JP4507678B2 - Processing equipment - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a processing apparatus such as a copying machine having a power saving function.

  Conventionally, a large number of copiers are connected to a single management device via a telephone line, etc., and the management device reports the number of copies from each copier, the number of jams (paper jams), troubles (failures), etc. A management system that regularly collects management data to be shown has appeared (for example, Patent Document 1). If this management system is used, the status of all copiers can be collectively managed by a single management apparatus, so that the management efficiency can be improved.

  Further, in the conventional copying machine, most of the modules (fixing heaters) in the copying machine are in a ready (standby) state when, for example, a copying operation is not performed for a certain time (for example, 20 minutes) due to a request for energy saving. Most of them have a power saving function for shifting to a power saving state in which power supply to the power supply is stopped to save power consumption. In such a copying machine, for example, power saving is released when a release key provided on the operation panel of the copying machine is pressed or when an incoming call is detected from an external device (trigger) (Patent Document 2). ).

By canceling power saving, the copier resumes power supply to each of the above modules, initializes the CPU, etc. (execution of start program, memory initialization, etc.), raises the temperature of the fixing device to the fixing temperature, etc. A predetermined warm-up process is performed to shift to a ready state where copying is possible.
JP-A-4-318731 JP 58-157251 A

However, in the above management system, when a copying machine having a power saving function is to be managed, there is a problem that the power saving effect is reduced.
In other words, the management data collection by the management device is usually performed at night when the copying operation is not performed so as not to affect the copying operation on the copying machine side. At times, most copiers are in a power saving state. Therefore, conventionally, when the copying machine detects an incoming call from the management device side in the power saving state at night, it performs a process of canceling the power saving and warming up, and transmitting the management data to the management device after the warming up, Thereafter, when the standby state continues for a certain period of time (for example, 20 minutes), the state again shifts to the power saving state.

  However, after the management data is transmitted, copying and the like are rarely performed at night. Therefore, to maintain the ready state until the transition to the power saving state after transmitting the management data, most of the processes such as heating the fixing device with the heater and keeping the fixing temperature consume wasteful power. As a result, the power saving effect is reduced. On the other hand, it is conceivable to shorten the above-mentioned fixed time, but there is a case where a shift to power saving occurs immediately, and each time the user has to wait until the copying is ready from the power saving cancellation and warm-up. Convenience becomes extremely bad.

  Such a problem does not occur only in a system in which the copying machine cancels power saving and transmits management data to the management apparatus upon detection of an incoming call from the management apparatus. For example, when a power saving copier is intended to release power saving for a purpose other than the purpose of copying, it is provided in the copier specifically for the purpose of service personnel confirming management data. If the power saving is canceled by pressing the dedicated button for the serviceman and the management data is displayed on the operation panel, the serviceman will need to wait until the copier goes into the power saving state before it enters the power saving state. If copying is not performed, useless power is consumed during the copying, and the same problem that the power saving effect is reduced may occur.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and in a processing apparatus such as a copying machine having a function of automatically shifting to a power saving state again after canceling power saving, it is easy to use and can save power. The object is to provide a possible processing device.

To achieve the above object, the present invention may have a power saving function, a processing device connected via the external device and the network, the power saving, either of the power-saving release factors different kinds one Depending on the type of release factor, the power saving transition time until the transition to the power saving state is resumed if a predetermined event does not occur, depending on the type of the release factor that occurred. a power-saving transition means for changing a receiving means for receiving a transmission request of the management data from the external device, comprising: an input accepting unit for accepting an operation input from a user, and a power-saving clearing of the plurality of types, the It is included that the transmission request has been received and that the operation input has been received, and the power saving transition means is configured to transfer the power saving when the generated release factor is the acceptance of the operation input. Between the first time, when generated clearing is the receiving of the transmission request, characterized by a second time shorter than the first time the power saving shift time.

Furthermore, job execution means is connected to an external device different from the external device via a network, receives a job execution request from the other external device, and executes the job based on the received execution request. provided, wherein the plurality of types of power saving clearing, the included that receives the job execution request, the power-saving transition means, when the release factors that occurred in reception of the job execution request, the power-saving The transition time is a third time longer than the second time.

  The job is a print job or a FAX reception job, and the job execution unit executes print output or FAX reception based on an execution request for the received print job or FAX reception job.

  In this way, the power saving transition time is changed according to the power saving cancellation factor, so the power saving transition time is uniform as in the conventional case, so it is highly probable that the processing device will not be used after the power saving cancellation. The time until the transition is made unnecessarily long, the power saving effect is not diminished, and the transition from the power saving cancellation to the power saving state is performed earlier, and it is possible to save power accordingly. Become. In addition, when there is a high probability that the processing apparatus is used after canceling power saving, there is an effect that it is easy to use because it does not immediately shift to power saving by taking the same transition time as before.

Embodiments of a management system including a processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.
(1) Overall Configuration FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a management system 1 according to the present embodiment.
As shown in the figure, the management system 1 includes a plurality of image processing apparatuses 10, 20... Arranged in a user's office or the like and a client terminal 60 via a network, here a LAN (Local Area Network) 50. Are connected to each other through the network, here the telephone network 40, so that data can be exchanged between the devices. It has become.

The image processing apparatus 10 includes: (i) a copy job that prints an image on paper based on image data obtained by reading an image of a set document; and (ii) a LAN from the client terminal 60
50, a print job for printing an image on paper based on print data for printing, for example, data in PDL (Page Description Language) format, etc., and (iii) facsimile transmission / reception with the FAX apparatus 70 This is a multi-function digital copier that executes various jobs such as a FAX job. Hereinafter, it is referred to as MFP (Multiple Function Peripheral).

  The MFP 10 has a power saving function, and counts and stores the number of copies, the number of occurrences of jam, etc., every time a copying operation is performed, each occurrence of a jam, and the like. The process of detecting the remaining amount of toner and other element data that affects the copying process (specifically, the charging potential of the photosensitive drum, the exposure amount of the photosensitive drum, etc.) as data indicating the current state of the apparatus. It has a function of executing and transmitting data including the count and detection data as management data to the management apparatus 30 when a transmission request is received from the management apparatus 30. This configuration is the same for the other MFPs 20.

On the other hand, the management device 30 comprises a personal computer, requests the MFPs 10, 20,... To transmit management data, and stores the management data that is sent. The administrator can check the status of each copying machine, the maintenance time, etc. by referring to the management data.
The client terminal 60 is formed of a personal computer, and is installed with an OS (Operating System), application software for creating a document, a printer driver for causing the MFP 10 to print the created document, and the like. Upon receiving a print execution instruction from the user, the client terminal 60 transmits print data for printing to the MFP 10 or the like via the LAN 50 to execute a print job.

The FAX apparatus 70 is a known G3 facsimile apparatus.
Hereinafter, the configurations and processing contents of the MFP and the management apparatus will be described in detail. Since the MFPs 10, 20,... Are the same, the configuration of the MFP 10 will be described here, and the description of the other components will be omitted.
(2) Configuration of MFP 10 FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the MFP 10.

As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP 10 includes a copying machine main body 11 and a modem 12.
The copier body 11 includes, as main components, a document reading unit 111, a printer unit 112, an operation unit 113, a control unit 114, a PU (power unit: power supply device) 115, various sensors 116, a reset SW (switch) 117, and a FAX. A board 118 is provided.
The document reading unit 111 is a known document reading device that reads an image of a set document.

  The printer unit 112 is a known printing apparatus that prints on a sheet based on the read image data of the original, the print data included in the print job from the client terminal 60, and the FAX data when the FAX is received. Specifically, a photosensitive drum, a print head, a developing device, a fixing device, and the like are provided. Based on an instruction from the CPU 101, a laser beam is emitted from the print head, and the charged photosensitive drum is exposed to electrostatic latent. Create a statue. The formed electrostatic latent image is developed with toner of a developing unit to form a toner image, which is transferred onto a sheet to be conveyed, and the toner image transferred onto the sheet is fixed to a fixing unit having a heater Heat and press to fix on paper.

  The operation unit 113 includes a numeric keypad 131 that accepts input from the user such as the number of copies (copy), a destination number for FAX transmission, a copy start key 132 that accepts an instruction to start copying, and a release key 133 that accepts an instruction to cancel power saving. A mode switching key (not shown) for switching modes such as a copy mode and a FAX mode is provided. In this sense, the operation unit 113 functions as an input receiving unit that receives an operation input from the user.

When the numeric keypad 131, copy start key 132, or the like is pressed, the operation unit 113 notifies the CPU 101 of the control unit 114 to that effect. Further, when the release key 133 is pressed, the PU 115 is notified to that effect. A display unit (not shown) for displaying the number of copies, various messages, and the like is also provided.
The various sensors 116 include a jam detection sensor that detects whether or not a jam occurs on the conveyed paper, a potential sensor that detects a charging potential of the photosensitive drum, a photoelectric sensor that detects an exposure amount of the photosensitive drum by laser light, and a development A toner detection sensor that detects the remaining amount of toner in the container is included, and data detected by each sensor is sent to the control unit 114.

The reset SW 117 is a switch that is used to restore the copy-ready state after the user cancels the cause after a trouble such as a jam occurs, for example, in the case of a jam, the paper jammed in the transport path is removed. When pressed by the user, this is notified to the control unit 114.
The FAX board 118 is a known one that performs FAX transmission / reception with the FAX apparatus 60 via the telephone line network 40, and includes a FAX modem. For example, when an incoming call is detected, an RI (Ring Indicator) signal is sent to the CPU 101 and the PU 115. At the same time, the communication processing based on FAX transmission control is started and FAX reception is executed. In the present embodiment, two lines, a line for FAX communication via the FAX board 118 and a line for data communication with the management apparatus 30 via the modem 12, are provided. It is an example when it is.

The control unit 114 includes a CPU 101, a ROM 102, a RAM 103, an NVRAM 104, a clock IC 105, a print controller 106, and a serial interface 107 as main components.
The ROM 102 stores a program related to a document reading operation in the document reading unit 111 and a printing operation in the printer unit 112, a program related to communication processing with an external device such as the management device 30 and the FAX device 70, and the like.

The watch IC 105 is a known IC for measuring time, and is always supplied with power by a backup battery (not shown).
The CPU 101 reads a necessary program from the ROM 102 and controls the reading operation, the printing operation, and the like in a unified manner while taking a timing to execute a smooth copying, printing, FAX transmission / reception operation. Further, communication processing with the management apparatus 30 is executed. Further, trouble detection such as jamming, toner remaining amount detection, and the like are performed based on detection data from various sensors 116. In addition, various data such as the number of copies and jam count are stored in the NVRAM 104.

  If a predetermined event such as an input operation, a copying operation, or a communication process does not occur for a certain period of time, the power supply to each module including the self (CPU 101) such as the document reading unit 111 and the printer unit 112 is cut off. Then, a power saving process for automatically shifting to a power saving mode that saves power consumption during standby is executed. Specifically, the clock IC 105 is used to measure the duration (standby time) in a state where no predetermined event such as an input operation occurs, and this is set as the transition time to the power saving state. Is reached, the PU 115 is instructed to shut off the power supply (instruct to shift to power saving).

  In the present embodiment, two times T1 and T2 are prepared as the power saving transition time, and the power saving is canceled due to the generation of any of the power saving cancellation factors (described later) during power saving. Depending on whether the power saving transition time is set to either T1 or T2, and when a predetermined event does not occur within the set time, the power saving state is entered again. The data indicating the values of T1 and T2 is stored in advance in the ROM 102, and any data of T1 and T2 is read by the CPU 101 when the power saving transition time is set. Here, for example, it is assumed that data indicating that T1 is “20 (minutes)” and T2 is “1 (minutes)” is stored. The T1 and T2 values are configured such that, for example, the user can set arbitrary values from the operation unit 113 or the like, and the data of the set values is stored in the NVRAM 104 and read as necessary. You can also

The RAM 103 is a volatile memory and serves as a work area when the CPU 101 executes a program.
The NVRAM 104 is a non-volatile memory, and stores data such as the telephone number of the management apparatus 30, the number of copies currently made, and the number of jams. Further, the NVRAM 104 is provided with a power saving transition time storage area 1041 for storing data indicating a power saving transition time, and a power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042 for storing data indicating a power saving cancellation factor. Each data indicating the power saving transition time and the power saving cancellation factor is written to each storage area by the CPU 101 or the PU 115. This process will be described later.

  The print controller 106 is a device connected to the client terminal 60 via the LAN 50, accepts a print job from the client terminal 60, sends print conditions such as print data and the number of prints to the CPU 101, and the printer unit 112 performs a print operation. Let it run. In addition, a print job acceptance signal indicating that the print job has been accepted is sent to the CPU 101 and the PU 115.

  The serial interface 107 is an interface for connecting the CPU 101 and the modem 12, receives data transmitted from the management device 30 via the modem 12, and sends the data to the CPU 101. Data from the CPU 101 is transmitted to the management apparatus 30 via the modem 12. Further, when the RI signal from the modem 12 is received as an incoming call detection signal, it is sent to the CPU 101 and the PU 115.

The PU 115 is connected to an external commercial power source (not shown), and the power from the commercial power source is necessary for the operation of each module (the document reading unit 111, the printer unit 112, the operation unit 113, the control unit 114, etc.) of the copier body 11. It is converted into a new power and supplied to each module.
Further, during the power saving mode, a part of the operation unit 113 (a circuit block part for accepting the pressing of the release key 113), the FAX board 118, the print controller 106, and other modules other than the serial interface 107 (the CPU 101, the printer unit 112). Etc.) is stopped.

  Further, when any one of the print job reception signal from the print controller 106, the RI signal from the serial interface 107, the release key pressing signal from the operation unit 113, and the RI signal from the FAX board 118 is received during the power saving mode, the CPU 101 or the like. Restart the power supply to each module (cancel power saving). In this sense, the print job reception signal and the RI signal also have a signal function for instructing power saving cancellation.

  The modem 12 is a known device that connects the control unit 114 to the management device 30 via the telephone line network 40. When there is an incoming call from the management device 30, the modem 12 accepts this as a management data transmission request. The RI signal is output to the serial interface 107. In this sense, the modem 12 functions as a receiving unit that receives a management data transmission request from the management device 30.

  Here, the copying machine main body 11 and the modem 12 are separately connected to an external commercial power source and supplied with electric power, so that the modem 12 is in a state where the copying machine main body 11 is in the power saving mode. Even incoming calls can be detected. In the present embodiment, the copying machine main body 11 and the modem 12 are separate from each other, but of course, the MFP may be configured by being incorporated in the copying machine main body 11.

(3) Configuration of Management Device 30 FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the management device 30.
As shown in the figure, the management device 30 includes a PC main body 31, a display 32, a keyboard 33 and a modem 34.
The PC main body 31 includes a serial interface (I / F unit) 311, a CPU 312, a ROM 313, a display control unit 314 that performs display control of the display 32, an input control unit 315 that receives a signal input from the keyboard 33, and main components. A storage unit 316 is provided.

The ROM 313 stores a management program for managing various information such as the operation status of the MFPs 10, 20... And a maintenance time, a data collection program for collecting management data from the MFP 10, and the like.
The CPU 312 reads a management program, a data collection program, and the like from the ROM 313 and executes management processing and management data collection processing. The management data collection process is a process for calling each MFP and obtaining management data from the MFP at a data collection time predetermined for the MFP.

  The storage unit 316 is a non-volatile memory such as a hard disk, and stores management data collected from each MFP. Further, the storage unit 316 is provided with a destination table (not shown) for managing the collection time for collecting management data from each MFP for the MFPs 10, 20. The modem 34 has the same function as the modem 12.

(4) Processing Contents of Copy Machine Main Body (4-1) Processing Contents of PU 115 FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the processing contents executed in the PU 115.
As shown in the figure, when the PU 115 receives a power saving transition instruction from the CPU 101 (“YES” in step S1), the PU 115 depresses the release key 133 of the print controller 106, the serial interface 107, the FAX board 118, and the operation panel 113. The power supply to the modules (CPU 101, document reading unit 111, printer unit 112, etc.) excluding the circuit block for detection is stopped (step S2). As a result, the copying machine main body 11 shifts to the power saving mode.

When any of the print job reception signal from the print controller 106, the serial interface 107, the RI signal from the FAX board 118, and the release key pressing signal from the operation unit 113 is received during power saving, an instruction to cancel power saving is issued. ("YES" in step S3), the process proceeds to step S4.
When the received signal is an RI signal from the serial interface 107 (“YES” in step S 4), a value indicating that the power saving cancellation factor is “incoming from the management device”, here “1” is set to the NVRAM 104. Is written (overwritten. The same applies hereinafter) (step S5), and power supply to all modules to the CPU 101 and the like that have stopped power supply is resumed (step S6). As a result, the power saving of the copying machine main body 11 is canceled.

When the received signal is a press signal (“NO” in step S4, “YES” in step S7), a value indicating that the power saving cancellation factor is “pressing the release key of the operation unit”, here “ 2 ”is written in the power saving release factor storage area 1042 (step S8), and the process proceeds to step S6.
If the received signal is a print job acceptance signal (“NO” in step S7, “YES” in step S9), a value indicating that the power saving cancellation factor is “accept print job”, here “3” is written in the power saving release factor storage area 1042 (step S10), and the process proceeds to step S6.

  Further, if the received signal is not a print job acceptance signal, that is, an RI signal from the FAX board 118 (“NO” in step S9), a value indicating that the power saving cancellation factor is “FAX reception”, here Then, “4” is written in the power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042 (step S11), and the process proceeds to step S6. In this sense, it can be said that the PU 115 functions as a power saving canceling unit that cancels power saving due to generation of any one power saving canceling factor when executing the processes of steps S3 to S11.

If it is determined that there is no power saving transition instruction (“NO” in step S1), the process proceeds to step S6 to continue power supply, and if it is determined that there is no power saving cancellation instruction (“NO” in step S3), step S2 The power supply is stopped as it is.
(4-2) Processing Contents of the CPU 101 of the Control Unit 114 FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of the main routine executed by the CPU 101.

  As shown in the figure, when power supply from the PU 115 is started, the CPU 101 performs initial setting and warm-up (step S21). This initial setting operation is an initialization process for the CPU 101, the RAM 103 and other internal memories (not shown) and various parameters. In addition, warm-up detects the above element data and device status (whether a jam has occurred, the amount of toner remaining, etc.) in parallel with the process of supplying power to the heater of the fixing device and raising the temperature of the fixing device to a predetermined fixing temperature. Thus, processing for generating management data is executed.

When the warm-up is completed, it is determined whether or not the power saving cancellation factor is an incoming call from the management device (step S22). This determination is made by referring to the current value written in the power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042 of the NVRAM 104.
When the value written in the power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042 is “1”, that is, the power saving cancellation factor is “incoming from the management device” (“YES” in step S22), the power saving transition time is “T2 ( Here, the value “1 minute” ”is read from the ROM 102 and set. Specifically, the value is written (overwritten) in the power saving transition time storage area 1041 (step S23), and the process proceeds to step S25.

  On the other hand, the values written in the power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042 are “2” to “5” other than “1” (for this “5”, the power saving cancellation factor is due to “power on”. In this case, the power-saving canceling factor is “pressing the cancel key”, “accepting a print job”, “fax reception”, “power-on”. ”(“ NO ”in step S22), the value“ T1 (20 minutes here) ”is read from the ROM 102 and set as the power saving transition time. Specifically, the power saving transition time is stored. The area 1041 is written (overwritten) (step S24), and the process proceeds to step S25. In this sense, it can be said that the CPU 101 functions as a power saving transition unit that changes the power saving transition time according to the generated power saving cancellation factor when executing the processes of steps S22 to S24.

  In step S25, it is determined whether or not the warm-up is completed. If it is determined that the warm-up is completed (“YES” in step S25), if the power saving cancellation factor is “incoming from the management device”, the generated management is performed. Data is transmitted (step S26). Specifically, when a predetermined command for authenticating whether or not the transmission source is the management device 30 is transmitted to the transmission source via the modem 12, and it is authenticated that the transmission source is the management device 30. Management data is transmitted.

On the other hand, when the power saving cancellation factor is “accept print job” or “FAX reception”, the printer unit 112 starts a print operation based on the print job and FAX data (step S27). If the power saving cancellation factor is “pressing the release key” or “powering on”, the process proceeds to step S28.
In step S 28, a value indicating that the power saving cancellation factor is “power on”, in this case “5”, is written in the power saving cancellation factor storage area 1042.

When all operations such as management data transmission and print output in steps S26 and S27 are completed, a standby state is entered (step S29), the timer IC 105 starts counting the timer T (step S30), and a predetermined event is entered. It is determined whether or not the occurrence of (step S31).
As the predetermined event, (i) reception of key input of the operation unit 113 by the user, (ii) reception of an external device, specifically, reception of a print job from the client terminal 60, the FAX device 70, etc., FAX reception (Iii) Various operations such as reading and printing in copying, FAX transmission / reception, and the like are included.

If it is determined that any one event has occurred (“YES” in step S31), processing corresponding to the event (hereinafter referred to as “event processing”) is executed (step S32).
FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the contents of the event processing subroutine.
As shown in the figure, when it is determined that the generated event is acceptance of key input (“YES” in step S41), an acceptance process is executed (step S42), and the process returns to the main routine. This accepting process accepts a key input on the operation unit 113 from the user, and in the case of a process corresponding to the accepted content, for example, pressing of the numeric keypad 131 for inputting the number of copies, When the number is displayed on the display unit as a copy number display or when the copy start key 132 is pressed, a process of starting a copy operation is executed.

On the other hand, if it is determined that the key input is not accepted (“NO” in step S41), the incoming process is executed assuming that the generated event is an incoming call from the external device (step S43), and the process returns to the main routine.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the contents of a subroutine for incoming call processing. Note that this incoming call process is a process in the non-power-saving mode.

As shown in the figure, it is determined whether or not the generated event is due to FAX reception (step S51). This determination is made based on whether or not the RI signal is received from the FAX board 118.
If it is determined that the RI signal has been received from the FAX board 118 ("YES" in step S51), the FAX data received by the FAX board 118 is sent to the printer unit 112 for output based on the FAX data. (FAX output) is executed (step S52). On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not FAX reception (“NO” in step S51), the process proceeds to step S53.

In step S53, it is determined whether the print job is accepted. This determination is made based on whether a print job acceptance signal is received from the print controller 106.
If it is determined that a print job has been received (“YES” in step S53), the received print data and the like are sent to the printer unit 112 to execute print output (step S54). On the other hand, if it is determined that the print job is not accepted ("NO" in step S53), the process proceeds to step S55.

  In step S55, it is determined whether a management data transmission request from the management apparatus 30 has been received. Although the management data transmission request by the management device 30 is mainly performed at night, it may be performed when a situation occurs in which it is urgent to collect management data during the day. This is performed in the emergency (non-power-saving mode). The determination of whether or not there is reception is made based on whether or not an RI signal has been received from the serial interface 107.

  If it is determined that the management data transmission request has been received (“YES” in step S55), the management data generation process is executed, and the generated management data is transmitted to the management apparatus 30 (step S56). This management data generation process is the same as the process performed in the warm-up in step S21. The transmission process is the same as the transmission process in step S26.

Returning to FIG. 5, after the event process (step S32) is completed, the timer T of the clock IC 105 is stopped, the count value is reset (step S33), and the process returns to step S29.
In step S29, when the operation such as the printing operation in the event processing in step S32 is completed, the standby state is entered again. In step S30, the timer T is operated again, and in step S31, it is determined whether or not an event has occurred.

If no event has occurred (“NO” in step S31), it is determined whether the standby time is equal to or longer than the power saving transition time (step S34). Here, the standby time is the current count value of the timer T, and the power saving transition time is the time T1 or T2 set in step S23 or S24.
If the standby time is not greater than the power saving transition time, that is, if the standby time has not reached the power saving transition time (“NO” in step S34), the process returns to step S31.

If any event occurs (“YES” in step S31), the processes of steps S32, S33, S29, S30, and S31 are performed.
On the other hand, if no event occurs, the process of “NO” in step S31 and “NO” in S34 are repeated, and the count value of the timer T rises during that time, so that standby time = power saving transition time ( "YES" in step S34), the process proceeds to step S35.

In step S35, in order to shift to the power saving mode, a power saving transition instruction is sent to the PU 115 (instruction to cut off power supply), and the process ends. As a result, the power supply from the PU 115 is stopped, and the CPU 101 or the like is not operated at all because no power is supplied during the power saving mode.
Note that the CPU 101 executes a trouble detection process for detecting a trouble such as a jam at all times during power supply in parallel with the main routine shown in FIG. This trouble detection process is performed based on the detection results of the various sensors 116.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the contents of the trouble detection process.
As shown in the figure, when a trouble is detected ("YES" in step S61), a message to that effect is displayed (step S62) and all operations such as a printing operation are stopped (step S63).
When the user removes the jammed paper and the reset SW 117 is pressed (“YES” in step S64), a cancel process such as erasure of the trouble display on the operation unit 113 is performed (step S65). An initial setting transition process for starting the process of the main routine of FIG. 5 from the initial setting / warm-up process of step S21 is executed (step S66), and the process returns to step S61.

  As a result, after the trouble is released, the main routine starts from the initial initial setting (step S21). In this case, the power saving transition time is set to “Power-on” in step S28 before the trouble is detected. “T1 (20 minutes)” is applied (“NO” in step S22, S24), and “T2 (1 minute)” is applied to immediately enter the power saving state. It will not be migrated and will be kind to the user.

(5) Processing Contents of Management Device 30 FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing processing details executed in the management device 30.
As shown in the figure, the management device 30 executes an environment setting process (step S71), a management data collection process (step S72), and other processes (step S73).
The environment setting process in step S71 is a process that is first executed when the power is turned on, and mainly resets and initializes the CPU 312, the modem 34, and the like.

  In the management data collection process in step S72, for each MFP, a call is made to the MFP at a predetermined time for the MFP (a request for transmission of management data is made), and power saving is canceled in the MFP (steps S3 to S3). S6) is a process of receiving management data (step S26) generated through initial setting and warm-up (step S21) and transmitted from the MFP and storing it in a predetermined storage area in the storage unit 316. .

Other processing in step S73 is processing for displaying the collected management data on the display 32, and the like.
(6) Overall Process of Management System 1 FIG. 10 is a diagram for explaining the contents of the overall process in the management system 1. The figure shows two examples of a case where a user makes a copy using the MFP 10 in the daytime (P1 to P6) and a case where management data is transmitted from the MFP 10 to the management apparatus 30 at night (P7 to P14). It is shown.

  As shown in the figure, in the power saving state, when the user presses the release key 133 as one of the power saving cancellation factors (P1), the MFP 10 releases the power saving (P2), and starts the initial setting and warm-up. (P3), and the power saving transition time is set to T1 (20 minutes) (P4). This P1 corresponds to steps S3, S7, and S8, P2 corresponds to S6, P3 corresponds to S21, and P4 corresponds to S24.

  When the copy start key 132 is pressed after the warm-up is completed, the MFP 10 performs a copy operation (P5). When the copying operation ends and the standby state in which no predetermined event such as a button press occurs continues for T1 (20 minutes), the state shifts to the power saving state (P6). P5 corresponds to steps S31 and S32, and P6 corresponds to S33, S29, S30, S31, S34, and S35.

When time elapses and a predetermined time as management data collection time at night comes, for example, 22:00, the management device 30 issues a call for instructing the MFP 10 in the power saving state to cancel power saving. (P7). This P7 corresponds to step S72 described above.
When the MFP 10 detects an incoming call for a call from the management apparatus as one of the power saving cancellation factors in the power saving state (P8), the MFP 10 cancels the power saving (P9), starts initial setting and warm-up (P10), and saves power. The transition time is set to T2 (1 minute) (P11). P8 corresponds to steps S3 to S5, P9 corresponds to S6, P10 corresponds to S21, and P11 corresponds to S23.

After the warm-up is completed, the MFP 10 transmits the generated management data (P12). This P12 corresponds to step S26.
Upon receiving the management data from the MFP 10, the management device 30 stores it in the storage unit 316 (acquisition of management data) (P13). This P13 corresponds to step S72.

On the other hand, after the management data is transmitted, the MFP 10 shifts to a power saving state when a standby state in which no predetermined event such as a button press occurs continues for T2 (1 minute) (P14). This P14 corresponds to steps S29, S30, S31, S34, and S35. Similar processing is performed for other MFPs 20 and the like.
As described above, in this embodiment, the power saving transition time is changed according to the power saving cancellation factor. For example, when the MFP detects an incoming call due to a management data transmission request from the management device 30 during power saving at night. Is set to T2 (1 minute), which is much shorter than the normal power saving transition time T1 (20 minutes) until the transition to power saving again after canceling power saving, so that the state immediately shifts to the power saving state after transmitting the management data. become.

  Therefore, since the power saving transition time is uniform as in the prior art, the power to the heater or the like of the fixing device is maintained for a long time (20 minutes) even in a situation where the user hardly copies after the management data transmission. The supply will not be continued and the power saving effect can be enhanced. If it is estimated that the frequency of use of the copying machine is high, such as when the release button 133 is pressed, the power saving transition time is set to the same T1 (20 minutes) as before, so the power saving transition occurs immediately and the user When you try to copy it, you are saving electricity, and you don't have to wait from power saving cancellation until the end of warm-up.

Note that the power saving transition times T1 and T2 are not limited to the above values. T1> T2 may be satisfied, and for T2, for example, a shorter value (for example, several seconds, 0 seconds, etc.) may be set so as to shift to power saving immediately after transmission of management data.
Further, a different power saving transition time may be set for each release factor. For example, when the canceling factor is due to the pressing of the canceling button 133, 20 minutes are set, when the request for transmitting management data is 1 minute, when receiving a print job, 30 minutes are set. In the case of a print job, the user who requested the print job does not always come to the MFP to get the printed matter. Therefore, by setting the power saving transition time longer than the usual 20 minutes, for example, a print job request Even after 25 minutes from the date of printing, it is possible to make another copy of the original immediately on the spot. Note that the power saving effect decreases as the power saving transition time becomes longer, and therefore the transition time is determined in consideration of user convenience and the power saving effect.

Further, the power saving cancellation factor is not limited to the above, and a plurality of events that trigger the power saving cancellation can be used as the power saving cancellation factor. Of the plurality of factors, for those that are estimated to be less frequently used by the user after the power saving is canceled, the power saving transition time may be set to T2 when the factor occurs.
Further, the predetermined event is not limited to the above-described event, and any event that can be shifted to the power saving state again if a certain operation does not occur in the power saving cancellation state (non-power saving mode) may be used.

  The present invention is not limited to the image processing apparatus (MFP), and may be a method related to power saving transition again after power saving is canceled in the MFP. Furthermore, the method may be a program executed by a computer. The program according to the present invention includes a magnetic disk such as a magnetic tape and a flexible disk, an optical recording medium such as DVD, CD-ROM, CD-R, MO, and PD, and a flash memory system such as Smart Media (registered trademark). It can be recorded on various computer-readable recording media such as a recording medium, and may be produced, transferred, etc. in the form of the recording medium, and various wired and wireless types including the Internet in the form of a program. In some cases, the data is transmitted and supplied via a network, broadcast, telecommunication line, satellite communication, or the like.

  Further, the program according to the present invention does not have to include all modules for causing the computer to execute the processing described above. For example, a separate information process such as a communication program or a program included in an operating system (OS) is performed. You may make it make a computer perform each process of this invention using the various general purpose programs which can be installed in an apparatus. Accordingly, it is not always necessary to record all the modules on the recording medium of the present invention, and it is not always necessary to transmit all the modules. Further, there are cases where predetermined processing can be executed using dedicated hardware.

(7) Modifications The present invention has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and the following modifications can be considered.
(7-1) In the above embodiment, the measurement of the time until the transition to power saving is performed after the power saving is canceled is performed from the time of transition to the standby state (step S30). As long as it can be shifted to the power saving state if it does not occur, the measurement start time is not particularly limited. For example, measurement starts or waits at any time from the power saving cancellation to the standby state. A predetermined time may elapse after entering the state, and an optimal time can be determined in advance from experiments in consideration of both power saving and ease of use.

  (7-2) In the above embodiment, the management data is transmitted after the warm-up. However, for example, it may be configured to transmit the management data immediately after the generation of the management data even during the warm-up. In addition, the management data may be saved in NVRAM or the like before the power saving transition, and the saved management data may be read and transmitted and the warm-up may be started after the power saving is canceled.

  (7-3) The MFP according to the above embodiment has a configuration in which the power supply to the CPU 101 is stopped during power saving, and thus the PU 115 determines whether or not to cancel power saving, but is limited to this. There is nothing. For example, when the CPU receives an RI signal, a print job acceptance signal, and a release key press signal, the CPU continues to be energized even during power saving. Can be configured to instruct the PU to stop the power supply to each unit when a predetermined event does not occur in the standby state.

Further, it goes without saying that the modules whose power supply is stopped by power saving are not limited to those described above, and power supply can be stopped only for heaters, for example. Furthermore, it is possible to save power by making the supply amount smaller than that in the non-power saving mode without completely stopping the power supply.
(7-4) In the above embodiment, the processing apparatus having the power saving function is a copying machine, but the present invention is not limited to the copying machine, and has any one of a plurality of power saving cancellation factors having a power saving function. It can also be applied to image processing devices such as scanners, printers, FAX devices, etc. that have the function of shifting to the power saving state again when power saving is canceled due to the occurrence of a factor and a predetermined event does not occur after power saving is canceled. Is possible.

In addition, when it is estimated that the frequency of use of the device is low after canceling power saving, it is sufficient to configure the time until the transition to power saving again to be shorter than the normal transition time. It is not limited to the apparatus which performs.
For example, a copy machine is provided with a button dedicated to an administrator or service person to generate management data and display the contents on the operation panel. During power saving, the service person directly presses the button to save power. When the button is pressed (when the dedicated button is pressed as the power-saving canceling factor), the management data generated and displayed is checked and the contents are displayed. A configuration that shortens the transition time can be considered. It is presumed that the serviceman is not for the purpose of copying, so it is estimated that the copying operation is rarely executed after the power saving is canceled and before the power saving state is entered again. It is because it becomes possible to improve.

  The processing apparatus according to the present invention has a power saving function, and is useful as a technique for further power saving even when the power saving state is entered again after the power saving is canceled.

1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a management system 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an MFP 10 included in the management system 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a management device 30 included in the management system 1. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing contents executed in a PU 115 of the MFP 10. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing contents of a main routine executed by the CPU 101 of the control unit 114 of the copying machine 10. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the subroutine of the event process contained in the said main routine. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the subroutine of the incoming call process contained in the said event process. It is a flowchart which shows the content of the trouble detection process performed in the said CPU101. 4 is a flowchart showing processing contents executed in the management apparatus 30. It is a figure for demonstrating the content of the whole process in the management system.

Explanation of symbols

1 Management system 10, 20 MFP (multifunction digital copier)
11 Copier body 12, 34 Modem 30 Management device 40 Telephone line network 50 LAN
60 Client terminal 101, 312 CPU
114 Control unit 115 PU (power supply device)

Claims (3)

It has a power saving function, a processing device connected via the external device and the network,
A power-saving canceling means for canceling the power-saving state when any one of a plurality of different power-saving canceling factors occurs during power saving;
Depending on the type of release factor that occurred, after the power saving cancellation, if the predetermined event does not occur, the power saving transition means for changing the power saving transition time until the transition to the power saving state again ,
Receiving means for receiving a management data transmission request from the external device;
Input receiving means for receiving an operation input from a user ,
The plurality of types of power saving cancellation factors include receiving the transmission request and receiving the operation input,
The power saving transition means is:
When the generated canceling factor is acceptance of the operation input, the power saving transition time is set as the first time. When the generated canceling factor is reception of the transmission request, the power saving shift time is set as the first time. A processing apparatus characterized in that the second time is shorter than the time . It is connected to an external device different from the external device via a network,
Job execution means for receiving a job execution request from the other external device and executing the job based on the received execution request,
The plurality of types of power saving cancellation factors include accepting the job execution request,
The power saving transition means is :
When releasing factors that occurred is accepted the job execution request, the processing apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that the third time longer than the second time the power saving shift time. The job is a print job or FAX reception job, the job execution means, to claim 2, characterized in that to perform a printout or FAX reception based on the execution request of a print job or the FAX reception job accepted The processing apparatus as described.

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