JP2014087997A - Image processing device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a technology that is applied to an image processing device having a power-saving mode and that makes it possible to expect suppression of a long-term delay in a transition to the power-saving mode.SOLUTION: An MFP has as conditions for image processing a first condition and a second condition under which an error occurrence rate is lower than that under the first condition. The MFP has a power feed mode in which power is fed to components of its own device, and a power-saving mode in which the power consumption of the own device is decreased compared with that in the power feed mode. When a condition for a transition from the power feed mode to the power-saving mode is met, if an image processing unit is performing image processing, after the image processing unit completes the image processing, a transition is made from the power feed mode to the power-saving mode. However, in the case an error occurs, the transition is made to stand by. When the condition for a transition is met, if the image processing is in progress under the first condition, the MFP switches the conditions for image processing to select the second condition.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus having a power saving mode for reducing power consumption. More specifically, the present invention relates to control when a transition condition for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied.

  Conventionally, in an image processing apparatus, in order to realize power saving, a power supply mode in which power supply is not restricted is shifted to a power saving mode in which power supply to some components is restricted to reduce power consumption. There is.

  For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a document that discloses the power saving mode. This patent document 1 discloses a printing apparatus having a low power consumption mode (corresponding to a power saving mode) that suppresses power consumption in a standby state, and a user switches from a power supply mode to a low power consumption mode while the apparatus is operating. A technique for displaying a message indicating that the transition to the low power consumption mode is not possible when a transition instruction for transition is input is disclosed.

JP 2001-255968 A

  However, the conventional image processing apparatus described above has the following problems. In other words, since the image processing apparatus is restricted from shifting to the power saving mode by an active job, it may take time to shift to the power saving mode. For example, if an error occurs during image processing, the operation is not completed at least until the error is cleared. For this reason, a transition to the power saving mode is also awaited.

  The present invention has been made to solve the problems of the conventional image processing apparatus described above. That is, an object of the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus having a power saving mode, which can be expected to suppress a long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode.

  An image processing apparatus for solving this problem has, as image processing conditions, a first condition and a second condition having a lower error occurrence rate during image processing than the first condition. According to the image processing conditions, an image processing unit that performs image processing with sheet conveyance, a power supply mode that supplies power to each component of the own device, and the power consumption of the own device are compared with those in the power supply mode. And when the image processing unit is not performing image processing when the transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the power supply mode is changed from the power supply mode to the power saving mode. A transition unit that shifts to the power saving mode from the power supply mode after the image processing unit completes image processing when the image processing unit performs image processing when the image processing unit performs image processing; While an error has occurred, a standby unit that waits for the transition to the power saving mode by the transition unit, and when the transition condition is satisfied, if the image processing unit is performing image processing under the first condition, And a switching unit that switches the processing condition to the second condition.

  The image processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification has a first condition and a second condition as image processing conditions, and the first condition is satisfied when the transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. If image processing is in progress, the switching unit switches the image processing condition to a second condition with a low error rate. The second condition may be any condition that has a lower error rate than the first condition. For example, by reducing the sheet conveyance speed or shortening the sheet conveyance distance, the risk of jamming can be reduced. This corresponds to reducing the risk of running out of toner by switching to the toner save mode. In addition, the mode transition condition includes, for example, input of a mode transition command from the operation panel or PC, time designation, and the like. Note that the image processing performed by the image processing unit may be reading or printing.

  That is, in the image processing device disclosed in this specification, when the condition for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, if the image processing is being performed under the first condition, the error occurrence rate is higher than the first condition. Switch to a lower second condition. Therefore, after switching, an error is less likely to occur during image processing, and as a result, the possibility of an error occurring and waiting for a long time to recover from the error is reduced. Therefore, it is expected to suppress long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode.

  The second condition may be that the sheet conveyance speed is slower than the first condition. By reducing the sheet conveyance speed, the risk of jamming can be reduced and the error rate can be reduced.

  The image processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification includes a plurality of placement units for placing sheets, and a storage unit for storing information regarding an error occurrence rate of each placement unit, wherein the second condition is The error occurrence rate of the mounting unit to be used is preferably lower than the first condition. By using a placement unit with a low error rate, the error rate during image processing can be reduced. The placement unit may be a paper feed tray or a paper discharge tray.

  The image processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification may include a plurality of sheet conveyance paths, and the second condition may be that the length of the conveyance path is shorter than the first condition. By shortening the sheet transport distance, the risk of jamming can be reduced and the error rate can be reduced. Note that the conveyance path includes a conveyance path from the paper feed tray to the paper discharge tray and a reverse path for both sides.

  An image processing device disclosed in the present specification includes an operation unit that receives an input operation, a reception unit that receives a transition instruction for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode by an input operation to the operation unit, The switching unit may not switch the image processing condition to the second condition even if the transition condition is satisfied when the transition unit satisfies the transition condition because the receiving unit has received the transition instruction. When the user gives an instruction to shift to the power saving mode by operating the own device, it is estimated that the user is in the vicinity of the device. In that case, even if the image processing conditions are not switched, it can be expected that the user will immediately recover when an error occurs. As a result, it can be expected to suppress a long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode. The operation unit may be a mechanical button or key, or may be a button or key displayed on the liquid crystal screen.

  Further, the image processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification requests that the image processing unit waits near its own apparatus if the image processing unit is performing image processing under the first condition when the transition condition is satisfied. It is good to provide the request part to do. By making the user stand by in the vicinity of the apparatus, even if an error occurs, it can be expected that the user will immediately recover. As a result, it can be expected to suppress a long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode.

  Further, the present specification includes a detection unit that detects the remaining amount of consumables, a printing unit that performs a printing process for printing an image on a sheet using the consumables, and power to each component of the device. A power supply mode to be supplied and a power saving mode for reducing the power consumption of the device as compared with that in the power supply mode, and satisfying the transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode When the printing unit is not performing the printing process, the power supply mode is shifted to the power saving mode. When the printing unit is performing the printing process, the printing unit completes the printing process. A transition unit that shifts from the power supply mode to the power saving mode, a standby unit that waits for transition to the power saving mode by the transition unit when an error occurs, and when the transition condition is satisfied , The printing part is marked And a notification unit for notifying replenishment of the consumable when the remaining amount of the consumable is equal to or less than a predetermined value corresponding to an amount capable of completing the printing process being performed. An image processing apparatus is disclosed.

  According to the above image processing apparatus, if the remaining amount of consumables is low when the condition for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, an error due to a shortage of consumables occurs before the mode shifts. By informing the user early on that there is a possibility, it can be expected that the user will prepare for error resolution. Therefore, even if an error occurs, it can be expected to be resolved early. In addition, when the condition for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, replenishment of consumables can be expected by notifying the user that the remaining amount of consumables is low. If it is replenished, as a result, errors are less likely to occur during the printing process. Therefore, it is expected to suppress long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode. In addition, as a consumable item, a colorant or a sheet is applicable. The notification method includes, for example, message display and warning sound pronunciation.

  In addition, the image processing apparatus disclosed in the present specification includes a request unit that requests to wait near the own apparatus if the printing unit is executing a printing process when the transition condition is satisfied. Good. By making the user stand by in the vicinity of the apparatus, even if an error occurs, it can be expected that the user will immediately recover. As a result, it can be expected to suppress a long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to realize an image processing apparatus having a power saving mode that can be expected to suppress a long-term delay in shifting to the power saving mode.

1 is a perspective view showing an appearance of an MFP according to an embodiment. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the internal structure of an image formation part. It is a schematic sectional drawing which shows the internal structure of an image reading part. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the MFP. FIG. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of image processing conditions. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of a switch permission item. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the mode transfer process of a 1st form. It is a flowchart which shows the procedure of the mode transfer process of a 2nd form. It is explanatory drawing which shows the example of error occurrence rate information.

  DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Embodiments of an image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In the present embodiment, the present invention is applied to a multi function peripheral (MFP) having an image reading function and an image forming function.

[MFP configuration]
As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 100 according to the present embodiment includes an image forming unit 10 that prints an image on a sheet, an image reading unit 20 that reads an image of a document from the sheet, and an operation panel 40 that receives input from a user. Yes. The image reading unit 20 and the operation panel 40 are provided above the image forming unit 10.

  The image reading unit 20 includes a scanner unit 21 that reads an image, and an automatic document feeder (ADF) 22 that can be opened and closed above the scanner unit 21. The scanner unit 21 includes an image sensor 25. The image sensor 25 has optical elements arranged in a line.

  The operation panel 40 includes various buttons 41 such as a numeric keypad and a display unit 42 including a liquid crystal display. The operation panel 40 enables display of the operation status and input operation by the user. In addition to the operation panel 40, a power switch 45 that switches a power supply state is provided on the upper surface of the image forming unit 10.

  The MFP 100 has a power supply mode in which power is supplied to all components and a power saving mode in which power supply to some components is restricted to reduce power consumption as modes representing the power supply state. ing. When the power switch 45 is pressed by the user, the MFP 100 switches to the power saving mode if the power supply mode is selected, and switches to the power supply mode if the power saving mode is set. Details of each mode will be described later. The power switch 45 is an example of an operation unit.

  The MFP 100 is provided with paper feed trays 91 and 92 for placing sheets used for printing, and a paper discharge tray 94 for placing printed sheets. The paper feed tray 91 is provided as a standard equipment below the image forming unit 10. An optional paper feed tray 92 is additionally attached below the paper feed tray 91. The paper discharge tray 94 is opened above the paper feed tray 91.

[Configuration of image forming unit]
As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming unit 10 includes an electrophotographic process unit 50, a conveyance belt 7, and a fixing unit 8. The process unit 50 is arranged in parallel with process units corresponding to each color of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K), and can form a color image. In the process unit 50, each member for forming a toner image on each photoconductor and transferring it to a sheet is arranged around each photoconductor.

  Further, a conveyance path 11 and a reverse path 12 are formed in the MFP 100 as sheet conveyance paths. The MFP 100 includes a plurality of conveyance members for conveying the sheet along the conveyance path 11 and the reverse path 12. As the conveying member, a conveying belt 7, a paper feeding roller 71, a paper feeding roller 72, a paper discharging roller 76, and the like are provided. The conveyor belt 7 is rotated by belt rollers 73 and 74.

  Of the sheet transport paths, the transport path 11 is a path for forming an image on a sheet drawn from a selected one of the paper feed tray 91 and the paper feed tray 92 and discharging the sheet to the paper discharge tray 94. . The reversal path 12 is a path for reversing a sheet that has been printed on one side and printing on the back side during duplex printing. In FIG. 2, the conveyance path 11 is indicated by a one-dot chain line, and the reverse path 12 is indicated by a two-dot chain line.

  The paper feed roller 71 is a roller that pulls out a sheet from the paper feed tray 91. The paper feed roller 72 is a roller that pulls out a sheet from the paper feed tray 92. The paper discharge roller 76 is a roller for discharging the sheet to the paper discharge tray 94. The paper discharge roller 76 is a roller whose rotation direction can be changed. At the time of duplex printing, the sheet on which the toner image is formed and fixed on one side is pulled back into the apparatus by the paper discharge roller 76. The pulled-back sheet is reversed through the reversing path 12 and conveyed to the process unit 50 again.

  The printing process in the process unit 50 is an example of image processing that involves sheet conveyance, and the process unit 50 is an example of an image processing unit. The conveyance path 11 and the reverse path 12 are examples of a sheet conveyance path. The paper feed tray 91, the paper feed tray 92, and the paper discharge tray 94 are all examples of placement units. The process unit 50 is also an example of a printing unit that performs printing processing using toner and a sheet. Toner and sheet are examples of consumables used in the printing process.

  Note that the MFP 100 can control the moving speed of the conveyor belt 7 by the rotation speed of the drive motor that drives the belt roller 74. The MFP 100 has at least two stages of printing speeds of high speed printing and low speed printing. That is, the MFP 100 can change the sheet conveyance speed by the conveyance belt 7 and the like, the peripheral speed of the photosensitive member, and the processing speed in each part of the process unit, and can select and set the printing speed from at least two speeds. it can.

  The MFP 100 has a plurality of conveyance paths used for image processing. Specifically, there are a plurality of sheet conveyance paths in accordance with the selection of the paper feed location between the paper feed tray 91 and the paper feed tray 92, the selection of the printing method between single-sided printing and double-sided printing, and the like. The length of each sheet conveyance path is different. For example, the sheet conveyance length is longer when the sheet feeding tray 92 is selected than when the sheet feeding tray 91 is selected. Also, double-sided printing has a longer sheet transport length than single-sided printing.

[Configuration of Image Reading Unit]
As shown in FIG. 3, the image reading unit 20 includes an ADF 22 above the scanner unit 21. The scanner unit 21 includes transparent platen glasses 23 and 24 located on the upper surface thereof, and an image sensor 25 located therein. The image sensor 25 moves in the direction of arrow A in FIG. 3, that is, the direction orthogonal to the arrangement direction of the optical elements.

  Inside the ADF 22, a document transport path 26 (one-dot chain line in FIG. 3) and a reverse path 27 (two-dot chain line in FIG. 3) are formed. Further, the ADF 22 has a document placing tray 28 for placing a document before reading, and a document discharge tray 29 for placing a document that has been read. The document placed on the document placement tray 28 is transported through the transport path 26 and discharged to the document discharge tray 29. During the conveyance, the image of the original is read by the image sensor 25.

  The ADF 22 incorporates various flaps, switchback rollers, and the like, and can switch the document transport path between a transport path 26 and a reverse path 27. When performing double-sided reading, the document that has been drawn from the document placing tray 28 and has finished reading the first surface is reversed via the reversing path 27 and is conveyed to the conveying path 26 again. Thereby, the image reading unit 20 can read the images on both sides of the document. The document that has been read is placed on the document discharge tray 29.

  Note that the MFP 100 has at least two reading speeds of high speed reading and low speed reading. That is, the ADF 22 can change the document conveying speed in at least two stages by changing the rotation speed of a conveying roller or the like that conveys the document, and can read the image of the document at each speed. That is, the image reading unit 20 can select and set a reading speed from at least two stages of speeds.

  The image reading process using the ADF 22 is an image process that involves conveying a document. That is, the image reading unit 20 is also an example of an image processing unit. In this case, the document placement tray 28 and the document discharge tray 29 are examples of placement units. The conveyance path 26 and the reverse path 27 are examples of the sheet conveyance path.

[Electric configuration of MFP]
Next, the electrical configuration of the MFP 100 will be described. As illustrated in FIG. 4, the MFP 100 includes a control unit 30 that includes a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, and an NVRAM (nonvolatile RAM) 34. The control unit 30 includes an image forming unit 10, an image reading unit 20, an operation panel 40, an electrical switch 45, a network interface 37, a USB interface 38, a FAX interface 39, a toner remaining amount detection unit 57, The sheet remaining amount detection unit 58 is electrically connected.

  The CPU 31 executes arithmetic operations for realizing various functions such as an image reading function and an image forming function in the MFP 100, and is the center of control. The CPU 31 controls each component of the MFP 100 according to the control program read from the ROM 32 while storing the processing result in the RAM 33 or the NVRAM 34. The CPU 31 is an example of a transition unit, a standby unit, a switching unit, a reception unit, a request unit, a detection unit, and a notification unit.

  The ROM 32 stores various control programs for controlling the MFP 100, image processing programs, various setting values, and the like. The RAM 33 is used as a work area when various control programs and image processing programs are executed. Alternatively, the RAM 33 is used as a storage area for temporarily storing image data of a document read by the image reading unit 20 and image data sent via various interfaces 37, 38, 39, and the like. The NVRAM 34 stores various setting values and the like.

  The network interface 37 is connected to an information processing apparatus such as a computer, for example. The USB interface 38 is connected to a peripheral device such as a USB memory, for example. The FAX interface 39 is connected to a public telephone line. The MFP 100 can perform data communication with a connected device via the network interface 37 and the USB interface 38. The MFP 100 can transmit and receive FAX data via the FAX interface 39.

  The toner remaining amount detection unit 57 detects the remaining amount of toner in the process unit 50 for each color. The toner remaining amount detection unit 57 can be implemented by, for example, an optical sensor or a weight sensor provided at a location where toner is stored. Alternatively, the toner remaining amount detecting unit 57 may estimate the remaining amount of toner based on the number of printed sheets from when the toner is full. The sheet remaining amount detection unit 58 detects the remaining amount of sheets in each of the sheet feeding trays 91 or 92. The sheet remaining amount detection unit 58 includes, for example, a weight sensor disposed in each tray, and estimates the remaining sheet amount from the sheet type set in each tray and the detected weight. Good.

[Image processing conditions]
As described above, the MFP 100 has a plurality of image processing conditions such as a sheet conveyance speed and a sheet conveyance path. These image processing conditions include a first condition with a high error rate and a second condition with a low error rate as shown in FIG. In the MFP 100, when the image processing is executed, either the first condition or the second condition is set for each item of the image processing condition. Examples of the image processing condition items include a printing speed, a reading speed, a printing method, a reading method, a paper feeding location, and toner save.

  For example, as described above, the MFP 100 has at least two speeds for the printing speed during printing and the reading speed during image reading. In high-speed printing and reading, a printed matter can be obtained in a short time, but an error is more likely to occur than in low-speed printing. Accordingly, the first condition regarding the printing speed and the reading speed is “high speed”, and the second condition is “low speed”.

  Further, for example, the MFP 100 can select and set double-sided printing and single-sided printing during printing. Further, when reading an image, it is possible to select and set double-sided scanning or single-sided scanning. In double-sided printing and double-sided reading, as described above, the sheet conveyance path is long because the sheet is reversed and further conveyed. Therefore, there is a high possibility that an error will occur compared to single-sided printing or single-sided reading. Accordingly, the first condition regarding the printing method and the reading method is “double-sided”, and the second condition is “single-sided”.

  The paper feed tray 91 that is a standard tray is disposed closer to the process unit 50 than the paper feed tray 92 that is an optional tray. Therefore, the length of the sheet conveyance path for printing is shorter for the sheet fed from the sheet feed tray 91 than for the sheet fed from the sheet feed tray 92. The longer the transport path, the more likely it is that an error will occur along the way. Accordingly, the first condition regarding the paper feed location is “option tray”, and the second condition is “standard tray”.

  Further, the image forming unit 10 of the MFP 100 can selectively execute toner save printing for printing while saving the amount of toner used and non-toner save printing for printing without saving. In toner save printing, the amount of toner used as a consumable is less than non-toner save printing. Therefore, in toner save printing, there is a low possibility that an error will occur. Accordingly, the first condition regarding toner saving is “not implemented”, and the second condition is “executed”.

[action mode]
Next, the operation mode of MFP 100 will be described. The MFP 100 has a plurality of operation modes in different places where power is supplied. The MFP 100 has, as operation modes, a power supply mode that supplies power to at least each component of the self apparatus, and a power saving mode that reduces the power consumption of the self apparatus compared to the power supply mode.

  The power saving mode is a mode in which power is not supplied to some of the components of the own device. For example, in this mode, power supply to members that consume a large amount of power, such as the fixing unit 8 and the image sensor 25, is stopped, and power is supplied to other portions. Alternatively, the power saving mode is a mode in which power is supplied only to locations for operation on the operation panel 40 and data reception to the various interfaces 37, 38, 39, and power is not supplied to other locations. May be. In the power saving mode, the MFP 100 cannot execute image processing such as printing and image reading.

  The condition for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is that, for example, a condition set in advance is satisfied by detecting the pressing of the power switch 45 by the user, receiving a remote instruction from a PC or the like, or specifying a time. Then, the MFP 100 shifts from the power supply mode to the power saving mode when at least one of these transfer conditions is satisfied during the operation in the power supply mode. If the MFP 100 is executing image processing such as printing when the mode transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied, the MFP 100 shifts the mode after completing the image processing.

  On the other hand, in the power saving mode, the MFP 100 supplies power when conditions such as detection of pressing of the power switch 45 by the user, operation on the operation panel 40, data reception to any one of the interfaces 37, 38, and 39 are satisfied. Transition to mode.

  If an error occurs during the transition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode until the mode transition is completed, the MFP 100 waits for the mode transition during the error. That is, the mode transition is waited until the error is resolved, and the mode is transitioned after the error is resolved. Examples of errors include sheet jam, out of sheet, and out of toner. Note that the MFP 100 processes a job that has not been started even before the transition to the power saving mode even if it has been received when the condition for shifting the mode from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied. Not performed.

[Switching image processing conditions]
As described above, when an error occurs before the completion of the mode transition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode, the MFP 100 waits for the mode transition until the error is resolved. When an error occurs after satisfying the mode transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode, there is a possibility that an appropriate action by the user cannot be taken. In other words, if an error occurs after satisfying the mode transition condition, it may take a long time to recover from the error, and it may take a long time before the mode transition.

  Therefore, when the mode transition condition is satisfied, the MFP 100 switches the image processing condition to the second condition with a low error occurrence rate if image processing is being performed under the first condition. However, depending on the contents of the image processing, there are image processing conditions in which switching from the first condition to the second condition is not preferable. Therefore, in MFP 100, conditions for allowing switching are determined in advance according to the type of image processing being executed.

  For example, FIG. 6 shows an example of whether or not switching is possible for each item for the case where the image processing being executed is monochrome copying, FAX reception, or color printing. In FIG. 6, “◯” indicates items that allow switching, and “×” indicates items that do not permit switching.

  For example, when the image processing being executed is a monochrome copy, switching is allowed for all six items. For example, when the first condition “high speed” is set as the printing speed, the second condition may be switched to “low speed” (see FIG. 5). Similarly, the items for which the first condition is set may be switched to the second condition for each item of the reading speed, the printing method, the reading method, the paper feeding location, and the toner save.

  On the other hand, when the image processing being executed is FAX reception, switching between the printing method and toner save is not permitted. If either the printing method or the toner save condition is changed, there is a high possibility that information is lost or image quality is deteriorated. For FAX reception data, it may be difficult to retransmit the data. Therefore, it is preferable not to allow switching of conditions for the printing method and toner save. Further, when the image processing being executed is color printing, it is preferable not to perform toner save printing. In addition, since the image reading operation is not executed in FAX reception or printing processing, there is no information on whether or not the reading speed and the reading method are acceptable.

[Mode transition processing]
[First embodiment]
Hereinafter, the procedure of the mode transition process for performing the mode transition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This mode transition process is executed by the CPU 31 when the transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is satisfied.

  In the mode transition process of the first embodiment, first, it is determined whether or not a printing operation is being performed (S101). If the printing operation is not in progress (S101: No), the mode can be shifted as it is. Therefore, the shutdown process is performed (S103). For example, the image of the operation panel 40 is returned to the initial screen, the rotation of the fan that cools the inside of the device itself is stopped, and the rotation of various roller members is stopped. Subsequently, the mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the printing operation is being performed (S101: Yes), the shutdown process is not immediately executed. The printing operation is continued until the current job is completed, and then the shutdown process is executed. However, since the transition condition from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is already satisfied, it is desirable to suppress the possibility of an error occurring after this. When an error occurs, the MFP 100 waits for a mode transition, and may continue to wait for a user's action in the power supply mode.

  Therefore, it is determined whether or not the mode transition condition is satisfied by pressing the power switch 45 (S107). That is, it is determined whether or not a transition instruction for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode is received by a user's direct operation on the MFP 100. When it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied by pressing the power switch 45 (S107: Yes), it is estimated that there is a user near the MFP 100. Therefore, a display requesting that the user wait in the vicinity of the MFP 100 is performed (S108).

  If the user is waiting nearby, even if an error occurs, it can be expected that the user will immediately receive treatment. Therefore, priority is given to productivity and image quality, and printing is continued as it is without switching the set image processing conditions (S109). When printing is completed, a shutdown process is performed (S103), and then the mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the mode transition condition is satisfied other than by pressing the power switch 45 (S107: No), there is a high possibility that the user is not nearby. Therefore, first, the remaining number of prints of the print job currently being executed is acquired (S111). Then, it is determined whether or not the remaining number of prints acquired in S111 is larger than a predetermined threshold (S112).

  For example, if there are about 1 to 2 sheets remaining, there is a high possibility that printing can be completed without causing an error. If the remaining number of prints is less than or equal to the threshold (S112: No), it means that printing will be completed soon. Therefore, printing continues with the set image processing conditions (S109). When printing is completed, a shutdown process is performed (S103), and then the mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the remaining number of prints exceeds the threshold (S112: Yes), the currently set image processing conditions are acquired (S114). Then, it is determined whether or not the current image processing condition includes a switchable item (S115). When an error occurs, the process waits for the transition to the power saving mode. Therefore, it is preferable to finish the remaining printing safely by switching to an image processing condition with a low error occurrence rate. However, if image processing conditions with a low error rate have already been set, there is no room for switching the image processing conditions.

  That is, if the current image processing condition does not include a switchable item (S115: No), printing is continued under the image processing condition as it is (S109). When printing is completed, a shutdown process is performed (S103), and then the mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  On the other hand, if the current image processing condition includes a switchable item (S115: Yes), the switchable item shown in FIG. 6 is referenced to acquire the switchable item in the print operation being executed. (S117). For example, if the printing being executed is a monochrome copy, all items can be switched. If there is an item for which the first condition is set as the current condition, the item is switched to the second condition (S118). As a result, the possibility of an error occurring before the end of the image processing operation is kept low.

  When printing is completed, a shutdown process is performed (S103), and then the mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  As described above in detail, according to MFP 100 of the first embodiment, the first condition and the second condition with a lower error rate than the first condition are provided, and the power supply mode is changed to the power saving mode. If printing is being executed under the first condition when the transition condition is satisfied, the second condition is switched. By switching the image processing conditions, errors are less likely to occur, so it can be expected that printing can be completed and the mode can be changed. As a result, it can be expected to suppress a long time before the mode transition.

[Second form]
Next, the procedure of the mode transition process of the second embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the processing in the second mode, the operations in S101, S103, S105, S107, S108, S109, and S111 are the same as those in the first mode. The same processes as those in the first embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In the second embodiment, after the remaining number of prints is acquired in S111, the remaining toner amount of the process unit 50 is acquired using the remaining toner amount detection unit 57 (S212). Subsequently, it is determined whether the remaining amount of toner is sufficient for printing the remaining number of prints acquired in S111 (S213). When it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is not sufficient (S213: No), a notification for prompting toner replenishment is made (S214). This notification may be displayed, for example, on at least one of the PC that has transmitted the print job, the PC that has transmitted the mode change instruction, and the PC of the system administrator.

  After the notification in S214, or when it is determined that the remaining amount of toner is sufficient (S213: Yes), the remaining amount of the sheet is acquired using the remaining sheet amount detection unit 58 (S215). . Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the remaining amount of the sheet is an amount sufficient for printing the remaining number of prints acquired in S111 (S216). When it is determined that the remaining amount of the sheet is not sufficient (S216: No), a notification for urging the sheet to be replenished is performed (S217). The notification destination is the same as in the case of the remaining amount of toner.

  After the notification of S217 or when it is determined that the remaining amount of the sheet is sufficient (S216: Yes), printing is executed (S109), shutdown processing is performed (S103), The mode is shifted from the power supply mode to the power saving mode (S105). When the mode transition is completed, the mode transition process is terminated.

  As described above in detail, according to the MFP 100 of the second embodiment, when the mode transition condition is satisfied, the remaining amount of toner or sheet is checked, and is sufficient to end printing in progress. If it is determined that the amount is not enough, a supplement is notified. In other words, it can be expected that the user will be prepared to resolve the error by notifying the user early of the possibility that an error due to lack of toner or sheets may occur during printing. Therefore, even if an error occurs, it can be expected to be resolved early. In addition, when the mode transition condition is satisfied, the toner or sheet can be replenished by notifying the user that the remaining amount of toner or sheet is low. If replenished, the occurrence of errors due to lack of toner and sheets can be suppressed. As a result, it can be expected to suppress a long time before the mode transition.

  Note that this embodiment is merely an example, and does not limit the present invention. Therefore, the present invention can naturally be improved and modified in various ways without departing from the gist thereof. For example, the present invention is not limited to an MFP, and can be applied as long as it has at least one of an image forming function and an image reading function, such as a printer, a copier, a scanner, and a FAX. The image forming method of the image forming unit 10 is not limited to the electrophotographic method, and may be an ink jet method. Alternatively, a device dedicated to monochrome images may be used.

  Further, for example, the first condition and the second condition are determined based on the length of the transport path as the paper feed tray condition, but are determined based on the error occurrence rate when each paper feed tray is used. May be. In that case, as shown in FIG. 9, the NVRAM 34 may store error occurrence rate information 35 that is information relating to the error occurrence rate for each paper feed tray. Here, the error occurrence rates of the paper feed tray 91 and the paper feed tray 92, which are trays that can be switched to each other, are stored. Therefore, the MFP 100 may calculate the error occurrence rate of the paper feed tray, which is a sheet placement unit, for each paper feed tray and update the error occurrence rate information 35 every time printing processing is performed.

  By referring to the error occurrence rate information 35, the MFP 100 can grasp the level of error occurrence between when the paper is fed from the paper feed tray 91 and when the paper is fed from the paper feed tray 92, for example. Then, the MFP 100 sets, as a first condition, a sheet having a high error occurrence rate and a sheet having a low error condition as the second condition. That is, in the illustrated error occurrence rate information 35, since the error rate is higher in the paper feed tray 92, the first condition is the paper feed tray 92 and the second condition is the paper feed tray 91. Note that the error occurrence rate is a variable value, and which tray is the second condition is changed as needed depending on the error occurrence rate. The error occurrence rate information 35 is an example of a storage unit.

  Further, for example, the processing of the first embodiment can be applied to an image processing operation that does not involve printing. For example, if the image reading process is in progress, it is preferable to determine Yes in S101. In that case, the remaining number of read sheets may be acquired in S111, and the remaining number of read sheets may be compared with a threshold value in S112. For example, the original placement tray 28 of the ADF 22 may be provided with a weight sensor, and the remaining number of readings may be estimated from the detected weight. Alternatively, a sensor for detecting the presence or absence of a document on the document placing tray 28 is provided, and if a change from the presence of a document to the absence of the document is detected when the leading edge of the document is drawn, the last one is detected. You may judge. Further, the image processing operation may include a FAX data reception operation.

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, when pressing of the power switch 45 is detected (S107: Yes), the user is only requested to wait and the image processing condition is not switched. The condition may be switched within the range. That is, S107 and S108 are not necessary.

  For example, in the first embodiment, the remaining number of prints is acquired and compared with the threshold value (S111 and 112 in FIG. 7), but these processes may not be performed. In that case, if it is not the input of the power switch 45 (S107: No), then the current condition is acquired (S114).

  For example, the items of the image processing conditions having the first condition and the second condition are not limited to the above example, and there may be more items or fewer items. There should be at least one item. For example, if the apparatus has a plurality of paper discharge trays, the setting of the paper discharge location may be added to the item. In addition to the first condition and the second condition, there may be an item having a further stage.

  Also, jobs that have been received and have not started printing when the conditions for shifting from the power supply mode to the power saving mode are satisfied may be printed before shifting to the power saving mode. In that case, it is preferable to switch the image processing condition to the second condition within the allowable range in the same manner for subsequent jobs.

  The processing disclosed in the embodiments may be executed by a single CPU, a plurality of CPUs, hardware such as an ASIC, or a combination thereof. Further, the processing disclosed in the embodiment can be realized in various modes such as a recording medium or a method recording a program for executing the processing.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image formation part 11,26 Conveyance path | route 12,27 Inversion path | route 20 Image reading part 28 Document loading tray 29 Document discharge tray 31 CPU
34 NVRAM
45 Power switch 91, 92 Paper feed tray 94 Paper output tray 100 MFP

Claims (8)

The image processing conditions include a first condition and a second condition that has a lower error rate during image processing than the first condition, and performs image processing with sheet conveyance according to the set image processing conditions. An image processing unit;
A power supply mode for supplying power to each component of the own device; and a power saving mode for reducing the power consumption of the own device as compared with the power supply mode. When the image processing unit does not perform image processing when the transition condition to the mode is satisfied, the image processing unit shifts from the power supply mode to the power saving mode, and the image processing unit performs image processing. A transition unit that transitions from the power supply mode to the power saving mode after the image processing unit completes image processing;
During an error occurrence, a standby unit that waits for the transition to the power saving mode by the transition unit;
A switching unit for switching the image processing condition to the second condition if the image processing unit is performing image processing under the first condition when the transition condition is satisfied;
An image processing apparatus comprising: The image processing apparatus according to claim 1,
The second condition is that the sheet conveying speed is slower than the first condition. In the image processing device according to claim 1 or 2,
A plurality of placement portions for placing sheets;
A storage unit for storing information on the error rate of each mounting unit;
With
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second condition is that an error occurrence rate of a mounting unit to be used is lower than the first condition. In the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
Provide multiple sheet transport paths,
The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the second condition is that the length of the transport path is shorter than the first condition. In the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 4,
An operation unit that accepts input operations;
A receiving unit that receives a transition instruction to shift from the power supply mode to the power saving mode by an input operation to the operation unit;
The switching unit does not switch the image processing condition to the second condition even if the transition condition is satisfied when the transition unit satisfies the transition condition because the reception unit has received the transition instruction. An image processing apparatus. In the image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5,
An image processing apparatus comprising: a request unit that requests that the image processing unit wait in the vicinity of its own device if the image processing unit is performing image processing under the first condition when the transition condition is satisfied. A detector that detects the remaining amount of consumables;
A printing unit that performs a printing process for printing an image on a sheet using the consumables;
A power supply mode for supplying power to each component of the own device; and a power saving mode for reducing the power consumption of the own device as compared with the power supply mode. When the condition for shifting to the mode is satisfied and the printing unit is not performing the printing process, the power supply mode is shifted to the power saving mode, and the printing unit is performing the printing process. A transition unit that shifts from the power supply mode to the power saving mode after the printing unit completes the printing process;
During an error occurrence, a standby unit that waits for the transition to the power saving mode by the transition unit;
If the printing unit is executing print processing when the transition condition is satisfied, the consumable item is less than or equal to a predetermined value corresponding to an amount by which the print process being executed can be completed. A notification section for notifying the supplementation of
An image processing apparatus comprising: The image processing apparatus according to claim 7,
An image processing apparatus comprising: a request unit that requests to stand by near the own device if the printing unit is executing print processing when the transition condition is satisfied.

Images