JPH10285310A - Image reader - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce useless power consumption as much as possible by properly managing the supply for power. SOLUTION: This reader is operated in a designated read operation mode designated via a user interface, lights an original which is a read object with a light source 7, allows a photoelectric conversion element 12 to receive a reflected light or a transmission light and to apply photoelectric conversion to the light, so as to extract image information on the original as an electric signal. In this case, the inside of the reader is further divided into pluralities of function blocks 51, 53, 55, 60, 63, 68 and a power supply control means 71 controls the supply of power from a power supply means 70 so as to supply required power, only to the required function blocks depending on the operation on request and the state of the reader such as a standby state. Thus, it is not required to supply power, even to undesired function blocks in each state, without losing the required functions, even when a power switch 74 of the reader is kept turned on and useless power consumption is minimized.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image reading apparatus such as an image scanner which reads image information on a document by using a photoelectric conversion element and causes a host computer to read the image information as a digital signal via a user interface. About.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a facsimile apparatus or the like in which an image reading apparatus is part of a device configuration, a user of the apparatus uses a key on an operation panel mounted on the apparatus in order to reduce power consumption of the apparatus. There has been proposed a configuration in which the operation of the device is detected and the power supply of the apparatus main body is turned on (for example, see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 8-8989).

However, an image reading apparatus such as an image scanner is often considered as a part of a system including a host computer connected via an interface cable, and the operation of the image scanner itself is left to the host computer. It is almost always possible. That is, it is sufficient that the image scanner is operable when there is an operation request from the host computer or when an original to be read using the image scanner is set in the image scanner. As described above, since the operation of the image scanner is left to the host computer, the image scanner is rarely equipped with an operation panel such as a facsimile machine or a digital copying machine, and therefore, there has been an operation request from the host computer. It is desirable from the viewpoint of effective utilization of power consumption to control the power supply system so that the image scanner becomes operable at the time or when a document is set on the image scanner.

[0004]

From the viewpoint of reducing the power consumption, a conventional image reading apparatus will be considered.
The image reading device here is assumed to be an image scanner that takes in image information such as a document or a photograph into a host computer or the like connected via a user interface. On / off control of the power switch (main switch) of such an image reading apparatus is left to the user of the image reading apparatus. In addition, the user controls the operation of the image reading apparatus on a host computer connected by a user interface (ie, setting of parameters related to the reading operation of the document, start / stop of the reading operation, etc.) in most cases. It is. That is, the user often performs a job using the image reading apparatus in front of the host computer, and is likely to neglect the on / off management of the power switch of the image reading apparatus. In order to avoid this, the power switch itself of the image reading apparatus is always turned on, or the power switch is turned on when a user starts a business within a day and until the business is completed. Can be considered to be turned on in many cases. In particular, in recent years, networking of OA devices has been studied, and it is usual that the power switch is kept on for networked devices.

However, the image reading apparatus transmits a series of operations from the time when the image reading apparatus transmits image information on the document to the host computer via the user interface to the host computer, and the time when the transmission is completed. )
Is considered to be shorter than the time during which the user is working on the host computer to which the image reading device is connected, and the power switch of the image reading device is turned on and the commercial AC power supply is turned on. Even if the power is turned on, most of the day is considered to be in a so-called standby state, and the power consumed by the image reading apparatus during this time can be regarded as substantially wasted power. . Therefore, it is necessary to reduce such wasteful power consumption.

Further, in the image reading apparatus, functions such as image processing and an extended interface (I / F) are individually unitized and set as optional equipment of the image reading apparatus so as to be able to widely meet the needs of the user. Often. In addition, these are often set as user options so that the user can purchase and attach it to the apparatus according to the user's preference. In such a case, when the image reading apparatus is in the standby state, power is supplied to each connected optional device even though it is not substantially operating. In many cases, these powers can be regarded as substantially wasted power (although the optional device has a function as an extension I / F and is connected to an external device represented by a host computer). However, an optional device that needs to constantly respond to an operation request from the external device is not wasted power.) Therefore, it is necessary to reduce such useless power consumption when an optional device is connected.

In particular, in recent years, power saving has become an important issue from the viewpoint of environmental protection and efficient use of energy, and it is important to minimize wasteful power consumption of the apparatus as described above. It is.

Further, in a configuration in which a plurality of optional devices can be mounted, if a plurality of optional devices are mounted by a user, the optional device used differs every time a reading operation is requested by the user (of course, In some cases, the original may be read without using the optional device), and the user may need to manage which optional device is attached to the apparatus.

Accordingly, the present invention appropriately manages power supply, can reduce wasteful power consumption as much as possible, and further reduces the user's management burden on optional devices connectable to the device. It is an object of the present invention to provide an image reading apparatus capable of performing the above.

[0010]

According to the first aspect of the present invention,
By operating in a reading operation mode designated via a user interface, a document to be read is illuminated by a light source, and reflected light or transmitted light thereof is received by a photoelectric conversion element and photoelectrically converted, so that the original document is read. In the image reading apparatus for extracting the image information as an electric signal, the inside of the apparatus is composed of a combination of a plurality of functional blocks divided for each function, and a power supply means for supplying necessary power for each of these functional blocks; Power supply control means for controlling the supply operation of the means in accordance with the state of the apparatus. Therefore, the inside of the device is subdivided into a plurality of functional blocks according to functions, and power supply is controlled so that necessary power is supplied only to necessary functional blocks according to the state of the device such as a required operation and a standby state. Therefore, the necessary functions are not impaired, and power is not supplied to unnecessary function blocks in each state even when the power switch of the apparatus is kept turned on, and wasteful power consumption is minimized. be able to.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the first aspect, the power supply means includes a DC power supply,
The power supply control means includes a rechargeable backup power supply, and the power supply control means sets a standby state of the apparatus in a stepwise manner according to the duration thereof, and has a minimum necessary function in the first-stage standby state. The power supply from the DC power supply is performed to the blocks, and the power supply from the DC power supply is cut off during the standby state in the second stage, and the power supply from the backup power supply to the minimum necessary functional blocks is performed. When there is a switch and an operation request to the device, the power supply is returned from the DC power supply to necessary functional blocks. Therefore, in the standby state which occupies most of the apparatus, the standby state can be maintained while suppressing wasteful power consumption even if the power switch is kept turned on, and the user is burdened with the operation of turning on / off the power switch. Never force.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the first or second aspect, a detecting means for detecting a connection state of an optional device connected to the apparatus is provided. Therefore, information on the connected optional devices can be notified to the user, and the user's management load on the optional devices connectable to the device can be reduced.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus of the first aspect, the power supply means includes a DC power supply,
The power supply control unit includes a chargeable backup power supply, a setting unit that sets a power consumption reduction time zone for the power reduction mode, and a storage unit that stores information on the set power consumption reduction time zone. The power supply control means causes the backup power supply to supply power to the minimum necessary functional blocks in accordance with the power reduction mode when the apparatus belonging to the power consumption reduction time zone is on standby.
Therefore, the user can arbitrarily set a power consumption reduction time period in which the power reduction mode is to be executed in advance in the time period in which the user is unlikely to use the device in accordance with the usage mode of the device, and turns on the power switch. Even if it is left as it is, wasteful power consumption can be minimized.
That is, by opening the setting of the power consumption reduction time zone to the user, the power consumption can be more appropriately reduced according to the user's needs.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus of the fourth aspect, the image reading apparatus further comprises a detecting means for detecting an operation request to the apparatus and the end thereof, wherein the power supply control means includes a power supply control unit other than the power consumption reduction time zone. In the time period, the detection means performs power supply to the minimum necessary function block by the DC power supply on condition that the operation of the device is not requested for a predetermined time or more. When the means detects that there is no operation request to the apparatus for a predetermined time or more, the power supply to the minimum necessary function block by the DC power supply is performed, and the mode gradually shifts to the power reduction mode to maintain the power reduction mode. In addition, when an operation request to the device is detected by the detection means during the power reduction mode, the power reduction mode is canceled and the necessary power is supplied from the DC power supply. Back to the power supply to the block, the end of the processing for the operation request is to immediately be returned to the reduced power mode when it is detected by said detecting means. Therefore, even in a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone for the power reduction mode, the power can be reduced in the standby state, and in the power reduction mode, if the operation is requested upon execution of the device and executed. When the end is detected, the mode immediately returns to the power reduction mode, so that the power consumption can be reduced as much as possible.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the setting means is capable of setting a power consumption reduction time zone via a user interface. Therefore, the setting of the power consumption reduction time zone can be easily performed via the user interface in the same manner as the designation of the reading operation mode.

The invention according to claim 7 is based on claims 1, 2, and
In the image reading apparatus described in 3, 4, 5, or 6, the power supply control means includes a function block necessary for realizing an operation requested via a user interface for each function block including the optional device. There is provided a selecting means for selecting and controlling so as to supply necessary power only to the selected functional block. Therefore, for each functional block including the optional device, necessary power can be supplied only to the functional block required to realize the requested operation, and wasteful power consumption is reduced.

[0017]

FIG. 1 shows a first embodiment of the present invention.
This will be described with reference to FIG. First, an external configuration of an image scanner 1 which is an image reading apparatus to which the present invention is applied is shown in FIG. In the image scanner 1, an ADF (automatic paper feeder) 3 is mounted on an upper portion of an apparatus main body 2. The ADF 3 also serves as a document pressure plate, and can be freely opened and closed with respect to the apparatus main body 2 around a fulcrum set on the front side (left side in FIG. 1) in the paper discharge direction where the paper discharge tray 4 is provided. It has been. Thus, a reading operation (sheet-through mode) in which the original 5 is automatically fed and read using the ADF 3 and a reading operation (book scanner mode) in which the ADF 3 is opened and the original 5 is directly set by hand and read. Is alternatively possible.

Next, FIG. 2 schematically shows the internal structure of the image scanner 1. The device main body 2 is provided with a contact glass 6 on its upper surface. The ADF 3 is mounted on the contact glass 6. Further, inside the apparatus main body 2, a light source 7 directed to the reading position A for the sheet through mode on the contact glass 6 and reflected light from the original 5 illuminated by the light source 7 are sequentially received and deflected. First, second, third mirrors 8, 9, 10; an imaging lens 11 for converging the light reflected by the third mirror 10 to form an image; and an original reflected light imaged by the imaging lens 11 Photoelectric conversion element 12 that receives light and converts it into an electric signal
And a reading optical system in combination with the above. As the photoelectric conversion element 12, for example, a one-dimensional CCD is used. A document 5 is provided inside the apparatus main body 2.
A guide shaft (not shown) and a guide rail (not shown) are provided in parallel with the contact glass 6 along the transport direction (left-right direction) of the contact glass 6. First and second traveling bodies (not shown) supported movably in the directions are provided. The first traveling body includes the light source 7 and the first mirror 8
The second traveling body has the second and third mirrors 9 and 1 mounted thereon.
In the book scanner mode in which the original is fixed, the optical disc is moved at a speed ratio of 2: 1 so that the optical path length does not change.

On the side of the ADF 3, a paper feed roller 14 is provided along the original placing surface 13, and the reading roller on the contact glass 6 is provided from the upper surface of the original placing surface 13. A document conveying path 15 extending from the position A to the discharge tray 4 is formed. This original transport path 15
, The separation roller 16 and the feed roller 17 forming a pair at the top and bottom
And a transport roller 18 is provided in front of the transport direction. Further, a transport roller 19 is provided in front of the reading position A, and a transport roller pair 20 and a paper discharge roller pair 21 are sequentially provided in front of the reading position A in the transport direction.

Here, details near the reading position A will be described with reference to an enlarged view shown in FIG. In the vicinity of the reading position A, there is provided a pressing plate 22 composed of a sheet-like density reference plate 22a along the upper surface of the contact glass 6 and a sheet-like black member 22b covering the upper side of the concentration reference plate 22a. ing. A document presence sensor 23 for detecting whether or not the document 5 exists in the document transport path 15 is provided in front of the transport roller 19.

Next, an outline of a hardware configuration of the image scanner 1 will be described with reference to a block diagram of FIG. In the image scanner 1 of the present embodiment, an original reading operation is performed by a host computer (described later) from the interface 25.
Is executed by sending a command to the CPU 26 via the. When reading an image of the original 5 using the ADF 3, when a necessary command is sent from the host computer via the interface 25, the CPU
Reference numeral 26 denotes a motor drive circuit 30 which performs data processing based on the status of each unit output from the various sensor processing units 27 and data stored in the ROM 28 while using the RAM 29 as a work area. To drive the motor 31 and the light source lighting device 32
A light-up signal is also sent to turn on the light source 7.

With the driving of the motor 31, the paper feed rollers 14,
By rotating the separation roller 16 and the feed roller 17, the documents 5 stacked on the document placing surface 13 are fed one by one into the document transport path 15, and the transport rollers 19 while passing the reading position A. Then, the sheet is directed toward the sheet discharge tray 4 by the pair of conveying rollers 20 and the pair of sheet discharge rollers 21. During such conveyance, the image of the original 5 is read by the image reading unit 33 at the reading position A, and the read image information is processed by the image processing unit 34. That is, at the reading position A, the original 5
Is illuminated by the light source 7 and the reflected light is sequentially reflected by the first, second, and third mirrors 8, 9, and 10, and then the imaging lens 11
Is formed on the photoelectric conversion element 12 by
Image information on the document 5 is read by the photoelectric conversion element 12.

When reading the image of the original 5 without using the ADF 3, the ADF 3 is opened and the original 5 is set directly on the contact glass 6, then the ADF 3 is closed as a pressure plate, and the light source 7 and the first and second light sources 1 and 2 are closed. , 3 mirrors 8,9,
The reflected light from the original 5 is sequentially reflected by the first, second and third mirrors 8, 9 and 10 while the scanning movement of the original 10 is performed by the traveling body.
By forming an image on the upper side, image information on the original 5 is read by the photoelectric conversion element 12.

Here, an outline of the circuit configuration of the image reading section 33 will be described with reference to FIG. First, the light emitted from the light source 7 is reflected by the density reference plate 22 a or the original 5 and enters the photoelectric conversion element 12 via the first, second, third mirrors 8, 9, 10 and the imaging lens 11. This photoelectric conversion element 1
The image information stored in No. 2 is 2 for each even-numbered pixel and odd-numbered pixel.
The signal is divided into systems, converted into analog signals, and output to the image reading unit 33. In the image reading unit 33, the analog signal is input to the sample hold units 35 and 36 for each even-numbered pixel and each odd-numbered pixel, sampled and held, and then alternately synthesized for each pixel by the multiplex unit 37. One signal is obtained in a series. After the synthesized analog signal is amplified by the amplifier 38,
The digital signal is converted by the A / D converter 40 based on the reference voltage Vref output from the reference voltage generator 39 controlled by the CPU 26. The digital signal is output to the image processing unit 34. In addition,
As is well known, the digitized read data of the density reference plate 22a is stored in a memory and used as shading correction data when actually reading an original image.

In FIG. 5, a two-channel type photoelectric conversion element that outputs signals for even and odd pixels is used as the photoelectric conversion element 12. However, a one-channel type photoelectric conversion element is used, and the sample hold section and the subsequent parts are used as one system. Plex part 3
7 may be omitted.

Next, the image scanner 1 of the present embodiment
A more detailed configuration of the overall configuration will be described with reference to a block diagram shown in FIG. This image scanner 1
Is a device control block 51 having, as main components, a CPU 26, a ROM 28 storing program data and fixed data, and a RAM 29 serving as a work area for the CPU 26. The photoelectric conversion element 12 and the A / D converter 40
In addition, a read block 53 that includes a timing generation unit 52 that generates an operation timing signal of the photoelectric conversion element 12 and performs processing until image information on the document 5 is converted into a digital signal. An image processing block 55 that mainly includes an image processing unit 34 that performs various image processing on the digital signal and a memory unit 54 that is used by the image processing unit 34 when the image processing is performed. And an I / F section 58 for transmitting a digital signal subjected to predetermined image processing to a host computer 57 via an I / F cable 56.
An I / F block 60 having an I / F control unit 59 for controlling the unit 58 as a main component. A motor drive control unit 61 and a light source control unit 62 for driving the stepping motor 31 and the light source 7 when reading the original 5. The main components of the drive control block 63 are optional devices A64, B65, and C66 that can be attached by the user according to the application, and these optional devices A
An option block 68 composed of an option detection / control / power supply section 67 for managing and controlling the connection state of 64, B65, and C66. An AC input terminal 69 for connecting to a commercial AC power supply.
A DC power supply 70 for converting the AC power supplied from the AC input terminal 69 into a required DC power; and a DC power generated by the DC power
1, 53, 55, 60, 63, 68.

In the case of the image scanner 1 having the ADF 3 as in this embodiment, a functional block for controlling driving components such as a stepping motor and an electromagnetic clutch mounted on the ADF 3 is further added. .

Each of these functional blocks 51, 53, 5
5, 60, 63, 68 and the power control unit 71 are mutually connected by a CPU bus line 72 and a power supply line 73.

In the example shown in FIG. 6, the types of optional devices are shown as three types, A, B, and C. However, this is a matter determined by the standards and specifications of the image scanner 1, and may be increased or decreased as needed. Is done. The DC power supply 70
Is provided with a main switch 74. By turning on / off the main switch 74, the AC power to the image scanner 1 can be turned on / off.

Here, the internal configuration and operation of the DC power supply section 70 serving as the power supply means shown in FIG. 6 will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. First, the main switch 74
Is turned on, commercial AC power is supplied to the DC power supply unit 70 from the AC input terminal 69 via the power cord 75. The supplied commercial AC power passes through a primary-side protection circuit fuse 76, is rectified and smoothed by a primary-side rectification / smoothing circuit unit 77, and is converted into a high-frequency pulse by an on / off operation of a switching FET 78. Then, it is applied to the main transformer 79. In the main transformer 79, the applied high-frequency pulse is converted into a predetermined voltage according to the winding ratio between the primary side and the secondary side, and then output to the secondary side rectification / smoothing circuit unit 80. In the secondary side rectifying / smoothing circuit section 80 functioning as a DC power supply, the voltage output from the main transformer 79 is rectified and smoothed to obtain a predetermined DC voltage.
Output to 1.

In FIG. 7, the secondary side rectifying / smoothing circuit 8
Although the voltage value of the DC voltage output from 0 to the power supply control unit 71 is shown as one type, in reality,
+5 as usual depending on the configuration of the image scanner 1
A plurality of types of DC voltages such as V, + 24V, + 12V, and -12V are generated and output.

The DC power supply 70 is provided with an oscillation circuit 81 for generating a gate signal for turning on / off the switching FET 78.
Further, information such as a change in the DC voltage generated by the secondary-side rectification / smoothing circuit unit 80 is fed back to the oscillation control unit 83 via an insulating element, for example, a photocoupler 82. As a result, the oscillation circuit section 81 sets the switching FET based on the feedback information.
The output DC voltage is stabilized by automatically adjusting the duty of the gate signal 78. The oscillation control unit 83 controls output and stop of a gate signal to the switching FET 78 based on an on / off control signal from the power supply control unit 71.

FIG. 8 shows the internal configuration and operation of the power supply control unit 71 functioning as power supply control means shown in FIG.
This will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. A plurality of types of DC voltages generated by the DC power supply 70 are
In accordance with a command input to the control unit 91 provided in the inside and transmitted from the device control block 51 via the CPU bus 72, according to an operation, a state, an optional mounting state, etc., requested of the image scanner 1. The required type of voltage for the required functional block is supplied to the power supply line 73.
Is supplied via

The power supply control section 71 includes a backup battery 92 which is a backup power supply for a secondary battery such as a nickel-cadmium battery.
The backup battery 92 is connected to a remaining amount detecting means 93 for detecting the remaining capacity, and functions to charge the backup battery 92 via a charging means 94 when the remaining capacity becomes low. I do.

Further, the document presence sensor 23 and the open / close detection sensor 95 are connected to the control section 91. The document presence / absence sensor 23 is a sensor for a sheet-through mode that detects whether or not the document 5 to be read is set in the image scanner 1 equipped with the ADF 3. When reading the original 5 in the book mode, the open / close detection sensor 95 contacts the original 5 to be read with the contact glass 6.
This is a sensor for detecting that the ADF 3 (or a simple pressure plate) has been opened to set directly on the top. The power of these two types of sensors 23 and 95 is controlled by the power controller 7.
Supplied from 1. In addition, these two types of sensors 2
The detection signals 3 and 95 are sent to the control unit 91 in the power supply control unit 71 via the selector 96 or to the device control block 51 via the CPU bus 72. Operation request signals from the I / F block 60 and the option block 68 are also input to the selector 96.

The I / F block 60 is always supplied with necessary power so as to always respond to an operation request signal from the host computer 57. Similarly, when an option having a function as an extension I / F is connected to the option block 68, an operation request signal from a device connected via the extension option can be always accommodated. When it is detected that an option having an extension I / F function is connected to the option mounting slot, control is performed so that power is always supplied only to the extension I / F option. The selector 96 receives the oscillation on / off signal, and the sensor 23,
The detection signal from the sensor 95 is sent to the device control unit 51 via the CPU bus 72. When the oscillation on / off signal is off, the detection signal from the sensors 23 and 95 is sent to the power supply control unit 7.
1 is sent to the control unit 91.

Here, upon receiving these signals, the oscillation is turned on.
A configuration example of the on / off signal generation unit 97 in the control unit 91 that generates and outputs an off signal will be described with reference to FIG. This on
The off signal generator 97 includes an OR gate 98 and an SR flip-flop 99. The OR gate 98 is connected to the set terminal S of the flip-flop 99 to generate an ON signal. In this embodiment, a 5-input OR gate element is used. The five types of input signals to the OR gate 98 include:
As described above, the detection signal from the document presence sensor 23,
A detection signal from the open / close detection sensor 95, an oscillation on signal from the device control block 51, an operation request signal from the I / F block 60, and an operation request signal from the option block 68 are used. The operation request signal from the option block 68 is valid only when an option functioning as an extension I / F is connected to the option mounting slot. The oscillation off signal from the device control block 51 is supplied to the reset terminal R of the flip-flop 99.

The on / off signal generation section 97 shown in FIG. 9 included in the control section 91 is replaced with an SR type flip-flop 99 instead of a small-sized microcomputer with small power consumption. It may be realized by using. The on / off signal generation unit 97
The control unit 91 in the power supply control unit 71 is configured to be constantly driven by the backup battery 92. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, when the oscillation on / off signal is an ON signal (that is, when the DC power supply 70 (When voltage is supplied), the power may be supplied from the DC power supply unit 70, and the power may be supplied from the backup battery 92 only when the oscillation on / off signal is off.

Next, an example of the configuration of the option block 68 for controlling optional devices that can be mounted on the image scanner 1 at the user level will be described with reference to the block diagram shown in FIG. The option block 68 detects the connection state of the connectable optional devices A 64, B 65, and C 66, and detects the operation of the necessary optional devices when there is a read request accompanied by the optional operation via the CPU bus 72. Option detecting / controlling unit 101 as means, and each of the optional devices A64, B65, C66 in response to a command from the option detecting / controlling unit 101.
An optional power supply control unit 102 for supplying power to the
An option detection / configuration unit configured with a nonvolatile memory unit 103 for storing and managing the connection status of the option device.
The control / power supply unit 67 is provided.

This option detection / control / power supply section 6
7, each time the main switch 74 of the image scanner 1 is turned on (that is, every time the commercial AC power is turned on), the connection state of the optional device is detected by the option detection / control unit 101, and the connection state of the connection state is detected. The data is stored in the nonvolatile memory unit 103. The nonvolatile memory unit 103 stores data of the connection state of the optional device when the main switch 74 was turned on in the past (one time before the present), and a new main switch 74 is turned on. It is also possible to compare the data on the connection status of the new and old optional devices at the time of the change, and if the data is different, prompt the user to confirm.

When an optional device having a function as an extension I / F is connected, for example, the extension I / F
It is conceivable that the connection is made to an external device such as the host computer 57 by utilizing the above. In such a case, the extended I /
F is determined in advance to indicate that the extension I / F is connected, and when the extension I / F is detected to be connected, the extension I / F is supplied to the optional power supply control unit 102.
The option power supply control unit 102 sends a command to always supply necessary power to the F, and the optional power supply control unit 102 in accordance with the command inputs a slot (any one of the optional devices A64, B65, and C66) to which the extension I / F is connected. Power is supplied to the slot to which the extension I / F is connected.

Upon receiving a read request using an option, the device control block 51 sends a necessary command to the option detection / control unit 101 so that the required option can be operated. In response to the command, the option detection / control unit 101 sends a command to the optional power supply control unit 102 to supply power only to necessary optional devices. In response to this, the optional power supply control unit 102 supplies necessary power only to the required optional equipment according to the command.

In such a configuration, power control of the image scanner 1 in the present embodiment will be described with reference to a flowchart shown in FIG. First, when the main switch 74 is turned on (step S1), the power control unit 71
A predetermined DC voltage is supplied to all the functional blocks 51, 53, 55, 60, 63, and 68, which are configured inside the image scanner 1, via the power supply line 73 (S2). At this time, detection signals from the document presence sensor 23, the open / close detection sensor 95, and operation request signals from the I / F block 60 and the option block 68 are transmitted to the CPU bus 72.
Is input to the selector 96 configured in the power supply control unit 71 via the control circuit 71, and the oscillation on / off signal is set as the on signal.

When power is supplied, the device control block 51 follows the program stored in the ROM 28 to
U26 performs an initial operation. At this time, it is detected whether or not an optional device is mounted in the option mounting slot provided in the option block 68. If it is recognized that the optional device is present, the detection of which optional device is mounted is performed. Perform (S3)
Non-volatile memory 10
3 (S4). At the same time, the option data registered when the attachment state of the optional device was detected last time is compared with the current data to detect whether or not the data has been changed (S4). As a result of this comparison, when it is determined that the configuration of the optional device has been changed, some means such as a display LED panel or the like installed on the front of the apparatus to indicate the operation state of the image scanner 1 is used. Call attention to the user.

When such a type of optional device is detected, it is also detected whether or not an optional device having an extended I / F function is attached (S5).
When an optional device having the extended I / F function is detected, the command (eg, a document reading request) from an external device connected to the optional device having the extended I / F function is also received. The option detection / control / power supply unit 67 controls so that the power that can be detected is supplied (S6).

On the other hand, when the CPU 26 recognizes that the document 5 is set based on the detection signals from the document presence sensor 23 and the open / close detection sensor 95 (Y in S7), the host computer 57 sends the document as it is via the user interface. Waiting for an operation request signal (including a parameter for determining an operation mode) input to the I / F block 60 (S19).

If the original 5 is not set (S
7) (N), after a predetermined period of time (T1) elapses (Y in S8), the remaining capacity of the backup battery 92 is detected by the remaining capacity detecting means 93 to determine whether the remaining capacity is sufficient. Check (S9). If the remaining capacity is not sufficient, the backup battery 92 is charged using the charging means 94 until the capacity reaches the specified value (S1).
0).

Next, since the image scanner 1 at this time is in the standby state (first-stage standby state), the apparatus control block 51 issues a command to cut off the power supply to unnecessary function blocks. Send to control unit 71. That is, a power-down process for cutting off the power supply to the drive control block 63, the reading block 53, and the image processing block 55 is performed (S11, 12, 13). The I / F block 60 is supplied with at least enough power to detect the reception of a command from the host computer 57.

Regarding this processing and the processing of step S6,
The power down mode of the components of the I / F block 60 and the optional device having the extended I / F function may be utilized to reduce the DC voltage required for these components.

In any case, by these operations, the power consumption when the image scanner 1 is in the standby state is limited to the minimum necessary functional blocks, so that the whole can be sufficiently reduced.

Thereafter, when a predetermined time (T2), which has been set in advance, elapses in this state (standby state at the second stage), the device control block 51 checks whether there is any remaining data in the memory unit 54 or the like ( S14) If there is no remaining data, a command to turn off the oscillation on / off signal is sent to the power control unit 71. Power supply control unit 7 receiving this command
1 switches the control unit 91 so that the required power supply voltage is supplied from the backup battery 92 to only the minimum necessary functional blocks (S15),
The off signal is switched to the off signal (S16). The oscillation control unit 83 in the DC power supply 70 switches the switching FET 78 based on the switching of the oscillation on / off signal to the off signal.
Operates to shut off the gate signal to

At this time, the backup battery 92
ON / OFF signal generation unit 97 in power supply control unit 71 and I / F
Necessary parts in block 60, sensors 23 and 95, and extension I
When an optional device having the / F function is connected, power is supplied to only necessary parts in the optional device.

When the detection signal from the sensors 23 and 95 and the operation request signal from the I / F block 60 and the option block 68 are detected in such a complete standby state of the image scanner 1 (Y in S17), it is turned on. The oscillation ON / OFF signal is switched to the ON signal by the OFF signal generation unit 97 (S18). Thereby, the DC power supply 70
Output the ON signal of the oscillation ON / OFF signal to
The power supply control unit 71 is operated to switch the power supply source from the backup battery 92 to the DC power supply unit 70. Therefore, the DC power supply unit 70 supplies a gate signal to the switching FET 78 based on the ON signal of the oscillation ON / OFF signal, outputs a DC voltage from the DC power supply unit 70, and supplies power to all functional blocks in the image scanner 1. (S2).

At this time, if the operation mode of the image scanner 1 is determined by the detection signals from the sensors 23 and 95 and the reading request signal from the I / F block 60 or the option block 68, for example, the sensor from the document presence sensor 23 If the signal detects a document set, it is determined that the reading operation in the sheet-through mode by the ADF 3 is to be performed, and the power supply control unit 71 supplies a power supply line so as to supply a power supply voltage only to functional blocks necessary for the operation. 73 is controlled. Here, the power supply control unit 71 functions as a selection unit.

When the minimum necessary functional blocks of the image scanner 1 are supplied with power from the backup battery 92 (ie, when the power consumption in the standby state is the lowest), for some reason. When the main switch 74 is turned off, an AC-off detection unit (not shown, for which an AC-off is also detected in the DC power supply unit 70) prepared in advance in the power supply control unit 71 in the DC power supply unit 70 It is also possible to generate an AC power detection signal to detect that the main switch 74 is shut off. In such a case, the host computer 5 uses the AC power detection signal.
7 is detected by the I / F block 60 or the sensors 23, 95 and the like detect that the document 5 is set, the user is informed that the main switch 74 is not turned on. It is also possible to adopt a configuration for causing recognition.

A second embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. The same parts as those described in the above embodiment are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof will be omitted. In the present embodiment, similarly to the above-described embodiment, the image scanner 1 is configured as a combination of functional blocks 51, 53, 55, 60, 63, 68, etc. divided according to functions, and according to the state of the apparatus. The power supply operation is basically controlled by power supply, but a power reduction mode that minimizes the power consumption is prepared, and the user can arbitrarily set the power consumption reduction time period for performing the power reduction mode. It is configured as follows. That is, in the above embodiment, all the controls are set to be performed on the machine side, but in the present embodiment, the setting regarding the power consumption reduction time zone is open to the user.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 12, setting means 111 for arbitrarily inputting and setting a power consumption reduction time zone.
Is provided. As the setting unit 111, for example, an operation unit or the like of the host computer 57 connected via a user interface 112 is used. However, if an operation panel can be mounted on the image scanner 1, the operation panel 113 can be used. Alternatively, a dip switch or the like prepared in advance in the image scanner 1 may be used. The user interface 112 or the operation panel 113 is connected to the control unit 91 in the power supply control unit 71 via the power reduction mode setting detection unit 114. On the other hand, the power reduction mode setting detection unit 114 is connected to an EEPROM 115 which is storage means for storing information on the mode setting of the power reduction mode and the power consumption reduction time zone, and a timer 116 having a clock function for managing time information. Have been. The EEPROM 115 is a storage element capable of electrically writing and erasing information, but may be another storage element.

The on / off signal control section 121 in the control section 91 according to the present embodiment is provided as shown in FIG.
In addition to the R gate 98 and the SR flip-flop 9,
It is composed of two OR gates 122 and 123, one AND gate 124, one OR gate 125, and an input switching circuit 126 provided on their input side.
Here, the on / off signal control unit 121 performs the detection signal from the document presence / absence sensor 23, the detection signal from the open / close detection sensor 95, and the device control block 51 as in the case shown in FIG.
, An operation request signal from the I / F block 60, and an operation request signal from the option block 68. The OR gate 98
Is connected to the set terminal S of the flip-flop 99 to generate an ON signal, and a 5-input OR gate element is used to input these five types of signals. In response, the input switching circuit 126
Has a terminal a for inputting five types of signals to the OR gate 98 side.

The other terminal b of the input switching circuit 126
The terminal corresponding to the detection signal from the document presence sensor 23 and the detection signal from the open / close detection sensor 95 is input to the OR gate 122, and the operation request signal from the I / F block 60 and the option block 68 The terminal corresponding to the operation request signal is input to the OR gate 123. The output side of these OR gates 122 and 123 is AN
The signal is input to the D gate 124. Further, a terminal b corresponding to the oscillation on signal from the device control block 51 is connected to the terminal b.
The output of the D gate 124 is input to the OR gate 125, and the output side of the OR gate 125 is input to the set terminal S of the flip-flop 99. These terminals b
Each of the gates 122 to 125 is for the power reduction mode, and any one of the detection signal from the document presence sensor 23 and the detection signal from the open / close detection sensor 95 and the I / F block 6
When either one of the operation request signal from 0 and the operation request signal from the option block 68 is output, or when the oscillation ON signal from the device control block 51 is output,
The flip-flop 99 is set so that the oscillation ON signal is output as the oscillation ON / OFF signal.

Here, the input switching circuit 126 is constituted by a switching circuit such as a relay, for example.
The operation control means 127 for switching whether or not the
They are connected via an ND gate 128. The operation control means 127 receives the information from the power reduction mode setting detection unit 114 and converts the information on whether or not the power consumption is within the power consumption reduction time zone and the information on the relay ON / OFF with the AND.
By outputting to the gate 128, the input switching circuit 126
Control the switching operation.

In such a configuration, it is left to the user to set the mode of the power reduction mode, that is, to set the power consumption reduction time period for executing this mode, and use the power reduction mode. In this case, information on the power consumption reduction time zone is set by key operation on the host computer 57 using the user interface 112 or the like. In this case, as a method of setting the power consumption reduction time zone, a time zone such as midnight on weekdays (outside of working hours) or a time zone such as a holiday may be arbitrarily specified according to the usage pattern of the user. Information on the set power consumption reduction time zone is stored in the EEPROM 115.

Next, the power control of the image scanner 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 and the time chart shown in FIG. First, when the main switch 74 is turned on (S
1), all functional blocks 51, 53, 55, 60, 63,
Power is supplied to the power supply 68 (S2), and a detection process as to whether or not the power reduction mode is set is performed as part of the initial process when the power is turned on (S2 '). E
If the power consumption reduction time zone is set in EPROM 115, it is recognized that the power reduction mode is set, and if the power consumption reduction time zone is not set, it is recognized that the power reduction mode is not set.

Here, for example, when it is recognized that the power reduction mode has not been set, the processes of steps S3 to S13 are executed as in the case described with reference to FIG. That is, when a predetermined time (T1) elapses without a document being set (N in S7), processing for cutting off power supply to unnecessary function blocks is performed (S11 to S13). Conversely, the DC power supply unit 7 is provided for the minimum necessary function blocks.
A state where a DC voltage is supplied from 0 is obtained. In the case of the present embodiment, this state is maintained until there is an operation request (S
21 N, S22). As a result, the apparatus is maintained in the “device-unrequested standby mode” that consumes less power than in the case of a simple device standby state. At this time, the input switching circuit 126 maintains the state held on the terminal a side. If there is a read request in this “device no request standby mode” state (S22
(Y), power is supplied to the necessary functional blocks by the DC power supply unit 70 (S22), and the reading operation is executed (S23). If there is a next read request (Y in S24), the processes in steps S22 and S23 are repeated, and if there is no read request (N in S24), the process waits until a read request occurs.

FIG. 15A is a time chart schematically showing a temporal change in power consumption when the power reduction mode is not set. In the figure, a section A indicates a mere standby state in which power is supplied to all functional blocks, and a section B indicates a standby state in the “device-unrequested standby mode” state.

On the other hand, power control when it is recognized that the power reduction mode is set will be described. In this case,
The time is managed by the timer 116 for the information of the power consumption reduction time zone stored in the EEPROM 115,
It is always checked whether the current time point belongs to the power consumption reduction time zone or whether it is a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone (S26). In such a situation, for example, in a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone, the processes of steps S3 to S13 are performed in the same manner as in the case described with reference to FIG. 11 and the case where the power reduction mode is not set. Be executed. That is, when a predetermined time (T1) elapses without a document being set (N in S7), processing for cutting off power supply to unnecessary function blocks is performed (S11 to S13). This state is maintained until there is an operation request or the power consumption reduction time period is entered (Y in S21, N in S26,
S22). As a result, the apparatus is maintained in the “device-unrequested standby mode” that consumes less power than in the case of a simple device standby state. At this time, the input switching circuit 126 maintains the state held on the terminal a side. When a read request is issued in the "device-unrequested standby mode" state (Y in S22), power is supplied to necessary functional blocks by the DC power supply unit 70 (S22), and a read operation is executed (S23). . If there is a next read request (S2
(4) (Y), the processing of steps S22 and S23 is repeated, and if there is no reading request (N of S24), the process stands by until a reading request occurs. Therefore, also in this case, the state of the temporal change of the power consumption is the same as the case of FIG.

After that, time elapses, the power consumption reduction time zone is entered (Y in S26), and when a predetermined time (T2) elapses in this state, the device control block 51 stores in the memory section. The presence or absence of remaining data at 54 or the like is confirmed (S27), and if there is no remaining data, a command to turn off the oscillation on / off signal is sent to the power control unit 71. Upon receiving this command, the power supply control unit 71 switches the control unit 91 so that the required power supply voltage is supplied from the backup battery 92 to only the minimum necessary function blocks (S28), and turns off the oscillation on / off signal. Switch to a signal (S29). The oscillation control unit 83 in the DC power supply unit 70 operates to cut off the gate signal to the switching FET 78 based on the switching of the oscillation on / off signal to the off signal. At the same time, the operation control means 12
7, the relay on signal and the signal in the power consumption reduction time zone are output to the AND gate 128, so that the input switching circuit 126 is switched to the terminal b side.

At this time, the backup battery 92
The on / off signal generator 121 in the power supply controller 71 and the I / O
When the necessary parts in the F block 60, the sensors 23 and 95, and the optional equipment having the extended I / F function are connected, power is supplied only to the necessary parts in the optional equipment. This is the backup battery 92
Minimum power supply (power consumption is approximately 0W)
Power reduction mode state.

After power is turned on, the temporal change of the power consumption until shifting to the power reduction mode is schematically shown in the left part of FIG. 15B. That is, the mode shifts to the power reduction mode stepwise after the predetermined times T1 and T2.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a control process in the power consumption reduction time period in which the power reduction mode based on the user setting is executed. First, during this power consumption reduction time zone, an operation request signal from the I / F block 60 or the option block 68 is output from the OR gate 1
When the detection is detected by the output of the sensor 23 (Y in S30) and the detection signal from the sensor 23 or 95 is detected by the output of the OR gate 122 (Y in S31), the power reduction mode is temporarily released (S32). . In steps S30 and S31, the function of the detecting means is executed. This allows
The off signal generator 121 switches the oscillation on / off signal from the flip-flop 99 to an on signal. Thereby, the ON signal of the oscillation ON / OFF signal is output to the DC power supply unit 70, and the power supply control unit 71 is operated so as to switch the power supply source from the backup battery 92 to the DC power supply unit 70. Therefore, the DC power supply 70 switches the switching FE based on the ON signal of the oscillation ON / OFF signal.
A gate signal is supplied to T78, a DC voltage is output from the DC power supply unit 70, and necessary function blocks in the image scanner 1 are selected (S33), and power supply control is performed so that the power supply voltage is supplied only to these function blocks. The unit 71 controls switching of the power supply line 73. Then, after performing the reading operation (S34), it is checked whether there is any remaining original (S35). If there are remaining originals or remaining data (Y in S37 or Y in S36), the process is repeated. If not (N in S37, N in S36), the oscillation on / off signal from the flip-flop 99 is turned off. And immediately return to the power reduction mode. In step S36 or S37, the function of detecting the end of the process in response to the operation request of the detecting means is executed.

In the power reduction mode, a temporal change in power consumption when an operation is requested is schematically shown in the right part of FIG. 15B.

Thereafter, when the time is no longer within the power consumption reduction time zone (N in S39), the oscillation on / off signal is switched to an ON signal (S40), and the time zone other than the power down power consumption reduction time zone is changed. To the standby state.

Therefore, according to the present embodiment, the user arbitrarily sets in advance the power consumption reduction time period in which the power reduction mode is to be executed for the time period that is considered to be hardly used in accordance with the usage mode of the apparatus. Can be kept
Even if the power switch is kept turned on, wasteful power consumption can be minimized. That is, by opening the setting of the power consumption reduction time zone to the user, it is possible to more appropriately reduce the power consumption in accordance with the needs of the user. Also, according to the present embodiment, if the image scanner 1 is in the standby state even in a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone, the “device-unnecessary standby mode” in which the power consumption is lower than in the simple standby state. Thus, power can be reduced. Furthermore, during the power reduction mode, not only is there an operation request signal from the I / F block 60 or the option block 68, but also a preparation is made so that the original is set and ready to be read immediately. When the detection signal from the sensor 23 or 95 indicating the performed stage is received, the power reduction mode is released and the reading operation is performed, and after the processing is completed, the power reduction mode is immediately returned to the power reduction mode. Power consumption can be reduced as much as possible.

Although the image scanner 1 of these embodiments is applied to a reflection type in which an original image is read by reflected light, it can be similarly applied to a transmission type in which an original image is read by transmitted light.

[0074]

According to the first aspect of the present invention, a document to be read is illuminated by a light source by operating in a reading operation mode designated via a user interface, and reflected light or transmitted light is photoelectrically converted. In an image reading apparatus that takes out image information on the document as an electric signal by receiving light with a conversion element and performing photoelectric conversion, the inside of the apparatus is subdivided into a plurality of functional blocks according to functions, and required operations, standby states and the like are performed. The power supply is controlled so as to supply only the necessary power to the necessary function blocks according to the state of the device, so that the necessary functions are not impaired and the power switch of the device is kept turned on. In each state, power is not supplied to unnecessary function blocks, and wasteful power consumption can be suppressed as much as possible.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the first aspect, the power supply means includes a DC power supply, the power supply control means includes a chargeable backup power supply, and the power supply control means. The standby state of the apparatus is set stepwise according to the duration thereof, and at the time of the first stage standby state, power is supplied to the minimum necessary functional blocks by the DC power supply. In the state, the power supply from the DC power supply is cut off and the power supply from the backup power supply is switched to the minimum necessary function block, and when there is an operation request to the device, the operation is switched from the DC power supply to the necessary function block. Power supply, so that in the standby state that occupies most of the equipment, wasteful power consumption is suppressed even if the power switch is kept on. While it is possible to maintain the stand-by state, can be released from the burden related to the on-off operation of the power switch to the user.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the first or second aspect, since the detecting means for detecting the connection state of the optional device connected to the apparatus is provided, the connected optional device is provided. Information about the device can be notified to the user, and the user's management burden on optional devices connectable to the device can be reduced.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus of the first aspect, the power supply means includes a DC power supply, the power supply control means includes a chargeable backup power supply, Setting means for setting the power consumption reduction time zone, and storage means for storing information of the set power consumption reduction time zone, wherein the power supply control means is used when the device belonging to the power consumption reduction time zone is on standby. According to the power reduction mode, power is supplied from the backup power supply to the minimum necessary function blocks, so that the user can reduce the power consumption during the time period when it is considered that the power supply is hardly used in accordance with the usage mode of the device. The power consumption reduction time period for executing the mode can be arbitrarily set in advance, and even if the power switch is kept turned on, power is wasted. It is possible to minimize the consumption,
After all, by opening the setting of the power consumption reduction time zone to the user, it is possible to more appropriately reduce the power consumption according to the needs of the user.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus of the fourth aspect, there is provided a detecting means for detecting an operation request to the apparatus and an end thereof, and the power supply control means comprises:
In a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone, the power is supplied to the minimum necessary function blocks by the DC power supply on condition that the detection unit detects that there is no operation request to the device for a predetermined time or more, thereby reducing power consumption. When entering the time zone, the detection means shifts to the power reduction mode stepwise through the power supply to the minimum necessary functional blocks by the DC power supply on condition that there is no operation request to the apparatus for a predetermined time or more. While the power reduction mode is maintained, and when an operation request to the device is detected by the detection means during the power reduction mode, the power reduction mode is canceled to supply power from the DC power supply to necessary functional blocks. When the detection means detects the end of the process for the operation request, the mode is immediately returned to the power reduction mode. Even in a time zone other than the power consumption reduction time zone for the power reduction mode, the power can be reduced if the apparatus is in the standby state, and if the apparatus is operated in response to an operation request to the apparatus during the power reduction mode. When the end is detected, it immediately returns to the power reduction mode,
The power consumption can be reduced to the maximum.

According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image reading apparatus according to the fourth or fifth aspect, the setting means can freely set the power consumption reduction time zone via the user interface. The setting operation regarding the time zone can be easily performed by the user via the user interface in the same manner as the designation of the reading operation mode.

According to the invention of claim 7, according to claim 1,
In the image reading apparatus described in 2, 3, 4, 5, or 6, the power supply control unit has a function necessary for each function block including the optional device to realize an operation requested via a user interface. It has a selection means for selecting a block, and controls so as to supply necessary power only to the selected function block, so that it is necessary to realize the required operation for each function block including optional equipment The necessary power can be supplied only to the functional blocks, and wasteful power consumption can be reduced to the maximum.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of an image scanner according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a schematic front view showing the internal structure.

FIG. 3 is an enlarged schematic front view showing the vicinity of a reading position.

FIG. 4 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image scanner.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the image reading unit.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the entire image scanner divided into functional blocks.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a DC power supply unit.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a power supply control unit.

FIG. 9 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration of an oscillation on / off signal generation unit.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an option block.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a power control process.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an oscillation on state according to a second embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 3 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration of an off signal generation unit.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a power control process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a process during the power reduction mode.

FIG. 15A is a time chart schematically illustrating a temporal change in power consumption when the power reduction mode is not set, and FIG. 15B is a power chart when the power reduction mode is set. It is a time chart which shows roughly the mode of the temporal displacement of consumption.

[Explanation of symbols]

5 Document 7 Light source 12 Photoelectric conversion element 51, 53, 55, 60, 63, 68 Function block 64, 65, 66 Optional equipment 70 Power supply means 71, 91 Power supply control means 80 DC power supply 92 Backup power supply 111 Input means 112 User interface 115 Storage means

Claims (7)

[Claims] 1. An original document to be read is illuminated by a light source, and the reflected light or transmitted light is received by a photoelectric conversion element and photoelectrically converted by operating in a reading operation mode designated via a user interface. In the image reading apparatus for extracting the image information on the document as an electric signal, the inside of the apparatus comprises a combination of a plurality of functional blocks divided according to functions, and a power supply means for supplying necessary power for each of these functional blocks An image reading device comprising: a power supply control unit configured to control a supply operation of the power supply unit according to a state of the apparatus. 2. The power supply means includes a DC power supply, and the power supply control means includes a rechargeable backup power supply. The power supply control means sets a standby state of the apparatus in a stepwise manner according to the duration thereof. In the standby state of the first stage, the power supply is supplied to the minimum necessary functional blocks by the DC power supply. In the standby state of the second stage, the power supply from the DC power supply is cut off and 2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the power supply to the function block is switched to the power supply from the backup power supply, and when there is an operation request to the apparatus, the power supply is returned from the DC power supply to the necessary function block. apparatus. 3. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect a connection state of an optional device connected to the apparatus. 4. A power supply means comprising a DC power supply, a power supply control means comprising a rechargeable backup power supply, a setting means for setting a power consumption reduction time zone for a power reduction mode, and the set power consumption. Storage means for storing information on the reduction time zone, wherein the power supply control means uses the backup power supply for the minimum necessary function blocks according to the power reduction mode during standby of the device belonging to the power consumption reduction time zone. 2. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein power is supplied. 5. A power supply control unit comprising: a detection unit configured to detect an operation request to the apparatus and an end thereof, wherein the power supply control unit transmits the request to the apparatus for a predetermined time or more in a time period other than the power consumption reduction time period. The power supply to the minimum necessary function block by the DC power supply is performed on condition that detection of no operation request is performed, and when the power consumption reduction time zone is entered, the detection means does not require an operation to the device for a predetermined time or more. The power supply to the minimum necessary function block by the DC power supply is performed on condition of the detection, and the mode is gradually shifted to the power reduction mode to maintain the power reduction mode. When the operation request is detected, the power reduction mode is released, and the power supply from the DC power supply to the necessary functional blocks is returned. 5. The image reading apparatus according to claim 4, wherein when the end of the processing for the request is detected, the mode is immediately returned to the power reduction mode. 6. The image reading apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the setting unit is capable of setting a power consumption reduction time zone via a user interface. 7. A power supply control unit includes a selection unit for selecting a function block necessary for realizing an operation requested via a user interface for each function block including an optional device. 7. The image reading apparatus according to claim 1, wherein control is performed so as to supply necessary power only to the function blocks.