JP4650544B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming method, and image forming program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, and more particularly to a technique for enhancing an energy saving effect.

The conventional image forming apparatus is in a standby state in which printing can be started promptly when power is turned on and printing is completed for a predetermined time (for example, 10 minutes) or longer when there is no input or when the user presses the sleep button. In some cases, the energy saving effect is enhanced by shifting to a sleep state with reduced power consumption.
When a new print job is submitted through the PC or directly by the user in the sleep state, the image forming apparatus immediately starts warming up and shifts to the print state. Printing cannot be started, and a waiting time of about 40 seconds is generated for an early model and 6 minutes for a late model.

  Therefore, in order to reduce the waiting time as much as possible, when any input other than the sleep button is made, the image forming apparatus determines that there is a possibility that a new print job may be submitted, and immediately warms up. Start and shift from the sleep state to the standby state in advance. For example, when the user performs any operation on the operation panel in the sleep state, the warm-up is started and the standby state is entered. When the user performs any operation on the operation panel in the standby state, the sleep mode is entered. The counter for a predetermined time is reset.

For example, as a conventional technique for reducing the power consumption of an image forming apparatus, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-133867 discloses a technique for performing a power saving mode by sensing ambient brightness.
JP-A-9-179447

However, in the image forming apparatus as described above, when a print job is erroneously input and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is started, the print job is cancelled. Since the situation is not taken into consideration at all, it does not match the actual situation, there is waste, and there is room for improving the energy saving effect.
SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image forming apparatus, an image forming method, and an image forming program that realize energy saving control more appropriately in consideration of circumstances associated with job cancellation.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is in a standby state in which printing can be started promptly, and when there is no print job input and direct operation by the user for a predetermined time or more, An image forming apparatus that can not start printing as quickly as the standby state but shifts to a sleep state with reduced power consumption. When a print job is input, if the input state is the standby state Transition to a print state, if it is in a sleep state, start warming up and shift to a print state; if in transition to a print state, the first transition control means for waiting the print job; When a direct operation is detected, if the detected time is in the sleep state, a transition is made to the standby state. The second transition control means for recording that it has been detected if the transition from the state to the print state is in progress, and canceling when one print job is canceled and no other print job is waiting. If the detected state is in the transition from the sleep state to the print state, the third transition control is performed to shift to the standby state when the sensed effect is recorded, and to shift to the sleep state when it is not recorded. Means.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming method according to the present invention, in a standby state in which printing can be started promptly, when a print job is input and a direct operation by the user is not longer than a predetermined time, An image forming method in an image forming apparatus that shifts to a sleep state in which power consumption can be suppressed while printing cannot be started immediately compared to the standby state. When a print job is input, 1st transition control that shifts to the print state if it is in the state, starts warming up if it is in the sleep state, shifts to the print state, and waits for the print job if it is in the transition to the print state Step and when the direct operation is detected, if the detected time is in a sleep state The second transition control step of recording that the detection is made if the transition is made from the sleep state to the print state, one print job is canceled, and no other print job is waiting In this case, if the canceled state is during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, the state is further shifted to the standby state when the sensed fact is recorded, and to the sleep state when it is not recorded. And a third transition control step for transition.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming program according to the present invention, in a standby state in which printing can be started promptly, when there is no print job input and direct operation by the user for a predetermined time or more, An image forming program for causing an image forming apparatus to shift to a sleep state in which power consumption is reduced, but cannot start printing as compared with the standby state, to execute an image forming operation, and a print job is input to the image forming apparatus If it is put on, if it is in the standby state, it shifts to the print state, and if it is in the sleep state, it starts warming up and shifts to the print state. If there is a first transition control step for waiting the print job, and the direct operation is detected If the detected time is in the sleep state, a transition is made to the standby state, and if the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, a second transition control step for recording the detection, and one print job Canceled and when no other print job is waiting, if the canceled state is during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, and further when the perception is recorded A third transition control step is executed to shift to the standby state and to shift to the sleep state when not recorded.

With the configuration described in the means for solving the problem, when a print job is erroneously input in the image forming apparatus and the print job is canceled during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, another print job is Only when not waiting and when a direct operation is not sensed during the transition can the sleep state be entered.
Therefore, considering the circumstances associated with job cancellation, it is possible to realize energy saving control that is more suitable for the actual situation, and to enhance the energy saving effect without impairing the convenience for the user.

  Here, in the image forming apparatus, if the first transition control unit is in a sleep state when it is turned on, the first transition control unit starts a warm-up and shifts to a print state. The transition to the print state from the sleep state is recorded until the transition to the state is completed, and the second transition control means is in the transition from the sleep state to the print state when detected. Only when the fact is recorded, the sensed fact is recorded, and when the third transition control means is canceled, the fact that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress is recorded. If it has not been recorded, a transition is made to the standby state, and when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is recorded Depending on whether or not the sensed fact is recorded, switching to the standby state or the sleep state, and recording that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, And erasing the sensed record.

  Here, in the image forming method and the image forming program, the first transition control step starts the warming-up and shifts to the printing state if the input is in the sleep state, and the warming-up is completed. The transition from the sleep state to the print state is recorded until the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, and when the second transition control step is sensed, the sleep state to the print state is recorded. Only when it is recorded that the transition to the state is recorded, the sensed fact is recorded, and when the third transition control step is canceled, the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress. If it is not recorded that it is, it shifts to the standby state and switches from the sleep state to the print state. When it is recorded that the in-flight is recorded, whether to shift to the standby state or the sleep state is switched according to whether or not the sensed fact is recorded, and the sleep state It is also possible to delete the record indicating that the transition to the print state is in progress and the record indicating that the detection has been made.

As a result, it is recorded that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, and based on this, it is determined whether or not a direct operation has been detected during the transition, and if the print job is later canceled, Since it is determined whether or not to shift to the state, simple and efficient control can be performed.
Here, when the warm-up is completed and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, the image forming apparatus further records that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress and the detection. It is also possible to provide an erasure control means for erasing the record to the effect.

Here, the image forming method and the image forming program further record that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress when the warm-up is completed and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed. And an erasure control step of erasing the record indicating that the detection has been made.
Thus, since each record is erased when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, the same operation as the previous time can be performed when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is performed next time.

Here, in the image forming apparatus, the image forming method, and the image forming program, during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, during the warming up and during the image stabilization process appropriately performed after the warming up ends. It can also be characterized by including.
As a result, even during the image stabilization process, it is possible to shift to the sleep state in the same manner, so that it is possible to realize energy saving control that is more suitable for the actual situation.

Here, in the image forming apparatus, the image forming method, and the image forming program, the transition from the sleep state to the print state includes during warm-up and during processing related to print data before starting printing. You can also
As a result, even during the processing related to the print data, it is possible to shift to the sleep state in the same manner, so that it is possible to realize energy saving control that is more suitable for the actual situation.

  Here, the image forming apparatus further includes a timer control unit including a timer for measuring the predetermined time during the transition from the standby state to the print state, and one print job is completed, and And a fourth transition control unit that resets the timer and shifts to a standby state when no other print job is waiting, and the first transition control unit is in a standby state when it is input. If there is, a transition is made to the print state, and the fact that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress is recorded until the transition to the print state is completed, and the second transition control means The timer is reset if the printer is in a standby state or a transition from the standby state to the print state. If the timer is not detected, at least the transition to the print state is completed. Does not reset the timer, and the third transition control means does not reset the timer if it is recorded that a transition from the standby state to the print state is recorded when the cancellation is made. Thus, it is possible to shift to the standby state while continuing to measure the predetermined time, and to delete the record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress.

  Here, the image forming apparatus further includes a timer control unit including a timer for measuring the predetermined time during the transition from the standby state to the print state, and the image forming method and the image forming program are The first transition control step further includes a fourth transition control step for resetting the timer to shift to a standby state when one print job is completed and another print job is not waiting. In the step, if it is in the standby state, the process shifts to the print state, records that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress until the shift to the print state is completed, and 2 The transition control step resets the timer if the detected time is in the standby state and the transition from the standby state to the print state. If not, the timer is not reset at least until the transition to the print state is completed, and the third transition control step indicates that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress when the cancellation is made. If it has been recorded, the timer is not reset, the timer is shifted to the standby state while keeping the predetermined time, and the record indicating the transition from the standby state to the print state is deleted. It can also be characterized.

As a result, when a print job is submitted and canceled in the standby state, the timer that counts the predetermined time until the transition to the sleep state is not reset, so the transition time from the standby state to the print state is more suitable for the actual situation. Energy saving control can be realized.
Here, the image forming apparatus further includes an erasing control unit that erases a record that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress when the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed. It can also be.

Here, the image forming method and the image forming program further include an erasing control step for erasing a record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress when the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed. It can also be characterized by including.
As a result, since the record is deleted when the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed, the same operation as the previous time can be performed when the transition from the standby state to the print state is performed next time.

  Here, in the image forming apparatus, the first shift control unit shifts to a print state when a specific job that does not start printing is input by remote operation until the user receives a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body. Instead, the specific job is stored in a temporary area, and the second transition control means determines that the print job is submitted when the predetermined direct operation is performed, and the direct operation is performed. If the printer is in the standby state, the printer is shifted to the print state. If the printer is in the sleep state, the warm-up is started and the printer is shifted to the print state. It can also be.

  Here, in the image forming method and the image forming program, the first transition control step is configured such that when a specific job that does not start printing is input by remote operation until the user receives a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body. The specific job is stored in the temporary area without shifting to the state, and the second shift control step assumes that the print job is input when the predetermined direct operation is performed. If it is done, it shifts to the print state if it is in the standby state, starts warming up if it is in the sleep state and shifts to the print state, and if it is in the print state and shifts to the print state, the print job is It can also be made to make it wait.

As a result, printing is not started when a job is submitted by remote operation, and transition to the printing state is started when a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body by the user is received. The risk of being seen or taken to somewhere is reduced, the secrecy is increased, and the energy saving effect can be enhanced.
Here, in the image forming apparatus, when the specific job that does not start printing is input until a predetermined direct operation is performed on the apparatus main body by the user, the first shift control unit does not shift to the print state. The specific job is stored in the temporary area, the standby state transition time is predicted based on the past history, and if the standby state transition time is the sleep state, the standby state is shifted to the standby state, and the second transition control means If the specified direct operation is performed, it is assumed that a print job has been submitted, and if the direct operation is performed, the printer enters the print state if it is in the standby state, and starts warming up if it is in the sleep state. To the print state, and if the print state is being transferred to the print state, the print job can be put on standby. It can also be characterized.

  Here, in the image forming method and the image forming program, the first shift control step shifts to a print state when a specific job that does not start printing is input until the user receives a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body. Without waiting, the specific job is stored in a temporary area, the standby state transition time is predicted based on the past history, and if the standby state transition time is the sleep state, the standby state is shifted to the standby state. In the second transition control step, it is assumed that a print job is input when the predetermined direct operation is performed. If warming up is started and the printer enters the print state, and if the printer is in the print state It may also be characterized in that to wait for the print job.

  As a result, printing is not started when a job is submitted by remote operation, and transition to the printing state is started when a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body by the user is received. And the risk of being taken to somewhere is reduced, the secrecy is increased, and the standby state transition time is predicted, and if it is in the sleep state, it shifts to the standby state. The energy-saving effect can be enhanced without loss.

[Embodiment 1]
<Overview>
In the image forming apparatus that shifts from the standby state to the sleep state when there is no print job input or direct user operation for a predetermined time or more, the first embodiment erroneously inputs a print job and shifts from the sleep state to the print state. When a print job is canceled after the transition is started, the transition to the sleep state instead of the standby state is performed only when no other print job is waiting and no direct operation is detected during the transition. Is.

Here, the standby state is a state in which the fixing temperature is controlled to be equal to the print state so that printing can be started quickly. The sleep state starts printing more quickly than the standby state. Although it cannot, the fixing temperature is controlled to reduce power consumption.
<Configuration>
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment.

  An image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment is a multi-function machine that integrates a plurality of functions such as copying, network printing, a scanner, a fax machine, and a document server. As shown in FIG. , A scanner unit 13, a communication unit 14, a data storage unit 15, a printer unit 16, a paper feed unit 17, a finisher unit 18, and an arithmetic control unit 19.

The operation unit 11 is an operation panel provided with a plurality of input buttons, and is arranged around the front of the upper surface of the apparatus so that the user can easily operate. This is notified to the arithmetic control unit 19.
The display unit 12 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display, and is disposed adjacent to the operation unit 11 and provides various visual information to the user under the control of the calculation control unit 19. For example, information indicating the state of the apparatus, error information, an image based on the stored image data, a destination list, information input by the user, a key for a touch panel, and the like are displayed.

In the present embodiment, since the operation unit 11 and the display unit 12 constitute a touch panel, the display unit 12 displays touch panel soft keys on the screen, and the operation unit 11 displays each soft key on the display unit 12. Is recognized by the user's finger and the fact is notified to the arithmetic control unit 19.
The scanner unit 13 is a hardware part of a document reading device that reads an image of a document by a sheet-through method, and is arranged in an upper part of the device, and image information such as photographs, illustrations, characters, and the like is converted from the document by photoelectric conversion. It reads to generate an image signal, which is converted into digital data. The converted digital data is subjected to various types of existing image processing and image processing specific to the present embodiment in the arithmetic control unit 19 to generate image data in which streak noise is corrected, and the generated image The data is transferred to the communication unit 14, the data storage unit 15, the printer unit 16, and the like, and is used, stored, and transmitted, respectively. The details of the scanner unit 13 will be described separately below.

  The communication unit 14 is a communication interface that is connected to a NIC (network interface card), a modem, a TA (terminal adapter), etc., and transmits / receives image data, instruction commands, etc. to / from an external device, and is disposed inside the device. For example, image data to be stored or image data of an image to be printed is received from an external personal computer (not shown), a fax machine (not shown), etc., and each is transferred to the data storage unit 15 or the printer unit 16. The image data read by the scanner unit 13 and generated by the calculation control unit 19 or the image data stored in the data storage unit 15 is transmitted to an external personal computer or a fax machine.

  The data storage unit 15 is a storage medium including a hard disk, a memory card reader / writer, a memory card, and the like. The data storage unit 15 is arranged inside the apparatus, read by the scanner unit 13, and generated by the arithmetic control unit 19, or a communication unit. 14 stores the image data received by. Here, since the memory card is attached to the memory card reader / writer and can be easily attached / detached, the data can be exchanged with an external device without relying on the communication unit 14, and is used for data backup.

The printer unit 16 is disposed in the central portion of the apparatus, and is stored in the image data read by the scanner unit 13 and generated in the arithmetic control unit 19, image data received from the outside by the communication unit 14, or the data storage unit 15. Based on the existing image data, a color image is formed on a recording sheet such as paper or an OHP film.
The paper feeding unit 17 is provided below the printer unit 16, stores a plurality of types of recording sheets, takes out desired recording sheets one by one from the recording sheets, and supplies them to the printer unit 16.

The finisher unit 18 is provided near the end point of the recording sheet conveyance path in the printer unit 16, and performs post-processing such as stapling and punching on the recording sheet on which the color image is formed.
The arithmetic control unit 19 includes a microcomputer, a control program, and the like, is arranged inside the apparatus, controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 1, and includes various existing image processes and image processes peculiar to the present embodiment. Perform various arithmetic processes.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an outline of a basic functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 1 in the present embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 2, the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment includes a main control unit 20, a first transition control unit 21, a second transition control unit 22, a third transition control unit 23, and a fourth transition control unit 24. A timer control unit 25, a first erasure control unit 26, a second erasure control unit 27, a user input detection unit 28, a state control unit 29, and an execution unit 30.

Here, the main control unit 20, the first transition control unit 21, the second transition control unit 22, the third transition control unit 23, the fourth transition control unit 24, the timer control unit 25, the first erasure control unit 26, and the first The 2 erasure control unit 27 is hardware such as a processor that is operated by control software, and corresponds to a part of the function of the arithmetic control unit 19.
After the power is turned on, the main control unit 20 waits until it enters a standby state, and then the other control units (first transition control unit 21, second transition control unit 22, third transition control unit 23, fourth transition A control right is assigned to the control unit 24, the timer control unit 25, the first erasure control unit 26, and the second erasure control unit 27) in order. Further, the main control unit 20 includes each state flag indicating that each state is present, and each transition flag indicating that a transition from one state to another state is in progress. , A standby state flag, a sleep state flag, a print state flag, a transition flag A, and a transition flag B. For example, when the standby state flag is set, it is in a standby state (including the transition to the standby state), and when the sleep state flag is set, it is in the sleep state (including the transition to the sleep state). Yes, when the print status flag is set and the transition flag A is set, the transition from the standby state to the print state is being performed, the print status flag is set, and the transition flag B is set Is in the print state when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, the print state flag is set, and neither the transition flag A nor the transition flag B is set.

In addition, the main control unit 20 includes a detection flag indicating that a direct operation on the apparatus main body by the user is detected during the transition from the sleep state to the print state.
When a print job is input, the first shift control unit 21 shifts to the print state if the input is in the standby state, and appropriately performs image stabilization processing and print start. Until the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed after completion of the processing relating to the print data such as network transfer and RIP processing to be performed, the fact that the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed is recorded. When the warm-up is started and the print state is shifted, the image stabilization process appropriately performed after the warm-up, the warm-up is performed, and the processes relating to the print data such as the network transfer and the RIP process performed before the start of the print are finished and the sleep is completed. Until the transition from status to print status is completed, Records that the sleep state in transition to a print state, print state, and to wait the print job if during the transition to the print condition.

  Specifically, first, when a control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether or not a print job has been submitted. If a print job has been submitted, the current status is set to each status flag. Judgment by reference. If the standby state flag is set here, a transition flag A indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress is set. If the sleep state flag is set, the sleep state flag is cleared, the print state flag is set, and the transition flag B is set. If the print status flag is set, the print job is waited.

  The second transition control unit 22 shifts to the standby state when the user's direct operation to the apparatus main body is detected by the user input detection unit 28 and the detected time is in the sleep state, and from the sleep state. If it is in the transition to the print state, the fact that it has been detected is recorded, and if it is in the standby state and in the transition from the standby state to the print state, the timer provided in the timer control unit 25 is reset.

  Specifically, first, when a control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether or not a direct operation is sensed. If a direct operation is sensed, the current state is referred to each state flag. Judging by doing. Here, if the sleep state flag is set, the sleep state flag is cleared and the standby state flag is set, and if the transition flag B is set, the sensing flag is set, and the standby state flag is set. If set, the timer provided in the timer control unit 25 is reset.

  The third transition control unit 23, when one print job is canceled and another print job is not waiting, is the time when the cancellation is in the transition from the sleep state to the print state. Further, when a message indicating the detection is recorded, the state is shifted to the standby state, and the recording indicating the detection and the record indicating the transition from the sleep state to the print state are erased. The timer control unit 25 is provided if the transition to the sleep state is performed, the record indicating that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is being performed, and the canceled state is the transition from the standby state to the print state. Without resetting the timer, shift to the standby state while continuing to count the specified time, and erase the record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress. And, if even during transition from the standby state even during the transition from the sleep state to the printing state of the printing state shifts to reset the timer with the timer control unit 25 is to the wait state.

  Specifically, first, when a control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether any print job is canceled and another print job is not waiting, and the print job is canceled. When no other print job is waiting, the current state is determined by referring to each state flag. If the in-transition flag B is set and the sensing flag is set, the in-transition flag B and the print state flag are cleared, the standby state flag is set, the in-transition flag B is set, and If the sensing flag is not set, the transition flag B and the print state flag are cleared and the sleep state flag is set. If the transition flag A is set, the timer included in the timer control unit 25 is set. Without resetting, the transition flag A and the print state flag are cleared and the standby state flag is set. If neither the transition flag A nor the transition flag B is set, the timer included in the timer control unit 25 is reset. The print status flag is cleared and the standby status flag is set.

The fourth shift control unit 24 resets the timer included in the timer control unit 25 and shifts to a standby state when one print job is completed and another print job is not waiting.
Specifically, first, when a control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether any print job is finished and another print job is not waiting. Here, when the print job is completed and no other print job is waiting, the timer included in the timer control unit 25 is reset, the print state flag is cleared, and the standby state flag is set.

  The timer control unit 25 measures the timing of transition from the standby state to the sleep state, and includes a timer that counts a predetermined time during the transition from the standby state to the print state. And when there is no direct operation by the user for a predetermined time or more, and during the transition from the standby state and the standby state to the print state, the direct operation by the user is not longer than the predetermined time, and Even if a print job is input, if the print job is canceled before reaching the print state, the print job is shifted to the sleep state.

When the warm-up is completed and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, the first erasure control unit 26 records that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, and records that it is detected. Erase.
Specifically, first, when the control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether the warm-up is completed and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed. Here, when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, the transition flag B and the detection flag are cleared.

When the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed, the second erase control unit 27 erases the record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress.
Specifically, first, when the control right is given by the main control unit 20, it is determined whether the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed. If the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed, the in-transition flag A is cleared.

The user input detection unit 28 detects a direct operation by the user, such as an input to the operation panel by the user or a document detected by a sensor when the document is placed on the document table by the user.
The state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and controls the state of the apparatus so as to be in a state corresponding to the set state flag.

The execution unit 30 executes a job such as printing.
<Control method>
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a flow of main control processing by the main control unit 20.
(1) When the power is turned on, the state control unit 29 starts warming up and shifts to a standby state (step S1). Specifically, after resetting the timer included in the timer control unit 25 and prohibiting other states from changing each state flag, only the standby state flag is set, and each state flag is allowed to be changed by the other party. As a result, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and performs control so that the state of the apparatus becomes a standby state.

(2) Wait until a standby state is reached (step S2). Specifically, for example, when the temperature of the fixing unit reaches a specified temperature in the standby state in a state where no trouble has occurred, it is determined that the standby state has been entered.
(3) When the standby state is entered (step S2: YES), the timer control unit 25 is caused to execute a timer control subroutine, and the timing for shifting from the standby state to the sleep state is measured (step S3).

(4) The first transition control unit 21 is caused to execute a first transition control subroutine to monitor the input of a print job (step S4).
(5) The second transition control unit 22 is caused to execute the second transition operation subroutine, and an operation on the operation panel and an operation on the user input detection unit 28 by the user such as whether a document is placed are monitored. (Step S5).

(6) The third transition control unit 23 is caused to execute the third transition control subroutine, and the print job cancellation is monitored (step S6).
(7) The fourth transition control unit 24 is caused to execute the fourth transition control subroutine, and the end of the print job is monitored (step S7).
(8) The first erasure control unit 26 is caused to execute the first erasure control subroutine, and the completion of the transition from the sleep state to the print state is monitored (step S8).

(9) The second erase control unit 27 is caused to execute the second erase control subroutine, and the completion of the transition from the standby state to the print state is monitored (step S9).
(10) The state control unit 29 maintains and changes the state of the apparatus (step S9). Specifically, if there is no change in each state flag, the corresponding state is maintained, and if there is a change, the state is changed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a flow of a timer control operation subroutine by the timer control unit 25.
(1) It is determined whether or not it is in a standby state (step S11). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the standby state flag is set.
(2) If it is in the standby state (step S11: YES), the time measurement by the timer is started or continued (step S12).

(3) It is determined whether a predetermined time or more has elapsed since the start of time measurement by the timer (step S13). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the timer indicates that 10 minutes have elapsed.
(4) If the predetermined time or more has elapsed (step S13: YES), the sleep state is entered (step S14). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by others to each status flag, clearing the standby status flag, setting the sleep status flag, and then allowing others to change each status flag, The control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus from the standby state to the sleep state.

(5) If it is not in the standby state (step S11: NO), it is determined whether or not the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress (step S15). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the transition flag A is set.
(6) When the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress (step S15: YES), the time measurement by the timer is continued in preparation for job cancellation (step S16).

(7) Even in the standby state, if the transition from the standby state to the print state is not in progress (step S15: NO), the time measurement by the timer is stopped and the timer is initialized (hereinafter referred to as "reset") (step S15). S17).
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a first transition control operation subroutine by the first transition control unit 21.

(1) It is determined whether or not a print job has been submitted (step S21).
(2) If a print job has been submitted (step S21: YES), it is determined whether or not it is in a standby state (step S22). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the standby state flag is set.
(3) If it is in the standby state (step S22: YES), it is shifted to the print state, and the fact that the shift from the standby state to the print state is in progress is recorded (step S23). Specifically, the in-migration flag A is set.

(4) It is determined whether or not it is in a sleep state (step S24). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the sleep state flag is set.
(5) If it is in the sleep state (step S24: YES), warm-up is started to shift to the print state, and the fact that the shift from the sleep state to the print state is in progress is recorded (step S25). Specifically, after prohibiting changes to each status flag by others, the sleep status flag is cleared, the print status flag is set, the transition flag B is set, and then the status flag is set by another party. By permitting the change, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus from the sleep state to the print state.

(6) It is determined whether or not the printing state and the transition to the printing state are in progress (step S26). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the print status flag is set.
(7) If the print state and the transition to the print state are in progress (step S26: YES), the print job is waited (step S27).

(8) If the print state and the transition to the print state are not in progress (step S26: NO), an error processing routine is called (step S28).
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a flow of a second transition control operation subroutine by the second transition control unit 22.
(1) It is determined whether or not a direct operation on the apparatus main body by the user has been detected (step S31).

(2) If a direct operation is detected (step S31: YES), it is determined whether or not a sleep state is set (step S32). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the sleep state flag is set.
(3) If it is in the sleep state (step S32: YES), it shifts to the standby state (step S33). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by others to each state flag, clearing the sleep state flag, setting the standby state flag, and then allowing others to change each state flag, The control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus from the sleep state to the standby state.

(4) It is determined whether or not a transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress (step S34). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the transition flag B is set.
(5) If it is in the transition from the sleep state to the print state (step S34: YES), the fact that it is detected is recorded (step S35). Specifically, the sensing flag is set.

(6) It is determined whether or not the standby state and the transition from the standby state to the print state are in progress (step S36). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the standby state flag is set.
(7) If the standby state and the transition from the standby state to the print state are in progress (step S36: YES), the timer is reset (step S37).

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a third transition control operation subroutine by the third transition control unit 23.
(1) It is determined whether any one print job has been canceled (step S41).
(2) If any one print job is canceled (step S41: YES), it is determined whether another print job is waiting (step S42).

(3) If no other print job is waiting (step S42: NO), it is determined whether or not the printer is in the transition from the sleep state to the print state (step S43). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the transition flag B is set.
(4) When the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress (step S43: YES), it is determined whether or not the fact that the direct operation is detected during the transition from the sleep state to the print state is recorded. (Step S44). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the sensing flag is set.

  (5) When the detection is recorded (step S44: YES), the state is shifted to the standby state, the recording that the transition from the sleep state to the printing state is in progress, and the recording that the detection is performed Is deleted (step S45). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by other parties to each status flag, the print status flag is cleared, the standby status flag is set, the transition flag B and the sensing flag are reset, and then each status flag is set. By permitting another person to change the flag, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus to the standby state.

  (6) When the sensed fact is not recorded (step S44: NO), the state is shifted to the sleep state, and the record that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress is deleted (step S46). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by each other to each status flag, the print status flag is cleared, the sleep status flag is set, and the in-transition flag B is reset. By permitting the change, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus to the sleep state.

(7) If it is not in the transition from the sleep state to the print state (step S43: NO), it is determined whether or not the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress (step S47). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the transition flag A is set.
(8) If the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress (step S47: YES), the timer is not reset and the standby state is shifted to the standby state while keeping a predetermined time. The record indicating that the process is in progress is deleted (step S48). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by each other to each status flag, the print status flag is cleared, the standby status flag is set, and the in-transition flag A is reset. By permitting the change, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus to the standby state.

  (9) When the transition from the standby state to the print state is not in progress (step S47: NO), the timer is reset to shift to the standby state (step S49). Specifically, after resetting the timer and prohibiting changes by others to each status flag, clearing the print status flag, setting the standby status flag, and allowing changes by each other to each status flag Thus, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus to the standby state.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a fourth transition control operation subroutine by the fourth transition control unit 24.
(1) It is determined whether any one print job is completed (step S51).
(2) If any one print job is completed (step S51: YES), it is determined whether another print job is waiting (step S52).

  (3) If another print job is not waiting (step S52: NO), the process is shifted to a standby state and the timer is reset (step S53). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by other parties to each status flag, clearing the print status flag, setting the standby status flag, resetting the timer, and then allowing others to change each status flag Thus, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus to the standby state.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a flow of a first erase control operation subroutine by the first erase controller 26.
(1) It is determined whether or not the transition from the sleep state to the print state has been completed (step S61).
(2) When the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed (step S61: YES), the record indicating that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress and the record indicating that it has been detected are erased. (Step S62). Specifically, when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, the transition flag B and the detection flag are cleared.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a flow of a second erase control operation subroutine by the second erase controller 27.
(1) It is determined whether or not the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed (step S71).
(2) When the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed (step S71: YES), the record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress is deleted (step S72). Specifically, the transition flag A is cleared when the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed.

<Verification of effects>
FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an outline of a signal flow between a user, a PC (personal computer), and an MFP (image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment) when a print job is normally performed without being canceled. . Here, FIG. 11 is based on the control method of this embodiment, but there is no difference from the conventional control method.

As shown in FIG. 11, when the user issues a print instruction to the PC (P1), the PC sends a print job to the MFP (P2), and when the MFP receives the print job in the sleep state, it starts warming up ( P3), printing is started (P4), and when printing is completed (P5), printed matter is output (P6), and the MFP enters a standby state (P7).
FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled during warm-up when shifting from the sleep state to the print state. Here, FIG. 12A is based on the conventional control method, and FIG. 12B is based on the control method of the present embodiment.

In both FIGS. 12A and 12B, a print job cancel instruction is given during warm-up. Thereafter, in FIG. 12A, the process waits for completion of warm-up and shifts to a standby state. On the other hand, in FIG. 12B, as soon as a cancel instruction is given, warm-up is stopped and a sleep state is entered.
FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled during an image stabilization process appropriately performed after warming up. Here, FIG. 13A is based on the conventional control method, and FIG. 13B is based on the control method of the present embodiment.

  In FIGS. 13A and 13B, a print job cancel instruction is issued during the image stabilization process. After that, in FIG. 13A, the process waits for the image stabilization process to be completed. In contrast to the transition to the standby state, in FIG. 13B, the image stabilization process is stopped immediately after the cancel instruction is given, or at the timing when the latest break is good, and the transition is made to the sleep state.

  FIGS. 14A and 14B show that processing related to print data performed before the start of printing does not end during the warm-up when shifting from the sleep state to the print state, and continues after the warm-up. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled. Here, FIG. 14A is based on the conventional control method, and FIG. 14B is based on the control method of the present embodiment.

  14 (a) and 14 (b), a print job cancel instruction is issued during the calculation process related to print data. However, in FIG. 14 (a), the print data is immediately displayed when the cancel instruction is issued. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 14B, as soon as a cancel instruction is issued, the calculation process related to print data is stopped and the process shifts to the sleep state.

<Summary>
As described above, according to the present embodiment, when a print job is input by mistake and the print job is canceled during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, is another print job waiting? Depending on whether or not direct operation was performed during the transition, it is possible to shift to the sleep state as appropriate, so that it is possible to realize energy saving control more suited to the actual situation in consideration of the circumstances associated with job cancellation, It has an excellent effect that the energy saving effect can be enhanced without impairing the convenience of the user.
[Modification 1]
<Overview>
In the modified example 1, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, when a print job is input by remote operation, the user does not actually start printing, but the user directly performs a predetermined direct operation (hereinafter referred to as “print start operation” ")" Is a special case relating to a specific job (hereinafter, "touch and go print job") that starts printing when received.

<Configuration>
The first shift control unit 21 shifts to the print state when a normal print job other than the touch-and-go print job is input, and further shifts to the print state when the touch-and-go print job is input by remote operation. The touch-and-go print job is stored in the temporary area without shifting.

  In addition to the processing when the normal input operation other than the print start operation is detected by the user input detection unit 28, the second transition control unit 22 further performs a normal print job when a print start operation is performed. Assuming that a print job has been submitted, when a print start operation is performed, if it is in a standby state, it shifts to a print state, and if it is in a sleep state, it starts warming up and shifts to a print state. If the print state is being transferred, the touch-and-go print job is waited.

Other components are the same as those in the first embodiment.
<Control method>
The flow of main control processing by the main control unit 20 is the same as in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment, and the flow of the timer control operation subroutine by the timer control unit 25 is the same as in FIG. 4 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a first transition control operation subroutine by the first transition control unit 21 in the first modification.
Here, the same numbers are assigned to the steps for performing the same processing as the flow of the first transition control operation subroutine by the first transition control unit 21 shown in FIG. 5 of the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.
(1) Same as (1) in FIG. 5 (step S21).

(2) It is determined whether the print job is a touch-and-go print job (step S81).
(3) If it is a touch and go print job (step S81: YES), the touch and go print job is stored in a temporary area (step S82).
(4) to (10) When the print job is not a touch-and-go print job (step S81: NO), the same as (2) to (8) in FIG. 5 (steps S22 to S28).

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a second transition control operation subroutine by the second transition control unit 22 in the first modification.
Here, steps that perform the same processing as the flow of the second transition control operation subroutine by the second transition control unit 22 shown in FIG. 6 of the first embodiment are assigned the same numbers, and description thereof is omitted.

(1) Same as (1) in FIG. 6 (step S31).
(2) It is determined whether it is a print start operation (step S91).
(3) If it is a print start operation (step S91: YES),
It is determined whether or not it is in a standby state (step S92). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the standby state flag is set.

(4) If it is in the standby state (step S92: YES), the state is shifted to the print state, and the fact that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress is recorded (step S93). Specifically, the in-migration flag A is set.
(5) It is determined whether or not it is in a sleep state (step S94). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the sleep state flag is set.

  (6) If it is in the sleep state (step S94: YES), warm-up is started to shift to the print state, and the fact that the shift from the sleep state to the print state is in progress is recorded (step S95). Specifically, after prohibiting changes to each status flag by others, the sleep status flag is cleared, the print status flag is set, the transition flag B is set, and then the status flag is set by another party. By permitting the change, the state control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus from the sleep state to the print state.

(7) It is determined whether or not the printing state and the transition to the printing state are in progress (step S96). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the print status flag is set.
(8) If the print state and the transition to the print state are in progress (step S96: YES), the print job is waited (step S97).

(9) If the print state and the transition to the print state are not in progress (step S96: NO), an error processing routine is called (step S98).
(10) When it is not a print start operation (step S91: NO), the same as (2) to (7) in FIG. 6 (steps S32 to 37).
The flow of the third transition control operation by the third transition control unit 23 is the same as that in FIG. 7 of the first embodiment, and the flow of the fourth transition control operation by the fourth transition control unit 24 is the same as that in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment. The flow of the first erase control operation by the first erase control unit 26 is the same as that in FIG. 9 of the first embodiment, and the flow of the second erase control operation by the second erase control unit 27 is the same as in the first embodiment. This is the same as FIG.
[Modification 2]
<Overview>
In the second modification, in addition to the configuration of the first embodiment, when a print job is input by remote operation, the user does not actually start printing, but the user directly performs a predetermined direct operation (hereinafter referred to as “print start operation” ”) Is another special case different from Modification 1 regarding a specific job (hereinafter,“ touch-and-go printing job ”) that starts printing when it receives the job, and predicts the standby state transition time based on the past history. Then, a transition is made to the standby state.

<Configuration>
The first shift control unit 21 shifts to the print state when a normal print job other than the touch-and-go print job is input, and further shifts to the print state when the touch-and-go print job is input by remote operation. Save the touch-and-go print job in a temporary area without making a transition, predict the standby state transition time based on the past history, and enter the standby state if the standby state transition time is the sleep state Transition. Here, the past history is, for example, for each user, a past record in which the time from when a touch-and-go print job is input by remote operation until receiving a print start operation is accumulated. For example, the past history is subjected to statistical processing, and the time at which the probability that the transition to the standby state is completed before the user performs the print start operation is set to a predetermined value (for example, 90%) is determined.

  In addition to the processing when the normal input operation other than the print start operation is detected by the user input detection unit 28, the second transition control unit 22 further performs a normal print job when a print start operation is performed. Assuming that a print job has been submitted, when a print start operation is performed, if it is in a standby state, it shifts to a print state, and if it is in a sleep state, it starts warming up and shifts to a print state. If the print state is being transferred, the touch-and-go print job is waited.

Other components are the same as those in the first embodiment.
<Control method>
The flow of main control processing by the main control unit 20 is the same as in FIG. 3 of the first embodiment, and the flow of the timer control operation subroutine by the timer control unit 25 is the same as in FIG. 4 of the first embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a flow of a first transition control operation subroutine by the first transition control unit 21 in the second modification.
Here, the same numbers are assigned to the steps for performing the same processing as the flow of the first transition control operation subroutine by the first transition control unit 21 shown in FIG. 5 of the first embodiment, and the description thereof is omitted.
(1) Same as (1) in FIG. 5 (step S21).

(2) It is determined whether the print job is a touch-and-go print job (step S101).
(3) If it is a touch-and-go print job (step S101: YES), the touch-and-go print job is stored in a temporary area, the standby state transition time is predicted based on the past history, and the standby state transition time. The measurement of the time until is started (step S102).
(4) to (10) If the print job is not a touch-and-go print job (step S101: NO), it is the same as (2) to (8) in FIG. 5 (steps S22 to S28).

(11) If no print job has been input (step S21: NO), it is determined whether a touch-and-go print job is stored in the temporary area (step S103).
(12) If the touch-and-go print job is stored (step S103: YES), it is determined whether the standby state transition time has come (step S104).

(13) When the standby state transition time is reached (step S104: YES), it is determined whether or not the sleep state is set (step S105). Specifically, the determination is made based on whether or not the sleep state flag is set.
(14) If it is in the sleep state (step S105: YES), warm-up is started and a standby state is entered (step S106). Specifically, after prohibiting changes by others to each state flag, clearing the sleep state flag, setting the standby state flag, and then allowing others to change each state flag, The control unit 29 refers to each state flag and changes the state of the apparatus from the sleep state to the standby state.

  The flow of the second transition control operation subroutine by the second transition control unit 22 is the same as that of FIG. 16 of the first modification, and the flow of the third transition control operation by the third transition control unit 23 is the same as that of FIG. The flow of the fourth transition control operation by the fourth transition control unit 24 is the same as that in FIG. 8 of the first embodiment, and the flow of the first erase control operation by the first erase control unit 26 is the same as in the first embodiment. 9 and the flow of the second erase control operation by the second erase controller 27 is the same as FIG. 10 of the first embodiment.

  A program that can cause a computer to execute the operations of the first embodiment, the first modification, and the second modification is recorded on a computer-readable recording medium, and this recording medium can be distributed and traded. . In addition, the program may be distributed through a network or the like, for example, and may be traded, or may be displayed on a display device, printed, and presented to a user.

  Here, the computer-readable recording medium is, for example, a removable recording medium such as a floppy (registered trademark) disk, CD, MO, DVD, or memory card, and a fixed recording medium such as a hard disk or semiconductor memory. There is no particular limitation.

The present invention can be widely applied to the technical field of image forming apparatuses.
According to the present invention, since the energy saving effect can be enhanced without impairing the convenience of the user, the industrial utility value is extremely high.

1 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a basic functional configuration of an image forming apparatus 1 according to Embodiment 2. FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the process of the main control by the main control part. It is a figure which shows the flow of the timer control operation subroutine by the timer control part. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 1st transfer control operation subroutine by the 1st transfer control part. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 2nd transfer control operation subroutine by the 2nd transfer control part. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 3rd transfer control operation subroutine by the 3rd transfer control part. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 4th transfer control operation subroutine by the 4th transfer control part. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a flow of a first erase control operation subroutine by a first erase controller 26. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 2nd erase control operation subroutine by the 2nd erase control part. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a signal flow between a user, a PC (personal computer), and an MFP (image forming apparatus of the present embodiment) when a print job is normally performed without being canceled. FIGS. 12A and 12B are diagrams illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled during warm-up when shifting from the sleep state to the print state. FIGS. 13A and 13B are diagrams illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled during an image stabilization process appropriately performed after warming up. FIGS. 14A and 14B show that processing related to print data performed before the start of printing does not end during the warm-up when shifting from the sleep state to the print state, and continues after the warm-up. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an outline of a signal flow when a print job is canceled. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 1st transfer control operation subroutine by the 1st transfer control part 21 in the modification 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 2nd transfer control operation subroutine by the 2nd transfer control part 22 in the modification 1. FIG. It is a figure which shows the flow of the 1st transfer control operation subroutine by the 1st transfer control part 21 in the modification 2. FIG.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 11 Operation part 12 Display part 13 Scanner part 14 Communication part 15 Data storage part 16 Printer part 17 Paper feed part 18 Finisher part 19 Arithmetic control part 20 Main control part 21 1st transfer control part 22 2nd transfer control part 23 third transition control unit 24 fourth transition control unit 25 timer control unit 26 first erasure control unit 27 second erasure control unit 28 user input detection unit 29 state control unit 30 execution unit

Claims (11)

In a standby state where printing can be started immediately, if a print job is not input and a direct operation by the user has not been performed for a predetermined time or longer, printing cannot be started immediately compared to the standby state, but power consumption is reduced. An image forming apparatus that shifts to a sleep state,
When a print job is submitted, if it is in the standby state, the print state is entered, and if it is in the sleep state, warm-up is started and the print state is entered. A first transition control means for waiting the print job if the transition to
When the direct operation is detected, a transition is made to the standby state if the detected time is in the sleep state, and a second transition is recorded if the transition is made from the sleep state to the print state. Control means;
When one print job is canceled and another print job is not waiting, if the canceled time is during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, the fact that the detection has been detected is further displayed. An image forming apparatus comprising: a third transition control unit that shifts to a standby state when recording is performed and shifts to a sleep state when recording is not performed. The first transition control means includes
If it is in the sleep state, the warm-up is started to shift to the print state, and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed until the warm-up is completed and the shift from the sleep state to the print state is completed. Record that it ’s inside,
The second transition control means includes
Only when it is recorded that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is recorded when the detection is performed, the detection is recorded.
The third transition control means includes
When the cancellation is not recorded that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is not recorded, the standby state is entered, and the transition to the print state from the sleep state is recorded. In the case of being switched, whether to shift to the standby state or to shift to the sleep state is switched according to whether or not the sensed fact is recorded, and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image recording apparatus deletes the record indicating that the image is detected and the record indicating that the image is detected. The image forming apparatus further includes:
When the warm-up is completed and the transition from the sleep state to the print state is completed, a record indicating that the transition from the sleep state to the print state is in progress, and an erasure control means for erasing the record indicating the detection The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, further comprising: During the transition from the sleep state to the print state,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: during warming up and during image stabilization processing appropriately performed after the warming up ends. During the transition from the sleep state to the print state,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus includes warm-up and processing related to print data before starting printing. The image forming apparatus further includes:
A timer control unit including a timer that counts the predetermined time during the transition from the standby state to the print state from the standby state;
Fourth transition control means for resetting the timer and shifting to a standby state when one print job is completed and another print job is not waiting;
The first transition control means includes
If it is in the standby state when it is turned on, it is shifted to the print state and records that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress until the transition to the print state is completed,
The second transition control means includes
The timer is reset if the detected time is in the standby state and the transition from the standby state to the print state, and if not detected, the timer is not reset at least until the transition to the print state is completed. ,
The third transition control means includes
If it is recorded that the transition from the standby state to the print state is recorded at the time of the cancellation, the timer is not reset, and the standby state is continued while keeping the predetermined time. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus deletes the record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress. The image forming apparatus further includes:
The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, further comprising: an erasure control unit that erases a record indicating that the transition from the standby state to the print state is in progress when the transition from the standby state to the print state is completed. apparatus. The first transition control means includes
When a specific job that does not start printing is input by remote operation until the user receives a predetermined direct operation on the apparatus main body, the specific job is stored in the temporary area without shifting to the print state,
The second transition control means includes
Assuming that a print job has been submitted when the predetermined direct operation has been performed, if the direct operation is in the standby state, the printer shifts to the print state, and if in the sleep state, warm-up is started and printing is performed. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus waits for the print job if the print job is in the print state and is in the print state. The first transition control means includes
When a specific job that does not start printing is input until the user receives a predetermined direct operation on the main body of the apparatus, the specific job is stored in a temporary area without shifting to the print state, and based on the past history. The standby state transition time is predicted, and at the standby state transition time, if the sleep state,
The second transition control means includes
Assuming that a print job has been submitted when the predetermined direct operation has been performed, if the direct operation is in the standby state, the printer shifts to the print state, and if in the sleep state, warm-up is started and printing is performed. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus waits for the print job if the print job is in the print state and is in the print state. In a standby state where printing can be started immediately, if a print job is not input and a direct operation by the user has not been performed for a predetermined time or longer, printing cannot be started immediately compared to the standby state, but power consumption is reduced. An image forming method in an image forming apparatus that shifts to a sleep state,
When a print job is submitted, if it is in the standby state, the print state is entered, and if it is in the sleep state, warm-up is started and the print state is entered. A first transition control step for waiting the print job if transition to
When the direct operation is detected, a transition is made to the standby state if the detected time is in the sleep state, and a second transition is recorded if the transition is made from the sleep state to the print state. Control steps;
When one print job is canceled and another print job is not waiting, if the canceled time is during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, the fact that the detection has been detected is further displayed. And a third transition control step for transitioning to a standby state when recording is performed and transitioning to a sleep state when recording is not performed. In a standby state where printing can be started immediately, if a print job is not input and a direct operation by the user has not been performed for a predetermined time or longer, printing cannot be started immediately compared to the standby state, but power consumption is reduced. An image forming program for causing an image forming apparatus to enter a sleep state to execute an image forming operation,
In the image forming apparatus,
When a print job is submitted, if it is in the standby state, the print state is entered, and if it is in the sleep state, warm-up is started and the print state is entered. A first transition control step for waiting the print job if transition to
When the direct operation is detected, a transition is made to the standby state if the detected time is in the sleep state, and a second transition is recorded if the transition is made from the sleep state to the print state. Control steps;
When one print job is canceled and another print job is not waiting, if the canceled time is during the transition from the sleep state to the print state, the fact that the detection has been detected is further displayed. An image forming program that causes a third transition control step to shift to a standby state when recording is performed and to shift to a sleep state when recording is not performed.

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