JP2018165054A - Electronic apparatus having power-saving function - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic apparatus which can shift to the power-saving level according to the use frequency of the electronic apparatus such as an image formation apparatus, and start return processing to the stand-by state by detecting a person at the appropriate timing.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus includes: a storage unit which stores prescribed setting containing a plurality of power-saving levels; a determination unit which determines the power-saving level according to the prescribed setting corresponding to the current prescribed condition; and a human sensor 170. The electronic apparatus shifts to the power-saving level determined by the determination unit when the prescribed time elapses in the stand-by state, and shifts to the stand-by state when the human sensor detects a person. The detection distances L1-L3 and detection angles R1-R3 of the human sensor are set in accordance with the power-saving level. With this configuration, return processing can be started at the appropriate timing in accordance with the power-saving state.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device having a function of detecting a person and returning from a power saving state to a normal state, and more particularly, an electronic device capable of starting a return processing to a standby state at an appropriate timing according to the power saving state. Regarding equipment.

  As one type of image processing apparatus that is an electronic device, an image forming apparatus (typically a copier) that forms an image on recording paper is introduced in many offices (company, office, etc.). A multifunction peripheral (MFP (Multi Function Peripheral)), which is one type of such an image forming apparatus, has a copy mode, a facsimile mode (hereinafter referred to as a facsimile), a network compatible printer mode, and a scanner mode. A plurality of basic operation modes are provided.

  In recent years, energy saving has been proposed, and devices that are constantly energized and used in offices have a function of transitioning to a power saving state (hereinafter also referred to as an energy saving state or an energy saving mode). For example, in the image forming apparatus, a schedule for shifting from a normal standby state (a state in which an instructed function (copying or the like) can be immediately executed) to an energy saving mode with low power consumption is set.

  A power saving function (energy saving function) of a conventional image forming apparatus will be described with reference to FIG. When the power is turned on, the image forming apparatus supplies power to each unit, performs warm-up, and then enters a standby state at time T1, that is, a state in which normal operation is possible. Thereafter, when a predetermined time (first time Δt1) elapses without the image forming apparatus being operated (time T2), the image forming apparatus transitions to a preheating state. The preheating state is a state in which, for example, the power consumption is reduced by lowering the temperature of the fixing unit for image formation on the recording paper. This state has a lower power saving rate than an auto power shut-off state described later, but can return to a standby state in a relatively short time when an operation is received.

  Further, when a predetermined time (second time Δt2) elapses in the preheated state (time T3), the image forming apparatus enters an auto power shut-off state. The auto power shut-off state is a state in which the power supply to the operation unit and the fixing unit is stopped when the operation unit is not operated, and the power consumption is minimized to stand by.

  When the user performs a return operation such as pressing a predetermined button in the auto power shut off state (time Ta), the image forming apparatus returns from the auto power shut off state to the standby state. In the auto power shut-off state, the power saving rate is high, but it takes a relatively long time to return when an operation is received.

  Such an image forming apparatus having an energy saving function is set with a schedule as shown in FIG. 2 and realizes an energy saving function according to the use state of the image forming apparatus. Different standby periods (first time Δt1 and second time Δt2) are set for each level in FIG. The standby period is set as shown in Table 1, for example.

  That is, level 1 is set in a time zone where the use frequency of the image forming apparatus is high (the standby period is relatively long), and level 3 is set in a time zone where the usage frequency is low (the standby period is relatively short). Level 2 is set in the time zone of the usage frequency (normal usage frequency) between them (the waiting period is intermediate between levels 1 and 2).

  For example, the first time Δt1 and the second time Δt2 are set such that when the first time Δt1 becomes longer, the second time Δt2 also becomes longer. The standby period may be set such that the first time Δt1 is constant and the second time Δt2 (preheating period) is different.

  Patent Document 1 listed below discloses an energy optimum operation system for setting a time until shifting to power saving in a large ship or the like according to a time zone. This system predicts demand for the required propulsion power, the amount of heat required for heating the auxiliary equipment, and the amount of heat for air conditioning, based on the onboard energy prediction model including the residential area, the advance operation plan, and prediction information. And the output ratio of each of the plurality of engines is optimized based on the demand forecast. Based on the optimum conditions, it is disclosed that the propulsion power is predicted from the operation plan / time, number of passengers, weather forecast, sea state forecast using the ship's energy forecast model, and the energy management plan for the entire ship is drafted. ing.

  Patent Document 2 listed below includes a detection device having an imaging function, and uses a plurality of types of detection devices having different power consumption and operation specifications during operation to achieve both improvement in energy saving and convenience. An image processing apparatus is disclosed. This image processing apparatus includes a human sensor, an access camera, and an authentication camera as first to third sensors in order to monitor the presence or absence of a surrounding person. In the sleep mode, when the moving body (person) is detected by the human sensor in the sleep mode, the image processing apparatus determines whether or not the moving body is approaching by energizing the access camera, and cancels the sleep if approaching.

JP 2014-125123 A JP 2014-99205 A

  As described above, a predetermined energy saving effect can be obtained also by the conventional technique. However, it is preferable to realize further energy saving.

Conventionally, various proposals have been made regarding the transition of the image forming apparatus to the energy-saving state, but there has been no sufficient study regarding the return of the image forming apparatus from the energy-saving state to the normal state. Therefore, despite the high usage frequency of the image forming apparatus, it still takes time to return from the energy-saving state to the normal state, resulting in a decrease in work efficiency and causing the user to feel stress. Can occur.

  These problems cannot be solved even by the above-mentioned Patent Documents 1 and 2. The image processing apparatus described in Patent Document 2 can detect the approach of a person with a human sensor and a camera and return from the energy saving state, but the timing for returning from the energy saving state is the image processing of the detected person Determined by position relative to device. Therefore, depending on the level of the energy saving state, it may not be possible to return at an appropriate timing.

  Therefore, the present invention can make a transition to an energy saving level according to the frequency of use of an electronic device such as an image forming apparatus. When detecting a person and returning from a power saving state to a standby state, Another object of the present invention is to provide an electronic device capable of starting a return process to a standby state at an appropriate timing.

The electronic device according to the first aspect of the present invention is:
It is an electronic device that changes its operating state according to a selected energy saving level. The electronic device includes a control unit that controls the power consumption state of the electronic device, a detection unit that detects a person, and a setting that sets the detection sensitivity of the detection unit according to the energy saving level. The control unit shifts the electronic device to the energy saving level according to the selection, and shifts the electronic device to a standby state in response to detection of a person by the detection unit. The energy saving level includes a first energy saving level that consumes less power than the standby state and a second energy saving level that consumes less power than the first energy saving level. In the state transitioned to the level, the detection sensitivity of the detection unit is set higher than in the state where the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level.

  Thereby, according to the selected energy-saving level, an electronic device can be changed to an energy-saving state, and if a person is detected by the detection part, it can return from an energy-saving state to a standby state. The detection sensitivity of the detection unit is set higher in the energy saving state of the second energy saving level than in the energy saving state of the first energy saving level, so that a person at a distant position is detected and the standby state is entered at an early timing. The return process can be started. Therefore, the user who came to the electronic device can use the electronic device promptly.

  The electronic device which concerns on the 2nd aspect of this invention is an electronic device which changes an operation state according to the energy-saving level set for every predetermined condition. This electronic apparatus is an image forming apparatus, stores a predetermined setting including an energy saving level, reads the predetermined setting from the storage unit, and saves the energy saving level according to the predetermined setting corresponding to the current predetermined condition A control unit that controls the power consumption state of the electronic device, a detection unit that detects a person, and a setting unit that sets the detection sensitivity of the detection unit according to the energy saving level. The control unit transitions the electronic device to a preheated state in which the heater temperature of the fixing unit used for image formation is lowered in response to the elapse of a predetermined first time while the electronic device is in a standby state, When the predetermined second time elapses while the device is in the preheated state and the determination unit determines that the energy saving level corresponding to the current time zone is the first energy saving level, the electronic device is When the second time has elapsed while the electronic device is in a preheated state, the determination unit determines that the energy saving level corresponding to the current time zone is the second energy saving level. The electronic device is shifted to the second energy saving level, and the electronic device is shifted to the standby state in response to the detection of the person by the detection unit. The power consumption of the electronic device decreases in the order of the standby state, the preheating state, the first energy saving level, and the second energy saving level, and the setting unit has the electronic device in the state where the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level. The detection sensitivity of the detection unit is set higher than that in the state of transition to the first energy saving level.

As a result, the image forming apparatus is first transitioned from the standby state to the preheated state, thereby efficiently realizing energy saving. Further, the image forming apparatus is changed from the preheated state to the energy saving state according to a predetermined setting set in advance according to the use frequency of the image forming apparatus, and when a person is detected by the detection unit, the energy saving state is changed to the standby state. Can be restored.

  Preferably, the detection sensitivity is set by a detection distance, and the setting unit detects the detection unit in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level, rather than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. Set a longer distance.

  More preferably, the detection sensitivity is set according to the detection angle, and the setting unit is more sensitive to the detection unit in a state where the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. Set the detection angle wide.

  More preferably, the detection sensitivity is set by a detection angle and a detection distance, and the setting unit is more in a state where the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. The detection distance of the detection unit is set long and the detection angle is set wide.

  Accordingly, it is possible to cause the electronic device to start the return processing to the standby state at an appropriate timing according to the energy saving level. In addition, erroneous detection by the detection unit can be reduced in a time zone where the usage frequency is high.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to make a transition to the selected energy saving level and cause the electronic device to start the return processing to the standby state at an appropriate timing according to the power saving state.

  The energy saving level with low power consumption can achieve a high power saving effect, and when a person is detected at a relatively remote location, the process of returning to the normal state is started, so we came to the electronic equipment It is possible to avoid waiting the user. Further, at an energy saving level with low power consumption, the electronic device can be maintained in a power saving state until a person comes close to the electronic device, so that the power saving effect is enhanced. Also in this case, since the normal state can be restored in a short time, it is possible to avoid waiting for the user who has come to the electronic device. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a decrease in business efficiency and avoid stressing the user.

6 is a graph showing transition of an operation mode (power consumption state) in a conventional image forming apparatus. It is a figure which shows the schedule for implement | achieving an energy saving function. 1 is a front view showing an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus in FIG. 3. 4 is a graph showing a transition to an energy saving state in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 3. It is a top view which shows typically the difference in the detection distance of a human sensitive sensor. 4 is a flowchart showing a control structure of a program for realizing energy saving control in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 3. 4 is a graph showing return to a standby state in the image forming apparatus of FIG. 3. It is a top view which shows typically the difference in the detection range of the human sensitive sensor in the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program for realizing energy saving control in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention. It is a top view which shows typically the difference of the detection area of the human sensitive sensor in the image forming apparatus which concerns on the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program for realizing energy saving control in an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a control structure of a program for realizing energy saving control in an image forming apparatus according to a modification.

  In the following embodiments, the same parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

(First embodiment)
Referring to FIG. 3, the image forming apparatus 100 includes an image reading unit 110, an image forming unit 120, an operation unit 130, a paper feeding unit 140, a paper discharge tray 150, and a human sensor 170. The operation unit 130 includes a touch panel display 132 and an operation key unit 134.

  The human sensor 170 is a sensor for detecting the presence of a person, and is disposed on the front surface of the image forming apparatus 100. The human sensor 170 is, for example, an infrared sensor. The human sensor 170 receives infrared rays and outputs a signal corresponding to the received signal strength.

  Referring to FIG. 4, in addition to the above-described components, image forming apparatus 100 includes control unit 160, hard disk drive (hereinafter referred to as HDD) 162, management unit 164, image processing unit 166, communication unit 168, and power supply. A unit 174 and a timer 176 are provided.

The image reading unit 110 reads a document and inputs image data. The control unit 160 is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). The control unit 160
The image forming apparatus 100 includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) (not shown) for storing programs and the like and a RAM (Random Access Memory) (not shown) which is a volatile storage device. Control each part. The ROM stores programs and data necessary for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 100. The control unit 160 reads the program from the ROM onto the RAM, and executes the program using a part of the RAM as a work area. That is, the control unit 160 controls each part of the image forming apparatus 100 according to a program stored in the ROM, and realizes each function of the image forming apparatus 100.

  The operation unit 130 receives an input of an instruction or the like from the user to the image forming apparatus 100. The communication unit 168 communicates with an external device such as a computer via the network 190. The image forming unit 120 prints image data on a recording sheet. The HDD 162 stores image data. The management unit 164 stores control information, setting information, and the like of the image forming apparatus 100.

  The control unit 160 controls the operation of the entire image forming apparatus 100 based on the information stored in the management unit 164. The image processing unit 166 performs various image processing on the read image data. In addition, the control unit 160 acquires the current time from the timer 176 as appropriate, and operates in a predetermined operation mode according to the schedule stored in the HDD 162. The schedule is set in advance via the operation unit 130 by an administrator or the like. In the normal mode, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to supply power supplied to the image forming apparatus 100 from the outside to each unit via a power supply line (not shown). In the energy saving mode, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit (for example, the operation unit 130, a fixing unit described later).

  The paper feed unit 140 includes a plurality of paper feed trays. In FIG. 4, a first paper feed tray 142 and a second paper feed tray 144 are typically shown.

  Hereinafter, each part of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described more specifically. The image reading unit 110 includes, for example, a CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) 112 as an image reading device, and a document detection sensor 114 that detects a document set on a document table, an automatic document feeder (ADF), or the like. And.

  The operation unit 130 includes an operation key unit 134 having various input keys (hardware keys), and a touch panel display 132 in which a touch panel is disposed on a display panel such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display). ing. A user inputs operations and various settings to the image forming apparatus 100 via the operation unit 130.

  The control unit 160 monitors user operations on the touch panel display 132 and input buttons provided on the operation unit 130, and notifies the touch panel display 132 of information to be notified to the user such as information on the state of the image forming apparatus 100. indicate.

  The image forming unit 120 processes and outputs the image data. The image forming unit 120 includes a memory 122 and a printing unit 124.

  The image forming unit 120 temporarily stores the image data read by the image reading unit 110 in the memory 122, and then stores the image data on the memory 122 in the HDD 162. Further, the image forming unit 120 reads the image data stored in the HDD 162 to the memory 122, transmits it to the printing unit 124, prints it on a recording sheet, and outputs it. The printed recording paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray 150.

  The HDD 162 stores input image data. The HDD 162 is a magnetic storage medium, and can store a large amount of image data and sequentially process it. As a result, the image forming apparatus 100 can efficiently process instructions from a plurality of users.

  The image processing unit 166 is controlled by the control unit 160 that receives a user instruction from the operation unit 130, reads image data from the memory 122, executes the instructed image processing, and stores the result in the memory 122. . The processed image data is displayed on the touch panel display 132 via the control unit 160. Thereafter, the image data on the memory 122 is transmitted to the printing unit 124 and printed on a recording sheet in response to a user instruction, or output to the network 190 via the communication unit 168. If the image forming apparatus 100 includes a FAX modem and is connected to the telephone line network, the image data on the memory 122 can be output to the telephone line via the FAX modem.

  The printing unit 124 includes an optical scanning device, a developing device, a photosensitive drum, a charger, an intermediate transfer belt unit, a fixing unit, and the like. If the image forming apparatus 100 is an apparatus capable of color printing using toners of each color of black (K), cyan (C), magenta (M), and yellow (Y), a developing device, a photosensitive drum, and Four chargers are provided so as to form four types of latent images corresponding to the respective colors.

  After the electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data is formed on the photosensitive drum by the optical scanning device, a toner image corresponding to the electrostatic latent image is formed on the photosensitive drum by the developing device. The intermediate transfer belt unit transfers the toner image on the photosensitive drum onto the intermediate transfer belt, and then transfers the toner image onto a recording sheet conveyed from the tray. The fixing unit includes a heat roller and a pressure roller. The heat roller is heated by a heater, and the heat roller and the pressure roller are rotated with the recording paper interposed therebetween, and the multicolor toner image transferred to the recording paper is melted, mixed, and pressed by the thermocompression bonding. Heat fix. As a result, an image is formed on the recording paper.

  Hereinafter, the energy saving control of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described. Here, it is assumed that the same schedule as in FIG. 2 is set in the image forming apparatus 100. Further, it is assumed that the auto power shut-off state includes a plurality of levels (specifically, levels 1 to 3), and each level is determined as shown in Table 2, for example. That is, levels 1 to 3 are for setting the power consumption level of the image forming apparatus 100, unlike the above-described conventional technology.

  At this time, the image forming apparatus 100 controls the operation mode as shown in FIG. When the power is turned on, the image forming apparatus 100 supplies power to each unit, executes warm-up, and then enters a standby state at time T1, that is, a state in which normal operation is possible. Thereafter, when a predetermined time (first time Δt1) elapses without the image forming apparatus 100 being operated (time T2), the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to a preheating state. Further, when a predetermined time (second time Δt2) elapses in the preheated state (time T3), the image forming apparatus 100 enters an auto power shut-off state. At this time, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to the energy saving mode according to the current time zone according to the schedule. If the energy saving mode in the current time zone is set to level 1 in the schedule, the power consumption level is changed to a relatively high energy saving level. If the energy saving mode in the current time zone is set to level 3, the energy consumption level is changed to a relatively low energy consumption level. If the energy saving mode in the current time zone is set to level 2, the power consumption transitions to an energy saving level between levels 1 and 3.

  In the following, levels 1 to 3 represent information on the energy saving mode set in the schedule and also represent power consumption (energy saving level) at which the actual image forming apparatus 100 transitions.

  The detection sensitivity of the human sensor 170 is set according to each energy saving level. Here, the detection distance is used as the detection sensitivity, and distances L1 to L3 are set in correspondence with levels 1 to 3, for example, as shown in Table 2. The human sensor 170 can detect a person within a set detection distance. As shown in FIG. 6, the distances L1 to L3 become longer in the order of L1, L2, and L3. In FIG. 6, the broken line indicates the outer periphery of the image forming apparatus 100.

  FIG. 6 schematically shows the difference in detection distance with the detection range (two-dimensional distribution) of the human sensor 170 as a fan, and the shape of the detection range depends on the actually used sensor. Different.

The detection distance of the human sensor 170 can be changed electrically or mechanically, and a known circuit or mechanism may be used. For example, when an infrared sensor (such as a pyroelectric sensor) is used as the human sensor 170, an output signal from the infrared sensor is amplified by an amplifier and output. If the output signal from the amplifier is equal to or higher than a predetermined level, it can be determined that a person has been detected. The detection sensitivity of the sensor decreases as the distance from the sensor increases. Therefore, by changing the amplification factor of the amplifier that amplifies the output signal from the sensor,
The detection distance of the sensor can be changed.

  With reference to FIG. 7, a control structure of a program for the image forming apparatus 100 to realize the above-described energy saving function will be described. This program is activated when the power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on and an operation screen (for example, a home screen for selecting an operation mode) is displayed on the operation unit 130. When the program is started, the human sensor 170 is turned off.

  In step 300, the control unit 160 acquires information indicating the current time (hereinafter simply referred to as the current time) from the timer 176 and stores it in the RAM.

  In step 302, the control unit 160 determines whether or not a predetermined first time Δt1 has elapsed since the current time was stored in step 300. Specifically, control unit 160 acquires the current time from timer 176, compares the acquired time with the time stored in RAM in step 300, and determines whether or not first time Δt1 has elapsed. . If it is determined that the first time Δt1 has elapsed, the control proceeds to step 306. At this time, the control unit 160 stores the acquired current time in the RAM. Otherwise control passes to step 304.

  In step 304, the control unit 160 determines whether or not the operation unit 130 has been operated. When it is determined that the operation has been performed, the control unit 160 executes the corresponding process, and then the control returns to step 300. For example, the control unit 160 activates a program for executing an instruction corresponding to the operation. Otherwise (if not operated) control returns to step 302.

  When the first time Δt1 elapses without the image forming apparatus 100 being operated, in step 306, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to a preset preheating state. Specifically, the control unit 160 restricts or stops power supply to a predetermined unit in order to control the power supply unit 174 to be in a preheating state. For example, the fixing temperature is lowered by reducing the amount of power supplied to the heater of the fixing unit. Here, it is assumed that power supply to the touch panel display 132 of the operation unit 130 is maintained, the backlight is turned on (lit), and the human sensor 170 remains off.

  In step 308, the control unit 160 determines whether or not a predetermined second time Δt2 has elapsed since the current time was stored in step 302. Specifically, the control unit 160 acquires the current time from the timer 176, compares the acquired time with the time stored in the RAM in step 302, and determines whether or not the second time Δt2 has elapsed. . If it is determined that the time has elapsed, the control proceeds to step 314. Otherwise, control passes to step 310.

  In step 310, the control unit 160 determines whether or not the operation unit 130 has been operated. If it is determined that it has been operated, the control proceeds to step 312. Otherwise (if not operated) control returns to step 308.

  In step 312, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to a standby state. Thereafter, control returns to step 300. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to resume power supply to the unit that has been limited or stopped.

In step 314, the control unit 160 determines whether or not the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is level 1. The control unit 160 can acquire the current time from the timer 176 and refer to the schedule stored in the HDD 162 at the acquired time to determine the energy saving mode set in the current time zone. If it is determined that it is level 1, control proceeds to step 318. Otherwise control passes to step 316.

  In step 316, the control unit 160 determines whether or not the energy saving mode determined from the schedule in step 310 is level 2. If it is determined that it is level 2, control proceeds to step 320. Otherwise (energy saving mode determined from the schedule is level 3), the control proceeds to step 322.

  In step 318, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 1 energy saving mode, sets a detection distance corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and turns on the human sensor 170. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 1 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . For example, processing such as stopping power supply to the main board while maintaining power supply to the sub-board among the plurality of control boards is executed. At this time, the backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off, and the display screen of the operation unit cannot be visually recognized. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection distance is set to the distance L1. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  In step 320, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 2 energy saving mode, sets a detection distance corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and turns on the human sensor 170. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 2 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . For example, the power supply to a plurality of control boards (main board and sub board) and motors is limited or stopped, and the backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection distance is set to the distance L2. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  In step 322, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 3 energy saving mode, sets a detection distance corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and turns on the human sensor 170. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 3 in addition to power control in the preheating state. . For example, power supply to a plurality of control boards (main board and sub board), a motor, a heater of a fixing unit, and the like are stopped, and the backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection distance is set to the distance L3. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  In step 324, the control unit 160 determines whether or not a person has been detected. Specifically, control unit 160 determines whether or not a signal of a predetermined level or higher is received from human sensor 170. If a signal of a predetermined level or higher is received from the human sensor 170, the control proceeds to step 322. Otherwise, step 324 is repeated. At this time, how close a person is to the image forming apparatus 100 is detected by the human sensor 170 depends on the detection distance set in steps 318 to 320.

  In step 326, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 from the energy saving mode to the standby state, and turns off the human sensor 170. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to restart the power supply to the unit that has been limited or stopped, and stops the power supply to the human sensor 170. The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned on. Thereafter, control returns to step 300.

  This program is executed while the power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on, and ends when the power of the image forming apparatus 100 is turned off.

  In step 324, the transition to the standby state when a person is detected is as shown in FIG. That is, in FIG. 8, after the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to level 1 in step 318, after the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to level 2 in step 320, or in step 322, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to level 3. After that, the change in power consumption of the image forming apparatus 100 when a person is detected by the human sensor 170 at time Ta is schematically shown. As can be seen from FIG. 8, the time from the level 1 state to the standby state is the shortest, and the time from the level 3 state to the standby state is the longest. The time required to return from the level 2 state to the standby state is intermediate between the transition from level 1 and level 3.

  In FIG. 8, the transition from the level 1 to the level 3 to the standby state is shown with almost the same slope, but actually, the slopes are not the same. The slope for each level from level 1 to 3 depends on which unit is configured to be limited or stopped at each level. Normally, at level 3, the energization of the unit that takes a relatively long time from the resumption of energization to the return to the normal state, such as the energization of the heater of the fixing unit being stopped, is stopped. Is more gradual than levels 1 and 2, and the time to return to the standby state is longer.

  As described above, in the schedule of FIG. 2, level 1 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is high, and level 3 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is low. If level 2 is set in the usage frequency time zone, when the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the energy saving mode in the high usage frequency zone, the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the level 1 which is the shallow energy saving mode. The detection distance of the sense sensor 170 is set to a relatively short distance L1 (step 318). When the human sensor 170 detects that a person has approached the image forming apparatus 100, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, since the image forming apparatus 100 can return to the standby state in a relatively short time, the process of returning to the standby state after it is detected that a person has approached the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 100 (within the distance L1). Even when the operation is started, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 can be maintained in an energy saving state for a longer time.

  In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in a time zone where the usage frequency is low, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the deep energy saving mode level 3 and the detection distance of the human sensor 170 is set to a relatively long distance L3. (Step 322). Therefore, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 100 can be minimized. When the human sensor 170 detects a person, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, although it takes a relatively long time for the image forming apparatus 100 to return to the standby state, the human sensor 170 can detect a person who is relatively far from the image forming apparatus 100 (within a distance L3). Therefore, the start timing of the return processing to the standby state can be advanced. Therefore, when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state.

In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in the normal usage frequency period, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the level 2 that is the intermediate energy saving mode, and the detection distance of the human sensor 170 is set to the medium distance L2. It is set (step 320). Therefore, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in power consumption and the start timing of the return processing to the standby state when a person is detected by the human sensor 170 in a well-balanced manner. Also in this case, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated.

  In this way, by setting the detection sensitivity (detection distance) of the human sensor 170 according to the energy saving level, it is possible to reduce power consumption and according to the speed of return from the energy saving mode to the standby state. Thus, the return process can be started at an appropriate timing. Therefore, it is possible to avoid a situation in which a person waits in front of the image forming apparatus 100 without being able to operate until the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state.

(Second Embodiment)
In the first embodiment, the detection distance of the human sensor 170 is set according to the energy saving level. On the other hand, in the second embodiment, the detection angle of the human sensor 170 is set according to the energy saving level.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, and the reference numerals in FIGS. 3 and 4 are cited. The energy saving function of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. That is, the schedule shown in FIG. 2 is set in the image forming apparatus 100, and the mode is changed to the energy saving mode as shown in FIG. The detection sensitivity of the human sensor 170 is set according to each energy saving level, as in the first embodiment. However, unlike the first embodiment, a detection range is used as the detection sensitivity. For example, as shown in Table 3, ranges R1 to R3 are set corresponding to levels 1 to 3.

  Ranges R1 to R3 represent detection angles as shown in FIG. 9, and become wider in the order of R1, R2, and R3. In FIG. 9, the broken line indicates the outer periphery of the image forming apparatus 100.

  FIG. 9 schematically shows the difference in the detection range with the detection range (two-dimensional distribution) of the human sensor 170 as a fan, and the shape of the detection range depends on the actually used sensor. Different. The detection range of the human sensor 170 can be changed electrically or mechanically, and a known circuit or mechanism may be used. For example, when an infrared sensor (such as a pyroelectric sensor) is used as the human sensor 170, a shutter member (such as a deflection filter) that can electrically control the infrared transmission range is disposed on the front surface of the sensor. Thus, the detection angle can be changed electrically. For example, the narrow detection range R1 can be realized by making the portion of the shutter member facing the center of the sensor transmissive to infrared rays and making the other portions impermeable to infrared rays. Furthermore, the detection ranges R2 and R3 can be realized by sequentially increasing the area of the portion that can transmit infrared rays.

  With reference to FIG. 10, a control structure of a program for the image forming apparatus 100 to realize the above-described energy saving function will be described. The flowchart of FIG. 10 is obtained by replacing steps 318 to 322 with steps 400 to 404 in the flowchart of FIG.

  This program is activated when the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on and an operation screen (home screen) is displayed on the operation unit 130. When the program is started, the human sensor 170 is turned off.

  In steps 300 to 308, when the first time Δt1 has elapsed, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to the preheating state, and determines whether or not the second time Δt2 has elapsed in the preheating state. In the preheating state, for example, the control unit 160 decreases the fixing temperature by decreasing the amount of power supplied to the heater of the fixing unit while maintaining the power supply to the touch panel display 132 of the operation unit 130. The backlight is turned on (lit), and the human sensor 170 remains off.

  When the second time has elapsed, it is determined in step 314 whether or not the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is level 1. If it is determined that the level is 1, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to the level 1 energy saving mode in step 400, sets a detection range corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and the human sensor 170. Turn on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 1 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off, and the display screen of the operation unit is not visible. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection range is set to the range R1. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  If it is determined in step 314 that the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is not level 1, it is determined in step 316 whether or not the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is level 2. If it is determined that the level is 2, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to the level 2 energy saving mode in step 402, sets a detection range corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and the human sensor 170. Turn on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 2 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection range is set to the range R2. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  If it is determined in step 316 that the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is not level 2, in step 404, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 3 energy saving mode and sets the set energy saving mode. The detection range corresponding to is set and the human sensor 170 is turned on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 3 in addition to power control in the preheating state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection range is set to a range R3. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  Thereafter, when a person is detected in steps 324 and 326, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions from the energy saving mode to the standby state, and the human sensor 170 is turned off. At this time, how close a person is to the image forming apparatus 100 is detected by the human sensor 170 depends on the detection range set in steps 400 to 404. The transition of the image forming apparatus 100 to the standby state is as shown in FIG. 8 as in the first embodiment.

As described above, in the schedule of FIG. 2, level 1 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is high, and level 3 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is low. If level 2 is set in the usage frequency time zone, when the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the energy saving mode in the high usage frequency zone, the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the level 1 which is the shallow energy saving mode. The detection range of the sensation sensor 170 is set to a relatively narrow range (narrow angle) R1 (step 400). When the human sensor 170 detects that a person has approached the image forming apparatus 100, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, since the image forming apparatus 100 can return to the standby state in a relatively short time, the process of returning to the standby state after it is detected that a person has approached the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 100 (within the range R1). Even if is executed, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 can be maintained in an energy saving state for a longer time.

  Further, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in a time zone where the usage frequency is low, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the deep energy saving mode Level 3 and the human sensor 170 has a relatively wide detection range (wide angle). R3 is set (step 404). Therefore, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 100 can be minimized. When the human sensor 170 detects a person, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, although it takes a relatively long time for the image forming apparatus 100 to return to the standby state, the human sensor 170 can detect a person who is relatively far from the image forming apparatus 100 (within range R3). Therefore, the start timing of the return processing to the standby state can be advanced. Therefore, when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state.

  In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in the normal usage frequency period, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the level 2 which is the intermediate energy saving mode, and the detection range of the human sensor 170 is a medium range (medium Is set to R2 (step 402). Therefore, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in power consumption and the start timing of the return processing to the standby state when a person is detected by the human sensor 170 in a well-balanced manner. Also in this case, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated.

(Third embodiment)
In the first and second embodiments, the detection distance or detection angle of the human sensor 170 is set in accordance with the energy saving level. On the other hand, in the third embodiment, the detection region (area) of the human sensor 170 is set according to the energy saving level.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment, and the reference numerals in FIGS. 3 and 4 are cited. The energy saving function of the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment is the same as that of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. That is, the schedule shown in FIG. 2 is set in the image forming apparatus 100, and the mode is changed to the energy saving mode as shown in FIG. The detection sensitivity of the human sensor 170 is set according to each energy saving level, as in the first embodiment. However, unlike the first embodiment, a detection distance and a detection angle are used as detection sensitivity. For example, as shown in Table 4, areas A1 to A3 are set corresponding to levels 1 to 3.

  Regions A1 to A3 represent areas that can be detected as shown in FIG. 11, and widen in the order of A1, A2, and A3. The region Ai (i = 1 to 3) is a fan-shaped region having a radius Li (i = 1 to 3) and an angle Ri (i = 1 to 3). In FIG. 11, the broken line indicates the outer periphery of the image forming apparatus 100.

  Note that FIG. 11 schematically shows the difference in the detection area using the detection area (two-dimensional distribution) of the human sensor 170 as a fan, and the shape of the detection area depends on the actually used sensor. Different. The detection area of the human sensor 170 can be changed electrically or mechanically, and a known circuit or mechanism may be used. For example, when an infrared sensor (such as a pyroelectric sensor) is used as the human sensor 170, a shutter member (such as a deflection filter) that can electrically control the infrared transmission range is disposed on the front surface of the sensor. The detection area (detection distance and detection angle) can be electrically changed by changing the amplification factor of the amplifier that amplifies the output signal from the sensor and the infrared transmission range of the shutter member.

  With reference to FIG. 12, a control structure of a program for the image forming apparatus 100 to realize the above-described energy saving function will be described. The flowchart of FIG. 12 is obtained by replacing steps 318 to 322 with steps 500 to 504 in the flowchart of FIG.

  This program is activated when the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on and an operation screen (home screen) is displayed on the operation unit 130. When the program is started, the human sensor 170 is turned off.

  In steps 300 to 308, when the first time Δt1 has elapsed, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to the preheating state, and determines whether or not the second time Δt2 has elapsed in the preheating state. In the preheating state, for example, the control unit 160 decreases the fixing temperature by decreasing the amount of power supplied to the heater of the fixing unit while maintaining the power supply to the touch panel display 132 of the operation unit 130. The backlight is on (lit), and the human sensor 170 is off.

  When the second time has elapsed, it is determined in step 314 whether or not the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is level 1. If it is determined that the level is 1, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to the level 1 energy saving mode in step 500, sets a detection range corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and the human sensor 170. Turn on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 1 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off, and the display screen of the operation unit is not visible. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection area is set to the area A1. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

If it is determined in step 314 that the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is not level 1, it is determined in step 316 whether or not the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is level 2. If it is determined that it is level 2, in step 502, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 2 energy saving mode, sets a detection range corresponding to the set energy saving mode, and the human sensor 170. Turn on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 2 in addition to power control in a preheated state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection area is set to the area A2. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  If it is determined in step 316 that the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone is not level 2, in step 504, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 to the level 3 energy saving mode and sets the energy saving mode that has been set. The detection range corresponding to is set and the human sensor 170 is turned on. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to limit or stop power supply to a predetermined unit in order to achieve level 3 in addition to power control in the preheating state. . The backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned off. The human sensor 170 is turned on, and the detection area is set to the area R3. Thereafter, control proceeds to step 324.

  Thereafter, when a person is detected in steps 324 and 326, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions from the energy saving mode to the standby state, and the human sensor 170 is turned off. At this time, how close a person is to the image forming apparatus 100 is detected by the human sensor 170 depends on the detection area set in steps 500 to 504. The transition of the image forming apparatus 100 to the standby state is as shown in FIG. 8 as in the first embodiment.

  As described above, in the schedule of FIG. 2, level 1 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is high, and level 3 is set for a time period when the use frequency of the image forming apparatus 100 is low. If level 2 is set in the usage frequency time zone, when the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the energy saving mode in the high usage frequency zone, the image forming apparatus 100 transits to the level 1 which is the shallow energy saving mode. The detection range of the sensation sensor 170 is set to a relatively narrow region (narrow area) A1 (step 500). When the human sensor 170 detects that a person has approached the image forming apparatus 100, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, since the image forming apparatus 100 can return to the standby state in a relatively short time, the process of returning to the standby state after it is detected that a person has approached the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 100 (within the area A1). Even when the process is executed, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 100 can be maintained in an energy saving state for a longer time.

  In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in a time zone where the frequency of use is low, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the deep energy saving mode Level 3 and the human sensor 170 has a relatively wide detection area (wide area). A3 is set (step 504). Therefore, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 100 can be minimized. When the human sensor 170 detects a person, the image forming apparatus 100 returns to the standby state. At this time, although it takes a relatively long time for the image forming apparatus 100 to return to the standby state, the human sensor 170 can detect a person who is relatively far from the image forming apparatus 100 (within the region A3). Therefore, the start timing of the return processing to the standby state can be advanced. Therefore, when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state.

In addition, when the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the energy saving mode in the normal usage frequency period, the image forming apparatus 100 shifts to the intermediate energy saving mode level 2, and the detection area of the human sensor 170 is a medium area (medium A certain area) A2 is set (step 502). Therefore, it is possible to achieve both a reduction in power consumption and the start timing of the return processing to the standby state when a person is detected by the human sensor 170 in a well-balanced manner. Also in this case, the image forming apparatus 100 can be in a standby state when a person arrives at a position where the image forming apparatus 100 can be operated.

(Modification)
In the first to third embodiments, the case where the backlight of the touch panel display 132 is turned on in the preheated state has been described, but the present invention is not limited to this. The backlight may be turned off in the preheating state. In that case, when a person approaches the image forming apparatus 100 in the preheating state, it is necessary to turn on the backlight of the touch panel display 132, and it is preferable to turn on the human sensor 170 when transitioning to the preheating state. This can be realized by a program shown in FIG. 13, for example. The flowchart of FIG. 13 is obtained by replacing steps 306, 310, and 312 with steps 600, 602, and 604 in the flowchart of FIG.

  The program in FIG. 13 is activated when the image forming apparatus 100 is turned on and an operation screen (home screen) is displayed on the operation unit 130, as in the first embodiment. When the program is started, the human sensor 170 is turned off.

  If it is determined in step 302 that the first time Δt1 has elapsed, in step 600, the control unit 160 causes the image forming apparatus 100 to transition to a preset preheating state and turn on the human sensor 170. Specifically, the control unit 160 restricts or stops power supply to a predetermined unit in order to control the power supply unit 174 to be in a preheating state. Here, the power supply to the touch panel display 132 is also stopped, and the backlight is turned off (extinguished). The human sensor 170 is turned on. The detection distance is set to an initial value set in advance. The initial value is, for example, a distance shorter than the distance L1 (see Table 2). The initial value may be the same as the distance L1.

  Thereafter, when it is determined in step 308 that the second time Δt2 has elapsed, in step 602, the control unit 160 determines whether or not a person has been detected. Specifically, control unit 160 determines whether or not a signal of a predetermined level or higher is received from human sensor 170. If a signal of a predetermined level or higher is received from the human sensor 170, the control proceeds to step 604. Otherwise, control returns to step 308.

  In step 604, the control unit 160 shifts the image forming apparatus 100 from the energy saving mode to the standby state, and turns off the human sensor 170. Thereafter, control returns to step 300. Specifically, the control unit 160 controls the power supply unit 174 to restart the power supply to the unit that has been limited or stopped, and stops the power supply to the human sensor 170.

  Thereafter, in steps 314 to 322, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions to a level corresponding to the energy saving mode corresponding to the current time zone. In this state, when a person is detected in steps 324 and 326, the image forming apparatus 100 transitions from the energy saving state to the standby state, and the human sensor 170 is turned off.

  As described above, since the backlight of the touch panel display 132 can be turned off in the preheated state, further power saving can be realized.

Also in the second and third embodiments, the backlight of the touch panel display 132 can be turned off in the preheated state by changing the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 12 in the same manner as described above.

  In said 1st-3rd embodiment, although the case where the human sensitive sensor 170 was an infrared sensor was demonstrated, it is not limited to this. Any sensor that can detect a person approaching the image forming apparatus 100 and can change the detection sensitivity may be used.

  Moreover, although the above demonstrated the case where the detection sensitivity of the human sensitive sensor 170 was set according to the energy saving level, it is not limited to this. For example, a plurality of sensors having different detection sensitivities may be provided, and the sensor to be used may be changed according to the energy saving level.

  Further, for example, a sensor for measuring the distance to the object is used as the human sensor 170, and the distance to the object (person) detected from the image forming apparatus 100 and the detection distances L1 to L3 (Table 2). Compare with reference) to determine whether to return to the standby state. For example, in the level 1 state, if the distance L from the image forming apparatus 100 to the object (person) detected is L ≦ L1, the standby state is restored, and if L> L1, the energy saving state is established. To maintain. In the level 2 state, if L ≦ L2, the standby state is restored, and if L> L2, the energy saving state is maintained. In the level 3 state, if L ≦ L3, the standby state is restored, and if L> L3, the energy saving state is maintained.

  Similarly, using a sensor that detects an angle, the angle between the reference axis of the sensor and the detected object (person) and the ranges (angles) R1 to R3 (see Table 3) are compared, and the standby state It may be determined whether or not to return to.

  In said 1st-3rd embodiment, although the case where the energy saving level (energy saving mode) was three steps of levels 1-3, it was not limited to this. The energy saving level may be two steps or four or more steps.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where the image forming apparatus further transitions to any one of levels 1 to 3 after transitioning from the standby state to the preheating state has been described. There may be no state. Further, the preheating state may be set to level 1.

  In the first to third embodiments, the case where the timing of transition from the preheating state to the level 1 to 3 state is determined by measuring the elapsed time from the start of the transition to the preheating state is described. However, it is not limited to this. You may determine by measuring the elapsed time from the time of starting a standby state.

  In each energy saving level, the unit to which the power supply to the image forming apparatus is limited or stopped is not limited to the above example, and can be arbitrarily set according to the function and the internal configuration of the image forming apparatus. .

  In the first to third embodiments, the image forming apparatus has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to this. The present invention can be applied to an electronic device having a power saving function.

  The present invention has been described above by describing the embodiment. However, the above-described embodiment is an exemplification, and the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and is implemented with various modifications. be able to.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 110 Image reading part 120 Image forming part 122 Memory 124 Printing part 130 Operation part 132 Touch panel display 134 Operation key part 140 Paper feed part 150 Paper discharge tray 160 Control part 166 Image processing part 170 Human sensor 174 Electric power supply part 176 timer 190 network

Claims (6)

An electronic device that transitions its operating state according to the selected energy saving level,
Control means for controlling the power consumption state of the electronic device;
Detection means for detecting a person;
Setting means for setting the detection sensitivity of the detection means according to the energy saving level,
The control means transitions the electronic device to an energy saving level according to the selection, and
In response to the person being detected by the detection means, the electronic device is shifted to the standby state,
The energy saving level includes a first energy saving level that consumes less power than a standby state and a second energy saving level that consumes less power than the first energy saving level,
The setting means sets the detection sensitivity of the detection means to be higher in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. machine. An electronic device that transitions the operating state according to the energy saving level set for each predetermined condition,
The electronic device is an image forming apparatus,
Storage means for storing predetermined settings including the energy saving level;
A determination unit that reads out the predetermined setting from the storage unit and determines the energy saving level according to the predetermined setting corresponding to a current predetermined condition;
Control means for controlling the power consumption state of the electronic device;
Detection means for detecting a person;
Setting means for setting the detection sensitivity of the detection means according to the energy saving level,
The control means transitions the electronic device to a preheated state in which the heater temperature of the fixing unit used for image formation is lowered in response to the elapse of a predetermined first time while the electronic device is in a standby state. Let
A predetermined second time has passed while the electronic device is in the preheated state, and the determination means determines that the energy saving level corresponding to the current time zone is the first energy saving level, Transitioning the electronic device to the first energy saving level;
The second time elapses while the electronic device is in the preheated state, and the determination means determines that the energy saving level corresponding to the current time zone is a second energy saving level, Transitioning the electronic device to the second energy saving level; and
In response to the person being detected by the detection means, the electronic device is shifted to the standby state,
The power consumption of the electronic device decreases in the order of the standby state, the preheating state, the first energy saving level, the second energy saving level,
The setting means sets the detection sensitivity of the detection means to be higher in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. machine. The energy saving level is preset for each predetermined condition,
Storage means for storing predetermined settings including the energy saving level;
A determination unit that reads out the predetermined setting from the storage unit and determines the energy saving level according to the predetermined setting corresponding to a current predetermined condition;
The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit selects the energy saving level determined by the determination unit and causes the electronic device to transition to the energy saving level. The detection sensitivity is set by a detection distance,
The setting means sets a detection distance of the detection means longer in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. Item 4. The electronic device according to any one of Items 1 to 3. The detection sensitivity is set by a detection angle,
The setting means sets a detection angle of the detection means wider in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level than in a state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. Item 4. The electronic device according to any one of Items 1 to 3. The detection sensitivity is set by a detection angle and a detection distance,
In the state where the electronic device has transitioned to the second energy saving level, the setting unit has a longer detection distance and a detection angle than the state in which the electronic device has transitioned to the first energy saving level. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device is widely set.

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