JP5799622B2 - Power supply control device, image processing device, power supply control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a power supply control device, an image processing device, and a power supply control program.

  The housing of the image processing apparatus is provided with a door that can be opened for internal maintenance or the like. When the door is opened, an interlock system is provided that detects the opening and shuts off the power supply to each device represented by the image processing unit, the image reading unit, and the like of the image processing apparatus. As a means for shutting off the power supply provided as a part of the interlock system, a contact switching means with a so-called mechanical operation is applied from the viewpoint of withstand voltage or the like. The contact switching means is typically a relay switch that connects or disconnects the contact with magnetic force by exciting a coil, for example.

  As a prior art related to the above-described interlock system, Patent Document 1 discloses that when switching the power supply in accordance with opening and closing of a door of an image forming apparatus or the like, the apparatus is quickly brought into an operating state by closing the opened door. It has been proposed to be possible.

  In patent document 1, the 1st DC power supply from which AC (alternating current) input and DC (direct current) output are performed, the 2nd DC power supply from which AC input and constant DC output are performed, and the interruption of the emergency power supply interruption section are necessary. An interlock unit that cuts off an AC input to the first DC power supply in accordance with an operation; a switching unit that switches between a DC output of the first DC power supply and a DC output of a second DC power supply as a voltage supply to a load; And a control unit that controls switching of the switching unit.

  On the other hand, as a technique for reducing power consumption when the image processing apparatus is not used, Patent Document 2 discloses a first timer that automatically shifts to a power saving state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the use of the fixing apparatus. It has been proposed to perform control with a second timer that automatically shifts to a power-off state when a predetermined time elapses after the operation of the composite apparatus or when the operation is accessed from the outside.

  In Patent Document 3, it is proposed that a processing unit having at least two functions of a copying function, a printer function, and a facsimile function is provided, and an auto shut time can be set for the processing unit for each selected function. Has been.

  Patent Document 4 records the detection of the approach of a person and the operation instruction history of the operation unit, determines whether or not the user is used, or switches the power mode based on the detection of the user. Has been proposed.

  Further, Patent Document 5 proposes enabling an on / off control function of a human body detection function in an image forming apparatus including a human body detection unit that emits infrared rays and detects a nearby person from reflected light. ing. In Patent Document 5, it is possible to avoid interference with a device using other infrared rays, and to stop unnecessary infrared emission to extend the sensor life.

JP 2010-262030 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-163769 Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 06-006496 JP 2010-147725 A JP 2001-255169 A

  An object of the present invention is to obtain a power supply control device, an image processing device, and a power supply control program that can reduce an operation burden by avoiding unnecessary transition between a power supply state and a power supply state.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a load that executes a predetermined process by operating with power supplied from a power supply unit, and a surrounding that is based on the load is set as a detection region and the load is used. Mobile body detecting means for detecting whether or not there is a mobile body including a user, and a power supply state for receiving power from the power supply section, or supplying power from the power supply section for at least the load. The power supply state transition control means for making a transition to an uninterruptible power cut-off state, the detection information by the moving body detection means, and the timekeeping information of a predetermined timekeeping means are respectively compared with reference information, thereby the power supply state transition control. Counting the number of transitions between the power supply state and the power cut-off state by the transition time determination means for determining the transition time by the means and the power supply state transition control means That counting means, based on the number of transitions which are counted by at least the counting means, a correction means for correcting the reference information for determining the transition timing determining means, the correctness of the decision in the transition timing determination means, Comparing the correctness determination means for determining based on the operation information of the load after the transition from the power cut-off state to the power supply state, the false detection rate calculated from the determination result of the correctness determination means, and a reference value By so doing, there is a correction propriety determining means for determining whether the reference information can be corrected by the correction means .

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the present invention, the reference information to be corrected by the correction unit is reference information to be compared with the time measurement information of the time measurement unit.

The invention of claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or claim 2, reference information to further corrected to the correction means, the reference information to be compared with the information detected by said moving object detecting means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the pyroelectric sensor according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the moving body detecting means is a pyroelectric sensor having a relatively wide detection area. At least one of the reflective sensors having a narrow range as a detection region.

The invention according to claim 5 is the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 4 , wherein the load operates in response to power supply and executes a predetermined process. It is classified into a processing unit and an instruction unit that selectively instructs at least the processing contents to the plurality of processing units, and the detection result by the moving body detection means is analyzed as a mode that is shifted in the power cut-off state A sleep mode for supplying power to the monitoring control unit, and an awake mode for supplying power to the instruction unit as necessary, and the processing unit is started from the sleep mode as a mode to be transitioned in the power supply state A warm-up mode which is a preparatory stage for standby, a standby mode in which power is supplied to the processing unit at a lower level than during normal operation, and power during normal operation is supplied to the processing unit. Comprising a plurality of modes including a running mode of feeding, transition modes according to the processing conditions.

A sixth aspect of the present invention is the invention according to any one of the first to fifth aspects of the present invention, wherein a coil part, a secondary whose current is controlled based on electric power from a power source part as a primary side circuit. A contact switching unit that switches the contact by a mechanical operation according to the energization state of the coil unit as a circuit on the side, the contact of the contact switching unit is switched according to the transition by the power supply state transition control means , It further includes a relay for connecting or disconnecting power supply wiring provided for supplying power from the power supply unit to the load by the operation of the contact switching unit, and the correction unit is based on the power supply state transition control unit The correction is made so that the number of transitions between the power supply state and the power cut-off state is decreased.

A seventh aspect of the invention includes the power supply control device according to any one of the first to sixth aspects, wherein the load is an image reading unit that reads an image from a document image, based on image information. An image forming unit that forms an image on recording paper, a facsimile communication control unit that transmits an image to a transmission destination under a predetermined communication procedure, a user interface unit that performs information reception notification with a user, and a user The image processing apparatus includes at least one user identification device for identifying the image and performs image processing in cooperation with each other based on an instruction from the user.

The invention according to claim 8 is a power supply control program for causing a computer to function as each means of the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5 .

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, an unnecessary power supply state and a transition between the power supply state can be avoided, and the operation load can be reduced.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to adjust the determination criterion with high accuracy by simple correction as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the determination criterion can be adjusted with high accuracy by simple correction as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, sensors having different specifications can be arranged at appropriate positions in each region.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to issue a transition instruction in units of modes.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to suppress a contact switching operation accompanied by a mechanical operation provided in an interlock portion or the like, accompanying power cut-off control for power saving.

According to the invention described in claim 7 , it is possible to avoid an unnecessary transition between the power supply state and the power supply state, thereby reducing the operation burden.

According to the invention described in claim 8 , it is possible to avoid an unnecessary transition between the power supply state and the power supply state, thereby reducing the operation burden.

1 is a communication line network connection diagram including an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus according to a first embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image processing apparatus which concerns on 1st Embodiment. It is the schematic which classified the control system of the main controller which concerns on 1st Embodiment, and a power supply device according to a function. 5 is a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a plan view illustrating an image processing apparatus and its surroundings according to a first embodiment. It is an electric power supply line wiring diagram concerning a 1st embodiment. FIG. 9A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of a sleep transition time according to the first embodiment, and FIG. 8B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. It is a sleep mode transition execution control flowchart which shows the flow of the sleep mode transition common to 1st-8th embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 1st Embodiment. FIG. 11A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of a sleep transition time according to the second embodiment, and FIG. 11B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. FIG. 14A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of a sleep transition time according to the third embodiment, and FIG. 13B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. FIG. 15A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of a sensor detection range, and FIG. 15B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. 15A according to the fourth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 4th Embodiment. FIG. 18A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of the sensor detection range, and FIG. 17B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. 17A, according to the fifth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 5th Embodiment. FIG. 20A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of a sensor detection range according to the sixth embodiment, and FIG. 19B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 6th Embodiment. FIG. 21A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of sleep transition time according to the seventh embodiment, and FIG. 21B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment of FIG. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 7th Embodiment. FIG. 24A is an adjustment characteristic diagram of the sensor detection range, and FIG. 23B is a sleep return frequency characteristic diagram based on the adjustment according to FIG. 23A, according to the eighth embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the sleep transfer adjustment control routine which concerns on 8th Embodiment.

“First Embodiment”
(Configuration of image processing apparatus)
As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment is connected to a network communication line network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, two image processing apparatuses 10 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more.

  In addition, a plurality of PCs (personal computers) 21 as information terminal devices are connected to the network communication line network 20. In FIG. 1, two PCs 21 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more. Further, the information terminal device is not limited to the PC 21 and does not need to be wired. That is, it may be a communication network that transmits and receives information wirelessly.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the image processing apparatus 10, for example, when data is transferred from the PC 21 to the image processing apparatus 10 remotely to perform an image formation (print) instruction operation, or a user (user) May stand in front of the image processing apparatus 10 and instruct various processes such as copying (copying), scanning (image reading), and facsimile transmission / reception by various operations.

  FIG. 2 shows an image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment.

  The image processing apparatus 10 is covered with a housing 10A, and a door that can be opened and closed is provided at an appropriate place. As an example, the front door 10B of FIG. 2 is illustrated, but there may be doors on the left and right side surfaces, for example. The door 10B is opened when an operator extends his / her hand inside the apparatus, such as a paper jam, replacement of consumables, and periodic inspection, and is closed during normal processing.

  On the opening / closing operation locus of the door 10B, an opening / closing detection switch 14A for detecting the opening / closing state of the door 10B is provided. This open / close detection switch 14A is an essential member for the interlock portion 14 shown in FIG. When the interlock section 14 determines that the door 10B has been opened based on an output signal from the open / close detection switch 14A, a relay switch 14RLY provided in the interlock section 14 and whose contact is switched by a mechanical operation is provided. By operating, the power supply from the outside is cut off (the power supply from a commercial power supply 242 (see FIGS. 3 and 4) described later is cut off).

  The relay switch 14RYL includes a switch unit that switches the contact point and a coil unit that is disposed to face the switch unit. A circuit is incorporated in the coil section so that current does not flow or does not flow in accordance with an output signal from the open / close detection switch 14A (primary circuit). The contact of the switch unit is switched by a mechanical operation between when a current flows through the coil unit and when the current does not flow, and the power supply line (secondary circuit) is connected or cut off.

  The image processing apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 240 that forms an image on recording paper, an image reading unit 238 that reads an original image, and a facsimile communication control circuit 236. The image processing apparatus 10 includes a main controller 200, and controls the image forming unit 240, the image reading unit 238, and the facsimile communication control circuit 236 to temporarily store image data of a document image read by the image reading unit 238. The stored image data or the read image data is sent to the image forming unit 240 or the facsimile communication control circuit 236.

  A network communication line network 20 such as the Internet is connected to the main controller 200, and a telephone line network 22 is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 236. For example, the main controller 200 is connected to a host computer via the network communication line network 20 and receives image data or performs facsimile reception and facsimile transmission using the telephone line network 22 via the facsimile communication control circuit 236. Has a role to play.

  The image reading unit 238 receives a document table for positioning a document, a scan drive system that scans an image of the document placed on the document table and irradiates light, and light reflected or transmitted by scanning of the scan drive system. And a photoelectric conversion element such as a CCD for converting into an electrical signal.

  The image forming unit 240 includes a photoconductor. Around the photoconductor, a charging device that uniformly charges the photoconductor, a scanning exposure unit that scans a light beam based on image data, and the scanning exposure unit. An image developing unit that develops the electrostatic latent image formed by scanning exposure, a transfer unit that transfers the developed image on the photoreceptor to a recording sheet, and a surface of the photoreceptor after the transfer are cleaned. And a cleaning unit. A fixing unit for fixing the image on the recording paper after transfer is provided on the recording paper conveyance path.

  In the image processing apparatus 10, an outlet 245 is attached to the tip of the input power supply line 244. By inserting the outlet 245 into the wiring plate 243 of the commercial power supply 242 wired up to the wall surface W, the image processing apparatus 10 The power supply is received from the commercial power source 242.

(Control system hardware configuration of image processing apparatus)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the hardware configuration of the control system of the image processing apparatus 10.

  The network line network 20 is connected to the main controller 200. A facsimile communication control circuit 236, an image reading unit 238, an image forming unit 240, and a UI touch panel 216 are connected to the main controller 200 via buses 33A to 33D such as a data bus and a control bus, respectively. In other words, the main controller 200 is the main body, and each processing unit of the image processing apparatus 10 is controlled. Note that a UI touch panel backlight unit (see FIG. 4) may be attached to the UI tile panel 216.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a power supply device 202, and is connected to the main controller 200 via a bus 33E. The power supply device 202 is supplied with power from the commercial power supply 242. The power supply device 202 includes power supply lines 35 </ b> A to 35 </ b> D that supply power independently to the main controller 200, the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, the image forming unit 240, and the UI touch panel 216. Yes. For this reason, the main controller 200 individually supplies power to each processing unit (device) (power supply mode) or shuts off the power supply (sleep mode) to enable so-called partial power saving control.

  In addition, two human sensors (first human sensor 28 and second human sensor 30) are connected to the main controller 200, and the presence or absence of a person around the image processing apparatus 10 is monitored. ing. The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 will be described later.

(Functional block diagram with a partial power-saving configuration)
FIG. 4 shows a processing unit controlled by the main controller 200 (sometimes referred to as “load”, “device”, “module”, etc.), a main controller 200, and a power source for supplying power to each device. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram mainly using a power supply line of the device 202. FIG. In the first embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 can supply or not supply power in units of processing units (partial power saving).

  The partial power saving in units of processing units is an example, and the processing units may be classified into several groups to control power savings in units of groups, or the processing units may be collectively controlled to save power. .

[Main controller 200]
As shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 200 includes a CPU 204, a RAM 206, a ROM 208, an I / O (input / output unit) 210, and a bus 212 such as a data bus and a control bus for connecting them. A UI touch panel 216 (including a backlight unit 216BL) is connected to the I / O 210 via a UI control circuit 214. A hard disk (HDD) 218 is connected to the I / O 210. The functions of the main controller 200 are realized by the CPU 204 operating based on programs recorded in the ROM 208, the hard disk 218, and the like. The program is installed from a recording medium (CD, DVD, BD (Blu-ray Disc), USB memory, SD memory, etc.) storing the program, and the CPU 204 operates based on the program to realize an image processing function. May be.

  A timer circuit 220 and a communication line I / F 222 are connected to the I / O 210. Further, the I / O 210 is connected to each device of a facsimile communication control circuit (modem) 236, an image reading unit 238, and an image forming unit 240.

  The timer circuit 220 counts time as a trigger for putting the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 into a power saving state (power supply non-supply state) (hereinafter, “ Sometimes called system timer).

  The main controller 200 and each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are supplied with power from the power supply device 202 (see the dotted line in FIG. 4). In FIG. 4, the power supply line is shown by one line (dotted line), but in reality it is two to three wires.

[Power supply device 202]
As shown in FIG. 4, the input power supply line 244 drawn from the commercial power supply 242 is connected to the main switch 246. When the main switch 246 is turned on, power can be supplied to the first power supply unit 248 and the second power supply unit 250 via the interlock 14.

  The first power supply unit 248 includes a control power generation unit 248A and is connected to the power supply control circuit 252 of the main controller 200. The power supply control circuit 252 supplies power to the main controller 200 and is connected to the I / O 210. According to the control program of the main controller 200, each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240). Switching control for conducting / non-conducting the power supply line to) is performed.

  On the other hand, a first sub power switch 256 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-1”) is interposed in the power line 254 connected to the second power unit 250. This SW-1 is preferably a relay switch that involves a mechanical operation in the contact switching operation, and the power supply control circuit 252 controls on / off. The SW-1 corresponds to a relay switch 14RLY provided in the interlock unit 14.

  The second power supply unit 250 includes a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1). The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) is a power supply mainly used for a motor or the like.

  The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) of the second power supply unit 250 are selectively supplied with an image reading unit power supply unit 258, an image forming unit power supply unit 260, and a facsimile communication control circuit power supply. 264 and a UI touch panel power supply unit 266.

  The image reading unit power supply unit 258 uses the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as an input source, and the image reading unit 238 via a second sub power switch 268 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-2”). It is connected to the.

  The image forming unit power supply unit 260 uses a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources, and a third sub power switch 270 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-3”). And connected to the image forming unit 240.

  The facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 264 may be referred to as a fourth sub power switch 274 (hereinafter “SW-4”) with the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources. ) To the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the image forming unit 240.

  The UI touch panel power supply unit 266 uses a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) and a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as input sources, and a fifth sub power switch 276 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-5”). Via the UI touch panel 216 (including the backlight unit 216BL). Note that power may be supplied from the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 to the original functions of the UI touch panel 216 (functions excluding the backlight unit 216BL).

  Similarly to the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fourth sub power switch 274, and the fifth sub power switch 276 are the main controller 200. On / off control is performed based on the power supply selection signal from the power supply control circuit 252. Although not shown, the switches and wirings to which the 24V power supply unit 250H and the 5V power supply unit 250L are supplied are composed of two systems. In addition, the power switches 268 to 276 may be arranged not in the power supply apparatus 202 but in each device to which power is supplied.

  In the above configuration, power is supplied to select each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) for each function, and power is not supplied to devices unnecessary for the instructed function. Minimal power is required.

  FIG. 7 is a wiring diagram specialized for power supply lines to the devices and the like in the power supply apparatus 202. In other words, although the signal transmission / reception relationship is omitted in FIG. 7, the wiring structure is the wiring described in FIGS. 3 and 4, and therefore the detailed wiring structure is omitted. The characteristic part in 1st Embodiment is demonstrated.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the first power supply unit 248 of the power supply device 202 keeps the power supply control circuit 252 energized.

  The power supply control circuit 252 constantly supplies power to the power saving monitoring control unit 24. Thereby, for example, even when power is not supplied to the main controller 200 (sleep mode), power is supplied to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24, which functions as a discrimination control unit.

  The power saving monitoring control unit 24 supplies power to the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30, and the power saving control button 26 (sometimes simply referred to as “power saving button 26”). The power supply timing depends on the control of the power saving monitoring control unit 24.

  Further, the power saving monitoring control unit 24 supplies power to the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the UI control circuit 214. These are those that may accept external input signals such as facsimile reception and server print even during the sleep mode.

  Further, the second power supply unit 250 of the power supply device 202 selectively supplies power to the UI touch panel backlight 216BL, the IC card reader 217, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240. The power supply to each depends on the power supply control circuit 252.

(Supervisory control for state transition of image processing device)
Here, the main controller 200 according to the first embodiment may partially stop its function so that the necessary minimum power consumption is achieved. Alternatively, the power supply may be stopped including most of the main controller 200. These may be collectively referred to as “sleep mode (power saving mode)” (see FIG. 5).

  The sleep mode can be shifted, for example, by starting a system timer when image processing is completed. That is, the power supply is stopped when a predetermined time elapses after the system timer is started. If there is any operation (hard key operation, etc.) before a predetermined time (for example, corresponding to step 104 in FIG. 9) elapses, the timer count to the sleep mode is naturally canceled, The system timer is started from the end of the next image processing.

  On the other hand, during the sleep mode, a power-saving monitoring control unit 24 is connected to the I / O 210 as an element that constantly receives power. The power-saving monitoring control unit 24 can be configured by, for example, an ASIC, which is called an ASIC, stores an operation program by itself and is processed by the operation program, an IC chip including a CPU, a RAM, a ROM, and the like. .

  By the way, in the monitoring during power saving, for example, a print request is received from the communication line detection unit or a FAX reception request is received from the FAX line detection unit. In the unit 24, the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fourth sub power switch 274, and the fifth sub power supply are connected via the power supply control circuit 252. It is assumed that power is supplied by controlling the switch 276.

  In addition, a power saving control button 26 is connected to the I / O 210 of the main controller 200, and power saving can be canceled by a user operating the power saving control button 26 during power saving. The power saving control button 26 may be operated when power is supplied to the processing unit, thereby forcibly cutting off the power supply to the processing unit and setting the power saving state. Good.

  Here, in order to monitor in the sleep mode, it is preferable to supply the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit to the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit in addition to the power saving monitoring control unit 24 while the power is being saved. That is, even in the sleep mode in which the power is not supplied, there is a case where the power is not more than a predetermined power (for example, 0.5 W or less) and is supplied with the power necessary for determining whether to supply power. is there. The power supply source at this time is not limited to the commercial power source 242, but may be a storage battery, a solar battery, a charger charged when power is supplied from the commercial power source 242, or the like.

  In addition, in a specific period of the sleep mode (in the awake mode (awk) shown in FIG. 5), a minimum necessary power supply mainly including an input system such as the UI touch panel 216 and the IC card reader 217 is included (the backlight unit 216BL is installed). It is preferable to remove or reduce the illuminance than usual).

  By the way, when the user stands in front of the image processing apparatus 10 in the sleep mode and then operates the power saving control button 26 to restart the power supply, it may take time until the image processing apparatus 10 starts up. .

  Therefore, in the first embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are installed in the power-saving monitoring control unit 24, and the user saves the power-saving control button 26 in the sleep mode. Before the operation (pressing etc.) is detected by the human sensor (the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30) and the power supply is restarted at an early stage. You can use it faster than starting to use it. Although the power saving control button 26, the first human sensor 28, and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, all the monitoring is performed only by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It is also possible to perform.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 include detection units 28A and 30A and circuit board units 28B and 30B, and the circuit board units 28B and 30B The sensitivity of the signals detected by the detection units 28A and 30A is adjusted and an output signal is generated.

  The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are “human feeling”, but this is a proper noun according to the first embodiment, and at least human detection (“ (It is synonymous with “detection”.) In other words, it also includes detection of a moving body other than a person. Therefore, in the following, the detection target of the human sensor may be referred to as “person”, but in the future, a robot or the like that executes on behalf of the person is also a detection target range. On the other hand, when there is a special sensor that can be detected by identifying a person, the special sensor can be applied. Hereinafter, a moving body, a person, a user, and the like are treated as synonymous as objects to be detected by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, and are distinguished as necessary.

  The specification of the first human sensor 28 according to the first embodiment is to detect the movement of the moving body around the image processing apparatus 10. In this case, an infrared sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element is representative (pyroelectric sensor). In the first embodiment, a pyroelectric sensor is applied as the first human sensor 28.

  The greatest feature of the sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element applied to the first human sensor 28 is that the detection area is wide. Further, in order to detect the movement of the moving body, the presence of the person is not detected if the person is stationary within the detection region. For example, when a high-level signal is output when a person moves, the signal becomes a low-level signal when a person within the detection range stops.

  Note that “still” in the first embodiment naturally includes complete stillness such as a still image taken with a still camera or the like. For example, a person stops in front of the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of operation. Including that. Accordingly, a case where a predetermined range of fine movement (such as movement accompanying breathing) or movement of a limb, neck, or the like is set as a stationary category.

  However, if a person performs a stretching exercise or the like in front of the image processing apparatus 10 while waiting for processing such as image formation or image reading, the human sensor 28 may detect the presence of the person. .

Accordingly, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is not adjusted by adjusting the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28, but the sensitivity is adjusted relatively roughly and standardly. You may make it depend on a state. That is, when the first human sensor 28 outputs one of the binary signals (for example, a high-level signal), it indicates that the person is moving , and the first human sensor 28 detects it. A case where a person is present in the area and another one of the binary signals (for example, a low level signal) is output may be set to be stationary.

  On the other hand, the specification of the second human sensor 30 according to the first embodiment is applied to detect the presence / absence (presence / absence) of a moving body. The sensor applied to the second human sensor 30 is typically a reflective sensor having a light projecting part and a light receiving part (reflective sensor). Note that the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit may be separated.

  The greatest feature of the reflective sensor or the like applied to the second human sensor 30 is to reliably detect the presence or absence of a moving body by blocking / not blocking light entering the light receiving unit. In addition, since the amount of light incident on the light receiving unit is limited by the amount of light projected from the light projecting unit, a relatively short distance is the detection region.

  If the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 can achieve the following functions, the first human sensor 28 may be a pyroelectric sensor or a second human sensor. The human sensor 30 is not limited to a reflective sensor.

  Here, in the first embodiment, two regions (the first region F and the second region N in FIG. 6) are set by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. .

  The first region F in FIG. 6 which is a relatively distant detection region (sometimes simply referred to as “region F”) is a detection region by the first human sensor 28 and serves as a remote mobile body detection means. It has a function. Further, the second region N in FIG. 6 (which may be simply referred to as “region N”), which is a relatively close detection region, is a detection region by the second human sensor 30 and is a proximity moving body detection unit. As a function.

  The detection area of the first human sensor 28 (see the first area F in FIG. 6) is about 2 to 3 m as a guide, although it depends on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed. On the other hand, the detection area of the second human sensor 30 (see the second area N in FIG. 6) is a range in which the UI touch panel 216 and hard keys of the image processing apparatus 10 can be operated. It is about 0.5 m.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the relationship between the moving object (user) and the image processing apparatus 10 is roughly divided into three forms. In the first form, a person operates the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of use. The form approaching to the possible position (see the trend of arrow A in FIG. 6 (A pattern)), the second form is a form in which the person approaches the operable position, although the processing device is not intended for use ( In the third form, the person does not approach the operable position of the processing apparatus, but the third form is likely to shift to the first form or the second form. It is the form (refer the trend (C pattern) of the C line arrow of FIG. 6) which is made to a certain distance.

  In the first embodiment, by distinguishing human trends into at least the A pattern to the C pattern, the state of the image processing apparatus 10, in particular, the power supply state from the sleep mode is started, or the power supply state sleeps. Controls falling to mode.

  Here, the interlock unit 14 according to the first embodiment performs contact switching of the relay switch 14RLY in which the contact is switched with mechanical operation in the power supply state depending on the power supply state from the commercial power supply 242. It has occurred.

In particular, when the first human sensor 28 is installed and the start-up from the sleep mode and the start- down to the sleep mode are repeated, the number of switching of the contact of the relay switch 14RLY increases. In the following description, the startup (power supply state) and the shutdown (power cutoff state) for the sleep mode may be referred to as “pair” and may be referred to as “sleep return count”. That is, the start-up and the stand-down mean contact or separation of the contact of the relay switch 14RLY, and therefore, the “sleep return count” is counted as one reciprocal operation. In addition, you may make it count once at an outward path and once at a return path.

  In the first embodiment, the contact switching frequency of the relay switch 14RLY is prevented from increasing from the viewpoint of a monthly unit and a year unit that are longer than the daily unit, and the life of the relay switch 14RLY is extended. . More specifically, as shown in FIG. 8B, when the horizontal axis is the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of return from sleep, and the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period, The purpose is to reduce the number of sleep return times when life is not prolonged by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). In other words, the purpose is to extend the operation period of the image processing apparatus 10 that reaches the number of sleep return times after reduction (about 250,000 times in FIG. 8B) (difference when the vertical axis is fixed).

In the first embodiment, the sleep transition adjusting means 1 is used as a means for extending the life of the relay switch 14RLY so as to adjust the transition (startup ) from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

(Sleep transition adjustment means 1)
The sleep shift adjustment unit 1 is characterized in that the sleep shift time is extended as the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 increases.

  FIG. 8A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the sleep transition time, and the sleep transition time is lengthened in direct proportion. The sleep transition time that changes in direct proportion in the sleep transition adjustment unit 1 corresponds to a fixed time in steps 104 and 108 of the flowchart of FIG.

  Each time the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode, the sleep transition time counts the number of times of return and is extended by 1 second for each count. Note that the count unit and the extension time unit are not limited. For example, every time the count value counts 100, the sleep transition time may be extended by 10 seconds.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 1, it is not necessary to obtain any information during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, and theoretically, if the sleep shift time is changed based on the calculation formula (y = ax + b). Good (in actual processing, a processing flowchart is constructed in which a certain time is added to the sleep transition time every certain count). Further, the inclination (corresponding to “a” in the above calculation formula / a is a positive number) may be constant or set to a reference inclination in advance, so that the frequency of use of the user and the human impression Based on the accuracy (error detection rate, etc.) of the sensors 28 and 30, an input means for manual adjustment may be provided, or automatic adjustment may be performed periodically. As long as the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 increases, the sleep transition time may be extended not only by a linear function but also by a quadratic function or the like as a quadratic function.

  The operation of the first embodiment will be described below.

(Mode transition of power supply control of image processing apparatus 10 (device))
First, based on FIG. 5, a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus 10 is shown.

  If the image processing apparatus 10 has not been processed, the operation state is the sleep mode. In the first embodiment, power is supplied only to the power saving monitoring control unit 24.

  Here, when there is a startup trigger (detection of a startup trigger or operation input (key input) of the UI touch panel 216 or the like), the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  Note that after the start trigger is triggered, the sleep mode may still be defined, and only the UI touch panel 216 may be activated, or only the power saving monitoring control unit 24 may be powered by the activation of the UI touch panel 216. Since the power supply amount increases more, the awake mode “awk” (wake-up mode) may be defined (see the parentheses [] in the sleep mode range in the transition diagram of FIG. 5). When there is an operation input (key input) on the UI touch panel 216 or the like in this awake mode, the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  The startup trigger mainly includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the second human sensor 30. Note that a power-saving canceling operation by the operator may be used as a startup trigger.

  In the warm-up mode, the image processing apparatus 10 is brought into a processable state quickly, so that the maximum power consumption in each mode is achieved. For example, by using an IH heater as a heater in the fixing unit, a halogen lamp is used. The warm-up mode time is relatively shorter than the heater used.

  When the warm-up operation in the warm-up mode is completed, the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the standby mode.

  The standby mode is literally a “preparation is complete in preparation” mode, and the image processing apparatus 10 is ready to execute an image processing operation.

  For this reason, when there is a job execution operation as a key input, the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the running mode, and image processing based on the instructed job is executed.

  When the image processing is completed (when a plurality of continuous jobs are waiting, when all the continuous jobs are completed), the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 is changed to the standby mode by the standby trigger. Note that, after image processing, timing by a system timer may be started, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, a standby trigger may be output to transition to the standby mode.

  If there is a job execution instruction during the standby mode, the mode transits to the running mode again, and when the falling trigger is detected or a predetermined time elapses, the mode transits to the sleep mode.

  The falling trigger includes a signal, information, and the like based on the detection result by the second human sensor 30. A system timer may be used in combination.

  Further, the mode state transitions in the actual operation of the image processing apparatus 10 do not all proceed in time series as shown in this timing chart. For example, the process may be stopped in the standby mode after the warm-up mode and the mode may be shifted to the sleep mode.

  Here, each device that operates by receiving the supply of power can immediately execute each process by shifting from the sleep mode in FIG. 5 to the standby mode through the awake mode and the warm-up mode.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment transits between the modes, and the power supply amount is different for each mode.

  In the image processing apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment, when predetermined conditions (for example, the moving object (user) leaving information by the human sensor 30 or the falling trigger output due to the time-up of the system timer) are met. Transition to sleep mode. In this sleep mode, power is supplied not only to the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240, but also to the main controller 200 excluding the power saving monitoring control unit 24, and the UI touch panel 216. Cut off. In this case, it is preferable that the function of the power saving control button 26 connected to the main controller 200 is also stopped. For this reason, when the image processing apparatus 10 is viewed from the periphery, the state is almost the same as the state where the main power switch is turned off. That is, it is possible to confirm from the surroundings that the sleep mode is being executed reliably (realization of “visualization”).

  The devices of the image processing apparatus 10 (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are referred to as energy saving and convenience based on the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. Taking into account the contradictory purpose, appropriate mode transition (particularly, starting from the sleep mode and falling to the sleep mode) is performed. In this case, it is assumed that the detection system such as the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 is always supplied with electric power. It is to be noted that only the first human sensor 28 is constantly supplied with electric power, and electric power is supplied to the second human sensor 30 when the moving object (user) is detected by the first human sensor 28. You may do it.

(Sleep mode transition control)
Hereinafter, according to the flowchart of FIG. 9, a flow of control specialized for startup from the sleep mode and shutdown to the sleep mode is shown. In FIG. 9, the start-up is performed by detection of the human sensor 28, and the start-up is performed by counting the system timer while omitting the use of the detection state of the human sensor 30 described above. .

  FIG. 9 is an execution control routine at the time of sleep mode transition. In step 100, it is determined whether or not the moving sensor (user) is detected by the human sensor 28. If the determination is negative, this routine ends. To do.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 100, the process proceeds to step 102, the relay switch 14 RLY is turned on to return the main converter 250 and the process proceeds to step 104 in order to shift the mode to the standby mode.

  In step 104, it is determined whether or not the image processing apparatus 10 such as the UI touch panel 216 has been operated within a predetermined time.

  If the determination in step 104 is negative, that is, if there is no operation for a certain period of time, the routine proceeds to step 110 and the sleep mode is entered, and this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 104, the process proceeds to step 106 to monitor the process based on the operation. That is, it is each device that actually executes processing, and the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 controls the processing. For example, when this routine is performed by the monitoring control unit 24, It is necessary to monitor the processing state and recognize that the processing has ended. During this time, when the process is completed, the device enters a standby mode.

  In the next step 108, it is determined whether or not the image processing apparatus 10 such as the UI touch panel 216 has been operated within a certain time after the transition to the standby mode.

  When an affirmative determination is made at step 108, the routine proceeds to step 106 and the above process is repeated.

  If a negative determination is made in step 108, that is, if there is no operation for a certain period of time, the routine proceeds to step 110 and the sleep mode is entered, and this routine ends.

  The above is the execution control at the time of sleep mode transition, and basically, the sleep mode transition time is determined by the flowchart of FIG.

  By the way, the circuit configuration of the interlock unit 14 depends on the power supply state from the commercial power supply 242, and the contact switching of the relay switch 14RLY in which the contact is switched with a mechanical operation in the power supply state occurs.

That is, in the first embodiment, by having established a motion sensor (especially first motion sensor 28), raised from the sleep mode, and (sleep return the number of times the falling is repeated to the sleep mode ). Since the number of times of return from sleep corresponds to the number of contact switching of the relay switch 14RLY, for example, if there are many erroneous detections of the first human sensor 28, the contact switching frequency of the relay switch 14RLY increases unnecessarily.

  Therefore, as the number of sleep recovery times accumulates, the time until the transition from the sleep mode to the standby mode (start-up) is adjusted.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the first embodiment.

  In step 112, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 112, the process proceeds to step 114, the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 116.

  In step 116, it is determined whether or not it is time to adjust the sleep transition time. In the first embodiment, it is determined whether or not a predetermined count has been reached since the previous adjustment. In this case, the minimum unit of the predetermined count number is possible from every count. Further, the maximum unit is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to adjust every 100 counts to 1000 counts based on the number of life operations (about 50000 to 300000 times) of the relay switch 14RLY.

  If a negative determination is made in step 116, it is determined that it is not time to adjust the sleep transition time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 116, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sleep transition time, and the routine proceeds to step 118.

  In step 118, the extension time is read. For example, if the determination in step 116 is every count, the read extension time is preferably about 1 to 10 seconds, and if every 100 counts, it is preferably about 10 to 100 seconds.

  In the next step 120, the extension time read in step 118 is added to the current sleep transition time, and the routine proceeds to step 122.

  In step 122, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the fixed time in steps 104 and 108 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis shows the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis shows the sleep transition time shown in FIG. 8A changes in a directly proportional relationship. As shown in FIG. 8B, when the horizontal axis is the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of returning from sleep, the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period and the life is not extended. Is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

  Hereinafter, other embodiments (sleep transition adjusting means 2 to 7) with respect to the sleep transition adjusting means 1 described in the first embodiment will be described.

“Second Embodiment”
A feature of the sleep shift adjustment unit 2 is that the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 is divided, and the sleep shift time is extended or shortened depending on whether or not the number of sleep return times exceeds an allowable range in the divided period. It is in.

  FIG. 11A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the sleep transition time, and the sleep transition time increases or decreases in a staircase pattern. The sleep transition time that changes stepwise in the sleep transition adjustment unit 2 corresponds to a certain time in steps 104 and 108 in the flowchart of FIG.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 2, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the sleep mode shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

  In this sleep shift adjustment means 2, the count number is set to a preset reference value (allowable value) for every operation time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. When the count number exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, control is performed to extend or shorten the sleep transition time.

  In this sleep shift adjustment means 2, the adjustment is made during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, so that it is possible to set a sleep shift time suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the second embodiment.

  In step 124, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 124, the process proceeds to step 126, the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 128.

  In step 128, it is determined whether or not it is time to adjust the sleep transition time. In the second embodiment, the sleep transition time adjustment timing is set every certain period from the time of initial operation (installation) of the image processing apparatus 10. For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If the determination in step 128 is negative, it is determined that it is not time to adjust the sleep transition time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 128, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sleep transition time, and the routine proceeds to step 130.

  In step 130, the reference value CB of the count value of the number of times of returning from sleep is read, and then the process proceeds to step 132, where the current count value CA is compared with the read reference value CB.

  In the next step 134, the sleep transition time ts is increased or decreased based on the result of the comparison.

  For example, when CB> CA, a predetermined correction time Δts is added to the sleep transition time ts (ts ← ts + Δts). If CB <CA, the predetermined correction time Δts is subtracted from the sleep transition time ts (ts ← ts−Δts). If CB = CA, the current sleep transition time ts is maintained (ts ← ts).

  In the next step 136, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the fixed time in steps 104 and 108 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram of the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 in the horizontal axis and the sleep transition time in the vertical axis shown in FIG. 11A is increased or decreased stepwise. 11 (B), the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10, the vertical axis represents the number of times of returning from sleep, and when the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period, the sleep when life is not extended. The number of return times is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

“Third embodiment”
The sleep shift adjustment means 3 is characterized by dividing the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and whether or not the number of times of returning from sleep exceeds the allowable range in the divided period and the degree of exceeding the allowable range. The sleep transition time is extended depending on the (number of stages).

  FIG. 13A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the sleep transition time. The sleep transition time increases or decreases in a staircase pattern. The sleep transition time that changes stepwise in the sleep transition adjustment means 3 corresponds to a fixed time in steps 104 and 108 in the flowchart of FIG.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 2, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the sleep mode shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 3, the count number is set to a reference value (allowable value) set in advance for each operating time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. If the count value exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, the adjustment amount set based on the degree when the count value is exceeded is read and the sleep transition time Control to extend.

  In this sleep shift adjustment means 3, adjustment is made during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, and therefore it is possible to set a sleep shift time suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the third embodiment.

  In step 138, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 138, the process proceeds to step 140, where the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 142.

In step 142, it is determined whether or not it is time to adjust the sleep transition time. In the third embodiment, the sleep transition time adjustment timing is set every certain period from the time of initial operation (installation) of the image processing apparatus 10. For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If a negative determination is made in step 142, it is determined that it is not time to adjust the sleep transition time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 142, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sleep transition time, and the process proceeds to step 144.

  In step 144, a plurality of stepwise reference values CB (N) in the count value of the number of times of returning from sleep are read (N is a positive integer), and then the process proceeds to step 146, where the current count value CA and the read reference value are read. Compare with CB (N).

  In the next step 148, based on the result of the comparison, the position of the current count value CA, that is, the number of stages above or below any of the plurality of reference values CB (N) is specified. The sleep transition time ts is increased or decreased based on the identified number of stages.

  For example, when CB (1) ≦ CA <CB (2), a predetermined correction time Δts (0) is added to the sleep transition time ts (ts ← ts + Δts (0)). When CB (2) ≦ CA <CB (3), a predetermined correction time Δts (1) is added to the sleep transition time ts (ts ← ts + Δts (1)). Further, when CB (n−1) ≦ CA <CB (n), a predetermined correction time Δts (n) is added to the sleep transition time ts (ts ← ts + Δts (n)). The reference value CB (N) has a higher level as the N value increases, and the correction time Δts also increases accordingly. Therefore, the larger the difference from the count value predicted in advance, the longer the correction time.

  In the next step 152, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the fixed time in steps 104 and 108 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis indicates the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis indicates the sleep transition time shown in FIG. 13A changes stepwise, and according to this change, FIG. As shown in (B), when the horizontal axis is the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of returning from sleep, and the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period, the return from sleep when life is not extended. The number of times is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

“Fourth embodiment”
The sleep shift adjustment unit 4 is characterized in that the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is adjusted as the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 increases.

  In FIG. 15A, the horizontal axis indicates the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10, and the vertical axis indicates the detection range of the first human sensor 28 (detectable region, hereinafter, the detectable region may be indicated by a virtual circle with a radius). And the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is decreased in a directly proportional manner (the slope is negative). The sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 that changes in direct proportion in the sleep shift adjustment unit 4 corresponds to the sensitivity in step 100 of the flowchart of FIG.

  The sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is such that the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the sleep mode shifts to the standby mode, and the radius of the detectable region is reduced by 0.1 cm for each count. Is done. The count unit and the reduction area unit are not limited. For example, every time the count value is counted 100, the radius of the detectable area may be reduced by 1 cm.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 4, it is not necessary to obtain any information during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, and theoretically, based on the calculation formula (y = −ax + b), the first human sensor 28 It is only necessary to adjust the sensitivity (in the actual processing, a processing flowchart for reducing the radius by a certain length for every certain count is constructed). Further, the inclination (corresponding to “−a” in the above calculation formula / a is a positive number) may be constant, set in advance as a reference inclination, Based on the accuracy (false detection rate, etc.) of the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, input means for manual adjustment may be provided, or automatic adjustment may be performed periodically. . If the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is reduced (the detection area is reduced) as the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 increases, the number of functions such as a quadratic function is not limited to a linear function. It may be changed in the following function.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the fourth embodiment.

  In step 154, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 154, the process proceeds to step 156, where the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 158.

In step 158, it is determined whether it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity. In the fourth embodiment, it is determined whether or not a predetermined count has been reached since the previous adjustment. In this case, the minimum unit of the predetermined count number is possible from every count. Further, the maximum unit is not particularly limited, but it is preferable to adjust every 100 counts to 1000 counts based on the number of life operations (about 50000 to 300000 times) of the relay switch 14RLY.

  If a negative determination is made in step 158, it is determined that it is not the sensor sensitivity adjustment time, and this routine ends. If the determination in step 158 is affirmative, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity, and the process proceeds to step 160.

  In step 160, the sensitivity attenuation rate is read. For example, if the determination in step 158 is every 1 count, the read sensitivity attenuation rate is about 0.1 cm to 1.0 cm in radius reduction, and every 100 counts is about 1 cm to 10 cm reduction. Is preferred.

  In the next step 162, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is adjusted based on the sensitivity attenuation rate read in step 160, and the process proceeds to step 164.

  In step 164, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the sensitivity in step 100 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic graph of the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis of the detection range of the first human sensor 28 shown in FIG. 15A is directly proportional (the inclination is minus). As shown in FIG. 15B, the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10, the vertical axis represents the number of times of return from sleep, and the image processing apparatus 10 is kept in the same period. In the case of operation, the number of times of returning from sleep when the life is not extended is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

"Fifth embodiment"
The sleep shift adjustment means 5 is characterized in that the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 is divided and the sensor sensitivity is adjusted depending on whether or not the number of sleep return times exceeds an allowable range in the divided period.

  FIG. 17A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the detection range of the first human sensor 28. The detection of the first human sensor 28 in a step shape. The range has increased or decreased. The detection range of the first human sensor 28 that changes in a stepped manner in the sleep shift adjusting means 5 corresponds to the sensor sensitivity in step 100 of the flowchart of FIG.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 2, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the sleep mode shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

  In this sleep shift adjustment means 5, the count number is set to a reference value (allowable value) set in advance for every operating time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. When the count number exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, the detection range of the first human sensor 28 is controlled to be enlarged or reduced. Specifically, the radius of the detection area of the first human sensor 28 is increased or decreased by adjusting the sensor sensitivity.

  Since the sleep shift adjustment unit 5 performs adjustment during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, it is possible to set the sensor sensitivity suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the fifth embodiment.

  In step 166, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 166, the process proceeds to step 168, the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of returning from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 170.

In step 170, it is determined whether it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity. In the fifth embodiment, the sensor sensitivity adjustment timing is set every certain period from the initial operation time (installation time) of the image processing apparatus 10. For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If a negative determination is made in step 170, it is determined that it is not the sensor sensitivity adjustment time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 170, it is determined that it is the sensor sensitivity adjustment time, and the routine proceeds to step 172.

  In step 172, the reference value CB of the count value of the number of times of returning from sleep is read, and then the process proceeds to step 174, where the current count value CA and the read reference value CB are compared.

  In the next step 176, the sensitivity Ss of the first human sensor 28 is increased or decreased based on the result of the comparison.

For example, when CB> CA, a predetermined correction sensitivity ΔSs is added to the sensitivity Ss of the first human sensor 28 (Ss ← Ss + ΔSs). When CB <CA, the predetermined correction sensitivity ΔSs is subtracted from the sensitivity Ss of the first human sensor 28 (Ss ← Ss−ΔSs). When CB = CA, the current sensitivity Ss of the first human sensor 28 is maintained (Ss ← Ss).

  In the next step 178, the newly set sensitivity Ss of the first human sensor 28 is set as the sensitivity in step 100 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram of the operating range of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis of the detection range of the first human sensor 28 shown in FIG. In accordance with this change, as shown in FIG. 17B, when the horizontal axis is the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of return from sleep, the life is extended when the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period. The number of times of returning from sleep when the change is not made is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

“Sixth embodiment”
The sleep shift adjustment means 6 is characterized by dividing the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, whether or not the number of times of returning from sleep exceeds the allowable range in the divided period, and the degree of exceeding the allowable range The sensor sensitivity is adjusted according to the (number of stages).

  FIG. 19A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the detection range of the first human sensor 28. The detection of the first human sensor 28 in stages. The range is decreasing. The change in the detection range of the first human sensor 28 in the sleep shift adjustment means 6 corresponds to the sensor sensitivity in step 100 of the flowchart of FIG.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 6, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the sleep mode shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 6, the count number is set to a preset reference value (allowable value) for each operation time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. When the count number exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, the amount of increase / decrease set based on the degree when the count is exceeded is read, and the first The sensitivity of the human sensor 28 is controlled. Specifically, the radius of the detection area, which is the detection range of the first human sensor 28, is adjusted.

  In the sleep shift adjustment unit 6, adjustment is performed during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, and thus it is possible to set a sleep shift time suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a sleep transition time adjustment control routine according to the sixth embodiment.

  In step 180, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 180, the process proceeds to step 182, where the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 184.

  In step 184, it is determined whether it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity. In the first embodiment, the sensor sensitivity adjustment timing is set every certain period from the initial operation (installation) of the image processing apparatus 10. For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If a negative determination is made in step 184, it is determined that it is not the sensor sensitivity adjustment time, and this routine ends. If the determination in step 184 is affirmative, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity, and the process proceeds to step 186.

  In step 186, a plurality of stepwise reference values CB (N) in the count value of the number of times of returning from sleep are read (N is a positive integer), and then the process proceeds to step 188, where the current count value CA and the read reference value are read. Compare with CB (N).

In the next step 190, based on the result of the comparison, the position of the current count value CA, that is, the number of stages above or below any of the plurality of reference values CB (N) is specified, and then the process goes to step 194. and migrated, based on the identified number of stages, to increase or decrease the sensitivity S s of the first motion sensor 28.

For example, CB (1) ≦ CA added <CB correction sensitivity [Delta] S (0) determined in advance in sensitivity Ss For (2) (Ss ← Ss + ΔS (0)). Moreover, CB (2) ≦ CA < CB (3) adding the correction sensitivity [Delta] S (1) determined in advance in sensitivity Ss For (Ss ← Ss + ΔS (1 )). Moreover, CB (n-1) ≦ CA added <CB correction sensitivity [Delta] S in the case of which predetermined sensitivity Ss (n) (n) ( Ss ← Ss + ΔS (n)). The reference value CB (N) has a higher level as the N value increases, and the correction sensitivity ΔS increases accordingly. Therefore, the greater the difference from the count value predicted in advance, the greater the correction sensitivity.

In the next step 194, the newly set sensitivity Ss is set as the sensor sensitivity in step 100 of FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic graph of the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis of the detection range of the first human sensor 28 shown in FIG. In accordance with the change, as shown in FIG. 19B, when the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period with the horizontal axis as the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis as the number of times of return from sleep, the life is extended. The number of times of returning from sleep when not intended is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

“Seventh embodiment”
The sleep shift adjustment means 7 is characterized in that the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 is divided, and in the divided period, the ratio of the number of times of returning from sleep that the UI touch panel 216 or the like has not been operated at all after the return from sleep. In other words, when the false detection rate exceeds a predetermined reference value, the sleep transition time is extended (in some cases, shortened).

  FIG. 21A is a characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis represents the sleep transition time, and the sleep transition time increases stepwise. The sleep transition time adjusted by the sleep transition adjusting means 7 corresponds to a certain time in steps 104 and 108 in the flowchart of FIG.

  In the monitoring control unit 24, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the CPU 204 shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode. Further, the monitoring control unit 24 obtains operation information from the CPU 204 of the main controller 200, and there is no operation of the UI touch panel 216 or the like in spite of entering the standby mode, and the sleep transition time has elapsed, The number of transitions to the sleep mode again, that is, the number of erroneous detections is analyzed and counted.

  In addition, the monitoring control unit 24 sets the count number to a reference value (allowable value) set in advance for every operating time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. When the count number exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, control is performed to extend or shorten the sleep transition time.

  Since the adjustment is made during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, it is possible to set a sleep transition time suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing a sleep adjustment control routine according to the seventh embodiment.

  In step 300, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 300, the process proceeds to step 302, where the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 304.

In step 304, it is determined whether or not it is time to adjust the sleep transition time. In the seventh embodiment, the sleep transition time adjustment timing is set every certain period from the time when the image processing apparatus 10 is initially operated (at the time of installation). For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If the determination in step 304 is negative, it is determined that it is not time to adjust the sleep transition time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 304, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sleep transition time, and the process proceeds to step 306.

  In step 306, the operation information after returning from sleep is acquired, and then the process proceeds to step 308, and the false detection rate Rf is calculated based on the acquired operation information of the sleep return trace (Rf (%) = (error Number of times of detection / number of times of return from sleep) × 100).

  In the next step 310, the reference value Rb of the erroneous detection rate is read, and the process proceeds to step 312, where it is determined whether or not the calculated erroneous detection rate Rf exceeds the reference value Rb.

  If it is determined in step 312 that the calculated false detection rate Rf does not exceed the reference value Rb, this routine ends. If it is determined in step 312 that the calculated false detection rate Rf exceeds the reference value Rb (Rf ≧ Rb), the process proceeds to step 314 to read the extended time of the sleep transition time. . In the seventh embodiment, one extended time is fixed, but the extended time may be determined based on the false detection rate. That is, the higher the false detection rate, the higher the extended time may be correlated.

  In the next step 316, the read extended time is added to the sleep transition time, and the process proceeds to step 318.

  In step 318, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the fixed time in steps 104 and 108 in FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram in which the horizontal axis indicates the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis indicates the sleep transition time shown in FIG. 21A changes stepwise, and according to this change, FIG. As shown in (B), when the horizontal axis is the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of returning from sleep, and the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period, the return from sleep when life is not extended. The number of times is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

“Eighth embodiment”
The sleep shift adjustment unit 8 is characterized in that the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10 is divided, and in the divided period, the ratio that the UI touch panel 216 or the like is not operated at all after the sleep return in the number of sleep return times That is, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is adjusted when the false detection rate exceeds a predetermined reference value.

  In FIG. 23A, the horizontal axis represents the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10, and the vertical axis represents the detection range of the first human sensor 28 (detectable region, hereinafter, the detectable region may be indicated as a virtual circle by a radius). And the sleep transition time increases stepwise. The sensitivity of the adjustment first human sensor 28 in the sleep shift adjusting means 8 corresponds to the sensitivity in step 100 of the flowchart of FIG.

  In the monitoring control unit 24, the CPU 204 of the main controller 200 counts the number of times of return every time the CPU 204 shifts from the sleep mode to the standby mode. Further, the monitoring control unit 24 obtains operation information from the CPU 204 of the main controller 200, and there is no operation of the UI touch panel 216 or the like in spite of entering the standby mode, and the sleep transition time has elapsed, The number of times of transition to the sleep mode again, that is, the number of erroneous detections is analyzed and counted.

  In addition, the monitoring control unit 24 sets the count number to a reference value (allowable value) set in advance for every operating time (for example, every specific day, every week, every month, etc.) from the initial installation of the image processing apparatus 10. If the count number exceeds the reference value as a result of the comparison, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is adjusted. Specifically, the radius of the detection area of the first human sensor 28 is gradually reduced (in some cases, it may be enlarged).

  Since the adjustment is performed during the operation time of the image processing apparatus 10, it is possible to set the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 suitable for the actual number of sleep return times.

  FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a sleep adjustment control routine according to the eighth embodiment.

  In step 320, it is determined whether or not there has been a return from sleep. If a negative determination is made, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 320, the process proceeds to step 322, the cumulative counter that counts the number of times of return from sleep is incremented (+1), and the process proceeds to step 324.

In step 324, it is determined whether it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity. In the eighth embodiment, the sensor sensitivity adjustment timing is set every certain period from the initial operation time (installation time) of the image processing apparatus 10. For example, in extreme terms, it may be every day, every week, or every month.

  If a negative determination is made in step 324, it is determined that it is not the sensor sensitivity adjustment time, and this routine ends. If an affirmative determination is made in step 324, it is determined that it is time to adjust the sensor sensitivity, and the process proceeds to step 326.

  In step 326, operation information after returning from sleep is acquired, and then the process proceeds to step 328, and an erroneous detection rate Rf is calculated based on the acquired operation information of the sleep return trace (Rf (%) = (error Number of times of detection / number of times of return from sleep) × 100).

  In the next step 330, the reference value Rb of the erroneous detection rate is read, and the process proceeds to step 332, where it is determined whether or not the calculated erroneous detection rate Rf exceeds the reference value Rb.

  If it is determined in step 332 that the calculated erroneous detection rate Rf does not exceed the reference value Rb, this routine ends. If it is determined in step 332 that the calculated false detection rate Rf exceeds the reference value Rb (Rf ≧ Rb), the process proceeds to step 334 and the first human sensor 28 Read the sensitivity decay rate. In the eighth embodiment, the sensitivity attenuation rate for one time is fixed, but the sensitivity attenuation rate may be determined based on the false detection rate. In other words, the higher the false detection rate, the higher the sensitivity attenuation rate.

  In the next step 336, the sensitivity of the first human sensor 28 is adjusted according to the read sensitivity attenuation rate, and the process proceeds to step 338.

  In step 338, the newly set sleep transition time is set as the sensitivity in step 100 of FIG. 9, and this routine ends.

  By repeating this, the characteristic diagram of the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis of the detection range of the first human sensor 28 shown in FIG. 23A change in a directly proportional relationship. In accordance with this change, as shown in FIG. 23B, when the horizontal axis is the operating time of the image processing apparatus 10 and the vertical axis is the number of times of return from sleep, the image processing apparatus 10 is operated for the same period. When the life is not extended, the number of sleep return times is reduced by about 25% to 30% (difference when the horizontal axis is fixed). This is because the number of negative determinations in step 104 in FIG. 9 decreases.

  Hereinafter, a comparison table of the adjustment time, the adjustment object, and the adjustment requirements from the first embodiment to the eighth embodiment will be shown (see Table 1).

W Wall surface 10 Image processing device 20 Network communication network 21 PC
22 Telephone network 24 Power saving monitoring control unit 26 Power saving control button 28 First human sensor 30 Second human sensor 200 Main controller 204 CPU
206 RAM
208 ROM
210 I / O (input / output unit)
212 Bus 214 UI control circuit 216 UI touch panel 217 IC card reader 218 Hard disk 220 Timer circuit 222 Communication line I / F
236 Facsimile communication control circuit 238 Image reading unit 240 Image forming unit 242 Commercial power supply 243 Wiring plate 244 Input power supply line 245 Outlet 246 Main switch 248 First power supply unit 250 Second power supply unit 248A Control power generation unit 252 Power supply control Circuit 254 Power line 256 First sub power switch ("SW-1")
250H 24V power supply (LVPS2)
250L 5V power supply (LVPS1)
258 Image reading unit power supply unit 260 Image forming unit power supply unit 266 Facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 268 Second sub power switch (“SW-2”)
270 Third sub power switch ("SW-3")
274 Fourth sub power switch ("SW-4")
276 Sixth sub power switch ("SW-5")

Claims (8)

A load for executing a predetermined process by receiving power supply from the power supply unit and operating;
A moving body detecting means for detecting whether or not there is a moving body including a user who uses the load and is installed around the load as a detection area;
Power supply state transition control means for making a transition to a power supply state that receives power from the power supply unit or a power cut-off state that does not receive power supply from the power supply unit for at least the load,
Transition timing determination means for determining the transition timing by the power supply state transition control means by comparing the detection information by the moving body detection means and the timing information of a predetermined timing means with reference information, respectively.
Counting means for counting the number of transitions between the power supply state and the power cut-off state by the power supply state transition control means;
Correction means for correcting reference information for determination by the transition time determination means based on at least the number of transitions counted by the counting means;
Correct / incorrect determination means for determining correctness / incorrectness of determination in the transition time determination means based on operation information of the load after transition from the power cut-off state to the power supply state;
A correction possibility determination means for determining whether or not the correction of the reference information by the correction means is performed by comparing an error detection rate calculated from the determination result of the correctness determination means with a reference value;
A power supply control device.   2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the reference information corrected by the correcting means is reference information to be compared with the time information of the time measuring means. Reference information to further corrected to the correction means, the reference information to be compared with the information detected by the moving object detecting means is claim 1 or claim 2 power supply control apparatus according. The movable body detection means is at least one of a pyroelectric sensor having a relatively wide detection area and a reflective sensor having a relatively narrow detection area. The power supply control device according to item. The load is classified into a plurality of processing units that operate by receiving power supply and execute predetermined processes, and an instruction unit that selectively instructs the plurality of processing units at least on the processing contents. ,
As a mode to be shifted in the power cut-off state, a sleep mode for supplying power to a monitoring control unit for analyzing a detection result by the moving body detection unit, and an awake mode for supplying power to an instruction unit as necessary are provided. ,
As a mode to be shifted in the power supply state, a warm-up mode that is a preparation stage for starting up the processing unit from the sleep mode, a standby for supplying power to the processing unit lower than a normal time A plurality of modes including a running mode for supplying power during normal operation to the processing unit,
The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the mode is changed according to a processing status . A coil unit in which current is controlled based on electric power from a power supply unit as a primary side circuit, and a contact switching unit in which a contact is switched by a mechanical operation according to an energization state of the coil unit as a secondary side circuit, The contact of the contact switching unit is switched according to the transition by the power supply state transition control means, and the power supply wiring provided to supply power from the power supply unit to the load is connected by the operation of the contact switching unit. Or a relay for interrupting,
The power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the correction unit corrects the power supply state transition control unit to tend to decrease the number of transitions between the power supply state and the power cut-off state. . An image reading unit comprising the power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein the load reads an image from a document image, and an image forming unit that forms an image on recording paper based on image information A facsimile communication control unit that transmits an image to a transmission destination under a predetermined communication procedure, a user interface unit that performs reception notification of information with a user, and a user identification device for identifying a user. An image processing apparatus including at least one and executing image processing in cooperation with each other based on an instruction from a user . The power supply control program for functioning a computer as each means of the power supply control apparatus of any one of Claims 1-6 .