JP3897785B2 - Network system and network system control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a network system including a copying machine, a laser printer, a facsimile, a PC, a home appliance, and the like and a control program thereof, and particularly has an auto clear function, an auto shut off function, an auto preheat function, a screen save function, and the like. The present invention relates to a network system in which a copier, a laser printer, a facsimile, a PC, and the like are connected by an electric line or the like, and a control program for the network system.

Conventionally, when using an image forming apparatus on a network system, a PC, a home appliance, etc., an auto clear function, an auto shut-off function, an auto preheat function, a screen save function, etc. are set as required by the user. However, when this user finishes the job and a predetermined time (auto clear time, auto shut off time, auto preheat time) elapses, the operation settings, for example, the most commonly used operation settings are registered. Return to the initial setting operation mode. In this way, the next user can use the initial operation settings. The auto-clear time can be set to a mode in which the user selects the time according to his / her preference or does not return.
JP-A-9-269714 JP 2000-141820 A

  However, in the conventional technique, the mode is shifted to a predetermined setting mode at a constant time regardless of the time, regardless of whether the usage frequency for each time zone is low or the usage frequency for each time zone is high. That is, since the transition time is constant, when the frequency of use for each time zone is low, the transition time is relatively slow with respect to the frequency of use, and waste is increased. On the other hand, when the usage frequency for each time zone is high, the transition time is relatively fast with respect to the usage frequency, and the job of the worker is lost. Furthermore, although the use frequency of devices on the network, for example, the PC is high, the output frequency of the printer may be low, so that it may not be possible to output for a predetermined time. That is, the high frequency of use of the PC has a high probability of output from the printer.

In order to solve the above problems, according to the invention described in 請 Motomeko 1, and the terminal device, other and equipment and at least a plurality equipped, in one of its devices, the setting operating mode of the terminal device A control unit having an input means for inputting, a display unit for displaying the setting operation mode, and a function for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time elapses after the last input operation is completed. In the network system in which these devices are connected to each other, a transition time for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the predetermined setting mode is determined depending on the frequency of use of any device on the network system for each time zone. possess a transition time determining means determining said transition time determining means, the frequency of use of each said time slot is further subdivided the time period exceeds a predetermined frequency, the fine The present invention provides a network system characterized by determining the transition time of the differentiated time zone .
According to the second aspect of the present invention, at least a plurality of terminal devices and other devices are provided, and any one of the devices has an input means for inputting a setting operation mode of the terminal device, and the setting thereof. A display unit for displaying the operation mode; and a control unit having a function of shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time elapses after the last input operation is completed. A transition time determining means for determining a transition time for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to a predetermined setting mode according to the frequency of use of each device on the network system for each time zone in the network system connected to each other. And the transition time determining means further extends the time zone when the usage frequency for each time zone falls below a predetermined frequency, or merges with another time zone. There is provided a network system, characterized by determining a transition time of the extended the or coalesced hours.

According to the invention described in claim 15, there is provided a network system control program which causes a computer to function as each means in the network system according to any one of claims 1 to 14. To do.

According to the inventions according to claims 1 , 2 and 15, when the user wants to use (when the usage frequency is high), the transition time is set short, and when the user does not use much (when the usage frequency is low). In addition, since the transition time is set to be long, a quick operation can be performed when the usage frequency is high, and energy saving can be achieved when the usage frequency is low. Furthermore, for example, when the frequency of use of the terminal device is low, but when the frequency of use of the PC is high, the terminal device is used less frequently, so the transition time is quicker. However, it is extremely expensive. Such a problem is also determined to be frequently used, and the transition time is shortened. That is, it is possible to set the transition time according to the actual usage situation.

  In addition, the transition time is set longer when the user wants to use it (when the usage frequency is high), and the transition time is set shorter when the user does not use it frequently (when the usage frequency is low). When there is a large amount of time, for example, there is sufficient time until auto-clearing, so a quick operation can be performed, and when the frequency of use is low, auto-clearing is performed earlier, so that energy saving can be achieved.

Further , when the frequency of use of the device increases, the time zone is further subdivided when the predetermined frequency is exceeded, so that a detailed transition time can be determined.

Furthermore , when the frequency of use of the device decreases, the time zone is lengthened if the frequency falls below the predetermined frequency, so that a linear transition time can be determined.

  Next, according to the invention described in claim 4, the transition time determining means sets the transition time for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the auto clear mode, the auto shut-off mode, the auto preheat mode or the screen save mode. The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 3 is provided.

According to the invention described in claim 4, when the user wants to use (when the frequency of use is high), the auto-clear transition time, the auto shut-off transition time, the auto preheat transition time or the screen mode transition time is set to be long. These transition times are set short when they are not used very often (when they are not used frequently), so when there is a lot of use, there is enough time until auto clear, auto shut off, auto preheat or screen save. Therefore, quick operation can be performed, and when the usage frequency is low, auto clear, auto shut-off, auto preheat or screen save is performed early, so that energy saving can be achieved.

Next, according to the invention described in claim 5, the transition time determination means sets at least two transition times to the following relational expression B>C>A> D
A: auto clear time B: auto shut off time C: auto preheat time D: determined in a relationship satisfying screen save time.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, since each transition time is controlled by the above relational expression, smooth operation control can be performed for the user.

Next, according to the invention described in claim 6, the transition time determining means sets at least two transition times to the following relational expression B>C>D> A
A: auto clear time B: auto shut off time C: auto preheat time D: determined in a relationship satisfying screen save time.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, since each transition time is controlled by the above relational expression, smooth operation control can be performed for the user.

  Next, according to the invention described in claim 7, the use frequency for each time zone is the number of times the set operation mode is input for each time zone. A network system is provided.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since the use frequency for each time zone is the number of times the set operation mode is input, the use frequency can be counted linearly.

  Next, according to the invention described in claim 8, the use frequency for each time zone is a total time for inputting the set operation mode for each time zone. A network system is provided.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, since the usage frequency for each time zone is the total time for inputting the set operation mode, the usage frequency can be counted linearly.

  Next, according to the invention according to claim 9, the upper limit value of the transition time with respect to the transition time determined for each time zone according to the frequency of use of the devices on the network system for each time zone, or 9. The network system according to claim 1, wherein a lower limit value can be input.

  According to the ninth aspect of the invention, the user or the like can input the upper limit value or the lower limit value of the transition time in advance to determine the respective transition times while fulfilling the user's request.

  Next, according to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the transition time determining means determines the transition time based on the frequency of use of the other devices on the network system. The network system according to any one of Items 9 is provided.

  Next, according to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the transition time determining means determines the transition time based on the frequency of use of at least one or more devices selected in advance on the network system. A network system according to any one of claims 1 to 10 is provided.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus according to any one of the first to tenth aspects, the user or the like selects one of the devices in advance so that the respective requests can be met while satisfying the user's request. Transition time can be determined.

Next, according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the transition time determination means includes the use frequency (H1 to Hn) of devices on the network system and predetermined coefficients (K1 to Kn) determined by the respective devices. And the following relational expression:
Usage frequency Mn = H1 × K1 + H2 × K2 + H3 × K3 +... + Hn × Kn
12. The network system according to claim 1, wherein the transition time is determined based on a use frequency Mn of the network system set in a relationship satisfying .

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, the user or the like inputs in advance the predetermined coefficient (K1 to Kn) determined by each device, so that it is less relevant for determining the transition time to be determined respectively. Since the predetermined coefficient (K1 to Kn) can be increased for devices and the predetermined coefficient (K1 to Kn) can be decreased for highly related devices, the usage frequency can be accurately calculated. Furthermore, it is possible to determine each transition time while satisfying the user's request.

  Next, according to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the transition time determined by the transition time determining means is made to correspond to all the terminal devices that can be connected to the network. Item 13. A network system according to any one of Item 12 is provided.

The invention described in claim 1 3 This, by associating to every device capable tethered the determined transition time to the network, to the user, it provides easy to understand network system.

Next, according to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the transition time determined by the transition time determining means is made to correspond to a predetermined terminal device connected to the network. Ru der provides a network system according to any.

The invention described in claim 1 4 This user etc., by corresponding to a predetermined device, it is possible to determine the respective transition time while fulfill the needs of the user.

According to the present invention, when the user wants to use it (when the usage frequency is high), the transition time is set short, and when the user does not use much (when the usage frequency is low), the transition time is set long. When the frequency of use is high, a quick operation can be performed, and when the frequency of use is low, energy can be saved.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the accompanying drawings for understanding of the present invention. The following embodiments are examples embodying the present invention, and do not limit the technical scope of the present invention.

  Here, the connection is a connection including an electric public line, whether wired or wireless.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus on a network that employs the present invention, FIG. 2 is a basic screen of an operation panel of the image forming apparatus that employs the present invention, and FIG. 3 employs the present invention. FIG. 4 shows a function screen of the operation panel of the image forming apparatus adopting the present invention, and FIG. 5 shows an operation panel of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention. It is a frame erasing mode selection screen.

  An operation unit of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. First, the basic screen shown in FIG. 2 will be described. The display unit 1 is an LCD display unit, which also serves as a touch panel along with the display. On this screen, you can set magnification, cassette and bypass, duplex settings, photo mode, exposure, and so on. When the basic tab 111, the scaling tab 131, and the function tab 151 are touched, the function setting screen is displayed. The basic guidance display unit 112 displays a message such as “Can copy. The setting display unit 120 displays the current setting “100%, automatic paper” and the like. Other than those selected in the setting, a mask is applied as shown in the figure to make the current setting operation mode easy to understand. In this screen, the first cassette in which the magnification is 100%, the number of copies is 1 sheet, and the A4 landscape is set by automatic paper selection is selected, and the exposure is almost in the middle. No photo mode is selected.

  On the right side of the figure, a numeric keypad 2, a stop / clear key 3, an all clear key 4, and a start key 5 are provided. The numeric keypad 2 is used to input numerical values such as the number of copies, the stop / clear key 3 is a key for canceling the previous input, and the all clear key is a key for returning the set setting operation mode to the initial setting operation mode with one touch. It is. The start key 5 is used as a copy start key or a mode determination key.

  When the scaling tab 131 is selected, the screen is switched to a scaling screen shown in FIG. The scaling guidance display unit 132 displays information such as “Please set the magnification” to the user. When the cancel key 133 is selected, the input magnification ratio is returned to the basic screen while returning to 100% of the initial magnification ratio. Based on the document size and paper size, the default scaling key 134 is 70% for A3 → A4, A4R → A5, B4 → B5, 81% for B4 → A4, B4 → A3, B5 → A4, B5. The change of A4 is 115%, the change of A4 → A3, A5 → A4, and the change of B5 → B4 is a key for performing a predetermined magnification of 141%. When the 50% key 135 and the 200% key 136 are touched, respectively, the magnification setting is 50% and 200%. The scaling setting display unit 137 displays the current scaling ratio. When the enlargement key 138 and the reduction key 139 are touched or kept pressed, the magnification can be changed in increments of 1%. When the setting key 140 is selected, the screen returns to the basic screen while maintaining the input magnification.

  Next, when the function tab 151 is selected, the function selection screen shown in FIG. 4 is displayed. The function guidance display unit 152 displays information such as “Please select a function” to the user. Below that, there are arranged a double-sided key 153, a split key 154, a margin key 155, an OHP interleaf key 156, a sheet key 157, a frame erase key 158, and the like, which are keys for selecting functions. When the duplex key 153 is selected, the duplex copy mode is set. When the split key 154 is selected, for example, an A3 document is divided into two A4 sheets and copied. When the margin key 155 is selected, the screen is switched to a more detailed screen (not shown) and the margin can be set. When the OHP interleaving key is selected, the OHP sheet is fed from the manual paper feed unit and copied, and the paper is fed from another cassette to be an interleaf. When the sheet key is selected, the screen is switched to a more detailed screen (not shown), and settings such as a front cover, a back cover, and a partition sheet can be made.

  When the frame erase key 158 is selected, a more detailed frame erase mode selection screen 159 as shown in FIG. 5 is displayed. The frame erase mode guidance display portion 1591 displays “frame erase copy mode”, “Please select the type of document”, and the like. When the return key 1592 is selected, the function selection screen 15 is restored. A frame erase width selection key 1593 performs frame erase of the selected width. When the sheet frame erase key 1594 is selected, the frame around the paper is erased. When the book frame eraser 1595 is selected, the frame eraser around the paper and near the center in the document longitudinal direction is performed. When the arbitrarily set frame erasing key 1596 is selected, a detailed screen (not shown) is displayed, and fine frame erasing with numerical values can be performed.

  When the other tab 161 is selected, the screen is switched to a password input screen, a department management screen, a fee screen, etc. (not shown).

In this way, the setting operation mode can be set simply by tweaking the magnification, number of copies, exposure, etc., and the screens such as the margin, sheet mode, and frame erase mode are switched one after another to enter numerical values and make detailed settings. There are a variety of very complex settings operating modes to perform. In the present invention, the user can set an appropriate auto clear time for each of these setting operation modes.

  A block diagram of an image forming apparatus employing the present invention is shown in FIG. The display unit 1 and key input means (2 to 5) are key inputs such as the LCD display unit and the numeric keypad and start key described above. The control unit 6 includes an auto-clear time setting unit 61 for each set operation mode, an auto-clear time determination unit 62, a timer 63, a return unit 64, or the like, or each of which performs an equivalent action. . The ROM 7 stores initial setting operation mode data, table data in which the relationship of the auto clear time for each setting operation mode is determined, and other programs. The RAM 8 stores current setting operation mode data, image forming apparatus setting data, and the like.

  The auto-clear time setting means 61, which is a feature of the present invention, will be described with reference to FIG. This figure is a screen for setting the auto clear time for each set operation mode. In this embodiment, the basic screen tab is selected to enter this screen, but a dedicated hard switch may be provided. On the auto clear time setting screen guidance display portion 162 of this screen, a message such as “Set time until automatic return when each function is selected” is displayed. The auto clear time setting screen display unit 163 displays which screen is currently displayed. The setting operation mode-specific auto clear time setting key 163 can change the return time to the initial operation mode after operating the selected operation mode.

  The left side of each key is a setting operation mode, and there are simple ones such as magnification and number of copies, etc., as well as complicated ones such as a frame erasing mode and an OHP interleaf mode, and the right side displays the auto clear time for each set operation mode. Yes. The user selects one of the auto clear time setting keys 163 for each set operation mode on this screen and presses the UP key 167 to increase the time sequentially, and press the DOWN key 168 to decrease the time sequentially. When the previous function key 165 or the next function key 166 is pressed, the screen is switched to a screen for performing other user settings. These set auto-clear times for each set operation mode are stored and held in the RAM 8.

Form state of the first embodiment, after the last input operation of a device on the network termination, a function for shifting a predetermined time has elapsed set operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode, the device on the network A network system characterized by having a transition time determining means that determines according to the frequency of use.

  For example, when the personal computer Q1 and the personal computer Q2 are connected to the network system and the printer Q3 having a function of shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to the predetermined setting mode after a predetermined time has elapsed, the network system Is to determine the transition time determination by counting the total use frequency of Q1, Q2, and Q3.

  Further, in the first embodiment, the function of shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to the predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time has elapsed after the last input operation is ended, depending on the use frequency for each time zone. The transition time determining means determines the transition time for each time zone. The processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the figure, S101, S102... Indicate processing procedure (step) numbers. In S101, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S102, the number of times the network system is used in the selected time zone is counted.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock.

  Further, in S103, it is determined whether the number of times the network system is used is, for example, 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times the network system is used is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S104), and the process is terminated. If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S105, and it is determined whether it is 21 to 40 times. Here, if the network system is used 21 to 40 times, the transition time is set to 60 (S) longer than 45 (S) described above (S106), and the process ends. If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S107 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the network system is used 41 to 60 times, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S107), and the process ends. If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S109, and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. Here, if the number of times the network system is used is 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S110), and the process ends. If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S103 and repeats determination.

  The second embodiment (Claim 4) has an auto-clear function for shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time has elapsed after the last input operation is completed. A network system including an image forming apparatus having a transition time determining unit that determines a transition time for each time period according to the frequency of use will be described. In the present embodiment, the predetermined setting mode to be restored is the initial setting operation screen. For example, from the scaling screen (FIG. 3), the function screen (FIG. 4), and others (FIGS. 3 and 4), the basic screen is displayed. The state of transition is based on the transition time determined in (FIG. 2). That is, a network system including an image forming apparatus with good handling can be provided by shifting to an initial setting operation screen (for example, a basic screen (FIG. 2)) according to the determined transition time. The processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the figure, S201, S202... Indicate process procedure (step) numbers.

  In S201, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S202, the number of uses in the selected time zone is counted. Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock. Further, for example, table data is shown in FIG.

  Further, in S203, it is determined whether the number of uses is, for example, 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times of use is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S204) and the process ends.

  If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S205, and it is determined whether or not it is 21 to 40 times. If the number of times of use is 21 to 40, the transition time is set to 60 (S) longer than 45 (S) described above (S206), and the process ends. If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S207 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the number of times of use is 41 to 60, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S207), and the process ends. If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S209 and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. Here, if the number of uses is 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S210), and the process ends.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S203 and repeats determination.

  The third embodiment (Claim 4) has an automatic shut-off function for shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time has elapsed after the last input operation is completed. A network system including an image forming apparatus having a transition time determining means for determining a transition time for each time period according to the frequency of use of the network will be described, and the processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. . In the figure, S301, S302,... Indicate processing procedure (step) numbers.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock. Furthermore, for example, table data is shown in FIG.

  In S301, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S302, the number of uses in the selected time zone is counted.

  In S303, it is determined whether the number of times of use is, for example, 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times of use is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S304) and the process ends.

  If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S305, and it is determined whether it is 21 to 40 times. If the number of times of use is 21 to 40, the transition time is set to 60 (S) longer than 45 (S) described above (S306), and the process ends.

  If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S207 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the number of times of use is 41 to 60, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S307) and the process ends.

If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S309 and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. here,
If the number of times of use is 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S310) and the process ends.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S303 and repeats the determination.

  In the fourth embodiment (Claim 4), an auto preheat function for shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time elapses after the last input operation ends is provided for each time zone. An image forming apparatus having a transition time determining unit that determines a transition time for each time period according to the frequency of use will be described, and the processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. . In the figure, S401, S402,... Indicate processing procedure (step) numbers.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock. Further, for example, table data is shown in FIG.

  In S401, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S402, the number of uses in the selected time zone is counted.

  In S403, it is determined whether the number of times of use is, for example, 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times of use is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S404) and the process ends.

  If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S405, and it is determined whether or not it is 21 to 40 times. If the number of times of use is 21 to 40, the transition time is set to 60 (S) longer than 45 (S) described above (S406), and the process ends.

  If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S407 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the number of times of use is 41 to 60, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S407), and the process ends.

If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S409 and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. here,
If the number of times of use is 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S410) and the process ends.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S403 and repeats the determination.

  In the fifth embodiment (Claim 4), a screen save function for shifting the setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time elapses after the last input operation is completed is provided for each time zone. A network system including an image forming apparatus having a transition time determination unit that determines a transition time for each time zone according to the frequency of use will be described. The processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the figure, S501, S502... Indicate process procedure (step) numbers.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock. Further, for example, table data is shown in FIG.

  In S201, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S502, the number of uses in the selected time zone is counted.

  In S503, it is determined whether the number of times of use is, for example, 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times of use is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S504) and the process ends.

  If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S505, and it is determined whether or not it is 21 to 40 times. Here, if the number of uses is 21 to 40, the transition time is set to 60 (S) longer than 45 (S) described above (S506), and the process is terminated.

  If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S507 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the number of times of use is 41 to 60, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S507), and the process ends.

If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S509 and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. here,
If the number of times of use is 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S510) and the process ends.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S503 and repeats the determination.

  The sixth embodiment (Claim 7) describes a network system in which the use frequency for each time zone is the number of times the set operation mode is input, and will be described. Here, the transition time is determined based on the number of times the set operation mode is input as a parameter for the use frequency.

  The seventh embodiment (Claim 8) describes a network system in which the usage frequency for each time zone is the total time for inputting the setting operation mode, and will be described. Here, the transition time is determined by the total time during which the set operation mode is input as a parameter for use frequency.

The eighth embodiment (Claim 5) has at least two or more transition times determined for each time zone depending on the frequency of use for each time zone, and the following relational expressions B>C>A> D
A: Auto clear time B: Auto shut off time C: Auto preheat time D: A network system when the screen save time is satisfied will be described.

  That is, when the table data is used 0 to 20 times as shown in Table 1, B (100 (S))> C (60 (S))> A (45 (S))> D (30 (S )), And in the case of 21 to 40 times of use, B (120 (S))> C (100 (S))> A (60 (S))> D (45 (S)) and the number of uses 41 In the case of ˜60 times, B (180 (S))> C (160 (S))> A (120 (S))> D (100 (S)), and in the case of the usage count of 0-20 times, B (240 (S))> C (210 (S))> A (180 (S))> D (120 (S)) is set in advance.

Since such a setting is performed, in the case of the weighted auto shut-off transition time, the transition time is set to a long time,
Conversely, in the case of the auto-clear transition time with a light weight, the transition time is set to a short time.

  Therefore, the network system is efficient and easy to use for the user.

The ninth embodiment (Claim 6) has at least two or more transition times determined for each time zone depending on the frequency of use for each time zone, and each has the following relational expression B>C> D > A
A: Auto clear time B: Auto shut off time C: Auto preheat time D: A network system when the screen save time is satisfied will be described.

As shown in Table 2, B (100 (S))> C (
60 (S))> D (45 (S))> A (30 (S)), and in the case of 21 to 40 times of use, B (120 (S))> C (100 (S))> If D (60 (S))> A (45 (S)) and the usage count is 41 to 60 times, B (180 (S))> C (160 (S))> D (120 (S)) > A (100 (S)), and when the number of times of use is 0 to 20, B (100 (S))> C (210 (S))> D (180 (S))> A (120 (S) ) In advance.

Since such a setting is performed, in the case of the weighted auto shut-off transition time, the transition time is set to a long time,
Conversely, in the case of a screen save transition time with a light weight, the transition time is set to a short time.

  Therefore, the network system is efficient and easy to use for the user.

  The tenth embodiment (claim 9) is characterized in that it is possible to input an upper limit value or a lower limit value of the transition time with respect to the transition time determined for each time zone. This will be described with reference to Tables 3 and 4.

  For example, if the user sets the upper limit value as 180 (S) in advance, all values exceeding 180 (S) in the table data are changed to 180 (S) and rewritten into table data as shown in Table 3 It is done.

Further, a user 100 (S) the lower limit value, the value below 100 (S) in the table data by setting in advance, all been changed to 100 (S), the table data of Table 4 Rewritten.
Then, the transition time is determined by the new table 3 or table 4 changed.

In the eleventh embodiment (Claims 10 and 11), the transition for determining the transition time for each time zone of the terminal device is determined according to the usage frequency for each time zone of at least one or more devices selected in advance on the network system. A network system having time determining means will be described.

  For example, a personal computer Q1, a personal computer Q2, a personal computer Q3, and a personal computer Q4 are connected to the network system and a printer Q5 having a function of shifting a setting operation mode of the image forming apparatus to a predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time elapses. In this case, if at least one or more devices selected in advance are the personal computer Q1 and the personal computer Q2, the transition time for each time zone of the terminal device printer Q5 is determined according to the usage frequency for each time zone of Q1 and Q2. It is to determine the transition time determination.

  In the twelfth embodiment (Claim 12), the following relational expression is expressed by the usage frequency (H1 to Hn) of each device for each time zone and a predetermined coefficient (K1 to Kn) determined by each device. , Use frequency Mn = H1 × K1 + H2 × K2 + H3 × K3 +... + Hn × Kn describes a network system having a transition time determining means for determining a transition time for each time zone of a terminal device.

In the thirteenth embodiment (Claim 1 ), when the frequency of use of devices on the network for each time zone exceeds a predetermined frequency, the time zone is further subdivided and the transition time of the subdivided time zone is determined. The network system having the transition time determining means is described, and the processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the figure, S601, S602... Indicate processing procedure (step) numbers. In step S601, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. In step S602, the number of times the network system is used in the selected time zone is counted.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock.

  In step S603, it is determined whether the network system is used 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the number of times the network system is used is 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S604), and the process is terminated. If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S605, and it is determined whether or not it is 21 to 40 times. Here, if the number of times the network system is used is 21 to 40, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S606) and the process ends.

  If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S607 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the number of times the network system is used is 41 to 60, the transition time is set to 60 (S) (S607) and the process ends.

  If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S609, and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. If the network system is used 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S610).

  Further, the time zone is divided (S611). That is, for example, if the time zone is A6 (20-24 o'clock), A6 is set at 20-22 o'clock and A7 is set at 22-24 o'clock.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S603 and repeats the determination.

In the fourteenth embodiment (Claim 2 ), when the frequency of use of each device on the network is less than a predetermined frequency, the transition time for each time zone of the terminal device is set according to the time zone further extended. A network system having a transition time determining means for determining is described. The processing procedure will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. In the figure, S701, S702... Indicate processing procedure (step) numbers.

  In S701, one of A1 to A6 is selected from the current time zone. Proceeding to S702, the number of times the network system is used in the selected time zone is counted.

  Here, for example, from time slot A1 to A6, A1: 0-4 o'clock, A2: 4-8 o'clock, A3: 8-12 o'clock, A4: 12-16 o'clock, A5: 16-20 o'clock, A6: It is assumed that it is 20-24 o'clock.

  In step S703, it is determined whether the network system is used 20 times or less or 20 times or more. Here, if the network system is used 20 times or less, the transition time is set to 180 (S) (S704).

Further, the time zones are merged (S711). That is, for example, if the usage frequency is low, if the time zone is A5 (16:00 to 20:00) and A6 (20:00 to 24:00), A5 is set to 16:00 to 24:00.
If it is 20 times or more, the process proceeds to S705 and it is determined whether or not it is 21 to 40 times. Here, if the network system is used 21 to 40 times, the transition time is set to 120 (S) (S706), and the process ends.

  If it is 40 times or more, the process proceeds to S707 and it is determined whether it is 41 to 60 times. Here, if the network system is used 41 to 60 times, the transition time is set to 60 (S) (S707), and the process ends.

  If it is 60 times or more, the process proceeds to S709 and it is determined whether or not it is 60 times or more. If the network system is used 60 times or more, the transition time is set to 45 (S) (S710).

  Further, the time zone is divided (S711). That is, for example, if the time zone is A6 (20-24 o'clock), A6 is set at 20-22 o'clock and A7 is set at 22-24 o'clock.

  If it does not correspond anywhere, it returns to S703 and repeats determination.

The fifteenth embodiment (Claim 13 ) describes a network system in a case where the determined transition time is made to correspond to all compatible terminal devices connected to the network.

The sixteenth embodiment (Claim 14 ) describes a network system in the case where the determined transition time is made to correspond to a predetermined terminal device connected to the network.

1 is a block diagram of an image forming apparatus on a network that employs the present invention. The basic screen of the operation panel of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a scaling screen of an operation panel of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention. 4 is a functional screen of an operation panel of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention. The frame erasing mode selection screen on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus employing the present invention. The explanation screen of the auto clear time setting means of the present invention. Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 4) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 5) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 1) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 7) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 8) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 2) Flowchart explaining the present invention (Claim 3)

Explanation of symbols

1: Display unit (LDC)
2 to 5; Key input means 6; Control unit 61; Auto clear time setting means 62; Auto clear time determination means 63; Timer 64; Return means 7; ROM
8; RAM

Claims (15)

At least a plurality of terminal devices and other devices are provided, and any one of the devices has input means for inputting the set operation mode of the terminal device, a display unit for displaying the set operation mode, and the last input operation. In a network system having a control unit having a function of shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time has elapsed after the completion of the operation, and connecting these devices to each other,
The frequency of use of each time period of any device on the network system, possess a transition time determining means for determining a shift time for shifting the set operating mode of the terminal device to a predetermined setting mode,
The network system characterized in that the transition time determining means further subdivides the time zone when the usage frequency for each time zone exceeds a predetermined frequency, and determines the transition time of the subdivided time zone . At least a plurality of terminal devices and other devices are provided, and any one of the devices has input means for inputting the set operation mode of the terminal device, a display unit for displaying the set operation mode, and the last input operation. In a network system having a control unit having a function of shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to the predetermined setting mode when a predetermined time has elapsed after the completion of the operation, and connecting these devices to each other,
A transition time determining means for determining a transition time for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to a predetermined setting mode according to the frequency of use of any device on the network system for each time zone;
The transition time determination means further extends the time zone when the usage frequency for each time zone falls below a predetermined frequency, or merges with another time zone, and transition time of the extended or merged time zone A network system characterized by determining The transition time determination means further extends the time zone when the usage frequency for each time zone falls below a predetermined frequency, or merges with another time zone, and transition time of the extended or merged time zone The network system according to claim 1, wherein:   The transition time determining means determines a transition time for shifting the setting operation mode of the terminal device to an auto clear mode, an auto shut-off mode, an auto preheat mode, or a screen save mode. The network system according to any one of the above. The transition time determining means determines at least two transition times as follows: B>C>A> D
The network system according to claim 4, wherein A: auto clear time B: auto shut-off time C: auto preheat time D: screen save time is satisfied. The transition time determination means determines at least two transition times as the following relational expression B>C>D> A
The network system according to claim 4 , wherein A: auto clear time B: auto shut-off time C: auto preheat time D: screen save time is satisfied.   The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the use frequency for each time period is the number of times the set operation mode is input for each time period.   The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the use frequency for each time zone is a total time for inputting the set operation mode for each time zone.   The upper limit value or the lower limit value of the transition time can be input with respect to the transition time determined for each time period according to the use frequency for each time period. The network system according to claim 8.   The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein the transition time determination unit determines the transition time according to a use frequency of the other devices on the network system.   The network according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein the transition time determining means determines the transition time according to the frequency of use of at least one or more devices selected in advance on a network system. system. The transition time determining means includes the following relational expression based on the usage frequency (H1 to Hn) of devices on the network system and predetermined coefficients (K1 to Kn) determined by the respective devices.
Usage frequency Mn = H1 × K1 + H2 × K2 + H3 × K3 +... + Hn × Kn
12. The network system according to claim 1, wherein the transition time is determined based on a use frequency Mn of the network system set in a relationship satisfying the above.   The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the transition time determined by the transition time determination means is made to correspond to all compatible terminal devices connected to the network.   The network system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the transition time determined by the transition time determination means is made to correspond to a predetermined terminal device connected to the network. 15. A control program for a network system, which causes a computer to function as each of the means in the network system according to claim 1 .