring the time from the transmission of the ultrasonic wave to the reception thereof, and the CPU Periodically polling the corresponding infrared sensor or ultrasonic sensor when the operation unit is turned on In both cases, it is determined whether or not the user exists based on whether the threshold is equal to or greater than a preset threshold. If there is no user, the operation unit is determined not to be used, and the LCD backlight An image forming apparatus that performs control for prohibiting input by the key switch by turning off the switch.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising an illuminance sensor that outputs an illuminance detection signal indicating a result of detecting brightness around the apparatus, wherein the CPU includes the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor to determine the position of the human body. When it is determined that the brightness of the surroundings of the device is dark based on the illuminance detection signal in a state where no detection is performed, the LCD backlight in the operation unit is turned off and input by the key switch is prohibited. An image forming apparatus.   4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein when the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor is not detecting the position of the human body, the CPU is dark when the brightness around the apparatus is dark based on the illuminance detection signal. An image forming apparatus that performs control to shift the operation unit to an energy saving mode when it is determined.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein after the CPU has been in a state where the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor has not detected the human body position, the CPU has detected the human body position. An image forming apparatus that performs control to turn off an LCD backlight, turn off the LCD backlight, and prohibit input by the key switch.   5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein after the CPU has been in a state in which the infrared sensor or the ultrasonic sensor has not detected the human body position, a certain time has elapsed. An image forming apparatus that performs control to shift the operation unit to an energy saving mode.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a main CPU as the control unit that controls the entirety of the plurality of operation units, wherein each of the plurality of operation units includes at least a touch panel, a load control CPU, a key switch, and an LED. A plurality of human sensors, each of which is an infrared sensor that receives infrared light and converts it into an electrical signal to indicate detection of a human body position as the detection signal, Alternatively, an ultrasonic wave is transmitted from the sensor head, and the ultrasonic wave reflected by the object is received again by the sensor head, and the time from the transmission of the ultrasonic wave to the reception is measured to determine the position of the object as a human body. An ultrasonic sensor for detecting a position, wherein the main CPU is configured to perform a front-up operation when each of the plurality of operation units is powered on. The plurality of infrared sensors or the plurality of ultrasonic sensors are periodically polled, and the presence / absence of the user is determined based on whether or not the threshold value is greater than or less than a preset threshold. If any of the plurality of operation units is equal to or greater than the threshold value, the control command is set to prohibit the interrupt input by the key switch by turning off the LCD backlight of the other part. A control command corresponding to the CPU is provided, and if the plurality of operation units are all less than the threshold value, a control command for turning off all the LCD backlights and prohibiting an interrupt input of the key switch is provided for the CPU. An image forming apparatus, wherein the CPU performs control according to the control command.   8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the plurality of infrared sensors or the plurality of ultrasonic sensors are arranged at intermediate positions in the plurality of operation units.   When performing control to enable key input by turning on the backlight in the one selected to be used for a plurality of operation units by the control means installed in the image forming apparatus, around each of the plurality of operation units Based on the result of detecting the presence / absence of the presence of the user, the control means determines whether to be used in the plurality of operation units and not to be used by the user, and is not used in the plurality of operation units. Is a method for controlling an operation unit in an image forming apparatus, wherein control for prohibiting key input by turning off the backlight is performed.   It is executed by the information processing means provided in the image forming apparatus, and enables the key input by turning on the backlight in the one selected to be used for a plurality of operation units by the control means installed in the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus operation unit control program applied when performing control, based on a result of detecting the presence or absence of a user around each of the plurality of operation units, by the control unit, In addition to determining what is used in a plurality of operation units and what is not used by a plurality of operation units, for those not used in the plurality of operation units, information on a step of performing control to prohibit key input by turning off the backlight An operation control program for an image forming apparatus, comprising:

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