JP2016153225A - Information processor, control method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To achieve both the power-saving property and convenience of an information processor.SOLUTION: The information processor includes a mobile object detection part for detecting approaching of a mobile object within the range of a prescribed detection distance, a state control part for returning the information processor to a prescribed power state in the case of detection that the mobile object approaches, an operation detection part for detecting a user's operation, a storage part for storing history information of approaches of the mobile object and history information of the user's operations, a calculation part for re-calculating the prescribed detection distance on the basis of a preset return time required to return the information processor to the prescribed power state and the history information stored in the storage part, and a setting part for setting the re-calculated prescribed detection distance in the mobile body detection part.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 14

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, a control method, and a program.

  An image forming apparatus such as an MFP (Multi-Function Printer, Multi-Function Peripheral) is always turned on, so that it is required to reduce power consumption. In addition, from the viewpoint of business efficiency, it is also required that the user can immediately use it when necessary.

  To improve energy efficiency, shift to an energy saving state when not in use, and to improve usability, when human approach is detected by a human body detection sensor, it starts to return and the user stands in front of the image forming device. There is known a control technique for making it available for use (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

  In the control technique using the human body detection sensor described above, how to set the detection range (detection distance) is important. However, in the past, when there was a lot of useless energy-saving recovery that was not performed, the human body detection sensor increased the threshold value for detecting human presence, so the detection range could not be set appropriately, and There was a problem that it was impossible to achieve both usability. More specifically, if the detection range is too wide, even people who do not use the image forming apparatus will be detected, and energy-saving will be lost due to unnecessary energy-saving recovery, and if the detection range is too short, the user will form an image. Usability was impaired because it did not return when standing in front of the device.

  Such a problem exists not only in the image forming apparatus but also in various information processing apparatuses that detect the approach of the user and control the power state.

  The present invention has been proposed in view of the above-described conventional problems, and an object thereof is to achieve both energy saving and usability of the information processing apparatus.

  In order to solve the above problems, an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a moving body detection unit that detects the approach of a moving body within a predetermined detection distance, and the approach of the moving body is detected. A state control unit that returns the information processing apparatus to a predetermined power state, an operation detection unit that detects a user operation, the history information of the approach of the moving body, and the history information of the user operation are stored. Based on a storage unit, a preset recovery time required to return the information processing apparatus to the predetermined power state, and history information stored in the storage unit, the predetermined detection distance is reset. A calculation unit that calculates, and a setting unit that sets the recalculated predetermined detection distance in the moving body detection unit.

  In the present invention, it is possible to achieve both energy saving and usability of the information processing apparatus.

1 is an external view illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. 1 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a person's approach and separation detection by the human body detection sensor which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a software configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the log | history information which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (the 1) which shows the process example of embodiment which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram (the 2) which shows the process example of embodiment which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process example of judgment / recalculation of the detection distance which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of a user interface of the detection area setting which concerns on the modification 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of a user interface of the detection exclusion period setting which concerns on the modification 3. FIG. It is a figure which shows the user interface example of the reset time setting which concerns on the modification 4. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of the detection of the approach of a moving body and separation | spacing which concern on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 6 is a functional configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of the log | history information which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a figure which shows the example of apparatus specific information which concerns on 2nd Embodiment, and setting information. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the process of the recalculation of the detection distance which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the example of the determination process which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of processing of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described.

<Configuration>
(appearance)
FIG. 1 is an external view illustrating a configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1. In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes units of an operation unit 11, a document reading unit 12, a paper feeding unit 13, a printing unit 14, and a paper discharge unit 15.

  The operation unit 11 is a unit that displays the state of the image forming apparatus 1 to the user and receives a request from the user. The document reading unit 12 is a unit that reads a document as a copy source. The paper supply unit 13 is a unit that supplies paper to be printed. The printing unit 14 feeds from the paper feeding unit 13 based on a document read by the document reading unit 12 or a document given as data (a document sent via a network or a data given by a USB memory or the like). This unit prints on paper. The paper discharge unit 15 is a unit that discharges the paper printed by the printing unit 14.

[First Embodiment]
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. 2, an image forming apparatus 1 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 101, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 103, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 104, an engine 105, an operation unit 106, and a human body. A detection sensor 107 and a communication I / F (Interface) 108 are provided.

  The CPU 101 is a part that comprehensively controls the image forming apparatus 1. In the control, the CPU 101 uses the RAM 103 as a work area (work area) and executes a program stored in the ROM 102 or the HDD 104. The engine 105 is hardware that realizes a reading operation or a printing operation, and realizes various functions such as a copy function / scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function.

  The operation unit 106 is an interface that accepts an operation from a user and notifies the user of the state of the image forming apparatus 1. The human body detection sensor 107 is a sensor that detects the approach and separation of a person from the image forming apparatus 1. For example, a pyroelectric sensor or the like is used. The communication I / F 108 is an interface for connecting to the external network 2.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of human approach and separation detection by the human body detection sensor 107 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 3, an example in which a human body detection sensor 107 is provided in the operation unit 11 is shown, and when a person approaches a region whose radius is a detection distance from the position of the human body detection sensor 107, Detection is performed at the time of leaving the area away from the area. The detection distance is automatically set so that both energy saving and usability of the image forming apparatus 1 can be achieved. Details thereof will be described later.

  The arrangement of the human body detection sensor 107 is not limited to the inside of the operation unit 11 but may be another place of the image forming apparatus 1 or a place away from the image forming apparatus 1 by wire or wirelessly. There may be. Further, the region detected by the human body detection sensor 107 is not limited to a non-directional circle, but may be a directional shape.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 4, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a power control unit 111, a detection distance determination / calculation unit 112, and a sensor adjustment unit 115. The device specific information 113 and the history information 114 are information (data) that the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 refers to and updates.

  The device unique information 113 is held as information unique to the image forming apparatus 1. Specifically, the device unique information 113 is information on the energy saving return time from the energy saving state until the operation units 11 and 106 can be used, and the current information. The information of the detection distance (detection range, detection area) of the human body detection sensor 107 is held.

  The history information 114 is information on the history of the operation units 11 and 106 and the human body detection sensor 107. Specifically, as shown in FIG. The date and time when the user performed an operation on the operation unit 106 is recorded. Note that the operation unit operation history immediately after recording the presence detection is recorded only for the first time.

  Returning to FIG. 4, when the image forming apparatus 1 has not been used for a predetermined time or when an instruction to shift to energy saving is received, the power control unit 111 determines the power state of the device (engine 105, HDD 104, RAM 103, ROM 102, etc.). To a power state with low power consumption. Further, the power control unit 111 receives a human approach notification from the human body detection sensor 107 or an operation notification from the operation unit 106 as an energy saving return trigger, and the power state of the device is a power state with a higher power consumption (predetermined power state). Transition to. The power control unit 111 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 101 in FIG.

  For example, a first power state (normal state) in which power is supplied to all the devices (power: large) and a second power supply (power: medium) in a range that allows the operation unit 106 to be operated. The power state (energy saving state 1) and the third power state (energy saving state 2) in which power supply (power: small) is performed in a range that allows the detection operation of the human body detection sensor 107 and the operation of the operation unit 106 to be accepted. Divide. Then, the power control unit 111 makes a transition from the first power state → the second power state → the third power state according to the unused time, and the third power state → the second power state by the energy saving return trigger. And transition. Transition from the second power state to the first power state is made according to the operation content.

  The detection distance determination / calculation unit (detection distance calculation unit) 112 stores and manages the device-specific information 113 and the history information 114 in the HDD 104 of FIG. 2, and changes the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 at a predetermined timing. It is determined whether or not it should be performed, and when it should be changed, the detection distance is recalculated. The detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 is realized by, for example, a program operating on the CPU 101 in FIG.

  The sensor adjustment unit 115 sets the detection distance calculated by the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 in the human body detection sensor 107. The sensor adjustment unit 115 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 101 in FIG.

<Operation>
6 and 7 are sequence diagrams illustrating an example of processing according to the first embodiment.

  In FIG. 6, when the user enters the detection area of the human body detection sensor 107, the human body detection sensor 107 detects the approach of the person and transmits an approach notification to the power control unit 111 (step S11). When the power control unit 111 is in an energy saving state that should be restored due to the approach of the user, the power control unit 111 performs energy saving restoration (step S12). Further, the power control unit 111 transmits an approach notification to the detected distance determination / calculation unit 112 (step S13).

  The detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 that has received the approach notification acquires the current date and time (step S14), and saves the information of the “personnel: current date and time” set in the history information 114 (step S15).

  Next, in FIG. 6, when the user uses the image forming apparatus 1, the operation unit 106 transmits an operation unit operation notification to the power control unit 111 (step S21). When the power control unit 111 is in an energy saving state that should be restored by the operation of the user's operation unit, the power control unit 111 performs energy saving restoration (step S22). Further, the power control unit 111 transmits an operation unit operation notification to the detected distance determination / calculation unit 112 (step S23).

  The detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 that has received the operation unit operation notification acquires the current date and time (step S24), and stores the information of the “operation unit operation: current date and time” set in the history information 114 (step S25). Here, the information is not saved for each operation, but only the first time after saving the personality is saved.

  Next, in FIG. 7, when the user leaves the detection area of the human body detection sensor 107, the human body detection sensor 107 detects the separation of the person and transmits a separation notification to the power control unit 111 (step S31). The power control unit 111 transmits a separation notification to the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 (step S32).

  The detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 that has received the separation notification acquires the current date and time (step S33), and stores the information of the set “nobody: current date and time” in the history information 114 (step S34).

  Next, in FIG. 7, the following processing is executed every predetermined period. The predetermined period is, for example, one day or one week, and is preferably a period in which a certain number of history information is collected.

  First, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 acquires the history information 114 (step S41), and acquires the current detection distance and the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (steps S42 and S43).

  Next, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 determines whether or not the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 should be changed, and if so, recalculates the detection distance (step S44). Details of the processing will be described later.

  Next, when the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 recalculates the detection distance, it requests the sensor adjustment unit 115 to set (rewrite) the detection distance (step S45). Upon receiving the request, the sensor adjustment unit 115 sets a detection distance for the human body detection sensor 107 (step S46).

The detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 is
・ Voltage threshold for judging approaching / separating people ・ Physical sensor placement angle (downward / upward angle)
-It can be changed depending on the amount of hiding the sensor surface. Since the correspondence between the detection distance and those values is known in advance, the detection distance is designated from the sensor adjustment unit 115 and converted into a control value on the human body detection sensor 107 side or set, or the sensor adjustment unit 115 side Then, the detection distance is converted into a control value and set in the human body detection sensor 107.

  Next, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 stores the current detection distance in the device specific information 113 (step S47).

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a processing example of detection distance determination / recalculation (step S44 in FIG. 7) by the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 8, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 counts the number of times “no person detected” is recorded immediately after “person detection” from the history information 114 (step S <b> 101). In the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the numbers 4⇒5, 6⇒7, and 8⇒9 total three times.

  Next, returning to FIG. 8, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 counts the number of times “operation unit operation” is recorded immediately after “personality detection” from the history information 114 (step S <b> 102). In the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the numbers 1⇒2, 10⇒11, 13⇒14 are three times in total.

  Next, returning to FIG. 8, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 calculates an average of time intervals of cases from “human presence detection” to “operation unit operation” from the history information 114 (step S103). In the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the number is 3 seconds which is an average value of 1 → 2 for 3 seconds, 10⇒11 for 5 seconds, and 13⇒14 for 1 second.

  Next, returning to FIG. 8, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 has a predetermined ratio of “no human detection” recorded immediately after “human detection” (the ratio of “person detection” to the total number). It is determined whether or not the threshold value is exceeded (step S104). For example, if the threshold is 40%, in the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the ratio of “no-person detection” recorded immediately after “person-detection” is 50% (3 out of 6 times). Therefore, it is determined that the value is larger than the threshold value.

  Returning to FIG. 8, if it is determined that the ratio of “no-person detection” recorded immediately after “human-detection” is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold (Yes in step S104), no operation is performed. The energy saving recovery has been performed, and the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 may be long.

  In this case, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 further determines whether or not the average time interval from “human presence detection” to “operation unit operation” is longer than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (step S105). ). For example, if the energy saving return time is 1.5 seconds, in the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the average time interval is 3 seconds, so it is determined that the energy saving return time is longer than the energy saving return time.

  Returning to FIG. 8, when it is determined that the average time interval from “human presence detection” to “operation unit operation” is longer than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (Yes in step S <b> 105), the image forming apparatus 1 is changed. A person who does not use is erroneously detected, and the person who uses the image forming apparatus 1 also has a slower walking speed than expected. Therefore, the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 can be shortened. Therefore, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 recalculates the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 (step S106).

The calculation formula of the detection distance is
New detection distance = Current detection distance ÷ Average time from human detection to operation section operation
× It is like the energy saving recovery time specific to the device. In the example of the history information 114 illustrated in FIG. 5, the new detection distance is obtained by “current detection distance × 1.5 ÷ 3”, and is a value shorter than the current detection distance.

  Returning to FIG. 8, when it is determined that the average time interval from “human detection” to “operation unit operation” is not longer than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (No in step S <b> 105), the energy is saved earlier than expected. Since it cannot be said that it has returned, the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 is not changed (step S107).

  On the other hand, if it is determined that the ratio of “no human detection” recorded immediately after “human detection” is not equal to or greater than the predetermined threshold (less than the predetermined threshold) (No in step S104), the detection distance is It may be too short.

  In this case, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 further determines whether or not the average time interval from “human presence detection” to “operation unit operation” is shorter than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (step S108). ).

  When it is determined that the average time interval from “human detection” to “operation unit operation” is shorter than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (Yes in step S108), most people who do not use the image forming apparatus 1 Since no false detection is performed and the person using the image forming apparatus 1 has a faster walking speed than expected, the user is kept waiting. Therefore, the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 can be increased. Therefore, the detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 recalculates the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 (step S109). The calculation formula is the same as described above.

  When it is determined that the average time interval from “human detection” to “operation unit operation” is not shorter than the energy saving return time of the device specific information 113 (No in step S108), the user is waiting. Since it cannot be said, the detection distance of the human body detection sensor 107 is not changed (step S110).

<Modification 1>
In this modified example, “counting the number of times that no person is detected after detection of human presence” in the processing example shown in FIG. 8 (step S101), “operation unit operation is recorded after detection of human presence”. In the process of “count the number of times” (step S102) and “calculate the average of the time interval of the case from the person detection to the operation of the operation unit” (step S103), unique data exceeding the predetermined threshold (single recording) ) Shall be excluded from counting and calculation (aggregation). Thereby, it is possible to prevent an error from occurring in the counting result due to a specific operation by the user, and to increase the accuracy of recalculation of the detection distance.

  For example, if the time interval is 10 minutes or more when saved continuously from human detection to human detection, it is determined that the user stays in the image forming apparatus 1 and does something else. And excluded from the count. If the time interval is within one second when the human presence detection ⇒ operation unit operation is continuously stored and the time interval is within one second, the user can detect the blind spot in the detection area of the human body detection sensor 107 (eg, the image forming apparatus 1). It is judged that the object is approaching from behind, and is excluded from the count.

  According to such an example of exclusion, in the example of the history information 114 shown in FIG. 5, the case of number 6⇒7 falls under the first exclusion example and is not counted. The total number of times “no detection is recorded” is two. Further, the case of the number 13⇒14 corresponds to the second exclusion example, and is excluded from the counting, and the “number of times that the operation unit operation is recorded after the human detection” is two times in total. Further, the average value of the time interval is 4 seconds from the average value of 3 seconds from 1⇒2 and 5 seconds from 10⇒11.

<Modification 2>
In this modified example, coefficients are introduced in the “recalculate the detection distance of the human body detection sensor” (steps S106 and S109) in the processing example shown in FIG. 8, and based on the information on the detection area that can be selected by the user. And change the coefficient. Thereby, the detection area along a user's hope can be set up. For example, a user who wants to suppress useless energy-saving return as much as possible sets the detection area short, and may perform some useless energy-saving return, so a user who wants to use the image forming apparatus 1 immediately after return sets the detection area longer. It will be.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface for detection area setting according to the second modification. In FIG. 9, three patterns of “wide”, “normal”, and “narrow” are selectable by radio buttons on the detection area setting screen. For example, the coefficient α is 1.2 when “wide” is selected, the coefficient α is 1.0 when “normal” is selected, and the coefficient α is 0.8 when “narrow” is selected. Is adopted.

The detection distance calculation formula in this case is
New detection distance = Current detection distance ÷ Average time from human detection to operation section operation
× Equipment-specific energy-saving recovery time × Factor α
become that way.

<Modification 3>
In the third modification, in the usage history information stored in the history information 114 of FIG. 5, information in a preset time zone is not stored. For example, it is set so as not to save the information of the time zone from 11:00 to 11:30 every day. Thereby, for example, in the history information 114 of FIG. 5, the information of the numbers “8” to “12” is not stored. Thereby, the recalculation result of the detection area of the human body detection sensor may change.

  According to the third modification, for example, information on a time zone that does not need to be totaled for a time zone (for example, lunch break) in which the image forming apparatus 1 is not used is not aggregated, so that the accuracy of recalculation of the detection area is improved. Can be made.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a user interface example of detection exclusion period setting according to the third modification. On the setting screen for detection exclusion setting shown in FIG. 10, the user (or administrator) inputs the start time and end time of the detection exclusion period, and selects the setting button to save the usage history in the history information 114. A detection exclusion period can be set.

<Modification 4>
In the fourth modification, the “device-specific energy saving return time” used when recalculating a new detection distance of the human body detection sensor can be changed by the user (or the administrator). For example, the user can select whether the “device-specific energy saving return time” is a time “until the operation panel can be used” or a time “until the scan can be started”.

  Generally, when the image forming apparatus 1 returns from the energy-saving state, there is a difference between the time until the operation of the operation unit becomes possible and the time until the original can be read.

  In addition, there are various usage methods of the image forming apparatus 1 depending on the user, such as a user who performs a reading operation with default settings after returning from an energy saving state, or a user who performs a reading operation after changing the settings. .

  For example, for a user who performs the reading operation as it is with the default setting, the “device-specific energy saving return time” is desirably a time until the document can be read after returning from the energy saving state. On the other hand, for a user who performs a reading operation after changing the setting, the “device-specific energy saving return time” is desirably a time until the operation of the operation unit becomes possible after returning from the energy saving state.

  According to the fourth modification, the “device-specific energy saving return time” can be changed according to the user's request.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface for setting a return time of a device according to the fourth modification. In the device recovery time setting screen shown in FIG. 11, the user (or administrator) changes the “device-specific energy saving recovery time” by selecting the device recovery time setting and selecting the selection button. can do.

<Summary>
As described above, according to the present embodiment, since the detection distance of the human body detection sensor can be set appropriately, both energy saving and usability of the image forming apparatus can be achieved.

  The present invention has been described above by the preferred embodiments of the present invention. While the invention has been described with reference to specific embodiments, various modifications and changes may be made to the embodiments without departing from the broad spirit and scope of the invention as defined in the claims. Obviously you can. In other words, the present invention should not be construed as being limited by the details of the specific examples and the accompanying drawings.

<Correspondence between Terms in Embodiment and Terms in Claims>
The operation units 11 and 106 are examples of an “operation detection unit”. The human body detection sensor 107 is an example of a “moving body detection unit”. The power control unit 111 is an example of a “state control unit”. The detection distance determination / calculation unit 112 is an example of a “calculation unit”. The sensor adjustment unit 115 is an example of a “setting unit”.

[Second Embodiment]
The configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the first embodiment shown in FIGS. 2 and 4 is an example, and the image forming apparatus 1 can have various configurations depending on the application and purpose. In the second embodiment, another example of the configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

<Hardware configuration>
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration example of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment. The image forming apparatus (information processing apparatus) 1 includes a main body 1220 that realizes various image forming functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function, and an operation unit 1210 that receives a user operation. The main body 1220 and the operation unit 1210 are connected via a dedicated communication path 1201 so that they can communicate with each other. The communication path 1201 may be, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, but may be of any standard regardless of wired or wireless.

  Note that the main body 1220 can perform an operation in accordance with an operation received by the operation unit 1210. The main body 1220 can also communicate with an external device such as a client PC (Personal Computer), and can perform an operation according to an instruction received from the external device.

(Hardware configuration of the main unit)
First, the hardware configuration of the main body 1220 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, the main body 1220 includes a CPU 1221, a ROM 1222, a RAM 1223, a storage unit 1224, a communication I / F unit 1225, a connection I / F unit 12266, an engine unit 12277, a moving body sensor unit 1228, and an external connection I / F. Part 1229 and a system bus 1230.

  The CPU 1221 comprehensively controls the operation of the main body 1220. The CPU 1221 controls the overall operation of the main body 1220 by executing a program stored in the ROM 1222 or the storage unit 1224 using the RAM 1223 as a work area (working area). For example, the CPU 1221 uses the engine unit 1227 to implement various functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function.

  The ROM 1222 is, for example, a nonvolatile memory that stores a basic input / output system (BIOS) that is executed when the main body 1220 is activated, various settings, and the like. The RAM 1223 is a volatile memory used as a work area for the CPU 1221. The storage unit 1224 is a non-volatile storage device that stores, for example, an OS, application programs, various data, and the like, and includes, for example, an HDD or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

  The communication I / F unit 1225 is a network interface for connecting the main body 1220 to the network 2 and performing communication with an external device connected to the network 2. The connection I / F 1226 is an interface for communicating with the operation unit 1210 via the communication path 1201.

  The engine unit 1227 is hardware that performs processing other than general-purpose information processing and communication for realizing image forming functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function. The engine unit 1227 includes, for example, a scanner (image reading unit) that scans and reads an image of a document, a plotter (image forming unit) that performs printing on a sheet material such as paper, and a fax unit that performs fax communication. . Furthermore, the engine unit 1227 may include specific options such as a finisher that sorts printed sheet materials and an ADF (automatic document feeder) that automatically feeds documents.

  The moving body sensor unit 1228 is a sensor that detects a moving body within the detection range around the image forming apparatus 1, and for example, a pyroelectric sensor or the like is used. The pyroelectric sensor is a detection device that detects a moving body (for example, a human body) using a pyroelectric element that detects light such as infrared rays by the pyroelectric effect. The human body detection sensor 107 according to the first embodiment illustrated in FIG. 2 is an example of the moving body sensor unit 1228.

  The external connection I / F unit 1229 is an interface such as a USB for connecting an external device. The external device includes, for example, an IC card reader 1202 that reads information from an IC card. In the example of FIG. 12, the mobile body sensor unit 1228 is included in the main body 1220, but the mobile body sensor unit 1228 is connected to the external connection I / F unit 1229 like the IC card reader 1202. It may be a thing.

  A system bus 1230 is connected to each of the above components, and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, and the like.

(Hardware configuration of operation unit)
Next, the hardware configuration of the operation unit 1210 will be described. As shown in FIG. 12, the operation unit 1210 includes a CPU 1211, a ROM 1212, a RAM 1213, a flash memory unit 1214, a communication I / F unit 1215, an operation panel unit 1216, a connection I / F unit 1217, and an external connection I / F unit 1218. And a system bus 1219.

  The CPU 1211 comprehensively controls the operation of the operation unit 1210. The CPU 1211 controls the operation of the entire operation unit 1210 by executing a program stored in the ROM 1212 or the flash memory unit 1214 using the RAM 1213 as a work area (working area). For example, the CPU 1211 realizes various functions such as display of information (image) according to the input received from the user.

  The ROM 1212 is, for example, a non-volatile memory that stores a BIOS executed when the operation unit 1210 is activated, various settings, and the like. The RAM 1213 is a volatile memory used as a work area for the CPU 1211. The flash memory unit 1214 is a non-volatile storage device that stores, for example, an OS, application programs, various data, and the like.

  The communication I / F unit 1215 is a network interface for connecting the operation unit 1210 to the network 2 and communicating with an external device connected to the network 2.

  The operation panel unit 1216 accepts various inputs according to user operations, and displays various types of information (for example, information according to the accepted operations, information indicating the operating status of the image forming apparatus 1, setting status, etc.). . The operation panel unit 1216 is configured by, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) equipped with a touch panel function, but is not limited thereto. The operation panel unit 1216 may be configured by, for example, an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display device equipped with a touch panel function. Further, the operation panel unit 1216 can be provided with an operation unit such as a hardware key or a display unit such as a lamp in addition to or instead of this.

  The connection I / F unit 1217 is an interface for communicating with the main body 1220 via the communication path 1201.

  The external connection I / F unit 1218 is an interface such as a USB for connecting an external device. In FIG. 12, the IC card reader 1202 is connected to the external connection I / F unit 1229 of the main body 1220, but the IC card reader 1202 is connected to the external connection I / F unit 1218 of the operation unit 1210. May be.

  A system bus 1219 is connected to each of the above components, and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, and the like.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of detection of approach and separation of the moving body by the moving body sensor unit 1228 according to the second embodiment. FIG. 13 shows an example in which a moving body sensor unit 1228 is provided in the main body 1220 of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 detects a time when a moving body such as a person approaches a region where the radius is a detection distance from the position of the moving body sensor unit 1228 and enters the region (humanity detection), The point in time when the vehicle is separated from the inside and exits the area is detected as the separation of the moving body (no-person detection). The detection distance is automatically set so that the power consumption and convenience of the image forming apparatus 1 can be compatible.

  The arrangement of the moving body sensor unit 1228 is not limited to the main body 1220, and may be provided outside the image forming apparatus 1 or may be provided in the operation unit 1210. Further, the area detected by the moving body sensor unit 1228 is not limited to a non-directional circle, and may have a directional shape.

  In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 1 has an IC card reader 1202. The IC card reader 1202 acquires information (for example, authentication information) recorded on the IC card 1301 from the IC card 1301. For example, the IC card reader 1202 acquires information from the IC card 1301 that is close to the communication area (for example, within 10 cm) of the IC card reader 1202 by NFC (Near Field Communication) communication or the like. NFC is an example of a communication method that the IC card reader 1202 can use.

  A user 1302 of the image forming apparatus 1 has an IC card 1301 in which authentication information is recorded, and can perform login authentication by bringing the IC card 1301 close to the IC card reader 1202. A user 1302 who is permitted to log in can use various functions of the image forming apparatus 1.

<Functional configuration>
FIG. 14 is a functional configuration diagram of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the second embodiment.

(Functional structure of the main unit)
The main body 1220 includes a moving body detection unit 1421, an IC card authentication unit 1422, an operation detection unit 1423, a history information management unit 1424, a setting information management unit 1425, an image formation unit 1426, a communication unit 1427, a state control unit 1428, and a determination unit 1429. A calculation unit 1430, a setting unit 1431, a storage unit 1440, and the like.

  The moving body detection unit 1421 detects the approach of a moving body (such as a user) within a predetermined detection distance using the moving body sensor unit 1228 shown in FIG. The moving body detection unit 1421 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the moving body sensor unit 1228 in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1221 in FIG.

  Preferably, the moving body detection unit 1421 further detects the separation of the moving body within a predetermined detection distance range using the moving body sensor unit 1228 or the like.

  The moving body detection unit 1421 detects the approach or separation of the moving body based on, for example, information indicating the presence or absence of the moving body output from the moving body sensor unit 1228 or a signal. As another example, the moving body detection unit 1421 determines (detects) the approach and separation of the moving body based on distance information output from the moving body sensor unit 1228, coordinate information, and the like. Also good.

  The IC card authentication unit 1422 uses the IC card reader 1202 shown in FIG. 12 to authenticate the authentication information read from the IC card 1301 of the user 1302 and when the authentication is successful, the user 1302 uses the image forming apparatus 1. Allow. The IC card authentication unit 1422 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the IC card reader 1202 in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1221 in FIG. The user 1302 performs an authentication operation using the IC card 1301 by bringing the IC card 1301 close to the IC card reader 1202, for example. This authentication operation is an example of an operation of the user 1302 with respect to the image forming apparatus 1.

  The operation detection unit 1423 detects an operation of the user 1302 with respect to the image forming apparatus 1. The operation detection unit 1423 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 1221 in FIG. In this embodiment, the operation detection unit 1423 detects an input operation on the operation unit 1210, an authentication operation on the IC card authentication unit 1422, and the like as operations of the user 1302. However, these operations are examples of operations of the user 1302 with respect to the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the operation of the user 1302 may be an instruction by voice or gesture according to a function provided in the image forming apparatus 1, or may be an authentication operation such as fingerprint authentication or face authentication.

  The history information management unit 1424 stores, for example, the history of the approach of the moving body (detection of human presence) and the separation of the moving body (no human detection) detected by the moving body detection unit 1421 in the history information 1441 for management. To do. In addition, the history information management unit 1424 stores and manages the history of operations of the user 1302 detected by the operation detection unit 1423 in the history information 1441. The history information management unit 1424 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 1221 in FIG.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an example of history information according to the second embodiment.

  FIG. 15A shows an example of history information 1441 according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 15A, the item “moving object detection (with moving object)” indicates that the moving object detection unit 1421 detects the approach of the moving object, and the date and time on the right side of the item indicates the moving object detection. The date and time when the approach of the moving body is detected by the unit 1421 is shown. The item “moving object detection (no moving object)” indicates that the moving object detection unit 1421 detects the separation of the moving object, and the date and time on the right side thereof is the moving object detection unit 1421. This indicates the date and time when the separation was detected.

  Further, the item “operation detection” indicates that the operation of the user is detected by the operation detection unit 1423, and the date and time on the right side indicates the date and time when the operation of the user is detected by the operation detection unit 1423. Yes. In the example of FIG. 15A, the history of “operation detection” is recorded after “moving object detection (with moving object)”, similarly to the history information 114 according to the first embodiment shown in FIG. Only the history of the first operation is recorded.

  Note that the history information 1441 shown in FIG. 15A is only a preferable example, and the history information 1441 includes the “moving object detection (with moving object)”, “moving object detection (without moving object)”, A history other than “operation detection” may be included.

  FIG. 15B shows an example of history information 1441 according to the second embodiment. In FIG. 15A, the item “power state transition (operable)” indicates that the power state of the image forming apparatus 1 has transitioned to an “operable” state in which authentication can be performed by the IC card authentication unit 1422. The date and time on the right side thereof indicates the date and time when the state has shifted to the “operable” state. The item “power state transition (normal)” indicates that the power state of the image forming apparatus 1 has transitioned to a “normal” state in which image forming processing can be executed. , Shows the date and time of transition to the “normal” state. Further, the item “power state transition (energy saving)” indicates that the power state of the image forming apparatus 1 has shifted to the “energy saving” state with low power consumption. Indicates the date and time of transition to.

  The item “operation unit operation (setting)” indicates that the user has performed a setting operation on the image forming apparatus 1, and the date and time on the right side indicates the date and time when the setting operation was performed. Similarly, the item “operation unit operation (scan)” indicates that the user has performed a scanning operation on the image forming apparatus 1, and the date and time on the right side indicates the date and time when the printing operation was performed. .

  Further, “IC card authentication (OK)” indicates that the user authentication (IC card authentication) by the image forming apparatus 1 is successful, and the date and time on the right side indicates the date and time when the authentication is successful.

  Returning to FIG. 14, the description of the functional configuration of the main body 1220 is continued.

  For example, the setting information management unit 1425 displays a setting screen as illustrated in FIGS. 9 to 11 on the operation unit 1210 so as to be selectable, and stores and manages the selected setting in the setting information 1443. The setting information management unit 1425 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 1221 in FIG.

  The image forming unit 1426 executes various image forming functions (for example, printing, copying, scanning, faxing, etc.) provided in the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming unit 1426 is realized by, for example, a program that operates in the engine unit in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1221 in FIG.

  The communication unit 1427 is a means for performing communication with the operation unit 1210, and is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the connection I / F unit 1226 in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1221 in FIG.

  The state control unit 1428 is a unit that controls the power state of the image forming apparatus 1 and is realized by, for example, a program operating on the CPU 1221 in FIG. For example, when the image forming apparatus 1 is not used after a preset time, the state control unit 1428 causes the image forming apparatus 1 to consume less energy than “normal” that can perform image forming processing. ”State. In the “energy saving” state, the image forming apparatus 1 can reduce power consumption, for example, by stopping the functions of the operation unit 1210 and the engine unit 1227 and the storage unit 1224 of the main body 1220 shown in FIG. .

  In addition, when the state control unit 1428 according to the present embodiment receives a notification indicating that a moving body has been detected from the moving body detection unit 1421 while the image forming apparatus 1 is in the “energy saving” state, the image forming apparatus 1. Is returned from the “energy saving” state to the “normal” state (an example of a predetermined power state).

  As another example, the state control unit 1428 is a power state in which the operation unit 1210 and the IC card authentication unit 1422 can be used when the moving body is detected during the “energy saving” state. You may make it transfer to a state (another example of a predetermined electric power state). In this case, for example, the state control unit 1428 may shift the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal state after the authentication is permitted by the IC card authentication unit 1422, or without waiting for the permission of the authentication. The image forming apparatus 1 may be shifted to a normal state.

  Based on the history information 1441 stored in the storage unit 1440, the determination unit 1429 recalculates the detection distance (predetermined detection distance) at which the moving body detection unit 1421 detects the approach and separation of the moving body. Determine whether. The determination unit 1429 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 1221 in FIG. The determination process by the determination unit 1429 will be described later.

  The calculation unit 1430 is based on a return time that is a time required to return the preset image forming apparatus 1 to the predetermined power state described above and the history information 1441 stored in the storage unit 1440. The detection distance of the detection unit 1421 is recalculated. For example, the calculation unit 1430 calculates an average time from when the approach of the moving body is detected to when a user operation is detected based on the history information 1441, and the calculated average time and the return time described above are calculated. Based on this, the detection distance of the moving body detection unit 1421 is recalculated.

  Preferably, the calculation unit 1430 excludes information satisfying a predetermined condition from the history information 1441, and calculates an average time from when the approach of the moving body is detected until a user operation is detected. .

  For example, in the history information 1441 shown in FIG. 15A, “moving object detection (with moving object)” indicating that the approaching of the moving object is detected is recorded in the number “4”. The number “5” records “moving object detection (no moving object)” indicating that the separation of the moving object is detected. Thus, when the user's operation is not detected after the approach of the moving body is detected until the separation of the moving body is detected, the calculation unit 1430 displays the “moving body” with the number “4”. The above-mentioned average time is calculated excluding “detection (with moving object)”. Similarly, “moving object detection (with moving object)” of the number “12” is also excluded from the above-described calculation of the average time.

  Also, in the history information 1441 shown in FIG. 15B, the number “9” between “moving object detection (with moving object)” and the number “11” “moving object detection (without moving object)” The user's operation is not detected. In this case, the calculation unit 1430 calculates the above-described average time by excluding “moving object detection (with moving object)” of the number “9”.

  Further, in the example of FIG. 15B, a plurality of “moving object detection (with moving object)” with the number “1” and “moving object detection (without moving object)” with the number “7” A history of user operations (numbers “5” and “6”) is recorded. In this case, the calculation unit 1430 calculates the above-described average time by excluding the second and subsequent user operations (number “6”) from among the plurality of user operations (numbers “5” and “6”).

  As described above, even when various pieces of history information are included in the history information 1441, information similar to the history information 1441 illustrated in FIG. 15A is obtained by excluding information satisfying a predetermined condition from the history information 1441. In addition, the average time can be calculated. Note that the calculation unit 1430 is realized, for example, by a program that operates on the CPU 1221 of FIG.

  Returning to FIG. 14, the description of the functional configuration of the main body 1220 will be continued.

  The setting unit 1431 sets the detection distance recalculated by the calculation unit 1430 in the moving object detection unit 1421. As a result, the predetermined detection distance at which the moving body detection unit 1421 detects the approach and separation of the moving body is changed. Note that the setting unit 1431 is realized by, for example, a program that operates on the CPU 1221 of FIG.

  The storage unit 1440 is a unit that stores the device specific information 1442, the setting information 1443, the history information 1441 described above, and the like, and is realized by, for example, the storage unit 1224 in FIG. 12 and the program that operates in the CPU 1221 in FIG. The

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of device specific information and setting information according to the second embodiment.

  In the device unique information, information unique to each image forming apparatus 1 is stored. In the example of FIG. 16A, the device specific information 1442 includes, for example, “current detection distance”, “time to use the operation panel”, “return time to start scanning”, “recalculation threshold”, and the like. Is remembered.

  “Current detection distance” is detection distance information set in the moving object detection unit 1421. The “recovery time until the operation panel is used” is information indicating the time required for the state control unit 1428 to use the operation panel after starting the recovery process. The “return time until the start of scanning” is information indicating the time required from when the state control unit 1428 starts the return processing until the scan starts. The “time to use the operation panel” and the “return time to start scanning” are examples of the return time required to return the image forming apparatus 1 to a predetermined power state.

  The “recalculation threshold” is a threshold used by the determination unit 1429 to determine whether to recalculate the detection distance. The determination process by the determination unit 1429 will be described later.

  The setting information 1443 stores, for example, information set on the setting screens of FIGS. In the example of FIG. 16B, the setting information 1443 stores, for example, “detection area”, “detection exclusion period”, “return time setting”, and the like.

  In the “detection area”, for example, the setting of the detection area set on the setting screen of FIG. 9 is stored. In the “detection exclusion period”, for example, the setting of the detection exclusion period set in the setting screen of FIG. 10 is stored. In the “reset time setting”, for example, the setting of the return time of the image forming apparatus 1 set on the setting screen of FIG. 11 is stored.

(Function configuration of the operation unit)
The operation unit 1210 includes a display control unit 1411, an operation reception unit 1412, a communication unit 1413, a storage unit 1414, and the like.

  The display control unit 1411 is a unit that displays the operation screen, the setting screen, and the like of the image forming apparatus 1 on the operation panel unit 1216 in FIG. 12, for example, and is realized by a program that operates on the CPU 1211 in FIG. .

  The operation receiving unit is a unit that receives a user operation input to the operation panel unit 1216 in FIG. 12, for example, and is realized by, for example, a program operating on the CPU 1211 in FIG.

  The communication unit 1413 is a means for performing communication with the main body 1220, and is realized by, for example, a program operating on the connection I / F unit 1217 in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1211 in FIG.

  The storage unit 1414 is a means for storing various information, and is realized by, for example, a program that operates in the flash memory unit 1214 in FIG. 12 and the CPU 1211 in FIG.

  Note that the functional configuration shown in FIG. 14 is merely an example. For example, at least a part of the history information 1441, device specific information 1442, and setting information 1443 stored in the storage unit 1440 of the main body 1220 may be stored in the storage unit 1414 of the operation unit 1210.

  Further, at least a part of each component other than the image forming unit 1426 and the communication unit 1427 included in the main body 1220 of FIG. 14 may be included in the operation unit 1210. In this case, each component included in the operation unit 1210 is realized by, for example, the CPU 1211 in FIG.

<Process flow>
Subsequently, the flow of processing of the control method of the image forming apparatus 1 will be described.

(Recalculation process)
FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating an example of detection distance recalculation processing according to the second embodiment. When the determination unit 1429 determines that the detection distance is to be recalculated, the calculation unit 1430 of the image forming apparatus 1 performs the detection distance recalculation process illustrated in FIG.

  In step S <b> 1701, the calculation unit 1430 of the image forming apparatus 1 acquires the history information 1441 stored in the storage unit 1440.

  In step S1701, the calculation unit 1430 excludes information that satisfies predetermined information from the acquired history information 1441.

  For example, in the example of the history information 1441 illustrated in FIG. 15A, the calculation unit 1430 stores the user operation between the time when the approach of the moving object is detected and the time when the separation of the moving object is detected. If not, the detection information of the moving object is excluded. In the example of FIG. 15A, the information of “moving object detection (with moving object)” of numbers “4” and “12” is excluded. In the history information 1441 in FIG. 15, “moving object detection (with moving object)” indicates that the approaching of the moving object has been detected, and “moving object detection (without moving object)” It is assumed that the separation of is detected.

  In the example of the history information 1441 illustrated in FIG. 15B, the calculation unit 1430 is different from the information related to the approach of the moving body, the detection of the separation, and the user operation, such as “power state transition” and “process execution”. Is excluded. Similarly to the case of FIG. 15A, the calculation unit 1430 does not store the user's operation between the time when the moving object is detected and the time when the moving object is detected. The detection information of the moving object is excluded. Furthermore, when a plurality of user operations are stored between the time when the approach of the moving body is detected and the time when the moving body is detected, the calculation unit 1430 determines that 2 out of the plurality of user operations. Excludes subsequent operations.

  Preferably, the calculation unit 1430 excludes unique information that exceeds a predetermined threshold from the information stored in the history information 1441 as described in the first modification.

  In step S1703, the calculation unit 1430 calculates an average time from when the approach of the moving body is detected to when the user operation is detected.

  In the example of FIG. 15A, the detection of the approach of the moving object is indicated by “moving object detection (with moving object)”, and the detection of the user operation is indicated by “operation detection”. Yes. For example, in FIG. 15A, 3 seconds between “moving object detection (with moving object)” with the number “6” and “operation detection” with the number “7” and “moving object with the number“ 9 ”. The average of 5 seconds between “detection (with moving body)” and “operation detection” of the number “10” is 4 seconds.

  In the example of FIG. 15B, the detection of the approach of the moving object is indicated by “moving object detection (with moving object)”, and the detection of the user's operation is “IC card authentication”, “operation It is assumed that it is indicated by “part operation”.

  In step S1704, the calculation unit 1430 recalculates the detection distance of the moving object detection unit 1421 based on the calculated average time and a preset return time.

The new detection distance calculation formula is expressed by the following formula, as in the first embodiment.
New detection distance = (current detection distance ÷ average time) × recovery time This equation can also be expressed by the following equation.
New detection distance = (recovery time / average time) × current detection distance Further, when the coefficient α according to the above-described modification 2 is used, the new detection distance is expressed by the following calculation formula.
New detection distance = (recovery time / average time) x current detection distance x coefficient α
As described above, the calculation unit 1430 recalculates a new detection distance using the ratio between the preset return time and the average time calculated in step S1703. Thereby, when the average time is longer than the return time, the new detection distance is recalculated to be short, and when the average time is shorter than the return time, the new detection distance is recalculated to be long.

  In addition, the calculation unit 1430 calculates the coefficient according to information on the detection area that is set in advance, for example, information on “wide”, “normal”, and “narrow” set on the detection area setting screen in FIG. Change the value of α. For example, when “wide” is selected on the detection area setting screen of FIG. 9, the value of the coefficient α is changed to a value larger than “1.0” (eg, “1.2”). For example, when “narrow” is selected on the detection area setting screen in FIG. 9, the value of the coefficient α is changed to a value smaller than “1.0” (eg, “0.8”). The

  In the example of FIG. 16, the return time setting of the setting information 1443 is “until the operation panel is used”, and the return time until the operation panel is used in the device specific information 1442 is “1.5 seconds”. The set recovery time is 1.5 seconds.

  In step S1705, the setting unit 1431 sets the detection distance recalculated in step S1704 in the moving object detection unit 1421. As a result, the moving object detection unit 1421 detects the approach and separation of the moving object within the new detection distance range recalculated in step S1704.

(Recalculation judgment process)
For example, the determination unit 1429 performs the determination process illustrated in FIG. 18 every predetermined period (for example, every day, every week, etc.) or according to an operation by the administrator, and recalculates the detection distance. It is determined whether or not to perform.

  In step S1801, the determination unit 1429 of the image forming apparatus 1 acquires the history information 1441 stored in the storage unit 1440, and excludes information that satisfies a predetermined condition as necessary. For example, as shown in Modification 1 described above, the determination unit 1429 excludes information stored in the history information 1441 if there is unique information that exceeds a predetermined threshold.

  In step S <b> 1802, the determination unit 1429 acquires the number of histories in which there is no user operation between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation of the next moving body.

  In step S <b> 1803, the determination unit 1429 acquires the number of histories that the user has operated between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation of the next moving body.

  In the example of FIG. 15A, “operation detection” occurs between “moving object detection (with moving object)” with the number “4” and “moving object detection (without moving object)” with the number “5”. "Is not included. Similarly, “operation detection” is not included between the numbers “12” and “13”. Therefore, the number of times of no history of user operation between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation of the next moving body is two.

  Further, in FIG. 15A, the number “2” between the number “1” “moving body detection (with moving body)” and the number “3” “moving body detection (without moving body)”. "Operation detection". Similarly, “operation detection” is also included between the numbers “6” and “8” and the numbers “9” and “11”. Therefore, the number of times that the user has operated from the detection of the approach of the moving body to the separation of the next moving body is three.

  In step S1804, an average time from when the approach of the moving body is detected to when the user operation is detected is calculated. This process is similar to, for example, steps S1702 and S1703 in FIG.

  In step S1805, whether or not the number of history of no user operation between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation is equal to or greater than the recalculation threshold value (40% in the example of FIG. 16) of the device specific information 1442. Judging.

  When the number of histories in which there is no user operation between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation is equal to or greater than the threshold, the determination unit 1429 shifts the processing to step S1806. On the other hand, if the number of histories with no user operation between the detection of the approach of the moving body and the separation is less than the threshold, the process proceeds to step S1809.

  In step S1806, the determination unit 1429 determines whether or not the average time calculated in step S1804 is longer than a preset return time (1.5 seconds in the example of FIG. 16). If the calculated average time is longer than the preset return time, the determination unit 1429 determines to recalculate the detection distance in step S1807. On the other hand, when the calculated average time is not longer than the preset return time, the determination unit 1429 determines not to recalculate the detection distance in step S1808.

  In step S1809, the determination unit 1429 determines whether the average time calculated in step S1804 is shorter than a preset return time (1.5 seconds in the example of FIG. 16). If the calculated average time is shorter than the preset return time, the determination unit 1429 determines to recalculate the detection distance in step S1807. On the other hand, when the calculated average time is not shorter than the preset return time, the determination unit 1429 determines not to recalculate the detection distance in step S1810.

  With the above processing, the determination unit 1429 has a ratio that the history of user operations is not included between the detection of the approach of the moving object and the detection of the separation of the moving object is equal to or greater than a predetermined threshold. When the average time is longer than the return time, it is determined that the detection distance is recalculated. In this case, since the detection distance is long, many people (moving bodies) who do not use the image forming apparatus 1 are erroneously detected, and the person who uses the image forming apparatus can return to a predetermined power state. It is considered too early. Therefore, it is desirable that the detection distance of the moving body detection unit 1421 be recalculated to be shorter than the current detection distance.

  In addition, the determination unit 1429 determines that the ratio of the user's operation history not being included between the detection of the approach of the moving object and the detection of the separation of the moving object is less than a predetermined threshold, and the average When the time is shorter than the return time, it is determined that the detection distance is recalculated. In this case, there are few false detections of a person who does not use the image forming apparatus 1, and it is considered that the person who uses the image forming apparatus returns too slowly to a predetermined power state. Therefore, it is desirable that the detection distance of the moving body detection unit 1421 be recalculated longer than the current detection distance.

(Processing of image forming apparatus)
FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of processing of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment. Note that, in the sequence diagram of FIG. 19, broken arrows indicate user operations. It is assumed that the user has an IC card that is permitted to use the image forming apparatus 1.

  In step S1901, when the user approaches the range of the predetermined detection distance set in the moving body detection unit 1421 of the image forming apparatus 1, in step S1902, the moving body detection unit 1421 of the image forming apparatus 1 Detect approach.

  In step S1903, the moving body detection unit 1421 notifies the state control unit 1428 that the approach of the moving body has been detected.

  In step S1904, the state control unit 1428 shifts the power state of the image forming apparatus 1 to, for example, an “operable” state (an example of a predetermined power state). Accordingly, the user can use the operation unit 1210 of the image forming apparatus 1 or the IC card reader 1202, for example.

  In step S1905, for example, the state control unit 1428 notifies the history information management unit 1424 that an approach has been detected. This notification may be given from the moving body detection unit 1421 to the history information management unit 1424.

  In step S1906, the history information management unit 1424 stores information indicating that the approach of the moving object is detected, for example, “moving object detection (with moving object)” in FIG. 15B in the history information 1441. .

  In step S1907, when the user brings the IC card close to the IC card reader 1202 of the image forming apparatus 1, in step S1908, the IC card authentication unit 1422 acquires authentication information stored in the IC card and performs authentication processing. Do. Here, the following description is given on the assumption that the IC card has been successfully authenticated.

  In step S1909, the IC card authenticating unit 1422 notifies the state control unit 1428 of an authentication result indicating that the authentication is successful.

  In step S1910, the state control unit 1428 shifts the power state to the “normal” state.

  In step S1911, for example, the IC card authentication unit 1422 notifies the operation detection unit 1423 of an authentication result indicating that the authentication is successful.

  In step S1912, the operation detection unit 1423 detects that authentication has been performed by the IC card authentication unit 1422.

  In step S1913, the operation detection unit 1423 notifies the history information management unit 1424 that the authentication operation has been performed.

  In step S1914, the history information management unit 1424 stores information indicating that the authentication operation has been performed, for example, “IC card authentication (OK)” in FIG.

  In step S1915, when the user performs a scanning operation on the image forming apparatus 1, in step S1916, the operation unit 1210 that has received the operation notifies the image forming unit 1426 that the scanning operation has been received.

  In step S1917, the image forming unit 1426 executes a scanning process. At this time, the history information management unit 1424 may store history information indicating that the scanning process has been executed.

  In step S1918, for example, the operation unit 1210 notifies the operation detection unit 1423 that the scan operation has been accepted.

  In step S1919, the operation detection unit 1423 detects that a scan operation has been performed.

  In step S1920, the operation detection unit 1423 notifies the history information management unit 1424 that the scan operation has been performed.

  In step S1921, the history information management unit 1424 stores information indicating that a scanning operation has been performed, for example, “IC card authentication (OK)” in FIG.

  When the user leaves (separates from) the image forming apparatus 1 in step S1922, the moving body detection unit 1421 detects the separation of the moving body in step S1923.

  In step S1924, the moving body detection unit 1421 notifies the state control unit 1428 that the separation of the moving body has been detected. This notification may be given from the moving body detection unit 1421 to the history information management unit 1424.

  In step S1925, the state control unit 1428 notifies the history information management unit 1424 that the separation of the moving object has been detected.

  In step S1926, the history information management unit 1424 stores information indicating that the separation of the moving object is detected, for example, “moving object detection (no moving object)” in FIG. 15B in the history information 1441. .

  Note that the processing illustrated in FIG. 19 is an example, and the history information management unit 1424 may store various history information in the history information 1441 in accordance with a use, a system request, or the like.

  As described above, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes the operation detection unit 1423 that detects the user's operation, and is not limited to the operation on the operation unit 1210. For example, various user operations such as the IC card reader 1202 can be performed. Can be detected. For example, the user operation detected by the operation detection unit 1423 may be an authentication process other than IC card authentication such as fingerprint authentication, or may be performed by an operation by an operation unit outside the image forming apparatus 1 such as a remote controller or a smartphone. There may be.

  The history information 1441 managed by the history information management unit 1424 may include various history information other than the history of the approach and separation of the moving body and the first operation.

[Supplement of embodiment]
The functions of the units illustrated in FIG. 14 are realized by the CPU 1211 or the CPU 1221 illustrated in FIG. 12 executing programs stored in a storage device (for example, the storage unit 1224, the flash memory unit 1214, the ROM 1222, the ROM 1212, etc.). The However, the present invention is not limited to this, and at least a part of the functions of each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 may be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit (for example, a semiconductor integrated circuit).

  A program (control program) executed by the image forming apparatus 1 is a file in an installable format or an executable format, and is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as various discs, media, or a USB memory. And may be configured to be provided. Alternatively, the program executed by the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Further, various programs may be provided by being incorporated in advance in a nonvolatile recording medium such as a ROM.

[Other Embodiments]
In the first and second embodiments, the image forming apparatus 1 has been described as an example. However, in addition to the image forming apparatus 1, the present invention detects various approaches to detect the approach of a user and control the power state. It can be applied to an information processing apparatus. For example, the present invention can be applied to various information processing apparatuses such as a vending machine, an automatic teller machine (ATM), a video conference apparatus, an electronic blackboard, a PC, and a game machine.

1 Image forming device (information processing device)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Operation part 12 Document reading part 13 Paper feed part 14 Printing part 15 Paper discharge part 101 CPU
102 ROM
103 RAM
104 HDD (storage unit)
105 engine 106 operation unit (operation detection unit)
107 Human body detection sensor (moving body detection unit)
108 Communication I / F
111 Power control unit (state control unit)
112 Detection distance determination / calculation unit (calculation unit)
113 Device-specific information 114 History information 115 Sensor adjustment unit (setting unit)
2 External network 1421 Moving object detection unit 1423 Operation detection unit 1424 History information management unit 1425 Setting information management unit 1428 Status control unit 1429 Determination unit 1430 Calculation unit 1431 Setting unit 1440 Storage unit

JP 2013-230688 A

Claims (18)

A moving body detection unit that detects the approach of the moving body within a predetermined detection distance;
When the approach of the moving body is detected, a state control unit that returns the information processing apparatus to a predetermined power state;
An operation detection unit for detecting a user operation;
A storage unit that stores history information of the approach of the moving body and history information of the user's operation;
A calculation unit that recalculates the predetermined detection distance based on a preset recovery time required to return the information processing apparatus to the predetermined power state and history information stored in the storage unit When,
A setting unit for setting the recalculated predetermined detection distance in the moving body detection unit;
An information processing apparatus. The calculator is
Based on the history information stored in the storage unit, an average time from when the approach of the moving body is detected to when the user operation is detected is calculated,
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined detection distance is recalculated based on the return time and the calculated average time. The calculator is
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the predetermined detection distance is recalculated using a ratio between the return time and the calculated average time and the current predetermined detection distance. The calculator is
The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the average time is calculated by excluding information satisfying a predetermined condition from the history information stored in the storage unit. The moving body detection unit detects separation of the moving body within the predetermined detection range,
The storage unit stores history information of separation of the moving body,
The calculator is
Based on the history information stored in the storage unit, when the user's operation is not detected between the time when the moving object is detected and the time when the moving object is detected, the moving object The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 2 to 4, wherein the average time is calculated by excluding detection of an approach. The calculator is
Based on the history information stored in the storage unit, when a plurality of operations of the user are detected between the time when the moving body is detected and the time when the moving body is separated, The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the average time is calculated by excluding second and subsequent user operations among user operations. The calculator is
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 4 to 6, wherein the average time is calculated by excluding specific records from the history information stored in the storage unit.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 5, further comprising: a determination unit that determines whether to recalculate the predetermined detection distance based on history information stored in the storage unit. The determination unit
Between the time when the approach of the moving body is detected and the time when the separation of the moving body is detected, the ratio that the operation history of the user is not included is a predetermined threshold or more, and the average time is the return The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined detection distance is determined to be recalculated when longer than the time. The determination unit
Between the time when the approach of the moving body is detected and the time when the separation of the moving body is detected, the ratio that the user's operation history is not included is less than a predetermined threshold, and the average time is the return The information processing apparatus according to claim 8 or 9, wherein when the time is shorter than the time, it is determined that the predetermined detection distance is recalculated. An operation unit that receives the user's operation;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation detection unit detects an operation performed on the operation unit by the user. It has a human body detection sensor that detects the approach and separation of people,
The moving body detection unit is
Detecting the approach of the moving body using the human body detection sensor,
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein a predetermined detection distance set by the setting unit is set in the human body detection sensor. The calculator is
The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein a coefficient used for recalculation of the predetermined detection distance is changed based on information on a predetermined detection area. A history information management unit for storing history information in the storage unit;
The history information management unit
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein storage of history information in the storage unit is stopped for a preset period.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a setting information management unit that displays a setting screen for setting the return time on a display unit in a selectable manner.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is an image forming apparatus. A moving body detection unit that detects the approach of the moving body within a predetermined detection distance;
When the approach of the moving body is detected, a state control unit that returns the information processing apparatus to a predetermined power state;
An operation detection unit for detecting a user operation;
A storage unit that stores history information of the approach of the moving body and history information of the user's operation;
A calculation unit that recalculates the predetermined detection distance based on a preset recovery time required to return the information processing apparatus to the predetermined power state and history information stored in the storage unit When,
A setting unit for setting the recalculated predetermined detection distance in the moving body detection unit;
As a program to make the computer function as. A method of controlling a power state by a computer,
The computer is
Detecting the approach of a moving body within a predetermined detection distance;
Storing history information of the detected approach of the moving body in a storage unit;
When the approach of the moving body is detected, returning the computer to a predetermined power state;
Detecting a user operation;
Storing the detected user operation history information in the storage unit;
Recalculating the predetermined detection distance based on a preset recovery time required to return the computer to the predetermined power state and history information stored in the storage unit;
Setting the recalculated predetermined sensing distance;
Control method.

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