JP4053225B2 - Image forming apparatus, control method therefor, and recording medium - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus such as an electrophotographic apparatus provided with a heat fixing device, a control method thereof, and a recording medium.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a facsimile machine that prints by a thermal fixing method, heat is applied to the toner image on the transfer paper to fix it on the transfer paper. Even in a standby state in which printing is not performed, the fixing heating roller is kept at a temperature close to 185 ° C. by the fixing heater. However, since this method consumes a large amount of power, the “standby state” in which the printing operation can be started immediately continues continuously for a certain time or more in order to reduce the power consumption during the period when the thermal fixing device is not used. In this case, a control that automatically shifts to a “power saving state” in which the power supplied to the fixing heater and some control circuits of the heat fixing device is reduced or cut off has been proposed and put into practical use.
[0003]
This power saving state has two stages of “low power state” and “off mode state”. In the low power state, the control temperature of the thermal fixing device is lowered from the standby state to reduce the energization power to the fixing heater. In the off mode state, the energization to the fixing heater of the thermal fixing device is completely cut off, and the energization to some control plates is also cut off. In any state, the temperature of the thermal fixing device is lower than that in the standby state, so in order to start the copying operation, a “warm-up operation” is required to raise the temperature of the thermal fixing device to be the same as the standby state Become.
[0004]
In the low power state or the off mode state, only the power LED of the operation unit is turned on, only the power key switch and the preheat key switch can be received, the other LEDs and the LCD are turned off, and other key switches and By not accepting touch panel input, the power consumption is reduced compared to the standby state. Here, the copy conditions (such as paper feed tray setting and variable magnification setting) input and set by the user when the last copy operation is performed are cleared when the low power state or the off mode state is entered. Therefore, when returning from these power saving states to the standby state by pressing the power key switch or the preheating key switch, the initial conditions are restored.
[0005]
On the other hand, the specifications of the device are being changed so as to significantly shorten the fixing rise time of the thermal fixing device.With this specification change, the return time from the power saving state to the standby state and the standby state to the power saving state There is a need for a control method that can flexibly cope with shortening of the transition time.
[0006]
Incidentally, as this type of apparatus, there are JP-A-11-157172 and JP-A-11-202690.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the conventional technique, when the time for shifting from the standby state to the power saving state is shortened, for example, after the series of copy operations is completed, the user is preparing for the next copy operation, while the user is preparing for the next copy operation. This causes a disadvantage that the operation unit display disappears. In this case, the user operates a specific key switch, returns from the power saving state to the standby state through the warm-up operation, and then inputs a copy condition (image forming condition) or presses the copy start key. The copy operation needs to be resumed. In particular, even when returning from the power saving state to the standby state, the copy condition set last by the user before the transition to the power saving state is cleared, so that there is a problem that it is troublesome for the user to perform the operation again. Specifically, if the transition time to the power saving state is short, for example, when making a copy of a book document, the power saving state is kept while a page to be copied is opened and the next page to be copied is opened. The copy condition that has been set is cleared and the copy condition must be set again.
[0008]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus, a control method thereof, and a storage medium that can improve such problems and can maintain an image forming condition set by a user before a state transition in a power saving state. There is to do.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to transition from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped, and to return from the power saving state to the standby state. And a condition holding unit that holds the image forming conditions set immediately before the transition to the power saving state even after the transition to the power saving state, and the final image forming operation is completed with the image forming conditions. Control means for changing the held image forming condition to an initial image forming condition when a preset initialization time has elapsed sinceIt has a power switch for supplying power by user operation,An operation / display unit for displaying at least the image forming conditions and instructing the start of image formation and setting of the image forming conditions, and supplying power to the operation / display unit in a power saving state, and the initialization time After a whileExcept for the power switchPower supply means for stopping power supply to the operation / display means,Return from power saving mode to standby mode by operating the power switchThere is a special feature.
[0010]
Since the last image forming conditions (copy conditions, etc.) set before the standby state are saved, when the printer returns from the power saving state to the standby state, the image forming operation starts immediately without resetting the image forming conditions. It will be possible.
[0012]
  Also,When the initialization time has elapsed since the last image forming operation ended, including the standby state and power saving state, the last image forming condition is cleared and returned to the initial condition. Make no mistakes.
  While the image forming conditions are held, key input is effective even in the power saving state, and the image forming conditions are displayed on the display unit. After confirming the image forming conditions, a start instruction or an image forming condition setting (change) can be instructed, and miscopying can be prevented.
[0013]
  As a reference, the present inventionOperation / display means for displaying at least image forming conditions, instructing image formation start and setting of image forming conditions, and power supply means for supplying power to the operation / display means in a power saving stateIt has a configuration.
[0014]
By always turning on the display function of the operation unit, the user can recognize the image forming conditions and instruct the start of image formation even in the power saving state.
[0015]
  Claim 2The invention described inClaim 1In the aboveIn the power saving state before the initialization time elapses, the control means can operate by operating the start key on the operation / display means.After returning from the power-saving state,In the condition holding meansImage formation is performed under the image forming conditions that have been held or in the initial image forming conditions.Getting startedThere is a feature.
[0016]
The display function of the operation unit is always turned on, and an image formation start instruction can be received and input. When the image formation start instruction is issued even in the power saving state, the image display apparatus automatically returns to the standby state and the image is displayed. The forming operation is executed.
[0017]
  Claim 3The invention described inClaim 1 or 2In the aboveWhen recovering from the power saving state,It is characterized in that it has a return display means for displaying that it is returning from the power saving state.
[0018]
In the power saving state, when an instruction to start image formation is input by pressing the start key switch, a warm-up operation is performed before the image forming operation is started. By displaying to the user that the warm-up period is in progress, the user does not mistake the warm-up operation as an erroneous operation.
[0019]
  As a reference, the present inventionAcceptance input means for accepting and inputting an instruction for setting the image forming condition in the power saving state, and receiving the instruction for setting the image forming condition in the power saving state by the accepting input means to input the instruction. And a control means for returning from the power saving state to the standby state.It has a configuration.
[0020]
When in the power saving state, the display function of the operation unit is always turned on, and other than the image formation start instruction can be accepted and input, for example, image forming conditions can be input without pressing a special return key. It is possible to control to shift from the warm-up operation to the standby state by pressing a key switch for touching or touching the touch panel.
[0021]
  As a reference, the present inventionAccepting and inputting an instruction for setting image forming conditions in the power saving state by the acceptance input means, and when the instruction is validated and returning from the power saving state to the standby state, a message indicating that the power saving state is being restored is displayed. Equipped with return indication meansIt has a configuration.
[0022]
When a key switch other than the start key switch is pressed or the touch panel is touched in the power saving state, the warm-up operation is performed after the key processing is performed, and the standby state is restored. By displaying to the user that the warm-up period is in progress, the user does not mistake the warm-up operation as an erroneous operation. Here, for example, by changing the display method between the warm-up operation for the image forming operation and the warm-up operation for returning to the standby state, the user's erroneous operation is further reduced.
[0025]
  Claim 4The invention described inClaim 1In the aboveUntil the initialization time elapsesThe condition holding means includes a holding display means for displaying whether or not the image forming conditions are held.
[0026]
Since only whether or not the image forming conditions are maintained is displayed regardless of the liquid crystal display of the operation unit, power consumption due to the display function of the operation unit is suppressed.
[0027]
  For reference, the present inventionPower saving means is provided for stopping power supply to the operation / display means except for the power switch in a power saving state.It has a configuration.
[0028]
In the power saving state, the image forming conditions arbitrarily set by the user are held for a predetermined period, and the standby state is restored by pressing a key other than the start key switch (power switch).
[0029]
  As a reference, the present inventionA holding display means for displaying whether or not the image forming conditions are held in the condition holding means, a display means for displaying at least the image forming conditions, and an instruction for instructing start of image formation and setting of the image forming conditions And a power supply means for supplying power to the instruction means in a power saving state, and prohibits power supply to the display means in the power saving state.It has a configuration.
[0030]
By dividing the operation unit into an operation unit for a display function such as a liquid crystal display (first operation unit control board, etc.) and an operation unit for an instruction input function (second operation unit control board, etc.) Even if the power supply used for the display function is stopped in the power state, the instruction input function such as the start key can be utilized. Furthermore, by independently displaying whether or not the image forming condition is maintained by using an LED or the like, the user can visually recognize whether or not the image forming condition before shifting to the standby state is maintained even in the power saving state.
[0031]
  Claim 5The invention described inClaims 1-4In any of the above, there is a feature that setting means for arbitrarily setting the transition time for shifting from the standby state to the power saving state and the initialization time is provided.
[0032]
The transition time and initialization time can be appropriately set according to the usage method and environment of the user.
[0033]
  Claim 6According to the invention described in the above, image formation is possible that enables a transition from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped and a return from the power saving state to the standby state. A method for controlling an apparatus, a condition holding step for holding an image forming condition set immediately before shifting to a power saving state even after shifting to a power saving state, and a timing step for measuring an elapsed time from a standby state; When the preset transition time elapses while maintaining the image forming conditions, the power saving transition step for transitioning to the power saving state, the image forming start instruction is accepted in the power saving state, and the return from the power saving state is performed. After the return, the image forming step for forming an image with the held image forming conditions, and when the preset initialization time has elapsed from the standby state, the held image forming conditions. An initialization step for changing the image forming condition to an initial state, a display / instruction step for displaying at least the image forming condition and supplying power for instructing the start of image formation in the standby state, and the power saving state Then, when the power is supplied and the initialization time has elapsed,Except for the power switch for supplying the power by user operationA display / instruction stop step for stopping the supply of power;Standby transition step for returning from the power saving state to the standby state by operating the power switch;It is characterized by having.
[0034]
The last image formation conditions (copy conditions, etc.) set before the standby state can be saved and used, and the display function of the operation unit is always turned on to receive an instruction to start image formation in the power saving state. Therefore, the operability for the user is improved.
[0036]
  Also,After the predetermined initialization period, the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared and returned to the initial condition, so that other users will not mistake the image forming condition.
  Further, when the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared, the display function of the operation unit is turned off, so that the power used particularly for the display function is reduced to save power.
[0039]
  Claim 7The invention described inClaim 6In the aboveUntil the initialization time elapsesDisplays that the image forming conditions that were set immediately before the transition to the power saving state are retained after the transition to the power saving stateHas holding display stepThere is a special feature.
[0040]
Since it is displayed whether or not the image forming conditions set before the standby state are held, the user does not mistake the image forming conditions. In addition, the display function of the operation unit is turned off when shifting from the standby state to the power saving state such as the off mode, so the power used for the display function is reduced while maintaining the image forming conditions set before the standby state. This will save power.
[0041]
  Claim 8In the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus transits from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped, and returns from the power saving state to the standby state. A condition storage step for storing the image forming conditions set immediately before the transition to the power saving state and the elapsed time from the standby state are measured. When the preset transition time elapses while maintaining the image forming conditions while measuring the time, the power saving transition step for shifting to the power saving state, and the image forming start instruction is received in the power saving state. After the return, the image forming step for forming an image with the held image forming conditions and the initialization time set in advance from the standby state are retained. An initialization step for changing the image formation condition to an image formation condition in an initial state; and a display / instruction step for supplying power for displaying at least the image formation condition and instructing start of image formation in the standby state; In the power saving state, when the power is supplied and the initialization time has elapsed,Except for the power switch for supplying the power by user operationA display / instruction stop step for stopping the supply of power;Standby transition step for returning from the power saving state to the standby state by operating the power switch;The present invention is characterized in that a program for executing the control method is recorded.
[0042]
  here,Claim 6A program for executing the control method described in (1) is stored in a ROM or the like, and is executed using a controller, RAM, or the like. The program may be downloaded to a ROM or the like from an external device on the LAN via an interface, for example. As described above, the last image formation conditions (copy conditions, etc.) set before the standby state can be saved and used, and the display function of the operation unit is always turned on to form an image in a power saving state. Since the start instruction is received, the operability for the user is improved.
[0044]
  Claim 6A program for executing the control method described in (1) is stored in a ROM or the like, and is executed using a controller, RAM, or the like. The program may be downloaded to a ROM or the like from an external device on the LAN via an interface, for example. As described above, after the initialization period set in advance from the standby state, the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared and returned to the initial condition, so that other users do not mistake the image forming condition.
[0046]
  Claim 6A program for executing the control method described in (1) is stored in a ROM or the like, and is executed using a controller, RAM, or the like. The program may be downloaded to an ROM or the like from an external device on the LAN via an interface, for example. As described above, when the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared, the display function of the operation unit is turned off, so that the power used especially for the display function is reduced to save power.
[0047]
  Claim 9The invention described inClaim 8In the aboveUntil the initialization time elapsesDisplays that the image forming conditions that were set immediately before the transition to the power saving state are retained after the transition to the power saving stateWith retention display stepIt is characterized in that a program for executing the control method is recorded.
[0048]
  here,Claim 12A program for executing the control method described in (1) is stored in a ROM or the like, and is executed using a controller, a RAM, or the like. The program may be downloaded from an external device on the LAN to a ROM or the like via an interface, for example. As described above, since it is displayed whether or not the image forming conditions set before the standby state are held, the user does not mistake the image forming conditions. In addition, the display function of the operation unit is turned off when shifting from the standby state to the power saving state such as the off mode, so the power used for the display function is reduced while maintaining the image forming conditions set before the standby state. This will save power.
[0049]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of a multifunction copying machine (image forming apparatus) according to a first embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 shows a configuration of a control unit of the multifunction copying machine, and FIG. The operation part of a copying machine is shown.
[0050]
The multi-function copying machine 100 is connected to a communication device such as a facsimile machine (not shown) via a public line, and is connected to a communication device such as a host computer (not shown) via a network. .
[0051]
In FIG. 1, a printer unit 1 is provided with a printer engine unit (not shown) of an electrophotographic system and a heat fixing system, and a facsimile function for recording (printing) an image received from a public line by a FAX communication unit 8. A copy function for recording (printing) an image read and input from the scanner unit 2 by an electrophotographic method, and a printer function for recording (printing) an image from a host computer connected via the network interfaces 24 and 25. Have. In order to realize these functions, the printer engine unit receives information from each unit of the printer engine unit via a serial communication line, and controls the units based on this information (shown in FIG. 2). Engine control board 17, engine drive board 20, writing control board 30, etc.), optical system control section for controlling the optical system such as scanner motor, laser, etc., temperature control section for temperature control and abnormality detection of fixing heater 32, paper feed Transfer paper size detection unit for detecting the size of transfer paper in the paper feed cassettes of units 5, 6, 9 and paper feed unit presence / absence detection for detecting the presence or absence of transfer paper at each paper feed slot of the paper feed cassette, manual feed, and option cassette Transfer sheet transfer control unit for controlling transfer of the transfer sheet, sensor input unit (pressure plate opening / closing sensor 13, document set sensor 14 and reading sensor 16 shown in FIG. Which includes a detection information) includes a like. The fixing rise time of the fixing heating roller (not shown) is determined by the roller temperature, the roller ambient temperature, the roller heat capacity, the output of the fixing heater 32, etc., but in this embodiment, it can be started from any state. The longest rise time is 10 seconds.
[0052]
The scanner unit 2 (including an automatic document feeder (ADF)) reads a document at the time of facsimile transmission, encodes it, stores it in an image memory (such as the RAM 23), and sends it to the FAX communication unit 8 while reading it at the time of copying. The image information is sent to the printer engine unit for output onto transfer paper. In addition, an operation unit (corresponding to the operation unit control board 15 shown in FIG. 2) provided with the scanner unit 2 includes a key group such as a start key 39, a numeric keypad 38, and a clear / stop key 37 shown in FIG. Light emitting diodes (LEDs), a touch panel 34, a liquid crystal display (LCD) 35, a backlight 36, a power switch 12, and the like, and an operation mode setting / display and operation start / stop instruction in the facsimile / copy function. Is configured to be possible by user operation. In addition, the touch panel 34 has both an input operation unit including function keys that appear as appropriate for each screen and a display unit for displaying a message indicating the number of copies and the device status. Settings such as an operation mode by a user operation are transmitted from the operation unit control board 15 to the controller 26 and stored in the RAM 23 in an updatable manner.
[0053]
A FAX communication unit (fax control board 28, NCU 29, etc. shown in FIG. 2) is arranged on the back side of the printer unit 1, and transmits image information stored in the image memory to a destination communication terminal through a public line. On the other hand, the image received from the other party communication terminal is sent to the printer engine unit in order to output it on the transfer paper.
[0054]
The post-processing unit 3 discharges transfer paper on which the print request data from the host computer is printed, or transfer paper on which an image read by the scanner unit 2 is output, and includes a plurality of paper discharge trays. The post-processing unit 7 discharges transfer paper on which facsimile reception data from the facsimile apparatus is printed.
[0055]
The paper feeding units 5 and 9 and the mass paper feeding unit 6 include a paper feeding cassette that accommodates transfer paper. The double-sided portion 4 reversely conveys the transfer paper after single-sided printing in order to perform double-sided printing. The manual paper feed unit 10 feeds transfer sheets one by one manually, and is configured to be folded and accommodated when not in use.
[0056]
In FIG. 2, the operation unit control board 15 is driven by a + 5VE power supply from the power supply unit 31 and continues to operate even in the power saving state, and accepts a display for the user and an instruction input from the user. Further, the operation unit control board 15 notifies the controller 26 of an instruction input signal (UART) by pressing the key switch (LED / key switch 11) of the operation unit or touching the touch panel 34. The power switch 12, the pressure plate open / close sensor 13, and the document set sensor 14 in the ADF are connected to the controller 26 through the operation unit control plate 15 and / or the engine control plate 17, and an instruction input signal by these operations is a controller. 26 is notified directly.
[0057]
The controller 26 controls the entire copying machine and the FAX / printer function, and is a network for connecting a memory such as a hard disk device (HDD) 21, ROM 22 and RAM 23 and an external device such as the host computer. Interfaces 24 and 25 are provided. The network interfaces 24 and 25 are, for example, a “1394 board” that supports an IEEE 1394 interface or a “PHY board” that supports a 100/10 BASE-T interface for Ethernet, and receives data from an external device such as a host computer. It is for receiving.
[0058]
The controller 26 converts the data received from the host computer or the like via the network interfaces 24 and 25 into raster data that can be printed by the printer unit 1 and develops the raster data. Here, the print data transmitted from the host computer or the like describes the character type, print width, line feed width, etc. in page description language (PDL), and the data type includes text, raster graphics, For example, vector graphics. The print data converted into raster data by the controller 26 is written in the RAM 23 and stored in the HDD 21 connected to the controller 26, and is sent to the engine control board 17 via the image signal bus 27 during printing. It is converted into write data (write DATA), sent to the write control board 30, and printed out.
[0059]
The controller 26 supplies power to all the units during normal operation (standby state) so as to be operable. However, unnecessary power consumption occurs after 10 seconds have elapsed after reading or printing of the document. In order to prevent this, a PSU activation signal to the power supply unit 31 is negated, and control is performed so as to automatically shift to a power saving state (low power mode, off mode). Note that the transition condition (transition time) when transitioning from the standby state to the power saving state, and the condition initialization time described later can be set by operating the operation unit (such as the operation unit control board 15) during normal operation. The setting contents are sent from the operation unit control board 15 to the controller 26 and stored in the RAM 23 in an updatable manner.
[0060]
The controller 26 is supplied with + 5VE power even in the power saving state, but the CPU of the controller 26 intermittently enters the power saving state based on the timer monitoring, so that the clock does not stop and power consumption is reduced. Driven by. The CPU is notified from the operation unit control board 15 of pressing of the key switch of the operation unit or touching the touch panel 34, or instruction input information from the power switch 12, the pressure plate open / close sensor 13, and the document set sensor 14 is received. When notified, the CPU of the controller 26 returns from the power saving state to the normal operation state.
[0061]
The fax control board 28 includes a modem, a communication control unit, a coding / decoding unit (DCR), and the like, and is connected to a public line via a network control unit (NCU) 29. Data received from the public line is converted into printable data by performing decryption processing or the like at the fax control board 28, and is temporarily written in the RAM 23 of the controller 26 via the image signal bus 27 and recorded in the HDD 21. The Then, during printing, it is sent to the engine control board 17 via the image signal bus 27, converted into writing data, sent to the writing control board 30, and printed out.
[0062]
On the other hand, the original image (read DATA) read by the reading sensor 16 of the scanner unit 2 is subjected to image processing by the engine control plate 17 and then temporarily sent from the bus bridge 18 via the image signal bus 27 to the controller 26. The data is written in the RAM 23 and stored in the HDD 21. Further, it is sent to the engine control board 17 via the image signal bus 27 at the time of printing, converted into writing data, sent to the writing control board 30, and printed out.
[0063]
The power supply unit (PSU AC drive) 31 is operable in the power saving state, and supplies power to each unit including the fixing heater 32 by a PSU activation signal from the controller 26. FIG. As shown, an AC input unit 42 that inputs power via a main power switch 41, a main converter 43 that is connected to the AC input unit 42 and supplies + 5VE power and + 5V power, and is connected to the AC input unit 42. And a sub-converter 44 that supplies + 12V power, -12V power, and + 24V power. The + 5VE power source is supplied to each unit operable in the power saving state. As described above, the LED / key switch 11, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, the backlight 36, the power switch 12, the pressure plate open / close sensor. 13, and supplied to the document set sensor 14.
[0064]
In the off mode state of the power saving state, energization of the fixing heater 32, the engine control plate 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control plate 30 and the like among the units shown in FIG. While being turned off (in the low power mode, the energization of the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30 and the like is not turned off). ROM 22, RAM 23, network interfaces 24 and 25, fax control board 28, NCU 29, power supply unit (PSU AC drive) 31, operation unit control board 15, power ON / OFF and LED / key switch 11 for displaying each key, Touch panel 34, LCD 35, backlight 36, user's The power like ON / OFF to power switch 12 for, ADF document set sensor 14 created operably powered, the image signal bus 27, such as a bus bridge 18, RAM 19 is allowed only energized. In the present embodiment, the LCD 35 with the backlight 36 is used, but this may be replaced with a reflective type or the operation unit may be configured without using the LCD.
[0065]
Next, control state transition in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
[0066]
In FIG. 5, the off mode transition time is changed from the standby state (S2) in which power is supplied to all units to the off mode (S6) in which power is supplied only to a predetermined unit and power supply to the fixing heater 32 is stopped. Or a transition condition from the low power mode (S5) in which power is supplied only to a predetermined unit to reduce the set temperature of the heat fixing device to the off mode (S6). The off-mode transition time is set to “t2” at the time of factory shipment. The low power mode transition time is a transition condition from the standby state (S2) to the low power mode (S5), and is set to “t3” at the time of factory shipment. Further, the condition initialization time (not shown) is the time (initial condition) until the copy condition set immediately before the transition to the standby state (S2) is cleared after the transition to the standby state (S2). In addition, “t1” is set at the time of factory shipment. Note that the values of t1 to t3 described above can be changed by a user operation (for example, key operation of the operation unit).
[0067]
Furthermore, the transition condition 1 is a transition condition from the low power mode (S5) or the off mode (S6) to the warm-up 3. The transition condition 1 includes (1) pressing the power switch 12, (2) pressing keys other than the start key 39, (3) touching the touch panel 34, and (4) opening / closing of the pressure plate or ADF (pressure plate open / close sensor). 13 ON / OFF), {circle around (5)} setting of originals on the ADF or removal of originals (ON / OFF of the original set sensor 14), or {circle around (6)} reception of print request data from the host computer (print data reception) and facsimile Print request such as data reception (call from public line) is included.
[0068]
When a main power switch (not shown) of the operation unit is turned on, the controller 26 turns on an LED (shown in FIG. 3) that indicates ON / OFF of the main power, and warms up 1 (S1). Migrate to Here, the sub-converter 44 of the power supply unit 31 supplies + 12V power, -12V power, and + 24V power, and the main converter 43 supplies + 5V power and + 5VE power by connecting the switch 45. When the warm-up is completed in this way, the process shifts to a standby state (S2), and the controller 26 starts counting up with a built-in timer (waiting time timer). This count-up is cleared when the key switch is pressed in the standby state (S2) or when the touch panel 34 is touched. Further, when the preset condition initialization time elapses and the copy condition is in the initial state and is in the off mode (S6), it is not counted.
[0069]
In this standby state (S2), when the waiting time timer value reaches the low power mode transition time (T = t3), the processing shifts to the low power mode (S5), and further in the low power mode (S5), the waiting time timer value is When the off-mode transition time (T = t2) is reached, the transition to the off-mode (S6) is made. Alternatively, when the waiting time timer value reaches the off mode transition time (T = t2) in the standby state (S2), the mode shifts to the off mode (S6). Here, when the controller 26 negates the PSU activation signal, the sub-converter 44 stops its operation. When the operation of the sub-converter 44 is stopped, the supply of + 12V power, -12V power, and + 24V power is stopped. When the controller 26 negates the PSU activation signal, the switch 45 is turned off, the supply of + 5V power from the main converter 43 is stopped, and only + 5VE power is supplied to a predetermined unit. Further, the controller 26 reduces the supply temperature to the fixing heater 32 by lowering the set temperature of the heat fixing device from 185 ° C. during standby to 130 ° C. in the low power mode (S 5). Note that the set temperature of the heat fixing device in the low power mode (S5) can be arbitrarily changed by a user operation.
[0070]
In the low power mode (S5) or the off mode (S6), when the transition condition 1 is satisfied by a user operation, the process proceeds to warm-up 3 (S7). Here, when the controller 26 asserts the PSU activation signal, the sub-converter 44 resumes supplying + 12V power, -12V power, and + 24V power, and the main converter 43 resumes + 5V power supply by connecting the switch 45. . Further, the controller 26 sets the set temperature of the heat fixing device to 185 ° C. at the time of standby, and displays on the LCD 35 of the operation unit, for example, “Warming up. Pressing the start key accepts copy start”. Display. The controller 26 displays the LED embedded in the start key 39 of the operation unit in red. This red display indicates that even when the start key 39 is pressed, the copy operation cannot be started immediately.
[0071]
When the warm-up operation is thus completed, the process shifts from the warm-up 3 (S7) to the standby state (S2).
[0072]
On the other hand, when the user presses the start key 39 in the low power mode (S5) or the off mode (S6), the process proceeds to warm-up 4 (S8). Here, the controller 26 sets the set temperature of the heat fixing device to 185 ° C. at the time of standby, and during the warm-up operation, the LCD 35 of the operation unit “warming up. Copying automatically starts after warm-up. And the LED embedded in the start key 39 blinks alternately in red / green. This blinking operation indicates that the start of copying has been accepted.
[0073]
When the warm-up operation is thus completed, the copy operation (S3) is immediately executed in the present embodiment, and when the series of copy operations is completed, the process shifts to a standby state (S2). In this way, the copy operation can be executed from the power saving state (off mode, low power mode) by one user operation (depressing the start key 39).
[0074]
Here, the power saving control method of this embodiment is started when the standby state (S2) shown in FIG. 5 is entered. As shown in FIG. 6, the controller 26 initializes the waiting time timer. (S101), the elapsed time counting by the waiting time timer is started. If any key other than the start key 39 is pressed or touched on the touch panel 34 (YES in s103), the necessary key processing is executed (s109).
[0075]
For example, when the start key 39 is pressed in the standby state (S2), the image is set with the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing). When the image forming operation is started, the process returns to the standby state (S2). In the standby state (S2), the touch panel 34, the numeric keypad 38, or the like is pressed, and setting of image forming conditions is instructed. Changes the image forming conditions in accordance with the instruction input.
[0076]
In addition, when a key operation other than the start key 39 is performed in the power saving state (low power mode (S5)), the low power mode is canceled and the warm-up operation (S7) is started, and the warm-up operation ends. Later, the process proceeds to the standby state (S2). On the other hand, when the start key 39 is pressed in the power saving state (low power mode (S5)), the low power mode is canceled and the warm-up operation (S8) is started. The image forming operation is started under the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing), and the standby state (S2) is entered after the end of the image forming operation. Return. During the warm-up operation, the fact is displayed on the LCD 35.
[0077]
Further, when a key operation other than the start key 39 is performed in the power saving state (off mode (S6)), the off mode is canceled to start the warm-up operation (S7), and wait after the warm-up operation ends. Transition to state (S2). On the other hand, when the start key 39 is pressed in the power saving state (off mode (S6)), the off mode is canceled and the warm-up operation (S8) is started. The image forming operation is started under the image forming conditions set at the time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing), and the process returns to the standby state (S2) after the image forming operation ends. During the warm-up operation, the fact is displayed on the LCD 35.
[0078]
If there is no key press other than the start key 39 or touch on the touch panel 34 (NO in s103), the controller 26 then determines whether the copy condition is in the initial state and the off mode ( If not, it is then determined whether the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed in the standby state (S2) (s105).
[0079]
As a result, when the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed, the set copy condition is cleared (s110). If the condition initialization time t1 has not elapsed, it is then determined whether or not the off-mode transition time t2 has elapsed in the standby state (S2) (s106). As a result, when the off-mode transition time t2 has elapsed, the routine proceeds to the off-mode (S6) (s111). If the off mode transition time t2 has not elapsed, it is then determined whether or not the low power mode transition time t3 has elapsed in the standby state (S2) (s107). As a result, when the low power mode transition time t3 has elapsed, the mode shifts to the low power mode (S5) (s112). If the low power mode transition time t3 has not elapsed in the standby state (S2), counting by the waiting time timer is continued (s108), and the processing of s103 to s112 is repeated.
[0080]
More specifically, for example, when the off mode transition time t2 = 10 seconds and the low power mode transition time t3 = 15 minutes are set, the key switch (LED / key switch 11) and the touch panel 34 are in the standby state (S2). If the state of not being operated continues for 10 seconds, the waiting time timer value T = 10 seconds, and the mode shifts to the off mode (S6). In addition, after shifting to off mode (S6), it does not transfer to low power mode (S5). Here, when the off mode transition time is changed to t2 = 60 minutes, for example, when 15 minutes have elapsed in the standby state (S2), the mode shifts to the low power mode (S6), and further the key switch in the low power mode (S5). 11 and the touch panel 34 are not operated for 45 minutes, the elapsed time in the standby state (S2) and the low power mode (S5) is 60 minutes or more, and the mode is shifted to the off mode (S6). Thus, depending on the set values of the off mode transition time t2 and the low power mode transition time t3, the low power mode may be substantially unnecessary. Further, when the condition initialization time t1 = 1 minute, as described above, 10 seconds have elapsed in the standby state (S2) and the mode shifts to the off mode (S6). When 50 seconds or more have elapsed, the standby state (S2) The elapsed time in the off mode (S6) is 1 minute or more, and the copy condition set before entering the standby state (S2) is cleared and the initial condition is restored.
[0081]
As described above, the multi-function copier of this embodiment has the operation unit (the operation unit control plate 15 and the LED / key switch 11 connected thereto, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, the backlight 36) whose display function is always ON. Etc.), and in the standby state (S2), the process shifts to the off mode (S6), etc., and the standby state (S2) is shifted until the preset condition initialization time t1 elapses from the standby state (S2). Since the copy condition set immediately before is held, even when the user shifts to the power saving state during the work of the user, the copy condition can be held and displayed until the condition initialization time t1 elapses.
[0082]
In addition to this embodiment, a recording medium (ROM or the like) storing a program for executing a control method such as the state transition shown in FIG. 5 or the power saving control shown in FIG. 6 is attached and executed by the controller 26, RAM 23, or the like. May be. In this case, the ROM can be easily moved and replaced. Further, for example, the program may be downloaded to the ROM 22 from an external device on the LAN via the interfaces (I / F) 24 and 25.
[0083]
[Second Embodiment]
FIG. 7 shows a power saving control method of the image forming apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In addition, since the whole structure of an apparatus is substantially the same as that of 1st Embodiment, while using FIGS. 1-4, the same code | symbol is provided to the same structure and description is abbreviate | omitted.
[0084]
The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in the standby state (corresponding to S2 in FIG. 5) in the off mode (corresponding to S6 in FIG. 5) and the like, and the condition initialization time set in advance from the standby state The operation unit is turned on until t1 elapses, and then the operation unit is turned off when the condition initialization time t1 elapses and the copy condition set immediately before shifting to the standby state is cleared. Is different. By this method, when the copy conditions are not maintained, power consumption due to the display function of the operation unit (by the touch panel 34, LCD 35, backlight 36, etc.) can be suppressed.
[0085]
In the present embodiment, in the off mode state of the power saving state, the energization to the fixing heater 32, the engine control plate 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control plate 30, and the like is turned off. In the low power mode, the energization to the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30 and the like is not turned off. On the other hand, the controller 26, the ROM 22, the RAM 23, the network interfaces 24 and 25, the fax control board 28, the NCU 29, the power supply unit (PSU AC drive) 31, the power switch 12, the document set sensor 14 of the ADF, and the like are operably powered. The image signal bus 27, bus bridge 18, RAM 19, and the like can only be energized. In particular, the operation unit control plate 15 and the LED / key switch 11 connected thereto, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, and the backlight 36 are provided. In the power saving state, + 5VE from the power supply unit 31 until the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed from the standby state (corresponding to S2 in FIG. 5) and the copy condition set immediately before the transition to the standby state is cleared. When power is supplied and the copy condition is cleared, the + 5VE power To stop the feeding. As described above, when the copy condition is cleared in the power saving state, (2) pressing of a key switch other than the start key 39 and (3) contact with the touch panel 34 are excluded from the transition condition 1 described above. It will be.
[0086]
The power saving control method of this embodiment is started when the standby state (S2) shown in FIG. 5 is entered. As shown in FIG. 7, the controller 26 initializes the waiting time timer, and then waits for this waiting time. The time timer starts counting (s101). If a key such as the start key 39 is pressed or the touch panel 34 is touched, necessary key processing is executed (s109).
[0087]
For example, when the start key 39 is pressed in the standby state, the image forming operation is performed under the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing). Start and return to the standby state after the end of the image forming operation. In the standby state, when the touch panel 34 or the numeric keypad 38 is pressed to instruct the setting of the image forming conditions, the image forming conditions are set according to the instruction input. To change. As described later, when copy condition initialization (s110) is performed and the operation unit is turned off (s201), the touch panel 34 is touched or the numeric keypad 38 is pressed while the operation unit is turned off. Even if it is not detected, the result of step s103 is NO, and the process proceeds to step s104.
[0088]
In addition, when a key operation other than the start key 39 is performed in a power saving state (low power mode (corresponding to S5 in FIG. 5)) before the copy condition initialization described later, the low power mode is canceled and warm An up operation (corresponding to S7 in FIG. 5) is started, and after the warm-up operation is completed, a transition is made to a standby state. On the other hand, when the start key 39 is pressed in the power saving state (low power mode), the low power mode is canceled and the warm-up operation (corresponding to S8 in FIG. 5) is started. After completion, the image forming operation is started under the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing), and the standby state is returned after the image forming operation is finished. . During the warm-up operation, the fact is displayed on the LCD 35.
[0089]
Further, when a key operation other than the start key 39 is performed in a power saving state (off mode (corresponding to S6 in FIG. 5)) before the copy condition initialization described later, the off mode is canceled and the warm-up operation is performed. (Corresponding to S7 in FIG. 5) is started, and after completion of the warm-up operation, a transition is made to a standby state. On the other hand, when the start key 39 is pressed in the power saving state (off mode), the off mode is canceled and the warm-up operation (corresponding to S8 in FIG. 5) is started. Then, the image forming operation is started under the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing), and the standby state is returned after the image forming operation is completed. During the warm-up operation, the fact is displayed on the LCD 35.
[0090]
If the start key 39 or the like is not pressed or the touch panel 34 is not touched and the copy condition is in the initial state and not in the off mode, it is then determined whether or not the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed in the standby state. (S104s, 105).
[0091]
As a result, when the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed, the set copy condition is cleared (s110), and the power supply to the operation unit is stopped (s201). Therefore, even if the touch panel 34 is touched in the state where the operation unit is OFF, it is not detected. As described above, the power supply to the operation unit is stopped because the power consumption required for the display function of the operation unit is larger than that of other components, and the initial condition is not particularly displayed to the user. This is because it is determined that there is no erroneous operation. In this case, the touch on the touch panel 34 and the depression of the LED / key SW11 (start key 39, clear / stop key 37, etc.) are the transition conditions from the power saving state to the warm-up operation (corresponding to the transition condition 1 in FIG. 5). However, the pressing of the power switch 12 becomes the transition condition, and the power saving state is restored.
[0092]
If the condition initialization time t1 has not elapsed (NO in s105), the copy condition set immediately before the transition to the standby state is held in a predetermined area of the RAM 23 according to the first embodiment. Here, when the off mode transition time t2 has elapsed in the standby state, transition to the off mode is performed (s106, s111). When the off mode transition time t2 has not elapsed in the standby state and the low power mode transition time t3 has elapsed, the mode shifts to the low power mode (s107, s112). If the low power mode transition time t3 has not elapsed in the standby state, the count up by the waiting time timer is continued (s108).
[0093]
Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and a recording medium (such as a ROM) storing a program for executing a control method such as the power saving control shown in FIG. In this case, the ROM can be easily moved and replaced. Further, for example, the program may be downloaded to the ROM 22 from an external device on the LAN via the interfaces (I / F) 24 and 25.
[0094]
[Third Embodiment]
FIG. 8 shows a configuration of a control unit of an image forming apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 9 shows a power saving control method thereof. Since the overall configuration of the apparatus is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, FIG. 1, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4 are used, and the same reference numerals are given to the same components and the description thereof is omitted.
[0095]
The present embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that a mode LED 40 that is connected to the controller 26 through the operation unit control board 15 is provided, and the mode LED 40 is driven by the above-described + 5VE power source. Until the preset condition initialization time t1 elapses from the standby state (corresponding to S2 in FIG. 5), the fact that the copy condition set immediately before the transition to the standby state is held is displayed. When the state is shifted to the off mode or the like, the operation unit is turned off. According to this method, it is possible to suppress power consumption by other display functions of the operation unit in the power saving state while displaying whether or not the copy condition is held by the mode LED 40.
[0096]
In FIG. 8, the mode LED 40 is configured to be supplied with the aforementioned + 5VE power from the power supply unit 31 and to obtain copy condition information from the controller 26 even in the power saving state. That is, the mode LED 40 displays whether or not the RAM 23 holds the copy condition set immediately before the user shifts to the standby state (corresponding to S2 in FIG. 5) by the key operation of the operation unit. For example, it may be turned on when the copy condition is held and turned off when the copy condition is not held. In this display, even when the user shifts to the power saving state during the work of the user, the user can confirm that the copy condition is held, and does not need to be reset after returning.
[0097]
In the off mode state of the power saving state, the energization to the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30, and the like is turned off. In the low power mode, the energization to the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30 and the like is not turned off. On the other hand, the controller 26, ROM 22, RAM 23, network interface 24, 25, fax control board 28, NCU 29, power supply unit (PSU AC drive) 31, mode LED 40, power switch 12, ADF document set sensor 14, etc. The image signal bus 27, bus bridge 18, RAM 19 and the like can only be energized. In particular, the operation unit control board 15 and the LED / key switch 11 connected thereto, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, the back The light 36 is supplied with + 5VE power from the power supply unit 31 until the off mode transition time t2 elapses in the standby state and shifts to the off mode. When the light 36 shifts to the off mode, the supply of the + 5VE power is stopped. The As described above, in the state of shifting to the off mode, from the above-described transition condition 1, pressing of the key switches other than (2) the start key 39 and (3) touching the touch panel 34 are excluded.
[0098]
The power saving control method of this embodiment is started when the standby state (S2) shown in FIG. 5 is entered. As shown in FIG. 9, the controller 26 initializes the waiting time timer and then waits for the waiting time. The time timer starts counting (s101, s102). Here, if a key such as the start key 39 is pressed or touched on the touch panel 34, necessary key processing is executed (s103, s109).
[0099]
For example, when the start key 39 is pressed in the standby state, the image forming operation is performed under the image forming conditions set at that time (the image forming conditions held before clearing and the initial conditions after clearing). Start and return to the standby state after the end of the image forming operation. In the standby state, when the touch panel 34 or the numeric keypad 38 is pressed to instruct the setting of the image forming conditions, the image forming conditions are set according to the instruction input. To change.
[0100]
As described later, when an off mode transition is made (s111) and the operation unit is turned off (s304), touching the touch panel 34 with the operation unit turned off or a key switch other than the power switch 12 is turned off. Even if the button is pressed, it is not detected, and the result of step s103 is NO, and the process proceeds to step s301.
[0101]
Further, even when a key operation is performed in a power saving state (low power mode (corresponding to S5 in FIG. 5)), the operation unit is in an OFF state, and the touch switch 34 is touched or a key switch other than the power switch 12 is used. Is not detected, the result of step s103 is NO, and the routine proceeds to step s301.
[0102]
Further, when the key such as the start key 39 is not pressed or the touch panel 34 is not touched in the standby state and the copy condition is set by the user immediately before shifting to the standby state and is stored in the RAM 23 as described above, the mode is set. The LED 40 is turned on (s103, s301, s302). Further, if the copy condition is not set / stored by the user immediately before shifting to the standby state and the copy condition is in the initial state and not in the off mode, whether or not the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed in the standby state. Is determined (s301, s104, s105). As a result, when the condition initialization time t1 has elapsed, the copy condition stored in the RAM 23 is cleared (s110), and the mode LED 40 is turned off (s303).
[0103]
Next, it is determined whether the off-mode transition time t2 has elapsed in the standby state (s106). As a result, when the off-mode transition time t2 has elapsed, the transition to the off-mode is performed and the operation unit is turned off (s111, s304). Here, the power supply to the LED / key switch 11, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, and the backlight 36 is stopped. This is because the power consumption required for the display function of the operation unit is large compared to other components, and whether or not the copy condition is set for the user can be displayed by the mode LED 40. In this case, the operation unit is in an OFF state, and the touch on the touch panel 34 and the depression of the LED / key switch 11 (start key 39, clear / stop key 37, etc.) are not detected and the transition condition is not met. The depression of the switch 12 is notified to the controller 26 and becomes the above-mentioned transition condition, and returns from the power saving state.
[0104]
Next, it is determined whether the low power mode transition time t3 has elapsed in the standby state (s107). As a result, when the low power mode transition time t3 has elapsed, the mode shifts to the low power mode (s112). If the low power mode transition time t3 has not elapsed in the standby state, the count up by the waiting time timer is continued (s108).
[0105]
Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and a recording medium (such as a ROM) storing a program for executing a control method such as the power saving control shown in FIG. In this case, the ROM can be easily moved and replaced. Further, for example, the program may be downloaded to the ROM 22 from an external device on the LAN via the interfaces (I / F) 24 and 25.
[0106]
[Fourth Embodiment]
FIG. 10 shows the configuration of the control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention. Since the overall configuration of the apparatus is substantially the same as that of the first embodiment, FIG. 1, FIG. 3, and FIG. 4 are used, and the same reference numerals are given to the same components and the description thereof is omitted.
[0107]
This embodiment is different from the first embodiment in that the first operation unit control board 51 (mainly for liquid crystal display) connected to the touch panel 34, LCD 35, and backlight 36 is connected to the LED / key switch 11. A power switch 12 connected to the controller 26 and a second operation unit control board 50 (mainly for key switch input) on which the mode LED 40 is arranged are provided, and the mode LED 40 is driven by the aforementioned + 5VE power source, The mode LED 40 displays that the copy condition set immediately before the transition to the standby state is held until the preset condition initialization time t1 elapses from the standby state (corresponding to S2 in FIG. 5). In the standby state, when the mode is switched to the off mode (corresponding to S6 in FIG. 5), the first operation unit control plate 51, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, the backer Stop the power supply to preparative 36, the second operating unit control board 50, LED / key switch 11, the power switch 12, the point to continue the power supply to the mode LED40 are different. With this configuration, the key switch input such as the start key 39 is permitted while displaying whether or not the copy condition is held by the mode LED 40, and the power consumption due to the liquid crystal panel display or the like in the power saving state is suppressed. Can do.
[0108]
In FIG. 10, the mode LED 40 is supplied with the above-described + 5VE power from the power supply unit 31 according to the third embodiment, obtains the copy condition presence / absence information from the controller 26 even in the power saving state, and the user shifts to the standby state. It is displayed whether or not the copy condition set immediately before is held in the RAM 23.
[0109]
Further, the operation unit control plate 51 is connected with the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, and the backlight 36, and realizes a liquid crystal display function until a transition to a power saving state such as an off mode. On the other hand, the LED / key switch 11 is connected to the operation unit control board 50, and + 5VE power is supplied in a power saving state, thereby realizing a key switch input function. In particular, when the copy of the copy condition is not displayed on the mode LED 40, the controller 26 permits the input of the start key 39 and uses this input as a fixing rising trigger.
[0110]
In the present embodiment, in the power saving state (off mode), the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30, the operation unit control board 51, the touch panel 34, the LCD 35, The power supply to the backlight 36 is turned off. In the low power mode, the energization to the fixing heater 32, the engine control board 17, the engine control board 17, the reading sensor 16, the engine drive board 20, the writing control board 30 and the like is not turned off. Therefore, “(3) touching the touch panel 34” is excluded from the transition condition from the power saving state to the warm-up operation (corresponding to the transition condition 1 in FIG. 5). On the other hand, controller 26, ROM 22, RAM 23, network interface 24, 25, fax control board 28, NCU 29, power supply unit (PSU AC drive) 31, operation unit control board 50, LED / key switch 11, mode LED 40, power switch 12, The ADF document set sensor 14 and the like are operably supplied with power, and the image signal bus 27, bus bridge 18, RAM 19 and the like can only be energized.
[0111]
In particular, the operation unit control board 50 and the LED / key switch 11 are driven by the + 5VE power supply from the power supply unit 31 even in the power saving state, permitting the input of the start key 39, and depressing the start key 39 from the power saving state. Control is made so as to be able to shift to warm-up 4 (corresponding to S8 in FIG. 5) and then to copy operation (corresponding to S3 in FIG. 5). Further, pressing other than the start key 39 becomes the transition condition 1 like the pressing of the power switch 12 and shifts from the power saving state to the warm-up 3 (corresponding to S7 in FIG. 5) and then returns to the standby state. I have to. This is because the power consumption of the display function by the touch panel 34, LCD 35, backlight 36, etc. is larger than the power consumption of other components (LED / key switch 11 etc.), and whether or not the copy condition is set for the user is a mode. It is because it can display with LED40.
[0112]
Note that the present invention is not limited to this embodiment, and the display function ON / OFF of the touch panel 34, LCD 35, backlight 36, etc. is switched based on the detection information of the human body detection sensor that can detect the approach of the user. The presence / absence of detection by the human body detection sensor may be set as the transition condition 1 similarly to the power switch 12. Alternatively, the detection information of the human body detection sensor may be used as a trigger for fixing start-up from the power saving state, instead of pressing the start key 39 in the fourth embodiment. With such a configuration, it is possible to efficiently return from the power saving state or start a copy operation in accordance with a user operation.
[0113]
In each of the above-described embodiments, the RAM 23 or the like constitutes the condition holding means, the controller 26 or the like constitutes the control means, and the operation unit control board 15, LED / key SW11, LCD 35, or the like constitutes the operation / display means. The power supply unit 31 or the like constitutes the power supply means, the controller 26 or the like constitutes the acceptance input means, the LED / key SW11, the LCD 35 or the like constitutes the return display means, and the mode LED 40 or the like constitutes the holding display. The operation unit control board 51, the LCD 35, etc. constitute the display means, the operation unit control board 15, the LED / key SW11, etc. constitute the instruction means, the operation unit control board 15, the touch panel 34, the LED / Key SW11 and the like constitute the setting means.
[0114]
【The invention's effect】
According to the first aspect of the present invention, the last image forming condition (copy condition or the like) set before the standby state is stored in the heat fixing type image forming apparatus capable of transition from the standby state to the power saving state and return. Therefore, when returning from the power saving state to the standby state, the image forming operation can be started immediately without resetting the image forming conditions, and the operability is improved.
[0115]
  Claim 1According to the invention described above, when the initialization time has elapsed since the last image forming operation, including the standby state and the power saving state, the last image forming condition is cleared and returned to the initial condition. Other users will not mistake the image forming conditions.
  According to the first aspect of the present invention, since the key input is valid and the image forming condition is displayed on the display unit even when the image forming condition is held, even in the power saving state. The user can visually check the display and confirm the current image forming conditions, and then can instruct a start instruction or image forming condition setting (change), thereby preventing miscopying. When the initialization time elapses from the standby state, the power supply to the operation unit is stopped. Therefore, when the image forming condition arbitrarily set by the user is not maintained in the power saving state, other than the start key switch (for example, The power consumption by the display function of the operation unit can be suppressed while maintaining the return function by pressing the power switch.
[0116]
  The present invention as a referenceAccordingly, since the display function of the operation unit is always in the ON state, at least the image forming conditions can be displayed in the power saving state, and an instruction other than the start of image formation and the start of image formation can be given.
[0117]
  Claim 2According to the invention described in the above,Power switchThe function is always on,In the power saving state before the initialization time elapses,Since an instruction to start image formation is accepted and input is possible, if there is an instruction to start image formation even in the power saving state, it is possible to automatically return to the standby state and execute the image forming operation.
[0118]
  Claim 3According to the invention described in the above, when an instruction to start image formation is received and input, and when returning from the power saving state and starting image formation under the image forming conditions, the fact that the state is returning from the power saving state is displayed. Therefore, the user does not mistake the warm-up operation during return as an erroneous operation.
[0119]
  The present invention as a referenceAccording to the above, when the power saving state is set, the display function of the operation unit is always turned on, and it is possible to accept and input other than the instruction to start image formation, so that, for example, image formation can be performed without pressing a special return key. It is possible to shift from the warm-up operation to the standby state by pressing a key switch for inputting conditions or touching the touch panel.
[0120]
  The present invention as a referenceAccording to the above, when an instruction other than an instruction to start image formation is received and input, and when returning from the power saving state to the standby state, it is displayed that the user is returning from the power saving state. There is no misunderstanding of misoperation.
[0122]
  Claim 4According to the invention described in the above, since only the holding of the image forming condition is displayed by the holding display means (mode LED or the like) regardless of the liquid crystal display of the operation unit, etc. Power consumption can be suppressed.
[0124]
  For reference, according to the present invention,In the power saving state, the image forming condition arbitrarily set by the user is held for a predetermined period, and the power display to the operation unit is stopped in the power saving state while displaying that fact on the holding display means. Although an image formation start instruction cannot be accepted by pressing, it is possible to return to a standby state by pressing any key other than the start key switch (for example, a power switch).
[0125]
  The present invention as a referenceThe operation unit is divided into a display function operation unit (first operation unit control board, etc.) such as a liquid crystal display and an instruction input function operation unit (second operation unit control board, etc.). Therefore, even if the power supply used for the display function is stopped in the power saving state, the instruction input function such as the start key can be utilized. Furthermore, since presence / absence of holding of the image forming condition is independently displayed by an LED or the like, the user can visually recognize whether or not the image forming condition before shifting to the standby state is held even in the power saving state.
[0126]
  Claim 5Since the transition time for shifting from the power saving state to the standby state and the initialization time are arbitrarily set, the setting according to the user's usage method and environment is possible.
[0127]
  Claim 6According to the invention described in the above, in the control method of the heat fixing type image forming apparatus capable of transitioning and returning from the standby state to the power saving state, an arbitrary image forming condition set before the standby state is maintained, and power saving is achieved. Since an image formation start instruction is received in the state and an image is formed under an arbitrary image forming condition, the operability for the user is improved.
[0128]
  Also,Claim 6According to the invention described in (4), after the initialization period set in advance from the standby state, the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared and returned to the initial condition, so that other users can mistake the image forming condition. Absent.
[0129]
  Also,Claim 6According to the invention described in the above, when the operation unit is turned on in the standby state, at least the image forming conditions are displayed, the image forming start can be instructed, and the operation is performed when the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared. Since the display function of the display unit is turned off, it is possible to save power by reducing the power source used for the display function.
[0130]
  Claim 7According to the invention described in (1), since it is displayed whether or not the image forming conditions set before the standby state are held, the user does not mistake the image forming conditions. In addition, the display function of the operation unit is turned off when shifting from the standby state to the power saving state such as the off mode, so the power used for the display function is reduced while maintaining the image forming conditions set before the standby state. To save power.
[0131]
  Claim 8According to the invention described inClaim 6Can be stored in a ROM or the like and executed using a controller, RAM, or the like. Here, the arbitrary image forming conditions set before the standby state are held, the image forming start instruction is received in the power saving state, and the image is formed under the arbitrary image forming conditions, so that the operability for the user is improved.
[0132]
  Claim 8According to the invention described inClaim 6A program for executing the control method described in (1) can be stored in a ROM or the like and executed using a controller, a RAM, or the like. Here, after the initialization period set in advance from the standby state, the last image forming condition before the standby state is cleared and returned to the initial condition, so that other users do not mistake the image forming condition.
[0133]
  Claim 8According to the invention described inClaim 6A program for executing the control method described in (1) can be stored in a ROM or the like and executed using a controller, a RAM, or the like. Here, when the operation unit is turned on in the standby state, at least the image formation conditions are displayed and the image formation start can be instructed. When the last image formation condition before the standby state is cleared, the display function of the operation unit, etc. Since the power is turned off, it is possible to save power by reducing the power source used for the display function.
[0134]
  Claim 9According to the invention described inClaim 7A program for executing the control method described in (1) can be stored in a ROM or the like and executed using a controller, a RAM, or the like. Here, since it is displayed whether or not the image forming conditions set before the standby state are held, the user does not mistake the image forming conditions. In addition, the display function of the operation unit is turned off when shifting from the standby state to the power saving state such as the off mode, so the power used for the display function is reduced while maintaining the image forming conditions set before the standby state. To save power.
[0135]
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus capable of holding the image forming conditions set by the user before the state transition, the control method thereof, and the recording medium in the power saving state. it can.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an overall configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of an operation unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of a power supply unit of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 5 is a power state transition diagram of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing power saving control of the image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing power saving control of an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing power saving control of an image forming apparatus according to a third embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit of an image forming apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
11 LED / key switch (SW)
12 Power switch (SW)
13 Pressure plate open / close sensor
14 Document set sensor
15, 50, 51 Operation unit control board
26 Controller
23 RAM
31 Power supply (PSU AC drive)
32 Fixing heater
34 Touch panel
35 LCD
36 Backlight
39 Start key
40 mode LED

Claims (9)

An image forming apparatus capable of transitioning from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped and returning from the power saving state to the standby state,
A condition holding means for holding the image forming conditions set immediately before shifting to the power saving state even after shifting to the power saving state;
A control unit that changes the held image forming condition to an initial image forming condition when a preset initialization time has elapsed after the final image forming operation has been completed under the image forming condition;
An operation / display unit that has a power switch for supplying power by a user operation, displays at least the image forming conditions, and instructs the start of image formation and the setting of image forming conditions;
Power supply means for supplying power to the operation / display means in a power saving state and stopping the power supply to the operation / display means except for the power switch when the initialization time has elapsed;
With
An image forming apparatus that returns from a power saving state to a standby state by operating the power switch . In the power saving state before the initialization time elapses, the control means returns from the power saving state by operating the start key in the operation / display means, and is held in the condition holding means after the return. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming is started under the image forming condition or the initial image forming condition . 3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a return display unit configured to display that the power saving state is being restored when the power saving state is restored . 4. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a holding display unit that displays whether or not the image forming condition is held in the condition holding unit until the initialization time elapses . The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 , further comprising a setting unit that arbitrarily sets a transition time for shifting from the standby state to a power saving state and the initialization time . This is a method for controlling an image forming apparatus capable of transitioning from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped and returning from the power saving state to the standby state. And
A condition holding step for holding the image forming conditions set immediately before the transition to the power saving state even after the transition to the power saving state;
A time measuring step for measuring the elapsed time from the standby state;
A power saving transition step for transitioning to a power saving state when a preset transition time elapses while maintaining the image forming conditions;
An image forming step of receiving an image formation start instruction in a power saving state, performing a return from the power saving state, and forming an image under the image forming conditions held after the return;
An initialization step of changing the held image forming condition to an initial image forming condition when a preset initialization time has elapsed from the standby state;
In the standby state, a display / instruction step for displaying at least image forming conditions and supplying power for instructing the start of image formation;
In the power saving state, by supplying the power, when the initialization time has elapsed, the display / indication stop step, except the power switch to stop the supply of the power supply for supplying the power supply by operating the user ,
Standby transition step for returning from the power saving state to the standby state by operating the power switch;
Method of controlling an image forming apparatus characterized by having a. Claims, characterized in that it comprises a holding display step of displaying said up initialization time has elapsed, and the image forming condition set to immediately before the transition to the power saving state is maintained even after the transition the power saving state Item 7. A method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to Item 6 . In the image forming apparatus, a program for switching from a standby state in which power is supplied to all units to a power saving state in which power supply to some units is stopped and returning from the power saving state to the standby state is recorded. A recording medium,
A condition holding step for holding the image forming conditions set immediately before the transition to the power saving state even after the transition to the power saving state;
A time measuring step for measuring the elapsed time from the standby state;
A power saving transition step for transitioning to a power saving state when a preset transition time elapses while maintaining the image forming conditions;
An image forming step of receiving an image formation start instruction in a power saving state, performing a return from the power saving state, and forming an image under the image forming conditions held after the return;
An initialization step of changing the held image forming condition to an initial image forming condition when a preset initialization time has elapsed from the standby state;
In the standby state, a display / instruction step for displaying at least image forming conditions and supplying power for instructing the start of image formation;
In the power saving state, when the power is supplied and the initialization time has elapsed, a display / instruction stop step for stopping the power supply except for a power switch for supplying the power by a user operation;
Standby transition step for returning from the power saving state to the standby state by operating the power switch;
A recording medium on which a program for executing the control method is recorded. Executing the control method including a holding display step for displaying that the image forming condition set immediately before the transition to the power saving state is retained after the transition to the power saving state until the initialization time elapses. 9. The recording medium according to claim 8 , wherein a program for recording is recorded.

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