JP5872013B2 - Image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus.

  The image forming apparatus includes an operation panel for accepting a change in a setting value related to a job function from a user. The operation panel may be provided with a touch panel for displaying setting keys for changing the setting value, or may be provided with a setting key (hard key) itself for changing the setting value. The user can change the setting value related to the function of the job from the default value to the desired setting value by performing a key operation on the operation panel. For example, in the case of a copy job, examples of setting items that can be changed by the user include paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, and page aggregation.

  Here, the image forming apparatus may have an auto clear function. The auto-clear function automatically sets the previously changed setting value to the default value when a certain time has passed without any operation on the image forming device from the time the key operation was performed or the end of the job. This is a returning process (hereinafter referred to as auto-clear process). An image forming apparatus having an auto-clear function is disclosed in, for example, Patent Document 1.

JP 2006-133998 A

  Normally, the time from when the key operation is performed or when the job is completed until the auto-clear process is executed (hereinafter referred to as auto-clear time) is fixed. When the auto clear time is fixed, the following inconvenience occurs.

  For example, assume that the auto-clear time is fixed to a relatively short time. In this case, if the user leaves the image forming apparatus while the setting value is being changed (for example, if the user leaves the image forming apparatus without any operation), the auto clear time elapses and the change has already been made. There is a possibility of resetting the set value. For this reason, it is difficult for the user to perform the operation for changing the setting value from the beginning, which is not convenient.

  When the auto clear time is fixed to a relatively long time, when the user uses the image forming apparatus, the setting value after the previous change is often retained. For this reason, if the user has not confirmed the current setting value, there is a high possibility that the job will be erroneously executed with a setting value not intended by the user (a setting value that has been changed previously). Therefore, from the user's point of view, when using the image forming apparatus, it is necessary to always check or change the current set value, which is not convenient.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image forming apparatus capable of improving user convenience.

  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus of the present invention performs a job execution unit that executes a job based on a set value, an operation panel having a setting key for changing the set value, and an operation on the image forming apparatus. A detection unit for detecting, a predetermined initial setting value, and a storage unit for storing the changed setting value when a key operation for changing the setting value is performed, and a change of the setting value When the auto clear time elapses without the detection unit detecting the operation to the image forming device from the time when the key operation for the key is performed or the end of the job based on the changed setting value, the changed setting value is And a control unit that performs auto-clear processing that automatically changes to the initial setting value. Then, the control unit counts the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed, and sets the auto-clearing time so that the auto-clearing time becomes longer as the setting key is pressed more frequently.

  According to the configuration of the present invention, the control unit counts the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed, and sets the auto-clearing time so that the auto-clearing time becomes longer as the setting key is pressed more frequently. That is, in the configuration of the present invention, if the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed increases, the time from when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed until the auto-clear process is executed. become longer. As a result, when a user who wants to change a setting value that requires many key operations (the number of times the setting key is pressed) increases, the user temporarily leaves the image forming apparatus while the setting value is being changed. Key operation for changing the setting value due to the execution of auto-clear processing even if it is a case (when it takes a long time from the last pressing of the setting key to the next pressing of the setting key) The occurrence of inconvenience that the user has to start over from the beginning (many key operations must be performed) is suppressed, which is convenient.

  In the configuration of the present invention, if the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed increases, the time from the end of the job based on the changed setting value to the execution of the auto clear process becomes longer. As a result, when a user who wants to execute a job with the same settings again after the job based on the changed setting value finishes, the auto clear process is executed in a short time after the job based on the changed setting value. Therefore, the occurrence of inconvenience that the key operation for changing the setting value has to be performed from the beginning is suppressed, which is convenient.

  Further, according to the configuration of the present invention, if the number of times the setting key is pressed when changing the setting value is small, from the time when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed or the time when the job is finished based on the changed setting value. The time until the auto clear process is executed is shortened. That is, the auto clear time is not always set to be long. As a result, the previously changed setting value is stored as it is for a long time, and the job is erroneously executed with the setting value that the user did not intend (the previously changed setting value). The occurrence of inconvenience can be suppressed, and the convenience for the user is improved. Note that if only a relatively small number of key operations are required to change the setting value, even if the changed setting value returns to the initial setting value against the user's intention due to the execution of auto-clear processing, the setting value is relatively small. Since the setting value can be changed again by key operation, the burden on the user is small.

  In the above configuration, it is preferable that the control unit newly performs a key operation for changing the setting value during the period from the end of the job based on the changed setting value until the auto clear time elapses. The auto clear time is set based on the total number of key presses when the set key is pressed when the set value is changed before the job is executed and the set key is pressed when the set value is changed after the job is finished. . If configured in this way, the user who wants to change the previous setting value after the job based on the changed setting value (the setting value after the change) again, after the job based on the changed setting value, As the auto-clear time is further increased as the number of times the set key is pressed when the set value is changed again, the key operation for changing the set value is due to the early execution timing of the auto-clear process. This reduces the inconvenience of having to start over from the beginning and is convenient.

  In the above configuration, preferably, the control unit resets the number of pressings of the setting key counted most recently after executing the auto-clear process. If configured in this way, the auto-clear time becomes too long due to the accumulated number of times the set key is pressed (it takes time until the next auto-clear process is executed) It is possible to suppress the occurrence of the inconvenience.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when setting the auto-clear time, the control unit increases the auto-clear time by a predetermined time each time the number of times the setting key is pressed when the set value is changed. With this configuration, the auto-clear time can be easily set to a time according to the number of times the setting key is pressed when the set value is changed.

  In this case, after executing the auto-clear process, the control unit performs a predetermined time (the number of pressing of the setting key increases when a key operation for changing the setting value is performed before a predetermined time elapses. The time to be added to the auto-clear time every time) may be made longer than the previous predetermined time. Here, when a key operation for changing the set value is performed immediately after executing the auto-clear process, the user may have executed the auto-clear process before finishing the change of the set value. That is, it is considered that the timing for entering the auto clear process is too early. Therefore, in order to eliminate such inconvenience, a predetermined time (when a key operation for changing the set value is performed before the predetermined time has elapsed after executing the auto-clear process ( What is necessary is to make the time (added to the auto-clear time every time the set key is pressed) longer than the previous predetermined time.

  In the above configuration, preferably, when a key operation for continuously changing the same set value is performed, the control unit increases the auto-clear time at the time of pressing the first setting key among the continuous key operations. When the setting key is pressed thereafter, the auto-clearing time is not set to be extended, and the auto-clearing time set when the first setting key is pressed is applied as it is. With this configuration, the key operation itself for changing the setting value is easy (it is only necessary to press the same setting key), but the auto-clear time becomes too long. It can be suppressed from occurring.

  In the above configuration, preferably, the storage unit stores an upper limit time of the auto clear time, and the control unit sets the auto clear time so as not to exceed the upper limit time. With this configuration, even if the user makes a mistake in key operation for changing the setting value and the number of times the setting key is pressed becomes very large, the auto clear time does not become too long.

  In the above configuration, the job execution unit includes at least an image reading unit that reads a document, and a document conveyance unit that is attached to the image reading unit so as to be openable and closable, and conveys the set document to the image reading unit. The detection unit includes at least a document detection sensor that detects setting of a document on the document conveyance unit, and an open / close detection sensor that detects opening and closing of the document conveyance unit. Then, when the control unit detects the setting of the document on the document conveying unit based on the output of the document detection sensor, the control unit detects the time when the document setting on the document conveying unit is detected as the starting point of the auto-clear time set most recently. When the opening / closing of the document conveying unit is detected by the output of the detection sensor, the time point when the opening / closing of the document conveying unit is detected may be set as the starting point of the auto-clear time set most recently. With this configuration, it is convenient for the user since the auto clear time starts when the original is set on the original conveying unit or when the original conveying unit is opened and closed.

  In the above configuration, in the normal mode, normal power supply is performed to the job execution unit, and when the control unit executes the auto-clear process or when a certain time elapses after the control unit executes the auto-clear process, A mode may be changed from the mode to the power saving mode, and the power saving mode may include a power supply unit that stops power supply to the job execution unit. With this configuration, when the auto-clear time is set to be short (when the timing for entering the auto-clear process is early), the transition timing from the normal mode to the power-saving mode is advanced, so the power saving effect is enhanced. .

  As described above, according to the present invention, an image forming apparatus capable of improving user convenience can be easily obtained.

1 is a schematic view of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1 is a plan view of an operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure which showed the hardware constitutions of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a screen image displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a screen image displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 4 is a screen image displayed on the operation panel of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure for demonstrating the auto clear process performed in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure for demonstrating the auto clear process performed in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure for demonstrating the auto clear process performed in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. The figure for demonstrating the flow until an auto clear process is performed in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

  The overall configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIG.

  The image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment is a multifunction peripheral and can execute a plurality of types of jobs such as copying, printers, scanners, and fax machines. The image forming apparatus 100 includes an operation panel 101, a document conveying unit 102A, an image reading unit 102B, a paper feeding unit 103, a paper conveying unit 104, an image forming unit 105, a fixing unit 106, and the like. The document conveying unit 102A, the image reading unit 102B, the paper feeding unit 103, the paper conveying unit 104, the image forming unit 105, and the fixing unit 106 correspond to a job execution unit.

  The operation panel 101 is disposed, for example, on the front side of the apparatus. As shown in FIG. 2, the operation panel 101 includes a liquid crystal display unit 12 whose display surface is covered with a touch panel 11. On the touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display unit 12), a setting key for accepting a change in the setting value is displayed, and a message indicating the apparatus state is also displayed. The operation panel 101 is also provided with a numeric keypad 13 (corresponding to a setting key) as a hard key for accepting numerical input, and a start key 14 for accepting a job execution start instruction. Furthermore, the operation panel 101 is also provided with a reset key 15 for receiving a reset instruction for returning the changed setting value to a predetermined initial setting value (default value).

  Returning to FIG. 1, the document conveying unit 102A is attached to be rotatable (openable and closable) with a rotation shaft (not shown) provided on the back side of the image reading unit 102B as a fulcrum. The document conveying section 102A pulls out the document D set on the document setting tray 21, sends it to above the conveyance reading contact glass 20a, and discharges it to the document discharge tray 22. A document feed roller 23, a document transport roller pair 24, and a document discharge roller pair 25 are provided in the document transport path from the document set tray 21 to the document discharge tray 22 in order from the upstream side in the document transport direction. Then, the document D set on the document setting tray 21 is pulled out by the document supply roller 23 and conveyed by the document conveying roller pair 24. Thereafter, the document is discharged onto the document discharge tray 22 by the document discharge roller pair 25.

  Further, the document conveying section 102A also has a function of pressing the document D placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b. That is, when the document conveying unit 102A is rotated upward, the placement reading contact glass 20b is exposed, and the document D can be placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b. After the document D is placed on the placement / reading contact glass 20b, the document transport unit 102A is rotated downward, whereby the document D placed on the placement / reading contact glass 20b is moved to the document transport unit 102A. Can be pressed.

  In addition, the document transport unit 102A is provided with a document detection sensor 26 (see FIG. 3) that varies the output depending on whether the document D is set on the document set tray 21 or not. An open / close detection sensor 27 (see FIG. 3) is provided that varies the output depending on whether the document conveying unit 102A is open or closed. The document detection sensor 26 and the open / close detection sensor 27 correspond to a detection unit that detects an operation on the image forming apparatus 100. The outputs of the document detection sensor 26 and the open / close detection sensor 27 are received by a main control unit 110 (see FIG. 3) described later. As a result, the main control unit 110 can detect the setting of the document D on the document setting tray 21 based on the output of the document detection sensor 26, and can open and close the document conveying unit 102 </ b> A based on the output of the opening / closing detection sensor 27. Can be detected.

  The image reading unit 102B reads the document D and generates image data. Although not shown, the image reading unit 102B is provided with optical system members such as an exposure lamp, a mirror, a lens, and an image sensor. Then, the image reading unit 102B irradiates the document D passing through the conveyance reading contact glass 20a or the document D placed on the placement reading contact glass 20b, and receives the reflected light from the document D. Image data is generated by A / D converting the output value of the image sensor. Thus, printing can be performed based on the image data obtained by the reading operation of the document D by the image reading unit 102B. In addition, image data obtained by the reading operation of the document D by the image reading unit 102B can be stored.

  The paper feed unit 103 has a plurality of cassettes 31 for storing paper P, and supplies the paper P stored in the plurality of cassettes 31 to the paper transport unit 104. The paper feed unit 103 is provided with a pickup roller 32 that pulls out the stored paper P, a separation roller pair 33 for suppressing double feeding of the paper P, and the like.

  The paper feed unit 103 is provided with an attachment / detachment detection sensor 34 (see FIG. 3) for detecting attachment / detachment of the cassette 31. The attachment / detachment detection sensor 34 varies the output between when the cassette 31 is attached and when it is removed. The attachment / detachment detection sensor 34 corresponds to a detection unit that detects an operation on the image forming apparatus 100. The output of the attachment / detachment detection sensor 34 is received by a main control unit 110 (see FIG. 3) described later. Thereby, the main control unit 110 can detect the attachment / detachment of the cassette 31 based on the output of the attachment / detachment detection sensor 34.

  The paper transport unit 104 transports the paper P inside the apparatus. More specifically, the paper P supplied from the paper supply unit 103 passes through the image forming unit 105 and the fixing unit 106 in this order by the paper transport unit 104 and is guided to the discharge tray 41. The paper transport unit 104 is provided with a plurality of transport roller pairs 42 for transporting the paper P. Further, a registration roller pair 43 is also provided that waits for the paper P in front of the image forming unit 105 and sends the paper P to the image forming unit 105 in time.

  The image forming unit 105 forms a toner image based on the image data, and transfers the toner image onto the paper P. The image forming unit 105 includes a photosensitive drum 51, a charging device 52, an exposure device 53, a developing device 54, a transfer roller 55, a cleaning device 56, and the like.

  As a toner image forming process and a toner image transfer process, first, the photosensitive drum 51 is rotationally driven, and the surface of the photosensitive drum 51 is charged to a predetermined potential by the charging device 52. The exposure device 53 outputs a light beam L based on the image data, and scans and exposes the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. As a result, an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. Subsequently, the developing device 54 supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51 and develops it.

  The transfer roller 55 is in pressure contact with the surface of the photosensitive drum 51. Thereafter, the registration roller pair 43 measures the timing and causes the paper P to enter between the transfer roller 55 and the photosensitive drum 51. At this time, a predetermined voltage is applied to the transfer roller 55. As a result, the toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51 is transferred to the paper P. When the toner image transfer process is finished, the cleaning device 56 removes the toner remaining on the surface of the photosensitive drum 51.

  The fixing unit 106 heats and presses the toner image transferred onto the paper P to fix it. The fixing unit 106 includes a fixing roller 61 having a built-in heat source, and a pressure roller 62 that is pressed against the fixing roller 61. The paper P on which the toner image is transferred is heated and pressed by passing between the fixing roller 61 and the pressure roller 62. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper P, and the print job is completed. Then, the printed paper P is sent to the discharge tray 41 by the transport roller pair 42.

  Next, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 100 will be described with reference to FIG.

  The image forming apparatus 100 includes a main control unit 110 (corresponding to a control unit), and the main control unit 110 includes a CPU 111 that is a central processing unit, an image processing unit 112, a storage unit 113, and the like. The image processing unit 112 includes an ASIC dedicated to image processing, a memory, and the like, and performs various types of image processing such as enlargement / reduction, density conversion, and data format conversion on the image data. The storage unit 113 includes a ROM, a RAM, an HDD, and the like. Then, for example, the storage unit 113 stores programs and data necessary for job execution in the ROM, and expands the programs and data in the RAM.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the document conveying unit 102A, the image reading unit 102B, the paper feeding unit 103, the paper conveying unit 104, the image forming unit 105, and the fixing unit 106. Further, the main control unit 110 is connected to various detection units (such as the document detection sensor 26, the open / close detection sensor 27, and the attachment / detachment detection sensor 34) for detecting operations on the image forming apparatus 100. The main control unit 110 performs overall control, image processing control, drive control of a motor that rotates various rotating bodies, and the like based on the program and data stored in the storage unit 113. The main control unit 110 may be divided into a control unit that performs overall control and image processing control, and a control unit that performs drive control of a motor that rotates various rotating bodies.

  The operation panel 101 includes a display control unit 16 connected to the main control unit 110. The display control unit 16 includes a CPU and the like, and controls display operations. Specifically, when a soft key displayed on touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display unit 12) is pressed by the user, display control unit 16 receives the output of touch panel 11 and specifies the coordinates of the pressed position. For example, data such as a table indicating the correspondence between the output of the touch panel 11 and the coordinates of the pressed position is stored in the storage unit 17 (or the storage unit 113). The main control unit 110 may control the display operation.

  Further, the display control unit 16 reads out information stored in the storage unit 17 (or the storage unit 113) based on a key operation performed on the operation panel 101 by the user, and displays an appropriate screen on the touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display). Part 12). For example, as shown in FIG. 4, the display control unit 16 causes the touch panel 11 to display a function screen FS for accepting a change in a setting value related to a job function. FIG. 4 illustrates a copy job function screen FS as an example.

  The copy job function screen FS includes, for example, a plurality of function setting keys FK (to the setting keys) to which function names such as paper selection, reduction / enlargement, density, duplex / division, page aggregation, and sort / sorting are assigned. Equivalent). The function setting key FK displays the current setting value. The plurality of function setting keys FK are setting keys for allowing the user to select a function for changing the setting value. That is, when changing the setting value, the user presses the function setting key FK whose display name is the name of the function whose setting value is to be changed from among the plurality of function setting keys FK.

  For example, when the function setting key FK for paper selection is pressed by the user, the display control unit 16 sets the setting value input screen IS including a plurality of setting value input keys SK (corresponding to setting keys) as shown in FIG. Is displayed on the touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display unit 12). Thus, the user can change the set value by performing a key operation (an operation of pressing any one of the plurality of set value input keys SK) on the set value input screen IS. For example, when printing on A4 size paper P, the user presses the set value input key SK with the display name “cassette 1”.

  For example, when the reduction / enlargement function setting key FK is pressed by the user, the display control unit 16 sets the setting value including a plurality of setting value input keys SK (corresponding to setting keys) as shown in FIG. The input screen IS is displayed on the touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display unit 12). Thus, the user can change the set value by performing a key operation (an operation of pressing any one of the plurality of set value input keys SK) on the set value input screen IS. For example, when the user wants to print from A4 size to A3 size, the user presses the set value input key SK with the display name “141%”. Alternatively, the user can arbitrarily change the magnification by pressing either the plus key or the minus key as the set value input key SK.

  When the user finishes changing the setting value on the setting value input screen IS, the user presses the confirmation key DK (corresponding to the setting key). The display control unit 16 displays the function screen FS shown in FIG. 4 on the touch panel 11 (liquid crystal display unit 12) again when the user presses the confirmation key DK. At this time, the touch panel 11 changes the setting value displayed on the function setting key FK (displays the changed setting value). In addition, the main control unit 110 stores the changed set value in the storage unit 113.

  Thereafter, when the user presses the job start key JK or the user presses the start key 14 (see FIG. 2), the main control unit 110 executes the job based on the changed setting value. When the user presses the reset key 15 (see FIG. 2) after changing the set value, the main control unit 110 returns the changed set value to the default value.

  In the following description, setting keys such as the function setting key FK, the setting value input key SK, and the confirmation key DK are simply referred to as setting keys. The numeric keypad 13 is also called a setting key.

  Returning to FIG. 3, the main control unit 110 is connected to the communication unit 120. The communication unit 120 is connected to an external computer 200 via a network NT so that communication is possible, for example. Thus, printing can be performed based on the image data transmitted from the computer 200, and the image data obtained by the reading operation of the document D by the image reading unit 102B can be transmitted to the computer 200. Further, a modem or the like may be incorporated in the communication unit 120. In this case, fax communication can be performed with the external fax machine 300 via the network NT such as a telephone line.

  The communication unit 120 corresponds to a detection unit that detects an operation on the image forming apparatus 100. That is, when the communication unit 120 receives data from an external device such as the computer 200 or the fax machine 300, the main control unit 110 recognizes that an operation has been performed on the image forming apparatus 100.

  The main control unit 110 is connected to the power supply unit 130. The power supply unit 130 is connected to a commercial power supply and generates a voltage necessary for operating each unit of the apparatus. In the normal mode, the power supply unit 130 supplies power to all parts of each unit. On the other hand, when the power supply unit 130 shifts from the normal mode to the power saving mode, the power supply unit 130 supplies power to only a part of each unit of the apparatus and stops supplying power to other parts (job execution unit). .

  For example, the main control unit 110 counts the unused time that has passed without the device being used, and if the unused time exceeds a certain time, the main control unit 110 supplies power to the power supply unit 130 only to a part of each device unit. The normal mode is switched to the power saving mode. Alternatively, the main control unit 110 also switches from the normal mode when the operation panel 101 receives an instruction to shift from the normal mode to the power saving mode (for example, when a power saving key provided on the operation panel 101 is pressed). Shift to power saving mode. When the power supply unit 130 receives a signal indicating that the return condition from the power saving mode to the normal mode is satisfied from the return condition detection unit, the power supply unit 130 restarts the power supply to all parts of each unit of the device, and starts from the power saving mode. Return to normal mode.

  The power supply unit 130 receives a signal indicating that the return condition from the power saving mode to the normal mode is satisfied from the return condition detecting unit, so that power is supplied to the return condition detecting unit even in the power saving mode. Continue.

  An operation panel 101 is an example of a part corresponding to the return condition detection unit. For example, when the operation panel 101 is operated by the user in the power saving mode, the operation panel 101 transmits a signal indicating that the return condition from the power saving mode to the normal mode is satisfied to the power supply unit 130. When the power supply unit 130 receives a signal from the operation panel 101 in the power saving mode, the power supply unit 130 returns from the power saving mode to the normal mode.

  The communication unit 120 also functions as a return condition detection unit. That is, when the communication unit 120 receives data from an external device such as the computer 200 or the fax machine 300 in the power saving mode, the communication unit 120 supplies a signal indicating that the condition for returning from the power saving mode to the normal mode is satisfied. To the unit 130. When the power supply unit 130 receives a signal from the communication unit 120 in the power saving mode, the power supply unit 130 returns from the power saving mode to the normal mode.

  Further, the document detection sensor 26, the open / close detection sensor 27, the attachment / detachment detection sensor 34, and the like also function as a return condition detection unit. That is, in the power saving mode, the power supply unit 130 returns from the power saving mode to the normal mode when the document D is set on the document setting tray 21, the document conveying unit 102A is opened / closed, or the cassette 31 is attached / detached. Let

  Here, when the user operates the operation panel 101 to change the setting value related to the function of the job, the main control unit 110 performs the setting when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed or after the change. The auto-clearing time is detected without detection by the detection unit (the operation panel 101, the document detection sensor 26, the open / close detection sensor 27, the attachment / detachment detection sensor 34, the communication unit 120, etc.) from the time point when the job is completed based on the value. When the time has elapsed, auto-clear processing is executed to automatically change the changed set value to the initial set value (default set value). Note that the display control unit 16 may execute auto-clear processing.

  However, the auto-clear time (the time from when the key operation for changing the set value is performed or the time when the job is completed based on the set value after the change until the auto-clear process is executed) is relatively short. If it is fixed, there is a high risk that the auto-clear process will be executed while the user is changing the set value.

  Further, for example, the timing for shifting from the normal mode to the power saving mode may be set at the time when the auto-clear process is executed or when a certain time has passed since the auto-clear process was executed. In this case, if the auto-clear time is set to be fixedly long, the timing for shifting from the normal mode to the power saving mode is delayed (it takes time to shift to the power saving mode). For this reason, a power saving effect will fall.

  In order to eliminate such inconvenience, in the present embodiment, the main control unit 110 (or the display control unit 16) changes the setting value related to the job function by operating the operation panel 101 ( For example, when the user presses the function setting key FK shown in FIG. 4 or the setting value input key SK shown in FIG. 5 and FIG. Change the clear time. Specifically, when a key operation for changing the setting value is performed, the main control unit 110 counts the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed, and stores it in the storage unit 113. Then, the main control unit 110 sets the auto clear time so that the auto clear time becomes longer as the set key is pressed more frequently. For example, when setting the auto clear time, the main control unit 110 increases the auto clear time by a predetermined time each time the number of times the setting key is pressed when the set value is changed.

  As an example, as illustrated in FIG. 7, it is assumed that a key operation for changing a setting value is performed in order once in time points P1 to P3 after shifting from the power saving mode to the normal mode. That is, the set key is pressed three times when the set value is changed. In this case, for example, at the time point P1, the main control unit 110 multiplies a predetermined time T (for example, several seconds to several tens of seconds) by the number of times the setting key is pressed until the time point P1 (= 1 to several tens of seconds) (= 1 × T ) Is calculated. Alternatively, a time (= 1 × T + DT) obtained by adding the default value DT to the time is calculated. Then, main controller 110 sets the time calculated at time P1 as auto clear time AT. If there is no key operation after the time P1 until the auto clear time AT set at the time P1 elapses, the auto clear process is executed when the auto clear time AT elapses (the key performed at the time P1). The operation is reset and the set value becomes the initial set value).

  Here, it is assumed that after the time point P1, the second key operation is performed at a time point P2 before the auto clear time AT elapses. In this case, the main control unit 110 calculates a time (= 2 × T) obtained by multiplying the predetermined number of times T by the number of times the setting key is pressed (= 2) until the time P2. Alternatively, a time (= 2 × T + DT) obtained by adding the default value DT to the time is calculated. The main control unit 110 sets the time calculated at the time point P2 as the auto clear time AT. For this reason, the auto clear time AT set at time P2 is longer than the auto clear time AT set at time P1 by a predetermined time T. If there is no key operation after the time P2 until the auto clear time AT set at the time P2 elapses, the auto clear process is executed when the auto clear time AT elapses (performed at the time points P1 and P2). The key operation is reset and the set value becomes the initial set value).

  Here, it is assumed that after the time point P2, the third key operation is performed at a time point P3 before the auto clear time AT elapses. In this case, the main control unit 110 calculates a time (= 3 × T) obtained by multiplying a predetermined time T by the number of times the setting key is pressed (= 3) until the time P3 at the time P3. Alternatively, a time (= 3 × T + DT) obtained by adding the default value DT to the time is calculated. Then, main controller 110 sets the time calculated at time point P3 as auto clear time AT. For this reason, the auto clear time AT set at the time point P3 is longer than the auto clear time AT set at the time point P2 by the predetermined time T. In other words, the auto-clear time AT increases by the predetermined time T every time the set key is pressed once.

  Thereafter, it is assumed that the job is left without being executed. In this case, the auto clear process is executed when the auto clear time AT (3 × T or 3 × T + DT) set at the time point P3 has elapsed (the key operation performed at the time points P1 to P3 is reset, and the set value Is the default value).

  On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 8, it is assumed that the job is executed after the time P3 until the auto clear time AT set at the time P3 elapses. In this case, the auto-clear process is executed when the auto-clear time AT elapses from the job end time (the key operation performed at the time points P1 to P3 is reset and the set value becomes the initial set value).

  The method for setting the auto clear time AT is not particularly limited. For example, the auto-clear time AT may be increased by a predetermined time T each time the number of times the setting key is pressed increases in units of a plurality of times.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 9, it is assumed that a key operation for changing the set value is newly performed at the time P4 before the auto clear time AT set at the time P3 elapses from the job end time. In this case, the main control unit 110 sums the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed before the job is executed and the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed after the job is finished. Based on this, set the auto clear time. That is, at the time point P4, the main control unit 110 calculates a time (= 4 × T) obtained by multiplying the predetermined number of times T by the number of times the setting key is pressed until the time point P4 (= 4). Alternatively, a time (= 4 × T + DT) obtained by adding the default value DT to the time is calculated. Then, main controller 110 sets the time calculated at time point P4 as auto clear time AT. For this reason, the auto clear time AT set at time P4 is longer than the auto clear time AT set at time P3 by a predetermined time T.

  Then, after executing the auto-clear process, the main control unit 110 resets the number of times the setting key that has been counted most recently is pressed. Therefore, if the key operation for changing the set value is performed after executing the auto-clear process, the main control unit 110 counts the first press of the set key after executing the auto-clear process as the first time. .

  Alternatively, the main control unit 110 returns the changed setting value to the initial setting value when the reset key 15 of the operation panel 101 is pressed. Therefore, when the reset key 15 on the operation panel 101 is pressed, the main control unit 110 resets the number of presses of the setting key that has been counted most recently.

  For example, in the set value input screen IS shown in FIG. 6, the same set value is continuously changed by pressing either the plus key or the minus key as the set value input key SK. There is a case. When the key operation for continuously changing the same set value is performed in this way, the main control unit 110 sets the auto-clear time to be longer when the first set key is pressed among the continuous key operations. When the setting key is pressed thereafter, the auto-clearing time is not set to be long, and the auto-clearing time set when the first setting key is pressed is applied as it is.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 7, it is assumed that the same setting key is continuously pressed at time points P1 to P3. In this case, first, the main control unit 110 performs setting to increase the auto clear time AT at the time point P1. The main control unit 110 does not set the auto clear time AT to be longer at the subsequent time points P2 and P3, and applies the auto clear time AT set at the time point P1 as it is. That is, after the time point P3, the main control unit 110 executes auto-clear processing if no key operation is performed before the auto-clear time AT set at time point P1 elapses.

  Further, when the document D is set on the document setting tray 21 (when the document D is set on the document setting tray 21 based on the output of the document detection sensor 26), the main control unit 110 detects the document setting tray. The time point when the setting of the document D on 21 is detected is set as the starting point of the auto-clear time set most recently. Further, when the document conveying unit 102 is opened or closed (when opening / closing of the document conveying unit 102 is detected based on the output of the open / close detection sensor 27), the main control unit 110 detects the opening / closing of the document conveying unit 102. Is the starting point of the auto-clear time set most recently. After that, if the key operation for changing the setting value is performed again, the main control unit 110 further extends the auto-clear time set most recently in accordance with the number of times the setting key is pressed.

  For example, in the example shown in FIG. 7, it is assumed that the document D is set on the document set tray 21 after the time P3 and before the auto clear time AT set at the time P3 elapses. In this case, the main control unit 110 sets the time when the setting of the document D on the document setting tray 21 is detected as the starting point of the auto clear time AT set at the time P3. That is, the main control unit 110 performs the auto-clear process if no key operation is performed after the auto-clear time AT set at the time point P3 has elapsed since the time when the document D was set on the document set tray 21. Run.

  By the way, when a key operation for changing the set value is performed immediately after executing the auto-clear process, the user may have executed the auto-clear process before finishing the change of the set value. That is, it is considered that the timing for entering the auto clear process is too early. Therefore, in this case, the predetermined time (the time to be added to the auto-clear time every time the set key is pressed) may be set longer than the previous predetermined time.

  Also, when setting the auto clear time according to the number of times the setting key is pressed, if the user presses the setting key too many times, such as by mistaken key operation, the auto clear time may become too long. . Therefore, the storage unit 113 stores a predetermined upper limit time. Then, when the auto clear time exceeds the upper limit time, the main control unit 110 sets the upper limit time as the auto clear time. That is, the main control unit 110 sets the auto clear time so as not to exceed the upper limit time.

  Next, with reference to FIG. 10, the flow from setting the auto clear time to executing the auto clear process will be described.

  The flow in FIG. 10 starts when, for example, the mode is shifted from the power saving mode to the normal mode, when the auto clear process performed previously is completed, or when the reset key 15 of the operation panel 101 is pressed. . That is, at the start of the flow in FIG. 10, the setting value related to the job function is the initial setting value.

  In step S <b> 1, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not a key operation for changing a setting value has been performed on the operation panel 101. As a result of the determination, if the key operation for changing the setting value is performed, the process proceeds to step S2, and if the key operation for changing the setting value is not performed, the determination in step S1 is repeated.

  In step S2, the main control unit 110 sets a time for setting the auto-clear time based on the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed (for example, a time obtained by multiplying the number of pressing the setting key by a predetermined time, or , A time obtained by adding a default value to the time). However, if a key operation is performed to change the same set value continuously, the time calculated at the time when the first setting key is pressed among the consecutive key operations is used as the time when the subsequent setting key is pressed. Also apply.

  In step S3, main controller 110 determines whether or not the calculated time exceeds a predetermined upper limit time. As a result of the determination, if the calculation time exceeds the upper limit time, the process proceeds to step S4, and the main control unit 110 sets the upper limit time as the auto clear time. On the other hand, if the calculation time does not exceed the upper limit time, the process proceeds to step S5, and the main control unit 110 sets the calculation time as the auto clear time. After steps S4 and S5, the process proceeds to step S6.

  In step S6, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not a key operation for changing the set value has been performed before the auto-clear time has elapsed. As a result of the determination, if the key operation is performed before the auto-clear time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S2. On the other hand, if no key operation has been performed before the auto-clear time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S7.

  In step S7, the main control unit 110 determines whether a job execution instruction has been received before the auto-clear time has elapsed. As a result of the determination, if a job execution instruction is received before the auto-clear time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S8, and the main control unit 110 executes the received job.

  In step S9, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the job has ended. As a result of the determination, if the job is completed, the process proceeds to step S6. If the job is not completed, the determination in step S9 is repeated.

  In step S7, if a job execution instruction has not been received before the auto-clear time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S10. When the process proceeds to step S10, the main control unit 110 determines whether or not the auto-clear time has elapsed from the time when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed or the time when the job ends based on the changed setting value. To do. As a result of the determination, if the auto-clear time has elapsed, the process proceeds to step S11, and the main control unit 110 executes auto-clear processing. On the other hand, if the auto clear time has not elapsed, the process proceeds to step S6.

  The power supply unit 130 shifts from the normal mode to the power saving mode when the main control unit 110 executes the auto-clear process or when a certain time has elapsed after the main control unit 110 executes the auto-clear process. .

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the main control unit 110 (control unit) counts the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed, and the auto-clearing time becomes longer as the setting key is pressed more frequently. Set the auto clear time as follows.

  In other words, in the present embodiment, if the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed increases, the time from when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed until the auto-clear process is executed becomes longer. Become. Accordingly, when a user who wants to change a setting value that requires many key operations (the number of times the setting key is pressed) increases, the user temporarily leaves the image forming apparatus 100 while the setting value is being changed. Key for changing the setting value due to the execution of the auto-clear process even if it takes a long time from the most recent pressing of the setting key to the next pressing of the setting key. Occurrence of inconvenience that the operation has to be performed again from the beginning (many key operations have to be performed) is suppressed, which is convenient.

  In this embodiment, if the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed increases, the time from the end of the job based on the changed setting value to the execution of the auto clear process becomes longer. As a result, when a user who wants to execute a job with the same settings again after the job based on the changed setting value finishes, the auto clear process is executed in a short time after the job based on the changed setting value. Therefore, the occurrence of inconvenience that the key operation for changing the set value has to be performed again from the beginning (many key operations have to be performed) is suppressed, which is convenient.

  Furthermore, in this embodiment, if the number of times the setting key is pressed is small when the setting value is changed, the automatic operation is performed from the time when the key operation for changing the setting value is performed or the job end based on the setting value after the change. The time until the clear process is executed is shortened. That is, the auto clear time is not always set to be long. As a result, the previously changed setting value is stored as it is for a long time, and the job is erroneously executed with the setting value that the user did not intend (the previously changed setting value). The occurrence of inconvenience can be suppressed, and the convenience for the user is improved. Note that if only a relatively small number of key operations are required to change the setting value, even if the changed setting value returns to the initial setting value against the user's intention due to the execution of auto-clear processing, the setting value is relatively small. Since the setting value can be changed again by key operation, the burden on the user is small.

  Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, the main control unit 110 operates the key operation for changing the setting value during the period from the end of the job based on the changed setting value until the auto clear time elapses. If the setting key is pressed, the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed before job execution and the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed after the job is completed Set the auto clear time. As a result, if the user wants to change the previous setting value (the changed setting value) again after the job based on the changed setting value, the setting made again after the job based on the changed setting value is completed. Since the auto-clearing time becomes longer as the number of times the setting key is pressed when changing the value, the auto-clearing process is executed earlier, so the key operation for changing the setting value is repeated from the beginning. The occurrence of the inconvenience of having to perform many key operations must be suppressed, and convenience is good.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, after executing the auto-clear process, the main control unit 110 resets the number of times the setting key that has been counted most recently is pressed. This causes the inconvenience that the auto-clear time becomes too long due to the accumulated number of times the set key is pressed (it takes time before the next auto-clear process is executed). Can be suppressed.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, when setting the auto-clear time, the main control unit 110 increases the auto-clear time by a predetermined time every time the set key is pressed when the set value is changed. To do. Thereby, the auto-clear time can be easily set to a time according to the number of times the setting key is pressed when the set value is changed.

  Here, when a key operation for changing the set value is performed immediately after executing the auto-clear process, the user may have executed the auto-clear process before finishing the change of the set value. That is, it is considered that the timing for entering the auto clear process is too early. Therefore, in order to eliminate such inconvenience, a predetermined time (when a key operation for changing the set value is performed before the predetermined time has elapsed after executing the auto-clear process ( What is necessary is to make the time (added to the auto-clear time every time the set key is pressed) longer than the previous predetermined time.

  Further, in the present embodiment, as described above, when the key operation for continuously changing the same set value is performed, the main control unit 110 depresses the first setting key among the consecutive key operations. Then, the auto-clear time is set to be long, and when the setting key is pressed thereafter, the auto-clear time is not set to be long, and the auto-clear time set when the first setting key is pressed is applied as it is. As a result, the key operation itself for changing the setting value is easy (it is only necessary to press the same setting key), but the inconvenience that the auto clear time becomes too long is suppressed. can do.

  In the present embodiment, the storage unit 113 stores the upper limit time of the auto clear time, and the main control unit 110 sets the auto clear time so as not to exceed the upper limit time. As a result, even if the user makes a mistake in key operation for changing the setting value and the number of times the setting key is pressed becomes very large, the auto clear time does not become too long.

  In the present embodiment, when the main control unit 110 detects the setting of the document D on the document conveying unit 102A by the output of the document detection sensor 26, the main control unit 110 detects the time point when the setting of the document D on the document conveying unit 102A is detected. When the opening / closing detection sensor 27 detects the opening / closing of the document conveying unit 102A as the starting point of the most recently set auto-clear time, To do. Thus, from the user's point of view, the point of time when the original is set on the original conveying unit 102A or the time when the original conveying unit 102A is opened and closed becomes the starting point of the auto clear time, which is convenient.

  In the present embodiment, as described above, the power supply unit 130 supplies normal power to the job execution unit such as the image forming unit 105 and the fixing unit 106 in the normal mode, and the main control unit 110 performs auto clear processing. When a certain time has elapsed since the main control unit 110 executed the auto clear process, the normal mode is switched to the power saving mode, and the power supply to the job execution unit is stopped in the power saving mode. To do. Thereby, when the auto clear time is set to be short (when the timing for entering the auto clear process is early), the transition timing from the normal mode to the power saving mode is advanced, so that the power saving effect is enhanced.

  It should be thought that embodiment disclosed this time is an illustration and restrictive at no points. The scope of the present invention is shown not by the description of the above-described embodiment but by the scope of claims for patent, and further includes meanings equivalent to the scope of claims for patent and all modifications within the scope.

13 Numeric keypad (setting key)
26 Document detection sensor (detection unit)
27 Open / close detection sensor (detection unit)
34 Desorption sensor (detector)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Image forming apparatus 101 Operation panel 102A Document conveyance part (job execution part)
102B Image reading unit (job execution unit)
103 Paper Feed Unit (Job Execution Unit)
104 Paper transport unit (job execution unit)
105 Image forming unit (job execution unit)
106 Fixing unit (job execution unit)
110 Main control unit (control unit)
113 storage unit 120 communication unit (detection unit)
130 Power supply FK function setting key (setting key)
SK set value input key (setting key)

Claims (5)

A job execution unit that executes a job based on a set value;
An operation panel having a plurality of setting keys for changing setting values related to the job;
A detection unit for detecting an operation on the image forming apparatus;
A storage unit that stores predetermined initial setting values, and stores a changed setting value when a key operation for changing the setting value related to the job is performed;
When the auto-clear time has elapsed without the detection unit detecting an operation on the image forming apparatus from the time when the key operation for changing the setting value related to the job is performed or the time when the job is completed based on the changed setting value And a control unit for performing auto clear processing for automatically changing the set value after the change to the initial set value,
The control unit counts the press count of the setting key when changing the settings for the job, as the press count of the setting key is large, the setting the auto-clear time said as the auto-clear time is long ,
When a key operation for changing the setting value is newly performed during the period from the end of the job based on the setting value after the change until the auto-clear time elapses, the control unit The auto-clear time is set based on the total number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting key is changed and the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value is changed after the job is finished. An image forming apparatus. A job execution unit that executes a job based on a set value;
An operation panel having a plurality of setting keys for changing setting values related to the job;
A detection unit for detecting an operation on the image forming apparatus;
A storage unit that stores predetermined initial setting values, and stores a changed setting value when a key operation for changing the setting value related to the job is performed;
When the auto-clear time has elapsed without the detection unit detecting an operation on the image forming apparatus from the time when the key operation for changing the setting value related to the job is performed or the time when the job is completed based on the changed setting value And a control unit for performing auto clear processing for automatically changing the set value after the change to the initial set value,
The control unit counts the number of times the setting key is pressed when the setting value related to the job is changed, and sets the auto-clearing time so that the auto-clearing time becomes longer as the setting key is pressed more times. ,
The control unit, when setting the auto-clear time, increases the auto-clear time by a predetermined time each time the number of times the setting key is pressed when a set value is changed,
When the key operation for changing the set value is performed before the predetermined time has elapsed after executing the auto-clear process, the control unit sets the predetermined time to be greater than the previous predetermined time. An image forming apparatus characterized by being made longer.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit resets the number of pressings of the setting key that has been counted most recently after executing the auto-clear process. When a key operation for continuously changing the same set value is performed, the control unit performs a setting to increase the auto-clear time at the time of the first press of the setting key among the continuous key operations. The subsequent setting of the auto-clear time is not performed when the setting key is pressed, and the auto-clear time set when the setting key is first pressed is applied as it is. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3 . The storage unit stores an upper limit time of the auto clear time,
Wherein the control unit, the image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, characterized in that setting the auto-clear time so as not to exceed the upper limit time.

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