JP2012203131A - Power supply control device, image processing device, and power supply control program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To change the state from non-power-supply state to power supply state in response to user operation without delay.SOLUTION: When sleep mode is entered, power supplied from a commercial power supply 242 is temporarily cut off to use power from a power storage part 241 for monitoring a power-saving monitoring control part 24. The commercial power to be consumed during the sleep mode is "0". When a human sensor 28 detects a moving body (user), the commercial power supply 242 supplies power, and a determination is made whether to enter the standby mode by supplying power to devices or to enter the sleep mode again according to the state of the moving body, thereby reducing unnecessary power consumption.

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, the human body detection sensor that needs to be driven in the energy saving mode is time-division driven for the purpose of making the necessary minimum power, and if a human body is detected, the period of time division is shortened, etc. It describes that the average power of the human body detection sensor by time division drive is saved.

  Further, in Patent Document 2, a human body detection sensor detects that a person has approached the front of the device, returns only the operation controller from the power saving mode to the normal mode, and the person is in front of the device. Describes that the liquid crystal display unit is turned on and the engine controller is also returned to the normal state when the operation continues for a certain time or longer.

JP 2002-071833 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 09-166943

  An object of the present invention is to obtain a power supply control device, an image processing device, and a power supply control program capable of making a transition from a power non-supply state to a power supply state without delay with respect to a user's operation. .

  The invention according to claim 1 is a power supply source of an operated part that operates by receiving power supply, and the first power supply part that uses commercial power as a main supply source and the first power supply part A second power supply unit that is provided separately and supplies power necessary for the operation of the discrimination control unit for discriminating whether or not to supply power from the first power supply unit to the operated unit; and the discrimination control Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the unit, and at least the operated unit and the discrimination control unit supply power from the first power supply unit. The mobile unit including the user who uses the operated part and is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit during a period when the mobile unit is not received is within a preset area. Moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the power is present in the power source and power from the second power supply unit When the mobile body is detected by the moving body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control section is changed from the second power supply section to the first power supply section. Switching means for switching to.

  The invention according to claim 2 is a power supply source of an operated part that operates by receiving power supply, and the first power supply part that uses commercial power as a main supply source and the first power supply part A second power supply unit that is provided separately and supplies power necessary for the operation of the discrimination control unit for discriminating whether or not to supply power from the first power supply unit to the operated unit; and the discrimination control Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the unit, and at least the operated unit and the discrimination control unit supply power from the first power supply unit. The mobile unit including the user who uses the operated part and is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit during a period when the mobile unit is not received is within a preset area. Moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the power is present in the power source and power from the second power supply unit When the mobile body is detected by the moving body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control section is changed from the second power supply section to the first power supply section. A switching means for switching to a state, a state transition control means for transitioning a state between a power supply state receiving power and a power non-supply state not receiving power for the operated part, and the first by the switching means After the switching to the power supply unit, when the moving body is detected for a predetermined period by the moving body detecting means, the state transition control means is controlled to bring the operated part into the power supply state. Instruction means for instructing to make a transition.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect of the present invention, the operated unit that receives power supply from the first power supply unit is instructed by the user by instructing transition by the instruction unit. An operation system operated unit for operating and receiving instructions, and an operation of the operation system operated unit to supply power from the first power supply unit to an operated unit other than the operation system operated unit. It can be an opportunity.

  The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the moving body detecting means moves the moving body within a predetermined detection region. It is a pyroelectric sensor that outputs different binary signals depending on when it is at rest and when it is stationary.

  The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the moving body detection means is configured so that the moving body exists within a predetermined detection area. This is a reflective sensor that outputs binary signals that differ depending on whether or not.

  The invention according to claim 6 is a power supply source of the operated part that operates by receiving power supply, and the first power supply part that uses commercial power as a main supply source and the first power supply part include: A second power supply unit that is provided separately and supplies power necessary for the operation of the discrimination control unit for discriminating whether or not to supply power from the first power supply unit to the operated unit; and the discrimination control Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the unit, and at least the operated unit and the discrimination control unit supply power from the first power supply unit. The mobile unit including the user who uses the operated part and is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit during a period when the mobile unit is not received is within a preset area. A first moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not the vehicle is moving, and the second power supply unit When the mobile body is detected by the mobile body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control section is controlled from the second power source section to the first power source. A switching unit that switches to a power supply unit, and a moving body that includes a user who uses the operated unit and that is controlled by the discrimination control unit after being switched to the first power supply unit by the switching unit is set in advance. A second moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not it exists in the area, and a state between a power supply state that receives power and a power non-supply state that does not receive power for the operated part. When the presence of the moving body is detected continuously for a predetermined period by the state transition control means for transition and the second moving body detection means, the state transition control means is controlled to Operating part is supplied with power It has an instruction means for instructing a so as to transition to.

  The invention according to claim 7 is the invention according to claim 6, wherein the first moving body detecting means is stationary when the moving body is moving within a predetermined detection area. A second pyroelectric sensor that outputs a binary signal that differs depending on whether the moving body is present in a predetermined detection area. It is a reflective sensor that outputs a value signal.

  The invention according to claim 8 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 7, wherein the power non-supply state includes a sleep mode in which power is supplied only to the determination control unit, and A warm-up mode in which the power supply state is a preparatory stage for starting up the operated part from the sleep mode, a standby mode in which power is supplied to the operated part lower than in a normal state, A running mode for supplying the power at the steady state to the operating unit is provided, and the transition instruction by the power supply transition instructing unit instructs the transition from the sleep mode to the standby mode through the warm-up mode.

  A ninth aspect of the invention includes the power supply control device according to any one of the first to eighth aspects, wherein the operated unit is a user interface unit serving as the operation system operated unit, a document. At least one of an image reading unit that reads an image from an image, an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording sheet based on image information, and a facsimile communication control unit that transmits an image to a transmission 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 instruction from a user through an operation of the user interface unit or an external communication reception. An image processing apparatus that executes an image processing function.

  The invention described in claim 10 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 9.

  According to the first, second, and sixth aspects of the invention, the transition from the non-power supply state to the power supply state can be performed without delay with respect to the user's operation.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the power consumption is reduced as compared with the case where the power is supplied to all the operated parts by supplying the power in preference to the operation system operated part when switching the power. Can do.

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

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the presence of the moving body can be reliably detected as compared with a pyroelectric sensor or the like.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, it is possible to use a sensor in the right place for the right material.

  According to the eighth aspect of the invention, it is possible to issue a transition instruction in units of modes.

  According to the ninth and tenth aspects of the present invention, the transition from the non-power supply state to the power supply state can be performed without delay with respect to the user's operation.

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 a flowchart which shows the monitoring control routine at the time of sleep mode by a human sensor. 10 is a flowchart showing a sleep mode monitoring control routine by a human sensor according to Modification 1. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control system of an image processing apparatus according to a second modification. FIG. 10 is a plan view illustrating an image processing apparatus and its surroundings according to Modification 2. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a sleep mode monitoring control routine by a human sensor according to a second modification.

  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 12 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 an electrostatic latent image formed by scanning exposure, a transfer unit that transfers a visualized image on a photoreceptor to a recording sheet, and a surface of the photoreceptor after transfer And a cleaning unit to perform. A fixing unit for fixing the image on the recording paper after transfer is provided on the recording paper 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.

  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 receives supply from a commercial power supply and supplies power in the sleep mode from either the power supply device 249 (power supply from the commercial power supply 242) or the power storage unit 241 via the power supply selection unit 247. Received supply. 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.

  A human sensor 28 is connected to the main controller 200 to monitor the presence or absence of a person around the image processing apparatus 10. The human sensor 28 will be described later.

(Functional block diagram with a partial power-saving configuration)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation unit controlled by the main controller 200 (sometimes referred to as “processing unit”, “device”, “module”, etc.), a main controller 200, and each device for supplying power. It is a schematic block diagram which mainly made the power line of the power supply device 202 of. 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 includes timing of an initial setting time as a trigger for setting the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 in a power saving state (power supply non-supply state). Is to do.

  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 shown by one line (dotted line), but in reality it is two to three wires.

[Power supply device 202]
As shown in FIG. 4, the 5V output of the power supply unit 249 that is supplied from the commercial power supply 242 is connected to the first contact 247 </ b> A of the power supply selection unit 247. The power storage unit 241 is connected to the second contact 247 </ b> B of the power source selection unit 247. In addition, the common contact 247 </ b> C of the power supply selection unit 247 is connected to the power supply device 202.

  The power source selection unit 247 is configured to perform contact switching by a signal from the power saving monitoring control unit 24 belonging to the main controller 200 described later, and the power from the power source unit 249 or the power storage unit 241 is input. Electric power can be supplied to the first power supply unit 248 through the power supply line 244.

  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, in the second power supply unit 250, a first sub power switch 256 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-1”) is interposed. This SW-1 is controlled to be turned on / off by the power supply control circuit 252.

  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 and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) of the second power supply unit 250 are selectively connected to the image reading unit 258, the image forming unit 260, the facsimile communication control circuit unit 264, and the UI touch panel power supply unit 266. Has been.

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

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

  The facsimile communication control circuit unit 264 uses a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources and a fifth sub power switch 274 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-5”). Via the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the image forming unit 240.

  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.

(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. The unit 24 controls 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, thereby It is premised on supply.

  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 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 human sensor 28 is installed in the power saving monitoring control unit 24, and in the sleep mode, the human sensor detects the power before the user presses the power saving cancel button, and the power is quickly transmitted. The supply was resumed so that users could use it quickly. Although the power saving cancel button 26 and the human sensor 28 are used in combination, it is possible to perform all monitoring by using the human sensor 28 alone.

  Further, the monitoring control by the human sensor 28 means that power is consumed. On the other hand, the power consumption in the “sleep mode” is the minimum necessary, preferably 0. Therefore, in the present embodiment, during the moving body detection control by the human sensor 28 in the sleep mode, the power source selection is performed so that the power is not received from the commercial power source 242 and literally the sleep mode state is “power consumption 0”. In the unit 247, the second contact point is switched to operate with the electric power from the power storage unit 241.

  That is, in the mode transition shown in FIG. 5, the signal from the power saving monitoring control unit 24 of the main controller 200 is connected to the second contact point of the power selection unit 247 by the falling trigger when transitioning from the standby mode to the sleep mode. Switching to the contact 247B was made.

  The human sensor 28 includes a detection unit 28A and a circuit board unit 28B, and the circuit board unit 28B adjusts the sensitivity of the signal detected by the detection unit 28A and generates an output signal.

  It should be noted that the 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, a moving object other than a person. It also includes sensing (detection). 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 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 human sensor 28.

  The greatest feature of the sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element applied to the 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.

  The human sensor 28 is not limited to the pyroelectric sensor as long as the human sensor 28 can achieve the following functions.

  The application form of the human sensor 28 having the above configuration 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. In the present embodiment, the power from the power storage unit 241 is supplied only to the power saving monitoring control unit 24. In other words, the power of the commercial power source 242 is not consumed.

  As the power storage unit 241, a charging device (including a storage battery, a capacitor, and the like) that is charged when dry battery, power from the commercial power supply 242 is supplied, or that is charged by regenerative energy when the image processing apparatus 10 is driven, It is not limited as long as it is other than the electric power from the commercial power source 242 such as a photovoltaic power generator that generates light by receiving light such as light, a device that generates electric power through a chemical reaction, and the like.

  As shown in FIG. 5, when there is a startup trigger (detection of a startup trigger or operation input (key input) of the operation unit such as the UI touch panel 216), the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  The startup trigger includes a power saving cancellation operation by an operator, a signal or information based on a detection result by the human sensor 28, and the like.

  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. Therefore, when the computer goes up from the sleep mode, the mode transitions to the standby mode through the warm-up 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.

  The falling trigger includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the human sensor 28.

  Note that the transition of the mode state in the actual operation in the image processing apparatus 10 does not all proceed in time series as shown in this timing chart. For example, when the process is stopped in the standby mode after the warm-up mode and a state where no instruction is given elapses for a predetermined time, 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 (including the awake 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 equivalent to a state in which the main power switch is completely 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 human sensor 28 is applied, and the start trigger “transition control from the sleep mode to the standby mode via the warm-up mode is performed.

  The human sensor 28 is a detection area (hereinafter referred to as “first area F”) around the image processing apparatus 10. For example, the detection area of the human sensor 28 is approximately 2 to 3 m as a guide, depending on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed (see the first area F (far) in FIG. 6). .

  The specification of the human sensor 28 is to detect the movement of a person, and an infrared sensor using a pyroelectric effect of a pyroelectric element is representative. In this pyroelectric sensor, signals having different binary values are output when the moving body is moving within a predetermined region (during transition) and when it is not moving (during rest). .

  The human sensor 28 is not limited to a pyroelectric sensor, and has a binary value depending on whether or not it exists in a predetermined region regardless of the movement (movement) of the moving body. A reflective sensor that outputs different signals may be used.

  The greatest feature of the human sensor 28 to which the pyroelectric sensor is applied 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. .

  Therefore, the sensitivity of the motion sensor 28 is not adjusted by defining the “still”, but the sensitivity is adjusted relatively roughly and in a standard manner so that the sensitivity depends on the detection state of the motion sensor 28. May be. That is, when the human sensor 28 outputs one of the binary signals (for example, a high level signal), this indicates that the person is moving, and there is a person in the detection area of the human sensor 28. In addition, a case where another one of the binary signals (for example, a low level signal) is output may be set to be stationary.

  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 A pattern, the user stops in front of the image processing apparatus 10 (see black dots in FIG. 6).

  The power saving monitoring control unit 24 includes the above three types based on the detection signal of the human sensor 28. At least when a human (moving body) is detected by the human sensor 28, the power supply source is first connected to the power storage unit 241. To commercial power supply 242. Thereafter, a transition is made to the standby mode in accordance with the situation of the moving body. Note that the instruction to transition to the standby mode may include an input system such as a hard key for instructing copy execution including the power saving cancel button 26.

  Hereinafter, the flow of power supply control (monitoring control routine during sleep mode) from the detection of a person (moving body) by the human sensor 28 to the mode transition instruction will be described according to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step 100, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the second contact 247B, the power storage unit 241 is used as a power supply source, and the process proceeds to step 102. At this time, the power supply control circuit 252 supplies power only to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 of the main controller 200.

  In step 102, it is determined whether or not the moving body (user) has been detected by the human sensor 28. If the determination is negative, this routine ends. During the sleep mode, no other control is executed, and the routine immediately returns to this routine.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 102, the process proceeds to step 104, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the first contact 247A, and the process proceeds to step 106 using the commercial power source 242 as the power supply source.

  In step 106, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the human sensor 28 again.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 106, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the transition to step 108, that is, whether or not the moving object (user) is being continuously detected, and a negative determination is made. In that case, the process returns to step 106 and the above steps (steps 106 and 108) are repeated.

  Here, if a negative determination is made in step 106, it is determined that the current detection is simply passing, etc., the process proceeds to step 110, an instruction is given to shift to the sleep mode, and this routine ends. That is, movements such as the B pattern and C pattern in FIG. 6 belong to this.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step 108, it is determined that a moving object (user) has been detected continuously for a predetermined time, and the process proceeds to step 112 to output a start-up trigger, and after passing through the warm-up mode Instructs to enter standby mode and the routine ends. That is, the movement like the A pattern in FIG. 6 belongs to this.

  According to the present embodiment, when the mode is changed to the sleep mode, the power supply from the commercial power supply 242 is completely cut off, and the power required for monitoring by the power saving monitoring control unit 24 is provided by the power from the power storage unit 241. As a result, the power consumption from the commercial power during the sleep mode is “0”.

  On the other hand, when the moving body (user) is detected by the human sensor 28, the commercial power source 242 is used as a power supply source, and power is supplied to various devices according to the state of the moving body to shift to the standby mode. Since it is determined whether to switch to the sleep mode again, useless power consumption is suppressed.

(Modification 1)
In the present embodiment, when the human sensor 28 detects a person (moving body), first, the power supply source is switched from the power storage unit 241 to the commercial power source 242, and then the standby mode is set according to the state of the moving body. However, prior to that, power may be supplied only to the UI touch panel 216.

  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).

  After that, it is only necessary to determine whether to transition to the sleep mode again or to transition to the warm-up mode based on the operation status by the UI touch panel 216 (or hard key or the like).

  FIG. 8 illustrates a flow of power supply control (monitoring control routine during sleep mode) from human (moving body) detection by the human sensor 28 according to the first modification to a mode transition instruction. In addition, about the same step as FIG. 7, "A" is attached | subjected to the end of the same code | symbol.

  In step 100A, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the second contact 247B, the power storage unit 241 is used as a power supply source, and the process proceeds to step 102A. At this time, the power supply control circuit 252 supplies power only to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 of the main controller 200.

  In step 102A, it is determined whether or not the moving body (user) is detected by the human sensor 28. If the determination is negative, this routine ends. During the sleep mode, no other control is executed, and the routine immediately returns to this routine.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 102A, the process proceeds to step 104A, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the first contact 247A, and the process proceeds to step 106A using the commercial power source 242 as the power supply source.

  In step 106A, it is determined again whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the human sensor 28.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 106A, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the transition to step 108A, that is, whether or not the moving object (user) is being continuously detected, and a negative determination is made. In this case, the process returns to step 106A and the above steps (steps 106A and 108A) are repeated.

  Here, if a negative determination is made in step 106A, it is determined that the current detection is simply passing, etc., the process proceeds to step 110A, an instruction is given to shift to the sleep mode, and this routine ends. That is, movements such as the B pattern and C pattern in FIG. 6 belong to this.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step 108A, it is determined that the moving object (user) has been detected for a predetermined time, and the process proceeds to step 114 to instruct to shift to the awake mode. As shown in FIG. 5, the awake mode is a mode in which power is preferentially supplied to an operation input device such as the UI touch panel 216, and other than the UI touch panel 216, an IC card reader or the like can be cited. It is done.

  In the next step 116, it is determined again whether or not the moving body (user) has been detected by the human sensor 28 during the awake mode. It is determined whether time has elapsed. If a negative determination is made in step 118, the process returns to step 116 and the above steps (steps 116 and 118) are repeated.

  Note that the time of step 118 and the time of step 108A have no causal relationship and may be set respectively.

  For example, since the time of step 108A is immediately after the user enters the detection area of the human sensor 28, if there is an intention to use, it can be predicted that there will be an operation input in a relatively short time. It can be set to less than a second.

  On the other hand, since the time of step 118 is a state where the UI touch panel 216 is standing, it is assumed that the user operates, and a setting of about 1 minute is good.

  Note that the above 30 seconds and 1 minute are merely examples, and are not limited to this setting. However, the longer, the better the convenience, and the shorter, the better the power saving. Therefore, it is preferable to be able to set freely.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 116, the user determines that he / she intends to use it, proceeds to step 120, outputs a start-up trigger, and instructs to enter the standby mode via the warm-up mode. This routine ends.

  If the determination in step 118 is affirmative, it is determined that the mobile object does not intend to use, the process proceeds to step 122, and an instruction is issued to shift to the sleep mode, and this routine ends.

(Modification 2)
In the second modification according to the present embodiment, as shown in FIG. 9, a pyroelectric first human sensor 28 and a reflective second human sensor 30 are used in combination as human sensors. In the point.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the first human sensor 28 has an area larger than the detection area of the second human sensor 30 around the image processing apparatus 10 (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. 10 )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. 10). 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 Modification 2 naturally includes complete stillness such as a still image taken by 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.

  Note that the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is not adjusted by defining the “still”, but the sensitivity is adjusted roughly and standardly, and the detection of the first human sensor 28 is performed. 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 second modification are connected to the monitoring controller 24 during power saving, as described above. A detection signal is input to the power saving monitoring control unit 24.

  The power-saving monitoring control unit 24 determines the transition time from the sleep mode to the standby mode based on the signals from the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30.

  FIG. 11 illustrates a flow of power supply control (monitoring control routine during sleep mode) from the detection of a person (moving body) by the human sensor 28 according to the second modification to the mode transition instruction.

  In step 150, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the second contact 247B, the power storage unit 241 is used as a power supply source, and the process proceeds to step 152. At this time, the power supply control circuit 252 supplies power only to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 of the main controller 200. Further, power is supplied to the first human sensor 28, and no power is supplied to the second human sensor 30.

  In step 152, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the first human sensor 28. If the determination is negative, the routine ends. During the sleep mode, no other control is executed, and the routine immediately returns to this routine.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 152, the process proceeds to step 154, the contact of the power source selection unit 247 is switched to the first contact 247A, and the process proceeds to step 156 using the commercial power source 242 as the power supply source. At this time, electric power is supplied to the second human sensor 30.

  In step 156, it is determined whether the second human sensor 30 has detected a moving body (user).

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 156, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has passed since the transition to step 158, that is, whether or not the moving object (user) is being continuously detected, and a negative determination is made. In that case, the process returns to step 156 and the above steps (steps 156, 158) are repeated.

  Here, if a negative determination is made in step 156, it is determined that the current detection is simply passing, etc., the process proceeds to step 160, and an instruction is given to shift to the sleep mode, and this routine ends.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step 158, it is determined that the moving body (user) has been detected continuously for a predetermined period of time, and the process proceeds to step 162 to output a start-up trigger, through the warm-up mode. Instructs to enter standby mode and the routine ends.

  In Modification 2, as in Modification 1 described above, when the moving object is detected by the first human sensor 28, power is preferentially supplied to the UI touch panel 216, and the image processing apparatus Assuming that a user is present before 10 (continuous detection by the second human sensor 30), when the UI touch panel 216 is operated, the mode is changed to the standby mode, and the user cannot be detected. It is also possible to make a transition to the sleep mode at this point.

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 241 Power storage unit 242 Commercial power supply 243 Wiring plate 244 Input power supply line 245 Outlet 247 Power supply selection unit 248 First power supply unit 248A Control power generation unit 250 Second power supply 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 function power supply unit 260 Image forming function power supply unit 262 Image copying function power supply unit 264 Facsimile reception function power supply unit 266 Facsimile transmission function 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 (10)

A first power supply unit that is a power supply source of an operated unit that operates by receiving power supply, and that uses commercial power as a main supply source;
A second power supply unit that is provided separately from the first power supply unit and that supplies power necessary for the operation of the determination control unit that determines whether to supply power to the operated unit from the first power supply unit; Power supply section of
Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the discrimination control unit;
At least during the period when the operated unit and the discrimination control unit are not supplied with power from the first power supply unit, the connected unit is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit, and A moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not a moving body including a user who uses the operating unit exists in a preset area;
Controlled by the discrimination control unit receiving power from the second power supply unit, and when the moving body is detected by the moving body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control unit is Switching means for switching from a power supply unit to the first power supply unit;
A power supply control device. A first power supply unit that is a power supply source of an operated unit that operates by receiving power supply, and that uses commercial power as a main supply source;
A second power supply unit that is provided separately from the first power supply unit and that supplies power necessary for the operation of the determination control unit that determines whether to supply power to the operated unit from the first power supply unit; Power supply section of
Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the discrimination control unit;
At least during the period when the operated unit and the discrimination control unit are not supplied with power from the first power supply unit, the connected unit is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit, and A moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not a moving body including a user who uses the operating unit exists in a preset area;
Controlled by the discrimination control unit receiving power from the second power supply unit, and when the moving body is detected by the moving body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control unit is Switching means for switching from a power supply unit to the first power supply unit;
State transition control means for making a transition between a power supply state that receives power and a power non-supply state that does not receive power for the operated part;
After the switching to the first power supply unit by the switching means, when the moving body is detected for a predetermined period by the moving body detection means, the state transition control means is controlled to Instruction means for instructing the operating unit to transition to the power supply state;
A power supply control device.   By instructing transition by the instruction means, the operated unit that receives power supply from the first power supply unit is an operation system operated unit that is operated by a user to receive an instruction, and the operation The power supply control apparatus according to claim 2, wherein an operation of the system operated unit can trigger power supply from the first power supply unit to an operated unit other than the operation system operated unit.   2. The pyroelectric sensor that outputs a binary signal that is different between when the moving body is moving and when the moving body is stationary within a predetermined detection area. The power supply control device according to claim 3.   5. The reflection sensor according to claim 1, wherein the moving body detection unit is a reflective sensor that outputs a binary signal that varies depending on whether or not the moving body is present in a predetermined detection region. The power supply control device described. A first power supply unit that is a power supply source of an operated unit that operates by receiving power supply, and that uses commercial power as a main supply source;
A second power supply unit that is provided separately from the first power supply unit and that supplies power necessary for the operation of the determination control unit that determines whether to supply power to the operated unit from the first power supply unit; Power supply section of
Power supply means for selectively supplying power from the first power supply unit or the second power supply unit to the discrimination control unit;
At least during the period when the operated unit and the discrimination control unit are not supplied with power from the first power supply unit, the connected unit is connected to the discrimination control unit that operates by receiving power supply from the second power supply unit, and First moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not a moving body including a user who uses the operating unit is moving within a preset region;
Controlled by the discrimination control unit receiving power from the second power supply unit, and when the moving body is detected by the moving body detection means, the power supply source to the discrimination control unit is Switching means for switching from a power supply unit to the first power supply unit;
After the switching unit switches to the first power supply unit, whether or not a moving body including a user who uses the operated unit and is controlled by the discrimination control unit exists in a preset area. Second moving body detection means for detecting
State transition control means for making a transition between a power supply state that receives power and a power non-supply state that does not receive power for the operated part;
When the presence of the moving body is continuously detected for a predetermined period by the second moving body detecting means, the state transition control means is controlled to shift the operated part to the power supply state. Instructing means to instruct
A power supply control device. The first moving body detection means is a pyroelectric sensor that outputs a binary signal 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 claim 6, wherein the second moving body detection unit is a reflective sensor that outputs a binary signal that varies depending on whether or not the moving body is present in a predetermined detection region. . A warm-up mode in which the non-power supply state includes a sleep mode in which power is supplied only to the determination control unit, and the power supply state is a preparation stage for starting up the operated unit from the sleep mode; It has a standby mode in which power is supplied to the operated part lower than in a normal state, and a running mode in which power is supplied to the operated part in the normal state.
The power supply control device according to any one of claims 2 to 7, wherein the transition instruction by the power supply transition instructing unit instructs the transition from the sleep mode to the standby mode through the warm-up mode.   The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the operated unit is a user interface unit as the operation system operated unit, an image reading unit that reads an image from a document image, Including at least one of 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, Image processing apparatus in which the image processing 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 instruction from a user through an operation of the user interface unit or an external communication reception .   The power supply control program which makes a computer perform as a power supply control apparatus in any one of the said Claims 1-9.