JP2013005292A - Image formation system, image formation device, power supply state changeover method, and power supply state changeover program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To maintain a state in which at least one function can be executable at any one of a plurality of image formation devices.SOLUTION: Each of a plurality of MFPs includes a plurality of units, a job execution part which controls the plurality of units to execute a job, and a changeover part which changes over a power supply state to any one of a normal mode and a power saving mode for each of a plurality of units. The changeover part, in the case where a first condition for changing the normal mode over to the power saving mode is met (YES at S33), references a power supply state of each of a plurality of MFPs, to change the power supply state of a unit over to the power saving mode (YES at S34), among a plurality of units, having been set to the normal mode at least at another one of the plurality of MFPs (S35).

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system, an image forming apparatus, a power supply state switching method, and a power supply state switching program, and in particular, an image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses capable of switching a power supply state, the image forming apparatus, The present invention relates to a power supply state switching method and a power supply state switching program executed in the image forming apparatus.

  In recent years, image forming apparatuses such as printers and multi-function machines installed in offices have been increasingly demanded to save power. A function of automatically transitioning to a power saving mode (sleep state) with low power consumption is provided.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2006-340223 (Patent Document 1) describes a technology for setting a sleep state during a time when the user has not operated in the past based on an operation history. However, although a sleep state is entered when an operation history that has been operated in the past is not stored, the user may actually use it. In this case, the job may be executed until the sleep state is canceled. There was a problem that I couldn't.
JP 2006-340223 A

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and one object of the present invention is to maintain a state in which all of at least one function can be executed in any of a plurality of image forming apparatuses. Is to provide an image forming system capable of

  Another object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus capable of maintaining a state in which all of at least one function can be executed by either the self apparatus or at least one other image forming apparatus. .

  Still another object of the present invention is to provide a power supply state switching method capable of maintaining a state where all of at least one function can be executed in any of the self apparatus and at least one other image forming apparatus. That is.

  Still another object of the present invention is to provide a power supply state switching program capable of maintaining a state in which all of at least one function can be executed in any of the self apparatus and at least one other image forming apparatus. That is.

  In order to achieve the above-described object, according to one aspect of the present invention, an image forming system is an image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses has at least one function. At least one function execution unit to be executed, at least one function execution unit to control the job execution unit to execute a job, and at least one function execution unit to save less power than the normal mode and the normal mode. Switching means for switching the power supply state to any one of the power modes, and the switching means supplies power to each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. Referring to the status, at least one function execution unit that is passed by at least one other of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Switch the power supply state of the function executing unit that is set to the mode to the power saving mode.

  According to this aspect, when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the power supply state of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses is referred to, and at least one other of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Thus, the power supply state of the function execution means set to the normal mode is switched to the power saving mode. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming system capable of maintaining a state in which all of at least one function can be executed in any of the plurality of image forming apparatuses.

  Preferably, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes a job storage unit that temporarily stores accepted jobs until the job execution unit executes, and a processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit is a predetermined amount or more Is used to execute all stored jobs from all other image forming apparatuses of the plurality of image forming apparatuses with reference to the power supply states of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. An activation device selection means for selecting an activation device having a minimum number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode, and a job temporarily stored in the selected activation device Activation instruction means for outputting an activation instruction including the above-described types.

  According to this aspect, when the processing amount of the accepted job is equal to or larger than a predetermined amount, it is used to execute all of the jobs from all the other image forming apparatuses of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. An activation device that can execute all functions and has the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is selected, and an activation instruction including the type of job is output to the activation device. For this reason, it is possible to make the activation device ready to execute a job. As a result, it is possible to eliminate a state where jobs are concentrated on the own apparatus.

  Preferably, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes a job storage unit that temporarily stores an accepted job until the processing execution unit executes, and a processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit is a predetermined amount or more The mode switching request means for transmitting a mode switching request including the type of job temporarily stored in all other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, and the job is stored in the job storage means. If no mode switching request is received from any of all the other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, at least one function is referred with reference to the power supply state of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Of the execution means, a function execution means that requires switching from the power saving mode to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request. Is a plurality of image forming apparatuses that are other than the instruction apparatus that has output the mode switching request, and determines whether or not the own apparatus is the minimum. When it is determined that the number of function execution means for switching to the mode is the minimum, the function execution means used for executing the type of job included in the mode switch request among at least one function execution means. The function execution means switched to the power saving mode is switched to the normal mode.

  According to this aspect, when the processing amount of the accepted job exceeds a predetermined amount, a mode switching request including the job type is transmitted to all the other image forming apparatuses, and any of the other image forming apparatuses When the mode switching request is received from the device, the number of function execution means that require switching from the power saving mode to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request is minimum The function execution means switched to the power saving mode is switched to the normal mode. Therefore, a job can be executed in a plurality of apparatuses. As a result, it is possible to eliminate the state where jobs are concentrated on one apparatus.

  Preferably, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes notification means for notifying all other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses of the changed power supply state when the power supply state is changed. When the power supply state is changed, or when notification of the power supply state of the image forming apparatus is received from any other image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses Updating means for updating a power table indicating a power supply state.

  Preferably, the processing execution unit further includes a job reception unit that receives a job for executing the processing, and the predetermined condition is determined for each of at least one function execution unit, and each of the at least one function execution unit is activated. Instead, it is established when a predetermined time elapses for the function execution means.

  According to this aspect, since the power mode is switched to the power saving mode for each at least one function execution unit, the power consumption can be reduced by partially switching the power mode.

  Preferably, the image forming system further includes a job transmitting device that transmits a job to any one of the plurality of image forming devices, the job transmitting device including a job generating unit that generates a job, and each of the plurality of image forming devices. Referring to the power supply state, among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, all of the function execution means used to execute the generated job among at least one function execution means are in the normal power mode image forming apparatus. If it exists, the image forming apparatus is selected, and among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, all of the function execution means used for executing the generated job among at least one function execution means Function used for executing a job generated in at least one function execution unit when there is no image forming apparatus in the mode Execution device selection means for selecting an executable device having a minimum number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and generating the selected executable device And a job transmission means for transmitting the processed job.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus is an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses, and includes at least one function execution unit that respectively executes at least one function; The power supply state in either the normal mode or the power saving mode in which the power consumption is lower than that in the normal mode, for each job execution unit that controls at least one function execution unit to execute a job. Switching means for switching between the self-apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. And at least one function execution unit that is set to the normal mode in at least one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses. Switch the power supply state to the power-saving mode.

  According to this aspect, the power supply state of the function execution unit that is set to the normal mode in at least one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses is switched to the power saving mode. It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of maintaining a state where all of at least one function can be performed in any of the image forming apparatuses.

  Preferably, when the job storage means for temporarily storing a job to be accepted until the job execution means executes and the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage means exceeds a predetermined amount, the own apparatus and other ones With reference to the power supply status of each of the above image forming apparatuses, a function used to execute all stored jobs can be executed from one or more other image forming apparatuses, and the power saving mode can be executed. Starting device selecting means for selecting a starting device having the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the normal power mode to the normal power mode, and a starting instruction means for outputting a starting instruction including the type of job temporarily stored in the selected starting device; Are further provided.

  According to this aspect, it is possible to eliminate the state where jobs are concentrated on the own apparatus.

  Preferably, a job storage unit that temporarily stores a job to be accepted until the processing execution unit executes, and when the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit exceeds a predetermined amount, one or more other images From a mode switching request unit that transmits a mode switching request including a job type temporarily stored in the forming apparatus, and one of one or more other image forming apparatuses when no job is stored in the job storage unit When a mode switching request is received, the type of job included in the mode switching request is executed out of at least one function execution unit with reference to the power supply states of the own apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses. Therefore, the number of function execution units that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode is one or more other image forming apparatuses that output a mode switching instruction. Judgment means for judging whether or not the own apparatus is smaller than any of the other external apparatuses, and the switching means has a function execution means for switching to the normal mode by the judgment means as compared with any of the other apparatuses. A function execution unit that is used to execute a job of the type included in the mode switching request among at least one function execution unit and is switched to the power saving mode when it is determined that the own device is small. The execution means is switched to the normal mode.

  According to this aspect, it is possible to eliminate a state where jobs are concentrated on one of the own apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, a power supply state switching method is a power supply state switching method executed in an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses, and the image forming apparatus includes at least Controlling at least one function execution unit for executing each function to execute a job, and for each of the at least one function execution unit, either a normal mode or a power saving mode with less power consumption than the normal mode The step of switching the power supply state, and the step of switching when the predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the power supply of each of the apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses. With reference to the power table indicating the state, at least one function execution unit is provided, which is a small number of other one or more image forming apparatuses. Both the power supply state of the one in function executing means is set to the normal mode comprising the step of switching to the power saving mode.

  According to this aspect, it is possible to provide a power state switching method capable of maintaining a state in which all of at least one function can be performed in any of the apparatus and at least one other image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the processing amount of the job stored in the step of temporarily storing the received job and the step of temporarily storing the job is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job. In this case, a function used to execute all stored jobs from one or more other image forming apparatuses with reference to the power supply states of the own apparatus and the other one or more image forming apparatuses. And a step of selecting an activation device having the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode, and an activation instruction including the type of job temporarily stored in the selected activation device. And outputting.

  Preferably, the processing amount of the job stored in the step of temporarily storing the received job and the step of temporarily storing the job is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job. In this case, a step of transmitting a mode switching request for transmitting a mode switching request including the type of job temporarily stored to one or more other image forming apparatuses, and another one or more when no job is stored. When a mode switching request is received from any one of the image forming apparatuses, the power supply state of each of the image forming apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses is referred to and included in the mode switching request among at least one function execution unit. In other image forming apparatuses, the number of function execution units that need to be switched to the normal mode in order to execute a type of job is one or more. And a step of determining whether the own device is smaller than any of the other devices other than the instruction device that has output the mode switching instruction, wherein the switching step is a function executing means for switching to the normal mode in the determining step. Is a function execution unit that is used to execute a job of the type included in the mode switching request among at least one function execution unit when it is determined that its own device is smaller than any of the other devices. The step of switching the function execution means switched to the power saving mode to the normal mode is included.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, a power supply state switching program is a power supply state switching program executed by a computer that controls an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses. The step of executing a job by controlling at least one function execution unit that respectively executes at least one function of the forming apparatus, and the power saving for each of the at least one function execution unit is lower than that in the normal mode and the normal mode. Switching the power supply state to any one of the power modes, and causing the computer to execute the switching step when the predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. Referring to the power table indicating the power supply state of each of the image forming apparatuses, at least one A is of the function executing unit includes a step of switching a power supply state of the at least one in function executing means is set to the normal mode of one or more other image forming apparatus to the power saving mode.

  According to this aspect, it is possible to provide a power state switching program capable of maintaining a state in which all of at least one function can be executed in either the self apparatus or at least one other image forming apparatus.

  Preferably, the processing amount of the job stored in the step of temporarily storing the received job and the step of temporarily storing the job is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job. In this case, a function used to execute all stored jobs from one or more other image forming apparatuses with reference to the power supply states of the own apparatus and the other one or more image forming apparatuses. And a step of selecting an activation device having the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode, and an activation instruction including the type of job temporarily stored in the selected activation device. And outputting to the computer.

  Preferably, the processing amount of the job stored in the step of temporarily storing the received job and the step of temporarily storing the job is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job. In this case, a step of transmitting a mode switching request for transmitting a mode switching request including the type of job temporarily stored to one or more other image forming apparatuses, and another one or more when no job is stored. When a mode switching request is received from any one of the image forming apparatuses, the power supply state of each of the image forming apparatus and one or more other image forming apparatuses is referred to and included in the mode switching request among at least one function execution unit. In other image forming apparatuses, the number of function execution units that need to be switched to the normal mode in order to execute a type of job is one or more. A step of determining whether or not the device is smaller than any of the other devices other than the instruction device that has output the mode switching instruction, and causing the computer to execute the step of switching to the normal mode in the step of determining. When it is determined that the number of function execution means is smaller than that of any of the other apparatuses, the function execution means used for executing the type of job included in the mode switching request among at least one function execution means. The function execution means switched to the power saving mode is switched to the normal mode.

1 is a diagram showing an overall outline of an image forming system in an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of an MFP. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an MFP. FIG. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the hardware constitutions of PC. It is a block diagram which shows an example of the function which CPU with which PC is provided with the data memorize | stored in HDD. It is a figure which shows an example of an electric power table. It is a figure which shows an example of a unit table. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of functions of a CPU included in the MFP according to the first embodiment, together with data stored in an HDD 191. FIG. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of an electric power supply state switching process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a starting process. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a power saving mode switching process. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating an overview of functions of a CPU provided in an MFP according to a second embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the electric power supply state switching process in 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a starting availability determination process.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<First Embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall outline of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 1, an image forming system 1 includes multifunction peripherals (hereinafter referred to as “MFP”) 100, 100A to 100E as image forming apparatuses connected to a network 3, and personal computers (hereinafter referred to as “PC”). 200, 200A, 200B and the server 300. Although the figure shows an example in which six MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals) 100, 100A to 100E are connected to the network 3, the number of MFPs is not limited to this, and may be one or more. That's fine. Further, instead of the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E, any apparatus having a function of forming an image may be used, for example, a facsimile, a printer, or the like. The network 3 is a local area network (LAN), and the connection form may be wired or wireless. The network 3 is not limited to a LAN, and may be a wide area network (WAN), a public switched telephone network (PSTN), an intranet, the Internet, or the like.

  The MFPs 100, 100A to 100E may have the same or different hardware configurations, but include an image forming unit for forming an image on a sheet such as paper based on at least image data.

  The PCs 200, 200A, 200B and the server 300 are general computers. Each of PCs 200, 200A, and 200B is used by a user, and a driver program that controls each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E is installed. For this reason, MFPs 100, 100A to 100E are each remotely operated from PC 200, 200A, 200B. In other words, the user can operate the PC 200, 200A, or 200B to transmit a job to any of the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E, and execute the transmitted job. Each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E executes a job received from any of PCs 200, 200A, and 200B.

  The MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E may have the same or different hardware configurations. Here, the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E have the same hardware configuration, and the MFP 100 will be described as an example unless otherwise specified.

  FIG. 2 is a perspective view showing the appearance of the MFP. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the hardware configuration of the MFP. 2 and 3, MFP 100 includes a central processing unit (CPU) 111 that controls MFP 100 as a whole, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 112 used as a work area for CPU 101, and a program executed by CPU 101. ROM (Read Only Memory) 113, automatic document feeder (ADF) unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, A facsimile unit 160, an operation unit 170, a data communication unit 180, and a data storage unit 190 are included.

  The ADF unit 110 automatically conveys a plurality of documents set on the document feed tray 111 one by one to a predetermined document reading position set on the platen glass of the image reading unit 120, and the image reading unit The document whose document image is read by 120 is discharged onto the document discharge tray 112. The image reading unit 120 includes a light source that irradiates light to a document conveyed to a document reading position and a photoelectric conversion element that receives light reflected from the document, and scans a document image corresponding to the size of the document. The photoelectric conversion element converts received light into image data, which is an electrical signal, and outputs the image data.

  The image forming unit 130 forms an image by a known electrophotographic method, and performs various data processing such as shading correction on the image data input from the image reading unit, and based on the image data after the data processing. Thus, an image is formed on the sheet conveyed by the sheet feeding unit 140. The paper feed unit 140 conveys the paper stored in the paper feed tray to the image forming unit 130. The image data for the image forming unit 130 to form an image on a sheet includes image data input from a facsimile unit 160, a data communication unit 180, and a data storage unit 190, which will be described later.

  The post-processing unit 150 discharges the sheet on which the image is formed by the image forming unit 130. The post-processing unit 150 has a plurality of paper discharge trays, and can sort and discharge the sheets on which images are formed. Further, the post-processing unit 150 includes a punch hole processing unit and a staple processing unit, and can perform punch hole processing or stapling on the discharged paper. The post-processing unit 150, in addition to the function of discharging the paper on which the image is formed by the image forming unit 130, in addition to the paper placed on the uppermost tray of the plurality of paper discharge trays based on the instruction input to the operation unit 170 A function of stapling and / or punching a bundle is provided. Therefore, the post-processing unit 150 operates independently of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the facsimile unit 160, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. Is possible.

  The facsimile unit 160 is connected to the PSTN 161 and transmits facsimile data to the PSTN 161 or receives facsimile data from the PSTN 161. The destination to which the facsimile data received by the facsimile unit 160 is output includes the image forming unit 130 and a data storage unit 190 described later. When facsimile data is input from the facsimile unit 160, the image forming unit 130 forms an image of the facsimile data on a sheet. The facsimile data transmitted by the facsimile unit 160 includes image data input from the image reading unit 120, image data input from the data storage unit 190, or image data input from the data communication unit 180.

  Operation unit 170 is provided on the upper surface of MFP 100 and functions as a user interface for a user who operates MFP 100. The operation unit 170 includes a display unit 171 and an operation unit 173. The display unit 171 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic ELD (Electro Luminescence Display), and displays an instruction menu for the user, information about acquired image data, and the like. The operation unit 173 includes a plurality of keys, and accepts input of various instructions, data such as characters and numbers by user operations corresponding to the keys. The operation unit 173 includes a touch panel provided on the display unit 171.

  The data communication unit 180 is a communication interface for connecting the MFP 100 to the network 3. CPU 101 can communicate with other MFPs 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> E, PCs 200, 200 </ b> A, 200 </ b> B, and server 300 via network 3. As the communication protocol, TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or FTP (File Transfer Protocol) can be used. Furthermore, when the network 3 is connected to the Internet, the data communication unit 180 allows the CPU 101 to communicate with other computers connected to the Internet.

  The data storage unit 190 includes a hard disk drive (HDD) 91 as a mass storage device and an external storage device 193. The external storage device 193 can be loaded with a CD-ROM 93A, the CPU 101 controls the data storage unit 190, reads a program to be executed by the CPU 101 from the CD-ROM 93A, stores the read program in the RAM 102, Execute.

  The recording medium for storing the program to be executed by the CPU 101 is not limited to the CD-ROM 93A, but a flexible disk, a cassette tape, an optical disk (MO (Magnetic Optical Disc / MD (Mini Disc) / DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)). ), An IC card, an optical card, a mask ROM, an EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM), a semiconductor memory such as an EEPROM (Electrically EPROM), etc. Further, the CPU 101 downloads a program from a computer connected to the Internet, and the HDD 191 Or a computer connected to the Internet writes the program to the HDD 191 As described above, the program stored in the HDD 191 may be loaded into the RAM 102 and executed by the CPU 101. The program here is not only a program directly executable by the CPU 101, but also a source program and a compression process. Encrypted programs, encrypted programs, and the like.

  Next, hardware and functions of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B will be described. Since the hardware and functions of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B are the same, the PC 200 will be described as an example unless otherwise specified.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of the PC. Referring to FIG. 4, each PC 200 is connected to a bus 208, and is used as a CPU 201 for controlling the entire PC 200, a ROM 202 for storing programs executed by the CPU 201, and a work area for the CPU 201. A RAM 203, a network I / F 204 for connecting the PC 200 to the network, an HDD 205 as a large-capacity storage device, a display unit 206, an operation unit 207 for accepting user operation input, and an external storage device 209. Including.

  The external storage device 209 is loaded with a CD-ROM (Compact Disc-ROM) 209A storing a program. The CPU 201 loads the program stored in the CD-ROM 209A via the external storage device 209 to the RAM 203 and executes it. The recording medium for storing the program is not limited to the CD-ROM 209A, but a semiconductor memory such as a flexible disk, a cassette tape, an optical disk (MO / MD / DVD), an IC card, an optical card, a mask ROM, an EPROM, and an EEPROM. But you can. Further, the program stored in the HDD 205 may be loaded into the RAM 203 and executed. In this case, the PC 200 may download a program from another computer connected to the network 3 and store the program in the HDD 205. The program here includes not only a program directly executable by the CPU 201 but also a source program, a compressed program, an encrypted program, and the like.

  Each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E in the present embodiment switches the power mode to the normal mode after turning on the power, ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, and rear The processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 are all ready to be executed immediately. However, when the power saving transition condition is satisfied, the power consumption is normally reduced. Switch to a power saving mode smaller than the mode. The power saving mode is supplied to each of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. In addition to the case where the power is cut off, the case where the power is partially supplied to each unit or the case where the amount of power supplied to each unit is reduced is included. For example, when the image forming unit 130 includes a fixing roller that fixes toner on a sheet, in the power saving mode, power supply to the fixing roller is continued and power supplied to a portion other than the fixing roller of the image forming unit 130. Shut off. Further, the power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied to the fixing roller includes a case where the temperature of the fixing roller is lowered step by step and the power consumption is reduced step by step. The power saving transition condition for switching the power saving mode from the normal mode to the power saving mode will be described later.

  Each of MFPs 100, 100A to 00E includes ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, facsimile unit 160, operation unit 170, data communication unit 180, and data. In each storage unit 190, the power mode can be switched independently. Therefore, each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E includes ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, facsimile unit 160, operation unit 170, data communication unit 180, and data storage. For each unit 190, it is determined whether or not a power saving transition condition is established.

  On the other hand, each of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B can cause the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E to execute a job. In the apparatuses that execute jobs among the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E, the ADF unit 110 and the image reading unit 120 are used. All of the units used for executing jobs among the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 are set to the normal mode. It is a condition that it is done. For example, in the MFP 100, all powers of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. If the mode is switched to the normal mode, MFP 100 can execute a job. However, when the power mode of the image forming unit 130 is switched to the power saving mode, a print job cannot be executed. If the power mode of the post-processing unit 150 is switched to the power saving mode even if the power mode of the image forming unit 130 is switched to the normal mode, for example, it is possible to execute a print job including sort processing. Can not.

  Each of PCs 200, 200A, and 200B is used to execute a job designated by the user among MFPs 100, 100A to 100E when the user selects one of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E in order to execute the job. It is possible to select a device in which the power mode of the selected unit is switched to the normal mode. Therefore, in the image forming system 1 according to the present embodiment, among the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, in the apparatus in which the power mode of the unit used for executing the job specified by the user is switched to the power saving mode. Since the unit that has been switched to the power saving mode cannot be switched to the normal mode, it is possible to avoid power consumption by switching to the normal mode.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the functions of the CPU included in the PC together with data stored in the HDD. The functions shown in FIG. 5 are functions realized by the CPU 201 when the CPU 201 included in the PC 200 executes a driver program stored in the ROM 202, the HDD 205, or the CD-ROM 209A. With reference to FIG. 5, the HDD 205 stores a power table 261 and a unit table 263. Here, the power table 261 and the unit table 263 will be described.

  FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the power table. Referring to FIG. 6, power table 261 includes a power record indicating a power supply state for each of MFPs 100 and 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> E. Here, the device identification information of the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E is the first to sixth MFPs, respectively. The power record includes an item of device identification information and an item of power supply state. The items of the power supply state include the ADF unit item, the image reading unit item, the image forming unit item, the paper feeding unit item, the post-processing unit item, the facsimile unit item, and the operation unit item. An item, a data communication unit item, and a data storage unit item.

  In the device identification information item, device identification information of each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E is set. In the item of ADF unit, the power mode of ADF unit 110 is set. In the figure, when the power mode is the normal mode, it is indicated by “◯”, when it is in the power saving mode, it is indicated by “×”, and when the unit is not provided, it is indicated by “−”. In the item of the image reading unit, the power mode of the image reading unit 120 is set. In the item of the image forming unit, the power mode of the image forming unit 130 is set. In the item of the paper feed unit, the power mode of the paper feed unit 140 is set. In the item of the post-processing unit, the power mode of the post-processing unit 150 is set. In the facsimile unit item, the power mode of the facsimile unit 160 is set. In the operation unit item, the power mode of the operation unit 170 is set. In the item of the data communication unit, the power mode of the data communication unit 180 is set. In the data storage unit item, the power mode of the data storage unit 190 is set.

  For example, the power record corresponding to the MFP 100 is a power record in which the device identification information “first MFP” of the MFP 100 is set in the device identification information item, and includes the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the facsimile unit 160, and the operation unit 170. The power mode of the data storage unit 190 is the power saving mode, and the power modes of the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180 are the normal mode. Therefore, it can be seen that the MFP 100 can execute a print job including post-processing such as sorting processing.

  The power record corresponding to MFP 100A is a power record in which device identification information “second MFP” of MFP 100A is set in the item of device identification information, and the power mode of image forming unit 120, paper feed unit 140, and facsimile unit 160. Indicates the power saving mode, and the power modes of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the post-processing unit 150, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 are the normal mode. Therefore, MFP 100A can execute a scan (glass surface) process for reading an original placed on the glass surface because the power mode of image reading unit 120 is the normal mode, and further, the power mode of ADF unit 110 is the normal mode. Therefore, a scan (ADF) process for reading a document placed on the ADF unit can be executed. Furthermore, since the power mode of the data communication unit 180 and the data storage unit 190 is the normal mode, data transmission processing for transmitting scanned data and data storage processing for storing scanned data can be executed. Furthermore, since the power mode of the post-processing unit 150 is the normal mode, post-processing such as punching or stapling can be executed.

  FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of the unit table. Referring to FIG. 7, unit table 263 includes a unit record indicating a job and a unit used to execute the job. The unit record includes a job identification information item, an ADF unit item, an image reading unit item, an image forming unit item, a paper feeding unit item, a post-processing unit item, and a facsimile unit item. , An operation unit item, a data communication unit item, and a data storage unit item.

  The job identification information items include job identification information “print job (output only)” of a print job for printing only, job identification information “print (post processing)” of a print job to be post-processed after printing, Job identification information “scan (glass surface)” of the scan job for reading the original document, job identification information “scan (ADF)” of the scan job for reading the document placed on the ADF unit, job identification information of the facsimile job to be transmitted by facsimile Either “FAX (transmission only)” or job identification information “FAX (simultaneous output)” of a facsimile job to be printed in addition to facsimile transmission is set.

  In the ADF unit item, whether or not the ADF unit 110 is used when the job is executed is set. In the figure, when used, it is indicated by “◯”, and when not used, it is indicated by “x”. In the item of the image reading unit, whether or not the image reading unit 120 is used when the job is executed is set. In the image forming unit item, whether or not the image forming unit 130 is used when a job is executed is set. In the item of the paper feed unit, whether or not the paper feed unit 140 is used when the job is executed is set. In the item of the post-processing unit, whether or not the post-processing unit 150 is used when the job is executed is set. In the facsimile unit item, whether or not the facsimile unit 160 is used when a job is executed is set. In the item of the operation unit, whether or not the operation unit 170 is used when the job is executed is set. In the item of the data communication unit, whether or not the data communication unit 180 is used when the job is executed is set. In the item of the data storage unit, whether or not the data storage unit 190 is used when the job is executed is set.

  For example, a unit record corresponding to a print job for printing only is a unit record in which job identification information “print job (output only)” is set in the item of job identification information, and when a print job for printing only is executed. In addition, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, and the data communication unit 180 are used, and the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, and the data storage unit 190 are not used. It is shown that.

  For this reason, when a job is specified, a unit used to execute the specified job can be specified with reference to the unit table 263 shown in FIG. When a unit used for executing the specified job is specified, the power mode of the unit specified from among MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E is normally set with reference to the power table 261 shown in FIG. The device of the mode can be specified.

  Returning to FIG. 5, the CPU 201 included in the PC 200 includes a power table acquisition unit 251 that acquires a power table, a job generation unit 253 that generates a job, an execution device selection unit 255 that selects an execution device that executes a job, And a job transmission unit 257 that transmits the generated job to the execution apparatus.

  If the user operating the PC 200 operates the operation unit 207 and inputs a condition for executing the job, the job generation unit 253 generates a job according to the input condition. For example, when a character editing application program is executed and print conditions for printing the generated character data are input, a print job for printing the character data is generated. The print conditions include, for example, the number of copies, the paper size, the paper direction, the image arrangement direction and position on the paper, sorting, the presence or absence of staples, and the like. If the user inputs scanning conditions for scanning a document to the operation unit 207, a scan job for reading the document is generated. The scan conditions include, for example, document size, document type (characters, photos, graphics), document color / monochrome, and information for specifying an output destination. Further, when the user inputs a facsimile transmission condition for facsimile transmission to the operation unit 207, a facsimile transmission job is generated. The facsimile transmission conditions include information for specifying data to be facsimile-transmitted, a facsimile number for specifying a facsimile transmission destination, and the like. The job generation unit 253 outputs the generated job to the execution device selection unit 255 and the job transmission unit 257.

  The power table acquisition unit 251 controls the network I / F 204 to receive the power supply state from any of the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E. Upon receiving the power supply status, power table acquisition unit 251 acquires the received power supply status and device identification information for identifying the device that has transmitted the power supply status from among MFPs 100 to 100E. Then, the power table 261 stored in the HDD 205 is updated using the received power supply state and the acquired device identification information. Specifically, the same device identification information as the acquired device identification information identifies the power record set in the item of the device identification information, and the item of the power supply state of the identified power record is the received power supply. Update with status.

  When a job is input from the job generation unit 253, the execution device selection unit 255 refers to the unit table 263 stored in the HDD 205 and identifies a unit used to execute the input job. Next, the execution device selection unit 255 refers to the power table 261 stored in the HDD 205 and identifies an MFP in which the power mode of the unit identified from the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E is the normal mode. For example, when the job input from the job generation unit 253 is a print job for only printing, the job identification information “print job (output only)” is set in the job identification information item from the unit table 263 shown in FIG. The unit forming unit record is extracted, and the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, and the data communication unit 180 are specified as units used when executing a print job for printing only. Next, referring to the power table 261 shown in FIG. 6, a power record in which the power modes of the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, and the data communication unit 180 are all set to the normal mode is extracted. In the power table 261 shown in FIG. 6, a power record in which the device identification information “first MFP” is set in the device identification information item is extracted. The execution device selection unit 255 selects the MFP 100 specified by the device identification information “first MFP” set in the device identification information item of the extracted power record as the activation device. Execution device selection unit 255 outputs device identification information “first MFP” of selected activation device MFP 100 to job transmission unit 257. If a plurality of power records are extracted from the power table 261, the user of the PC 200 selects one of the plurality of device identification information set in each of the extracted power records. Good.

  In MFPs 100A to 100E, the power modes of image forming unit 130 and paper feed unit 140 used for executing a print job are switched to the power saving mode. Assuming that a print job for printing only is transmitted to MFPs 100A to 100E in this state, the power mode of image forming unit 130 and paper feed unit 140 is switched to the normal mode, and power is consumed. Therefore, among MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, a print job for printing only to MFPs 100A to 100E in which the power mode of a unit used for executing a print job for printing only specified by the user is switched to the power saving mode. Is prevented from being transmitted to the MFPs 100A to 100E so that the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 that are switched to the power saving mode to execute the print job are not switched to the normal mode. As a result, unnecessary power consumption can be avoided.

  In image forming system 1 in the present embodiment, each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E has power so that PC 200, 200A, and 200B can select an activation device that transmits a job from among MFPs 100, 100A to 100E. Switch the state. In other words, the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E are configured so that the power mode of the unit used to execute the job input in each of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B is the normal mode in at least one of the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E. In each of them, the power mode of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, and the data communication unit 180 is switched to the power saving mode.

  Hereinafter, in each of MFPs 100, 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> E, power is supplied to each of ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, facsimile unit 160, operation unit 170, and data communication unit 180. The control for switching the mode will be described in detail.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating an example of functions of the CPU included in the MFP according to the first embodiment, together with data stored in the HDD 191. The functions of the CPU 101 included in the MFP 100 illustrated in FIG. 8 are functions realized by the CPU 101 when the CPU 101 executes a power supply state switching program stored in the ROM 103, the HDD 191 or the CD-ROM 93A.

  Referring to FIG. 8, CPU 101 provided in MFP 100 includes a job reception unit 51 that receives a job, a job execution unit 53 that executes a job, a switching unit 55 that switches a power mode, and the power supply states of other MFPs 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> E. And a notification unit 57 that notifies each of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B, a power supply state reception unit 59 that receives a power supply state from any of the other MFPs 100A to 100E, a power table update unit 61 that updates the power table, An activation device selection unit 63 and an activation instruction unit 65 are included.

  When the data communication unit 180 receives a job from any of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B, the job reception unit 51 receives the received job. Jobs received by the data communication unit 180 from any of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B are a print job for executing print processing, a scan job for executing scan processing, and a data storage job for executing data storage processing And a facsimile transmission job for executing facsimile transmission processing.

  In addition, when the user operates the operation unit 170, the job reception unit 51 receives a job according to the operation input to the operation unit 170. Jobs accepted by the operation unit 170 are a copy job for executing a copy process, a scan job for executing a scan process, a facsimile transmission job for transmitting a facsimile, a data transmission job for transmitting data, and data for storing data Includes post-processing jobs for storing jobs, punching or stapling. The job reception unit 51 receives a facsimile reception job when the facsimile unit 160 receives facsimile data from the outside.

  The job reception unit 51 stores a job received from any of the data communication unit 180, the operation unit 170, and the facsimile unit 160 in the HDD 195. As a result, the job is stored in the HDD 195.

  The job execution unit 53 reads and executes the jobs 95 stored in the HDD 191 in the stored order. When the job execution unit 53 finishes executing the job 95 stored in the HDD 191, the job execution unit 53 deletes the executed job 95 from the HDD 191.

  Jobs executed by the job execution unit 53 include copy jobs, print jobs, facsimile transmission jobs, facsimile reception jobs, data transmission jobs, data reception jobs, data storage jobs, and post-processing jobs. When executed, the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 are controlled.

  For example, when executing a print job, the job execution unit 53 controls the image forming unit 130, the paper feed unit 140, and the data communication unit 180. Further, when the print job defines post-processing such as sorting, The post-processing unit 150 is controlled. Further, the job execution unit 53 controls the ADF unit 110 and the image reading unit 120 when executing a scan job, and controls the data storage unit 190 when storing the scanned data. In the case of transmission, the data communication unit 180 is controlled. The job execution unit 53 controls the post-processing unit 150 and the operation unit 170 when executing a post-processing job.

  The switching unit 55 includes power modes of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. Switch. When the MFP 100 is turned on, the switching unit 55 is configured such that the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, and data communication. The power modes of the unit 180 and the data storage unit 190 are switched to the normal mode. ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, facsimile unit 160, operation unit 170, data communication unit 180, and data storage unit 190 In the normal mode, if a command is input from the CPU 101, the process can be immediately executed.

  The switching unit 55 includes an ADF unit 110, an image reading unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, a facsimile unit 160, an operation unit 170, a data communication unit 180, and a data storage unit 190. For a unit whose mode is the normal mode, the power mode of the unit is switched to a power saving mode in which the power consumption is smaller than that in the normal mode on condition that the power saving transition condition is satisfied. The power saving transition condition will be described later. When switching the power mode, the switching unit 55 outputs an update instruction to the power table updating unit 61 and the notification unit 57. The update instruction includes unit identification information for identifying the unit whose power mode has been switched, and the power mode after switching.

  When the power mode is the power saving mode, the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage In addition to the case where the power supplied to each unit 190 is cut off, the case where the power is partially supplied to the unit or the amount of power supplied to the unit is reduced is included. For example, when the image forming unit 130 includes a fixing roller that fixes toner on a sheet, in the power saving mode, the power supply to the fixing roller is continued, and the power supplied to the portions other than the fixing roller of the image forming unit is supplied. Cut off. The power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied to the fixing roller is a case where the temperature of the fixing roller is kept low.

  When executing a job, the job execution unit 53 executes an ADF unit 110, an image reading unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, a facsimile unit 160, an operation unit 170, a data communication unit 180, and data. If the power mode of the unit necessary for job execution in the storage unit 190 is the power saving mode, a power mode switching instruction is output to the switching unit 55. The power mode switching instruction includes unit identification information for identifying the unit. Here, the facsimile unit 160 and the data communication unit 180 can always receive data or factory data from the outside even in the power saving mode. Note that the facsimile unit 160 and the data communication unit 180 may not switch the power mode to the power saving mode when the data or the factory data cannot always be received from the outside in the power saving mode. .

  When a power mode switching instruction is input from job execution unit 53, switching unit 55 switches the power mode of the unit specified by the unit identification information included in the power mode switching instruction to the normal mode. When switching the power mode, the switching unit 55 outputs an update instruction to the power table updating unit 61 and the notification unit 57. The update instruction includes unit identification information for identifying the unit whose power mode has been switched, and the power mode after switching.

  When an update instruction is input from switching unit 55, notification unit 57 controls data communication unit 180 to transmit the power supply state to each of other MFPs 100A to 100E and PCs 200, 200A, and 200B. In the power supply state, the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, after the update instruction is input from the switching unit 55, The power modes of the data communication unit 180 and the data storage unit 190 are included.

  Power supply state reception unit 59 controls data communication unit 180 to receive the power supply state from any of other MFPs 100A to 100E. When receiving the power supply status, the power supply status receiving unit 59 sets a set of the received power supply status and device identification information for identifying a device that has transmitted the power supply status among the MFPs 100A to 100E. The data is output to the update unit 61.

  When an update instruction is input from the switching unit 55 or when a set of a power supply state and device identification information is input from the power supply state receiving unit 59, the power table update unit 61 responds to any input. The power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 is updated. Here, the power table 261 is the same as the power table 261 shown in FIG. In the image forming system 1, a common power table 261 is used, and the common power table 261 is stored in each of the MFPs 100, 100A to 100D and the PCs 200, 200A, 200B.

  Next, the switching unit 55 includes an ADF unit 110, an image reading unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, a facsimile unit 160, an operation unit 170, a data communication unit 180, and a data storage unit 190. The power saving transition condition used when determining whether to switch the power mode to the power saving mode will be described.

  The power saving transition condition includes a first condition and a second condition, and the power saving transition condition is satisfied when both the first condition and the second condition are satisfied. The first condition is that each of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. It is established when the period during which the process is not executed becomes equal to or greater than a threshold value. For example, when a time exceeding a threshold value elapses without the user performing an operation of inputting a job to the operation unit 170 and receiving a job from any of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B, The condition 1 is satisfied.

  The threshold values for determining whether the first condition is satisfied are the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, The data communication unit 180 and the data storage unit 190 may be different or the same. For example, the activation time until the process can be executed after switching from the power saving mode to the normal mode is the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, It differs depending on the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190. For this reason, a unit with a short start-up time can make a threshold value small, and a unit with a long start-up time can make a threshold value long.

  The switching unit 55 includes an ADF unit 110, an image reading unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, a facsimile unit 160, an operation unit 170, a data communication unit 180, and a data storage unit 190. When there is a unit that satisfies the first condition, a unit that performs the same function as the unit that satisfies the first condition is referred to the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 and is at least one of the other MFPs 100A to 100E. If one is set to the normal mode, it is determined that the second condition is satisfied.

  Therefore, among the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190, the first Even when the power mode of the unit satisfying the above condition is switched to the power saving mode, at least one of the other MFPs 100A to 100E has the power of the unit having the same function as the unit switched to the power saving mode in the MFP 100. The mode is set to the normal mode. As a result, in at least one of the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, and the data communication unit 180 are used. , And a state in which each function of the data storage unit 190 can be implemented.

  For this reason, each of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B can select any of the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E, and execute the job. On the other hand, jobs may concentrate on one of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E. For example, when the power mode of the image forming unit 130 of the MFP 100 is the normal mode and the power mode of the image forming unit having the same function as the image forming unit 130 of the MFP 100 is the power saving mode in each of the MFPs 100A to 100E, the PCs 200, 200A, A print job can be transmitted only to MFP 100 from each of 200B. As a result, print jobs are accumulated in MFP 100, and the load on MFP 100 increases.

  For this reason, the activation device selection unit 63 monitors the processing amount of the job 95 stored in the HDD 191. When the processing amount of the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 exceeds a predetermined amount, the activation device selection unit 63 activates from the MFPs 100A to 100E. Select a device. The activation device is a unit having the same function as a unit used to execute the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 of the MFP 100, here, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180. This is a device for switching the power mode to the normal mode.

  The activation device selection unit 63 refers to the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 and selects an activation device. The activation device selection unit 63 is a unit used to execute the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 of the MFP 100 from among the MFPs 100A to 100E other than its own device, and the number of units whose power mode is the power saving mode is the number of units. The smallest device is selected as the activation device.

  Here, a case where the power table 261 shown in FIG. 6 is stored in the HDD 191 will be described as an example. Units used to execute the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 of the MFP 100 are an image forming unit 130, a paper feed unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, and a data communication unit 180. In MFP 100A, the power mode of each of the image forming unit and the paper feeding unit is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each of the post-processing unit and the data communication unit is the normal mode. Therefore, the number of units in the power saving mode of MFP 100A is “2”. On the other hand, in each of MFPs 100B to 100E, the power mode of each of the image forming unit, the paper feeding unit, and the post-processing unit is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each of the data communication units is the normal mode. For this reason, the number of units in the power saving mode is “3”. In this case, activation device selection unit 63 selects MFP 100A having the smallest number of units in the power saving mode as the activation device.

  When activation device selection unit 63 selects activation device MFP 100 </ b> A, activation device selection unit 63 outputs a transmission instruction to activation instruction unit 65. The transmission instruction includes apparatus identification information of activation apparatus MFP 100A and unit identification information of each unit that switches the power mode, here, the image forming unit and the sheet feeding unit.

  When a transmission instruction is input from activation device selection unit 63, activation instruction unit 65 transmits the activation instruction to activation device MFP 100A specified by the device identification information included in the transmission instruction via data communication unit 180. . The activation instruction includes unit identification information of each unit that switches the power mode, here, the image forming unit and the paper feeding unit. In MFP 100A that receives the activation instruction, the power mode of the image forming unit and the paper feed unit is switched to the normal mode based on the unit identification information of each of the image forming unit and the paper feed unit included in the activation instruction. As a result, the MFP 100 and the MFP 100A can execute a print job, so that the state in which the print job can be transmitted only to the MFP 100 from each of the PCs 200, 200A, 200B is solved. As a result, since the print job may be transmitted to MFP 100A as well, the load on MFP 100 may be reduced, and the state where jobs are concentrated on one MFP 100 can be eliminated.

  Conversely, an activation instruction may be transmitted to MFP 100 from any of MFPs 100A to 100E. Here, the power supply state of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E is assumed. In MFP 100, the power mode of each of image forming unit 130 and paper feeding unit 140 is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each of post-processing unit 150 and data communication unit 180 is the normal mode, and in MFP 100A, the image forming unit, All the power modes of the paper feed unit, the post-processing unit, and the data communication unit are the normal mode, and all the power modes of the image forming unit, the paper feed unit, the post-processing unit, and the data communication unit are omitted in each of the MFPs 100B to 100E. Assume power mode.

  Under this assumption, print jobs are concentrated in MFP 100A. Therefore, when the number of print jobs stored in MFP 100A exceeds a predetermined amount, the number of units in power saving mode of MFP 100 is “2”, and the power savings of each of MFPs 100B to 100E. Since the number of units in the mode is “4”, MFP 100A outputs an activation instruction to activation apparatus MFP 100. In this case, the activation instruction includes unit identification information of each of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140.

  Activation instruction receiving unit 67 controls data communication unit 180 to receive an activation instruction transmitted by MFP 100A. Upon receiving the activation instruction, activation instruction receiving unit 67 outputs a power mode switching instruction to switching unit 55. The power mode switching instruction includes unit identification information of each of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 included in the received activation instruction.

  When the power mode switching instruction is input from the activation instruction receiving unit 67, the switching unit 55 normally sets the power modes of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 specified by the unit identification information included in the power mode switching instruction. Switch to mode. When switching the power mode, the switching unit 55 outputs an update instruction to the power table updating unit 61 and the notification unit 57. The update instruction includes unit identification information of each of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 whose power mode has been switched, and the power mode after switching (normal mode). The power table update unit 61 updates the power table 261 according to the input update instruction, and the notification unit 57 supplies power to each of the other MFPs 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, 200B according to the input update instruction. Send status.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the power supply state switching process. The power supply state switching process is a process executed by CPU 101 when CPU 101 of MFP 100 executes a power supply state switching program stored in ROM 103, HDD 191 or CD-ROM 93A.

  Referring to FIG. 9, it is determined whether or not a power supply state has been received (step S01). Judgment is made based on whether the data communication unit 180 has received a power supply state from any of the other MFPs 100A to 100E. When data communication unit 180 receives the power supply status, device identification information for identifying the device that has transmitted the power supply status among MFPs 100A to 100E is acquired. If the power supply state is received, the process proceeds to step S02. If not, step S02 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S03.

  In step S02, the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 is updated, and the process proceeds to step S03. Specifically, a power record in which the same device identification information as the device identification information that has transmitted the power supply state received in step S01 is set in the item of device identification information is identified from the power table 261, and the identified power record The item of the power supply state is rewritten with the power supply state received in step S01.

  In step S03, it is determined whether a job has been received. When the data communication unit 180 receives a job from any of the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B, the received job is accepted. If a job is received, the process proceeds to step S04. If not, step S04 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S05. In step S04, the job received in step S03 is temporarily stored in HDD 191. As a result, the job 95 is stored in the HDD 191.

  In step S05, it is determined whether there is a job to be processed. It is determined whether or not the job 95 is stored in the HDD 191. If job 95 is stored in HDD 191, the job is set as a processing target, and the process proceeds to step S06. If job 95 is not stored in HDD 191, the process proceeds to step S13. When a plurality of jobs 95 are stored in the HDD 191, the first stored job 95 is set as a processing target.

  In the next step S06, the job 95 set as the processing target is read from the HDD 191. Then, a unit used when executing the job is specified. Here, a case where a print job to be post-processed after printing is set as a processing target will be described as an example. In this case, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180 are specified as units to be used. Hereinafter, a unit specified as a unit to be used is referred to as a specific unit.

  In step S08, it is determined whether the processing amount of job 95 stored in HDD 195 is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. In some cases, a plurality of jobs 95 are stored in the HDD 191. In this case, a processing amount when all of the plurality of jobs 95 are processed is calculated, and it is determined whether or not the calculated processing amount is equal to or greater than a predetermined amount. If the processing amount of job 95 is equal to or greater than the predetermined amount, the process proceeds to step S09. If not, step S09 is skipped and the process proceeds to step S10.

  In step S09, a startup process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S10. Although details of the activation process will be described later, the activation process is a process of selecting an activation device from among the other MFPs 100A to 100E. In the next step S10, the job 95 read in step S06 is executed. In step S <b> 11, the executed job 95 is deleted from the HDD 191.

  In the next step S12, the timer corresponding to the specific unit is reset. Specifically, the value of the timer corresponding to the specific unit is set to “0”, and time measurement by the timer is started. The timer measures the time that has elapsed since the completion of the job execution, in other words, the time during which the unit is not driven. Since a timer is provided for each unit, when a plurality of units are designated as specific units, the timer corresponding to each of the plurality of specific units is reset. Here, the timer corresponding to the image forming unit 130, the timer corresponding to the paper feeding unit 140, the timer corresponding to the post-processing unit 150, and the timer corresponding to the data communication unit 180 are reset.

  In step S13, a power saving mode switching process is executed. Although details of the power saving mode switching process will be described later, a plurality of units included in the MFP 100, an ADF unit 110, an image reading unit 120, an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, a facsimile, and the like. This is a process of switching the power mode of the unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 that satisfies the power saving transition condition to the power saving mode.

  In the next step S14, it is determined whether an activation instruction has been received. It is determined whether data communication unit 180 has received an activation instruction from any of other MFPs 100A to 100E. If an activation instruction is received, the process proceeds to step S15; otherwise, the process returns to step S01. In step S15, the power mode of the unit specified by the activation instruction is switched to the normal mode. Then, the power cable is updated for the unit whose power mode has been switched (step S16). In the next step S17, the power supply state is notified, and the process returns to step S01. Specifically, the updated power supply state is transmitted to the other MFPs 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B via the data communication unit 180.

  When the user inputs a job to the operation unit 170, the CPU 101 receives the input job and executes the received job. When the CPU 101 executes a job input to the operation unit 170, if the power mode of the unit used for executing the job is the power saving mode, the power mode is switched to the normal mode. Also in this case, the CPU 101 updates the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 and transmits the updated power supply state to the other MFPs 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B. Further, when the execution of the job is completed, the timer corresponding to the unit used for executing the job is reset.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of activation processing. The activation process is a process executed in step S09 of FIG. 9. In step S07 before the activation process is executed, a specific unit used to execute the job set as the process target is specified. Yes.

  Referring to FIG. 10, the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 is read (step S21). Then, referring to the power table, the number of specific units that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode is counted for each device (step S22). Specifically, the number of specific units whose power mode is set to the power saving mode is counted with reference to the power records of other MFPs 100A to 100E. When the power table 261 shown in FIG. 6 is stored in the HDD 191, since a print job to be post-processed after printing is set as a processing target, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, The data communication unit 180 is a specific unit. In MFP 100A, the power mode of each of the image forming unit and the paper feeding unit is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each of the post-processing unit and the data communication unit is the normal mode. Therefore, in MFP 100A, the number of specific units that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode is “2”. On the other hand, in each of MFPs 100B to 100E, the power mode of each of the image forming unit, the paper feeding unit, and the post-processing unit is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each data communication unit is the normal mode, and the power mode is set to the power saving mode. The number of specific units that need to be switched from the mode to the normal mode is “3”.

  In the next step S23, the device having the smallest total value is selected as the activation device. In this case, “2” MFP 100A having the smallest number of specific units that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode is selected as the activation device.

  In the next step S24, an activation instruction is transmitted to the activation device, and the process returns to the power supply state switching process. The activation instruction includes unit identification information for identifying a specific unit that needs to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode. Here, activation instruction including unit identification information of the image forming unit and the paper feeding unit is transmitted to activation apparatus MFP 100A via data communication unit 180.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the power saving mode switching process. The power saving mode switching process is a process executed in step S13 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 11, CPU 101 sets “1” to variable i. The variable i is any of the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 included in the MFP 100. A value specifying whether or not is entered. Here, the ADF unit 110, the image reading unit 120, the image forming unit 30, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, the facsimile unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 are arranged in this order. Select and identify units in the order selected. Specifically, the ADF unit 110 is selected first, the image reading unit 120 is selected second, the image forming unit 130 is selected third, and the paper feed unit 140 is selected fourth. The fifth selects the post-processing unit 150, the sixth selects the facsimile unit 160, the seventh selects the operation unit 170, the eighth selects the data communication unit 180, and the ninth Next, the data storage unit 190 is selected.

  In the next step S32, the i-th unit is selected. Then, it is determined whether or not the timer value Vi corresponding to the i-th selected unit is greater than or equal to the threshold value Ti (step S33). In other words, it is determined whether or not the first condition is satisfied for the i-th selected unit. Vi indicates a timer value corresponding to the i-th selected unit, and Ti indicates a predetermined threshold value corresponding to the i-th selected unit. If timer value Vi is equal to or greater than threshold value Ti, the process proceeds to step S34; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S34, referring to power table 261 stored in HDD 191, the unit having the same function as the i-th selected unit and having the power mode in the normal mode is the unit of other MFPs 100A to 100E. It is determined whether it exists in either. In other words, it is determined whether or not the second condition is satisfied for the i-th selected unit. If there is a unit having the same function as the i-th selected unit and the power mode is the normal mode in any of MFPs 100A to 100E, the process proceeds to step S35. On the other hand, if the unit having the same function as the i-th selected unit is in the power saving mode in any of the other MFPs 100A to 100E, the process proceeds to step S36.

  In step S35, the power mode of the i-th selected unit is switched to the power saving mode, and the process proceeds to step S36. In step S36, it is determined whether there is a unit to be selected next. If an unselected unit exists, the process proceeds to step S37. If not, the process proceeds to step S38. In step S37, the variable i is incremented, and the process returns to step S32.

  In step S38, the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 is updated with the power supply state after changing the power mode to the power saving mode, and the process proceeds to step S39. In step S39, the power supply state is notified, and the process returns to the power supply state switching process. Specifically, the updated power supply state is transmitted to the other MFPs 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B via the data communication unit 180.

<Second Embodiment>
In image forming system 1 according to the first embodiment described above, in MFP 100 having an increased load among MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, an activation device is selected from other MFPs 100A to 100E, and an activation instruction is issued to the activation device. I sent it. In image forming system 1 in the second embodiment, among MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, in MFP 100 with an increased load, all of other MFPs 100A to 100E are requested to start up, and MFPs 100A to 100E requested to start up. In the meantime, the activation device is determined.

  The general outline of the image forming system 1 in the second embodiment is the same as the block diagram shown in FIG. The appearance and hardware configuration of MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E in the second embodiment are the same as those shown in FIGS. 2 and 3, respectively. Therefore, description is not repeated here.

  Here, a case where the power table 261 illustrated in FIG. 6 is stored in the HDD 191 will be described as an example. In this case, as described above, when any of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E is selected and executed in each of PCs 200, 200A, and 200B, the print job is accumulated in MFP 100, and the load on MFP 100 is reduced. Increase.

  FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing an overview of the functions of the CPU provided in the MFP according to the second embodiment. Referring to FIG. 12, the difference from the function shown in FIG. 8 is that switching unit 55 is changed to switching unit 55A, activation device selection unit 63 and activation instruction unit 65 are deleted, and request unit 71. The request receiving unit 73 and the determining unit 75 are added. Since the other functions are the same as those shown in FIG. 8, differences will be mainly described here.

  The request unit 71 monitors the processing amount of the job 95 stored in the HDD 191, and when the processing amount of the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 exceeds a predetermined amount, all of the MFPs 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> E are connected via the data communication unit 180. Send a startup request. The activation request includes unit identification information of each of the units used to execute the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 of the MFP 100, here, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180. Including.

  In the following description, request receiving unit 73, determination unit 75, and switching unit 55A shown in FIG. 12 will be described as functions of CPU 101 provided in MFP 100A. When the data communication unit 180 receives an activation request from any of the MFPs 100 and 100B to 100E, the request reception unit 73 provided in the MFP 100A acquires the activation request. Here, since MFP 100 transmits an activation request, the activation request is received from MFP 100. Upon receiving the activation request, request receiving unit 73 of MFP 100 </ b> A outputs unit identification information included in the activation request to determination unit 75.

  The determination unit 75 refers to the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 and specifies a unit specified by the unit identification information input from the request reception unit 73. Here, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180 are specified by the unit identification information included in the activation request. Then, the determination unit 75 determines whether or not the number of units of the specified unit whose power mode is the power saving mode is the minimum. In MFP 100A, the power mode of each of image forming unit 130 and paper feed unit 140 is the power saving mode, but the power mode of each of post-processing unit 150 and data communication unit 180 is the normal mode. Therefore, the number of units in the power saving mode of MFP 100A is “2”. On the other hand, in MFPs 100B to 100E, the power mode of image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, and post-processing unit 150 is the power saving mode, but the power mode of data communication unit 180 is the normal mode. Therefore, the number of units in the power saving mode of each of MFPs 100B to 100E is “3”. In this case, the determination unit 75 determines that the number of units in the power saving mode is the minimum in the own device.

  The determination unit 75 includes the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180 that are specified by the unit identification information included in the activation request, and in which the power mode is the power saving mode. 130, in order to switch the power mode of the sheet feeding unit 140 to the normal mode, a power mode switching instruction is output to the switching unit 55A. The power supply state switching instruction is an image forming unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a post-processing unit 150, and a data communication unit 180 specified by the unit identification information included in the activation request, and the power mode is an image in the power saving mode. The unit identification information of the forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 is included.

  When the power supply state switching instruction is input from the determination unit 75, the switching unit 55A normally sets the power modes of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feed unit 140 specified by the unit identification information included in the power supply state switching instruction. Switch to mode. When switching the power mode, switching unit 55A outputs an update instruction to power table updating unit 61 and notification unit 57. The update instruction includes unit identification information of each of the image forming unit 130 and the paper feeding unit 140 whose power mode has been switched, and the power mode after switching (normal mode). The power table updating unit 61 updates the power table 261 according to the input update instruction, and the notification unit 57 according to the input update instruction, to each of the other MFPs 100, 100B to 100E and PCs 200, 200A, 200B. Send power supply status.

  When the determination unit 75 determines that the number of units in the power saving mode is the smallest in the own device, there may be a plurality of devices including the own device in which the number of units in the power saving mode is minimized. For example, the number of units in the power saving mode of the MFP 100B is the same as the number of units in the power saving mode of the MFP 100A. In this case, determination unit 75 of MFP 100A communicates with determination unit of MFP 100B to determine which one switches the power mode to the normal mode. When determining that the self apparatus switches the power mode to the normal mode, the determination unit 75 of the MFP 100A outputs a power mode switching instruction to the switching unit 55A as described above, but the self apparatus switches the power mode. When it is not determined to switch to the normal mode, the power mode switching instruction is not output to the switching unit 55A.

  A well-known method can be used as a method in which the determination unit 75 communicates with the determination unit of the MFP 100B and determines which one switches the power mode to the normal mode. Note that when the determination unit 75 determines that the number of units in the power saving mode is the minimum in the own device, the determination unit 75 may switch the power mode to the normal mode in a plurality of devices including the own device.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of power supply state switching processing according to the second embodiment. The power supply state switching process illustrated in FIG. 13 is realized by the CPU 101 when the CPU 101 included in the MFP 100 according to the second embodiment executes a power supply state switching program stored in the ROM 103, the HDD 191 or the CD-ROM 93A. Process. Referring to FIG. 13, the difference from the power supply state switching process shown in FIG. 9 is that step S09A is executed instead of step S09, and step S50 is executed instead of steps S14 to S17. . Other processing is the same as the processing shown in FIG. 9, and therefore description thereof will not be repeated here.

  The case where the CPU 101 advances the process to step S09A is a case where the processing amount of the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 becomes equal to or larger than a predetermined amount in step S08. In step S09A, an activation request is transmitted to all of MFPs 100A to 100E via data communication unit 180. The activation request includes unit identification information of each of the units used to execute the job 95 stored in the HDD 191 of the MFP 100, here, the image forming unit 130, the paper feeding unit 140, the post-processing unit 150, and the data communication unit 180. Including.

  In step S50, an activation permission determination process is executed, and the process returns to step S01.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the flow of the activation possibility determination process. The activation permission determination process is a process executed in step S50 of FIG. Referring to FIG. 14, it is determined in step S51 whether an activation request has been received. It is determined whether data communication unit 180 has received an activation request from any of other MFPs 100A to 100E. If an activation request is received, the process proceeds to step S52; otherwise, the process returns to the power supply state switching process.

  In step S52, the unit specified by the activation request is extracted. The unit of the unit identification information included in the activation request is extracted as a processing target. Then, the power table 261 stored in the HDD 191 is read (step S53). Then, with reference to the power table, the number of units that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode among the units extracted in step S52 is totaled for each device. Specifically, the number of units extracted in step S52 and having the power mode set to the power saving mode is counted with reference to the power records of other MFPs 100A to 100E.

  In the next step S55, it is determined whether or not the total value of the own device is minimum. As a result of aggregation in step S54, if the aggregation area of the own device is minimum, the process proceeds to step S56. If not, the process returns to the power supply state switching process. In step S56, it is determined whether or not there are a plurality of apparatuses having the smallest total value. If there are a plurality of apparatuses including the own apparatus having the smallest total value, the process proceeds to step S57. If not, the process proceeds to step S61.

  In step S57, an advance notice is transmitted. Via the data communication unit 180, an advance notice is transmitted to the other device that has the smallest total value in step S54. The start-up notice is a notice that the device itself switches the power mode to the normal mode.

  In step S58, it is determined whether or not an acknowledgment notification has been received from the device that transmitted the activation notice. It is determined whether or not the data communication unit 180 has received an approval notification from the device that transmitted the activation notice in step S57. If an acknowledgment notification is received, the process proceeds to step S59; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S63. In step S59, an activation notification is transmitted to the device that has transmitted the approval notification received in step S58, and the process proceeds to step S60. In step S60, all the power modes of the units extracted in step S52 are switched to the normal mode. Then, the power cable is updated for the unit whose power mode has been switched (step S61). In the next step S62, the power supply state is notified. Specifically, the updated power supply state is transmitted to the other MFPs 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, and 200B via the data communication unit 180. Then, the start possibility determination process is terminated, and the process returns to the power supply state switching process.

  On the other hand, in step S63, it is determined whether an activation notice has been received. If data communication unit 180 receives a startup notice from any of other MFPs 100A to 100E, the process proceeds to step S64; otherwise, the process returns to step S58. In step S64, it is determined whether or not the time stamp attached to the start notice transmitted in step S57 is earlier than the time stamp attached to the start notice received in step S63. If the time stamp attached to the transmitted activation notice is earlier than the time stamp attached to the received activation notice, the process returns to step S58; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S65. In step S65, an acknowledgment notice is transmitted to the device that has transmitted the activation notice received in step S63, and the process proceeds to step S66.

  In step S66, it is determined whether an activation notification has been received. It is determined whether or not data communication unit 180 has received a startup notification from the device that has transmitted the startup notice received in step S63. The process waits until an activation notification is received (NO in step S66). If an activation notification is received, the activation availability determination process is terminated, and the process returns to the power supply state switching process. This is because, in another apparatus that has transmitted the activation notification, all the power modes of the units extracted in step S52 have been switched to the normal mode, so that it is not necessary for MFP 100 to switch the power mode.

  In the first and second embodiments described above, in each of MFPs 100 and 100A to 100D, ADF unit 110, image reading unit 120, image forming unit 130, paper feed unit 140, post-processing unit 150, facsimile machine are used. When the power mode of the unit 160, the operation unit 170, the data communication unit 180, and the data storage unit 190 is switched, the power supply state is transmitted to all other devices, so that the MFPs 100, 100A to 100E and the PCs 200, 200A, 200B Thus, the common power table 261 is stored. Instead of this, each of the MFPs 100, 100 </ b> A to 100 </ b> D may transmit the power supply state only to the server 300 so that the power table 261 is centrally managed in the server 300. In this case, each of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E and PCs 200, 200A, and 200B acquires power table 261 from server 300, and the power supply state of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E can be detected.

  Also, one of MFPs 100, 100A to 100E is a master device, all the others are slave devices, and the slave device transmits the power supply state to the master device, and the power table is centrally managed by the master device. You may do it. For example, when MFP 100 is the master device, slave devices MFP 100A to 100E and PCs 200, 200A, and 200B each acquire power table 261 from master device MFP 100, and detect the power supply state of MFP 100, 100A to 100E. be able to.

  In the above-described embodiment, the image forming system 1 has been described. However, the power supply state switching process in the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 or the first embodiment shown in FIGS. The power supply state switching method for causing the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E to execute the power supply state switching process according to the second embodiment, or the power supply state switching method for the CPUs 111 included in the MFPs 100 and 100A to 100E, respectively. It goes without saying that the invention can be understood as a power supply state switching program to be executed.

The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.
<Appendix>
(1) The image forming system further includes a server,
Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes notification means for notifying the server of the changed power supply state when the power supply state is changed,
When the server receives a notification of the power supply status of the image forming apparatus from any of the plurality of image forming apparatuses, the server updates updating means for updating a power table indicating the power supply status of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising:

(2) The plurality of image forming apparatuses include at least one master device and one or more slave devices other than the master device,
Each of the one or more slave devices further comprises notification means for notifying the at least one master device of the changed power supply state when the power supply state is changed,
Each of the at least one master device further updates a power table indicating the power supply status of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses when receiving the notification of the power supply status from any of the one or more slave devices. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising an updating unit.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming system, 3 Network, 51 Job reception part, 53 Job execution part, 55,55A switching part, 57 Notification part, 59 Power supply status reception part, 61 Power table update part, 63 Start-up apparatus selection part, 65 Start instruction , 67 Start instruction receiving unit, 71 Request unit, 73 Request receiving unit, 75 Judgment unit, 100, 100A to 100E MFP, 101 CPU, 102 RAM, 103 ROM, 111 Document feed tray, 112 Document discharge tray, 110 ADF unit, 120 image reading unit, 130 image forming unit, 140 paper feeding unit, 150 post-processing unit, 160 facsimile unit, 170 operation unit, 171 display unit, 173 operation unit, 180 data communication unit, 190 data storage unit, 193 External storage device, 193A CD-R M, 200, 200A, 200B PC, 201 CPU, 202 ROM, 203 RAM, 204 Network I / F, 205 HDD, 206 Display unit, 207 Operation unit, 208 bus, 209 External storage device, 209A CD-ROM, 251 Power Table acquisition unit, 253 job generation unit, 255 execution device selection unit, 257 job transmission unit, 261 power table, 263 unit table, 300 server.

Claims (15)

An image forming system including a plurality of image forming apparatuses,
Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses includes:
At least one function executing means for respectively executing at least one function;
Job execution means for controlling the at least one function execution means to execute a job;
Switching means for switching the power supply state between the normal mode and the power saving mode with less power consumption than the normal mode for each of the at least one function execution means,
The switching means is the at least one function execution means with reference to a power supply state of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. An image forming system that switches the power supply state of the function execution unit that is set to the normal mode to at least one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses to the power saving mode. Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes:
Job storage means for temporarily storing accepted jobs until the job execution means executes;
When the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit exceeds a predetermined amount, all other images of the plurality of image forming apparatuses are referred to by referring to the power supply state of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. From among the forming apparatuses, select an activation apparatus that can execute all the functions used to execute all of the stored jobs and has the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. An activation device selection means for
The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising: a start instruction unit that outputs a start instruction including the type of the temporarily stored job to the selected start device. Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes:
Job storage means for temporarily storing accepted jobs until the process execution means executes;
When the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit exceeds a predetermined amount, a mode switching request including the type of job temporarily stored in all other image forming apparatuses of the plurality of image forming apparatuses Mode switching request means for transmitting
When a job is not stored in the job storage unit and a mode switching request is received from any of the other image forming apparatuses among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses The number of function execution means that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request among the at least one function execution means with reference to the power supply state Determining means for determining whether or not the apparatus is the smallest among the plurality of image forming apparatuses other than the instruction apparatus that has output the mode switching request,
The switching means includes a type included in the mode switching request among the at least one function execution means when the determination means determines that the number of function execution means to be switched to the normal mode is the minimum for the own device. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the function execution means used for executing the job and switched to the power saving mode is switched to the normal mode. Each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses further includes a notification unit that notifies all the other image forming apparatuses of the plurality of image forming apparatuses of the changed power supply state when the power supply state is changed. ,
When the power supply state is changed, or when a notification of the power supply state of the image forming apparatus is received from any one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses, the plurality of image forming apparatuses The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising an update unit that updates a power table indicating each power supply state. Job receiving means for receiving a job for the processing execution means to execute processing;
The predetermined condition is determined for each of the at least one function execution unit, and is established when a predetermined time elapses for the function execution unit without activating each of the at least one function execution unit. The image forming system according to claim 1. The image forming system further includes a job transmitting device that transmits a job to any of the plurality of image forming devices,
The job transmission device includes job generation means for generating a job;
A function execution unit used to execute the generated job among the at least one function execution unit in the plurality of image forming apparatuses with reference to the power supply state of each of the plurality of image forming apparatuses. If there is an image forming apparatus in the normal electric mode, the image forming apparatus is selected, and the generated job of the at least one function execution unit is selected from the plurality of image forming apparatuses. Execution of the function used for executing the generated job among the at least one function execution means when all of the function execution means used for executing the image forming apparatus are in the normal electric mode. Among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, an executable apparatus having a minimum number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is provided. Execution unit selection means for al selection,
The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising: a job transmission unit that transmits the generated job to the selected executable device. An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses,
At least one function executing means for respectively executing at least one function;
Job execution means for controlling the at least one function execution means to execute a job;
Switching means for switching the power supply state between the normal mode and the power saving mode with less power consumption than the normal mode for each of the at least one function execution means,
When the predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the switching unit refers to power supply states of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses, and An image forming apparatus that switches the power supply state of the function execution means that is set to the normal mode in at least one of the one or more other image forming apparatuses to the power saving mode. Job storage means for temporarily storing accepted jobs until the job execution means executes;
When the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit exceeds a predetermined amount, the one or more other image forming units are referred to by referring to the power supply states of the own device and the one or more other image forming devices. Starting device for selecting a starting device that can execute a function used to execute all of the stored jobs and has the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. A selection means;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, further comprising a start instruction unit that outputs a start instruction including the type of the temporarily stored job to the selected start apparatus. Job storage means for temporarily storing accepted jobs until the process execution means executes;
A mode switching request for transmitting a mode switching request including the temporarily stored job type to the one or more other image forming apparatuses when the processing amount of the job stored in the job storage unit exceeds a predetermined amount. Means,
When no job is stored in the job storage unit, when a mode switching request is received from any one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses, the power of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses With reference to the supply state, the number of function execution means that need to be switched from the power saving mode to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request among the at least one function execution means. Determining means for determining whether or not the apparatus is smaller than any one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses other than the instruction apparatus that has output the mode switching instruction;
When the determination means determines that the number of function execution means for switching to the normal mode is smaller than that of any of the other apparatuses, the switching means requests the mode switching request among the at least one function execution means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the function execution means used for executing the type of job included in the function execution means that is switched to the power saving mode is switched to the normal mode. A power supply state switching method executed in an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses,
Controlling at least one function execution unit that respectively executes at least one function of the image forming apparatus to execute a job;
For each of the at least one function execution means, switching a power supply state to either a normal mode or a power saving mode that consumes less power than the normal mode,
In the switching step, when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, a power table indicating a power supply state of each of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses is referred to. Switching the power supply state of the function execution unit, which is the at least one function execution unit and set to the normal mode in at least one of the one or more other image forming apparatuses, to the power saving mode. A power supply state switching method. A step of temporarily storing the received job from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job;
When the processing amount of the job stored in the temporarily storing step is equal to or larger than a predetermined amount, the other one or more images are referred to by referring to power supply states of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses. A step of selecting an activation device that can execute a function used to execute all of the stored jobs from among the forming devices and has the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. When,
The power supply state switching method according to claim 10, further comprising a step of outputting an activation instruction including the type of the temporarily stored job to the selected activation device. A step of temporarily storing the received job from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job;
Mode switching for transmitting a mode switching request including the type of the temporarily stored job to the one or more other image forming apparatuses when the processing amount of the job stored in the temporarily storing step exceeds a predetermined amount Sending a request;
When a job is not stored and a mode switching request is received from one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses, the power supply states of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses are referred to. The number of function execution units that need to be switched to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request among the at least one function execution unit is the one or more other image forming apparatuses. And determining whether or not the own device is smaller than any of the other devices other than the instruction device that has output the mode switching instruction,
In the switching step, when it is determined in the determining step that the number of function execution means for switching to the normal mode is smaller than that of any other apparatus, the mode switching is performed among the at least one function execution means. 11. The power supply state switching according to claim 10, further comprising the step of switching to a normal mode function executing means used for executing a job of the type included in the request and switched to the power saving mode. Method. A power supply state switching program executed by a computer that controls an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with one or more other image forming apparatuses,
Controlling at least one function execution unit that respectively executes at least one function of the image forming apparatus to execute a job;
For each of the at least one function execution means, causing the computer to execute a step of switching a power supply state to either a normal mode or a power saving mode with less power consumption than the normal mode,
In the switching step, when a predetermined condition for switching from the normal mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, a power table indicating a power supply state of each of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses is referred to. The power supply state of the function execution unit that is set to the normal mode in at least one of the one or more other image forming apparatuses among the at least one function execution unit is switched to the power saving mode. A power supply state switching program including steps. A step of temporarily storing the received job from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job;
When the processing amount of the job stored in the temporarily storing step is equal to or larger than a predetermined amount, the other one or more images are referred to by referring to power supply states of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses. A step of selecting an activation device that can execute a function used to execute all of the stored jobs from among the forming devices and has the smallest number of function execution means for switching from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. When,
The power supply state switching program according to claim 10, further causing the computer to execute a step of outputting a start instruction including the temporarily stored job type to the selected start device. A step of temporarily storing the received job from when the job is received until it is executed in the step of executing the job;
Mode switching for transmitting a mode switching request including the type of the temporarily stored job to the one or more other image forming apparatuses when the processing amount of the job stored in the temporarily storing step exceeds a predetermined amount Sending a request;
When a job is not stored and a mode switching request is received from one of the other one or more image forming apparatuses, the power supply states of the own apparatus and the one or more other image forming apparatuses are referred to. The number of function execution units that need to be switched to the normal mode in order to execute the type of job included in the mode switching request among the at least one function execution unit is the one or more other image forming apparatuses. And determining whether or not the device is smaller than any of the other devices other than the instruction device that has output the mode switching instruction, and further causing the computer to execute the step,
In the switching step, when it is determined in the determining step that the number of function execution means for switching to the normal mode is smaller than that of any other apparatus, the mode switching is performed among the at least one function execution means. 11. The power supply state switching according to claim 10, further comprising the step of switching to a normal mode function executing means used for executing a job of the type included in the request and switched to the power saving mode. program.

Images