JP5783153B2 - Image forming apparatus, power control method, and power control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus capable of detecting the approach of a person, detecting the movement of the approaching person's hand, and switching the power supply mode according to the detection result, and a power control method executed by the apparatus And a power control program for causing a computer of the apparatus to execute the power control method.

  For example, image forming apparatuses such as copiers, printers, facsimiles, and multifunction digital peripherals called MFP (Multi Function Peripherals) that integrate the functions of these apparatuses are connected when the user approaches them. In order to warm up by returning from the power saving mode to the normal mode, a human body detection device for detecting that a user has approached is provided.

  As such a human body detection device, one using a pyroelectric sensor (also referred to as a pyroelectric infrared sensor) capable of detecting a human body with a power-saving and low-cost configuration is known.

  This pyroelectric sensor performs detection based on a temperature change when a person moves to the detection range of the sensor, but when mounted on the image forming apparatus, a person approaching to use the apparatus (user Since the sensor is attached so that the movement direction of the sensor is substantially opposite to the sensor, the temperature change in the detection range is small even when a person approaches, and the detection sensitivity deteriorates. Further, it is impossible to detect from which position a person is approaching or stopping.

  Even if it can be detected that a person has stopped in front of the image forming apparatus, it cannot be determined whether or not the person actually uses the image forming apparatus. For this reason, by detecting that the button on the operation panel has been pressed, or by providing an electrostatic sensor on the operation panel and detecting that the user's hand is approaching the operation panel, etc. The use intention was determined.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a technique for restricting the incident direction of heat rays by inserting a lens block (light-shielding chip) in a sensor housing case in order to limit malfunction caused by heat from unnecessary portions.

JP 2000-132755 A

  However, when the intention to use is determined by detecting that a button on the operation panel is pressed or by detection by an electrostatic sensor provided on the operation panel, there are the following problems.

  That is, in order to reduce power consumption, the button on the operation panel has been pressed in the case of an image forming apparatus that shifts to the power saving mode when not in use and switches to the normal mode when the user's intention to use is confirmed. Since it is switched to the normal mode only when it is detected or detected by the electrostatic sensor of the operation panel, there is a problem that the waiting time until it becomes usable is long.

  Even if the technique described in Patent Document 1 described above is diverted to an image forming apparatus and malfunctions due to heat from unnecessary portions are limited, the above problems cannot be solved.

  The present invention has been made to eliminate such drawbacks, and is capable of quickly confirming the user's intention to use the image forming apparatus and shortening the waiting time until it can be used. It is an object of the present invention to provide an apparatus and a power control method executed by the apparatus, and further to provide a power control program for causing a computer of the image forming apparatus to execute the power control method.

The above problem is solved by the following means.
(1) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A second detection area for detecting user behavior is formed inside the apparatus, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed between the first detection area and the second detection area. Corresponding to the non-detection area after a human body detection device and an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level exists; and an output after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the signal, it is determined whether a part of the human body that has entered the first detection area has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area. The entry determination means, the first mode as the power supply mode to each part of the device itself and the second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and the entry determination means, Power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode when it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area; Wherein the end or near the control panel that the front side of the image forming apparatus main body is provided, the first detection area, the area to detect the human body of the user has moved to the front position of use of the image forming apparatus main body The second detection area is an area for detecting a user's hand or arm extended on the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel .
(2) When the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold value, the approach determination means determines that the part of the human body of the user is the second The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control unit determines that the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode.
(3) The power only when the peak value of the output signal exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold within a predetermined time after the user's entry into the first detection area is detected. 3. The image forming apparatus according to item 2, wherein the control unit switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode.
(4) The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and then the peak value of the output signal exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold within a predetermined time. 4. The image forming apparatus according to item 2 or 3, wherein the power supply mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode or the third mode, which is a power saving mode rather than the second mode.
(5) When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold value, the approach determination means determines that a part of the human body of the user is the second 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control unit determines that the power supply mode has been switched from the second mode to the first mode after determining that the power has entered the detection area.
(6) The power control is performed only when the frequency of the output signal exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold within a predetermined time after the entry of the user to the first detection area is detected. 6. The image forming apparatus according to item 5, wherein the means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode.
(7) The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and the frequency of the output signal does not exceed the first action detection frequency threshold within a predetermined time. 7. The image forming apparatus according to item 5 or 6, wherein the power supply mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode or the third mode which is a power saving mode than the second mode.
(8) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A second detection area for detecting user behavior is formed inside the apparatus, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed between the first detection area and the second detection area. Corresponding to the non-detection area after a human body detection device and an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level exists; and an output after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the signal, it is determined whether a part of the human body that has entered the first detection area has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area. The entry determination means, the first mode as the power supply mode to each part of the device itself and the second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and the entry determination means, Power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode when it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area; And when the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold, the approach determination means is configured such that a part of the human body of the user is the second The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and automatically feeds an original document to the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel. An apparatus is installed, and the approach determination means is configured so that a peak value of an output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold but is larger than the first action detection voltage threshold in advance. When it does not exceed the set second action detection voltage threshold, it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, and the peak value of the second output signal exceeds the second action detection voltage threshold The user The power control means displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel when the user determines to operate the operation panel, and the user An image forming apparatus that displays an operation screen of the automatic document feeder on an operation panel when it is determined to operate a feeder.
(9) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal in accordance with a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A second detection area for detecting user behavior is formed inside the apparatus, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed between the first detection area and the second detection area. Corresponding to the non-detection area after a human body detection device and an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level exists; and an output after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the signal, it is determined whether a part of the human body that has entered the first detection area has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area. The entry determination means, the first mode as the power supply mode to each part of the device itself and the second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and the entry determination means, Power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode when it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area; When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold, the entry determination means is configured such that a part of the human body of the user is the second The power control unit determines that it has entered the detection area, and the power control unit switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and an automatic document feeder is placed above the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel. The frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold, but is set in advance larger than the first action detection frequency threshold. When the second action detection frequency threshold is not exceeded, it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, and when the frequency of the action detection output signal exceeds the second action detection frequency threshold And determining that the user operates the automatic document feeder, and the power control unit displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel when the user determines to operate the operation panel. An image forming apparatus, wherein when it is determined to operate an automatic document feeder, an operation screen of the automatic document feeder is displayed on an operation panel.
(10) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A second detection area for detecting user behavior is formed inside the apparatus, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed between the first detection area and the second detection area. Corresponding to the non-detection area after the human body detection device and the output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when the user enters the first detection area Non-detection time determination means for determining whether or not there is a non-detection time with a low output signal level, and when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means, Whether or not a part of the human body of the user who has entered the first detection area has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal. It is possible to switch between an entry determination means for determining, a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the own device, and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and the entry determination means When it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area, the power control unit switches to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode. When the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold, the approach determination means is configured such that a part of the user's human body is the first The power control unit switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and an automatic document is placed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel. The conveyance device is installed, and the second detection area includes an operation panel detection area for detecting use of the operation panel by the user, and the automatic document by the user formed in front of the operation panel detection area. Including an automatic document feeder detection area for detecting use of the feeder, and the entry determination means determines that the user has only one output signal peak after the non-detection time. Is determined to operate the operation panel, if there are two or more, it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, and the power control unit determines that the user operates the operation panel, An initial image during normal operation is displayed on the operation panel, and an operation screen of the automatic document feeder is displayed on the operation panel when it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder. apparatus.
(11) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A second detection area for detecting user behavior is formed inside the apparatus, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed between the first detection area and the second detection area. Corresponding to the non-detection area after the human body detection device and the output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when the user enters the first detection area Non-detection time determination means for determining whether or not there is a non-detection time with a low output signal level, and when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means, Whether or not a part of the human body of the user who has entered the first detection area has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal. It is possible to switch between an entry determination means for determining, a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the own device, and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and the entry determination means When it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area, the power control unit switches to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode. When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold, the approach determination means is configured such that a part of the human body of the user is the second The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and an automatic document feeder is placed above the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel. And the second detection area includes an operation panel detection area for detecting use of the operation panel by the user, and the automatic document feeder by the user formed in front of the operation panel detection area. A detection area for an automatic document feeder that detects the use of the image forming apparatus, and the entry determination means determines that the user is in a state where there is only one output signal peak after the non-detection time. It is determined that the operation panel is operated, and when there are two or more, it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, and the power control unit operates when the user determines that the operation panel is operated. An initial image during normal operation is displayed on a panel, and an operation screen of the automatic document feeder is displayed on an operation panel when it is determined that a user operates the automatic document feeder. .
(12) In the preceding items 8 to 11, the lens forms another non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays around at least one of the operation panel detection area and the automatic document feeder detection area. The image forming apparatus according to any one of the above.
(13) The non-detection area formed between the first detection area and the second detection area is formed almost directly above the human body detection device in the vicinity of the end portion on the user side of the operation panel. 13. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 1 to 12 above.
(14) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action in front of the apparatus and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. A power control method executed in an image forming apparatus having a human body detection device having a human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area A non-detection time determination step for determining whether there is a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area after the output signal for proximity detection, and a non-detection time in the non-detection time determination step When it is determined that there is a part of the user's human body that has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time, The entry determination step for determining whether or not the vehicle has entered the second detection area beyond the first mode, the first mode as the power supply mode to each part of the own device, and power saving than the first mode When the second mode can be switched and it is determined in the entry determination step that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area, Running, and power control step of switching to the first mode if the supply mode is the second mode, the operation panel provided at the end or near the front side of the image forming apparatus main body, the first The first detection area is an area for detecting a human body moved to the front use position of the image forming apparatus main body, and the second detection area is a user's body that is extended to the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel. An electric power control method characterized by being an area for detecting a hand or an arm.
(15) A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal in accordance with a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens. In the compound eye lens formed, each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the user's own device. A compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action in front of the apparatus and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. An output for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area into a computer of the image forming apparatus having the human body detection apparatus. A non-detection time determination step for determining whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after the signal; and the non-detection time is determined in the non-detection time determination step. In this case, based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time, a part of the human body entering the first detection area exceeds the non-detection area and the second Switching between a first mode as a power supply mode for each part of the own device and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode. When it is determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area in the approach determination step, the power supply mode is set to the second A power control step of switching to the first mode if the mode is selected, an operation panel is provided at or near the front end of the main body of the image forming apparatus, and the first detection area is an image This is an area for detecting the human body of the user who has moved to the front use position of the main body of the forming apparatus, and the second detection area detects the user's hand or even the arm that is put out on the upper surface of the main body of the image forming apparatus including the operation panel. A power control program characterized by being an area.

  According to the invention described in (1) above, the human body detection sensor and the compound eye lens form a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device. A second detection area for detecting a user's action is formed inside the apparatus from the first detection area, and a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light is between the first detection area and the second detection area. It is formed. When the user moves to the first detection area and causes a part of the human body to enter the second detection area, non-detection occurs after an output signal for proximity detection corresponding to the first detection area from the human body detection sensor. There is a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the area, and after this non-detection time, an output signal corresponding to the second detection area is output. Then, it is determined whether or not the non-detection time exists after the output signal for proximity detection, and when it is determined that the non-detection time exists, based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time It is determined whether a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area. If it is determined that the user has entered, the power supply mode of the image forming apparatus is the first power supply mode. If the second mode is more power saving than the mode, the mode is switched to the first mode. In addition, when it is already in the first mode, the first mode is maintained.

  For example, when a user who has moved to the first detection area reaches for use of the image forming apparatus, this is detected in the second detection area, and it is determined that the user intends to use the apparatus. The power supply mode is switched to the first mode. Therefore, as compared with the conventional case, image forming is performed as compared with the case where the power supply mode cannot be switched to the first mode until the user presses a button on the operation panel or the electrostatic sensor provided on the operation panel reacts. The start-up timing of the device can be advanced, and the waiting time until it can be used can be shortened.

  And since the non-detection area is formed between the 1st detection area and the 2nd detection area, the user's approach operation to the 1st detection area and a part of human body to the 2nd detection area Output signal corresponding to the second detection area, which is output with an interval of non-detection time after the output signal for proximity detection corresponding to the first detection area. Can be determined with high accuracy, and the user's intention to use can be confirmed with high accuracy.

Also, a hand or even arms extending in the upper surface of the image forming apparatus body including a user operation panel moves to the front service position of the image forming apparatus main body, can be accurately detected.

According to the invention described in ( 2 ) above, when the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold, a part of the user's human body is in the second detection area. Since the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode, it can be more reliably determined that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area. .

According to the invention described in ( 3 ) above, only when the peak value of the output signal exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold within a predetermined time after the user moves to the first detection area, Since the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode, even when the user moves to the first detection area and then leaves without using the image forming apparatus, the power supply mode is changed. The inconvenience of switching can be avoided.

According to the invention described in item ( 4 ) above, the power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and then the peak value of the output signal becomes the first action within a predetermined time. If the voltage threshold for detection is not exceeded, it is considered that the image forming apparatus is no longer used. Therefore, the power supply mode is changed from the first mode to the second mode or the power saving mode from the second mode to the third mode. Switch to this mode to reduce unnecessary power consumption.

According to the invention described in ( 5 ) above, when the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold, a part of the user's human body moves to the second detection area. Since it is determined that the vehicle has entered and the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode, it is possible to more reliably determine that a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area.

According to the invention described in the preceding item ( 6 ), only when the frequency of the output signal exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold within a predetermined time after the user moves to the first detection area, Since the supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode, the power supply mode is switched when the user moves to the first detection area and then leaves without using the image forming apparatus. Can be avoided.

According to the invention described in the preceding item ( 7 ), the power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, and then the frequency of the output signal is detected by the first action detection within a predetermined time. If the frequency threshold for use is not exceeded, it is considered that the image forming apparatus is no longer used. Therefore, the power supply mode is changed from the first mode to the second mode, or the third mode, which is a power saving mode than the second mode. Switch to mode.

According to the invention described in ( 8 ) above, when the user operates the operation panel based on the magnitude relationship between the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time and the first and second action detection voltage thresholds And a case where the automatic document feeder is operated, a predetermined screen is displayed on the operation panel.

According to the invention described in ( 9 ) above, when the user operates the operation panel based on the magnitude relationship between the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time and the first and second action detection frequency thresholds; It is determined that the automatic document feeder is operated, and a predetermined screen is displayed on the operation panel.

According to the invention described in ( 10 ) above, the second detection area includes an operation panel detection area for detecting use of the operation panel by the user, and an automatic document transfer device for detecting use of the automatic document transfer apparatus by the user. By forming a detection area and detecting the number of output signal peaks after the non-detection time, it is possible to distinguish between when the user operates the operation panel and when operating the automatic document feeder. A predetermined screen is displayed.

  According to the invention described in item (12), another non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed around at least one of the detection area for the operation panel and the detection area for the automatic document feeder. Therefore, it is possible to reliably detect a part of the human body entering the detection area for the operation panel or the detection area for the automatic document feeder.

  According to the invention described in (13) above, the non-detection area formed between the first detection area and the second detection area is almost the same as that of the human body detection device in the vicinity of the end portion on the user side of the operation panel. Since it is formed directly above, the first detection area and the second detection area can be accurately distinguished in the contact / separation direction of the image forming apparatus.

  According to the invention described in item (14), the start timing of the image forming apparatus can be advanced, and the waiting time until the image forming apparatus can be used can be shortened. In addition, the output signal corresponding to the second detection area, which is output after the non-detection time corresponding to the non-detection area after the output signal for approach detection corresponding to the first detection area, is accurately determined. As a result, the user's intention to use can be confirmed with high accuracy.

Also, a hand or even arms extending in the upper surface of the image forming apparatus body including a user operation panel moves to the front service position of the image forming apparatus main body, can be accurately detected.

According to the invention described in the above item ( 15 ), it is possible to cause the computer of the image forming apparatus to execute a process capable of reducing the waiting time until it can be used and accurately confirming the user's intention to use. it can.

In addition, the computer of the image forming apparatus performs processing that allows the user who has moved to the front use position of the image forming apparatus main body to accurately detect the hand or the arm extended to the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel. Can be executed.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which similarly shows an electrical structure. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the structure of a human body detection apparatus. It is a top view which shows typically the lens of a human body detection apparatus. (A) is a diagram schematically showing the orientation and detection area of the human body detection device when the side surface of the image forming apparatus is viewed, and (B) is a schematic illustration of the detection area when the image forming apparatus is viewed obliquely from the front side. FIG. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the general operation | movement of a human body detection sensor. 2 is a plan view schematically showing a positional relationship between the image forming apparatus and a detection area. FIG. It is a figure which shows the relationship between the detection area when a person approaches an image forming apparatus and extended a hand, and the output waveform of a human body detection sensor. 5 is a flowchart illustrating user approach and action detection processing by the image forming apparatus. FIG. 10 is a plan view schematically illustrating a positional relationship between an image forming apparatus and a detection area for explaining another embodiment of the present invention. It is a top view which shows typically the other example of the lens of a human body detection apparatus.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the electrical configuration.

  As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the image forming apparatus 1 includes an image processing block 100, an engine control block 101, an operation panel 102, an image reading unit 103, a power control block 104, a human body detection device 200, and the like. .

  The image processing block 100 processes image data input through the network 2 or input from the image reading unit 103. The communication unit 100a communicates with the network 2, the input image data and other A data storage unit 100b including a hard disk device that stores data, an image processing unit 100c that performs predetermined processing on input image data, a control unit (CPU) 100d, and the like are provided. The control unit 100d controls each unit in the image processing block 100, the image reading unit 103, and the operation panel 102 in cooperation with the engine control block 101, the control unit 104a of the power control block 104, and the like. is there.

  The engine control block 101 includes an image forming unit 101a, a control unit (CPU) 101b, a ROM 101c, and a RAM 101d.

  The image forming unit 101a is a component for printing image data on a sheet, and includes a photosensitive drum, a developing unit, a charging unit, a transfer belt, a toner cartridge, a sheet feeding / conveying unit, a fixing unit, and the like (not shown). .

  The control unit 101b controls the image forming unit 101a in cooperation with the control unit 100d of the image processing block 100, the control unit 104a of the power control block 104, and the like, and the ROM 101c operates the CPU of the control unit 101b. The RAM 101d provides a work area when the CPU operates.

  The operation panel 102 is used for a user to perform various function setting operations when the image forming apparatus 1 is used, and to display an operation screen, an apparatus state, a message, and the like. It is provided in the side edge part or its vicinity.

  The image reading unit 103 reads an image of a document and converts it into image data that is electronic data. In this embodiment, the document is automatically conveyed to the reading position on the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body 10. An automatic document feeder (ADF) 103a.

  The power control block 104 includes a power supply device (not shown) that converts AC commercial power into DC and a control unit (CPU) 104a. The control unit 104 a supplies power to each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 and controls supply power according to the load state of the image forming apparatus 1. In this embodiment, the control unit 104 a includes a human body detection sensor of the human body detection apparatus 200. Based on the output signal, the power supply mode to each part of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched to a plurality of modes. These power supply modes differ depending on the combination of on / off of power supply to the image processing block 100, the engine control block 101, the operation panel 102, and the like, but details will be described later.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the human body detection device 200 is provided on the substrate 201 in such a manner as to cover the human body detection sensor 202 and the human body detection sensor 202 disposed on the substrate 201, and a plurality of unit lenses 204 in the vertical and horizontal directions. And a compound eye lens 203 made of a full-lens lens.

  The human body detection sensor 202 includes a pyroelectric sensor having positive and negative electrode pairs 202a and 202b that generate an output in accordance with a change amount of incident infrared rays. The number and configuration of sensors (pyroelectric electrodes) are not limited.

  With the human body detection device 200 having such a configuration, a human body detection space 205 for detecting infrared rays from a human body (particularly, a face, a hand, and an arm not covered with clothes) is provided outside the human body detection device 200. The number of unit lenses 204 is formed so as to spread in a direction connecting 202 and each unit lens 204 of the compound eye lens 203. Each human body detection space 205 includes a space in which infrared rays are detected by the positive electrode 202a and a space detected by the negative electrode 202b, corresponding to the positive and negative electrodes 202a and 202b of the human body detection sensor 202.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 4A, the compound eye lens 203 has a circular shape in plan view, and one end side in the radial direction of the compound eye lens 203 (the lower side in FIG. 4A). The other end side (the upper side in FIG. 4A) is divided into two unit lens groups 501 and 502. In the middle part of both unit lens groups 501 and 502, infrared rays are transmitted to the human body detection sensor 202. A shielding portion 500 (shown by double hatching in FIG. 4) that shields transmission is formed. Each unit lens group 501 and 502 is composed of two unit lenses 204 on the top and bottom and a plurality of unit lenses 204 on the left and right.

  The shape of the compound eye lens 203, the number and arrangement of the unit lenses 204 are not limited. For example, a rectangular shape in plan view as shown in FIG. Also in the compound eye lens 203 shown in FIG. 4B, two unit lens groups 501 are provided on one end side (the lower side in FIG. 4B) and the other end side (the upper side in FIG. 4B) of the length. In the middle part of both unit lens groups 501 and 502, a shielding part 500 that shields the transmission of infrared rays is formed.

  As shown in FIG. 5A, the human body detection device 200 having the above configuration is attached to the vicinity of the operation panel 102 of the image forming apparatus main body 10 so that the center of the device faces obliquely upward. By attaching the human body detection device 200 having such a compound eye lens 203, as shown in FIG. 5A, the infrared rays corresponding to the shielding portion 500 of the lens 203 are directed substantially vertically upward of the human body detection device 200. A non-detection space 205D that is not detected is formed, and a plurality of first detection spaces 205A heading obliquely upward from the human body detection device 200 on the front side (user side) of the image forming apparatus 1 with the non-detection space 205D as a boundary. 205B are formed, and on the main body side of the image forming apparatus 1, a second detection space 205C is formed that extends obliquely upward from the human body detection device 200.

  The first detection spaces 205A and 205B are formed by unit lenses 204 belonging to the first unit lens group 501 of the compound eye lens 203, and the second detection spaces 205C are second units of the compound eye lens 203. A unit lens 204 belonging to the lens group 502 is formed.

  Therefore, in such a first and second detection spaces 205A, 205B, and 205C, in a horizontal plane that includes the direction of human contact with the image forming apparatus 1, as shown in FIG. A belt-like non-detection area 205d that does not detect the image is formed in the left-right direction in parallel with the edge near the front edge of the image forming apparatus 1, and the image forming apparatus with the non-detection area 205d as a boundary. First detection areas 205 a and 205 b are formed on the front side (user side) of FIG. 1, and a second detection area 205 c is formed above the main body 10 on the main body 10 side of the image forming apparatus 1. Yes.

  Each of the first detection areas 205a and 205b is formed in a plurality of rows in the contact / separation direction (front-rear direction, inward / outward direction) with respect to the image forming apparatus 1 and in the width direction (left / right direction) of the image forming apparatus 1. At the same time, the detection area 205b on the side closer to the image forming apparatus 1 has a smaller area than the detection area 205a on the far side. Further, the detection areas 205a and 205b in the left-right direction of the image forming apparatus 1 have substantially the same area.

  On the other hand, the second detection area 205c is formed in one or a plurality of rows in the contact / separation direction (front-rear direction) with respect to the image forming apparatus, and in the width direction (left-right direction) of the image forming apparatus 1.

  In each of the first and second detection areas 205a, 205b, and 205c, the human body detection is performed so that the positive electrode area and the negative electrode area are formed in this order in the approaching direction to the image forming apparatus 1. Positive and negative electrodes 202a and 202b of the sensor 202 are disposed.

  The first detection areas 205a and 205b are areas for detecting that the user has approached the image forming apparatus 1, and the second detection area 205c is an area for detecting the actions of the approaching user. Examples of user behavior include reaching for the user to use the operation panel 102 and the automatic document feeder 103a. By detecting such behavior, the user's behavior with respect to the image forming apparatus 1 can be exemplified. Confirm your intention to use.

  In this embodiment, when a person with a height of 170 cm approaches the image forming apparatus 1 at a speed of 4.8 km / hour in the office, the image forming apparatus 2 seconds before arrival at the image forming apparatus 1 Detection areas 205a and 205b are formed so that the person's face can be detected by the outer detection area 205a in the first detection area at a position where the distance L to 1 is 2.5 m.

  Here, consider a case where a person 300 enters or passes through one detection area 205 from the positive side area to the negative side area as indicated by an arrow in FIG. 6A and 6B, the moving speed of the upper / lower person 300 is the same. When the person 300 moves to the positive side area, as shown in FIG. 6 (B), the human body detection sensor 202 detects infrared rays from the human body and outputs a convex waveform to the positive side, and subsequently to the negative side area. When a person moves, the human body detection sensor 202 detects infrared rays from the human body and outputs a negative waveform. That is, when the person 300 enters or passes through one detection area, one signal having peak values on the positive side and the negative side is output from the human body detection sensor 202. When there is no human movement, the output converges and returns to the offset voltage. When entering or passing from the negative area to the positive area, the waveform of the output signal is reversed. As shown in FIG. 3, this output signal is input to the control unit 104a via the amplifier 104b of the power control block 104.

  The magnitude of the peak value (also referred to as peak voltage) of the output signal varies depending on the amount of infrared rays. Further, the frequency depends on the area and speed of the detection area when a person passes. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B, the output signal when the person 300 enters or passes through the detection area 205 at a position close to the human body detection sensor 202 is detected at the same speed at a remote position. Both the peak value and the frequency are larger than the output signal when entering or passing through. The frequency increases as the moving speed of the person 300 increases.

  Next, in the image forming apparatus 1 shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, as indicated by an arrow X in FIG. 5B, the user approaches the image forming apparatus 1 from the outside of the first detection area 205a. Will be described with reference to FIG. 7 and FIG.

  For simplification of description, as shown in FIG. 7, it is assumed that there is only one first detection area 205a, 205b, and second detection area 205c in the left-right direction of the image forming apparatus 1. . The second detection area 205c is only one row in the contact / separation direction of the image forming apparatus 1 and extends over the operation panel 102 and the automatic document feeder 103a. Even if a user's hand extends to any of 103a, this can be detected.

  As shown in FIG. 8 (A), when the user enters the first outer detection area 205a from a distance, the user receives infrared rays and receives an output signal from the human body detection sensor 202 as shown in FIG. 8 (B). Is output.

  As described above, the human body detection sensor 202 uses a pyroelectric element, and if there is an input accompanying the movement of the infrared radiation source from the positive side area to the negative side area of each detection area 205a, There is an output of plus → minus (minus → plus when moving in the reverse direction), and the output converges when the movement stops. Thereby, the movement of the user is detected, and a waveform of a voltage and a period corresponding to the amount of infrared rays, the area of the detection area, the moving speed, and the like is output. This output signal becomes an output signal S having a positive peak value and a negative peak value. As will be described later, the output signal S can determine from the output waveform whether the region where the person 300 is moving is the detection area 205a or another detection area. The output signal S by the person 300 is hereinafter referred to as an output signal S1 (the same applies to output signals S2 and S3 described later).

  When the user approaches further and enters the first inner detection area 205b and stops there, an output signal S2 having a positive peak value is output, and the peak value is larger than the peak value of the output signal S1. Become. This is because the infrared intensity is inversely proportional to the square of the distance, and the ratio of the size of the user's face to the area of the detection area 205b increases. Further, since the area of the detection area 205b is narrowed, the output cycle is shortened (frequency is increased).

  Which detection area the user has entered among the first two detection areas 205 a and 205 b is determined by detecting the magnitude of the output from the human body detection sensor 202.

  That is, an output signal from the human body detection sensor 202 is input to the control unit (CPU) 104a of the power supply control block 104 via the amplifier 104b. The control unit 104a compares the peak value of the input output signal with voltage thresholds V1 and V2 for approach determination. The magnitude of the voltage threshold V1 for approach determination is set smaller than the peak value P1 of the output signal S1, and the magnitude of the voltage threshold V2 for approach judgment is larger than the peak value P1 of the output signal S1. It is set smaller than the peak value P2 of S2.

  If the peak value P of the output signal is V1 <P ≦ V2, it is determined that the user has entered the outer detection area 205a, and if V2 <P, the user has entered the inner detection area 205b.

  Note that the determination may be made not by the voltage of the output signal but by the frequency. That is, a frequency f1 smaller than the frequency of the output signal S1 and a frequency f2 larger than the frequency of the output signal S1 and smaller than the frequency of the output signal S2 are preset as frequency thresholds, and the frequency f of the output signal is f1. If <f ≦ f2, the user may enter the outer detection area 205a, and if f2 <f, it may be determined that the user has entered the inner detection area 205b.

  When the user is outside the first outer detection area 205a, the power supply mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is set to the maximum power saving mode, and power is supplied to the image processing block 100, the engine control block 101, and the operation panel 102. Not performed. Since there is a possibility that the image forming apparatus 1 is used when the user enters the first outer detection area 205a, a mode in which only each part of the image processing block 100 is restored from the maximum power saving mode is relaxed. To do. This is because it takes time to return the control unit (CPU) 100d of the image processing block 100. However, in the state where the power saving mode is canceled and the power supply mode during normal operation (normal mode) is restored because the time has not elapsed since the previous use, it is natural that the normal Mode is maintained. The same applies to the control of the power supply mode described below.

  When the user further enters the first inner detection area 205b, it is determined that the user is approaching the image forming apparatus 1, and the possibility that the image forming apparatus 1 is used is further increased. Each unit and the operation panel 102 are also set in a mode for returning from the power saving mode, and the power saving mode is further relaxed. However, at this time, only the control unit (CPU) 101b is restored, the motor of the engine control unit 101 is not operated, and the operation panel 102 is not lit.

  The operation panel 102 is turned on based on whether a part of the user's human body has entered the second detection area 205c, as will be described later.

  On the other hand, when the user moves in parallel with the image forming apparatus 1 and crosses the first outer detection area 205a as indicated by an arrow Y in FIG. 5B, for example, the areas of the plurality of detection areas 205a in the transverse direction Therefore, the peak value of the output signal from the human body detection sensor 202 is substantially the same, and the period of the waveform is constant according to the moving speed. Also in the case of crossing, if a person enters the outside detection area 205a, the image processing block 100, the engine control block 101, etc. return from the power saving mode, but the entire image forming apparatus 1 is not activated. . When it is determined that the detection area is crossed, the maximum power saving mode can be switched again.

  By performing such control, the convenience of the user can be secured with the minimum necessary power supply.

  Note that the power saving mode is a mode in which power is limited from the time of image formation, which is a normal operation time. As described above, the control unit (CPU) 104a of the power control block 104 shifts the power saving mode among a plurality of modes. However, how to make the transition is not limited to the above example. In addition to the mode in which only the image processing block 100 is activated, a mode in which the image reading unit 103 and the operation panel 102 are activated, a mode in which only the engine control block 101 is activated, and the like may be combined. In addition, the first detection areas 205a and 205b are formed in two rows in the front-rear direction. However, the first detection areas 205a and 205b are formed in three or more rows, and the power saving mode is gradually reduced as they move from the outer detection area to the inner detection area. May be.

  Next, when a user who stops in the first inner detection area 205b extends his / her hand forward to operate the operation panel 102 of the image forming apparatus 1 or to operate the automatic document feeder 103a. think of.

  When the user extends his / her hand forward, the hand enters the second detection area 205c beyond the non-detection area 205d. The human body detection sensor 202 detects that the hand has entered and outputs an output signal S3. However, when passing through the non-detection area 205d, the output of the human body detection sensor 202 temporarily becomes an offset voltage, and the non-detection area 205d. It is at a level close to the offset voltage until it passes. In this embodiment, after the sensor voltage becomes the offset voltage, the time until the relationship of (offset voltage−α) <sensor voltage <(offset voltage + α) is not satisfied is detected as the non-detection time. Α is a preset constant.

  If the non-detection time is within a predetermined range, it can be determined that the user's hand has passed through the non-detection area 205d.

  On the other hand, the movement speed of a person is faster than the movement speed of a hand. In general, the average movement speed of a person is 4.8 km / h, whereas the average movement speed of a hand is 10 cm / s = 0.36 m / h. Will be faster. On the other hand, the distance between the hand and the human body detection sensor 202 when the hand is extended to operate the image forming apparatus 1 is such that the human body (particularly the face) and the human body detection sensor 202 when the user approaches the image forming apparatus 1. Closer than the distance. In this case, as the distance between the human body detection sensor 202 and the detected object is shorter, the detection area becomes narrower as shown in FIG. 8A, and the detection sensitivity due to the detected object passing through the detection area is improved. For this reason, the peak value becomes large, and the period is shortened because it changes sharply (see FIG. 6). That is, the distance between the human body detection sensor 202 and the detected object is more dominant than the moving speed, and the output signal detected by the human body detection sensor 202 when the human body detection sensor 202 and the detected object are close to each other is Both frequencies increase. For this reason, the peak value P3 of the output signal S3 generated when the user's hand enters the second detection area 205c, as shown in FIG. 1 is larger than the peak value P2 of the output signal S2 output from the human body detection sensor 202 when detected in the detection area 205b inside 1, and the frequency also increases.

  In addition, since the operation panel 102 is near the front of the image forming apparatus 1, the user who wants to operate the operation panel 102 only has to reach a little. On the other hand, the automatic document feeder 103 a is in front of the operation panel 102, and the user who wants to operate the automatic document feeder 103 a reaches out farther than the operation panel 102.

  For this reason, when operating the automatic document feeder 103a, not only the hand but also the arm enters the second detection area 205c, and the amount of infrared rays with respect to the human body detection sensor 202 is determined when the operation panel 102 is operated. The hand movement speed is also increased.

  For this reason, as shown in an enlarged view in FIG. 8C, the output signal S31 (shown by a solid line) obtained from the human body detection sensor 202 when the hand is extended to operate the operation panel 102 is more automatic. The output signal S32 (indicated by a chain line) obtained from the human body detection sensor 202 when reaching for operating the document conveying device 103a has a larger peak value and a higher frequency.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the voltage threshold value V31 for detecting the output signal S31 when operating the operation panel 102 and the voltage threshold value V32 for detecting the output signal S32 when operating the automatic document feeder 103a are set. Set in advance. The voltage threshold V31 is larger than the peak value P2 of the output signal S2 obtained when the user enters the first inner detection area 205b, and is larger than the peak value P31 of the output signal S31 when operating the operation panel 102. It is set small. The voltage threshold V32 is set to be larger than the peak value P31 of the output signal S31 and smaller than the peak value P32 of the output signal S32 when the automatic document feeder 103a is used.

  If the peak value P3 of the output signal S3 is V31 <P3 ≦ V32, the control unit 104a of the power supply control block 104 determines that the user uses the operation panel 102 and turns on the operation panel 102. The power supply mode is switched to the normal mode, and an initial screen displayed in the normal mode is displayed. On this screen, the user can select a mode such as copy or FAX.

  On the other hand, if the peak value P3 of the output signal S3 is V32 <P3, the user determines that the automatic document feeder 103a is to be used, turns on the operation panel 102 to switch the power supply mode to the normal mode, and automatically An operation screen for the document feeder 103a is displayed. On this operation screen, detailed settings of the reading mode, the number of copies, the paper type, and the like can be set.

  Further, the determination may be made not by the voltage value of the output signal S3 but by the frequency. That is, the frequency f31 that is larger than the frequency f2 of the output signal S2 obtained when the user enters the first inner detection area 205b and smaller than the frequency of the output signal S31 obtained when the operation panel 102 is used. Then, a frequency f32 that is larger than the frequency f31 and smaller than the frequency of the output signal S32 obtained when the automatic document feeder 103a is used is set as a frequency threshold, and the frequency f3 of the third output signal S3 is f31 < If f3 ≦ f32, the control unit 104a of the power control block 104 determines that the user uses the operation panel 102, and if f32 <f3, determines that the user uses the automatic document feeder 103a. You may do it. Also in this case, the operation panel 102 is turned on to switch the power supply mode to the normal mode, and a predetermined screen is displayed on the operation panel 102.

  As described above, when the user who has moved to the first inner detection area 205b reaches for operating the image forming apparatus 1, this is detected by the second detection area 205c, and it is determined that there is an intention to use the user. Thus, the power supply mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched to the normal mode. Therefore, the image forming apparatus 1 is activated as compared with the conventional case where the operation mode cannot be switched until the user presses a button on the operation panel 102 or the electrostatic sensor provided on the operation panel 102 reacts. The timing can be advanced and the waiting time until it can be used can be shortened.

  Moreover, since the non-detection area 205d is formed between the first inner detection area 205b and the second detection area 205c, the movement operation of the user to the first detection area 205b and the second detection area The movement of a part of the human body to 205c can be reliably separated from the presence of the non-detection time corresponding to the non-detection area 205d, and thus the output obtained when entering the first inner detection area 205b. The output signal S3 when entering the second detection area 205c, which is output after the signal S2 with a non-detection time in between, can be determined with high accuracy, and thus the user's intention to use can be confirmed with high accuracy. Can do.

  When the peak value P3 or the frequency of the output signal S3 exceeds the voltage threshold value V31 or the frequency threshold value f31 within a predetermined time after the entry of the user to the first inner detection area 205b is detected. In addition, the control unit 104a may switch the power supply mode to the normal mode. In other words, the peak value P3 or frequency of the output signal S3 did not exceed the voltage threshold V3 or the frequency threshold f3 within a predetermined time after it was detected that the user approached the front of the image forming apparatus 1. In this case, even if the user approaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1, the user does not reach the second detection area 205c, and it can be determined that the user does not intend to use the image forming apparatus 1. This is to avoid wasteful power consumption by switching to the normal mode. In this case, the power saving mode relaxed in steps may be switched again to the maximum power saving mode or another level of power saving mode.

  Further, when it is detected that the user who has moved to the first inner detection area 205b has reached his / her hand, the output of the human body detection sensor 202 does not exceed the threshold value V3 or the frequency threshold value f3 within a predetermined time. In other words, when the operation is not performed for a long time, it is preferable that the user determines that the user has already left, and switches the power supply mode from the normal mode to the maximum power saving mode or another level of power saving mode.

  In the above embodiment, it is determined whether the user uses the operation panel 102 or the automatic document feeder 103a, and a different screen is displayed on the operation panel 102, but it is determined which one is used. Instead, it is possible to detect that the user has entered the second detection area 205c, cancel the power saving mode of the operation panel 102, and display the initial screen on the operation panel 102.

  Further, the peak voltage or frequency of the output signal S3 is compared with the threshold value to determine that the user has entered the second detection area 205c. However, the peak voltage of the output signal S3 is determined to be the voltage threshold value. When the peak voltage exceeds the voltage threshold value, the frequency is compared with the frequency threshold value, and when the frequency exceeds the frequency threshold value, the user has moved the hand into the second detection area 205c. May be confirmed.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing approach and action detection processing by the image forming apparatus 1 when the user approaches in a state where the detection area as shown in FIG. 7 is formed. This process is executed by the CPU of the control unit 104a operating according to an operation program recorded on a recording medium such as a ROM.

  In FIG. 9, in step S31, the voltage of the human body detection sensor 202 is acquired. This voltage acquisition is performed every 5 ms, for example. This voltage is a value obtained by removing noise components by subjecting the AD port signal to moving average processing.

  Next, in step S32, it is determined whether or not the peak value is confirmed. If the peak value is not fixed (NO in step S32), the timer is counted up in step S33, and then in step S34, it is determined whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed.

  If the predetermined time has not elapsed (NO in step S34), the process returns to step S31. When the predetermined time has elapsed (YES in step S34), the peak value, frequency, and timer are cleared in step S35, and the process returns to step S31 after shifting to the maximum power saving mode.

  When the peak value is confirmed in step S32 (YES in step S32), the timer is cleared in step S36, and then in step S37, the peak voltage is determined to determine whether the user has entered the first outside detection area 205a. Is greater than the voltage threshold V1.

  If the peak voltage is not larger than the voltage threshold value V1 (NO in step S37), it cannot be determined that the first outside detection area 205a has been entered, and the process returns to step S31. If it is greater than the voltage threshold V1 (YES in step S37), it is determined in step S38 whether the peak voltage is greater than the voltage threshold V2 in order to determine whether the user has entered the first inner detection area 205b. to decide.

  If the peak voltage is not greater than the voltage threshold value V2 (NO in step S38), it is determined in step S39 that the user has entered the first outside detection area 205a, and in step S40, for example, only each part of the image processing block 100 is determined. Power supply to ease the power saving mode. Next, it is determined whether or not the user simply crosses the first outside detection area 205 a by moving in parallel with the image forming apparatus 1. This determination is made as follows.

  That is, when the user uses the image forming apparatus 1, the user walks to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 in parallel with the image forming apparatus 1, and then changes the direction in the direction of the image forming apparatus to approach the image forming apparatus. Conceivable. In this case, if there are a plurality of, for example five, first outer detection areas 205a in the width direction of the image forming apparatus 1, the direction is changed after moving to the third detection area 205a in the center. become. Therefore, if four or more output signals S1 when entering the first outside detection area 205a continue, this user simply crosses the first outside detection area 205a.

  In other words, when the number of times that it is determined that the vehicle has continuously entered the detection area 205a exceeds the number of rounds of the quotient of (the number of the first outer detection areas 205a / 2), the user can determine that the first outer detection area 205a This determination is made in step S41.

  If it is determined that the vehicle has simply crossed the first outside detection area 205a (YES in step S41), the process proceeds to step S35, the peak value, the timer, etc. are cleared, and the mode is again shifted to the maximum power saving mode. On the other hand, if the first outside detection area 205a is not simply traversed (NO in step S41), the peak value is stored in step S42, and then the process returns to step S31.

  On the other hand, if it is greater than the voltage threshold V2 in step S38 (YES in step S38), it is determined in step S43 whether the user has extended his hand to the second detection area 205c for use of the operation panel 102. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the peak voltage is larger than the voltage threshold value V31.

  If the peak voltage is not greater than the voltage threshold V31 (NO in step S43), it is determined in step S44 that the user has moved to the first inner detection area 205b, and in step S45, the engine control block of the image forming apparatus 1 is determined. Each unit 101 and the operation panel 102 are returned from the power saving mode, and the power saving mode is further relaxed. However, the operation panel 102 is not turned on.

  Next, the peak value is stored in step S46, and after obtaining the sensor voltage in step S47, it is determined in step S48 whether the sensor voltage has become an offset voltage. If the offset voltage is not reached (NO in step S48), the voltage acquisition in step S47 and the determination in step S48 are repeated until the offset voltage is reached. When the sensor voltage becomes an offset voltage (YES in step S48), the timer is counted up in step S49.

  Next, in step S50, it is determined whether (offset voltage−α) <sensor voltage <(offset voltage−α) is satisfied. If the condition is satisfied (YES in step S50), the sensor voltage is acquired in step S51, and the process returns to step S49. In step S49, (offset voltage−α) <sensor voltage <(offset voltage−α) is not satisfied. The timer count up and the determination in step S50 are repeated.

  When (offset voltage−α) <sensor voltage <(offset voltage−α) is not satisfied (NO in step S50), in step S52, the timer count-up time, in other words, the human body detection sensor 202 does not detect the human body. It is determined whether the non-detection time is within a preset required time. If the required time is exceeded (NO in step S52), the user determines that he has approached the image forming apparatus 1 but does not use the image forming apparatus 1 and clears the peak value, timer, etc. Transition to the power mode and return to step S31.

  If the non-detection time is within the required time (YES in step S52), it is stored in step S53 that the non-detection area 205d has been passed, and the process returns to step S31.

  If the peak voltage is larger than the voltage threshold value V31 in step S43 (YES in step S43), whether or not the user has extended his hand to the second detection area 205c for use of the automatic document feeder 103a in step S54. Therefore, it is determined whether or not the peak voltage is larger than the voltage threshold value V32.

  If the peak voltage is not larger than the voltage threshold V32 (NO in step S54), it is checked in step S55 whether the non-detection area 205d has been passed, and if it has passed (YES in step S55), the user operates the operation panel. In order to use 102, it is determined that the hand has been reached in the second detection area 205c, the operation panel 102 is turned on in step S56 and an initial screen is displayed on the operation panel 102, and then the process proceeds to step S42. If it has not passed through the non-detection area 205d in step S55 (NO in step S55), the process proceeds to step S35.

  On the other hand, if the peak voltage is larger than the voltage threshold value V32 in step S54 (YES in step S54), it is checked in step S57 whether the non-detection area 205d has been passed, and if it has passed (YES in step S57). ), It is determined that the user has extended his hand to the second detection area 205c in order to use the automatic document feeder 103a, the operation panel 102 is turned on in step S38, and the automatic panel feeder 103a is connected to the operation panel 102. After displaying the operation screen, the process proceeds to step S42. If it has not passed through the non-detection area 205d in step S57 (NO in step S57), the process proceeds to step S35.

  In this way, it is possible to reliably detect that the user has approached the image forming apparatus 1 and has extended his hand to the second detection area 205c, and the operation mode can be switched.

  In the example of FIG. 9, the user's approach to the image forming apparatus 1 and the subsequent action are detected by comparing the voltage of the output signal from the human body detection sensor 202 with the voltage threshold value. The output signal may be detected by comparing the frequency of the output signal with a frequency threshold.

  FIG. 10 shows another embodiment of the present invention. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected about the component same as FIG. 7, and description is abbreviate | omitted.

  In this embodiment, by changing the configuration of the unit lens 204 in the compound eye lens 203 of the human body detection device 200, the second detection area 205c is divided into a plurality of detection areas, and the arrangement position of the human body detection device 200 is changed. It has been optimized.

  In other words, in the vicinity of the upper surface portion of the image forming apparatus 1, an operation panel detection area 205e for detecting only that the user has reached the operation panel 102 is formed in front of the non-detection area 205d. Further, a detection area 205f for the automatic document feeder for detecting only reaching for the automatic document feeder 103a is formed in front of the detection area 205e.

  In this embodiment, when the user extends his hand to use the operation panel 102, this is detected by the detection area 205 e for the operation panel, and an output signal S 3 having one peak value is output from the human body detection sensor 202. Is done. On the other hand, when the user extends his hand to use the automatic document feeder 103a, this is detected by each of the detection area 205e for the operation panel and the detection area 205f for the automatic document feeder, and from the human body detection sensor 202, An output signal S3 having two peak values is output.

  Therefore, the control unit 104a of the power control block 104 monitors the number of peaks in the waveform of the output signal S3. If the number of peaks is 1, the user determines that the operation panel 102 is used. If the number of peaks is two or more, the user determines that the automatic document feeder 103a is used, changes the power supply mode from the power saving mode to the normal mode, and displays an operation screen corresponding to each. It is displayed on the operation panel 102.

  FIG. 11 shows a modified example of the compound eye lens 203 and corresponds to FIG.

  In this example, in addition to the shielding part 500 at the center of the lens, in the unit lens group 502 for forming the second detection area, another shielding part 503 is formed around a predetermined unit lens. The shielding portion 503 includes an operation panel detection area and an automatic document feeder detection area in addition to the non-detection area 205d formed between the first inner detection area 205b and the second detection area 205c. Another non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed around at least one of the detection areas.

  With this configuration, the operation panel detection area and the automatic document feeder detection area can be separated through the non-detection area, and the operation panel detection area and the automatic document feeder detection area can be separated. A part of the human body can be detected more reliably.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image forming apparatus 100 Image processing block 101 Engine control block 102 Operation panel 104 Power supply control block 104a Control part 200 Human body detection apparatus 202 Human body detection sensor 203 Compound eye lens 204 Unit lens 205a, 205b 1st detection area 205c 2nd detection area

Claims (15)

A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. A compound eye lens, wherein each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device, and further inside the device's inner side than the first detection area. A human body detection device including a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. When,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Entry determination means for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the device itself and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and a part of the user's human body by the entry determination means Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
Equipped with a,
An operation panel is provided at or near the front end of the image forming apparatus main body,
The first detection area is an area for detecting a human body moved to the front use position of the image forming apparatus main body, and the second detection area is extended to the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel. An image forming apparatus that is an area for detecting a user's hand or arm . When the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold value, the approach determination means determines that a part of the human body of the user is in the second detection area. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control unit switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode. The power control means is only when the peak value of the output signal exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold within a predetermined time after the user's entry into the first detection area is detected. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode. The power control means, when the peak value of the output signal does not exceed the first action detection voltage threshold within a predetermined time after switching the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the power supply mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode or the third mode, which is a power saving mode rather than the second mode. 5. When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold value, the entry determination means causes the part of the user's human body to enter the second detection area. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power control unit determines that the power supply mode has entered and switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode. The power control means, only when the frequency of the output signal exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold within a predetermined time after the user's entry into the first detection area is detected, The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the power supply mode is switched from the second mode to the first mode. If the frequency of the output signal does not exceed the first action detection frequency threshold within a predetermined time after switching the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode, The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the supply mode is switched from the first mode to the second mode or the third mode, which is a power saving mode rather than the second mode. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. A compound eye lens, wherein each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device, and further inside the device's inner side than the first detection area. A human body detection device including a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. When,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Entry determination means for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the device itself and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and a part of the user's human body by the entry determination means Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
With
When the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold value, the approach determination means determines that a part of the human body of the user is in the second detection area. The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode,
An automatic document feeder is installed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel.
The approach determining means has a second value that is set in advance so that the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection voltage threshold but is larger than the first action detection voltage threshold. If the action detection voltage threshold is not exceeded, it is determined that the user operates the operation panel. If the peak value of the second output signal exceeds the second action detection voltage threshold, the user Determines to operate the automatic document feeder,
When it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, the power control unit displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel, and when it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, the operation panel An image forming apparatus for displaying an operation screen of the automatic document feeder. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. A compound eye lens, wherein each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device, and further inside the device's inner side than the first detection area. A human body detection device including a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. When,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Entry determination means for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the device itself and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and a part of the user's human body by the entry determination means Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
With
When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold value, the entry determination means causes the part of the user's human body to enter the second detection area. It is determined that the power has entered, and the power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode,
An automatic document feeder is installed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel.
The approach determination means has a frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds the first action detection frequency threshold, but is set in advance to be greater than the first action detection frequency threshold. If the action detection frequency threshold is not exceeded, it is determined that the user operates the operation panel. If the frequency of the action detection output signal exceeds the second action detection frequency threshold, the user Judge that you want to operate the document feeder,
When it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, the power control unit displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel, and when it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, the operation panel An image forming apparatus for displaying an operation screen of the automatic document feeder. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. A compound eye lens, wherein each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device, and further inside the device's inner side than the first detection area. A human body detection device including a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. When,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Entry determination means for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the device itself and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and a part of the user's human body by the entry determination means Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
With
When the peak value of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection voltage threshold value, the approach determination means determines that a part of the human body of the user is in the second detection area. The power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode,
An automatic document feeder is installed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel.
The second detection area detects an operation panel detection area for detecting use of the operation panel by a user, and detects use of the automatic document feeder by the user formed in front of the operation panel detection area. Including a detection area for automatic document feeders,
The entry determining means determines that the user operates the operation panel when there is only one output signal peak after the non-detection time, and when there are two or more, the user determines that the automatic document Judge to operate the transport device,
When it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, the power control unit displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel, and when it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, the operation panel An image forming apparatus for displaying an operation screen of the automatic document feeder. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. A compound eye lens, wherein each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the user's own device at least outside the front of the device, and further inside the device's inner side than the first detection area. A human body detection device including a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. When,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination means for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when the non-detection time is determined by the non-detection time determination means Entry determination means for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the device itself and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and a part of the user's human body by the entry determination means Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control means for switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
With
When the frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time exceeds a preset first action detection frequency threshold value, the entry determination means causes the part of the user's human body to enter the second detection area. It is determined that the power has entered, and the power control means switches the power supply mode from the second mode to the first mode,
An automatic document feeder is installed on the upper part of the image forming apparatus main body in front of the operation panel.
The second detection area detects an operation panel detection area for detecting use of the operation panel by a user, and detects use of the automatic document feeder by the user formed in front of the operation panel detection area. Including a detection area for automatic document feeders,
The entry determining means determines that the user operates the operation panel when there is only one output signal peak after the non-detection time, and when there are two or more, the user determines that the automatic document Judge to operate the transport device,
When it is determined that the user operates the operation panel, the power control unit displays an initial screen during normal operation on the operation panel, and when it is determined that the user operates the automatic document feeder, the operation panel An image forming apparatus for displaying an operation screen of the automatic document feeder. 12. The lens according to claim 8, wherein another non-detection area that does not detect infrared rays is formed around at least one of the detection area for the operation panel and the detection area for the automatic document feeder. An image forming apparatus according to claim 1. The non-detection area formed between the first detection area and the second detection area is formed almost directly above the human body detection device in the vicinity of an end portion on a user side of the operation panel. The image forming apparatus according to any one of 1 to 12. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. It is a compound eye lens, and each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the own device at least outside the front of the own device, and further on the front side of the own device with respect to the first detection area. A human body detection having a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. A power control method executed in an image forming apparatus including the apparatus,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination step for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when it is determined that the non-detection time exists in the non-detection time determination step An entry determination step for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the own device and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and in the approach determination step, a part of the human body of the user Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control step of switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
The execution,
An operation panel is provided at or near the front end of the image forming apparatus main body,
The first detection area is an area for detecting a human body moved to the front use position of the image forming apparatus main body, and the second detection area is extended to the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel. A power control method characterized by being an area for detecting a user's hand or arm. A human body detection sensor including a pyroelectric sensor that generates an output signal according to a change amount of incident infrared rays, and a plurality of unit lenses that cover the human body detection sensor and collect infrared rays in the lens are formed. It is a compound eye lens, and each unit lens forms a first detection area for detecting the approach of the user to the own device at least outside the front of the own device, and further on the front side of the own device with respect to the first detection area. A human body detection having a compound eye lens that forms a second detection area for detecting a user's action and forms a non-detection area that does not detect infrared light between the first detection area and the second detection area. In the computer of the image forming apparatus provided with the apparatus,
Whether or not a non-detection time with a low output signal level corresponding to the non-detection area exists after an output signal for proximity detection obtained by the human body detection sensor when a user enters the first detection area. A non-detection time determination step for determining;
A user who has entered the first detection area based on at least one of the magnitude and frequency of the output signal after the non-detection time when it is determined that the non-detection time exists in the non-detection time determination step An entry determination step for determining whether a part of the human body has entered the second detection area beyond the non-detection area;
It is possible to switch between a first mode as a power supply mode to each part of the own device and a second mode that is more power saving than the first mode, and in the approach determination step, a part of the human body of the user Is determined to have entered the second detection area, the power control step of switching to the first mode if the power supply mode is the second mode,
And execute
An operation panel is provided at or near the front end of the image forming apparatus main body,
The first detection area is an area for detecting a human body moved to the front use position of the image forming apparatus main body, and the second detection area is extended to the upper surface of the image forming apparatus main body including the operation panel. A power control program characterized by being an area for detecting a user's hand or arm.

Images