JP2016145995A - Power supply control device, image processing device, and power supply control program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the possibility that a heat source is erroneously detected as a user in comparison with a case that presence or absence of a heat source is simply detected.SOLUTION: An infrared array sensor 28IR in which a plurality of elements for detecting a heat source are arranged horizontally and vertically in a two-dimensional matrix is applied as a first human sensor 28. A detection part 28A is a thermopile element for detecting a heat source, and formed in a shape of 8×8 (64 elements) two-dimensional matrix to have multiple pixels. A detection result determination part 60 determines the presence of a person from temperature distribution as a basic pattern on the basis of a temperature distribution-state collation table. On the basis of the determination of the basic pattern, a motion state of the person is determined from an applied pattern, and transmitted to a monitoring control part 24 through a state information output part 64 to determine the necessity of transition from a sleep mode to a standby mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

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

  Another means for automating power supply control for a device to be supplied with power is human sensor control.

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

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

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes that the UI (user interface) display is turned off when it is determined that there is no person by human detection.

  Further, in Patent Document 3, the human body detection sensor that needs to be driven in the energy saving mode is time-division driven, and when a human body is detected, the time division cycle is shortened, etc. It is described to save energy. Further, Patent Document 3 describes that when the device is in the apparatus, the human body detection sensor is stopped to further save energy.

JP 05-054771 A JP 2002-006686 A JP 2002-071833 A

  The present invention provides a power supply control device, an image processing device, and a power supply control program that can reduce the possibility of erroneous detection that a heat source is a user compared to simply detecting the presence or absence of a heat source. Is the purpose.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a load that executes a predetermined process by receiving power supplied from a power supply unit, and a heat source detection element that outputs an electric signal corresponding to at least the amount of heat received from the heat source. There is a moving body including a two-dimensional array type heat source detection means having a plurality of pixels arranged vertically and horizontally, including a user who uses the load and is set as a detection area around the load. Moving body detection means for detecting whether or not the power supply, and at least the load, power supply state for receiving power from the power supply unit, or power supply for transitioning to a power cut-off state not receiving power supply from the power supply unit The power supply by comparing the detection information by the state transition control means and the moving body detection means and the timing information of a predetermined timing means with reference information set for each. And determining a transition timing decision means a transition timing of state transition control means, a has.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the moving direction of the heat source is analyzed based on an electric signal corresponding to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detecting means. The transition time determination means compares the result analyzed by the analysis means with the reference information to determine whether the heat source is a moving body and is close to the load. judge.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the contour of the heat source is analyzed based on an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detection means. The transition time determination means further comprises an analysis means, and compares the result analyzed by the analysis means with the reference information to determine whether or not the outline of the heat source is humanoid. Determine the presence or absence.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the moving body detecting means detects a user who faces the load at a close distance. Further comprising means for setting the order of receiving power supply in cooperation from the two-dimensional array heat source detection means to the user detection means, and always setting the two-dimensional array heat source detection means to a power supply state. .

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the fourth aspect, the detection area of the two-dimensional array heat source detection means is set to include the detection area of the user detection means.

  The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the user detecting means includes a light projecting unit and a light receiving unit, and receives light from the light projecting unit. It is a reflection type detection means which discriminate | determines the presence or absence of a user by whether it receives in a part.

The invention according to claim 7 is the invention according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the two-dimensional array type is based on the operation status of the load and the detection status of the user detection means. Controls power supply to the heat source detection means.
The power supply control device according to any one of claims 4 to 6.

  The invention according to claim 8 includes, in the invention according to any one of claims 4 to 6, at least a period during which a user is detected by the user detection means, The power supply to the two-dimensional array heat source detection means is cut off for a predetermined period after the user is not detected.

  The invention according to claim 9 is based on the electrical signal according to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detection means in the invention according to any one of claims 4 to 8. The power supply to the user detecting means is cut off when it is found that at least the moving body moves away from the load based on the analysis result of the analyzing means analyzing means for analyzing the contour of the heat source.

  The invention according to claim 10 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the load operates in response to power supply and executes a predetermined process. It is classified into a processing unit and an instruction unit that selectively instructs at least the processing contents to the plurality of processing units, and the detection result by the moving body detection means is analyzed as a mode that is shifted in the power cut-off state. A sleep mode for supplying power to the monitoring control unit, and an awake mode for supplying power to the instruction unit as necessary, and the processing unit is started from the sleep mode as a mode to be transitioned in the power supply state A warm-up mode, which is a preparation stage for standby, a standby mode in which power is supplied to the processing unit at a lower level than during normal operation, and power during normal operation for the processing unit Comprising a plurality of modes including a running mode for supplying, transitions mode according to the processing conditions.

  An eleventh aspect of the invention includes the power supply control device according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, wherein the load is based on an image reading unit that reads an image from a document image and image information. An image forming unit that forms an image on recording paper, a facsimile communication control unit that transmits an image to a transmission destination under a predetermined communication procedure, a user interface unit that performs information reception notification with a user, and a user And at least one of user identification devices for identifying the user, performs image processing in cooperation with each other based on an instruction from the user, and the moving body detection means includes the user interface This is an image processing apparatus provided with reference to the installation position of the section or user identification device.

  The invention described in claim 12 is a power supply control program for causing a computer to execute as the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, the possibility of erroneous detection that the heat source is a user can be reduced as compared with the case where the presence or absence of the heat source is simply detected.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the two-dimensional array type heat source detection means can detect the moving direction of the heat source.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the two-dimensional array heat source detection means can detect the contour of the heat source.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to coordinate power supply from the two-dimensional array heat source detection means to the user detection means.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the detection areas of the plurality of detection means can be correlated.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, the detection accuracy can be improved as compared with the case where this configuration is not provided.

  According to invention of Claim 7, the electric power supply period to a two-dimensional array type heat source detection means can be shortened.

  According to invention of Claim 8, the electric power supply period to a two-dimensional array type heat source detection means can be shortened.

  According to invention of Claim 9, the electric power supply period to a user detection means can be decreased.

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

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, when this configuration does not have the situation determination capability of the mobile body detection means that can be an information source for load power supply control for the purpose of improving energy saving and convenience The energy saving and convenience can be improved as a whole device. Moreover, compared with the case where the presence or absence of a heat source is simply detected, the possibility of erroneous detection that the heat source is a user can be reduced.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, when this configuration does not have the situation determination capability of the mobile body detection means that can be an information source for load power supply control for the purpose of improving energy saving and convenience The energy saving and convenience can be improved as a whole device.

1 is a connection diagram of a communication network including an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image processing apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for each function of a control system of a main controller and a power supply device according to the present embodiment. 5 is a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus. 1 is a plan view showing an image processing apparatus and its periphery according to the present embodiment. (A) is a perspective view which shows the external appearance of the infrared array sensor applied as a 1st human sensor, (B) is the front view of the detection part of an infrared array sensor, and the functional block diagram of an analysis part. (A) is a front view showing a detection region of the infrared area sensor according to the present embodiment, (B) is a temperature distribution diagram (basic pattern) of the detection region of FIG. 8 (A), and (C) is FIG. ) Is a chart showing the stage of temperature distribution. It is a control chart (application pattern 1) which shows a person's detection state by the infrared area sensor which concerns on this Embodiment, a determination result, and a response | compatibility. It is a control chart (application pattern 2) which shows a person's detection state by the infrared area sensor which concerns on this Embodiment, a determination result, and a response | compatibility. It is a control chart (application pattern 3) which shows a person's detection state by the infrared area sensor which concerns on this Embodiment, a determination result, and a response | compatibility. It is a control diagram which shows the preliminary | backup monitoring state and this monitoring state of the infrared area sensor which concerns on a modification.

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

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

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

  FIG. 2 shows an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

  The image processing apparatus 10 is covered with a housing 10A, and a door that can be opened and closed is provided at an appropriate place. As an example, the front door 10B of FIG. 2 is illustrated, but there may be doors on the left and right side surfaces, for example. The door 10B is opened when an operator extends his / her hand inside the apparatus, such as a paper jam, replacement of consumables, and periodic inspection, and is closed during normal processing.

  On the opening / closing operation locus of the door 10B, an opening / closing detection switch 14A for detecting the opening / closing state of the door 10B is provided. This open / close detection switch 14A is an essential member for the interlock portion 14 shown in FIG. When the interlock section 14 determines that the door 10B is opened based on an output signal from the open / close detection switch 14A, a relay switch 14RLY provided in the interlock section 14 and whose contact is switched by a mechanical operation is provided. By operating, the power supply from the outside is cut off (the power supply from a commercial power supply 242 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) described later is cut off).

  The relay switch 14RYL includes a switch unit that switches the contact point and a coil unit that is disposed to face the switch unit. A circuit is incorporated in the coil section so that no current flows or flows in accordance with an output signal from the open / close detection switch 14A (primary circuit). The contact of the switch unit is switched by a mechanical operation between when a current flows through the coil unit and when the current does not flow, and the power supply line (secondary circuit) is connected or cut off.

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

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

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

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

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

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

  The network line network 20 is connected to the main controller 200. A facsimile communication control circuit 236, an image reading unit 238, an image forming unit 240, and a UI touch panel 216 are connected to the main controller 200 via buses 33A to 33D such as a data bus and a control bus, respectively. In other words, the main controller 200 is the main body, and each processing unit of the image processing apparatus 10 is controlled. Note that a UI touch panel backlight unit (see FIG. 4) may be attached to the UI tile panel 216.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a power supply device 202, and is connected to the main controller 200 via a bus 33E. The power supply device 202 is supplied with power from the commercial power supply 242. The power supply device 202 includes power supply lines 35 </ b> A to 35 </ b> D that supply power independently to the main controller 200, the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, the image forming unit 240, and the UI touch panel 216. Yes. For this reason, the main controller 200 individually supplies power to each processing unit (device) (power supply mode) or shuts off the power supply (sleep mode) to enable so-called partial power saving control.

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

(Functional block diagram with a partial power-saving configuration)
FIG. 4 shows a processing unit controlled by the main controller 200 (sometimes referred to as “load”, “device”, “module”, etc.), a main controller 200, and a power source for supplying power to each device. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram mainly using a power supply line of the device 202. FIG. In the present embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 can supply or not supply power in units of processing units (partial power saving).

  The partial power saving in units of processing units is an example, and the processing units may be classified into several groups to control power savings in units of groups, or the processing units may be collectively controlled to save power. .

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

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

  The timer circuit 220 counts time as a trigger for putting the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 into a power saving state (power supply non-supply state) (hereinafter, “ Sometimes called system timer).

  The main controller 200 and each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are supplied with power from the power supply device 202 (see the dotted line in FIG. 4). In FIG. 4, the power supply line is shown by one line (dotted line), but in reality it is two to three wires.

[Power supply device 202]
As shown in FIG. 4, the input power supply line 244 drawn from the commercial power supply 242 is connected to the main switch 246. When the main switch 246 is turned on, power can be supplied to the first power supply unit 248 and the second power supply unit 250 via the interlock unit 14.

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

  On the other hand, a first sub power switch 256 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-1”) is interposed in the power line 254 connected to the second power unit 250. This SW-1 is preferably a relay switch that involves a mechanical operation in the contact switching operation, and the power supply control circuit 252 controls on / off. The SW-1 corresponds to a relay switch 14RLY provided in the interlock unit 14.

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

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

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

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

  The facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 264 may be referred to as a fourth sub power switch 274 (hereinafter “SW-4”) with the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources. ) To the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the image forming unit 240.

  The UI touch panel power supply unit 266 uses a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) and a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as input sources, and a fifth sub power switch 276 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-5”). Via the UI touch panel 216 (including the backlight unit 216BL). Note that power may be supplied from the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 to the original functions of the UI touch panel 216 (functions excluding the backlight unit 216BL).

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

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

(Supervisory control for state transition of image processing device)
Here, the main controller 200 of the present embodiment may partially stop its function so as to achieve the minimum necessary power consumption. Alternatively, the power supply may be stopped including most of the main controller 200. These may be collectively referred to as “sleep mode (power saving mode)” (see FIG. 5).

  The sleep mode can be shifted, for example, by starting a system timer when image processing is completed. That is, the power supply is stopped when a predetermined time elapses after the system timer is started. If there is any operation (hard key operation, etc.) before a predetermined time (for example, corresponding to step 104 in FIG. 9) elapses, the timer count to the sleep mode is naturally canceled, The system timer is started from the end of the next image processing.

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

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

  In addition, a power saving control button 26 is connected to the I / O 210 of the main controller 200, and power saving can be canceled by a user operating the power saving control button 26 during power saving. The power saving control button 26 may be operated when power is supplied to the processing unit, thereby forcibly cutting off the power supply to the processing unit and setting the power saving state. Good.

  Here, in order to monitor in the sleep mode, it is preferable to supply the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit to the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit in addition to the power saving monitoring control unit 24 while the power is being saved. That is, even in the sleep mode in which the power is not supplied, there is a case where the power is not more than a predetermined power (for example, 0.5 W or less) and is supplied with the power necessary for determining whether to supply power. is there. The power supply source at this time is not limited to the commercial power source 242, but may be a storage battery, a solar battery, a charger charged when power is supplied from the commercial power source 242, or the like.

  In addition, in a specific period of the sleep mode (in the awake mode (awk) shown in FIG. 5), a minimum necessary power supply mainly including an input system such as the UI touch panel 216 and the IC card reader 217 is included (the backlight unit 216BL is installed). It is preferable to remove or reduce the illuminance than usual).

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

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are installed in the power saving monitoring control unit 24, and the user operates the power saving control button 26 in the sleep mode. Before pressing (pressing etc.), it is detected by a human sensor (first human sensor 28, second human sensor 30) and power supply is restarted at an early stage, and the user operates the power saving control button 26. So that it can be used faster than it can be used. Although the power saving control button 26, the first human sensor 28, and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, all the monitoring is performed only by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It is also possible to perform.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 include detection units 28A and 30A and circuit board units 28B and 30B, and the circuit board units 28B and 30B The sensitivity of the signals detected by the detection units 28A and 30A is adjusted and an output signal is generated.

  The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are “human feeling”, but this is a proper noun according to the present embodiment, and at least a person detects (“detection”). In other words, it also includes detection of a moving body other than a person. Therefore, in the following, the detection target of the human sensor may be referred to as “person”, but in the future, a robot or the like that executes on behalf of the person is also a detection target range. On the other hand, when there is a special sensor that can be detected by identifying a person, the special sensor can be applied. Hereinafter, a moving body, a person, a user, and the like are treated as synonymous as objects to be detected by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, and are distinguished as necessary.

(First human sensor 28)
The specification of the first human sensor 28 according to the present embodiment is to detect the movement of the moving body around the image processing apparatus 10 (for example, in a range of 1 m to 5 m).

  In the present embodiment, two-dimensional array type heat source detection means (infrared array sensor 28IR (see FIG. 7)) in which a plurality of elements for detecting a heat source are arranged two-dimensionally vertically and horizontally is applied as the first human sensor 28. doing. Hereinafter, the configuration of the infrared array sensor 28IR applied as the first human sensor 28 will be described in detail with reference to FIG. Note that the block diagram of the control function system shown in FIG. 7B does not limit the hardware configuration, but blocks the signal processing output from the infrared array sensor 28IR by function.

  As shown in FIG. 7A, the infrared array sensor 28IR includes a detection unit 28A and a circuit board unit 28B (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “analysis unit 28B”) in which the detection unit 28A is attached in the center. I have.

  28 A of detection parts have an element which detects a heat source. The element for detecting the heat source is a thermopile element, and this thermopile element is 8 (vertical) × 8 (horizontal) (= 64 elements) in a two-dimensional matrix. As a commercial item, there exists a brand name: Grid-Eye (grid eye) "trademark" / made by Panasonic Electric Works.

  The specifications of the commercially available infrared array sensor include a thermopile element (array shape) as the sensor unit 28A, a condensing silicon lens, a MEMS (Micro Electro Mechanical Systems) sensor as the analysis unit 28B, an IC, and the like. The module is a built-in mounting module, can detect a region with a viewing angle of 60 degrees and a maximum of 5 to 10 m ahead, and can be applied as the first human sensor 28 of the present embodiment.

  Note that MEMS refers to a device in which mechanical element parts, sensors, actuators, and electronic circuits are integrated on a single silicon substrate, glass substrate, organic material, or the like.

  The infrared array sensor 28IR detects a temperature change of a person or a heat source in a specific space in a non-contact manner by analyzing a temperature distribution based on a detection signal corresponding to a thermal image detected by the detection unit 28A (thermopile element). The direction of movement of a person or the like can be detected.

  As shown in FIG. 7B, the electrical signal from the detection unit 28A is received by the electrical signal reception unit 50 of the analysis unit 28B, and the signals detected by the respective thermopile elements are stored in the pixel-by-pixel data storage unit 52. It has become so. Here, it is assumed that all the functions of the analysis unit 28B are provided in the circuit board unit 28B shown in FIG. 4, but the analysis unit 28B does not have to have all the functions, and some of them are shown in FIG. The function of the monitoring control unit 24 shown in FIG.

  A data extraction unit 54 is connected to the pixel-by-pixel data storage unit 52. For example, data is extracted in units of pixels and sent to the temperature level determination unit 56. An electrical signal-temperature level characteristic table storage unit 58 is connected to the temperature level determination unit 56, and the temperature level based on the received electrical signal (in this embodiment, four levels shown in FIG. 8C). Decide either.

  The determined temperature level information is sent to the detection result determination unit 60.

  A temperature distribution / state collation table storage unit 62 is connected to the detection result determination unit 60. In the detection result determination unit 60, based on the temperature distribution-state collation table stored in the temperature distribution-state collation table storage unit 62, for example, as a basic pattern, as shown in FIG. When a person is present in the detection area 28A, the state (here, “person is present”) is determined from the detection result (temperature distribution) (see FIG. 8B).

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, the detection result determination unit 60 determines the human operating state from the applied patterns shown in FIGS. 9 to 11 based on the determination of the basic pattern shown in FIG. The data is sent to the monitoring control unit 24 shown in FIG.

  9 to 11 show the correspondence based on the present embodiment (that is, the necessity of transition from the sleep mode to the standby mode) together with the determination based on the detection state. In addition, the following application patterns 1 to 3 are combined and combined with detection by the second human sensor 30 to determine A patterns to C patterns in FIG. 6 to be described later.

"Application pattern 1 (Fig. 9)"
In FIG. 9A, nothing is present in the detection region, the detection state of the infrared array sensor 28IR is insensitive, and the determination result is that there is no one in the vicinity, and the sleep mode is maintained as a response. Will be.

  In FIG. 9B, a person is detected (equivalent to the basic pattern), but it is determined that there is no temperature distribution corresponding to the original, and no original for scanning or copying is held. Will be maintained.

  FIG. 9C shows that the person is detected (equivalent to the basic pattern), has a temperature distribution corresponding to the original, and has the original for scanning and copying. It will start up to standby mode. Instead of making a direct transition to the standby mode, for example, when the power of the second human sensor 30 is cut off, power may be supplied to the second human sensor 30 first. .

"Application pattern 2 (Fig. 10)"
In FIG. 10A, nothing is present in the detection region, the detection state of the infrared array sensor 28IR is insensitive, and the determination result is that there is no one in the vicinity, and the sleep mode is maintained as a response. Will be.

  FIG. 10B shows a situation in which a person is detected (equivalent to the basic pattern), and it is determined that the person has entered from the left of the detection area. As a result, the sleep mode is maintained.

  FIG. 10C shows that a person is detected (equivalent to the basic pattern), and it is determined that the person who has entered from the left moves to the right as it is. The mode will be maintained.

"Application pattern 3 (Fig. 11)"
In FIG. 11A, nothing exists in the detection region, the detection state of the infrared array sensor 28IR is insensitive, and the determination result is determined that there is no one in the vicinity, and the sleep mode is maintained as a response. Will be.

  In FIG. 11B, a person is detected (equivalent to the basic pattern), but detection is performed with relatively few pixels, and the temperature distribution is relatively low, so it is determined that there is a person in the distance, Since it is unclear whether or not the device is approaching, the sleep mode is maintained.

  FIG. 11C detects a person (equivalent to the basic pattern), is detected with a relatively large number of pixels, and has a relatively high temperature distribution, so it is determined that there is a person in the vicinity. Then, the standby mode is started from the sleep mode. Instead of making a direct transition to the standby mode, for example, when the power of the second human sensor 30 is cut off, power may be supplied to the second human sensor 30 first. .

(Second human sensor 28)
On the other hand, the specification of the second human sensor 30 according to the present embodiment is applied to detect the presence / absence (presence / absence) of a moving body. The sensor applied to the second human sensor 30 is typically a reflective sensor having a light projecting part and a light receiving part (reflective sensor). Note that the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit may be separated.

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

  If the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 can achieve the intended functions, the infrared sensor 28RI or the second human sensor 28 can be used as the first human sensor 28. The human sensor 30 is not limited to a reflective sensor.

  Here, in this embodiment, two regions (first region F and second region N in FIG. 6) are set by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30.

  The first region F in FIG. 6 which is a relatively distant detection region (sometimes simply referred to as “region F”) is a detection region by the first human sensor 28 and serves as a remote mobile body detection means. It has a function. Further, the second region N in FIG. 6 (which may be simply referred to as “region N”), which is a relatively close detection region, is a detection region by the second human sensor 30 and is a proximity moving body detection unit. As a function.

  The detection area of the first human sensor 28 (see the first area F in FIG. 6) is about 2 to 3 m as a guide, although it depends on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed. On the other hand, the detection area of the second human sensor 30 (see the second area N in FIG. 6) is a range in which the UI touch panel 216 and hard keys of the image processing apparatus 10 can be operated. It is about 0.5 m.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the relationship between the moving object (user) and the image processing apparatus 10 is roughly divided into three forms. In the first form, a person operates the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of use. The form approaching to the possible position (see the trend of arrow A in FIG. 6 (A pattern)), the second form is a form in which the person approaches the operable position, although the processing device is not intended for use ( In the third form, the person does not approach the operable position of the processing apparatus, but the third form is likely to shift to the first form or the second form. It is the form (refer the trend (C pattern) of the C line arrow of FIG. 6) which is made to a certain distance.

  In the present embodiment, by distinguishing human trends into at least the A pattern to the C pattern, the state of the image processing apparatus 10, particularly the power supply state from the sleep mode is started, or the power supply state is changed to the sleep mode. Control the fall of

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

(Mode transition of power supply control of image processing apparatus 10 (device))
First, based on FIG. 5, a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus 10 is shown.

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

  Here, when there is a startup trigger (detection of a startup trigger or operation input (key input) of the UI touch panel 216 or the like), the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  It should be noted that after triggering the start-up trigger, the sleep mode may still be defined and only the UI touch panel 216 may be activated, or only the power saving monitoring control unit 24 may be powered by the activation of the UI touch panel 216. Since the power supply amount increases more, the awake mode “awk” (wake-up mode) may be defined (see the parentheses [] in the sleep mode range in the transition diagram of FIG. 5). When there is an operation input (key input) on the UI touch panel 216 or the like in this awake mode, the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  The startup trigger mainly includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the second human sensor 30. Note that a power-saving canceling operation by the operator may be used as a startup trigger.

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

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

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

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

  When the image processing is completed (when a plurality of continuous jobs are waiting, when all the continuous jobs are completed), the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 is changed to the standby mode by the standby trigger. Note that, after image processing, timing by a system timer may be started, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, a standby trigger may be output to transition to the standby mode.

  If there is a job execution instruction during the standby mode, the mode transits to the running mode again, and when the falling trigger is detected or a predetermined time elapses, the mode transits to the sleep mode.

  The falling trigger includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the second human sensor 30. A system timer may be used in combination.

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

  Here, each device that operates by receiving the supply of power can immediately execute each process by shifting from the sleep mode in FIG. 5 to the standby mode through the awake mode and the warm-up mode.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment transits between the modes, and the power supply amount is different for each mode.

  In the image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment, when a predetermined condition (for example, the moving object (user) leaving information by the human sensor 30 or the output of the falling trigger due to the time-up of the system timer) is met, Transition to mode. In this sleep mode, power is supplied not only to the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 but also to the main controller 200 excluding the power saving monitoring control unit 24 and the UI touch panel 216. Cut off. In this case, it is preferable that the function of the power saving control button 26 connected to the main controller 200 is also stopped. For this reason, when the image processing apparatus 10 is viewed from the periphery, the state is almost the same as the state where the main power switch is turned off. That is, it is possible to confirm from the surroundings that the sleep mode is being executed reliably (realization of “visualization”).

  The devices of the image processing apparatus 10 (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are referred to as energy saving and convenience based on the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. Taking into account the contradictory purpose, appropriate mode transition (particularly, starting from the sleep mode and falling to the sleep mode) is performed. In this case, it is assumed that the detection system such as the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 is always supplied with electric power. It is to be noted that only the first human sensor 28 is constantly supplied with electric power, and electric power is supplied to the second human sensor 30 when the moving object (user) is detected by the first human sensor 28. You may do it.

  Here, in this embodiment, since the infrared array sensor 28RI is applied as the first human sensor 28, in addition to the detection of the movement of the moving body (user), the moving body that has entered the detection area. Based on the detected state, the situation is determined, and the correspondence of the subsequent processing is determined.

  By applying the infrared array sensor 28IR, for example, at least the following problems can be solved as compared with a sensor that simply detects the presence or absence of a moving object.

(Problem 1)
Some moving objects (persons) approaching the image processing apparatus 10 approach other than scanning and copying. For example, a case where a print instruction is output from a remote PC and then the printout sheet is picked up. In such a case, for example, it is determined that a person is approaching, and for example, the sleep mode is switched to the standby mode, or the next-stage human sensor (the second human sensor 30 in the present embodiment). If power is supplied to the battery, useless power consumption may occur.

(Countermeasure for issue 1)
In addition to the basic pattern of FIG. 8, the application pattern 1 shown in FIG. 9 is applied.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 9B “application pattern 1”, a person is detected, but it is determined that there is no temperature distribution corresponding to the original, and no original for scanning or copying is held, and the sleep mode is set. To maintain.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 9C “application pattern 1”, a person is detected, it is determined that there is a temperature distribution corresponding to the original, and the original for scanning and copying is held, and the sleep mode is set. To standby mode. For example, when the second human sensor 30 is in the power cut-off state, power is first supplied to the second human sensor 30 instead of making a transition to the standby mode. Good.

(Problem 2)
Even if there is a moving object (person) in the vicinity of the image processing apparatus 10, the employee uses the image processing apparatus 10 when the image processing apparatus 10 is installed in a passage where employees or the like frequently come and go. It is a case where it approaches to the same distance as the person who performs. In such a case, it is determined that a person is present nearby, for example, when the sleep mode is switched from the sleep mode to the standby mode, the next-stage human sensor (in the present embodiment, the second human sensor 30). If power is supplied to), useless power consumption may occur.

(Measure 1 for Problem 2)
In addition to the basic pattern of FIG. 8, the application pattern 2 and the application pattern 3 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 are applied.

  As shown in FIG. 10B “applied pattern 2”, a person is detected, but after it is determined that the person has entered from the left of the detection area, it is shown in FIG. 10C “applied pattern 2”. Thus, when the person who has entered from the left moves to the right as it is, it is determined that the person has just passed and the sleep mode is maintained.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 10B “applied pattern 2”, a person is detected, but after it is determined that the person has entered from the left of the detection area, FIG. 11C “applied pattern 3”. When the person who has entered from the left changes direction and approaches the image processing apparatus 10, it is determined that he / she intends to operate the image processing apparatus 10 and starts up from the sleep mode to the standby mode. Instead of making a direct transition to the standby mode, for example, when the power of the second human sensor 30 is cut off, power may be supplied to the second human sensor 30 first. .

(Countermeasure 2)
In addition to the basic pattern of FIG. 8, the application pattern 2 and the application pattern 3 shown in FIGS. 10 and 11 are applied.

  As shown in FIG. 11B “applied pattern 3”, a person is detected, but after it is determined that the person is relatively far away, as shown in FIG. When the person who has been moving moves to the right while approaching, it is determined that it is just passing and the sleep mode is maintained.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 11B “application pattern 3”, a person is detected, but after it is determined that the person is relatively far away, as shown in FIG. 11C “application pattern 3”, When the person who is far away approaches the vicinity of the image processing apparatus 10, it is determined that there is an intention to operate the image processing apparatus 10, and the standby mode is started from the sleep mode. Instead of making a direct transition to the standby mode, for example, when the power of the second human sensor 30 is cut off, power may be supplied to the second human sensor 30 first. .

  In the present embodiment, an infrared area sensor 28IR is applied as the first human sensor 28, and the infrared area sensor 28RI is always supplied with power even in the sleep mode, so that all pixels Although monitoring is performed at (64 pixels), as shown in FIG. 12, monitoring is performed at peripheral pixels (28 pixels) as preliminary monitoring, and monitoring is performed at all pixels (64 pixels) as main monitoring. A typical power supply may be performed.

  More specifically, as shown in FIG. 12A, during the sleep mode, the surrounding pixels (28 pixels) are monitored (preliminary monitoring), and no one exists in the detection area. Therefore, the sleep mode is maintained, and the power consumption of the infrared area sensor 28IR at this time is about 0.007 Wdc.

  Next, as shown in FIG. 12B, when a person enters the detection area while only monitoring the pixels around the infrared area sensor 28IR, the temperature is detected by the surrounding pixels. Therefore, the sleep mode is maintained, but power is supplied to all pixels in the infrared area sensor 28IR, and the process proceeds to monitoring with all the pixels (main monitoring). The power consumption of the infrared area sensor 28IR at this time is about 0.015 Wdc.

  After the actual monitoring, as in the application patterns 1 to 3 described above, the movement of the person in the detection area is analyzed, and the sleep mode is maintained if it passes as shown in FIG. Then, as shown in FIG. 12D, if the image processing apparatus 10 is approached, the standby mode may be started or power may be supplied to the next-stage human sensor 30.

  Moreover, it is only necessary to shift from the main monitoring state to the preliminary monitoring state again when there is no more person from the detection area.

  Note that the monitoring by the infrared array sensor 28IR of the present embodiment is not limited to the above-described problems 1 and 2, for example, information more than information indicating whether the moving body has moved (such as the contour of the moving body and the By acquiring the movement direction or the presence / absence of possession of the document, the false detection rate is reduced compared to other sensors that detect information on whether or not the moving body has moved.

W Wall surface 10 Image processing device 20 Network communication network 21 PC
22 telephone line network 24 power saving monitoring control unit 26 power saving control button 28 first human sensor 30 second human sensor 28 IR infrared array sensor 28A detection unit 28B circuit board unit (analysis unit)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 50 Electric signal reception part 52 Data storage part for every pixel 54 Data extraction part 56 Temperature level determination part 58 Electrical signal-temperature level characteristic table storage part 60 Detection result determination part 62 Temperature distribution-state collation table storage part 64 Status output part 200 Main Controller 204 CPU
206 RAM
208 ROM
210 I / O (input / output unit)
212 Bus 214 UI control circuit 216 UI touch panel 217 IC card reader 218 Hard disk 220 Timer circuit 222 Communication line I / F
236 Facsimile communication control circuit 238 Image reading unit 240 Image forming unit 242 Commercial power supply 243 Wiring plate 244 Input power supply line 245 Outlet 246 Main switch 248 First power supply unit 250 Second power supply unit 248A Control power generation unit 252 Power supply control Circuit 254 Power line 256 First sub power switch ("SW-1")
250H 24V power supply (LVPS2)
250L 5V power supply (LVPS1)
258 Image reading unit power supply unit 260 Image forming unit power supply unit 266 Facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 268 Second sub power switch (“SW-2”)
270 Third sub power switch ("SW-3")
274 Fourth sub power switch ("SW-4")
276 Sixth sub power switch ("SW-5")

Claims (12)

A load for executing a predetermined process by receiving power supply from the power supply unit and operating;
It includes a two-dimensional array type heat source detection means in which a plurality of pixels are arranged by arranging a plurality of heat source detection elements that vertically and horizontally output an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of heat received from the heat source, and a detection area around the load Moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not there is a moving body that includes a user who uses the load installed as
Power supply state transition control means for making a transition to a power supply state that receives power from the power supply unit or a power cut-off state that does not receive power supply from the power supply unit for at least the load,
A transition timing determination means for determining a transition timing by the power supply state transition control means by comparing the detection information by the mobile body detection means and the timing information of a predetermined timing means with reference information set to each of the detection information; ,
A power supply control device. Based on an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detection means, further comprising analysis means for analyzing the moving direction of the heat source,
The power according to claim 1, wherein the transition time determination unit determines whether the heat source is a moving body and approaches the load by comparing a result analyzed by the analysis unit with the reference information. Supply control device. Based on an electrical signal corresponding to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detection means, further comprising analysis means for analyzing the contour of the heat source;
The transition time determination means compares the reference information with the result analyzed by the analysis means to determine whether or not the outline of the heat source is a human type, and if it is a human type, it determines the presence or absence of belongings. The power supply control device according to 1.   The moving body detection means further includes user detection means for detecting a user who faces the load at a close distance, and supplies power in cooperation from the two-dimensional array heat source detection means to the user detection means. The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the power supply control device always sets the two-dimensional array heat source detection means to a power supply state.   The power supply control device according to claim 4, wherein a detection region of the two-dimensional array heat source detection unit is set to include a detection region of the user detection unit.   6. The reflective detection means for determining whether or not there is a user based on whether or not the user detection means includes a light projecting section and a light receiving section and receives light from the light projecting section at the light receiving section. The power supply control device described.   The power supply control device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein power supply to the two-dimensional array heat source detection unit is controlled based on an operating state of the load and a detection state of the user detection unit. .   Power supply to the two-dimensional array type heat source detection means includes at least a period during which the user is detected by the user detection means, and a predetermined period after the user detection means no longer detects the user The power supply control device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the power supply control device according to any one of claims 4 to 6 is cut off.   Based on the analysis result of the analysis means for analyzing the contour of the heat source based on the electrical signal corresponding to the amount of heat from the heat source detected by the two-dimensional array heat source detection means, at least the moving body moves away from the load. The power supply control device according to any one of claims 4 to 8, wherein the power supply to the user detecting means is cut off when it is found out. The load is classified into a plurality of processing units that operate by receiving power supply and execute predetermined processes, and an instruction unit that selectively instructs the plurality of processing units at least on the processing contents. ,
As a mode to be shifted in the power cut-off state, a sleep mode for supplying power to a monitoring control unit for analyzing a detection result by the moving body detection unit, and an awake mode for supplying power to an instruction unit as necessary are provided. ,
As a mode to be shifted in the power supply state, a warm-up mode that is a preparation stage for starting up the processing unit from the sleep mode, a standby for supplying power to the processing unit lower than a normal time A plurality of modes including a running mode for supplying power during normal operation to the processing unit,
The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the mode is changed according to a processing status. An image reading unit comprising the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the load reads an image from a document image, and forms an image on a recording sheet based on image information A facsimile communication control unit for transmitting an image to a transmission destination under a predetermined communication procedure, a user interface unit for performing information reception notification with a user, and a user identification device for identifying a user And performing image processing in cooperation with each other based on instructions from the user,
An image processing apparatus in which the moving body detection means is provided based on an installation position of the user interface unit or the user identification device.   The power supply control program which makes a computer perform as a power supply control apparatus of any one of the said Claims 1-10.