JP5422512B2 - Electric equipment and power supply control method - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention belongs to a technical field of an electrical apparatus such as an image forming apparatus or a personal computer that forms an image on a recording medium, and in particular, a normal power mode for supplying power to each part of the electrical apparatus, and the normal power mode. The present invention relates to a technology for switching each power mode in an electric device having a power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supply compared to the above.

  In addition to the normal power mode that supplies power to each part of the electrical device as a technology for power saving in an image forming apparatus that forms an image on a recording medium such as a copying machine or a facsimile or an electrical device such as a personal computer. A power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied to each unit is provided, and when no operation is performed on the electric device for a predetermined time, or an instruction to switch to the power saving mode is input to the electric device. In such a case, a technique for switching the power supply mode of the electric device from the normal power mode to the power saving mode is widely adopted.

  For example, Patent Document 1 below includes a storage unit that stores a non-printing fixing temperature (standby state) in an image forming apparatus. As the elapsed time during non-printing increases, the fixing temperature at which an image can be formed is increased. A technique is described in which a standby state capable of suppressing power consumption is long selected from the storage means in order, although the required time to reach is long.

JP 2000-227739 A

  For example, it is considered that there is little advantage of maintaining the fixing temperature to some extent for users who do not make much use of the execution of the printing function provided in the image forming apparatus, such as copying only a few sheets every long period of time, Even if it takes a relatively long time to increase the fixing temperature when using a printing function with a low frequency, it is considered that the advantage of reducing the power consumption by reducing the power supply for maintaining the fixing temperature is high.

  However, in Patent Document 1, since the standby state corresponding to the elapsed time during non-printing is sequentially selected from the storage unit, the image forming apparatus may not be used for a long period after being used for a short period. Even when the operation is repeated, power is consumed not only by the standby state sequentially selected until the long period of time elapses. In other words, there is room for improvement in reducing power consumption in electrical equipment.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide an electric device and a power supply control method capable of further reducing power consumption according to usage conditions.

The invention according to claim 1 is an electric device capable of switching a plurality of power supply modes,
The plurality of power supply modes include a normal power mode for supplying power to each part of the electrical device, a first power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied compared to the normal power mode, and the first A second power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied compared to the first power saving mode,
A power supply control unit that switches the power supply mode between the normal power mode, the first power saving mode, and the second power saving mode;
A time measuring unit that starts a time measuring operation when execution of the operation of the electric device based on an operation performed on the electric device is completed in a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode. When,
An operation instruction receiving unit that receives an operation instruction for the electric device;
In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, a first measurement time set by the time measuring unit is set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. When the standby time is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit When the measurement time by the time measurement unit reaches a second standby time set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device, the power supply control unit switches to the second power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit An instruction for operation on the electrical equipment is accepted I, a switching control unit for instructing switching from the power the supply controller first power saving mode or the second power saving mode to the normal power mode,
With
The switching control unit further instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after the electric device is set to the second power saving mode. When the power condition and the normal power mode satisfy the usage condition indicating a tendency more than instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after being set to the other power supply mode, In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, the measurement time by the time measuring unit is not received by the operation instruction receiving unit by the operation instruction receiving unit, and the first waiting time is measured. Is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode, and the power instruction is received by the operation instruction receiving unit. Total supply of power that can be supplied during a period from when the time measured by the time measuring unit reaches the first standby time until the second standby time is reached without receiving an operation instruction to the device An electric device that instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the third power saving mode, which is the power supply mode, whose amount is smaller than the total amount of power that can be supplied in the first power saving mode during the same period It is.

The invention according to claim 9 is an electric device capable of switching a plurality of power supply modes, wherein the plurality of power supply modes include a normal power mode for supplying power to each part of the electric device. And a first power saving mode that reduces the amount of power supplied compared to the normal power mode, and a second power saving mode that reduces the amount of power supplied compared to the first power saving mode. A power supply control unit that switches the power supply mode between the normal power mode, the first power saving mode, and the second power saving mode, and an operation instruction that receives an operation instruction for the electric device. A power supply control method in an electrical device including a reception unit,
A time measuring step of starting a time measuring operation when the execution of the operation of the electric device based on an operation performed on the electric device is completed in a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode. When,
In a state where the electric device is set in the normal power mode, a first measurement time set in advance by the time measurement step is set without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. When the standby time is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit When the measurement time in the time measurement step reaches a second standby time set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device, the power supply control unit switches to the second power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode. A switching control step for instructing the power supply control unit to switch from the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode to the normal power mode when an instruction to operate the electrical device is received by the display receiving unit; ,
Run
In the switching control step, the electrical device has instructed the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after the electrical device has been set to the second power saving mode, and the electrical device has instructed the second power saving mode. When the power condition and the normal power mode satisfy the usage condition indicating a tendency more than instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after being set to the other power supply mode, In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, the measurement time in the time measuring step is not received by the operation instruction accepting unit by the operation instruction accepting unit, and the first standby time is measured. The operation instruction receiving unit instead of instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the first power saving mode. Therefore, electric power that can be supplied during a period from when the measurement time in the time measurement step reaches the first standby time until the second standby time is reached without receiving an operation instruction for the electrical device. The power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode, which is the power supply mode, that is less than the total amount of power that can be supplied in the first power saving mode during the same period. This is a power supply control method.

In these inventions, the electrical control device (switching control step) instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after the electrical device is set to the second power saving mode. It is determined whether or not the second power saving mode and the normal power mode satisfy a condition indicating a tendency more than that the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the normal power mode after being set to another power supply mode. Is done.

Then, after the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the normal power mode, and the electric device is different from the second power saving mode and the normal power mode . In a situation where it is determined that the power supply control unit tends to have more tendency than the power supply control unit having been instructed to switch to the normal power mode after being set to the power supply mode, the switching control unit (switching control step) performs normal power Instead of switching from the mode to the first power saving mode, the measurement time by the time measurement unit (time measurement step) is changed to the first standby time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction reception unit. The total amount of power that can be supplied during the period from when the second standby time is reached until the second standby time is reached is the total amount of power that can be supplied in the first power saving mode during the same period. Is controlled to switch to the third power saving mode is a lower power supply mode than the amount.

In other words, after the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the electric power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the normal power mode, and the electric device is different from the second power saving mode and the normal power mode . If the power supply control unit tends to be more frequent than the power supply control unit that has been instructed to switch to the normal power mode after the power supply mode has been set, the electric power supply during the period until the predetermined second standby time is reached Since it is considered that the necessity of setting the device in the first power saving mode is low, by switching the electric device to the third power saving mode during the period, the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode during the period. Compared with the case of switching to the power mode, the power supplied to each part of the electric device can be reduced.

The invention according to claim 2 is the electrical device according to claim 1, wherein the use condition is determined by the switching control unit from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. The cumulative frequency instructing switching to is higher than the cumulative frequency in which the switching control unit instructs the power supply control unit to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode. It is.

  In the present invention, the cumulative frequency at which the power supply control unit is instructed to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode indicates that the power supply control unit switches from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode. Is switched to the third power saving mode from the normal power mode instead of switching from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode. The

  That is, the cumulative frequency at which switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is instructed based on the cumulative frequency when the electric device has been used in the past is the normal power from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. When the frequency is higher than the cumulative frequency instructed to switch to the mode, it can be determined that the electric device tends to be used after being set to the second power saving mode.

  And when such a judgment is made, since it is considered that it is less necessary to set the electrical device in the first power saving mode for a period until reaching a preset standby time, By switching the electric device to the third power saving mode, the electric power supplied to each part of the electric device is reduced as compared with the case where the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode during the period. Can do.

The invention according to claim 3 is the electrical apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the use condition is determined by the switching control unit from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. The average value of the elapsed time from when the electric device is switched to the second power saving mode when the switch is instructed to switch to the normal power mode is calculated by the switching control unit as the power supply control unit. When the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode when switching to the normal power mode from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode is instructed It is larger than the average value of the elapsed time until switching to the normal power mode.

  In this invention, the average value of the elapsed time from when the electric device is switched to the second power saving mode to when the electric device is switched to the normal power mode is set to the electric power device in the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. When the switching control unit switches from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode, the switching control unit switches from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode when the switching time is larger than the average value of the elapsed time from the time of switching to the normal power mode. It is controlled to switch to the 3 power saving mode.

  That is, based on the average value of the elapsed time from when the first power saving mode, the second power saving mode, and the third power saving mode were switched to the normal power mode when the electric device was used in the past. The average value of the period when the electric device is set in the second power saving mode is longer than the average value of the period when the electric device is set in the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. Accordingly, it can be determined that the electric device tends to be used after being set to the second power saving mode.

  And when such a judgment is made, since it is considered that it is less necessary to set the electrical device in the first power saving mode for a period until reaching a preset standby time, By switching the electric device to the third power saving mode, the electric power supplied to each part of the electric device is reduced as compared with the case where the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode during the period. Can do.

The invention according to claim 4 is the electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the power supply control unit switches from the switching control unit to the third power saving mode. When instructed, the operation instruction accepting unit accepts an operation instruction for the electric device without receiving an instruction for the operation, and the first measurement time until the second waiting time is reached by the time measurement unit, Electric power is supplied to each part of the electrical device at a preset constant supply amount that is less than the power supply amount in the power saving mode and greater than the power supply amount in the second power saving mode.

In this invention, when the electric device is switched to the third power saving mode, the measurement time by the time measuring unit reaches the second standby time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. All the periods until the power supply amount in the first power saving mode is less than the power supply amount in the second power saving mode and is greater than the power supply amount in the second power saving mode. Since electric power is supplied, the electric power supplied to each part of the electric device can be reduced as compared with the case where the entire period is switched to the first power saving mode.

Further, the invention according to claim 5 is the electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the power supply control unit performs switching from the switching control unit to the third power saving mode. When instructed, the first half of all the periods until the measurement time by the time measurement unit reaches the second standby time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. For each part of the electric device with a supply amount equal to the supply amount of power in the first power saving mode and a supply amount equal to the supply amount of power in the second power saving mode for the second half period Supply power.

In this invention, when the electric device is switched to the third power saving mode, the measurement time by the time measuring unit reaches the second standby time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. Of all the periods until, the first half period is a supply amount equal to the power supply amount in the first power saving mode, and the second half period is a supply amount equal to the power supply amount in the second power saving mode, Since power is supplied to each part of the electrical device, the power supplied to each part of the electrical device can be reduced as compared with the case where the first power saving mode is switched to all the periods. it can.

The invention according to claim 6 is the electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein the power supply control unit switches from the switching control unit to the third power saving mode. When instructed, a predetermined number of periods until the measurement time by the time measurement unit reaches the second waiting time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. Power supply in the second power saving mode that is less than or equal to the amount of power supplied in the first power saving mode and is preset to decrease every time the divided period elapses. Electric power is supplied to each part of the electric device with a supply amount that is greater than or equal to the amount.

In this invention, when the electric device is switched to the third power saving mode, the measurement time by the time measuring unit reaches the second standby time without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. Is divided into a predetermined number of periods, and is less than or equal to the power supply amount in the first power saving mode, which is set in advance so as to decrease every time the divided period elapses. Since power is supplied to each part of the electrical device with a supply amount that is equal to or greater than the supply amount of power in the power saving mode, compared to the case where all are switched to the first power saving mode during the period, The electric power supplied to each part of the electrical equipment can be reduced stepwise as time passes.

The invention according to claim 7 is the electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 ,
When the operation instruction receiving unit receives an operation instruction for the electric device in a state where the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the switching control unit causes the power supply control unit to Instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the first power saving mode instead of switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode,
The time measuring unit starts a time measuring operation when the electric device is set to the first power-off mode according to the instruction from the switching control unit,
The switching control unit is further configured so that an operation instruction for the electric device is not received by the operation instruction receiving unit in a state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode by the instruction. When the time measured by the time measuring unit reaches a preset standby time, the switching to the second power saving mode is instructed, and when the operation instruction receiving unit receives an operation instruction for the electric device, the power The supply control unit is instructed to switch to the normal power mode.

  Conventionally, when the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, for example, when the electric device collides with the electric device and passes through the vicinity of the electric device, the electric device is mistakenly operated. When operated, the electric device is switched to the normal power mode, and power is supplied to each part in the normal power mode until the standby time elapses.

  However, in the present invention, when the electric device is erroneously operated in a state where the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode by the switching control unit, and the time The time measurement operation is started from the time when the measurement unit switches to the first power saving mode.

  Furthermore, in a state where the electrical device is set to the first power saving mode by the switching instruction, the measurement time by the time measuring unit is set to a standby time set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electrical device. When it reaches, the switching control unit instructs to switch to the second power saving mode.

  Therefore, as described above, even if the electric device is erroneously operated in a state where the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode, and the standby time is set. Since power is supplied to each part in the first power saving mode until the time has elapsed, the amount of power supply is reduced compared to the case of switching to the normal power mode when an electrical device is erroneously operated as described above. can do.

The invention according to claim 8 is the electrical apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the switching control unit is preset for each preset time zone. The power supply control unit is instructed to switch the power supply mode according to the second standby time and the use condition.

In the present invention, for example, when the frequency of using an electrical device such as midnight or early morning is low, the first and second standby times in the time zone are set to be small in advance, or the usage conditions are relaxed. If the switching control unit frequently instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the third power saving mode, and the frequency of using electric devices such as daytime and evening is high, The power supply control unit is not frequently instructed to switch to the third power saving mode by setting the first and second standby times in the time zone to be large in advance or by strengthening the usage conditions. Can be. For this reason, it is possible to flexibly reduce the amount of power supplied according to the usage status of the electrical equipment for each time period.

  ADVANTAGE OF THE INVENTION According to this invention, it becomes possible to provide the electric equipment and power supply control method which can aim at the further power saving according to a use condition.

Sectional drawing of the multifunctional machine as an example of the electric equipment which concerns on this invention. The front view of a user interface part. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the multifunction machine. Explanatory drawing which shows the 1st example of transition of the power consumption in each electric power supply mode. The flowchart which shows the 1st example of operation | movement of switching control of electric power supply mode. The flowchart which shows the 2nd example of operation | movement of switching control of electric power supply mode. The flowchart which shows the 3rd example of operation | movement of switching control of electric power supply mode. Explanatory drawing which shows the 2nd example of transition of the power consumption in each electric power supply mode. Explanatory drawing which shows the 3rd example of transition of the power consumption in each electric power supply mode.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of an electric apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following embodiments, as an example of an electric apparatus according to the present invention, a form that is integrated into a multifunction peripheral that is an image forming apparatus having functions such as a color copy, a scanner, a facsimile, and a printer will be described. FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view of the multifunction machine.

  The multifunction machine 1 includes an image reading unit 2, an apparatus main body 3, and a stack tray 6 disposed on the left side of the apparatus main body 3.

  The image reading unit 2 includes a document feeding unit 21, a scanner unit 22, a CIS 231, and a user interface unit 5.

  The document feeder 21 includes an ADF (Automatic Document Feeder), and includes a document tray 211, a pickup roller 212, a platen 213, a paper discharge roller 214, and a paper discharge tray 215.

  A document to be read is placed on the document tray 211. Documents placed on the document tray 211 are picked up one by one by the pickup roller 212 and sequentially conveyed to the platen 213 through the gap. Documents that have passed through the platen 213 are sequentially discharged to the discharge tray 215 by the discharge rollers 214.

  Of the positions facing the peripheral surface of the platen 213, a timing sensor (not shown) for detecting paper is installed at a predetermined position before the reading position P in the document transport direction. Based on the output signal, the conveyance timing of the document to the reading position P is achieved. The timing sensor is configured by, for example, a photo interrupter.

  The scanner unit 22 optically reads an image of a document and generates image data. The scanner unit 22 includes a glass 221, a light source 222, a first mirror 223, a second mirror 224, a third mirror 225, a first carriage 226, a second carriage 227, an imaging lens 228, and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 229. The light source 222 and the first mirror 223 are supported by the first carriage 226, and the second mirror 224 and the third mirror 225 are supported by the second carriage 227.

  A white fluorescent lamp such as a cold cathode fluorescent tube is used as the light source 222. The scanner unit 22 includes a first mirror 223, a second mirror 224, a third mirror 225, a first carriage 226, a second carriage 227, and an imaging lens. By 228, the light from the original is guided to the CCD 229.

  The document reading method of the image reading unit 2 includes a flatbed reading mode in which the scanner unit 22 reads a document placed on the glass 221 and a document by the document feeding unit 21 (ADF). There is an ADF reading mode.

  In the flatbed reading mode, the light source 222 irradiates a document placed on the glass 221, and reflected light for one line in the main scanning direction is reflected in the order of the first mirror 223, the second mirror 224, and the third mirror 225. Then, the light enters the imaging lens 228. The light incident on the imaging lens 228 is imaged on the light receiving surface of the CCD 229.

  The CCD 229 is a one-dimensional image sensor and simultaneously processes image data of a document for one line. The first carriage 226 and the second carriage 227 are configured to be movable in a direction orthogonal to the main scanning direction (sub-scanning direction, arrow Y direction). When reading for one line is completed, the first carriage 226 and the second carriage 227 are moved in the sub-scanning direction. The first carriage 226 and the second carriage 227 move, and the next line is read.

  In the ADF reading mode, the document feeder 21 takes in the documents placed on the document tray 211 one by one by the pickup roller 212. At this time, the first carriage 226 and the second carriage 227 are disposed at a predetermined reading position P located below the reading window 230.

When the document is transported by the document feeder 21, when the document passes over the reading window 230 provided in the transport path from the platen 213 to the paper discharge tray 215, the light source 222 irradiates the document, and the main scanning one line. The reflected light is reflected in the order of the first mirror 223, the second mirror 224, and the third mirror 225 and enters the imaging lens 228. The light incident on the imaging lens 228 is imaged on the light receiving surface of the CCD 229. Subsequently, the document is conveyed by the document feeder 21 and the next line is read.

  Further, the document feeder 21 includes a document reversing mechanism including a switching guide 216, a reversing roller 217, and a reversing conveyance path 218. This document reversing mechanism reverses the front and back of the original whose surface has been read by the first ADF reading and transports it again to the reading window 230, whereby the CCD 229 reads the back side again.

  This document reversing mechanism operates only when reading both sides, and does not operate when reading one side. After reading the back side during single-sided reading and double-sided reading, the switching guide 216 is switched to the upper side, and the document that has passed through the platen 213 is discharged to the discharge tray 215 by the discharge roller 214.

  After the front side reading at the time of double-sided reading, the switching guide 216 is switched to the lower side, and the document that has passed through the platen 213 is transported to the reverse transport path 218 by the reverse roller 217. Thereafter, the switching guide 216 is switched upward, and the reverse roller 217 rotates in the reverse direction to re-feed the document to the platen 213. Hereinafter, a mode in which both sides of a document are read using the document reversing mechanism is referred to as a double-sided reversal reading mode.

  Further, in the ADF reading mode, the image reading unit 2 can cause the CIS 231 to read the back side of the document substantially simultaneously with the CCD 229 reading the surface of the document while the document is being conveyed. In this case, the surface of the document conveyed from the document tray 211 by the document feeder 21 is read by the CCD 229 when passing through the reading window 230, and the back surface is read when passing through the location where the CIS 231 is arranged. In the CIS 231, RGB three-color LEDs or the like are used as light sources.

  By using the CCD 229 and the CIS 231 in this way, it is possible to read both the front and back sides of a document by a single document transport operation (one pass) from the document tray 211 to the paper discharge tray 215 by the document feeder 21. Hereinafter, a mode in which both sides of a document are read using the CCD 229 and the CIS 231 in this way is referred to as a double-sided simultaneous reading mode.

  The above double-sided reverse reading mode and double-sided simultaneous reading mode are provided as reading modes when performing double-sided reading of a document using the ADF reading mode. The double-sided reverse reading mode is used when you want to match the image quality of both-side printed images, while the double-sided simultaneous reading mode gives priority to shortening the reading time even if there is a difference in the image quality of both-side printed images Used in cases.

  Note that the MFP 1 in this embodiment is initially set to the double-sided simultaneous reading mode, and when an image formation instruction is input without performing any mode setting operation in the reading mode, the double-sided simultaneous reading mode is set. Thus, the image reading operation of the document is performed.

  The apparatus main body 3 includes a plurality of paper feed cassettes 461, a paper feed roller 462 that feeds recording paper from the paper feed cassette 461 one by one and transports it to the image forming unit 40, and a recording paper transported from the paper feed cassette 461. And an image forming unit 40 for forming an image. The apparatus body 3 also includes a paper feed tray 471 and a feed roller 472 that feeds the originals placed on the paper feed tray 471 one by one toward the image forming unit 40.

  The image forming unit 40 includes a charge eliminating device 421 that removes residual charges from the surface of the photosensitive drum 43, a charging device 422 that charges the surface of the photosensitive drum 43 after charge removal, and image data acquired by the scanner unit 22. Based on the electrostatic latent image, an exposure device 423 that outputs a laser beam to expose the surface of the photosensitive drum 43 to form an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 43. Above, developing devices 44K, 44Y, 44M, and 44C that form toner images of cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K), and various colors formed on the photosensitive drum 43. A transfer drum 49 on which the toner image is transferred and superimposed, a transfer device 41 for transferring the toner image on the transfer drum 49 to the recording paper, and the recording paper on which the toner image has been transferred at a predetermined fixing temperature. In the heating and fixing device 45 for fixing the toner image on the recording sheet, and a, a conveying roller 463 and 464 for conveying the recording sheet having passed through the image forming unit 40 to the stack tray 6 or discharge tray 48.

  The fixing device 45 includes a fixing roller 451, a pressure roller 452, and a temperature sensor 453.

  The fixing roller 451 includes a heater (not shown) made of a halogen heater, for example, and is configured to be heated from the inside by the heater. Electric power is supplied to the heater from an AC power source under the control of a control unit 61 (FIG. 3), which will be described later, and the heating degree of the fixing roller 451 is adjusted according to the supply amount of the electric power.

  The pressure roller 452 is pressed toward the fixing roller 451 by a drive mechanism (not shown), and thereby, between the fixing roller 451 and the pressure roller 452, along the rotation axes of the fixing roller 451 and the pressure roller 452. Thus, a band-shaped nip portion is formed. Then, when the recording paper passes through the nip portion, the recording paper is heated and pressurized, and the toner image is fixed (heat fixing) on the recording paper.

  The temperature sensor 453 measures the temperature (fixing temperature) of the fixing roller 451 and outputs the measured fixing temperature to the control unit 61 (see FIG. 3) described later.

  When forming images on both sides of the recording paper, the image forming unit 40 forms an image on one side of the recording paper, and then the recording paper is nipped by the conveyance roller 463 on the discharge tray 48 side. To do. In this state, the conveyance roller 463 is reversed to switch back the recording paper, and the recording paper is sent to the paper conveyance path L and conveyed again to the upstream area of the image forming unit 40, and an image is formed on the other surface by the image forming unit 40. After the formation, the recording paper is discharged to the stack tray 6 or the discharge tray 48.

  Further, in front of the apparatus main body 3, a display unit 51 that allows a user to visually recognize an operation screen and various messages, and a user interface unit 5 having operation buttons for inputting various operation commands are provided. Yes.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the user interface unit 5 includes a display unit 51, a touch panel 52, a numeric key group 53, various operation buttons 54 to 57, a function selection button 58, and the like.

  The display unit 51 is configured by an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display), an ELD (Electronic Luminescent Display), or the like, and displays an operation guidance screen for the user such as paper size selection, magnification selection, density selection, and the like. The display unit 51 is formed integrally with the touch panel 52. The touch panel 52 detects a touch position when a touch operation is performed by the user, and outputs a detection signal indicating the touch position to a control unit 61 (see FIG. 3) described later.

  The numeric key group 53 is for inputting, for example, the number of copies when operating the copy function of the multifunction machine 1 and the telephone number of the transmission destination when operating the facsimile function. The power saving button 54 is a button for setting the multifunction machine 1 in a power saving (low power) mode. The start button 55 is a button for starting a copy operation or a scanner operation, and the stop / clear button 56 is a button for stopping the copy operation or the scanner operation or canceling an input operation. The reset button 57 is a button for setting the display of the display unit 51 and various settings to an initial state or a standard operation state. The function selection button 58 is a button for setting a copy function, a printer function, a scanner function, and a facsimile function.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the multifunction machine 1. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same part as each part shown in FIG. 1, FIG. 2, and the description is abbreviate | omitted. The multi-function device 1 includes a document feeding unit 21, a scanner unit 22, a CIS 231, a user interface unit 5, an image forming unit 40, a communication unit 66, a storage unit 67, and a control unit 61.

  The document feeder 21 automatically reads a document placed on the document tray 211 when the document is copied or scanned in the ADF reading mode, and can read the document by the CCD 229 or the CIS 231. To be conveyed. The scanner unit 22 and the CIS 231 correspond to the scanner unit 22 and the CIS 231 shown in FIGS.

  The user interface unit 5 corresponds to the user interface unit 5 shown in FIG. 1, and is used by a user to perform operations related to a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, a scanner function, and the like. (Command) and the like are given to the control unit 61.

  The image forming unit 40 forms an image on recording paper based on image data obtained by the scanner unit 22 or the CIS 231 or image data transferred from a personal computer, a facsimile machine or the like via the communication unit 66. .

  The communication unit 66 transmits / receives various data to / from an external device such as a computer or a facsimile device connected via a network using a network interface (not shown).

  The storage unit 67 stores the image data obtained by the reading operation of the scanner unit 22 and the CIS 231, the image data processed by the control unit 61, and the destination of the short button registration when performing facsimile communication. It has a storage unit that stores names, facsimile numbers, or IP addresses of transmission destinations when used as a network scanner, and a storage unit that stores operation control programs for each unit. It is what.

  The control unit 61 controls the overall operation of the multifunction machine 1 and includes a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like.

  The control unit 61 executes processing based on an operation control program stored in a ROM (not shown) or the storage unit 67 in accordance with various instruction signals input to the user interface unit 5 from the user, The MFP 1 is centrally controlled by outputting an instruction signal, transferring data, and the like to the units (the document feeding unit 21, the scanner unit 22, the CIS 231, the user interface unit 5, the image forming unit 40, and the communication unit 66). . That is, the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 constitute an example of an operation instruction receiving unit of the present invention that receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1.

  The user interface unit 5 includes a sleep transition time input unit 56, and the control unit 61 has functions as a temperature control unit 611, a power supply control unit 612, and a switching control unit 613.

  The temperature control unit 611 controls on / off of a switch provided on a power supply line connected to a heater inside the fixing roller 451 according to the fixing temperature of the fixing roller 451 output from the temperature sensor 453 provided in the fixing device 45. As a result, the amount of electric power supplied to the heater is adjusted, and temperature control of the fixing temperature of the fixing roller 451 is performed.

  The power supply control unit 612 switches the power supply mode of the multifunction device 1, and the switch control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch the power supply mode.

  The multifunction device 1 has a normal power mode for supplying power to each unit including the image forming unit 40 as a power supply mode, and a fixing temperature (for example, 180 to 200 ° C.) in which the temperature of the fixing roller 451 is set in advance. A lower temperature (for example, 100 ° C.) or the like, and a first power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied compared to the normal power mode; for example, heating of the fixing roller 451 is stopped; A second power saving in which the temperature of the fixing roller 451 is set to a lower temperature (for example, 50 to 80 ° C.) than the first power saving mode, and the amount of power supply is reduced compared to the first power saving mode. A power mode, and, as will be described later, a third power saving that reduces the amount of power supplied compared to the first power saving mode but has a larger amount of power supplied than the second power saving mode. A mode is provided.

  The power supply control unit 612 controls an AC / DC converter and a DC / DC converter (not shown) to supply AC power supplied from an AC power source and DC power generated by converting the AC power. Is adjusted to a preset supply amount corresponding to the power supply mode instructed from the switching control unit 613. As a result, the multifunction device 1 is set (shifted) to the instructed power supply mode.

  The switching control unit 613 is an elapsed time from the end of the execution of the operation of the multifunction device 1 based on the operation performed on the multifunction device 1 in a state where the multifunction device 1 is set to the normal power mode. For example, when the power saving button 54 (see FIG. 2) provided in the user interface unit 5 is pressed, or the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 operate the multifunction device 1. If the measurement time by the timer 613a reaches a waiting time to be described later without receiving the instruction, the power supply mode is changed from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode, or from the first power saving mode to the second power saving mode. An instruction to switch to the power supply control unit 612 is output.

  In addition, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 by the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 in a state where the multifunction device 1 is set to the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode. And an instruction to switch the power supply mode from the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is output to the power supply control unit 612.

  The sleep transition time input unit 56 uses the switching control unit 613 to switch from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode at a timing corresponding to the time (standby time) that has elapsed without receiving an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1. In order to output an instruction to switch from the first power saving mode to the second power saving mode to the power supply control unit 612, an input for setting the standby time is performed.

  The sleep transition time input unit 56 includes a display unit 51, a touch panel 52, and a numeric key group 53. For example, as shown in FIG. 2, when the standby time T1 (for example, 60 seconds) has passed without any operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 being received, the switching control unit 613 switches the power supply mode from the normal power mode. When the standby time T2 (for example, 300 seconds) elapses without switching to the first power saving mode and no operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 being accepted, the switching control unit 613 sets the power supply mode to the first power saving mode. In order to be able to switch from the mode to the second power saving mode, the control unit 61 displays a setting screen for the standby times T1 and T2 as the sleep transition time input unit 56 on the display unit 51.

  On the setting screen for the waiting times T1 and T2, the default values (arrow A) for the waiting times T1 and T2 and the changed waiting time (arrow B) are displayed. Then, by touching the display area indicated by the arrow B and displaying a cursor (not shown) in the display area, the desired standby times T1 and T2 are input numerically using the numeric key group 53, thereby waiting. Time T1, T2 is changed to that time.

  Note that the default values (arrows A) for the standby times T1 and T2 are stored in advance in a ROM or the like provided in the storage unit 67 or the control unit 61 at the time of product shipment, and the standby time T1 changed on the setting screen. , T2 are stored by the control unit 61 in a storage unit 67, a RAM provided in the control unit 61, or the like.

  When the standby times T1 and T2 are not changed, the switching control unit 613 outputs a power supply mode switching instruction to the power supply control unit 612 based on the default value of the standby time, and the standby times T1 and T2 Is changed, a power supply mode switching instruction is output to the power supply control unit 612 based on the standby times T1 and T2 after the change.

  The switching control unit 613 further satisfies a condition indicating that there is a high probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode when the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the normal power mode. In this case, the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch from the normal power mode to the third power saving mode instead of switching from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode.

  As a condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high, for example, the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 more than a preset number of times. Whether to instruct switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is set (hereinafter, the condition is referred to as “first predetermined condition”).

  The preset number of times is stored in advance in a ROM or the like provided in the storage unit 67 or the control unit 61 at the time of product shipment. The number of times set in advance is not limited to this, and the setting screen of the number of times set in advance by the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 is displayed on the display unit 51 in the same manner as the waiting times T1 and T2. The number of times input on the setting screen may be stored in a RAM or the like provided in the storage unit 67 or the control unit 61.

  When the condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high, such as the first predetermined condition, for example, the switching control unit 613 performs normal The power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch from the normal power mode to the third power saving mode (solid line portion in the drawing) instead of switching from the power mode to the first power saving mode (dotted line portion in the drawing). .

  Here, as shown in FIG. 4, the power supply control unit 612 starts from the normal power mode when the measurement time by the timer 613 a is not received by the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 without receiving an instruction to operate the multifunction device 1. When the standby time T1 set in advance when instructing to switch to the power saving mode has elapsed, the condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high is satisfied. As a result, when the switching control unit 613 is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode, the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 receive the operation time for the multifunction device 1 without receiving the operation time for the multifunction device 1. A preset waiting time when instructing switching from the first power saving mode to the second power saving mode. All periods until the time T2 is reached (periods from T1 to T2 in the figure) are less than the power supply amount P1 in the first power saving mode and larger than the power supply amount P2 in the second power saving mode. Electric power is supplied to each part of the multi-function device 1 with a predetermined constant supply amount P3.

  Hereinafter, the operation of switching control of the power supply mode will be described with reference to FIG.

  When the MFP 1 is turned on, the switching control unit 613 outputs an instruction to switch to the normal power mode to the power supply control unit 612, and the power supply control unit 612 sets the power supply mode to the normal power mode according to the instruction. The power mode is set (S1).

  In step S1, when the multifunction device 1 is set to the normal power mode and the execution of the operation of the multifunction device 1 based on the operation performed on the multifunction device 1 is completed, the timer 613a Time measuring operation is started (S2, time measuring step).

  For example, when an operation related to the image forming operation is received via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61, the image forming operation received by the operation is finished, and the recording paper is transferred to the stack tray 6 or the discharge tray 48. At the time of discharging, the timer 613a starts measuring time.

  The switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 by the time measured by the timer 613a reaches the standby time T1 (S4; YES) (S3; YES), the process of step S1 is executed.

  On the other hand, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S3; NO), and when the measurement time by the timer 613a reaches the standby time T1 ( S4; YES), whether or not the continuous return count C indicating the number of times the multifunction device 1 has been continuously switched from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is set to a value equal to or greater than the preset number. Is determined (S5). The continuous return count C is read and written via the RAM in each processing step shown in FIG.

  Here, when the switching control unit 613 determines that the continuous return count C is set to a value equal to or greater than the preset count (S5; YES), the normal power mode is switched to the third power saving mode. In response to the instruction, the power supply control unit 612 is less than the power supply amount P1 in the first power saving mode and is in response to the instruction, as shown in FIG. Electric power is supplied to each part of the multi-function device 1 at a predetermined constant supply amount P3 that is larger than the power supply amount P2 in the power mode. Thereby, the multifunction device 1 is set (shifted) to the third power saving mode (S6).

  On the other hand, when the switching control unit 613 determines that the continuous return count C is not set to a value equal to or greater than the preset count (S5; NO), the switching from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode is performed. The switching is instructed to the power supply control unit 612 (S7).

  Subsequently, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 through the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 by the time measured by the timer 613a reaches the standby time T2 (S10; YES). (S8; YES), in order to shift the multi-function device 1 from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode, the continuous return count C is cleared (S9), and the processing returns to step S1.

  Note that the method by which the switching control unit 613 clears the continuous return count C in step S9 is not limited to a specific method. For example, the switching control unit 613 erases the continuous return count C written in the RAM. Or, the switching control unit 613 stores a fixed value (for example, 0) indicating that the continuous return count C is cleared in a preset address area of the RAM for storing the continuous return count C, etc. You may comprise as a design matter suitably.

  On the other hand, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S8; NO), and when the measurement time by the timer 613a reaches the standby time T2 ( S10; YES), an instruction to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the second power saving mode is output to the power supply control unit 612, and the power supply control unit 612 responds to the instruction by the power supply mode. Is switched to the second power saving mode (S11).

  In this way, the switching control unit 613 maintains the multifunction device 1 in the second power saving mode until an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 is received via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S12). NO). On the other hand, when the multifunction device 1 is set to the second power saving mode, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S12; YES), the cumulative return count C is incremented by 1 (S13), and the process returns to step S1.

  That is, an example of the switching control step according to the present invention is configured by the processing of step S1 and steps S3 to S13.

  In other words, according to the above configuration, the multifunction device 1 is switched from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode by the switching control unit 613 (switching control step) for a predetermined number of times or more. Therefore, it is determined that the recent usage status of the multifunction device 1 tends to be used after being set to the second power saving mode.

  If such a determination is made, the MFP 1 is set to the first power saving mode for a period until reaching a preset standby time T2 (a period from T1 to T2 in FIG. 4). Since it is considered that the necessity is low, the switching control unit 613 (switching control step) instructs the multifunction device 1 to switch to the third power saving mode.

  When the multifunction device 1 is switched to the third power saving mode, the power supply amount in the second power saving mode is less than the power supply amount (P1 in FIG. 4) in the first power saving mode (in FIG. 4). Since electric power is supplied to each part of the multi-function device 1 with a preset constant supply amount (P3 in FIG. 4) that is larger than P2), all the periods (periods from T1 to T2 in FIG. 4) Compared with the case where the multifunction device 1 is switched to the first power saving mode, the power supplied to each part of the multifunction device can be reduced by the amount of supply corresponding to the hatched rectangular area in FIG.

  When the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch to the normal power mode, the condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high. It is not intended to limit the conditions described in the above embodiment.

  For example, as a condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high, the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. Even if the cumulative frequency at which switching is instructed is higher than the cumulative frequency at which the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode. Good (hereinafter, this condition is referred to as “second predetermined condition”).

  This configuration can be realized by changing step S5, step S9, and step S13 in FIG. 5 to step S21, step S22, and step S23 described later, respectively, as shown in FIG.

  Specifically, in the present configuration, when the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode (S8; YES), The first return count C1 indicating the cumulative frequency instructed to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode is incremented by 1 (S22). Similarly, from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. When switching to the power supply control unit 612 is instructed (S12; YES), the second return count C2 indicating the cumulative frequency instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is incremented by 1 (S23). ) And can be realized.

  In accordance with this, in this configuration, the switching control unit 613 performs measurement by the timer 613a without receiving an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S3; NO). When the time reaches the waiting time T1 (S4; YES), it is determined whether or not the second return number C2 is equal to or greater than the first return number C1 (S21), and the second return number C2 is the first return number C1. If this is the case (S21; YES), the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode (S6). If the second return count C2 is less than the first return count C1 (S21) NO), the power supply control unit 612 can be configured and instructed to switch to the first power saving mode (S7). The first return number C1 and the second return number C2 are read and written via the RAM in each processing step shown in FIG.

  According to this configuration, the cumulative frequency at which the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is determined by the power supply control unit 612 from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. When the switching to the normal power mode is higher than the instructed cumulative frequency, the switching control unit 613 switches from the normal power mode to the third power saving mode instead of switching from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode. Controlled to switch.

  That is, based on the cumulative frequency when the MFP 1 has been used in the past, the cumulative frequency at which switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is instructed is normal from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. When the frequency is higher than the cumulative frequency instructed to switch to the power mode, it can be determined that the MFP 1 tends to be used after being set to the second power saving mode.

  Further, as a condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is high, the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. When the switching is instructed, the average value of the elapsed time from when the multifunction device 1 is switched to the second power saving mode until it is switched to the normal power mode is indicated by the switching control unit 613 to the power supply control unit 612. Progress from when the multifunction device 1 is switched to the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode when switching from the power mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode is instructed. It may be set whether the time is larger than the average value (hereinafter, the condition is referred to as “third predetermined condition”).

  This configuration can be realized by changing step S5, step S9, and step S13 in FIG. 5 to step S31, step S32, and step S33 described later, respectively, as shown in FIG.

  Specifically, in the present configuration, when the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode (S8; YES), A first average return time R1 indicating an average value of the elapsed time from when the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode is switched to when switching to the normal power mode is calculated (S32), and the second power saving mode is calculated. When the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the normal power mode (S12; YES), the average value of the elapsed time from when the second power saving mode is switched to when the normal power mode is switched is shown. The second average return time R2 can be calculated and realized (S33).

  The first average return time R1 and the second average return time R2 are read and written via the RAM in each processing step shown in FIG. Further, the first average return time R1 and the second average return time R2 are, for example, instructed by the switching control unit 613 to operate the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 in step S8 and step S12. Is configured to cumulatively add the measurement time measured by the timer 613a at each step at the time when is received, and write it to the RAM in association with the cumulative frequency at which the cumulative addition at each step is executed, It can be calculated by dividing the cumulative addition result of the measurement time written in the RAM by the cumulative frequency corresponding thereto. However, the calculation method of the first average return time R1 and the second average return time R2 is not limited to this method.

  In accordance with this, in this configuration, the switching control unit 613 performs measurement by the timer 613a without receiving an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 (S3; NO). When the time reaches the waiting time T1 (S4; YES), it is determined whether or not the second average return time R2 is equal to or longer than the first average return time R1 (S31), and the second average return time R2 is the first. When it is equal to or longer than the average return time R1 (S31; YES), the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode (S6), and the second average return time R2 is less than the first average return time R1. (S31; NO), the power supply control unit 612 can be configured and instructed to switch to the first power saving mode (S7).

  According to this configuration, the average value of the elapsed time from when the multifunction device 1 is switched to the second power saving mode to when the multifunction device 1 is switched to the normal power mode is calculated as follows. When the switching control unit 613 switches from the normal power mode to the first power saving mode when the average value of the elapsed time from when the mode is switched to when switching to the normal power mode is greater than the average value, Control is performed to switch from the mode to the third power saving mode.

  That is, the average value of the elapsed time from when the MFP 1 is used in the past to when the MFP 1 is switched to the first power saving mode, the second power saving mode, and the third power saving mode until the normal power mode is switched to. Based on this, the average value of the period in which the multifunction device 1 is set to the second power saving mode is longer than the average value of the period in which the multifunction device 1 is set to the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode. Accordingly, it can be determined that the multifunction device 1 tends to be used after being set to the second power saving mode.

  In addition, when the switching control unit 613 instructs the power supply control unit 612 to switch to the third power saving mode, the power supply control unit 612 reduces the amount of power supplied compared to the first power saving mode. However, the mode of switching to the power supply mode in which the amount of power supply is larger than that in the second power saving mode is not limited to the mode described in the above embodiment.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 8, when the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode from the switching control unit 613, the power supply control unit 612 controls the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61. All periods from when the measurement time by the timer 613a reaches the preset standby time T2 in the case of instructing switching from the first power saving mode to the second power saving mode without accepting the operation instruction (in the drawing) Of the first half period (period from T1 to T3 in the figure) is a supply amount equal to the supply amount P1 of power in the first power saving mode and the latter half period (FIG. The period from T3 to T2 in the middle) may be configured to supply power to each part of the multifunction device 1 with a supply amount equal to the supply amount P2 of power in the second power saving mode.

  The time T3 that is a threshold value for dividing all the periods into the first half period and the second half period is stored in advance as a default value in a ROM or the like provided in the storage unit 67 or the control unit 61 at the time of product shipment. . The time T3 is not limited to this, and the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 are configured to display the setting screen for the time T3 on the display unit 51, and the time T3 input to the setting screen is stored. You may comprise so that it may memorize | store in RAM etc. with which the part 67 or the control part 61 was equipped.

  In this case, when the multifunction device 1 is switched to the third power saving mode, the measurement time by the timer 613a is not received through the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 without receiving an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1. When switching to the first power saving mode for all the periods until reaching the preset standby time T2 in the case of instructing switching from the mode to the second power saving mode (period from T1 to T2 in FIG. 8) In comparison, the power supplied to each part of the multifunction device 1 can be reduced by a supply amount corresponding to the shaded area in FIG.

  Alternatively, for example, as illustrated in FIG. 9, when the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode from the switching control unit 613, the power supply control unit 612 receives the multifunction device via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61. The period until the waiting time T2 when the measurement time by the timer 613a is instructed to switch from the first power saving mode to the second power saving mode without receiving an operation instruction for 1 (from T1 to T2 in the figure) Is divided into four periods, for example, a period from T1 to T31, a period from T31 to T32, a period from T32 to T33, and a period from T33 to T2 in the figure. The power supply amount P1 or less in the first power saving mode is set in advance so as to decrease every time the divided period elapses. In the second Ministry supply amount is the power supply amount P2 or more in the power mode P1, P31, P32, P2 there may be configured to provide power to each unit of the MFP 1.

  In these cases, when the multi-function device 1 is switched to the third power saving mode, the measurement time by the timer 613a is first saved without receiving an operation instruction for the multi-function device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61. When switching to the first power saving mode for all the periods until reaching the preset standby time T2 in the case of instructing switching from the power mode to the second power saving mode (period from T1 to T2 in FIG. 9) In comparison with FIG. 9, the power supplied to each part of the multifunction device 1 can be reduced stepwise as time passes by the amount of supply corresponding to the shaded area in FIG. 9.

  In the above embodiment, the switching control unit 613 receives an operation instruction for the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 in a state where the multifunction device 1 is set to the second power saving mode. When configured, the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. For this reason, when the multifunction device 1 is set to the second power saving mode, for example, when the multifunction device 1 collides with the multifunction device 1 and passes through the vicinity of the multifunction device 1, the multifunction device 1 Even if the machine 1 is operated by mistake, the multifunction machine 1 is switched to the normal power mode, and power is supplied to each part in the normal power mode until the standby time T1 elapses.

  Therefore, the switching control unit 613 is not limited to the configuration in the above embodiment, and the multifunction device 1 is connected to the multifunction device 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 in a state where the multifunction device 1 is set in the second power saving mode. When an operation instruction is received, the power supply control unit 612 is instructed to switch from the second power saving mode to the first power saving mode instead of switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. Accordingly, the timer 613a is configured to start the time measuring operation when the multifunction device 1 is set to the first power-off mode in accordance with the instruction from the switching control unit 613. The control unit 613 controls the MFP 1 via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61 in a state where the MFP 1 is set to the first power saving mode according to the instruction. When a measurement time by the timer 613a reaches a preset standby time (for example, a time corresponding to T2-T1 in FIGS. 4, 8, and 9) without receiving an operation instruction, power supply control is performed. When the unit 612 is instructed to switch to the second power saving mode and an instruction to operate the multifunction device 1 is received via the user interface unit 5 and the control unit 61, the power supply control unit 612 switches to the normal power mode. You may comprise so that switching may be instruct | indicated.

  According to this configuration, even when the multifunction device 1 is erroneously operated in a state where the multifunction device 1 is set to the second power saving mode, the multifunction device 1 is switched to the first power saving mode, and the standby time is set. Since power is supplied to each unit in the first power saving mode until T1 elapses, power is supplied compared to the case where the multifunction device 1 is erroneously operated as described above and switched to the normal power mode. The amount can be reduced.

  In addition, the conditions indicating that the standby times T1 and T2 in the above embodiment and the probability of instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode are high are set for each preset time zone. Also good.

  According to this configuration, for example, in the late night or early morning hours when it is considered that there are few opportunities to use the multifunction device 1, the standby times T1 and T2 are set short, and the second power saving mode is set. A condition indicating that the probability of instructing switching to the normal power mode is high is set to the second predetermined condition or the third predetermined condition, and the second power saving mode is set based on the usage status of the multifunction machine 1 in the past time period. The amount of power supply can be reduced. Alternatively, in the daytime hours when it is considered that there are many opportunities to use the multifunction device 1, the standby times T1 and T2 are set longer, and an instruction to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode is given. The first predetermined condition is set as a condition indicating that the probability of failure is high, making it difficult to shift to the second power saving mode based on the recent usage status of the multifunction machine 1, for example, setting the temperature of the fixing roller 451 to a predetermined value. It is possible to reduce the time required for shifting to the normal power mode, for example, by enabling heating immediately to the fixing temperature. That is, the amount of power supply can be flexibly reduced according to the usage status of the multifunction device 1 for each time period.

  In the above-described embodiment, a multifunction peripheral has been described as an example of an electrical device. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and other electrical devices such as a printer, a copier, a scanner, or a fax machine, a personal computer, or the like. It may be a device.

  In the above embodiment, the configurations and settings shown in FIGS. 1 to 9 are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to the embodiment.

1 Multifunction machine (electric equipment)
5 User interface part (operation instruction receiving part)
61 Control unit (operation instruction receiving unit)
612 Power supply control unit 613 Switching control unit 613a Timer (time measuring unit)
C Number of times of continuous recovery (number of times of continuous switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode)
C1 first return count (cumulative frequency instructing switching from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode)
C2 Second return count (cumulative frequency instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode)
P1 power supply (first power saving mode)
P2 power supply (second power saving mode)
R1 first average return time (average value of elapsed time from switching to the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode until switching to the normal power mode)
R2 second average return time (average value of elapsed time from switching to the second power saving mode until switching to the normal power mode)
S1, S3 to S18 Switching control step S2 Time measurement steps T1, T2 Standby time

Claims (9)

An electric device capable of switching between a plurality of power supply modes,
The plurality of power supply modes include a normal power mode for supplying power to each part of the electrical device, a first power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied compared to the normal power mode, and the first A second power saving mode for reducing the amount of power supplied compared to the first power saving mode,
A power supply control unit that switches the power supply mode between the normal power mode, the first power saving mode, and the second power saving mode;
A time measuring unit that starts a time measuring operation when execution of the operation of the electric device based on an operation performed on the electric device is completed in a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode. When,
An operation instruction receiving unit that receives an operation instruction for the electric device;
In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, a first measurement time set by the time measuring unit is set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. When the standby time is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit When the measurement time by the time measurement unit reaches a second standby time set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device, the power supply control unit switches to the second power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit An instruction for operation on the electrical equipment is accepted I, a switching control unit for instructing switching from the power the supply controller first power saving mode or the second power saving mode to the normal power mode,
With
The switching control unit further instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after the electric device is set to the second power saving mode. When the power condition and the normal power mode satisfy the usage condition indicating a tendency more than instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after being set to the other power supply mode, In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, the measurement time by the time measuring unit is not received by the operation instruction receiving unit by the operation instruction receiving unit, and the first waiting time is measured. Is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode, and the power instruction is received by the operation instruction receiving unit. Total supply of power that can be supplied during a period from when the time measured by the time measuring unit reaches the first standby time until the second standby time is reached without receiving an operation instruction to the device An electric device that instructs the power supply control unit to switch to the third power saving mode, which is the power supply mode, whose amount is smaller than the total amount of power that can be supplied in the first power saving mode during the same period .   The usage condition is the cumulative frequency at which the switching control unit instructs the power supply control unit to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode. The electrical device according to claim 1, wherein the frequency is higher than a cumulative frequency instructing switching from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode.   The use condition is that when the switching control unit instructs the power supply control unit to switch from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode, the electric device is switched to the second power saving mode. The average value of the elapsed time from when the first power saving mode is switched to the normal power mode, the switching control unit causes the power supply control unit to switch from the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to the normal power mode. 2. The electrical device when instructed is greater than an average value of elapsed time from when the electric device is switched to the first power saving mode or the third power saving mode to when the electric device is switched to the normal power mode. The electrical equipment described. When the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode by the switching control unit, the time measurement is performed without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. All the time until the measurement time by the unit reaches the second standby time is preset less than the power supply amount in the first power saving mode and larger than the power supply amount in the second power saving mode. The electric device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein electric power is supplied to each part of the electric device at a constant supply amount. When the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode by the switching control unit, the time measurement is performed without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. Among all the periods until the measurement time by the unit reaches the second standby time, the first half period is the supply amount equal to the supply amount of power in the first power saving mode, and the second half period is the first period. The electric device according to any one of claims 1 to 3 , wherein electric power is supplied to each part of the electric device with a supply amount equal to a supply amount of power in the two power saving mode. When the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode by the switching control unit, the time measurement is performed without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. The first time period is set in advance so that the period until the measurement time by the unit reaches the second standby time is divided into a predetermined number of periods and decreases every time the divided period elapses. at a feed rate is the power supply amount or more in the second power saving mode to a less supply amount of power in the power saving mode, any one of claims 1 to 3 for supplying power to each unit of the electrical device Electrical equipment as described in. When the operation instruction receiving unit receives an operation instruction for the electric device in a state where the electric device is set to the second power saving mode, the switching control unit causes the power supply control unit to Instructing switching from the second power saving mode to the first power saving mode instead of switching from the second power saving mode to the normal power mode,
The time measuring unit starts a time measuring operation when the electric device is set to the first power-off mode according to the instruction from the switching control unit,
The switching control unit is further configured so that an operation instruction for the electric device is not received by the operation instruction receiving unit in a state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode by the instruction. When the time measured by the time measuring unit reaches a preset standby time, the switching to the second power saving mode is instructed, and when the operation instruction receiving unit receives an operation instruction for the electric device, the power The electrical device according to any one of claims 1 to 6 , which instructs a supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode. The switching control unit switches the power supply mode to the power supply control unit according to the first and second standby times and the usage conditions set in advance for each preset time zone. The electric device according to any one of claims 1 to 7 , which is instructed. An electric device capable of switching between a plurality of power supply modes, wherein the plurality of power supply modes include a normal power mode for supplying power to each part of the electric device, and power compared to the normal power mode. A first power saving mode for reducing the supply amount of power, and a second power saving mode for reducing the supply amount of power compared to the first power saving mode, the normal power mode, and the first power saving mode. Electric power in an electric device comprising: a power supply control unit that switches the power supply mode between the power saving mode and the second power saving mode; and an operation instruction receiving unit that receives an operation instruction for the electric device. A supply control method comprising:
A time measuring step of starting a time measuring operation when the execution of the operation of the electric device based on an operation performed on the electric device is completed in a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode. When,
In a state where the electric device is set in the normal power mode, a first measurement time set in advance by the time measurement step is set without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device by the operation instruction receiving unit. When the standby time is reached, the power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the first power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode, the operation instruction receiving unit When the measurement time in the time measurement step reaches a second standby time set in advance without receiving an operation instruction for the electric device, the power supply control unit switches to the second power saving mode. In the state where the electric device is set to the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode. A switching control step for instructing the power supply control unit to switch from the first power saving mode or the second power saving mode to the normal power mode when an instruction to operate the electrical device is received by the display receiving unit; ,
Run
In the switching control step, the electrical device has instructed the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after the electrical device has been set to the second power saving mode, and the electrical device has instructed the second power saving mode. When the power condition and the normal power mode satisfy the usage condition indicating a tendency more than instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the normal power mode after being set to the other power supply mode, In a state where the electric device is set to the normal power mode, the measurement time in the time measuring step is not received by the operation instruction accepting unit by the operation instruction accepting unit, and the first standby time is measured. The operation instruction receiving unit instead of instructing the power supply control unit to switch to the first power saving mode. Therefore, electric power that can be supplied during a period from when the measurement time in the time measurement step reaches the first standby time until the second standby time is reached without receiving an operation instruction for the electrical device. The power supply control unit is instructed to switch to the third power saving mode, which is the power supply mode, that is less than the total amount of power that can be supplied in the first power saving mode during the same period. Power supply control method.

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