JP2015166163A - Image processing apparatus, image processing apparatus control method, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing apparatus which permits reduction of erroneous detection of a human sensor and restoration to a normal power mode by means of a human sensor upon the solution of an erroneous detection state of the human sensor.SOLUTION: A CPU 301 of an image processing apparatus 10 makes the restoration based on a detection result of a human sensor 601 invalid when a first time elapses in such a state that the human sensor 601 is detected and any operation is not performed, and is transferred to a power-saving mode. A judgement part 602 makes the restoration to a normal power mode based on the detection result of the human sensor 601 valid when the human sensor 601 is turned to a non-detection state while the restoration based on the detection result of the human sensor 601 gets to invalid.

Description

  The present invention relates to power saving control of an image processing apparatus.

  In recent years, awareness of environmental issues has increased, and a power saving mode (power saving state) in which a plurality of power modes are provided in an image processing apparatus and the power in the apparatus is turned off according to the power mode is supported. When the apparatus is not used, a power saving function for shifting to the power saving mode and reducing the power consumption of the apparatus is provided.

In this type of image processing apparatus, for example, power saving is achieved by operations such as receiving a print job, a user coming in front of the apparatus and pressing a power saving button of the apparatus, or setting an original in an ADF (Auto Document Feeder). Return from mode.
However, since the user who stands in front of the apparatus does not start the sleep return state unless the user presses the power saving button or sets an original on the ADF, the user who is not familiar with the apparatus can use the apparatus in the power saving mode. Standing in front of you, you may be wasting time without being able to recognize the situation. Further, since the transition from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is a transition from a state in which the power of the image forming unit is cut off, for example, there is a problem that the transition takes time.

In order to solve this problem, a human detection sensor is installed in the power mode control to predict whether or not a person is approaching and to speed up the return from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. There has been a proposal to improve time (see Patent Document 1).
In addition, if there is no input to the operation unit even when the human sensor is detecting, it is determined that the human sensor is erroneously detected, the sensitivity of the human sensor is adjusted, and the adjustment is repeated. However, when the detection continues, there are some that invalidate the return by the human sensor (see Patent Document 2).
In addition, in order to operate the human sensor in the power saving mode, there has also been proposed control in which power supply for operating the human sensor is performed in a time-sharing manner for power saving (see Patent Document 3).

JP 2012-58645 A Japanese Patent Application No. 2010-147725 JP 2002-71833 A

  However, in the above conventional technology, even if it is determined that the human detection sensor is erroneously detected and the return from the human detection sensor is invalidated, even if the erroneous detection state of the human detection sensor is canceled and the normal state is restored. The return from the motion sensor could not be validated.

  However, there may be a situation where the human sensor cannot operate normally due to a decrease in detection sensitivity of the human sensor due to the installation environment of the image processing apparatus. It has been known that there are many cases where the human body cannot be detected when the temperature difference between the ambient temperature of the image processing device and the human body becomes small due to an increase in the environmental temperature due to power saving of air conditioning in summer. Even if it enters, it may not return from the power saving mode. In such a situation, the user can only return from the power saving mode by setting a document on the ADF or pressing the power saving button, and the convenience provided with the human sensor is impaired. In addition, when the human sensor of Patent Document 3 is operated in a time-sharing manner in the power saving mode, when the detection sensitivity of the human sensor has deteriorated due to an increase in the ambient temperature or the like, Continuing to drive the sensation sensor consumes power wastefully.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems. An object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that enables reduction of false detection of a human sensor, quick transition to a power saving state, and return of the human sensor to a normal power state when the false detection state of the human sensor is resolved. It is to be. Another object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism for suppressing unnecessary power consumption by a human sensor in an abnormal state and effectively returning from a power saving state by another return factor detection unit.

The present invention is an image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state, and when the predetermined transition condition is satisfied, the image processing apparatus The power state of the image processing apparatus based on the detection result of the detecting means, the detecting means for detecting the object, and the transition means for shifting the power state of the image processing device from the first power state to the second power state. A return means for returning from the second power state to the first power state; and when the first time has elapsed in the first power state when the detection means is in the detection state and there is no operation, the detection means Invalidation means for invalidating the return based on the detection result of the detection means, and when the detection means becomes a non-detection state in a state where the return based on the detection result of the detection means is invalidated, Based on detection results Ku and enabling means to enable the return was characterized by having a.
Further, the present invention is an image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state, and a first detection unit that detects an object, A plurality of return factor detection means including one or more other detection means for detecting a return factor from the second power state to the first power state, and based on a detection result of the return factor detection means; A return means for returning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the second power state to the first power state; and in the second power state, when the first detection means is not in a reduced sensitivity state, the plurality of The return factor detection means is driven at a first time-division ratio, and when the first detection means is in a reduced sensitivity state, the plurality of return factor detection means is driven by the first time division setting. Decreasing the drive ratio of the first detection means One and having a control unit for performing a splitting rate at the second time with an increased drive rate of the other sensing means.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to reduce erroneous detection of the detection means, promptly shift to the power saving state, and return to the first power state by the detection means when the erroneous detection state is resolved. Further, unnecessary power consumption by the first detection means in the abnormal state can be suppressed, and the return to the first power state by the other return factor detection means can be effectively performed.

The figure which illustrates the image processing apparatus which concerns on one Example of this invention. The figure which illustrates the detection range of a human sensor. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus. 2 is a diagram illustrating a power supply circuit configuration of an image processing apparatus. FIG. The figure explaining the electric power state of an image processing apparatus. The figure which shows an example of the reaction state of a human sensitive sensor. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the first exemplary embodiment. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. The figure explaining the power supply control method of time division setting, such as a human sensor power supply. The figure which shows a 1st power supply part, a human sensitive sensor, a switch, the control signal G, etc. The figure which illustrates the timing of the signal and power supply which are time-division driven. The figure which illustrates each timing which supplies each power supply to each return factor detection part intermittently, and operates each return factor detection part by the time division in the period T. The flowchart explaining the transition between the conventional power saving mode and normal power mode. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating time division setting 4 in the fifth embodiment. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating time division setting 4 in the sixth embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an image processing apparatus as an information processing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1A is a diagram of the image processing device viewed from the front, and FIG. 1B is a diagram of the image processing device viewed from the top.
In FIG. 1, reference numeral 10 denotes an image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus 10 includes an operation unit 12, a scanner unit 13, a printer unit 14, an in-body finisher 15, a paper feed cassette 16, and the like, and has functions such as copying, printing, and scanning. In addition, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a human sensor 601 that detects a person approaching the image processing apparatus 10.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a detection range of the human sensor 601.
In FIG. 2, reference numeral 108 denotes a detection range of the human sensor 601. The human sensor 601 detects an object within the detection range 108.
In this embodiment, the human sensor 601 will be described using an infrared array sensor, for example. An infrared array sensor is a sensor that detects the heat of an object at a remote location, and can detect the position of the object over a wide range. The human sensor 601 is used as a detection unit for shifting from the power saving mode to the normal power mode. The human sensor 601 detects that a person is approaching, and can detect not only whether or not a person is in the area but also the details of the movement of the person.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.
As shown in FIG. 3, the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment includes a controller 11, a scanner unit 13, a printer unit 14, an operation unit 12, a power supply unit 40 shown in FIG.
The image processing apparatus 10 according to the present exemplary embodiment has at least two power modes, a normal power mode (normal power state) in which a copy operation or the like is performed, and a power saving mode (power saving) that consumes less power than the normal power mode. State). When the image processing apparatus 10 is not used even after a predetermined time has elapsed, the power mode of the apparatus is shifted to the power saving mode under the control of the controller 11. In the power saving mode, power supply to the scanner unit 13 and the printer unit 14 is stopped, and power supply to a part inside the controller 11 and an unnecessary part inside the operation unit 12 is stopped. Details will be described later.

<Description of Controller 11>
Hereinafter, details of the controller 11 that controls the overall operation of the image processing apparatus 10 will be described.
As shown in FIG. 3, the controller 11 is electrically connected to the above-described scanner unit 13, printer unit 14, operation unit 12, and the like.

The controller 11 includes a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, an operation unit I / F 305, a LAN controller 306, a human body detection sensor unit 310, and a power supply control unit 401. The CPU 301, RAM 302, ROM 303, operation unit I / F 305, LAN controller 306, human body detection sensor unit 310 and power supply control unit 401 are connected to the system bus 307.
The controller 11 includes an HDD 304, an image processing unit 309, a scanner I / F 311, and a printer I / F 313. The HDD 304, the image processing unit 309, the scanner I / F 311, and the printer I / F 313 are connected to the image bus 308.

  The CPU 301 comprehensively controls access to various connected devices based on a control program or the like stored in the ROM 303 and also comprehensively controls various processes executed by the controller 11. A RAM 302 is a system work memory for the CPU 301 to operate. The RAM 302 is also a memory for temporarily storing image data. The RAM 302 includes an SRAM capable of holding the stored content even when the power is off, and a DRAM from which the stored content is erased when the power is off. The ROM 303 stores a boot program for the apparatus. The HDD 304 is a hard disk drive and stores system software and image data.

The operation unit I / F 305 is an interface unit for connecting the system bus 307 and the operation unit 12. The operation unit I / F 305 receives image data to be displayed on the operation unit 12 from the system bus 307 and outputs the image data to the operation unit 12 and outputs information input from the operation unit 12 to the system bus 307.
The LAN controller 306 controls input / output of information between the image processing apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 connected to the network 60.

The power control unit 401 controls power supply to each unit of the image processing apparatus 10. The image bus 308 is a transmission path for exchanging image data, and is configured by a PCI bus, an IEEE 1394 bus, or the like.
The image processing unit 309 performs image processing, reads image data stored in the RAM 302, and performs image processing such as JPEG and JBIG enlargement or reduction, and color adjustment.

<Description of Human Body Detection Sensor Unit 310>
The human body detection sensor unit 310 includes a human sensor 601 and a determination unit 602. Power to the human body detection sensor unit 310 is supplied from a first power supply unit 410 (FIG. 4) described later.
The human sensor 601 is a sensor that detects that a person is approaching. The human sensor 601 includes a temperature sensor 603 and can measure the ambient temperature. Specifically, the human sensor 601 is an infrared sensor array in which infrared sensors that receive infrared rays are arranged in a matrix. The infrared array sensor as the human sensor 601 receives infrared rays radiated from a heat source such as a human body by individual infrared light receiving elements (infrared sensors) arranged in a grid (for example, as shown in FIG. 6). .

  The shape of the heat source (detection region) can be specified as the temperature distribution by using the temperature value measured by the temperature sensor 603 based on the infrared light (light reception result) received by each infrared light receiving element. Using the characteristics of the human sensor 601, the image processing apparatus 10 detects the temperature distribution of the heat source approaching the image processing apparatus 10. Then, the determination unit 602 determines whether the heat source is a user of the image processing apparatus 10 from the shape and temperature of the heat source detected by the human sensor 601. Note that the determination unit 602 has a register 604 therein, and holds a value for determining whether the return from the human sensor 601 is valid or invalid.

  Here, an example in which the human sensor 601 detects a person will be described. However, if the object radiates infrared rays, the human sensor 601 can detect it. The human sensor 601 is not limited to the infrared sensor described above. If it is a sensor that can detect that an object has approached the image processing apparatus 10, it is a device other than an infrared sensor (an optical sensor that detects light, a strain sensor that deforms by physical force, a magnetic sensor that detects magnetism, etc.) Also good.

  The determination unit 602 processes the detection result of the human sensor 601 to determine the presence of the user, and outputs an energization request signal (control signal Q in FIG. 4) to the power supply control unit 401 based on the determination result. Upon receiving the energization request signal Q, the power control unit 401 returns the power mode of the image processing apparatus 10 to the normal power mode.

  The operation unit 12 includes hard keys including a power saving key 121 and receives instructions input from the user. The power saving key 121 is used to shift the power mode of the image processing apparatus 10 from the normal power mode to the power saving mode, and to return from the power saving mode to the normal power mode.

  The scanner unit 13 is a device that reads an image formed on a document and acquires image data. By inputting the reflected light of the light applied to the image formed on the original to the CCD, the information of the image is converted into an electrical signal. This electrical signal is converted into a luminance signal composed of R, G, and B colors and output to the controller 11. The scanner unit 13 includes a scanner control unit 331 and a scanner driving unit 332. The scanner drive unit 332 is a device that is physically driven, including a paper transport motor for transporting a document set on a document tray (not shown) to a reading position of the scanner unit 13. The scanner control unit 331 controls the operation of the scanner driving unit 332. The scanner control unit 331 receives setting information set by the user when performing the scanner processing through communication with the CPU 301, and controls the operation of the scanner driving unit 332 based on the setting information. The scanner unit 13 includes a document detection sensor 333 (FIG. 4), and can detect that a document is set on a document tray.

  The printer unit 14 is a device that forms an image on a sheet using input image data. The printer unit 14 includes a printer control unit 341 and a printer driving unit 342. The printer driving unit 342 is a device that is physically driven, including a motor that rotates the photosensitive drum, a motor that rotates the fixing device, and a paper conveyance motor. The printer control unit 341 controls the operation of the printer driving unit 342. The printer control unit 341 receives setting information set by the user when performing print processing through communication with the CPU 301, and controls the operation of the printer driving unit 342 based on the setting information. The image forming method of the printer unit 14 is not limited to the electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt. For example, the printer unit 14 may be an ink jet method that discharges ink from a minute nozzle array and prints on paper, or another printing method.

<Description of power supply circuit configuration of image processing apparatus>
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of a power supply circuit configuration of the image processing apparatus 10. The power generated by the power supply unit 40 is supplied to each unit of the image processing apparatus 10 described above. The power supply unit 40 includes a first power supply unit 410, a second power supply unit 411, and a third power supply unit 412. AC power is supplied to the power supply unit 40 from a public power supply via the power plug 402.

  The first power supply unit 410 converts AC power supplied via the power plug 402 into DC power (for example, 5.1 V (first output power)). Then, the DC power is supplied to the device of the first power supply system. The devices of the first power supply system include, for example, a power control unit 401, a CPU 301, a RAM 302, a ROM 303, an HDD 304, a LAN controller 306, a human sensor 601, a determination unit 602, a power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12, a document detection sensor 333, and the like. It is. In this embodiment, the CPU 301 operates with power supplied only from the first power supply unit 410 without receiving power supply from the second power supply unit 411 or the third power supply unit 412. That is, the power supply of the CPU 301 is independent of the second power supply unit 411 and the third power supply unit 412.

  The second power supply unit 411 converts AC power supplied through the power plug 402 into DC power (for example, 12V (second output power)). This DC power is supplied to the devices of the second power supply system (the display unit 122 of the operation unit 12, the image processing unit 309, the printer control unit 341 of the printer unit 14, and the scanner control unit 331 of the scanner unit 13).

  The third power supply unit 412 converts AC power supplied via the power plug 402 into DC power (for example, 24V), and the third power system device (printer drive unit 342 and scanner drive unit). 332).

  In addition, a power switch 416 that is turned on or off by a user operation is provided between the first power supply unit 410 and the first power system device. A control signal D indicating the state of the power switch 416 (ON state or OFF state) is input from the power switch 416 to the power control unit 401. In addition, a switch 417 made of an FET (field effect transistor) arranged in parallel with the power switch 416 is provided between the first power supply unit 410 and the device of the first power supply system. The switch 417 is switched from an ON state to an OFF state or from an OFF state to an ON state by a control signal E output from the power supply control unit 401. The power switch 416 is provided with a solenoid 416a. In accordance with a control signal C output from the power control unit 401, a voltage is applied to the solenoid and the power switch 416 is turned off.

  When the auto shutdown function and the remote shutdown function provided in the image processing apparatus 10 are executed, the power supply control unit 401 outputs a control signal C to drive the solenoid and turn off the power switch 416. The auto shutdown function is a function for shutting down the image processing apparatus 10 when a predetermined time has passed without any user operation in a second power saving mode described later. The remote shutdown function is a function for shutting down the image processing apparatus 10 in response to a shutdown instruction transmitted from the external apparatus 20.

  A relay switch 418 is provided between the power plug 402 and the second power supply unit 411. A relay switch 419 is provided between the power plug 402 and the third power supply unit 412. The relay switches 418 and 419 are switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal F output from the power supply control unit 401.

  A switch 423 is provided between the power switch 416 and the human sensor 601. The switch 423 is switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal G output from the power supply control unit 401. A switch 425 is provided between the power switch 416 and the document detection sensor 333. The switch 425 is switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal L output from the power supply control unit 401. A switch 426 is provided between the power switch 416 and the power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12. The switch 426 is switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal M output from the power supply control unit 401. In addition, although the power supply to the operation unit 12 uses only the power saving key 121 as the first power supply system, the first power supply system is used depending on the conditions for shifting to other power states such as functions for recognizing other keys and user touches. Also good.

  A switch 420 is provided between the power switch 416 and the CPU 301, ROM 303, and HDD 304. The switch 420 is switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal H output from the power supply control unit 401.

  A switch 421a is provided between the second power supply unit 411 and the printer control unit 341. In addition, a switch 421b is provided between the third power supply unit 412 and the printer driving unit 342. These switches 421a and 421b are switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal J output from the power supply control unit 401.

  A switch 422a is provided between the second power supply unit 411 and the scanner control unit 331. Further, a switch 422b is provided between the third power supply unit 412 and the scanner driving unit 332. These switches 422a and 422b are switched from the ON state to the OFF state or from the OFF state to the ON state by the control signal K output from the power supply control unit 401.

Hereinafter, the power state of the image processing apparatus 10 will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining the power state of the image processing apparatus 10. In FIG. 5, a portion where power is not supplied is shown by shading.

(1) Power-off state The power-off state is a state in which no power is supplied to each part of the image processing apparatus 10. In the power off state, the switches 416 to 426 are in the OFF state. Note that the power-off state may be a hibernation state or the like.

(2) Normal power mode The normal power mode is a state in which power is supplied to the controller 11, the operation unit 12, the printer unit 14, and the scanner unit 13. Specifically, in the normal power mode, the switches 416 to 426 are turned on. In this case, the power may be supplied only to a necessary function, but it is not specified here. Note that some switches such as the switch 423 may be turned off.

(3) Power Saving Mode In the power saving mode, as shown in FIG. 5, the power control unit 401, RAM 302, LAN controller 306, human sensor 601, determination unit 602, document detection sensor 333, and power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12. Is supplied with power. Note that the RAM 302 supplies power as necessary and does not need to be supplied to all. Further, power supply to the human sensor 601, the document detection sensor 333, the power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12, etc. may be processed in a time-sharing manner (shown in the fourth and subsequent embodiments).

  In this power saving mode, power is not supplied to the CPU 301, ROM 303, HDD 304, image processing unit 309, scanner unit 13, and printer unit 14. In this power saving mode, the first power supply unit 410 to the first power system device (power control unit 401, RAM 302, LAN controller 306, human sensor 601, determination unit 602, document detection sensor 333, and power saving key 121). Power is supplied. In the power saving mode, as shown in FIG. 5, the switches 416, 417, and 423 to 426 are turned on, and the switches 418 to 422 are turned off. Note that the switches 423 to 426 may be turned on in a time-sharing manner (details are shown in the fourth and subsequent embodiments).

  In this power saving mode, an operation of the power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12 by the user can be accepted. In the power saving mode, the LAN controller 306 can receive a packet transmitted from the external device 20. In the power saving mode, the human sensor 601 can detect that a person has approached the image processing apparatus 10. In the power saving mode, the document detection sensor 333 can detect that a document is set on the document tray.

Hereinafter, the power supply control unit 401 will be described.
The power supply control unit 401 is, for example, a CPLD (Complex Programmable Logic Device). The power control unit 401 controls the image processing apparatus 10 to shift to each power state described above. The power control unit 401 is supplied with power in the power saving mode, and detects a plurality of types of return factors from the power saving mode.

  In the power saving mode, the power supply control unit 401 can output the control signals G, I, L, and M in time division (the signal level is set to “High” in time division). Thus, the human sensor 601, the document detection sensor 333, and the power saving key 121 are controlled to be time-division fed (details are given in the fourth and subsequent embodiments). Note that the determination unit 602 may always be in a power supply state in the power saving mode, or may perform power supply to the determination unit 602 when the human sensor 601 is in the detection state. However, the determination unit 602 is configured to be able to hold a value for determining whether the return from the human sensor 601 is valid or invalid even when power is not supplied (details will be described later).

  The power supply control unit 401 receives the control signal NW from the LAN controller 306 as a return factor. The control signal NW is output to the power supply control unit 401 when the LAN controller 306 receives a PDL (Page Description Language) job.

Further, the power supply control unit 401 receives the control signal P from the power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12 as a return factor. The control signal P is output to the power control unit 401 when the power saving key 121 is operated by the user. Further, the power supply control unit 401 receives the control signal Q from the determination unit 602 as a return factor. The control signal Q is output to the power supply control unit 401 when the determination unit 602 determines that the human sensor 601 has detected a person approaching the image processing apparatus 10.
Further, the power supply control unit 401 receives the control signal V from the document detection sensor 333 as a return factor. The control signal V is output to the power supply control unit 401 when the document detection sensor 333 detects a document.

The power supply control unit 401 sets the states of the switches 417 to 426 to the ON state or the OFF state based on the logic of the return factor (control signals NW, P, Q, V).
When the control signal NW is input, the power supply control unit 401 as the signal output unit outputs the control signals E, F, K, J, and H (the signal level is set to “High”). Thereby, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the normal power mode.
Similarly, when the control signal P, the control signal Q, or the control signal V is input to the power control unit 401, the power control unit 401 outputs the control signals E, F, K, J, and H (signal level). Is set to “High”), the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the normal power mode.

  Further, the control signal D indicating the state of the power switch 416 is input to the power control unit 401. When the power switch 416 is turned off by a user operation, a control signal D is input to the power control unit 401. The power supply control unit 401 to which the control signal D is input outputs the control signals E, F, H, J, and K (the signal level is set to “High”). Thereby, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the power-off state.

  The determination unit 602 receives a shift factor signal O for determining whether the shift factor is due to the human sensor 601 from the power supply control unit 401. If the determination unit 602 can determine whether or not the shift factor is due to the human sensor 601, the shift factor signal O may not be present. As an example, the determination unit 602 determines whether or not the shift factor is caused by the human sensor 601 based on the time when the control signal Q is transmitted and then shifts to the normal power mode. There is. The determination unit 602 transmits the control signal Q to the power supply control unit 401 when the return from the human sensor 601 is effective and the human sensor 601 detects human detection.

  Although the detailed flow according to the present invention and the description in the power saving mode are omitted for the transition condition to the normal power mode described so far, when the power supply control unit 401 receives the transition instruction signal in the middle of the flow, Needless to say, the mode is shifted to the normal power mode.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a reaction state of the human sensor 601.
FIG. 6A shows an example of a state in the case where the human sensor 601 in a normal state does not detect any human heat. FIG. 6B shows an example of a state in which the human sensor 601 in a normal state detects human heat and shifts to the normal power mode. In addition, there is no particular designation as long as it is a detection condition that can determine that the user has approached the image processing apparatus 10 for use. FIG. 6C shows an example of a state in which the heat source is detected over the entire surface due to the human sensor 601 having a high temperature or a failure. In the state of FIG. 6C, even when the human body approaches, it becomes difficult to distinguish the environmental temperature from the human body, and the sensitivity of human body detection may deteriorate.

The operation of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment will be described below with reference to FIGS.
7 and 8 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment. In the figure, S201 to S212 are steps realized by the CPU 301 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 303 or the like. Further, S220 to S222 are realized by the power supply control unit 401 executing a program stored therein. Further, S230 to S232 are realized by the determination unit 602 executing a program stored therein.

  In step S201, the CPU 301 determines whether the image processing apparatus 10 is operating. If the CPU 301 determines that the operation is in progress (Yes in S201), the CPU 301 repeats S201 until the operation is completed. On the other hand, when determining that it is not in operation (No in S201), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S202. Note that even if it is determined that the device is in operation, an instruction from the user may be received in parallel from the operation unit 12, but details are not described.

  In step S <b> 202, the CPU 301 communicates with the determination unit 602 to determine whether or not a human detection state is present (a state in which the determination unit 602 determines that a person is detected). And when it is judged that it is not a human detection state (in the case of No in S202), the CPU 301 shifts the processing to S211. On the other hand, when it is determined that the human detection state is present (Yes in S202), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S203.

  In step S203, the CPU 301 determines whether an instruction from the user has been received. Whether the CPU 301 has received an instruction from the user is determined by the CPU 301 receiving an instruction from the user, such as an input from the operation unit 12 or the document detection sensor 333 detecting that a document has been set on the document tray. It can be recognized and is not specified.

If it is determined that an instruction from the user has been received (Yes in S203), the CPU 301 moves the process to S205.
In step S <b> 205, the CPU 301 determines whether there is an operation instruction from the user. If it is determined that there is no operation instruction (No in S205), the CPU 301 advances the process to S206. In step S <b> 206, the CPU 301 determines whether the user's operation has ended. If it is determined that the process has been completed (Yes in S206), the CPU 301 proceeds to S211. On the other hand, if it is determined that the process has not been completed (No in S206), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S205.

  If it is determined in S205 that an operation instruction has been given (Yes in S205), the CPU 301 proceeds to S207. In S207, the CPU 301 performs JOB in accordance with an operation instruction from the user, and shifts the processing to S201.

If it is determined in S203 that an instruction from the user has not been received (No in S203), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S204.
In S <b> 204, the CPU 301 determines whether or not a state in which a person is detected and an instruction from the user is not received continues for a certain period of time. And when it is judged that it has not continued for a fixed time (when it is No in S204), CPU301 transfers a process to S202. On the other hand, if it is determined that it has continued for a certain period of time (Yes in S204), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S208.

  The predetermined time may be the same or may be the same depending on conditions such as the transition from the power saving mode to the normal power mode or after the operation is completed. Note that the processing in S202 to S204 is for the CPU 301 to determine whether or not the human sensor 601 is operating normally. When an instruction from the user is not received for a certain period of time in the human detection state, the CPU 301 determines that the human sensor 601 is abnormal and is in an erroneous detection state, and the process proceeds to S208.

  When it is determined in S202 to S204 that the human sensor 601 is abnormal and erroneously detected and the process proceeds to S208, the CPU 301 instructs the determination unit 602 to invalidate the return due to the detection of the human sensor 601 ( (Human sensor invalidation instruction) is transmitted, and the process proceeds to S209. Upon receiving the human sensor invalidation instruction, the determination unit 602 writes a value indicating human sensor return invalidity in the internal register 604. When the register 604 holds a value indicating that the human sensor return is invalid, even if a human is detected by the human sensor 601, the determination unit 602 ignores this and does not output the control signal Q (FIG. 4). .

  In step S <b> 209, the CPU 301 waits for the power saving mode transition time to elapse, performs power saving mode transition processing, and transmits a power saving mode transition instruction to the power control unit 401. Receiving the power saving mode transition instruction, the power supply control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K in S220 of FIG. 8 and switches 418 to 422 for the second power supply unit and the third power supply unit. Is turned off. Then, the power supply control unit 401 notifies the determination unit 602 that the mode has shifted to the power saving mode via a signal line or the like (not shown). Although not shown, when there is an operation instruction or the like before the power saving transition time elapses, the CPU 301 performs control so as not to shift to the power saving mode. The power saving mode transition time is a set time for shifting to the power saving mode when there is no input for a certain period of time, and starts counting from the end of job execution or operation.

  After receiving the notification of transition to the power saving mode, the determination unit 602 determines whether or not the temperature detected by the human sensor 601 is abnormal in S230. This temperature abnormality indicates that the temperature is higher than the temperature at which the human sensor 601 can detect a person. The temperature at which a person can be detected is, for example, 30 ° C. 3 f or less. For example, the temperature is set to a temperature that can be detected with respect to a distance to be detected. Specifically, when it is desired to detect a person from one meter ahead, the temperature detected by the human sensor 601 of the person existing one meter ahead is set.

  When the temperature is abnormal, the reaction state of the human sensor 601 is as shown in FIG. 6 (A) or (C). For example, when the temperature at which the human sensor 601 reacts is set to be higher than the human detection temperature or the ambient temperature, it is as shown in FIG. Further, when the temperature at which the human sensor 601 reacts is set lower than the ambient temperature, the result is as shown in FIG. 6A and 6C, the determination unit 602 determines that the temperature is abnormal when a person cannot be detected. On the other hand, when the detection state of the human sensor 601 is FIG. 6B, the determination unit 602 determines that the temperature is not abnormal in a state where a person can be detected.

  When it is determined that no temperature abnormality is detected (No in S230), the determination unit 602 repeats the process of S230. On the other hand, when determining that a temperature abnormality has been detected (Yes in S230), the determining unit 602 moves the process to S231.

  In step S <b> 231, the determination unit 602 determines whether the human sensor 601 has not detected a person (no human detection is detected). This determination is determined as a false detection in S202 to 204 in FIG. 7 and the return from the human sensor may be invalidated, so it is determined whether the human sensor 601 can detect normally. Is what we do. Note that the determination criterion for the non-detection state by the human sensor 601 is determined to be the non-detection state when the detection response of the human sensor 601 is lost. Further, the detection state of the human sensor 601 may be determined as a non-detection state when the determination unit 602 is in a state where the control signal Q (FIG. 4) should not be transmitted.

  When the human sensor 601 does not detect the heat source and should not transmit the control signal Q as shown in FIG. 6A, it is determined that the human sensor is not detected (Yes in S231). In S232, the return by the human sensor is validated (validation process). Here, the determination unit 602 deletes the value indicating invalidity of the human sensor held in the internal register 604. The determination unit 602 outputs a control signal Q according to a detection result by the human sensor 601 when the register 604 does not hold a value indicating that the human sensor return is invalid. Thereby, the human sensor 601 can shift from the power saving mode to the normal power mode.

  On the other hand, when the human sensor 601 is to detect the heat source and transmit the control signal Q as shown in FIGS. 6B and 6C, the determination unit 602 is in the human non-detection state. (No in S231) and the human sensor effective process is not performed. Note that the determination unit 602 repeats the processes shown in S230 to S232 during the power saving mode.

  In addition, during the power saving mode, the power supply control unit 401 monitors reception of a transition instruction signal (Q, P, V, NW, etc.) from the power saving mode to the normal power mode (S221). When the shift instruction signal has not been received (No in S221), the power supply control unit 401 maintains the power saving mode.

  On the other hand, when the power supply control unit 401 receives the transition instruction signal (Yes in S221), the power supply control unit 401 notifies the determination unit 602 that the normal power mode is restored, and advances the process to S222.

  In S222, the power control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K, and turns on the switches 418 to 422 for the second power supply unit and the third power supply unit. When the switches 418 to 422 are turned on, the CPU 301 and the like are activated. The activated CPU 301 executes a normal power mode transition process in S210. Thereby, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the normal power mode.

  Next, in S <b> 211, the CPU 301 determines whether the shift from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is a shift by the human sensor 601. This is for confirming the transition condition in order to determine whether or not the human sensor 601 has detected and shifted. The confirmation of the transition condition may be made by making an inquiry to the determination unit 602 or making an inquiry to the power supply control unit 401. An example of the method of determining by the determination unit 602 includes a method of determining using the transition factor signal O, a method of determining from the time from when the control signal Q is transmitted until the transition to the constant power supply state.

If it is determined that the movement is from the human sensor 601 (Yes in S211), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S202 again and determines whether it is a false detection.
On the other hand, when it is determined that the shift is not from the human sensor 601 (No in S211), the process proceeds to S212. In S212, the CPU 301 shifts to a standby state, and enters a state where it can accept an instruction from the user.

  Thus, the erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed based on the instruction from the user, and in the case of the erroneous detection, the normal power mode is continuously detected from the erroneous detection by invalidating the return by the human sensor 601. It is possible to prevent the return to the state. In addition, when the human sensor 601 becomes non-detected after invalidating the return by the human sensor 601, the power sensor 601 effectively restores the return by the human sensor 601 to effectively save the power. To shift to normal power mode. For this reason, it is possible to reduce unnecessary power consumption and extend the life of device parts having a lifetime while improving user convenience.

  First, the outline of the difference between the second embodiment and the first embodiment will be described. In the first embodiment, the configuration in which erroneous detection of the human sensor 601 is determined and the valid / invalid state is switched from the state of the human sensor 601 has been described. In the second embodiment, the erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed, and in the case of the erroneous detection, the power saving mode shift time is invalidated and the mode immediately shifts to the power saving mode. Hereinafter, differences from the first embodiment will be described.

Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the second embodiment. In the figure, S201 to S212 and S300 are steps realized by the CPU 301 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 303 or the like.

  Since S201 to S208 are the same as those in the first embodiment, a description thereof will be omitted. After performing the human sensor return invalidation process in S208, the CPU 301 performs a power saving mode transition time invalidation process in S300. This power saving mode transition time invalidation process is intended to shift to the power saving mode while ignoring the time until the transition to the power saving mode. Therefore, it is a process for forcibly shifting to the power saving mode regardless of the remaining time of the power saving mode transition time. An example of the method is to set the remaining time of the power saving mode transition time to “0”. If the power saving mode can be forcibly entered before the power saving mode transition time elapses, the method Is not particularly limited.

  After performing the power saving mode transition time invalidation processing in S300, the CPU 301 proceeds to S209. Since the processing after S209 is the same as that in the first embodiment, the description thereof will be omitted. However, in this embodiment, since the power saving mode transition time is invalidated, the CPU 301 immediately performs the power saving mode transition processing. Become.

  As described above, the erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed based on the instruction from the user, and in the case of erroneous detection, the transition to the power saving mode can be performed in a short time by ignoring the power saving mode transition time. This makes it possible to reduce unnecessary power consumption.

  First, the outline of the difference between the third embodiment and the second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, a configuration has been described in which erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed, and in the case of erroneous detection, the power saving mode transition time is ignored and the mode is immediately shifted to the power saving mode. In the third embodiment, there are a plurality of time settings for the power saving mode transition time, and the erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed. This is a configuration for shifting to the power mode. Hereinafter, differences from the first and second embodiments will be described.

Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the third embodiment. In the figure, S201 to S212, S400, and S401 are steps realized by the CPU 301 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 303 or the like.

  Since S201 to S208 are the same as those in the first embodiment, a description thereof will be omitted. After performing the human sensor return invalidation process in S208, the CPU 301 sets the power saving mode transition time 1 in S400. The setting of the power saving mode transition time 1 is intended to shorten the transition time to the power saving mode. Therefore, this is a process of switching the power saving mode transition time to a time shorter than normal (power saving mode transition time 2).

  After setting the power saving mode transition time 1 in S400, the CPU 301 shifts the process to S209. Since the processing of S209 to S212 is the same as that of the first embodiment, the description thereof is omitted. However, in this embodiment, the power saving mode transition time is switched to a time shorter than usual, so the CPU 301 saves power in a short time. The mode transition process will be started.

  After setting the standby state in S212, the CPU 301 sets the power saving mode transition time 2 in S401. The power saving mode shift time 2 is a set time for shifting when there is no input for a certain period of time during normal operation.

  As described above, erroneous detection determination of the human sensor 601 is performed based on the instruction from the user, and in the case of erroneous detection, the transition time to the power saving mode can be shortened by switching the power saving mode transition time to a short time. This makes it possible to reduce unnecessary power consumption.

  In the fourth embodiment, in addition to the configurations of the first to third embodiments, the human body detection sensor unit 310, the document detection sensor 333, and the power saving key 121 are time-division fed in the power saving mode. Details will be described below. The description of the same parts as in the first to third embodiments is omitted.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment. In the figure, S220 to S222 and S500 to S502 are realized by the power supply control unit 401 executing a program stored therein. Further, S230 to S232 are realized by the determination unit 602 executing a program stored therein. In addition, since the process of S220-S222 and S230-S232 is the same as that of Example 1, description is abbreviate | omitted.
Receiving the power saving mode transition instruction from the CPU 301, the power supply control unit 401 turns off the switches 418 to 422, and proceeds to S500. In step S <b> 500, the power control unit 401 sets time division setting 1 for ON / OFF control of the switches 423, 425, and 426.

FIG. 12 is a diagram for explaining a power control method for time-division setting such as the human sensor 601 power source.
FIG. 12A shows the always-on state where time-division control is not performed, FIG. 12B shows the state of time-division setting 1, and FIG. 12C shows the state of time-division setting 2.

Here, the time division setting 1 will be described with reference to FIG.
When it is determined that the detection temperature of the human sensor 601 is a normal temperature, the power supply to the human sensor 601 is set to 60%, and the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 are set to 20% each (time division). Setting 1). That is, in the time division setting 1, control is performed so that the driving time of the human sensor 601 is 60% and the driving times of the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 are 20% respectively. Since it takes a determination time to shift from the human sensor 601, the time is set longer, but the ratio does not need to be this number. Thus, the transition to the normal power mode is smoothly performed while reducing the power consumption.

  In the fourth embodiment, it is assumed that the power supply control unit 401 notifies the determination unit 602 that the process has shifted to the power saving mode after the process of S500. In addition, when the temperature abnormality is detected in S230, the determination unit 602 notifies the power supply control unit 401 to that effect. When receiving the notification of the presence sensor temperature abnormality from the determination unit 602, the power supply control unit 401 sets time-division setting 2 for ON / OFF control of the switches 423, 425, and 426 in S501.

Here, the time division setting 2 will be described with reference to FIG.
When the determination unit 602 detects a temperature abnormality of the human sensor 601, the power supply to the human sensor 601 is set to 10%, and the power saving key 121 and the document detection 229 are set to 4.5% respectively (time division setting). 2). That is, the time division setting 2 is obtained by reducing the driving rate of the human sensor 601 and increasing the driving rate of the other return factor detection unit than the time division setting 1 described above. This is because the human sensor 601 is in an abnormal state and the transition is restricted, and the determination unit 602 can make a determination in a short time, so the power supply time (that is, the drive time) is set short. At this time, the reason why the power supply to the human sensor 601 is not completely reduced is to determine whether the normal operation is possible from the detection state of the human sensor 601 and to return to the time division setting 1. is there. The percentage at this time need not be this number. In this way, the state of the human sensor 601 can be confirmed while reducing power consumption.

  In addition, the power supply control unit 401 outputs the control signals F, H, J, and K in S222, and switches from time-division control to the always-on state (the state shown in FIG. 12A) at the timing when the switches 418 to 422 are turned on. The process proceeds (S502).

Here, the always-on state will be described with reference to FIG.
In the normal power mode, the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection 229 are always in an ON state in which power is always supplied.
As described above, in the fourth embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first to third embodiments, power consumption can be further suppressed in the power saving mode.

  In the above embodiment, the case where the power saving key 121 and the document detection 229 are used as the human sensor 601 and one or more other return factor detection units has been described. However, in addition to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection 229, another return factor detection unit that detects a return factor may be provided. For example, a paper detection sensor is provided in a manual feed tray (tray for supplying paper to the printer unit 14 by manual feed) (not shown), and the fact that the paper detection sensor has detected that the paper is set in the manual feed tray is detected from the power saving mode. It may be made to be a return factor. In this case, as with the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection 229, power supply (drive) to other return factor detection units such as the paper detection sensor may be time-shared.

In the fifth embodiment, another embodiment in which the human body detection sensor unit 310, the document detection sensor 333, and the power saving key 121 are time-divisionally fed will be described.
As described above, FIG. 6C shows a state in which the heat source is detected on the entire surface due to the human sensor 601 having a high temperature or a failure. In the state of FIG. 6C, even when the human body approaches, it becomes difficult to distinguish the environmental temperature from the human body, and the sensitivity of human body detection may deteriorate.

  Hereinafter, intermittent time-division driving of power supply to the return factor detection unit for returning to the normal power mode in the fifth embodiment will be described. Here, description will be made using the human sensor 601, the switch 423, and the control signal G. The description of the same parts as in the first to third embodiments is omitted.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating the first power supply unit 410, the human sensor 601, the switch 423, the control signal G, and the like illustrated in FIG. 4.
In FIG. 13, Vcc indicates a power source that enters the switch 423 from the first power supply unit 410. Vcc-Sen indicates a human sensor power source that is supplied to the human sensor 601 by a switching transistor (not shown) in the switch 423 according to a control signal G from the power controller 401. The human sensor power supply Vcc-Sen is intermittently output from the switch 423. Sen-O is a detection signal of the human sensor 601 and corresponds to the signal I (FIG. 4) output from the human sensor 601 to the determination unit 602. When there is an output, the detection signal Sen-O of the human sensor 601 is output while Vcc-Sen is supplied.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the timing of signals and power sources that are time-division driven.
In this embodiment, the timing of the power supply Vcc, the control signal G (power ON when H, power OFF when L), sensor power Vcc-Sen, and detection signal Sen-O (H is ON and L is OFF) are shown in FIG. As shown. By driving the control signal G intermittently, the sensor power supply Vcc-Sen is intermittently supplied to the human sensor 601. By this intermittent power supply driving, the detection signal Sen-O is intermittently output.

  Although not shown in FIGS. 13 and 14, the power saving key 121 is controlled by the switch 426 and the control signal M, and the document detection sensor 333 is controlled by the switch 425 and the control signal L. Intermittent power supply is also performed to the return factor detector.

  Next, operation control of the return factor detection unit in the power saving mode when the human sensor 601 is operating normally will be described. Here, a human sensor 601, a power saving key 121, and a document detection sensor 333 will be described as a return factor detection unit that returns from the power saving mode to the normal power mode.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram exemplifying a timing at which each power source is intermittently supplied to each return factor detection unit and each return factor detection unit is operated in a time division manner in a period T.

FIG. 15A shows the power supply timing of each return factor detector in the normal power mode.
As shown in FIG. 15A, since the human sensor 601 does not need to be driven in the normal power mode, the power is turned off in this embodiment. The document detection sensor 333 and the power saving key 121 are always waiting for input, and power is always supplied. In the normal power mode, the power saving key 121 is a means for shifting to the power saving mode when pressed.

FIG. 15B shows the timing of intermittent and time-division control of power supply to each return factor detection unit in the power saving mode.
It is not necessarily appropriate to always supply power to each return factor detection unit in the power saving mode in consideration of power consumption in the power saving mode. By intermittently performing time-sharing control on power supply to each return factor detection unit, power consumption in the power saving mode can be further reduced.

  The ratio of the intermittent time of power supply to each return factor detection unit in the power saving mode is that an operator stands in front of the main body of the image processing apparatus 10 and sets a document on the power saving key 121 or the document detection sensor 333. It is appropriate to increase mainly the driving ratio of the human sensor 601 that detects that the operator is approaching the image processing apparatus 10 instead of the return detection.

  FIG. 15B shows an example in which the time division ratio of the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 is 6: 2: 2. The appropriate intermittent drive ratio of each return factor detection unit may be set in the examination at the time of development of the apparatus. Further, it may be configured to change according to the history of the return factor that has actually returned. For example, the ratio may be the same as the actual return ratio. Further, the administrator or the like may freely set the ratio from the operation unit 12 or the like.

Hereinafter, before explaining the intermittent drive control of each return factor detection unit of the present embodiment, the transition between the conventional power saving mode and the normal power mode will be described first.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the transition between the conventional power saving mode and the normal power mode.

  When the image processing apparatus 10 starts up in the normal mode (powered on) (S101), the CPU 301 controls the power supply to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 in the normal power mode. 401 is instructed (S102). Thus, the power control unit 401 performs power supply control as shown in FIG.

  The CPU 301 waits for an operation in the standby state (S103) until operated by the operator, and determines whether to shift to the power saving mode (S104) and determines whether there is a printing operation (S105). Then, the CPU 301 does not enter the power saving mode and does not execute the printing operation (when both S104 and S105 are No), the CPU 301 stands by in a standby state (S103).

  Further, when the printing operation is executed without shifting to the power saving mode (No in S104, Yes in S105), the CPU 301 executes the printing (S105). Then, after executing the printing, the CPU 301 determines whether to end the operation of the apparatus (S107). If it is determined that the process is to be terminated (Yes in S107), the apparatus is turned off and the process is terminated (S108). On the other hand, when it is determined that the operation of the apparatus is not finished (No in S107), the CPU 301 returns to the standby state (S103).

  When it is determined to shift to the power saving mode (Yes in S <b> 104), the CPU 301 performs a power saving mode shift process and transmits a power saving mode shift instruction to the power control unit 401. Upon receiving the power saving mode transition instruction, the power supply control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K, and turns off the switches 418 to 422.

When the mode is shifted to the power saving mode, the power control unit 401 performs setting of intermittent operation time division (time division setting 3) of power supply to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 (S109). The timing shown in FIG. 15B corresponds to the time division setting 3.
The power supply control unit 401 maintains the power saving mode until a control signal (Q, P, or V) is input from the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121 of the operation unit 12, or the document detection sensor 333 of the ADF (S <b> 110). And S111 is No).

  When the control signal (Q, P, or V) is input from the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, or the document detection sensor 333 (when S110 or S111 is Yes), the power control unit 401 switches to the normal power mode. Returning is performed (S112). The power supply control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K, and turns on the switches 418 to 422. When the switches 418 to 422 are turned on, power is supplied to the respective units including the CPU 301, and the image processing apparatus 10 starts up in the normal mode (S101). The CPU 301 instructs the power supply control unit 401 to control power supply to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 in the normal power mode (S 102), and thereafter returns to the standby state described above (S 103).

  There is a possibility that the human sensor 601 may deteriorate the sensitivity of human body detection due to an increase in environmental temperature. FIG. 6C described above shows an example of a state in which the heat source is detected over the entire surface due to the human sensor 601 having a high temperature or a failure. The human sensor 601 includes a temperature sensor 603, periodically measures the environmental temperature, uses the temperature as a reference, detects the temperature of the detected object from the reference state, and reacts to the difference. In the state of FIG. 6C, the environmental temperature is high, the difference between the reference temperature and the human body temperature is small, and it becomes difficult to distinguish the environmental temperature from the human body even when the human body is approaching. Corresponds to the condition that became worse.

  In S110 of FIG. 16 described above, when the human sensor 601 detects return in the power saving mode, if the human sensor 601 detects with high sensitivity, when the operator approaches the image processing apparatus 10, Yes is obtained in S110. Return to normal power mode. However, if the sensitivity of the human sensor 601 deteriorates, even if the operator approaches the image processing apparatus 10, No remains in S110 and the document set on the document tray by pressing the power saving key 121 or the document detection sensor 333 is kept. There will be many returns due to detection (Yes in S111).

  In such a state where the sensitivity of the human sensor 601 is poor, as shown in FIG. 15B, the time-division drive ratio of the human sensor 601 is increased and the ratio to the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 is decreased. Continuing the state of being used will waste power. In addition, the power saving button that mainly performs return detection instead of the human sensor 601 whose sensitivity is poor, and the supply to the document detection sensor 333 is low. The drive power supply is insufficient for normal return detection. It will be in the state to do.

  For this reason, when the sensitivity of the human sensor 601 is deteriorated, it is necessary to change the time division ratio of the power supply to the human sensor 231, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333. For example, it is necessary to perform a control to increase the ratio of supplying power to the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 in a state where almost no power is supplied to the human sensor.

Hereinafter, the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 and 18.
17 and 18 are flowcharts illustrating an example of the operation of the image processing apparatus according to the fifth embodiment. In the figure, steps S1201 to S212 are steps realized by the CPU 301 reading and executing a program stored in the ROM 303 or the like. S1220 to S1219 are realized by the power supply control unit 401 executing a program stored therein. Further, S1230 to S1233 and S1240 to S1243 are realized by the determination unit 602 executing a program stored therein.

  In step S1201, the CPU 301 determines whether the image processing apparatus 10 is operating. If it is determined that the operation is in progress (Yes in S1201), the CPU 301 repeats S1201 until the operation is completed. On the other hand, if it is determined that it is not in operation (No in S1201), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S1202. Note that even if it is determined that the device is in operation, an instruction from the user may be received in parallel from the operation unit 12, but details are not described.

  In step S1202, the CPU 301 determines whether the user operation has ended. If it is determined that the operation has been completed (Yes in S1202), the CPU 301 ends the process. On the other hand, if it is determined that the operation has not been completed (No in S1202), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S1203.

In step S1203, the CPU 301 determines whether an instruction from the user has been received. Whether the CPU 301 has received an instruction from the user is determined by the CPU 301 receiving an instruction from the user, such as an input from the operation unit 12 or the document detection sensor 333 detecting that a document has been set on the document tray. It can be recognized and is not specified.
If it is determined that an instruction from the user has been received (Yes in S1203), the CPU 301 advances the process to S1205.

  In step S1205, the CPU 301 determines whether there is an operation instruction from the user. If it is determined that there is no operation instruction (No in S1205), the CPU 301 repeats the process of S1205. On the other hand, if it is determined that there has been an operation instruction (Yes in S1205), the CPU 301 advances the process to S1206. In step S1206, the CPU 301 starts JOB execution according to an operation instruction from the user, and shifts the processing to step S1201.

If it is determined in S1203 that an instruction from the user has not been received (No in S1203), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S1204.
In step S1204, the CPU 301 determines whether to shift to the power saving mode. For example, the determination is made based on whether or not the operation unit 12 continues for a certain time without any input. The predetermined time may be different or may be the same depending on conditions such as return from the power saving mode or after the operation is completed.

If it is determined not to shift to the power saving mode (No in S1204), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S1203. On the other hand, when it is determined to shift to the power saving mode (Yes in S1204), the CPU 301 shifts the process to S1207.
In step S <b> 1207, the CPU 301 performs power saving mode transition processing and transmits a power saving mode transition instruction to the power supply control unit 401. Receiving the power saving mode transition instruction, the power supply control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K in S1220 of FIG. 18 and switches 418 to 422 for the second power supply unit and the third power supply unit. Is turned off.

  Next, in S1221, the power supply control unit 401 sets the ON / OFF control of the switch 423, the switch 425, and the switch 426 for switching the power supply from the first power supply unit 410 to the time division setting 3. FIG. 15B shows the state of time division setting 3 in the fifth embodiment.

  The time division setting 3 corresponds to a setting in which 60% is supplied to the human sensor 601 and 20% is supplied to the power saving key 121 and the document detection 229, respectively. This requires a determination time to return from the human sensor 601, so the time is set longer, but the ratio need not be this number. By doing so, the power supply to the human sensor 601 that is expected to have the largest detection rate is increased, and the power supply to the other power saving keys 121 and the document detection sensor 333 is reduced, thereby saving energy. It is possible to smoothly shift to the normal power mode while improving efficiency. When the process of S1221 is completed, the power supply control unit 401 notifies the determination unit 602 that the mode has been shifted to the power saving mode.

  Upon receiving a notification that the mode has shifted to the power saving mode, the determination unit 602 determines whether or not the temperature detected by the human sensor 601 is abnormal in S1230. This temperature abnormality is, for example, a case where the temperature sensor 603 included in the human sensor 601 indicates a temperature equal to or higher than a temperature at which a person can be detected. The temperature at which a person can be detected is set to 33 ° C. or lower, for example. The reaction state of the human sensor 601 is such that when the environmental temperature as shown in FIG. 6C described above becomes high and exceeds the temperature at which a person can be detected, the detection sensitivity is deteriorated and the sensitivity is lowered.

Here, details of the human sensor temperature abnormality detection processing in S1230 of FIG. 18A will be described with reference to FIG.
The determination unit 602 determines whether the human sensor is powered on (S1231). If it is determined that the temperature is ON (Yes in S1231), the determination unit 602 instructs the temperature sensor 603 to measure the temperature (S1232).

  Next, the determination unit 602 determines whether or not a human sensor temperature abnormality is detected based on whether or not the temperature measured in S1232 exceeds 33 ° C. (S1233). If the measured temperature exceeds 33 ° C. (Yes in S1233), the determination unit 602 determines that a human sensor temperature abnormality has been detected and the sensitivity has been lowered (that is, it is determined Yes in S1230). .

  Further, when it is determined that the power of the human sensor is not turned on (No in S1231) or when it is determined that the measured temperature does not exceed 33 ° C. (No in S1233), the determination unit In step 602, it is determined that a human sensor temperature abnormality is not detected and the sensitivity is not lowered. That is, it is determined No in S1230. Hereinafter, the description returns to FIG.

  If it is determined in S1230 that no temperature abnormality is detected and the sensitivity is not lowered (No in S1230), the determination unit 602 repeats the determination in S1230 during the power saving mode. On the other hand, when it is determined that a human sensor temperature abnormality has been detected and the sensitivity has been lowered (Yes in S1230), the determination unit 602 notifies the power supply control unit 401 accordingly.

  When receiving the notification that the human sensor temperature abnormality has been detected, the power supply control unit 401, in S1222, sets the time division ratio of the human sensor, the power saving button, and the ADF power supply to the human sensor. Is changed to time division setting 4 in which the power saving button and the ADF power supply are supplied almost equally. That is, the time division setting 2 is set in the ON / OFF control of the switches 423, 425, and 426. The state of time division setting 4 in the fifth embodiment is shown in FIG.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating time division setting 4 in the fifth embodiment.
When the human sensor 601 detects a temperature abnormality, the power supply to the human sensor 601 is one cycle T, and 10% of one cycle every three cycles, the power saving key 121, and the power supply to the document detection sensor 333, respectively. Set to 50%. This limits the return from the human sensor 601 when the human sensor 601 is in an abnormal state, and the power supply time is set short because it is used only for checking the state of the human sensor 601. At this time, the reason why the power supply to the human sensor 601 is not completely reduced is to determine whether the normal operation is possible from the detection state of the human sensor 601 and to return to the time division setting 3. is there. As described above, the state of the human sensor 601 can be confirmed while reducing power consumption by changing the ratio of time division for supplying power to each return detection unit. The time division setting 3 and the time division setting 4 are not limited to the ratios exemplified in this embodiment.

  Further, when determining that the temperature abnormality is not detected (No in S1230), the determining unit 602 checks in S1240 whether the human sensor abnormality is recovered.

Here, FIG. 18C is used to describe the details of the human sensor temperature abnormality return processing in S1240 of FIG.
The determination unit 602 determines whether the human sensor is powered on (S1241). If it is determined that the sensor is ON (Yes in S1241), the determination unit 602 instructs the temperature sensor 603 to measure the temperature (S1242).

  Next, the determination unit 602 determines whether or not a human sensor temperature abnormality is detected based on whether or not the measured temperature in S1242 is 33 ° C. or less (S1243). If the measured temperature is 33 ° C. or lower (Yes in S1243), the determination unit 602 determines that the human sensor abnormality has been restored (that is, determines Yes in S1240).

  When it is determined that the power of the human sensor is not turned on (No in S1241), or when it is determined that the measurement temperature is not 33 ° C. or lower (No in S1243), the determination unit 602 Then, it is determined that the human sensor abnormality has not been recovered (that is, it is determined No in S1240). Hereinafter, the description returns to FIG.

  In S1240, when it is determined that the human sensor abnormality has not been recovered (No in S1240), the determination unit 602 proceeds to S1230 during the power saving mode, and again detects the human sensor. Detect temperature abnormalities. In this case, it is expected that the sleep return detection (S218) by the power control unit 401 is mainly detected by the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333.

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the human sensor abnormality has been recovered (Yes in S1240), the determination unit 602 notifies the power supply control unit 401 accordingly. When the notification that the human sensor has returned to the abnormal state is received, the power supply control unit 401 sets the time division setting of the power supply of the human sensor, the power saving button, and the ADF power supply to the time division setting 3 described above in S1221. (FIG. 15B) is set. In this case, the sleep return detection (S218) by the power supply control unit 401 is expected to be mainly detected by the human sensor 601.

  During the power saving mode, the power supply control unit 401 determines whether or not a transition instruction signal (Q, P, V, NW, etc.) from the power saving mode to the normal power mode is received in S1218. If it is determined that the shift instruction signal has not been received (No in S1218), the power supply control unit 401 maintains the power saving mode.

  On the other hand, when the power supply control unit 401 determines that the shift instruction signal has been received (Yes in S1218), the power supply control unit 401 shifts the process to S1219. In step S1219, the power control unit 401 outputs control signals F, H, J, and K, and turns on the switches 418 to 422 for the second power supply unit and the third power supply unit. When the switches 418 to 422 are turned on, the CPU 301 and the like are activated. In step S <b> 1208, the activated CPU 301 executes normal power mode transition processing. Thereby, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the normal power mode.

  Next, the CPU 301 instructs the power control unit 401 to return the power supply to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 to the normal state. In response to this instruction, the power control unit 401 sets the power supply to the human sensor 601, the power saving key 121, and the document detection sensor 333 to a normal state (the state shown in FIG. 15A).

  Next, in S1210, the CPU 301 shifts to a standby state, makes a state in which an instruction from the user can be accepted, and shifts the processing to S1203.

  As described above, it is determined whether or not the detection sensitivity of the human sensor 601 is lowered, and when the sensitivity is lowered, the supply of driving power to the human sensor 601 is greatly reduced, and other return factor detection units The ratio of power supply to the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 is increased. Thus, in addition to the effects of the first to third embodiments, it is possible to further suppress the consumption output of the human sensor when the detection sensitivity of the human sensor is deteriorated in the power saving mode. As a result, unnecessary power supply to the human sensor 601 can be reduced, power supplied to other return factor detection units can be increased, and recovery from the power saving state can be effectively performed. And

In the sixth embodiment, another example of the time division setting 4 will be described.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating time division setting 4 in the sixth embodiment.
As shown in FIG. 20, in the time division setting 4 of the sixth embodiment, when the human sensor 601 detects a temperature abnormality, the power supply to the human sensor 601 is completely turned off, the power saving key 121, and the document detection. The power supply to the sensor 333 is set to 50% each. By doing in this way, the power consumption of the human sensor 601 in the state which has detected temperature abnormality can be cut.

  In this embodiment, after changing to the time division setting 4 in S1222 of FIG. 18A, it is checked whether the human sensor abnormality has been recovered. In the human sensor abnormality return confirmation in S1240, the human sensor power supply is completely turned off. Therefore, it is always determined No in S1240.

  For this reason, the sleep return detection in S1218 is detected by the power saving key 121 or the document detection sensor 333. Others are the same as those in the fifth embodiment, and are omitted.

  As described above, it is determined whether or not the detection sensitivity of the human sensor 601 is lowered, and when the sensitivity is lowered, the supply of driving power to the human sensor 601 is completely turned off, and other return factor detection units The ratio of power supply to the power saving key 121 and the document detection sensor 333 is increased. Thus, in addition to the effects of the first to third embodiments, it is possible to further suppress the consumption output of the human sensor when the detection sensitivity of the human sensor is deteriorated in the power saving mode. As a result, unnecessary power supply to the human sensor 601 can be reduced, power supply to other return factor detection units can be increased, and sleep recovery can be effectively performed.

  As an example of this time, a power-saving button and an ADF document detection sensor are given as examples of a recovery factor detection unit that performs power supply intermittently in a time-sharing manner among the recovery factor detection units different from the human sensor. However, power supply may be intermittently performed in a time-sharing manner including other return factor detection units such as FAX reception detection, LAN controller print job detection, and other return detection units.

It should be noted that the configuration and contents of the various data described above are not limited to this, and it goes without saying that the various data and configurations are configured according to the application and purpose.
Although one embodiment has been described above, the present invention can take an embodiment as, for example, a system, apparatus, method, program, or storage medium. Specifically, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices, or may be applied to an apparatus composed of a single device.
Moreover, all the structures which combined said each Example are also contained in this invention.

(Other examples)
The present invention can also be realized by executing the following processing. That is, software (program) that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus via a network or various storage media, and a computer (or CPU, MPU, or the like) of the system or apparatus reads the program. It is a process to be executed.
Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of a single device.
The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not. That is, the present invention includes all the combinations of the above-described embodiments and modifications thereof.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Image processing apparatus 12 Operation part 121 Power saving key 301 CPU
333 Document detection sensor 401 Power supply control unit 601 Human sensor

Claims (14)

An image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state,
Transition means for transitioning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the first power state to the second power state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied;
Detection means for detecting an object;
Return means for returning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the second power state to the first power state based on a detection result of the detection means;
Invalidation means for invalidating the return based on the detection result of the detection means when the first time has elapsed in the first power state when the detection means is in a detection state and there is no operation;
An enabling means for enabling the return based on the detection result of the detection means when the detection means is in a non-detection state in a state where the return based on the detection result of the detection means is invalid;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The transition unit is configured to shift to the second power state even when the transition condition is not satisfied when the return based on the detection result of the detection unit is invalidated by the invalidation unit. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1. The case where the transition condition is satisfied is a case where the second time has passed without any operation in the first power state,
The said shift means shortens said 2nd time, when the reset to the said 1st electric power state based on the detection result of the said detection means is invalidated by the said invalidation means. An image processing apparatus according to 1. The case where the transition condition is satisfied is a case where the second time has passed without any operation in the first power state,
The transition means ignores the remaining time until the second time elapses when the invalidation means invalidates the return to the first power state based on the detection result of the detection means. The image processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image processing apparatus shifts to the second power state.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the detection unit includes an infrared array sensor.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the detection unit is in a non-detection state when the detection reaction of the infrared array sensor is lost.   The case where the detection means is in a non-detection state is a case where the detection state of the infrared array sensor no longer satisfies a condition for returning to the first power state. The image processing apparatus described.   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the operation includes input from an operation unit and setting of a document on a document tray. An image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state,
A plurality of return factor detection means including a first detection means for detecting an object and one or more other detection means for detecting a return factor from the second power state to the first power state;
Return means for returning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the second power state to the first power state based on a detection result of the return factor detection means;
In the second power state, when the first detection means is not in a sensitivity reduction state, the plurality of return factor detection means are driven at a first time division ratio, and the first detection means is in a sensitivity reduction state. In the case of the second, the drive of the plurality of return factor detecting means is reduced by reducing the driving ratio of the first detecting means and increasing the driving ratio of the other detecting means from the first time division setting. Control means to perform at a time-sharing ratio;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 9, wherein the second time-sharing ratio is a value that makes the driving ratio of the first detection unit null.   The control means returns the drive of the plurality of return factor detection means to the first time division ratio when the first detection means returns from the sensitivity reduction state to a state where the sensitivity is not reduced. The image processing apparatus according to claim 9 or 10. A control method for an image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state,
A transition step of transitioning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the first power state to the second power state when a predetermined transition condition is satisfied;
A return step for returning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the second power state to the first power state based on a detection result of a detection means for detecting an object;
An invalidation step of invalidating the return based on a detection result of the detection means when the first time has elapsed in the first power state when the detection means is in a detection state and there is no operation;
An enabling step of enabling the return based on the detection result of the detection means when the detection means is in a non-detection state in a state where the return based on the detection result of the detection means is invalid;
A control method for an image processing apparatus, comprising: A control method for an image processing apparatus that operates in a first power state and a second power state that consumes less power than the first power state,
Detection by a plurality of return factor detection means including first detection means for detecting an object and one or more other detection means for detecting a return factor from the second power state to the first power state. A return step for returning the power state of the image processing apparatus from the second power state to the first power state based on a result;
A first driving step of driving the plurality of return factor detection means at a first time-division ratio when the first detection means is not in a sensitivity-reduced state in the second power state;
When the sensitivity of the first detection means is reduced, the drive of the plurality of return factor detection means is reduced by reducing the drive ratio of the first detection means from the first time division setting and the other A second driving step performed at a second time-division ratio obtained by increasing the driving ratio of the detection means;
A control method for an image processing apparatus, comprising:   The program for functioning a computer as a means of any one of Claims 1 thru | or 11.

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