JP2012177796A - Power supply control device, image processing device, and power supply control program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce unnecessary contact switching operations in switching means which is used to turn on a power source and requires mechanical contact switching.SOLUTION: A first sub power switch 256 (SW-1) has a shorter life time than an electronic switching element because being a mechanical switch. Therefore, a first human sensor 28 and a second human sensor 30 are connected to a first power source unit 248 being a normally feeding converter, whereby contact switching operations are reduced. That is, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 collaborate to detect moving objects, so that an unnecessary contact switching operation of the first sub power switch 256 (SW-1) is avoided when a moving object entering an area F but not entering an area N, namely, a moving object passing through is detected.

Description

  The present invention relates to a power supply control device, an image processing device, and a power supply control program.

  In Patent Document 1, a human sensor is installed in an image processing apparatus, a person approaching the image processing apparatus is detected, the power of the image processing apparatus is turned on, and power consumption and convenience are reduced. It has been proposed to achieve both.

  More specifically, distance detection means installed at two points are employed as the human sensor, and it is determined whether or not the moving direction of the human body is toward a predetermined area, and based on the determination result, the image forming apparatus main body In the case where the start-up is executed for an event (simple pedestrian) that approaches the image forming apparatus and passes through without being operated when the human body approaches the human body by the human sensor Contains.

  Patent Document 2 describes that an on / off control function of a human body detection function can be performed in an image forming apparatus including a human body detection unit that emits infrared rays and detects a nearby person from reflected light. . This avoids interference with devices using other infrared rays, stops unnecessary infrared emission, and extends the sensor life.

JP 05-054771 A JP 2001-265169 A

  The present invention relates to a power supply control device and image processing capable of reducing unnecessary contact switching operation in a switching means that requires mechanical contact switching used for power supply startup, compared to a case without this configuration. The object is to obtain an apparatus and a power supply control program.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an always-powered operated portion that operates by constantly receiving power supply, an appropriately-powered operated portion that appropriately receives power supply as needed, and power for the appropriately-powered operated portion. Provided between the power supply unit, which is a power source necessary for each operation of the determination control unit for determining whether to supply power, and the power supply unit and the appropriate power supply operated unit. Switching means for switching whether or not to supply power to the operating unit by a switching operation involving contact or non-contact of a mechanical contact, and a moving body including a user connected to the discrimination control unit are set in advance. A first moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the first moving body is present in the first region, and the discrimination control section connected to the moving body from the first moving body detection means. When it receives a signal indicating the presence of As information for determining the contact switching direction of the switching means in another control unit, whether or not the moving body is present in a second region narrower than the first region and close to the operated unit And second moving body detection means for detecting the above.

  The invention according to claim 2 is a constantly powered operation unit that operates by constantly receiving power supply, an appropriately powered operation unit that receives power supply as needed, and power for the appropriately powered operation unit. Provided between the power supply unit, which is a power source necessary for each operation of the determination control unit for determining whether to supply power, and the power supply unit and the appropriate power supply operated unit. Switching means for switching whether or not to supply power to the operating unit by a switching operation involving contact or non-contact of a mechanical contact, and a moving body including a user connected to the discrimination control unit are set in advance. A first moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the first moving body is present in the first region, and the discrimination control section connected to the moving body from the first moving body detection means. When it receives a signal indicating the presence of As information for determining the contact switching direction of the switching means in another control unit, whether or not the moving body is present in a second region narrower than the first region and close to the operated unit A second moving body detecting means for detecting the above, a detection result of the first moving body detecting means, and the second moving body detecting means for the always-powered operated portion and the appropriately powered operated portion. As a result of detection, a state transition control means for transitioning a state between a power supply state that selectively receives power and a power non-supply state that does not receive power based on at least one of the operation states of the constantly powered operation unit And have.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, the discrimination control unit is configured to detect the first moving body based on a detection signal from the first moving body detecting means. When it is recognized that the second moving body detecting means is present in one area, the second moving body detecting means is validated, and the moving body is moved to the second area based on a detection signal from the second moving body detecting means. When it is recognized that the power is present, the switching means is controlled to supply power to the power-fed driven member as appropriate.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first or second aspect of the present invention, the constantly-powered operated unit includes an operation system operated unit that receives operation information from a user as the moving body. The discrimination control unit activates the operation system operated unit when the moving object is detected by the first moving body detection unit, and the operation of the operation system operated unit and the second moving body detection unit In combination with a moving body detection signal, the switching timing of the switching means is controlled.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first moving body detection means is configured so that the moving body is within a predetermined detection area. It is a pyroelectric sensor that outputs different binary signals when it is moving and when it is stationary.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the second moving body detecting means is configured so that the moving body is within a predetermined detection area. It is a reflective sensor that outputs a binary signal that differs depending on whether or not it exists.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to any one of the second to sixth aspects, the power non-supply state supplies power to the constantly powered operation unit and the discrimination control unit. Mode, and the power supply state is a warm-up mode, which is a preparation stage for starting up the operated part from the sleep mode, and supplies power to the constantly-powered operated part lower than normal. A standby mode to be performed, and a running mode to supply the steady-state power to the constantly powered operation part.

  The invention according to an eighth aspect includes the power supply control device according to any one of the first to seventh aspects, wherein the constantly powered operation unit includes the user interface unit, and the appropriate power supply operation is performed. An image reading unit that reads an image from a document image, an image forming unit that forms an image on recording paper based on image information, and a facsimile communication control that transmits an image to a destination under a predetermined communication procedure The image reading unit, the image forming unit, and the facsimile communication control unit cooperate with each other in response to an operation from the user interface unit or an instruction from a user by receiving external communication. Thus, the image processing apparatus executes the image processing function.

  The invention described in claim 9 is a power supply control program for causing a computer to execute as the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7.

  According to the first and second aspects of the invention, it is possible to reduce unnecessary contact switching operations in the switching means that requires mechanical contact switching that is used for starting up the power supply, as compared with the case without this configuration. it can.

  According to invention of Claim 3, a 1st moving body detection means and a 2nd moving body detection means can be cooperated smoothly, and the switching frequency of a switching means can be reduced.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to appropriately perform the power supply timing to the operated part.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the detection distance can be made longer than that of a reflective sensor or the like.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reliably detect the presence of the moving body as compared with a pyroelectric sensor or the like.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to instruct a transition in units of modes, and for example, it is possible to effectively perform partial power saving.

  According to the invention described in claims 8 and 9, unnecessary contact switching operation in the switching means that requires mechanical contact switching used for power supply startup can be reduced as compared with the case without this configuration. it can.

1 is a connection diagram of a communication network including an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image processing apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for each function of a control system of a main controller and a power supply device according to the present embodiment. 5 is a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus. 1 is a plan view illustrating an image processing apparatus and its periphery according to the present embodiment. It is an electric power supply line wiring diagram concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the monitoring control routine at the time of sleep mode by a human sensor.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment is connected to a network communication network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, two image processing apparatuses 10 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more.

  In addition, a plurality of PCs (personal computers) 21 as information terminal devices are connected to the network communication line network 20. In FIG. 1, two PCs 21 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more. Further, the information terminal device is not limited to the PC 21 and does not need to be wired. That is, it may be a communication network that transmits and receives information wirelessly.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the image processing apparatus 10, for example, when data is transferred from the PC 21 to the image processing apparatus 10 remotely to perform an image formation (print) instruction operation, or a user (user) May stand in front of the image processing apparatus 10 and instruct various processes such as copying (copying), scanning (image reading), and facsimile transmission / reception by various operations.

  FIG. 2 shows an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment. The image processing apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 240 that forms an image on recording paper, an image reading unit 238 that reads an original image, and a facsimile communication control circuit 236. The image processing apparatus 10 includes a main controller 200, and controls the image forming unit 240, the image reading unit 238, and the facsimile communication control circuit 236 to temporarily store image data of a document image read by the image reading unit 238. The stored image data or the read image data is sent to the image forming unit 240 or the facsimile communication control circuit 236.

  A network communication line network 20 such as the Internet is connected to the main controller 200, and a telephone line network 22 is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 236. For example, the main controller 200 is connected to a host computer via the network communication line network 20 and receives image data or performs facsimile reception and facsimile transmission using the telephone line network 22 via the facsimile communication control circuit 236. Has a role to play.

  The image reading unit 238 receives a document table for positioning a document, a scan drive system that scans an image of the document placed on the document table and irradiates light, and light reflected or transmitted by scanning of the scan drive system. And a photoelectric conversion element such as a CCD for converting into an electrical signal.

  The image forming unit 240 includes a photoconductor. Around the photoconductor, a charging device that uniformly charges the photoconductor, a scanning exposure unit that scans a light beam based on image data, and the scanning exposure unit. An image developing unit that develops the electrostatic latent image formed by scanning exposure, a transfer unit that transfers the developed image on the photoreceptor to a recording sheet, and a surface of the photoreceptor after the transfer are cleaned. And a cleaning unit. Further, a fixing unit (FUSER) for fixing the image on the recording sheet after transfer is provided on the recording sheet conveyance path.

  In the image processing apparatus 10, an outlet 245 is attached to the tip of the input power supply line 244. By inserting the outlet 245 into the wiring plate 243 of the commercial power supply 242 wired up to the wall surface W, the image processing apparatus 10 The power supply is received from the commercial power source 242.

(Control system hardware configuration)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the hardware configuration of the control system of the image processing apparatus 10.

  The network line network 20 is connected to the main controller 200. A facsimile communication control circuit 236, an image reading unit 238, an image forming unit 240, and a UI touch panel 216 are connected to the main controller 200 via buses 33A to 33D such as a data bus and a control bus, respectively. In other words, the main controller 200 is the main body, and each processing unit of the image processing apparatus 10 is controlled. Note that a UI touch panel backlight 216BL is attached to the UI tile panel 216.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a power supply device 202, and is connected to the main controller 200 via a bus 33E. The power supply device 202 is supplied with power from the commercial power supply 242. The power supply device 202 includes power supply lines 35 </ b> A to 35 </ b> D that supply power independently to the main controller 200, the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, the image forming unit 240, and the UI touch panel 216. Yes. For this reason, the main controller 200 individually supplies power to each processing unit (device) (power supply mode) or shuts off the power supply (sleep mode) to enable so-called partial power saving control. In FIG. 3, since the buses 33A to 33D for exchanging signals and the power supply lines 35A to 35D are mixed, in the following description using FIG. 3 (and FIG. 4), the buses 33A to 33D are described. The power supply lines 35A to 35D will be described later (see FIG. 7).

  In addition, two first human sensors 28 and a second human sensor 30 are connected to the main controller 200 to monitor the presence or absence of people around the image processing apparatus 10. The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 will be described later.

(Functional block diagram with a partial power-saving configuration)
FIG. 4 illustrates a processing unit (sometimes referred to as “device”, “module”, and the like) controlled by the main controller 200, and a power source 202 for supplying power to the main controller 200 and each device. It is a schematic block diagram which made the line a main body. In the present embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 can supply or not supply power in units of processing units (partial power saving).

[Main controller 200]
As shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 200 includes a CPU 204, a RAM 206, a ROM 208, an I / O (input / output unit) 210, and a bus 212 such as a data bus and a control bus for connecting them. A UI touch panel 216 is connected to the I / O 210 via a UI control circuit 214. A hard disk (HDD) 218 is connected to the I / O 210. The functions of the main controller 200 are realized by the CPU 204 operating based on programs recorded in the ROM 208, the hard disk 218, and the like. Note that the image processing function may be realized by installing the program from a recording medium (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.) storing the program and operating the CPU 204 based on the program.

  A timer circuit 220 and a communication line I / F 222 are connected to the I / O 210. Further, the I / O 210 is connected to each device of a facsimile communication control circuit (modem) 236, an image reading unit 238, and an image forming unit 240.

  The timer circuit 220 measures the initial set time as an opportunity to put the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 into a power saving state (power supply non-supply state). .

  The main controller 200 and each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are supplied with power from the power supply device 202 (see the dotted line in FIG. 4). In FIG. 4, the power supply line is indicated by a single line (dotted line), but it is actually a plurality of lines.

[Power supply device 202]
As shown in FIG. 4, the input power supply line 244 drawn from the commercial power supply 242 is connected to the main switch 246. When the main switch 246 is turned on, power can be supplied to the first power supply unit 248 and the second power supply unit 250. The first power supply unit 248 functions as a constant power supply converter, and the second power supply unit 250 functions as a main converter that selectively and appropriately controls power supply to each device.

  The first power supply unit 248 includes a control power generation unit 248A and is connected to the power supply control circuit 252 of the main controller 200. The power supply control circuit 252 supplies power to the main controller 200 and is connected to the I / O 210. According to the control program of the main controller 200, each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240). Switching control for conducting / non-conducting the power supply line to) is performed.

  On the other hand, the power supply line 254 connected to the second power supply unit 250 has a first sub power switch 256 (hereinafter referred to as “SW-1”) that switches between energization and non-energization by contact or non-contact operation of a mechanical contact. In some cases). The SW-1 is controlled by the power supply control circuit 252 so that the contacts are switched. In other words, a mechanical switch is applied to SW-1 because it consumes less power when the switch is off than when an electronic switch is used, and power loss when the switch is on.

  The second power supply unit 250 includes a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1). The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) is a power supply mainly used for a motor or the like.

  The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) of the second power supply unit 250 are selectively supplied with an image reading unit power supply unit 258, an image forming unit power supply unit 260, and a facsimile communication control circuit power supply. 264 and a UI touch panel power supply unit 266.

  The image reading unit power supply unit 258 uses the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as an input source, and the image reading unit 238 via a second sub power switch 268 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-2”). It is connected to the.

  The image forming unit power supply unit 260 uses a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources, and a third sub power switch 270 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-3”). And connected to the image forming unit 240.

  The facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 264 may be referred to as a fifth sub power switch 274 (hereinafter “SW-5”) with the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources. ) Is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 236.

  The UI touch panel power supply unit 266 uses a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) and a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as input sources and a sixth sub power switch 276 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-6”). Via the UI touch panel 216.

  Similarly to the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fifth sub power switch 274, and the sixth sub power switch 276 are the main controller 200. On / off control is performed based on the power supply selection signal from the power supply control circuit 252. Although not shown, the switches and wirings to which the 24V power supply unit 250H and the 5V power supply unit 250L are supplied are composed of two systems. In addition, the power switches 268 to 276 may be arranged not in the power supply apparatus 202 but in each device to which power is supplied.

  In the above configuration, power is supplied to select each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) for each function, and power is not supplied to devices unnecessary for the instructed function. Minimal power is required.

  FIG. 7 is a wiring diagram specialized for power supply lines to the devices and the like in the power supply apparatus 202. In other words, although the signal transmission / reception relationship is omitted in FIG. 7, the wiring structure is the wiring described in FIGS. 3 and 4, and therefore the detailed wiring structure is omitted. The characteristic part in this Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the first power supply unit 248 of the power supply device 202 keeps the power supply control circuit 252 energized.

  The power supply control circuit 252 constantly supplies power to the power saving monitoring control unit 24. Thereby, for example, even when power is not supplied to the main controller 200 (sleep mode), power is supplied to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24, which functions as a discrimination control unit.

  The power saving monitoring control unit 24 supplies power to the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30, and the power saving cancel button 26. The power supply timing is monitored during power saving. It depends on the control of the control unit 24.

  Further, the power saving monitoring control unit 24 supplies power to the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the UI control circuit 214. These are those that may accept external input signals such as facsimile reception and server print even during the sleep mode.

  Further, the second power supply unit 250 of the power supply device 202 selectively supplies power to the UI touch panel backlight 216BL, the IC card reader 217, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240. The power supply to each depends on the power supply control circuit 252.

(Supervisory control)
Here, the main controller 200 of the present embodiment may partially stop its function so as to achieve the minimum necessary power consumption. Alternatively, the power supply may be stopped including most of the main controller 200. These may be collectively referred to as “sleep mode (power saving mode)”.

  The sleep mode can be shifted, for example, by starting a timer when image processing is completed. That is, the power supply is stopped by counting a predetermined time after the timer is started. If there is any operation (hard key operation, etc.) before the predetermined time elapses, the timer count to the sleep mode is naturally canceled and the timer is started from the end of the next image processing.

  On the other hand, during the sleep mode, the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 is connected to the I / O 210 as an element that constantly receives power. The power-saving monitoring control unit 24 can be configured by, for example, an ASIC, which is called an ASIC, stores an operation program by itself and is processed by the operation program, an IC chip including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. .

  By the way, in the monitoring during power saving, for example, a print request is received from the communication line detection unit or a FAX reception request is received from the FAX line detection unit. In the unit 24, the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fifth sub power switch 274, and the sixth sub power supply are connected via the power supply control circuit 252. It is assumed that power is supplied by controlling the switch 276.

  Further, a power saving cancel button 26 is connected to the I / O 210 of the main controller 200, and the user can cancel power saving by operating the power saving cancel button 26 during power saving.

  Here, in order to monitor in the sleep mode, it is preferable to supply the necessary minimum power to the power saving cancel button 26 and each detection unit during power saving in addition to the power saving monitoring control unit 24. That is, even in the sleep mode in which the power is not supplied, there is a case where the power is not more than a predetermined power (for example, 0.5 W or less) and is supplied with the power necessary for determining whether to supply power. is there.

  In addition, in a specific period of the sleep mode (awake mode (awk) shown in FIG. 5), the minimum necessary power supply mainly including an input system such as the UI touch panel 216 and the IC card reader 217 is included.

  By the way, when the user stands in front of the image processing apparatus 10 in the sleep mode and then operates the power saving cancel button 26 to restart the power supply, it may take time until the image processing apparatus 10 starts up. .

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are installed in the power saving monitoring control unit 24, and before the user presses the power saving cancel button in the sleep mode. It was detected by a human sensor and power supply was restarted early so that users could use it quickly. Although the power saving cancel button 26, the first human sensor 28, and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, all the monitoring is performed only by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It is also possible to perform.

  The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 include detection units 28A and 30A and circuit board units 28B and 30B. The circuit board units 28B and 30B are detected by the detection units 28A and 30A. Adjust the sensitivity of generated signals and generate output signals.

  The first human sensor 28 is “human feeling”, but this is a proper noun in accordance with the present embodiment, and it is sufficient that at least a person can sense (detect), in other words, other than human. It also includes sensing (detection) of moving objects. Therefore, in the following, the detection target of the human sensor may be referred to as “person”, but in the future, a robot or the like that executes on behalf of a person is also within the detection target range. On the other hand, when there is a special sensor that can be identified and identified as a person, the special sensor can be applied.

  The specification of the first human sensor 28 is to detect the movement of a person around the image processing apparatus 10. In this case, an infrared sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element is representative (pyroelectric sensor). In the present embodiment, a pyroelectric sensor is applied as the first human sensor 28.

  The greatest feature of the sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element applied to the first human sensor 28 is that the detection area is wide. Further, in order to sense the movement of a person, the presence of the person is not detected if the person is stationary within the detection region. For example, when a high-level signal is output when a person moves, the signal becomes a low-level signal when a person within the detection range stops.

  On the other hand, the specification of the second human sensor 30 is applied to detect the presence / absence (presence / absence) of a person. The sensor applied to the second human sensor 30 is typically a reflective sensor having a light projecting part and a light receiving part (reflective sensor). Note that the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit may be separated.

  The greatest feature of the reflective sensor or the like applied to the second human sensor 30 is that the presence or absence of a person is reliably detected by blocking / not blocking light entering the light receiving unit. In addition, since the amount of light incident on the light receiving unit is limited by the amount of light projected from the light projecting unit, a relatively short distance is the detection region.

  As the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 can be used as long as the following functions can be achieved. The invention is not limited to pyroelectric sensors or reflective sensors.

  The application form of the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 configured as described above needs to be set according to the state (mode) of the image processing apparatus 10.

  FIG. 5 is a timing chart showing each mode state and events that trigger the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus 10.

  If the image processing apparatus 10 is not processed, the operation state is the sleep mode, and in this embodiment, power is supplied only to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24.

  Here, when there is a start timing (detection of the start trigger or operation input (key input) of the operation unit), the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  The startup trigger includes a signal, information, and the like based on detection results by the power saving cancellation operation by the operator, the first human sensor 28, and the second human sensor 30.

  In the warm-up mode, the image processing apparatus 10 is brought into a processable state quickly, so that the maximum power consumption in each mode is achieved. For example, by using an IH heater as a heater in the fixing unit, a halogen lamp is used. The warm-up mode time is relatively shorter than the heater used.

  When the warm-up operation in the warm-up mode is completed, the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the standby mode.

  The standby mode is literally a “preparation is complete in preparation” mode, and the image processing apparatus 10 is ready to execute an image processing operation.

  For this reason, when there is a job execution operation as a key input, the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the running mode, and image processing based on the instructed job is executed.

  When the image processing is completed (when a plurality of continuous jobs are waiting, when all the continuous jobs are completed), the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the standby mode. If there is a job execution instruction during the standby mode, the mode transits to the running mode again, and when the falling trigger is detected or a predetermined time elapses, the mode transits to the sleep mode.

  Note that the falling trigger includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30.

  Further, the mode state transitions in the actual operation of the image processing apparatus 10 do not all proceed in time series as shown in this timing chart. For example, the processing may be stopped in the standby mode after the warm-up mode and the mode may be shifted to the sleep mode.

  Next, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 10 transits between the sleep mode, the warm-up mode, and the running mode, and the power supply amount is different for each mode.

  In the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, when a predetermined condition is met, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the sleep mode. In this sleep mode, power is supplied not only to the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 but also to the main controller 200 excluding the power saving monitoring control unit 24 and the UI touch panel 216. Cut off. In this case, it is preferable that the function of the power saving cancel button 26 connected to the main controller 200 is also stopped. For this reason, when the image processing apparatus 10 is viewed from the periphery, the state is almost the same as the state where the main power switch is turned off. That is, it is possible to confirm from the surroundings that the sleep mode is being executed reliably (realization of “visualization”).

  Here, in the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are applied, and the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are used in the image processing apparatus 10. Control for reducing power consumption is executed as a whole of the image processing apparatus 10 by adapting to the operation state (each mode).

  In the first human sensor 28, an area wider than the detection area of the second human sensor 30 around the image processing apparatus 10 is set as a detection area (hereinafter referred to as “first area F”). For example, the detection area of the first human sensor 28 is about 2 to 3 m as a guide, although it depends on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed (the first area F (far in FIG. 6 )reference).

  On the other hand, in the second human sensor 30, a region narrower than the detection region (first region F) of the first human sensor 28 is set as a detection region (hereinafter referred to as "second region N"). . For example, the detection area of the second human sensor 30 is a range in which the UI touch panel 216 and hard keys of the image processing apparatus 10 can be operated, and is about 0 to 0.5 m as a guide (the second area in FIG. 6). Area N (near)).

  The specification of the first human sensor 28 is to detect a person's movement, and an infrared sensor using a pyroelectric effect of a pyroelectric element is representative.

  The greatest feature of the first human sensor 28 is that the detection area is wide (the above-mentioned 2-3 m or more is possible). Further, in order to sense the movement of a person, the presence of the person is not detected if the person is stationary within the detection region. For example, when a high-level signal is output when a person moves, the signal becomes a low-level signal when a person within the detection range stops.

  “Still” in the present embodiment naturally includes complete stillness like a still image taken with a still camera or the like, but includes, for example, that a person stops in front of the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of operation. . Accordingly, a case where the movement of a minute movement (such as movement accompanying breathing) in a predetermined range, a limb, a neck, or the like is set as a stationary category.

  However, if a person performs a stretching exercise or the like in front of the image processing apparatus 10 while waiting for processing such as image formation or image reading, the human sensor 28 may detect the presence of the person. .

  Accordingly, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is not adjusted by adjusting the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28, but the sensitivity is adjusted relatively roughly and standardly. You may make it depend on a state. That is, when the first human sensor 28 outputs one of the binary signals (for example, a high level signal), it indicates that the person is moving, and the second first human sensor. A case where a person exists in the 28 detection regions and another one of the binary signals (for example, a low level signal) is output may be set to be stationary.

  The specification of the second human sensor 30 is to detect the presence or absence (presence / absence) of a person, and is typically a reflective sensor having a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit. Note that the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit may be separated.

  The greatest feature of the second human sensor 30 is that the presence / absence of a person is reliably detected by blocking / not blocking light entering the light receiving unit. In addition, since the amount of light incident on the light receiving unit is limited by the amount of light projected from the light projecting unit, a relatively short distance is the detection region (about 0 to 0.5 m).

  Here, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 mounted on the image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment are connected to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 as described above. The detection signal is input to the power saving monitoring control unit 24.

  By the way, the relationship between the person (moving body) and the image processing apparatus 10 is roughly divided into three forms. In the first form, the person approaches the image processing apparatus 10 to an operable position for the purpose of use. Form (see A-line arrow trend (A pattern) in FIG. 6), the second form is a form in which a person approaches the operable position, although the processing device is not intended for use (line B in FIG. 6) The third form of the visual trend (see pattern B) is close to the distance at which the person may not move to the operable position of the processing apparatus, but may shift to the first form or the second form. Form (Refer to the trend (C pattern) of the arrow C in FIG. 6).

  In the power saving monitoring control unit 24, first, based on the above three types of forms based on the detection signal of the first human sensor 28, first, the UI human touch panel 216 in the main controller 200, Power supply to an input system such as a hard key for instructing copy execution including the power saving cancel button 26 is executed. This state may still be defined as the sleep mode, or may be defined as the awake mode “awk” (wake-up mode) because the power supply amount increases more than the power supply of the power saving monitoring control unit 24 alone. (Refer to parentheses [] in the sleep mode range in the transition diagram of FIG. 5).

  Thereafter, power is supplied to a device required for the function instructed by the user detection by the second human sensor 30 or an operation instruction by the UI touch panel 216 or a hard key.

  By the way, even if the result is the C pattern of FIG. 6 among the movement forms of the moving body, when entering the first area F, at least the awake mode is started to ensure convenience. Or, there is a case where it is started to the standby mode. This startup requires an operation of switching the contact of the first sub power switch (SW-1) 256 in order to activate the second power supply unit 250.

  Since the first sub power switch 256 is a so-called mechanical switch, when the frequency of the C pattern or the B pattern is higher than the frequency of the A pattern, this is a useless switching operation. Furthermore, as long as it is a mechanical switch, it has a shorter life than an electronic switch element, so it is preferable to avoid unnecessary switching operations as much as possible.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are provided on the first power supply unit 248, that is, the constant power supply converter (first power supply unit 248) side. The first sub-power supply for starting up the second power supply unit 250, that is, the main converter side by the user discrimination control during the sleep mode by the cooperation of the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. The switching operation of the switch (SW-1) 256 is minimized.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a sleep mode monitoring control routine by the human sensor according to the present embodiment.

  In step 100, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the first human sensor 28. If the determination is negative, this routine ends. After the return, other control is not performed (or hardly performed) during the sleep mode, and the process immediately returns to step 100 in FIG.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 100, the process proceeds to step 102, the second human sensor 30 is activated (detection signal is valid), and then the process proceeds to step 104, where the UI control circuit 214 is activated. The process proceeds to step 106.

  In step 106, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) has been detected by the second human sensor 30, and if a negative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 108 to determine whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. Is judged. The time in this step 108 is whether or not the moving body enters the region F and does not enter the region N but goes out of the region F (pattern C in FIG. 6). It is a time to discriminate between 5 seconds and 10 seconds, although it depends on the installation location of the image processing apparatus 10. It is not limited to this time, but may be determined from the viewpoint of trade-off between convenience and energy saving.

  If a negative determination is made in step 108, the process returns to step 106, and steps 106 and 108 are repeated. Here, when an affirmative determination is made at step 108, the routine proceeds to step 118. Steps 118 and after will be described later.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 106, the process proceeds to step 110, the contact of the first sub power switch 256 (SW-1) is switched to the contact side, and the process proceeds to step 112.

  In step 112, a start-up trigger is output, an instruction is given to make a transition from the sleep mode to the standby mode via the warm-up mode, and the process proceeds to step 114.

  In step 114, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) has been detected by the second human sensor 30, and if a negative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 116 to determine whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. Is judged. The time in this step 116 is the time for determining whether or not the moving body enters the region N and stops in this region N (A pattern in FIG. 6), as shown in FIG. About 5 seconds is preferable. It is not limited to this time, but may be determined from the viewpoint of trade-off between convenience and energy saving.

  If a negative determination is made in step 116, the process returns to step 114, and steps 114 and 116 are repeated. Here, when an affirmative determination is made at step 116, the routine proceeds to step 118.

  In step 118, the activation of the second human sensor 30 is canceled (the signal is invalidated), and then the routine proceeds to step 120, where the activation of the UI control circuit 214 is canceled, and this routine ends.

  Further, when an affirmative determination is made at step 114, the routine proceeds to step 120, where it is determined whether or not an operation of the UI tile panel or the like has been performed. If a negative determination is made in step 120, the routine proceeds to step 122, where it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. The time in step 122 is a time for determining whether or not the user stops in front of the apparatus and performs the operation, and is preferably around 30 seconds including the operation waiting time. It is not limited to this time, but may be determined from the viewpoint of trade-off between convenience and energy saving. Also, the time may be divided, and a message prompting an operation may be displayed on the display unit of the UI touch panel, or an alarm sound may be generated. For example, a message is displayed after 10 seconds, an alarm sound is sounded after 20 seconds, and a message indicating that the mode is changed to the sleep mode is displayed on the display unit of the UI touch panel 216 after 25 seconds.

  If the determination in step 120 is affirmative, the routine proceeds to step 124 to instruct execution of the instructed operation, and this routine ends.

  According to the present embodiment, the first sub power switch 256 (SW-1) is a mechanical switch and has a shorter life than the electronic switching element. Therefore, the contact switching operation is reduced by connecting the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 to the first power supply unit 248 which is a constant power supply converter. That is, the detection of each moving body by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 is linked to detect a so-called moving body that enters the region F but does not enter the region N. The unnecessary contact switching operation of the first sub power switch 256 (SW-1) is avoided.

W Wall surface 10 Image processing device 20 Network communication network 21 PC
22 Telephone Network 24 Power Saving Monitoring Control Unit 26 Power Saving Cancel Button 28 Human Sensor 200 Main Controller 204 CPU
206 RAM
208 ROM
210 I / O (input / output unit)
212 Bus 214 UI Control Circuit 216 UI Touch Panel 218 Hard Disk 220 Timer Circuit 222 Communication Line I / F
236 Facsimile communication control circuit 238 Image reading unit 240 Image forming unit 242 Commercial power supply 243 Wiring plate 244 Input power supply line 245 Outlet 246 Main switch 248 First power supply unit 250 Second power supply unit 248A Control power generation unit 252 Power supply control Circuit (Power supply control means)
254 Power line 256 First sub power switch ("SW-1")
250H 24V power supply (LVPS2)
250L 5V power supply (LVPS1)
258 Image reading unit power supply unit 260 Image forming unit power supply unit 264 Facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 266 UI touch panel power supply unit 268 Second sub power switch (“SW-2”)
270 Third sub power switch ("SW-3")
274 Fifth sub power switch ("SW-5")
276 Sixth sub power switch ("SW-6")

Claims (9)

It is determined whether or not power is always supplied to the constantly-powered operated part that is always supplied with power, operates appropriately to receive power as needed, and appropriately power-operated. A power supply unit that is a source of power necessary for each operation of the discrimination control unit;
Switching means that is provided between the power supply unit and the appropriately powered operation unit, and switches whether or not to supply power to the appropriately powered operation unit by a switching operation involving contact or non-contact of a mechanical contact. When,
A first moving body detecting means connected to the discrimination control unit for detecting whether or not a moving body including a user is present in a first area set in advance;
Connected to the discrimination control unit and activated when the discrimination control unit receives a signal indicating the presence of the moving body from the first moving body detection unit, and the contact switching direction of the switching unit in the discrimination control unit As the information for determining, the second moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the moving body is present in a second area narrower than the first area and close to the operated part When,
A power supply control device. It is determined whether or not power is always supplied to the constantly-powered operated part that is always supplied with power, operates appropriately to receive power as needed, and appropriately power-operated. A power supply unit that is a source of power necessary for each operation of the discrimination control unit;
Switching means that is provided between the power supply unit and the appropriately powered operation unit, and switches whether or not to supply power to the appropriately powered operation unit by a switching operation involving contact or non-contact of a mechanical contact. When,
A first moving body detecting means connected to the discrimination control unit for detecting whether or not a moving body including a user is present in a first area set in advance;
Connected to the discrimination control unit and activated when the discrimination control unit receives a signal indicating the presence of the moving body from the first moving body detection unit, and the contact switching direction of the switching unit in the discrimination control unit As the information for determining, the second moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the moving body is present in a second area narrower than the first area and close to the operated part When,
The detection result of the first moving body detection means, the detection result of the second moving body detection means, and the operating state of the constantly powered operation section for the constantly powered operation section and the appropriate feeding operation section as appropriate. Based on at least one of the following, state transition control means for transitioning between a power supply state that selectively receives power and a power non-supply state that does not receive power;
A power supply control device. The discrimination control unit
Based on the detection signal from the first moving body detecting means, at the time when it is recognized that the moving body exists in the first area, the second moving body detecting means is enabled,
Based on the detection signal from the second moving body detection means, when it is recognized that the moving body is present in the second region, the switching means is controlled to appropriately supply the power supply operated member. The power supply control device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein power is supplied.   The constantly powered operation unit includes an operation system operated unit that receives operation information from a user who is the moving body, and the determination control unit is configured to detect the operation system when the moving body is detected by the first moving body detection unit. The operation unit is activated, and the operation of the operation system operated unit and the moving body detection signal from the second moving body detection unit are used together to control the timing of switching the switching unit. The power supply control device according to claim 1 or 2.   The first moving body detection means is a pyroelectric sensor that outputs a binary signal that is different between when the moving body is moving and when it is stationary within a predetermined detection area. The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4.   6. The reflection type sensor according to claim 1, wherein the second moving body detection means is a reflective sensor that outputs a binary signal that varies depending on whether or not the moving body exists within a predetermined detection area. The power supply control device according to claim 1.   The power non-supply state includes a sleep mode for supplying power to the constantly powered operation unit and the discrimination control unit, and the power supply state is a preparation stage for starting the operation unit from the sleep mode. There is provided a warm-up mode, a standby mode in which power is supplied to the constantly-powered operated part by lowering the steady-state power, and a running mode in which power is supplied to the constantly-powered operated part in the steady state. The power supply control device according to any one of claims 2 to 6.   The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the constantly powered operation unit includes the user interface unit, and the appropriately powered operation unit reads an image from a document image. It includes at least one of an image reading unit, an image forming unit that forms an image on recording paper based on image information, and a facsimile communication control unit that transmits an image to a destination under a predetermined communication procedure. The image reading unit, the image forming unit, and the facsimile communication control unit execute the image processing function in cooperation with each other in response to an operation from the user interface unit or an instruction from a user by accepting external communication. An image processing apparatus.   The power supply control program which makes a computer perform as a power supply control apparatus in any one of the said Claims 1-7.