JP2005250960A - Power supply state management apparatus for information processing apparatus and power supply state management apparatus for information processing system using it - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a power supply state management apparatus for information processing apparatuses, which can reduce total power consumption including the host side by controlling the state of power supply of information processing apparatuses in the host side, which are connected with clients through a network, according to the state of electric power of the clients, and a power supply state management apparatus for information processing systems using it. <P>SOLUTION: Based on the state of power supply of a client terminal, which is managed by the client power supply state management means, a power supply state control means is structured so as to control the state of power supply of the information processing apparatus to solve problems. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus for managing the power state of an information processing apparatus in an information processing apparatus including an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copying machine, a facsimile, or a multifunction machine having these functions, to which an electrophotographic method is applied. The present invention relates to a power state management apparatus for an apparatus and a power state management apparatus for an information processing system using the same.

JP-A-6-290154 JP 2000-259292 A

  Conventionally, in an information processing apparatus including an image forming apparatus such as a printer, a copier, a facsimile, or a multifunction machine having these functions, to which this type of electrophotographic method is applied, there is a certain amount of When there is no external data input over time, or when there is no user interface operation for a certain period of time, the power status of this information processing device is set to a low power consumption state that consumes less power than the normal operating state. It is configured to save power by transitioning to a sleep state or a standby state.

  As techniques for reducing the power consumption of such information processing apparatuses, for example, those disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open Nos. 6-290154 and 2000-259292 have been proposed.

  In the technique disclosed in the above Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 6-290154, a plurality of clients connected to a server via a network are provided with means for notifying the server of the power state of the client via the network. When there is a client that knows the power status of the client and is in a power saving state, when information is sent from the outside to the client, the server receives the information instead of the client, and the client When returning to the power state, the server is configured to transmit the stored information to the client.

  In addition, the power control method according to the above Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2000-259292 is a power control method for an electronic device connected to a management device via a network, and when the electronic device is connected to the network, Power saving control of the electronic device is performed by the power saving control set in the management device, and when the electronic device is disconnected from the network, the power saving control of the electronic device is set in the electronic device. It is comprised so that it may carry out by.

  However, the conventional technique has the following problems. That is, in the case of the techniques disclosed in the above Japanese Patent Laid-Open Nos. 6-290154 and 2000-259292, the power state of a client such as an electronic device connected via a network is managed by a server or the like. It is configured to grasp the information on the device side, temporarily hold information on the server side according to the power status of the client, or control the power status of the client on the server side. Since it is not configured to control the state, as shown in FIG. 16, all the clients A, B, and C connected to the network are in the power saving state, and as a result, the client A and client B are connected. A server or printer connected to the client C via the network operates. Even if it is not necessary, image processing devices such as servers and copiers and printers that have the functions of the server are in a normal operating state for a certain input waiting time, and power is wasted. Had the problem of being sometimes.

  Therefore, the present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and its object is to provide information on the host side to which the client is connected via the network depending on the power state of the client. A power supply state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus capable of reducing the total power consumption including the host side by controlling the power supply state of the processing apparatus, and a power supply state management apparatus for an information processing system using the same It is to provide.

In order to solve the above problems, the invention described in claim 1 is
In a power supply state management device for an information processing device that manages a power supply state of an information processing device connected to a plurality of client terminals via a network,
The information processing apparatus
Based on the information of the client power state management means for managing the power state of the client terminal connected via the network, the management table generated by the power state management means, and the information of the management table means, Power supply state control means for controlling the state,
The power supply state control means controls the power supply state of the information processing apparatus based on the power supply state of the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means. is there.

  The invention described in claim 2 is characterized in that when all clients connected via the network transition to the power saving state, the information processing apparatus also transitions to the power saving state. It is a power supply state management apparatus of the information processing apparatus described in 1.

  Furthermore, the invention described in claim 3 limits the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means to a specific privileged client. The power supply of the information processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 It is a state management device.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, when there is a privileged client in operation when the information processing apparatus transitions to the power saving state, the information processing apparatus transitions to the power saving state. The power state management device for an information processing device according to claim 3, wherein the privileged client is inquired in advance about whether or not it is possible.

  Furthermore, in the invention described in claim 5, when there is a privileged client in operation when the information processing apparatus transitions to the power saving state, the information processing apparatus transitions to the power saving state. 6. The information processing apparatus power supply state management apparatus according to claim 5, wherein:

  The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the privileged client can determine a condition for the information processing apparatus to transition to a power saving state. It is a power state management device.

  Furthermore, in the invention described in claim 7, the condition that the information processing apparatus determined by the privileged client shifts to the power saving state is that the information processing apparatus receives “print instruction” or “the client terminal is in the operating state”. 7. The information processing apparatus power supply state management apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the information processing apparatus receives a notification that the information has been received.

The invention described in claim 8 is characterized in that an ordinary client terminal can temporarily become a privileged client. It is a power supply state management device.
Furthermore, in the invention described in claim 9, the temporary privileged client, when the temporary privileged client is not in operation when inquired about whether or not the temporary privileged client is in operation, 8. The information processing apparatus power state management apparatus according to claim 7, wherein setting as a client is invalid.

Moreover, the invention described in claim 10 is
In an information processing system power state management device that manages a power state of an information processing system in which a plurality of client terminals and information processing devices are connected to each other via a network,
The information processing apparatus
Client power state management means for managing the power state of client terminals connected via the network;
A management table generated by the power supply state management means;
Based on the information of the power policy means for managing the discipline information for transitioning the power state of the information processing apparatus to the power saving state, the power policy setting means for setting the discipline information of the power policy means, and the information of the management table means With power supply state control means for controlling the power supply state of the processing apparatus,
The client terminal
Power state management means for managing the power state of the client terminal itself;
Based on the information of the power policy means for managing the discipline information for changing the power state of the client terminal to the power saving state, the power policy setting means for setting the discipline information of the power policy means, and the information of the power policy setting means, the client Power supply state control means for controlling the power supply state of the terminal,
The power supply state control means of the information processing apparatus controls the power supply state of the information processing apparatus based on the power supply state of the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means. It is a state management device.

  According to the present invention, the total power consumption including the host side can be reduced by controlling the power state of the information processing apparatus on the host side to which the client is connected via the network according to the power state of the client. It is possible to provide a power state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus capable of performing the above and a power state management apparatus for an information processing system using the same.

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

Embodiment 1
FIG. 2 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an information processing system to which the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus for the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied.

As shown in FIG. 2, the information processing system 1 includes a printer (image forming apparatus) 2 as an information processing apparatus that performs image print processing, a client terminal 3 including a personal computer, and the printer 2 and client terminal. 3 are connected to each other. The printer 2 also has a function as a server-side terminal. Further, the printer 2 as the information processing apparatus is a multifunction machine (multifunction machine: MF machine) having functions such as a copying machine and a facsimile in addition to the function of the printer alone. The client terminal 3 is basically used by a user, but the client terminal 3 may function as an information providing side in some cases. For convenience, only three client terminals 3 ₁ , 3 _2, and 3 _n are shown as client terminals 3, but the number of client terminals 3 is not limited, and any number of client terminals 3 can be selected. Of course, the terminal 3 may be connected to the network 4. The printer 2 and the client terminal 3 are not limited to the form in which the printer 2 and the client terminal 3 are connected via the network 4, and a plurality of printers 2 exist as information processing apparatuses, or a server apparatus and client terminal (not shown) are connected via the network 4. May be connected.

  Examples of the network 4 include Ethernet (registered trademark), wired and wireless LAN (Local Area Network), general telephone line, ADSL (Asymmetoric Digital Subscriber Line), ISDN (Integrated Switched Digital Network), etc. This includes the Internet constructed via these networks.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 3, the printer 2 includes a scanner device 6 that reads an image of a document on the upper part of the printer main body 5. The document image data read by the scanner device 6 is converted into image format conversion, compression / expansion, show-through removal, color conversion (brightness / color space conversion), shading correction, and positional deviation by an image processor (not shown). Predetermined image processing such as correction, gamma correction, frame erasing, and color / movement editing is performed.

  Further, the printer 2 includes a multi-function module (hereinafter referred to as “MF module”) 7 in the printer body 5, and the MF module 7 is used for an image read by the scanner device 6 and a network. 4 to perform image data transmission / reception, copy and print processing based on image data, based on image data sent via 4 or facsimile image data sent via a general telephone line, etc. It is configured. The MF module 7 forms a black and white or color image by, for example, an electrophotographic method, but is not limited to this, and forms an image by an arbitrary method such as an electrostatic recording method or an inkjet recording method. It includes things that perform.

  By the way, in this embodiment, in the power supply state management apparatus of the information processing apparatus that manages the power supply state of the information processing apparatus connected to a plurality of client terminals via the network, the information processing apparatus is connected via the network. Controls the power status of the information processing apparatus based on the information of the client power status management means for managing the power status of the connected client terminal, the management table generated by the power status management means, and the management table means The power supply state control means is configured to control the power supply state of the information processing apparatus based on the power supply state of the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means. .

  Further, in this embodiment, when all clients connected via the network transition to the power saving state, the information processing apparatus is also transitioned to the power saving state.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, the client terminal managed by the client power state management means is configured to be limited to a specific privileged client.

  In this embodiment, in the power supply state management apparatus of the information processing system that manages the power supply state of the information processing system in which a plurality of client terminals and the information processing apparatus are connected to each other via a network, the information processing apparatus includes: Client power state management means for managing the power state of a client terminal connected via the network, a management table generated by the power state management means, and the power state of the information processing apparatus are shifted to a power saving state. Power policy means for managing discipline information, power policy setting means for setting discipline information of the power policy means, and power status control means for controlling the power status of the information processing apparatus based on information in the management table means The client terminal includes the client terminal itself. Power state management means for managing the source state, power policy means for managing the discipline information for transitioning the power state of the client terminal to the power saving state, power policy setting means for setting the discipline information of the power policy means, Based on the information of the power policy setting means, the power supply status control means for controlling the power status of the client terminal is provided, and the power status control means of the information processing apparatus is managed by the client power status management means. The power supply state of the information processing apparatus is controlled based on the power supply state.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the printer.

  In FIG. 1, reference numeral 21 denotes a printer power supply state control means. This printer power supply state control means 21 is a means for controlling the power supply state of the printer 2 itself to a normal operating state or a power saving state. Here, the power state of the printer 2 can be broadly divided into an “operating state” and a “sleep state”. The “operating state” is a state in which all of the MF module 7 serving as the printing mechanism, the controller control circuit, and the like are energized and all of them are operating normally. The “sleep state” is a state in which the MF module 7 serving as a printing mechanism is turned off (energization is cut off) and only a part of the controller control circuit is operated to save power.

  Reference numeral 22 denotes client power state management means. The client power state management means 22 is means for managing the power states of all client terminals 3 connected on the network 4. The client power supply state management unit 22 grasps the power supply state of all the client terminals 3 connected on the network 4 by communicating with the client terminal 3 via the communication unit 27 and the network 4 described later. Are configured to manage. As will be described later, there are five types of power states of the client terminal 3: “operating state”, “sleep state”, “suspend state”, “hibernation state”, and “off state”. Reference numeral 23 denotes a management table. The management table 23 includes a table storing table data for managing the power states of all client terminals 3. Further, reference numeral 24 denotes a start trigger setting unit. This start trigger setting unit 24 is configured to select any event (for example, “receive a print instruction” or “receive a notification that a client terminal is in operation”). This is a means for setting whether or not the printer 2 itself is to be returned from the power saving state to the operating state in the case of occurrence of the problem. Reference numeral 25 denotes print data control means, and this print data control means 25 is means for controlling the path of the print data. Reference numeral 26 denotes printing means composed of the MF module 7, and the printing means 26 is means for printing an image by an electrophotographic method or the like. Reference numeral 27 denotes a communication unit. The communication unit 27 is an interface that communicates with the client terminal 3 via the network 4 and includes a LAN card or the like.

  As shown in FIG. 3, an operation panel 8 may be provided on the upper portion of the printer main body 5. The operation panel 8 is a panel for performing basic operations such as a print instruction. .

  In addition, when the printer 2 and the client terminal 3 are connected to an external network such as the Internet as well as the internal network 4 such as in-house or on the premises, as necessary for countermeasures against viruses, hackers, etc. Thus, it is desirable that software serving as a vaccine is installed in the printer 2 in advance, or a firewall function or the like is added to the communication means 27 of the printer 2.

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 4, the client terminal 3 is composed of, for example, a personal computer (PC), and includes a terminal body 30, a display device 32 such as a CRT (cathode ray tube) or a liquid crystal panel, And an input instruction device 34 such as a keyboard and a mouse. In addition to basic software (operating system: OS), application software necessary for performing various information processing is installed in the terminal body 30. Among the application software, software such as a printer driver for accessing the printer 2 via the network interface unit and requesting the printer 2 to perform print processing, or the scanner device 6 of the printer 2 reads the software. Also included is software for inputting the image data, software for performing desired image processing on the image data read by the scanner device 6 of the printer 2, and outputting the image data to another information processing device.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of the client terminal.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 41 denotes a device constituting a client terminal such as a CPU, a bus bridge, or an I / O controller. Reference numeral 42 denotes a power supply state control unit of the client terminal. The power supply state control unit 42 controls the power supply state of the client terminal 3 and changes the client terminal 3 itself from the normal operation state to the power saving state. . Reference numeral 43 denotes power supply state management means. The power supply state management means 43 is based on the input / output data from the input / output control means 44 and the state stored in the power supply policy 45, and the power supply state of the client terminal 3 itself. It is a means to manage. Reference numeral 45 denotes a power supply policy. The power supply policy 45 defines what power supply state the client terminal 3 itself is to be transitioned to when any data input or switch operation is performed. Reference numeral 46 denotes a power policy setting means. The power policy setting means 46 is a means for setting and editing the power policy 46. Reference numeral 47 denotes a power supply state notification unit. The power supply state notification unit 47 notifies the printer 2 of the power supply state of the client terminal 3 such as a transition to the power supply state determined by the power supply state management unit 43. . Reference numeral 48 denotes communication means. The communication means 48 is an interface for communicating with the printer 2 via the network 4 and is configured by a LAN card or the like.

  Here, the power state of the client terminal 3 is defined as follows. In a desktop type or notebook type personal computer used as the client terminal 3, a common standard "ACCl" (Advanced Configuration and Power InterFace) for controlling power consumption in an operating system (OS) is generally established. . In a model equipped with such a power consumption control mechanism, the power state management means 43 can generally set the following states.

(1) Operating State This “operating state” is a state in which the client terminal 3 is operating normally.
(2) Sleep state This “sleep state” is intended to save power by reducing the number of clocks of the CPU of the device 41 compared to the normal operating state or by turning off the power of a display device such as a display. It can be restored to the operating state immediately.
(3) Suspended state This “suspended state” is a state in which only the memory state of the device 41 is energized and maintained, and other devices 41 are turned off to save power. The return takes a little more time than the “sleep state”, but the power consumption is less than that of the “sleep state”.
(4) Hibernation state This “hibernation state” is a state in which the memory state is saved in the non-volatile device 41 such as a hard disk, and almost all devices 41 including the memory are turned off. Is very time consuming.
(5) Off state This “off state” is a state in which the power of the client terminal 3 is completely turned off.

  In this embodiment, not only the operating state of (1) above, but also the sleep state of (2) that can be immediately returned to the operating state, the “operating state” (the user normally uses the client terminal 3). And (3) and (4) are defined as “sleep states” (states in which the user is not using the client terminal 3).

  In this embodiment, the user who uses the client terminal 3 is defined as follows. That is, there are various users among the users who use the client terminal 3, and it is of course possible to treat all users equally, but in this embodiment, depending on the power state of the client terminal 3 used by the user, Since the power status of the printer 2 is controlled, especially when there are a large number of client terminals 3 and all users are treated equally, the power status of the printer 2 becomes almost normal. There is a possibility that power saving cannot be achieved.

  Therefore, in this embodiment, the user who uses the client terminal 3 is generally configured to define a privileged client in a specific privileged position other than the user.

A. "client"
The “client” means a general user who operates the client terminal 3.
B. "Privileged Client"
The “privileged client” means a specific user who has power over control of power consumption control of the image processing apparatus among general users who operate the client terminal 3. When the management target of power management is limited to this “privileged client”, and all “privileged clients” are in the power saving state, the printer 2 is immediately in the power saving state regardless of the state of the general user. Configured to transition to. The “privileged client” may be determined in any way.
Also, “privileged clients” are given preferential treatment that can occupy the printer 2, and when any one of the privileged clients is operating, the timer off for counting the unused time of the printer 2 is off. Is not forcibly attempted, and asks the privileged client whether or not the power state of the printer 2 can be changed.
Further, the “privileged client” can reduce the print waiting time, and when the printer 2 is in the power saving state and the privileged client is operated by one person, the printer 2 determines whether there is a print instruction. Regardless of whether or not it is now in operation.

C. Temporary privileged client "
This “temporarily privileged client” means a user who can temporarily enforce the same level of power as the “privileged client”. The “temporary privileged client” is a normal client, but is effective when the printer 2 is to be used preferentially in a hurry or the like.

In addition, when there is a privileged client, a start trigger for shifting from the power saving state of the printer 2 to the operating state is defined as follows.
(1) Start print instruction (default setting)
When a print instruction is output from any one of the client terminals 3 connected to the network 4 to the printer 2, the printer 2 shifts to an operating state.
(2) Power link activation When any one of the privileged clients changes from the power saving state to the operating state, the printer 2 is notified to that effect, and the printer 2 immediately changes from the power saving state to the operating state. To do.

  In the above configuration, the power state management device for the information processing device according to this embodiment has the following configuration for the information processing device on the host side to which the client is connected via the network, depending on the power state of the client. By controlling the power supply state, it is possible to reduce the total power consumption including the host side.

  That is, in the information processing system 1 to which the power state management device of the information processing device according to this embodiment is applied, first, the client terminal 3 is connected by the power state management means 43 of the client terminal 3 as shown in FIG. It is determined whether or not it is in an operating state (step 101). When the power supply state management unit 43 of the client terminal 3 determines that the client terminal 3 is in an operating state, the input / output control unit 44 causes each device 41 of the client terminal 3 to have a function as shown in FIG. The operating state is investigated (step 102).

  Furthermore, the client terminal 3 may transition the client terminal 3 to the power saving state after collating the power policy 45 by the power state management means 43 based on the operating state of each device 41 (step 103). It is determined whether or not it is possible (step 104). If it is determined that it is not possible to transition to the power saving state, the process returns to step 102 and the operating state of each device 41 of the client terminal 3 is examined again.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the state can be changed to the power saving state, the power supply state management unit 43 instructs the power supply state control unit 42 to start the process of changing the client terminal 3 to the power saving state. (Step 105). At the same time, the power supply state control means 42 notifies the power supply state notification means 47 that the power supply state of the client terminal 3 is changed to the power saving state (step 106), and then the communication means 48 notifies the printer 2 through the network 4. Notification of transition to the power saving state is sent (step 107). Further, the power state control means 42 causes the client terminal 3 itself to transition to the power saving state (step 108) and returns to step 101.

  When the power state management means 43 of the client terminal 3 determines that the client terminal 3 is not in an operating state, that is, a power saving state, the input / output control means 44 determines the client terminal 3 itself. The operating state of each device 41 is checked (step 109), and it is checked what power saving state the client terminal 3 is in.

  Thereafter, in the client terminal 3, the power supply state management unit 43 collates the power supply policy 45, collates what kind of event occurs and makes a transition to the power supply state (step 110), and then operates. It is determined whether or not to return to the state (step 111). If it is determined that it is not necessary to return to the operating state, the process returns to step 109.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that it is necessary to return to the operating state, the power supply state control means 42 performs processing for returning the client terminal 3 to the operating state (step 112). Thereafter, the client terminal 3 determines whether or not it is a privileged client (step 113), and returns to step 109 if it is not a privileged client.

  If the client terminal 3 determines that it is a privileged client, the power supply state control means 42 notifies the power supply state notification means 47 that the power supply state notification means 47 has returned to the operating state (step 114). Then, the communication means 48 notifies the printer 2 that it has returned to the operating state via the network 4 (step 115), and returns to step 101.

Here, the communication means 48 notifies the printer 2 that the printer 2 has returned to the operating state through the network 4 because the printer 2 also shifts to the operating state when the privileged client is in the operating state. This is because it is necessary when “” is set.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the printer. FIG. 7 shows an environment where only general users exist on the network.

  As shown in FIG. 7, the printer 2 refers to the management table 23 by the client power state management means 22, and as shown in FIG. 8, each client terminal 3 connected to the printer 2 via the network 4. Is checked (step 201). Then, the client power state management means 22 determines whether or not all the client terminals 3 are in the power saving state (step 202), and as shown in (4) of FIG. If it is in the state, the power supply state management means 22 issues a command for transition to the power saving mode to the printer power supply state control means 21 to cause the printer 2 to transition to the power saving mode (step 203).

The client power status management means 22 refers to the management table 23 and grasps the power status of each client terminal 3 connected to the printer 2 via the network 4. In the example shown in FIG. 8, since the client terminal B is in the power saving state, the fact has been notified to the printer 2 before this time, and the client terminal B passes through the client power state management means 22 in the printer 2. The state is registered in the management table 23.

  Further, since the client C shifts to the power saving state at the timing of (2), the printer 2 is notified to that effect, and the printer 2 registers the information in the management table 23 through the client power state management means 22. ing.

  Further, there is a print instruction from the client A, and the printer 2 performs a print operation. Further, after the printer 2 executes the printing operation, the client A has transitioned to the power saving state. Therefore, the client A notifies the printer 2 to that effect, and the printer 2 registers the status in the management table 23 through the client power status management means 22. At this time, the printer 2 grasps from the information in the management table 23 that all the client terminals have transitioned to the power saving state, and transitions itself to the power saving state.

  In (5), the client A changes to the operating state, notifies the printer 2 to that effect, and updates the management table 23. At the timing of (6), since there is a print instruction from the client A, the printer 2 shifts to the operating state and performs the printer operation.

  Next, the printer 2 determines whether or not there is a print instruction from the client terminal 3 (step 204), and waits until there is a print instruction from the client terminal 3. Then, as shown in (6) of the client A in FIG. 8, when there is a print instruction from the client terminal 3, the printer power supply state control means 21 makes a normal operation mode to the printer control means (not shown). Is issued to make a transition to the normal operating state (step 205), and then the process returns to step 201.

  On the other hand, in step 202, as shown in FIG. 8, when all the client terminals 3 are not in the power saving state, that is, when there is at least one client terminal 3, the threshold of the power saving state transition timer is reached. Is less than or equal to the counter value of the no-input time counter (step 206). If the threshold value of the power saving state transition timer is greater than the counter value of the no-input time counter, the process returns to step 201.

  If the threshold value of the power saving state transition timer is equal to or less than the counter value of the no-input time counter, the process proceeds to step 203, where the power supply state management means 22 causes the printer power supply state control means 21 to Is issued to shift the printer 2 to the power saving mode (step 203).

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the printer. FIG. 9 shows an environment where general users and privileged users coexist on the network. In FIG. 9, it is not set to inquire with the privileged user when the state of the printer 2 changes.

  In this case, as shown in FIG. 9, the printer 2 first refers to the management table 23 by the client power state management means 22, and the state of each client terminal 3 connected to the printer 2 via the network 4. Is confirmed (step 301). The client power state management means 22 determines whether or not the client terminal 3 of the privileged client is operating (step 302), and the client terminal 3 of the privileged client is not operating, that is, is in a power saving state. In this case, the return mode is set (step 303).

  Next, the printer 2 determines whether the power link activation is active (step 304). If the power link activation is active, the printer 2 sets the power link activation (step 305). If the power link activation is not active, the print instruction activation is set (step 306). In this print instruction activation, when a print instruction is received, the state is shifted to an operation state.

In the printer 2, the power supply state control means 21 issues a command for transition to the power saving mode to the printer control means, makes a transition to the power saving mode, and ends the operation (step 307). ).

  On the other hand, if the privileged user's client terminal 3 is operating in step 302, it is determined whether or not the threshold of the power saving state transition timer is equal to or less than the counter value of the no-input time counter (step 308). When the threshold value of the power saving state transition timer is larger than the counter value of the no-input time counter, the process returns to step 301.

  In addition, when the threshold value of the power saving state transition timer is equal to or less than the counter value of the non-input time counter, the counter value of the non-input time counter is reset (the counter value is reset to extend the operation time) ( Step 309), returning to Step 301.

  FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing a case where the printer 2 is operated based on the flowchart.

  In the example shown in FIG. 10, since the privileged client D shifts to the power saving state at the timing (1), the fact is notified to the printer 2 using the communication data as shown in FIG. 12, the information is registered in the management table 23 through the client power state management unit 22. Further, since the client B is a privileged user, the activation method of the printer 2 can be set. However, it is assumed that the print instruction activation, which is the default activation method, is not set here.

  Further, at timing (2), the privileged client B transitions to the power saving state, so that the printer 2 notifies the printer 2 to that effect, and the printer 2 registers the information in the management table 23 through the client power state management means 22. . Since client B is a privileged user, the activation method of the printer 2 can be set, but it is assumed here that the print instruction activation, which is the default activation method, is not set here. At this time (2), since all privileged users have transitioned to the power saving state, the printer 2 causes the printer 2 itself to transition to the power saving state.

  Further, since there is a print instruction from the client A at timing (3), the printer 2 shifts to an operating state and performs a print operation. At timing (4), there is a print instruction from the privileged client B, and the printer 2 performs the print operation.

  At timing (5), the printer 2 continues to operate after the print instruction at timing (4). There is no print instruction from the client, and the operation waiting for input is maintained until a predetermined time preset in the printer 2. At timing (6), the printer 2 inquires B and D, which are privileged clients, that the printer 2 will transition to the power saving state because the operation state waiting for input has passed a certain time.

  Further, at the timing (7), the privileged client B rejects the transition to the power saving state, and therefore resets the no-input time counter and continues the operation state.

  At the timing (8), the privileged client D shifts to the power saving state, so that the printer 2 is notified of this, and the printer 2 registers the information in the management table 23 through the client power state management means 22. Since the client B is a privileged user, it is possible to set the startup method of the printer 2. Here, it is assumed that power link activation is set.

  Also, at timing (9), since the operation state waiting for input has passed a certain time again, the printer 2 inquires the privileged client B that is in the operation state to shift itself to the power saving state.

  At the timing (10), since the privileged client B has accepted the transition to the power saving state, the printer 2 shifts itself to the power saving state. Further, at the timing (11), the privileged client D transits to the operating state and notifies the printer 2 to that effect. Since the activation setting of the printer 2 is the power link activation, the printer 2 immediately transitions to the operating state at this point.

  FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the printer. FIG. 13 shows an environment in which general users and privileged users coexist on the network as in FIG. In FIG. 13, unlike FIG. 9, a case is shown in which an inquiry is made to the privileged user when the status of the printer 2 changes.

  The operation of the printer 2 in this case is basically the same as the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 as shown in FIG. 13, but in step 308, the threshold of the power saving state transition timer is equal to or less than the counter value of the no-input time counter In contrast, unlike FIG. 9, the privileged client terminal 3 of the privileged user is inquired whether the printer 2 may transition to the power saving state (step 310), and whether or not the privileged user has agreed. Is discriminated (step 311).

If the privileged user agrees, the process proceeds to step 303 to set the return mode. If the privileged user does not agree, that is, if it is determined that the printer 2 is in need of transition to the power saving state, the counter value of the no-input time counter is reset (the counter value is reset as in FIG. 9). Then, the operation time is extended) (step 309), and the process returns to step 301.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the printer.

FIG. 14 shows an environment in which three users, a general user, a privileged user, and a temporary privileged user, coexist on the network 4. FIG. 14 shows a case where setting is made so as not to make an inquiry to a privileged user when the state of the printer 2 changes.

  As shown in FIG. 14, the operation of the printer 2 is basically the same as the flowchart shown in FIG. 9, but after determining whether or not the privileged user terminal 3 of the privileged user is operating in step 302, If the privileged user's privileged client terminal 3 is not in operation, it is further determined whether or not the temporary privileged user's client terminal 3 is in operation (step 312).

  If the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation, the temporary privileged user's temporary privilege is invalidated in the management table 23 connected to the client power state management means 22 (step 313), and the step A process of setting the return mode 303 is executed.

  Here, when the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation, the temporary privileged user is disabled in the management table 23 connected to the client power state management means 22. This is because it is determined that there is no need for temporary privilege when the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation even though the privilege is temporarily granted to the user.

  Here, the process of setting the return mode in step 303 may be executed without invalidating the temporary privilege of the temporary privileged user.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation flow of the printer.

  FIG. 15 shows an environment in which a general user, a privileged user, and a temporary privileged user coexist on the network 4. In FIG. 15, unlike FIG. 14, a case is shown in which an inquiry is made to the privileged user when the status of the printer 2 changes.

  The operation of the printer 2 is basically the same as the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 as shown in FIG. 15, but after determining whether or not the privileged user terminal 3 of the privileged user is operating in step 302, If the privileged user's privileged client terminal 3 is not in operation, it is further determined whether or not the temporary privileged user's client terminal 3 is in operation (step 312).

  If the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation, the temporary privileged user's temporary privilege is invalidated in the management table 23 connected to the client power state management means 22 (step 313), and the step A process of setting the return mode 303 is executed.

  Here, when the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation, the temporary privileged user's temporary privilege is invalidated in the management table 23 connected to the client power state management means 22 as shown in FIG. Similarly, in the case where the temporary privileged user is temporarily granted the privilege but the client terminal 3 of the temporary privileged user is not in operation, it is determined that there is no need for the temporary privilege. .

  Here, the process of setting the return mode in step 303 may be executed without invalidating the temporary privilege of the temporary privileged user.

  As described above, in the power supply state management device for the information processing apparatus according to the above embodiment, the client terminal 3 is connected via the network 4 depending on the power supply state of the client terminal 3 as shown in FIGS. By controlling the power supply state of the printer 2 by the printer power supply state control means 21, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the entire information processing system 1 including the printer 2.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a control circuit of a printer to which an information processing apparatus and a power state management apparatus for an information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an information processing system to which the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus for the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a paper transport system of the image output apparatus according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 3 is an external configuration diagram of a printer to which the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus for the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied. FIG. 4 is an external configuration diagram of a personal computer to which the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus for the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of a personal computer to which the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus for the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention are applied. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the operation of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a timing chart showing operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a timing chart showing operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of communication data. FIG. 12 is a chart showing the management table. FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the operations of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the operation of the information processing apparatus and the power state management apparatus of the information processing system according to Embodiment 1 of the present invention. FIG. 16 is a timing chart showing the operation of the conventional information processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

  1: Information processing system, 2: Printer, 3: Client terminal, 21: Printer power supply state control means, 22: Client power supply state management means.

Claims (10)

In a power supply state management device for an information processing device that manages a power supply state of an information processing device connected to a plurality of client terminals via a network,
The information processing apparatus
Based on the information of the client power state management means for managing the power state of the client terminal connected via the network, the management table generated by the power state management means, and the information of the management table means, Power supply state control means for controlling the state,
The power supply state management device for an information processing apparatus, wherein the power supply state control means controls the power supply state of the information processing apparatus based on the power supply state of the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means. The power state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein when all clients connected via the network transition to a power saving state, the information processing apparatus also transitions to a power saving state. 3. The power state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a client terminal managed by the client power state management unit is limited to a specific privileged client. When there is an active privileged client when the information processing apparatus transitions to the power saving state, the privileged client is inquired in advance about whether or not the information processing apparatus can transition to the power saving state. The power supply state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus according to claim 3. 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein when the information processing apparatus transitions to a power saving state, if there is an active privileged client, the information processing apparatus is prohibited from transitioning to the power saving state. The power supply state management apparatus of the information processing apparatus described. 4. The power state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the privileged client can determine a condition for the information processing apparatus to transition to a power saving state. The condition for the information processing apparatus determined by the privileged client to transition to the power saving state is that the information processing apparatus receives “print instruction” or “receives notification that the client terminal is in an operating state”. The power supply state management device for an information processing device according to claim 6. 8. The power state management apparatus for an information processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein a general client terminal can temporarily become a privileged client. When the temporary privileged client is not in operation when an inquiry is made as to whether or not the temporary privileged client is in operation, the setting as the temporary privileged client is invalidated. The power state management device for an information processing device according to claim 7. In an information processing system power state management device that manages a power state of an information processing system in which a plurality of client terminals and information processing devices are connected to each other via a network,
The information processing apparatus
Client power state management means for managing the power state of client terminals connected via the network;
A management table generated by the power supply state management means;
Based on the information of the power policy means for managing the discipline information for transitioning the power state of the information processing apparatus to the power saving state, the power policy setting means for setting the discipline information of the power policy means, and the information of the management table means With power supply state control means for controlling the power supply state of the processing apparatus,
The client terminal
Power state management means for managing the power state of the client terminal itself;
Based on the information of the power policy means for managing the discipline information for changing the power state of the client terminal to the power saving state, the power policy setting means for setting the discipline information of the power policy means, and the information of the power policy setting means, the client Power supply state control means for controlling the power supply state of the terminal,
The power supply state control means of the information processing apparatus controls the power supply state of the information processing apparatus based on the power supply state of the client terminal managed by the client power supply state management means. State management device.

Images