JP6842371B2 - Image processing device and image processing method - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus for processing an image and an image processing method used in such an image processing apparatus.

Some image processing devices control the power supply in the image processing device. For example, Patent Document 1 describes an image forming apparatus whose operating state changes from a power saving state to a printable state by supplying power to a printing unit based on a power saving release command transmitted from an information processing device. It is disclosed.

Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 2014-20487

In electronic devices, reduction in power consumption is generally desired, and in image processing devices, reduction in power consumption is also expected.

It is desirable to provide an image processing apparatus and an image processing method capable of reducing power consumption.

The image processing device according to the embodiment of the present invention includes an image pickup unit, a motion sensor, an identification unit, a history management unit, and a control unit. The motion sensor detects the approach of the user. The identification unit acquires the first user identifier corresponding to the first biological image by performing identification processing using the identification database based on the first biological image captured by the imaging unit, and the imaging unit obtains the first user identifier corresponding to the first biological image. When the identification process cannot be performed based on the second biological image captured by the second biological image, the identification database is updated based on the second biological image. The history management unit uses a history database in which the operation history and a plurality of user identifiers including the first user identifier are stored in association with each other, and uses the history database to convert the operation history into the first user identifier based on the first user identifier. The corresponding first operation history is acquired. The control unit sets the operation mode by selecting one of the plurality of operation modes based on the detection result of the motion sensor and the first operation history. The plurality of operation modes are the first operation mode in which power is supplied to the motion sensor and the power supply to the image pickup unit is stopped, and power is supplied to the image pickup unit to supply power to the motion sensor. Includes a second mode of operation to stop. The control unit changes the operation mode from the first operation mode to the second operation mode based on the detection result of the motion sensor.

The image processing method according to the embodiment of the present invention identifies based on the image captured by the imaging unit, the human sensor detecting the approach of the user, and the first biological image captured by the imaging unit. By performing the identification process using the database, it is not possible to acquire the first user identifier corresponding to the first biometric image and perform the identification process based on the second biometric image captured by the imaging unit. In this case, the identification database is updated based on the second biometric image, and the operation history is associated with a plurality of user identifiers including the first user identifier, and the history database is stored. Acquiring the first operation history corresponding to the first user identifier based on one user identifier, and based on the detection result of the human sensor and the first operation history, among a plurality of operation modes Includes setting the operation mode by selecting one . The plurality of operation modes are the first operation mode in which power is supplied to the motion sensor and the power supply to the image pickup unit is stopped, and power is supplied to the image pickup unit to supply power to the motion sensor. Includes a second mode of operation to stop. Setting the operation mode includes changing the operation mode from the first operation mode to the second operation mode based on the detection result of the motion sensor.

According to the image processing apparatus and the image processing method according to the embodiment of the present invention, the first user identifier is acquired based on the first biological image, and the first operation history is obtained based on the first user identifier. And set the operation mode based on the first operation history, so that the power consumption can be reduced.

It is a block diagram which shows one structural example of the image processing apparatus which concerns on one Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows one structural example of the control mechanism of the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is a table which shows an example of the operation history in the history database shown in FIG. It is a table which shows an example of the power supply operation in the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is a table which shows an example of the process which can be executed in the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is a flowchart which shows one operation example in the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is another flowchart which shows one operation example in the image processing apparatus shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the user identification process shown in FIGS. 6A and 6B. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the operation history update process shown in FIG. 6A. It is a table which shows one operation example of the operation history update process shown in FIG. 6A. 6 is a flowchart showing an operation example of the operation mode selection process shown in FIG. 6B.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[Configuration example]
FIG. 1 shows a configuration example of an image processing device (image processing device 1) according to an embodiment of the present invention. The image processing device 1 identifies the user based on the user's "biological image" (face image in this example), and sets the operation mode based on the operation history of the user. Since the image processing method according to the embodiment of the present invention is embodied by the embodiment, it will be described together.

The image processing device 1 includes an image reading unit 10, an image forming unit 20, an operation panel 31, a motion sensor 32, and an imaging unit 33.

The image reading unit 10 reads an image printed on a reading medium MR such as paper. In this example, the image reading unit 10 has an ADF (Auto Document Feeder). As a result, the image reading unit 10 can easily read the images printed on the plurality of reading media MRs. Further, the image reading unit 10 also functions as a so-called flatbed scanner by the user setting the reading medium MR on the reading surface of the image reading unit 10.

The image forming unit 20 forms an image on a recording medium MP such as paper. In this example, the image forming unit 20 forms an image by an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 20 includes a medium accommodating unit 21, a pickup roller 22, four photosensitive drum units 23 (photosensitive drum units 23K, 23Y, 23M, 23C), and four transfer rollers 24 (transfer rollers 24K, 24Y, 24M, 24C). ) And the fixing portion 25. The medium accommodating unit 21 accommodates the recording medium MP. The pickup roller 22 is a member that takes out the recording media MP stored in the medium accommodating portion 21 one by one from the uppermost portion thereof and sends the taken out recording medium MP to the transport path 29. The photosensitive drum unit 23K forms a black toner image, and the transfer roller 24K transfers the toner image generated by the photosensitive drum unit 23K to the recording medium MP. The photosensitive drum unit 23Y forms a yellow toner image, and the transfer roller 24Y transfers the toner image generated by the photosensitive drum unit 23Y to the recording medium MP. The photosensitive drum unit 23M forms a magenta-colored toner image, and the transfer roller 24M transfers the toner image generated by the photosensitive drum unit 23M to the recording medium MP. The photosensitive drum unit 23C forms a cyan-colored toner image, and the transfer roller 24C transfers the toner image generated by the photosensitive drum unit 23C to the recording medium MP. The fixing unit 25 fixes the toner image transferred to the recording medium MP to the recording medium MP by applying heat and pressure to the recording medium MP. Then, the recording medium MP on which the toner image is fixed is discharged to the outside of the image forming unit 20.

The operation panel 31 accepts the user's operation and displays the operating state of the image processing device 1, and is configured by using, for example, a liquid crystal display, a touch panel, various buttons, and the like. The motion sensor 32 detects the approach of the user, and is configured by using, for example, an infrared sensor. The image pickup unit 33 captures the face of the user who is operating the image pickup unit 33, and is configured by using, for example, a CMOS (Complementary Metal Oxide Semiconductor) image sensor or the like.

FIG. 2 shows an example of a control mechanism in the image processing device 1. The image processing device 1 includes a network communication unit 41, a fax communication unit 42, a user identification unit 43, an operation history management unit 45, and a control unit 47.

The network communication unit 41 performs network communication, and is connected to a personal computer (not shown) via a network composed of, for example, a wired LAN (Local Area Network). The network communication unit 41 receives the print data DP transmitted from the personal computer, for example, by communicating with the personal computer.

The FAX communication unit 42 transmits and receives FAX data to and from a communication partner via a telephone line.

The user identification unit 43 acquires the face image PF of the operating user based on the captured image captured by the image pickup unit 33, and identifies the user based on the face image PF. The user identification unit 43 has a user database 44. In the user database 44, information for identifying the user's face image PF (face image information INF) is registered in association with the user identifier ID of the user. With this configuration, the user identification unit 43 identifies the user using the user database 44 based on the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33, and acquires the user identifier ID corresponding to the face image PF. It has become like.

If the user identification unit 43 cannot identify the user based on the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33 using the user database 44, the user identification unit 43 uses the face image PF to identify the user. It also has a function to update the database 44. Specifically, the user identification unit 43 generates a face image information INF based on the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33, and associates this face image information INF with the newly assigned user identifier ID. Register in the user database 44. In this way, when the operating user is not registered in the user database 44, the user identification unit 43 automatically registers the user.

The operation history management unit 45 manages the operation history of the user. The operation history management unit 45 has a history database 46. The history database 46 stores the operation history for each user identifier ID.

FIG. 3 shows an example of the history database 46. The history database 46 stores the operation history (print count CP and scan count CS) for each user identifier ID. The print count CP is the number of times the print function of the image processing device 1 is used, and the scan count CS is the number of times the scan function of the image processing device 1 is used. In other words, the print count CP indicates the number of jobs using the image forming unit 20, and the scan count CS indicates the number of jobs using the image reading unit 10.

With this configuration, the operation history management unit 45 updates the history database 46 by updating the print count CP and scan count CS corresponding to the user identifier ID of the user based on the user's operation. Further, the operation history management unit 45 also has a function of acquiring the print count CP and the scan count CS corresponding to the user identifier ID based on the user identifier ID.

The control unit 47 controls the overall operation of the image processing device 1 by controlling the operation of each block in the image processing device 1. The control unit 47 is configured by using, for example, a processor capable of executing a program.

The control unit 47 has an operation mode control unit 48. The operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M of the image processing device 1. The image processing device 1 has five operation modes M (sleep mode M1, user approach mode M2, scan mode M3, print mode M4, and complete operation mode M5), and the operation mode control unit 48 has the five operation modes M. One of the two operation modes M is set as the operation mode M. Then, the operation mode control unit 48 controls the power supply to each block in the image processing device 1 based on the set operation mode M.

FIG. 4 shows an example of the power supply operation in each of the operation modes M. In FIG. 4, “◯” indicates that power is supplied, and “−” indicates that power is not supplied.

FIG. 5 shows an example of processing that can be executed in each of the operation modes M. In FIG. 5, “◯” indicates that the process can be executed, and “−” indicates that the process cannot be executed. Further, the "copy process" is, for example, a process in which the image reading unit 10 reads the image printed on the reading medium MR, and the image forming unit 20 forms the read image on the recording medium MP. The “scan process” is, for example, a process in which the image reading unit 10 reads an image printed on the reading medium MR, and the network communication unit 41 transmits the read image to, for example, a personal computer. The "scanning process" is not limited to this, and is, for example, a process in which the image reading unit 10 reads an image printed on the reading medium MR and stores the read image in the image processing device 1. You may. The “print process” is, for example, a process in which the network communication unit 11 receives the print data DP, and the image forming unit 20 forms the image included in the print data DP on the recording medium MP. The "print process" is not limited to this, and the "print process" is, for example, an image included in the print data DP stored in the image processing device 1 in advance by the user operating the operation panel 31. The process may be such that the image forming unit 20 forms on the recording medium MP. The "FAX transmission process" is, for example, a process in which the image reading unit 10 reads an image printed on the reading medium MR, and the FAX communication unit 42 transmits the FAX data including the read image. The "FAX reception process" is, for example, a process in which the FAX communication unit 42 receives the FAX data, and the image forming unit 20 forms the image included in the FAX data on the recording medium MP.

The sleep mode M1 is an operation mode M that is set while waiting for processing. In this sleep mode M1, power is supplied to the motion sensor 32, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. The image processing device 1 can detect the approach of the user by supplying power to the motion sensor 32. The image processing device 1 can receive the print data DP by supplying power to the network communication unit 41. Further, the image processing device 1 can receive the fax data by supplying power to the fax communication unit 42.

The user approach mode M2 is an operation mode M that is set when the user is approaching the image processing device 1. In this user approach mode M2, power is supplied to the image pickup unit 33, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. The image processing device 1 can image the user's face by supplying power to the image pickup unit 33. Thereby, the image processing device 1 can identify the user who is operating based on the face image PF, and can set the operation mode M of the image processing device 1 based on the operation history of the user.

The scan mode M3 is an operation mode M set when the scan function is used without using the print function or when the scan function is presumed to be used without using the print function. In this scan mode M3, power is supplied to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. As a result, the image processing apparatus 1 can perform "scan processing" and "FAX transmission processing" in the scan mode M3 as shown in FIG.

The print mode M4 is an operation mode M set when the print function is used without using the scan function or when the print function is presumed to be used without using the scan function. In this print mode M4, power is supplied to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image forming unit 20, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. As a result, the image processing apparatus 1 can perform "print processing" and "fax reception processing" in the print mode M4 as shown in FIG.

The complete operation mode M5 is an operation mode M that is set when both the scan function and the print function are used, or when it is estimated that both the scan function and the print function are used. In this complete operation mode M5, power is supplied to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the image forming unit 20, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. As a result, in this complete operation mode M5, the image processing device 1 performs "copy processing", "scan processing", "print processing", "FAX transmission processing", and "FAX reception processing" as shown in FIG. "Can be done.

The operation mode control unit 48 sets one of the five operation modes M as the operation mode M. Then, the operation mode control unit 48 controls the power supply to each block in the image processing device 1 based on the set operation mode M, as shown in FIG.

Here, the user identification unit 43 corresponds to a specific example of the "identification unit" in the present invention. The face image PF corresponds to a specific example of the "biological image" in the present invention. The user database 44 corresponds to a specific example of the "identification database" in the present invention. The operation history management unit 46 corresponds to a specific example of the “history management unit” in the present invention. The history database 46 corresponds to a specific example of the "history database" in the present invention. The operation mode control unit 48 corresponds to a specific example of the “control unit” in the present invention. The motion sensor 32 corresponds to a specific example of the “ motion sensor” in the present invention. The operation panel 31 corresponds to a specific example of the "operation unit" in the present invention. The sleep mode M1 corresponds to a specific example of the "first operation mode" in the present invention. The user approach mode M2 corresponds to a specific example of the "second operation mode" in the present invention. The scan mode M3 corresponds to a specific example of the "third operation mode" in the present invention. The print mode M4 corresponds to a specific example of the "fourth operation mode" in the present invention. The complete operation mode M5 corresponds to a specific example of the "fifth operation mode" in the present invention.

[Operation and action]
Subsequently, the operation and operation of the image processing device 1 of the present embodiment will be described.

(Overview of overall operation)
First, an outline of the overall operation of the image processing device 1 will be described with reference to FIG. The network communication unit 41 receives, for example, a print data DP transmitted from a personal computer (not shown) by performing network communication. The FAX communication unit 42 transmits and receives FAX data to and from a communication partner via a telephone line. The operation panel 31 accepts the user's operation and displays the operating state of the image processing device 1. The motion sensor 32 detects the approach of the user. The imaging unit 33 captures the face of the operating user. The image reading unit 10 reads an image printed on a reading medium MR such as paper. The image forming unit 20 forms an image on a recording medium MP such as paper. The user identification unit 43 uses the user database 44 to acquire the user identifier ID corresponding to the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33. Further, when the user identification unit 43 cannot identify the user based on the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33 using the user database 44, the user database 43 is based on the face image PF. Update 44. The operation history management unit 45 updates the history database 46 by updating the print count CP and scan count CS corresponding to the user identifier ID of the user based on the user's operation. Further, the operation history management unit 45 acquires the print count CP and the scan count CS corresponding to the user identifier ID based on the user identifier ID. The control unit 47 controls the overall operation of the image processing device 1 by controlling the operation of each block in the image processing device 1. The operation mode control unit 48 of the control unit 47 sets the operation mode M of the image processing device 1, and controls the power supply to each block in the image processing device 1 based on the set operation mode M.

(Detailed operation)
6A and 6B show the detailed operation of the image processing device 1.

First, when the control unit 47 detects that the power is turned on by the user (step S101), the operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the complete operation mode M5 (step S102). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the image forming unit 20, the FAX communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. The image processing device 1 is controlled so as to supply the image.

Next, the operation mode control unit 48 monitors the device state of the image processing device 1 (step S103).

When the user instructs the process by operating the operation panel 31 in step S103 (“the process is instructed by the panel operation” in step S103), the user identification unit 43 performs the user identification process A1 (step S104). ).

FIG. 7 shows a subroutine of the user identification process A1.

First, the user identification unit 43 acquires the face image PF of the operating user based on the image captured by the image pickup unit 33 (step S171).

Next, the user identification unit 43 identifies the user using the user database 44 based on the face image PF acquired in step S171 (step S172).

When the user identification is successful (“Y” in step S173), the user identification unit 43 acquires the user identifier ID corresponding to the face image PF from the user database 44 (step S174).

If the user identification fails (“N” in step S173), the user identification unit 43 generates a face image information INF based on the face image PF, and newly creates the face image information INF. The user database 44 is updated by registering it in the user database 44 in association with the assigned user identifier ID (step S175). That is, since the operating user is not registered in the user database 44, this user is registered in the user database 44. Then, the user identification unit 43 acquires the newly assigned user identifier ID corresponding to the face image PF (step S176).

This completes the subroutine (FIG. 7) of the user identification process A1.

Next, as shown in FIG. 6A, the operation mode control unit 48 confirms whether or not the process instructed by the panel operation in step S103 can be executed in the current operation mode M (step S105). That is, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, when the current operation mode M is the print mode M4 and the instructed process is the “print process”, the process can be executed. Further, for example, when the current operation mode M is the print mode M4 and the instructed process is the "copy process", the process cannot be executed. If the instructed process can be executed in the current operation mode M (“Y” in step S105), the process proceeds to step S107.

In step S105, when the instructed process cannot be executed in the current operation mode M (“N” in step S105), the operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the complete operation mode M5. (Step S106). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the image forming unit 20, the FAX communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. The image processing device 1 is controlled so as to supply the image.

Next, the image processing device 1 executes the process instructed by the panel operation in step S103 (step S107). Specifically, when the instructed process is "copy process", the image processing device 1 performs "copy process", and when the instructed process is "scan process", the image processing device 1 performs the "copy process". 1 performs "scan processing", and when the instructed processing is "print processing", the image processing device 1 performs "print processing", and when the instructed processing is "FAX transmission processing". The image processing device 1 performs "FAX transmission processing".

Next, the operation history management unit 45 performs the operation history update process A2 (step S108).

FIG. 8 shows a subroutine of the operation history update process A2.

First, the operation history management unit 45 confirms whether or not the process instructed by the panel operation in step S103 (FIG. 6A) uses the print function (step S181). As shown in FIG. 9, when the processes instructed by the panel operation are "print process" and "copy process", the process utilizes the print function. If the process instructed by the panel operation does not use the print function (“N” in step S181), the process proceeds to step S183.

In step S181, when the process instructed by the panel operation uses the print function (“Y” in step S181), the operation history management unit 45 has acquired in step S104 in the history database 46. , The history database 46 is updated by incrementing the print count CP corresponding to the user identifier ID of the operating user (step S182).

Next, the operation history management unit 45 confirms whether or not the process instructed by the panel operation in step S103 (FIG. 6A) uses the scan function (step S183). As shown in FIG. 9, when the processes instructed by the panel operation are "scan process", "fax transmission process", and "copy process", the process uses the scan function. Is. When the process instructed by the panel operation does not use the scan function (“N” in step S183), the subroutine (FIG. 8) of the operation history update process A2 ends.

In step S183, when the process instructed by the panel operation uses the scan function (“Y” in step S183), the operation history management unit 45 has acquired in step S104 in the history database 46. , The history database 46 is updated by incrementing the scan count CS corresponding to the user identifier ID of the operating user (step S184).

This completes the subroutine (FIG. 8) of the operation history update process A2.

As shown in FIG. 6A, when the operation history update process A2 (step S108) is completed in this way, the process returns to step S103.

In step S103, when the FAX communication unit 42 receives the FAX data, or when the network communication unit 41 receives the print data DP (“FAX data reception or print data reception” in step S103), the operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the print mode M4 (step S111). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image forming unit 20, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. , Controls the image processing device 1.

Then, the image processing device 1 executes the processing (step S112). Specifically, when the FAX communication unit 42 receives the FAX data, the image processing device 1 performs "FAX reception processing", and when the network communication unit 41 receives the print data DP, the image processing device 1 performs the "FAX reception processing". 1 performs "print processing".

Then, the process returns to step S103.

If the user has not operated the operation panel 31 for a predetermined time in step S103 (“no panel operation for a predetermined time” in step S103), the operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the sleep mode M1. (Step S121). As a result, the operation mode control unit 48 controls the image processing device 1 so as to supply power to the motion sensor 32, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41, as shown in FIG. ..

Next, as shown in FIG. 6B, the operation mode control unit 48 monitors the device state of the image processing device 1 (step S122).

When the motion sensor 32 detects the approach of the user in step S122 (“detecting the approach of the user” in step S122), the operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the user approach mode M2 ( Step S123). As a result, the operation mode control unit 48 controls the image processing device 1 so as to supply power to the image pickup unit 33, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41, as shown in FIG.

Next, the user identification unit 43 performs the user identification process A1 (step S124). This process is the same as the process (FIG. 7) performed in step S104 shown in FIG. 6A.

Next, the operation mode control unit 48 performs the operation mode selection process A3 (step S125).

FIG. 10 shows a subroutine of the operation mode selection process A3.

First, the operation history management unit 45 acquires the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID of the operating user acquired in step S124 (FIG. 6B) from the history database 46 (step S191). If the acquisition of the operation history fails (“N” in step S192), the subroutine (FIG. 10) of the operation mode selection process A3 ends.

When the operation history is successfully acquired (“Y” in step S192), the operation mode control unit 48 confirms the magnitude relationship between the scan count CS and the print count CP included in the operation history (step S193).

In step S193, when the number of scans CS is larger than the number of prints CP (“scan count CS> print count CP” in step S193), the operation mode control unit 48 selects the scan mode M3 (step S194). In the example of FIG. 3, for example, the scan mode M3 is selected when the user identifier ID is “00000001” and when the user identifier ID is “00000003”. That is, in this case, since the operating user is likely to instruct "scan processing" or "FAX transmission processing", the operation mode control unit 48 selects the scan mode M3.

Further, in step S193, when the number of scans CS is smaller than the number of prints CP (“scan count CS <print count CP” in step S193), the operation mode control unit 48 selects the print mode M4 (step S195). ). In the example of FIG. 3, for example, the print mode M4 is selected when the user identifier ID is “00000002” and when the user identifier ID is “00000004”. That is, in this case, since the operating user is likely to instruct the "print process", the operation mode control unit 48 selects the print mode M4.

Further, in step S193, when the scan count CS is equal to the print count CP (“scan count CS = print count CP” in step S193), the operation mode control unit 48 selects the complete operation mode M5 (step S196). ). In the example of FIG. 3, for example, when the user identifier ID is "00000005", the complete operation mode M5 is selected.

This completes the subroutine (FIG. 10) of the operation mode selection process A3.

Then, as shown in FIG. 6B, when the operation mode M selected by the operation mode selection process A3 (step S125) is the complete operation mode M5 (“complete operation mode M5” in step S126), the operation mode The control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the complete operation mode M5 (step S127). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the image forming unit 20, the FAX communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. The image processing device 1 is controlled so as to supply the image.

When the operation mode M selected by the operation mode selection process A3 (step S125) is the scan mode M3 (“scan mode M3” in step S126), the operation mode control unit 48 scans the operation mode M. Set to mode M3 (step S128). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image reading unit 10, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. , Controls the image processing device 1.

When the operation mode M selected by the operation mode selection process A3 (step S125) is the print mode M4 (“print mode M4” in step S126), the operation mode control unit 48 prints the operation mode M. Set to mode M4 (step S129). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image forming unit 20, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. , Controls the image processing device 1.

Then, the process returns to step S103 (FIG. 6A).

If the operation panel 31 detects a panel operation in step S122 (“panel operation detected” in step S122), the process proceeds to step S127.

Further, in step S122, when the FAX communication unit 42 receives the FAX data, or when the network communication unit 41 receives the print data DP (“FAX data reception or print data reception” in step S122), the operation mode The control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the print mode M4 (step S131). As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, the operation mode control unit 48 supplies power to the image pickup unit 33, the operation panel 31, the image forming unit 20, the fax communication unit 42, and the network communication unit 41. , Controls the image processing device 1.

Then, the image processing device 1 executes the process (step S132). Specifically, when the FAX communication unit 42 receives the FAX data, the image processing device 1 performs "FAX reception processing", and when the network communication unit 41 receives the print data DP, the image processing device 1 performs the "FAX reception processing". 1 performs "print processing".

Then, the process returns to step S103 (FIG. 6A).

As described above, in the image processing device 1, the operation mode M is set based on the user's operation history (print count CP and scan count CS). Specifically, for example, when the number of scans CS is larger than the number of prints CP in the user's operation history, the operation mode control unit 48 instructs the user to perform "scan processing" or "fax transmission processing". It is determined that there is a high possibility that the operation mode M will be set to the scan mode M3. As a result, in the image processing device 1, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, the power supply to the image forming unit 20 is stopped. Further, for example, when the print count CP is larger than the scan count CS in the user's operation history, the operation mode control unit 48 determines that the user is likely to instruct the "print process". The operation mode control unit 48 sets the operation mode M to the print mode M4. As a result, in the image processing device 1, as shown in FIG. 4, for example, the power supply to the image reading unit 10 is stopped. In this way, in the image processing device 1, since the operation mode M is set based on the operation history of the user, it is possible to stop the power supply to the block that is presumed not to be used, which is effective. Power consumption can be reduced.

Further, in the image processing device 1, since the operation mode M is set based on the operation history of the user in this way, the user will give an instruction based on the operation history of the operating user. The operation mode M can be set by estimating the processing. As a result, in the image processing apparatus 1, the time until the processing is started can be shortened. That is, for example, when the operation mode M is set based on the user's operation, it may take time to start the process because the power supply to each block is started after the user's operation. .. On the other hand, in the image processing device 1, the processing that will be instructed by the user is estimated and the operation mode M is set. Therefore, if the estimation is correct, the processing can be started immediately according to the operation of the user. it can. As a result, the image processing device 1 can improve the convenience of the user.

Further, in the image processing device 1, if the user identification unit 43 cannot identify the user based on the face image PF imaged by the image pickup unit 33 using the user database 44, the face image thereof. The user database 44 is updated based on the PF. As a result, in the image processing device 1, the user does not need to perform, for example, the work of registering the face image PF or the work of associating the face image PF with the account, which saves the user's trouble and enhances the user's convenience. be able to.

In this way, the image processing device 1 automatically collects the face image PF and updates the user database 44 based on the face image PF. Then, the user is identified using the user database 44, and the operation history of the identified user is recorded. Then, the operation mode M is set based on the face image PF and the operation history. As a result, in the image processing device 1, the convenience of the user can be improved and the power consumption can be effectively reduced.

[effect]
As described above, in the present embodiment, since the operation mode is set based on the operation history of the user, it is possible to stop the power supply to the block that is presumed not to be used, which is effective. Power consumption can be reduced. In addition, since the process can be started immediately according to the user's operation, the convenience of the user can be improved.

In the present embodiment, when the user cannot be identified based on the face image captured by the imaging unit using the user database, the user database is updated based on the face image. .. As a result, the user does not need to perform, for example, the work of registering the face image or the work of associating the face image with the account, so that the convenience of the user can be improved.

[Modification 1]
In the above embodiment, the motion sensor 32 and the image pickup unit 33 are built in the image processing device 1, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of this, for example, a motion sensor and an imaging unit may be provided separately from the image processing device and connected to the image processing device.

[Modification 2]
In the above embodiment, in the operation mode selection process A3 (FIG. 10), for example, the complete operation mode M5 is selected when the scan count CS is equal to the print count CP, but the present invention is not limited to this. Instead of this, for example, when the difference between the scan count CS and the print count CP is a predetermined number or less, the complete operation mode M5 may be selected.

[Modification 3]
In the above embodiment, the user identification unit 43 acquires the face image PF of the operating user based on the image captured by the image pickup unit 33, and identifies the user based on the face image PF. I did it. For example, when the captured image includes the face images PF1 and PF2 of two users, the user identification unit 43 identifies the two users based on the two face images PF1 and PF2, respectively, and two. User identifiers ID1 and ID2 may be acquired. In this case, the operation mode control unit 48 may set the operation mode M based on both the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID1 and the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID2. Specifically, for example, in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID1, the scan count CS is larger than the print count CP, and in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID2, the scan count CS is larger than the print count CP. The operation mode control unit 48 can set the operation mode M to the scan mode M3. Further, for example, when the scan count CS is less than the print count CP in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID1 and the scan count CS is less than the print count CP in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID2, the operation is performed. The mode control unit 48 can set the operation mode M to the print mode M4. Further, for example, in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID1, when the scan count CS is larger than the print count CP and in the operation history corresponding to the user identifier ID2, the scan count CS is smaller than the print count CP. The mode control unit 48 can set the operation mode M to the complete operation mode M5. As described above, when the captured image includes the face images PF1 and PF2 of the two users, the operation history update process A2 may not be performed. In this example, the case of two people has been described, but for example, there may be three or more people.

Although the present technology has been described above with reference to embodiments and modifications, the present technology is not limited to these embodiments and the like, and various modifications are possible.

For example, in the above-described embodiment and the like, the image is formed on the recording medium MP by the electrophotographic method, but the image is not limited to this, and the image may be formed by any method. Further, in the above-described embodiment and the like, a color image is formed on the recording medium MP, but the present invention is not limited to this, and a monochrome image may be formed.

Further, for example, in the above embodiment, as shown in FIG. 5, the image processing apparatus 1 has "copy processing", "scan processing", "print processing", "FAX transmission processing", and "FAX reception". "Processing" is performed, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, some of these processes may not be able to be performed, or other processes may be performed. Good.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the present technology is applied to a multifunctional peripheral device, but the present technology is not limited to this, and instead, it is applied to a single-function facsimile, a copier, a scanner, and a printer. It may be applied.

Further, for example, in the above-described embodiment, the face image PF is used to identify the user, but the present invention is not limited to this, and various examples such as fingerprint, vein, retina, iris, and voice are used. Biometric information can be used.

1 ... image processing device, 10 ... image reading unit, 20 ... image forming unit, 21 ... medium accommodating unit, 22 ... pickup roller, 23, 23K, 23Y, 23M, 23C ... photosensitive drum unit, 24, 24K, 24Y, 24M, 24C ... Transfer roller, 25 ... Fixing unit, 31 ... Operation panel, 32 ... Human sensor, 33 ... Imaging unit, 41 ... Network communication unit, 42 ... FAX communication unit, 43 ... User identification unit, 44 ... User database, 45 ... Operation history management unit, 46 ... History database, 47 ... Control unit, 48 ... Operation mode control unit, A1 ..., A2 ..., A3 ... Operation mode selection process, CP ... Print count, CS ... Scan count, ID ... User identifier , M1 ... Sleep mode, M2 ... User approach mode, M3 ... Scan mode, M4 ... Print mode, M5 ... Full operation mode.

Claims (10)

Imaging unit and
A motion sensor that detects the approach of the user and
Based on the first biological image captured by the imaging unit, by performing the identification processing using the identification database, acquires the first user identifier corresponding to the first biological image, by the image pickup unit An identification unit that updates the identification database based on the second biological image when the identification process cannot be performed based on the captured second biological image.
Using the history database in which the operation history and the plurality of user identifiers including the first user identifier are stored in association with each other, the first user identifier is corresponded to the first user identifier based on the first user identifier. The history management unit that acquires the first operation history,
A control unit for setting an operation mode by selecting one of a plurality of operation modes based on the detection result of the motion sensor and the first operation history is provided.
The plurality of operation modes are
A first operation mode in which power is supplied to the motion sensor and power supply to the image pickup unit is stopped.
A second operation mode in which power is supplied to the image pickup unit and power supply to the motion sensor is stopped.
Including
The control unit changes the operation mode from the first operation mode to the second operation mode based on the detection result of the motion sensor.
Images processing device. It also has an operation unit that accepts user operations.
The plurality of operation modes include a third operation mode in which power is supplied to the operation unit and power supply to the motion sensor is stopped.
The control unit changes the operation mode from the third operation mode to the first operation mode when the operation unit does not accept an operation for a predetermined time.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. An image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium,
Further equipped with an image reading unit that reads an image from a reading medium,
The image processing device according to claim 1, wherein the control unit further controls power supply to the image forming unit and the image reading unit based on the operation mode. The second operation mode is a mode for stopping the power supply to the image forming unit and the image reading unit.
In the second operation mode, the identification unit acquires the first user identifier based on the first biological image, and obtains the first user identifier.
The history management unit acquires the first operation history based on the first user identifier, and obtains the first operation history.
The control unit sets the operation mode based on the first operation history.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 3. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the first operation mode is a mode in which power supply to the image forming unit and the image reading unit is stopped. The plurality of operation modes are
A third operation mode for supplying power to the image reading unit of the image forming unit and the image reading unit, and
A fourth operation mode for supplying power to the image forming unit of the image forming unit and the image reading unit, and
A fifth operation mode for supplying power to the image forming unit and the image reading unit is included.
In the second operation mode, the control unit sets the operation mode as the third operation mode, the fourth operation mode, and the fifth operation mode based on the first operation history. Set to one of them
The image processing apparatus according to claim 4 or 5. It also has an operation unit that accepts user operations.
Further, in the third operation mode and the fourth operation mode, the control unit sets the operation mode to the fifth operation mode based on an instruction from the operation unit.
The image processing apparatus according to claim 6. When the identification process cannot be performed based on the second biological image, the identification unit uses the second biological image and the second user identifier corresponding to the second biological image. Update the identification database,
Any one of claims 1 to 7 , wherein the history management unit stores the second operation history corresponding to the second user identifier in the history database after the identification unit updates the identification database. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. The captured image captured by the imaging unit includes the first biological image and the third biological image.
By performing the identification process, the identification unit acquires the first user identifier corresponding to the first biological image based on the first biological image, and is based on the third biological image. To obtain the third user identifier corresponding to the third biological image,
The history management unit acquires the first operation history corresponding to the first user identifier based on the first user identifier, and the third user identifier based on the third user identifier. Acquire the third operation history corresponding to
The image processing device according to any one of claims 1 to 8 , wherein the control unit sets the operation mode based on the first operation history and the third operation history. When the image pickup unit takes an image
The motion sensor detects the user's approach and
Based on the first biological image captured by the imaging section, by performing the identification processing using the identification database, Tokushi preparative first user identifier corresponding to the first biological image, the imaging and that when it is not possible to perform the identification process based on a second biological image, and updates the identification database based on the second biological image captured by section,
By using the operation history, the history database in which a plurality of user identifiers are in association with each respectively including the first user identifier, based on the first user identifier, corresponding to the first user identifier To acquire the first operation history to be performed ,
To set the operation mode by selecting one of the plurality of operation modes based on the detection result of the motion sensor and the first operation history.
Including
The plurality of operation modes are
A first operation mode in which power is supplied to the motion sensor and power supply to the image pickup unit is stopped.
A second operation mode in which power is supplied to the image pickup unit and power supply to the motion sensor is stopped.
Including
Setting the operation mode is an image processing method including changing the operation mode from the first operation mode to the second operation mode based on the detection result of the motion sensor.

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