JP6065769B2 - Power display module, image processing apparatus, power monitoring control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a power display module, an image processing apparatus, and a power monitoring control program.

  A processing apparatus, for example, an image processing apparatus, has a function of shifting to a power saving mode in which unnecessary power is not supplied when not in use in order to reduce power consumption.

  Patent Document 1 discloses a printing apparatus that allows a user to determine whether an energy power consumption value is appropriate by displaying standard values, actual measurement values, and actual power consumption values of an international energy star program. Have been described.

  The International Energy Star Program is an international energy conservation system for office equipment implemented in seven countries around the world.

JP 2009-107141 A

  The present invention provides a power display module, an image processing device, and a power monitoring control program capable of notifying the factor of consumed power when displaying power saving energy compared to the case without this configuration. The purpose is to obtain.

  The invention according to claim 1 includes a processing device and a control unit that controls the processing device, and is intended for an apparatus main body that can shift to an energy saving state in which power supply from the main power supply unit is restricted. A power calculation unit that calculates a power value consumed by the control unit, an analysis unit that analyzes a power consumption factor of the power value calculated by the power calculation unit, and a power value calculated by the power calculation unit A display unit for displaying the power consumption factor analyzed by the analyzing means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the main power supply unit or the sub power supply unit is selected as a power supply source of the power calculation unit, the analysis unit, and the display unit. It was possible.

  The invention according to claim 3 is the invention according to claim 1 or claim 2, wherein the analyzing means accepts communication operation information related to a communication protocol executed by the control unit; Recognizing means for recognizing a power consumption factor based on the communication operation information received by the means.

  The invention according to claim 4 is the invention according to claim 3, wherein the communication operation information received by the receiving means is bit data received from different signal lines, and the recognition means specifies the signal line. The communication operation information is recognized based on a table stored by associating the identification code and the item of the communication operation information.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the invention according to the first or second aspect, the analysis unit obtains transition information in which the power value calculated by the power calculation unit changes over time. And a determining unit that determines a power consumption factor based on the transition information acquired by the acquiring unit.

The invention according to claim 6 is the invention according to claim 5, wherein the control unit is connected to a plurality of moving body detection means having different detectable distances of the moving bodies, and the plurality of moving body detections are detected. For the means, the approach of the moving body is recognized by inheriting the power supply in order from the longest distance to the shortest detectable distance of the moving body, and the determination means is in an energy saving state with the least power consumption. to the power value, the power value acquired by the acquisition unit counts the period is higher continues for a predetermined period of time, displaying the count value as a number of times power is supplied to a particular moving object detecting means.

A seventh aspect of the present invention is the storage battery according to the second aspect of the present invention, wherein the sub power source unit uses power generation to convert solar energy into electric power.

  The invention according to claim 8 includes a processing device and a control unit that controls the processing device, the device main body capable of shifting to an energy saving state in which power supply from the main power supply unit is restricted, and the device main body. A power calculation unit that calculates power consumption of the control unit at least in an energy saving state, an analysis unit that analyzes a power consumption factor that is a power consumption value calculated by the power calculation unit, and a consumption calculated by the power calculation unit An image processing apparatus including: a power display module including a display unit that displays a power value and a power consumption factor analyzed by the analysis unit.

  The invention according to claim 9 is directed to at least an apparatus main body including a processing device and a control unit that controls the processing device in a computer, and capable of shifting to an energy saving state in which power supply from the main power supply unit is restricted. Power monitoring control for calculating power consumption of the control unit in an energy saving state, analyzing a power consumption factor to be a calculated power consumption value, and displaying the calculated power consumption value and the analyzed power consumption factor It is a program.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify the factor of the consumed power when displaying the power being saved as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

  According to invention of Claim 2, the power consumption of an apparatus main body can be suppressed.

  According to the third aspect of the invention, it is possible to notify the power consumption factor that is difficult for the user to confirm.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to reduce the power consumption of the apparatus main body related to the output of the communication operation information as compared with the case where this configuration is not provided.

  According to the fifth aspect of the invention, it is possible to notify a power consumption factor that is difficult for the user to confirm.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to confirm the suitability of the activation status of the moving body detecting means.

  According to the invention described in claim 7, it is possible to reduce the power consumption in the energy saving state as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

  According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify the factor of the consumed power when displaying the power being saved as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify the factor of the consumed power when displaying the power being saved as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided.

1 is a schematic diagram of an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of the control system of the image processing apparatus which concerns on this Embodiment. 1 is a plan view showing an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment and its periphery. 1 is a perspective view showing an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment and its periphery. It is a perspective view of the cover member provided in the pillar part front surface which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a control block diagram of the power display module according to the present embodiment. (A)-(C) are the front views of the electric power display part according to the transition state of the electric current which concerns on this Embodiment (example of a human sensor return count display example). FIG. 5 is a conceptual diagram of a table in which an identification code of bit data stored in a nonvolatile memory of an arithmetic control unit and its items are associated with each other according to the present embodiment. It is a time-power characteristic figure concerning this embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the electric power value display control routine performed at the time of sleep mode transfer which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the message display control routine interrupted at the time of sleep mode transfer which concerns on this Embodiment.

  FIG. 1 shows an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

  The image processing apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 12 that forms an image on a recording sheet, an image reading unit 14 that reads an original image, and a facsimile communication control circuit 16. The image processing apparatus 10 includes a main controller 18, and controls the image forming unit 12, the image reading unit 14, and the facsimile communication control circuit 16 to temporarily store, for example, image data of a document image read by the image reading unit 14. Or the read image data is sent to the image forming unit 12 or the facsimile communication control circuit 16.

  A network communication network 20 such as the Internet is connected to the main controller 18, and a telephone network 22 is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 16. The main controller 18 is connected to a host computer via, for example, a network communication line network 20 and receives image data or performs facsimile reception and facsimile transmission using the telephone line network 22 via the facsimile communication control circuit 16. Has a role to play.

  The image reading unit 14 receives a document table for positioning the document, a scanning drive system that scans an image of the document placed on the document table and emits light, and light reflected or transmitted by scanning of the scan drive system. And a photoelectric conversion element such as a CCD for converting into an electrical signal.

  The image forming unit 12 includes a photoconductor. Around the photoconductor, a charging device that uniformly charges the photoconductor, a scanning exposure unit that scans a light beam based on image data, and the scanning exposure unit. An image developing unit that develops the electrostatic latent image formed by scanning exposure, a transfer unit that transfers the developed image on the photoreceptor to a recording sheet, and a surface of the photoreceptor after the transfer are cleaned. And a cleaning unit. A fixing unit for fixing the image on the recording sheet after transfer is provided on the recording sheet conveyance path.

  An outlet 26 is attached to the tip of the input power line 24 in the image processing apparatus 10, and the image processing apparatus 10 is inserted into the wiring plate 32 of the commercial power supply 31 wired up to the wall surface W. The power supply is supplied from the commercial power source 31. In the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, a power supply mode that receives power supply from the commercial power supply 31 and a sleep mode (including power supply 0w) that minimizes the power supply from the commercial power supply 31 are included. Control to shift between them is executed. “W” is a unit symbol of the watt of the power value watt (hereinafter the same).

(Control system hardware configuration of image processing apparatus)
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram of the hardware configuration of the control system of the image processing apparatus 10.

  The network communication network 20 is connected to the main controller 18 of the image processing apparatus 10. The network circuit 20 is connected to a PC (terminal device) 29 that can be a transmission source of image data.

  The main controller 18 is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 16, the image reading unit 14, the image forming unit 12, the UI touch panel 40, and the IC card reader / writer 58 via buses 33A to 33E such as a data bus and a control bus. Has been. That is, each processing unit of the image processing apparatus 10 is controlled mainly by the main controller 18. Note that a UI touch panel backlight unit 40BL is attached to the UI touch panel 40.

  In addition, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a power supply device 42 and is connected to the main controller 18 by a signal harness 43.

  The power supply device 42 is supplied with power from the commercial power supply 31 via the input power supply line 24.

  In the power supply device 42, a power supply line 35A that supplies power independently to the main controller 18, the facsimile communication control circuit 16, the image reading unit 14, the image forming unit 12, the UI touch panel 40, and the IC card reader / writer 58. -35E are provided. For this reason, the main controller 18 individually supplies power to or cuts off power for each operation target (hereinafter also referred to as “processing unit”, “device”, “module”, etc.), so-called partial power saving. Control is possible. Note that partial power saving in units of processing units is an example, and the processing units may be classified into several groups, and power saving control may be performed in units of groups.

  In addition, two first human sensors 28 and a second human sensor 30 are connected to the main controller 18, and there are moving bodies around the image processing apparatus 10, and whether or not there is a person including mainly a user. Is monitoring.

  By the way, the partial power saving control includes the main controller 18 as an object, and when all the processing units are saved, the monitoring control unit 18A provided in the main controller 18 receives the minimum necessary power, The power supply to other control devices is cut off (sometimes referred to as “power saving mode” or “sleep mode”).

  The monitoring control unit 18A may include, for example, an IC chip called an ASIC that stores an operation program by itself and is processed by the operation program, such as a CPU, a RAM, and a ROM.

  In the monitoring during power saving, the monitoring control unit 18A, for example, when a print request is received from the communication line detection unit or a FAX reception request is received from the FAX line detection unit, Supply power.

  In this embodiment, the power supply source of the monitoring control unit 18A is the commercial power supply 31, but the power generated by the solar panel, the power supply unit having a power storage function such as a battery and a capacitor, and the regenerative energy is generated. It is good also considering the generator etc. which do as an electric power supply source.

(Function of human sensor)
The human sensor has a function of shortening the time until the image processing apparatus 10 can perform processing from the sleep mode (for example, input operation using the UI touch panel 40 is possible).

  In the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are installed as human sensors, and in the sleep mode, the first human sensor before the user presses the power saving release button. 28, It detected with the 2nd human sensor 30 and restarted electric power supply at an early stage so that a user could use it early.

  In the present embodiment, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are connected to the main controller 18. The detection critical distance of the first human sensor 28 is set longer than the detection critical distance of the second human sensor 30 (see the first region F and the second region N in FIGS. 3 and 4). ).

  Further, in the sleep mode, the first human sensor 28 receives the supply of power from the monitoring control unit 18A and monitors the movement of the moving body around the image processing apparatus 10. In the first human sensor 28, when a moving body is detected, cooperative control is performed such that supply of power to the second human sensor 30 in the power cut-off state is started during the sleep mode. Not only the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, but also human sensors with different detection distances are added to supply power so that the detection is successively carried out from the far detection to the close detection. You may do it.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 10 is provided with a power saving control button (not shown), and a user can manually perform a power saving instruction or cancel power saving.

  That is, in this embodiment, the power saving control button and the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, but the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor. It is also possible to perform all monitoring at 30.

  The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are “human feeling”, but this is a proper noun according to the present embodiment, and at least if a person can sense (detect) it. In other words, it also includes sensing (detection) of moving objects other than humans. Therefore, in the following description, the person to be detected by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 may be referred to as “person”, but an object (wheelchair, cane, etc.) integrated with the person, or the future Specifically, a robot or the like that executes on behalf of a person is also within the detection target range. On the other hand, when there is a special sensor that can be identified and identified as a person, the special sensor can be applied. Hereinafter, a moving body, a person, a user, and the like are treated as synonymous as objects to be detected by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, and are distinguished as necessary.

"First human sensor 28"
The specification of the first human sensor 28 according to the present embodiment is to detect the movement of the moving body around the image processing apparatus 10 (for example, in the range of 0 m to 5 m). In this case, an infrared sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element is representative (pyroelectric sensor). In the present embodiment, a pyroelectric sensor is applied as the first human sensor 28. For example, when the amount of temperature change in the detection range exceeds a threshold value in advance, the binary signal that is the output signal is inverted.

  The greatest feature of the sensor using the pyroelectric effect of the pyroelectric element applied to the first human sensor 28 is that the detection area is wide. Further, in order to sense the movement of the moving body, if the person is stationary within the detection region, the presence of the person is not detected because there is no temperature change. For example, when a high-level signal is output when a person moves, the signal becomes a low-level signal when a person within the detection range stops.

  Note that “still” in the present embodiment naturally includes complete stillness such as a still image taken with a still camera or the like. For example, a person stops before the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of operation. Shall be included. Accordingly, a case where a predetermined range of fine movement (such as movement accompanying breathing) or movement of a limb, neck, or the like is set as a stationary category.

  However, if a person performs a stretching exercise or the like in front of the image processing apparatus 10 while waiting for processing such as image formation or image reading, the first human sensor 28 detects the presence of the person. In some cases.

  Therefore, instead of defining the “still” and setting a threshold value for motion detection by the first human sensor 28, the threshold value is set relatively roughly and standardly, and the environment ( You may make it depend on the detection state of the said 1st human sensitive sensor 28 based on temperature, humidity, etc.). That is, a person is moving when the first human sensor 28 outputs one of the binary signals (for example, a high level signal) experimentally or statistically at the device installation location. When a person is present in the detection area of the second first human sensor 28 and another one of the binary signals (for example, a low level signal) is output, What is necessary is just to set the threshold value which carries out.

"Second human sensor 30"
On the other hand, the specification of the second human sensor 30 according to the present embodiment is applied to detect the presence / absence (presence / absence) of a moving body. The sensor applied to the second human sensor 30 is typically a reflective sensor having a light projecting part and a light receiving part (reflective sensor). Note that the light projecting unit and the light receiving unit may be separated.

  The greatest feature of the reflective sensor or the like applied to the second human sensor 30 is to reliably detect the presence or absence of a moving body by blocking / not blocking light entering the light receiving unit. In addition, since the amount of light incident on the light receiving unit is limited by the amount of light projected from the light projecting unit, a relatively short distance is the detection region.

  If the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 can achieve the following functions, the first human sensor 28 may be a pyroelectric sensor or a second human sensor. The human sensor 30 is not limited to a reflective sensor.

  Here, in the present embodiment, the maximum detection range (for example, the first region F and the second region N in FIGS. 3 and 4) by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It was set. In this example, the two regions overlap, but the regions do not necessarily overlap each other, and the outer peripheral boundary line (detection critical distance) of the first region F is the outer peripheral boundary line (detection critical distance) of the second region N. What is necessary is just to set so that it may become longer than distance.

  That is, the first region F in FIGS. 3 and 4 (which may be simply referred to as “region F”), which is a relatively far detection region, is a detection region by the first human sensor 28 and is relatively It has a function as a remote moving body detection means. Also, the second region N (referred to simply as “region N”) in FIGS. 3 and 4, which is a relatively close detection region, is a detection region by the second human sensor 30. It has a function as a moving body detection means in the vicinity.

The detection area of the first human sensor 28 (see the first area F in FIGS. 3 and 4) depends on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed, but as a guide, the detection critical distance (most The distant position) is preferably about 0.3 to 0.9 m and the default is about 0.6 m. The detection critical distance may be adjustable in the range of 0.3 to 0.9 m. As an adjustment mechanism, a three-stage adjustment of 0.3 m, 0.6 m, and 0.9 m may be used, or a stepless adjustment may be used.

  On the other hand, the detection area of the second human sensor 30 (see the second area N in FIGS. 3 and 4) is a range in which the UI touch panel 216 and hard keys of the image processing apparatus 10 can be operated. The detection critical distance (the farthest position) is preferably about 0.2 to 0.5 m. Of course, after setting both, the critical point of the first human sensor 28 is set to be farther than the critical point of the second human sensor 30.

  In addition, the standard of the detection range set to the said 1st human sensor 28 and the 2nd human sensor 30 is an example, and is not limited to the said numerical value.

(Configuration of the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30 and the surroundings)
As shown in FIG. 1, the image processing apparatus 10 includes an image reading apparatus 14, an image forming apparatus 12, and the like covered with a casing, and includes a first human sensor 28 (including a second human sensor 30). ) Is attached to the vertically long pillar portion 50 in the casing. The pillar unit 50 is provided in a columnar shape at a portion that mainly connects the upper housing that covers the image reading device 12 and the lower housing that mainly covers the image forming device 12, and the inside of the pillar portion 50 is a recording paper conveyance system or the like ( (Not shown) is assembled. FIG. 5 is an enlarged view of the pillar portion 50.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a vertically long rectangular cover member 52 that covers the pillar portion 50 with a design element is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion 50.

  As shown in FIG. 5, a vertically long slit hole 55 is provided at the upper end portion of the cover member 52, and the light receiving portion 30 </ b> IN of the second human sensor 30 is formed on the back side of the slit hole 55. A light projecting unit 30OUT is arranged. Although not shown, a light control member having a relatively low transmittance (a transmittance of 50% or less) is fitted in the slit hole 55. This concealing member is provided to make it difficult to see the second human sensor 30 from the outside and to secure the above-described design element. Basically, the detection function of the second human sensor 30 is provided. Is maintained.

  A gap is provided between the lower surface of the cover member 52 and the upper surface of the lower housing. Further, the lower end portion of the cover member 52 has a so-called chamfered shape, and a through hole 57 is provided in the chamfered surface.

  A first human sensor 28 is provided on the back side of the through hole 57 (the back side of the cover member 52). For this reason, the through hole 57 has a role as a monitoring window for detecting the moving body by the first human sensor 28. Hereinafter, the through hole 57 may be referred to as a monitoring window 57.

  Here, since the monitoring window 57 is formed in the chamfered portion 52A, the monitoring window 57 is less visible from the front of the apparatus than the front surface, and does not impair the design elements of the cover member 52. . In addition, a dimming member having a relatively low transmittance (transmittance of 50% or less) may be fitted into the monitoring window 57.

(Sensor power supply control)
In the present embodiment, the second human sensor 30 is not always supplied with power. In the second human sensor 30, the moving body (user) enters the first area F of FIG. 3 managed by the first human sensor 28 that is supplied with power from the monitoring controller 18A even in the sleep mode. When the mobile body (user) enters the second area N in FIG. 3 under the jurisdiction of the second human sensor 30, each processing unit starts operating. Is instructed to start from the sleep mode to the standby mode.

  That is, two human sensors (the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30) having different detection areas cooperate with each other to receive the minimum necessary power supply.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the relationship between the moving object (user 60) and the image processing apparatus 10 is roughly divided into three forms. In the first form, the person uses the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of use. A form approaching the operable position (see A-line trend (A pattern) in FIG. 3), the second form is a form in which a person approaches the operable position, although the processing device is not intended for use. (Refer to the trend (B pattern) of B line arrow in FIG. 3), the third form does not allow the person to approach the operable position of the processing apparatus, but may move to the first form or the second form. It is the form (refer the trend (C pattern) of C line arrow view of FIG. 3) which is made to a certain distance.

  In the present embodiment, based on the detection information by the first human sensor 28 and the detection information by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, the trend (from the A pattern shown in FIG. The power supply timing and power cutoff timing of the second human sensor 30 are controlled in accordance with the movement pattern of the person based on the C pattern.

(Configuration related to power visualization)
In the present embodiment, in the sleep mode in which the power supply is cut off according to the processing status in the processing unit, the first human sensor 28 and the monitoring control for monitoring the output signal from the first human sensor 28. Power is supplied to the unit 18A. In other words, the power is not supplied to the area not related to the monitoring control unit 18A in the main controller 18, and the function is stopped.

  In this case, when the user or the like sees the image processing apparatus 10 from the outside, even if it can be recognized that the backlight unit 40BL of the UI touch panel 40 is turned off, any of the inside (the power consuming device including the processing unit) can be recognized. I don't know how much power is consumed.

  Therefore, in the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the power display module 70 that displays the power consumption value during the sleep mode is provided. For example, as shown in FIG. 1, the power display module 70 is provided in the UI touch panel 40, and includes a power display unit 72 that is separate from the UI touch panel 40.

  By the way, the power consumption value during the sleep mode in the image processing apparatus 10 may be notified to the user in advance using a catalog or the like (hereinafter, sometimes referred to as “publicity power value”). The user confirms whether or not it is the publicity power value by the power value displayed on the power display module 70. However, due to some power consumption factors, even if the user is in the sleep mode, the publicity power It may not be a value.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, when the power value is displayed on the power display module 70, the message indicating the power consumption factors 1 to 3 is displayed together when the power value does not become the publicity power value.

  There are several types of sleep modes. If the power consumption of the normal sleep mode is, for example, 5 w to 10 w, the publicity power value indicates the sleep mode (CPU off mode) with the lowest power consumption. It shall be assumed (for example, 1w as public information power value).

(Power consumption factor 1)
In the setting of the image processing apparatus 10, if the following setting is made as a so-called default, the main controller 18 does not enter the CPU off mode.
“Setting 1” When any one of various setting enable (SMB, ARP, SNMP, SOAP, etc.) is connected to the PC 29 by USB “Setting 2” When an optional device is added to the parallel port In the following, various setting enables exemplified in “Setting 1” of the power consumption factor 1 are defined.

(1) SMB (server message block)
A protocol for sharing files and printers.

(2) ARP (address resolution protocol)
This is a protocol for obtaining a MAC address from a destination IP address.

(3) SNMP (simple network management protocol)
This is a protocol for monitoring and controlling communication devices connected to a network.

(4) SOAP (simple object access protocol)
This is a protocol for calling data and services on other PCs (Power consumption factor 2)
When a signal related to a communication protocol is input to the main controller 18 via the network communication network 20 (net access), the main controller 18 must respond (Ping, hard disk access for acquiring MC information). In order to recover for a certain period, power is required, and the main controller 18 does not enter the CPU off mode.

  The Ping in the power consumption factor 2 is a command for specifying and checking whether the IP exists on the network. This corresponds to a protocol for confirming the state between network connection devices by ICMP (Internet Control Message Protocol).

(Power consumption factor 3)
From the viewpoint of the user, even if there is no change in appearance with respect to the CPU off mode, when the power consumption changes (increases) due to an external power consumption factor (power increase factor), the main controller 18 enters the CPU off mode. Do not fit.

  This power consumption factor (power increase factor) is the monitoring by the first human sensor 28. When a moving object is detected, the power consumption factor (power increase factor) is determined for a certain time (for example, 30 seconds) regardless of whether or not the user is detected. This refers to the case where power is supplied to the second human sensor 30 (activation of the second human sensor 30).

  The power increase factor includes other external power increase factors such as when the cooling fan operates when the in-machine temperature exceeds a threshold value in the cooling mode of the image forming unit 12.

  When the power value is displayed on the power display module 70, for example, when the power consumption factor 1 to 3 does not become the publicity power value, a message indicating the power consumption factor 1 to 3 is also displayed.

  For example, the message is as follows.

(1) Power consumption factor 1 ... “Because communication is permitted by default, it will not enter CPU off mode”
(2) Power consumption factor 2 “Communication network is accessing”
(3) Power consumption factor 3 ... “Return by human sensor ○ times”, “Cooling fan in operation”
7A to 7C show an example in which the number of return times by the human sensor of the power consumption factor 3 is displayed. In FIG. 7B, the state of returning is shown, but the reason why it has not been counted as a number of times (still 20 times) is that the user may actually be detected, You may count up at the rising edge.

(Configuration of power display module 70)
FIG. 6 shows a control block diagram of the power calculation unit 74.

  The power display module 70 includes a power calculation unit 74, a current measurement unit 76, and a power display unit 72.

  Here, the power calculation unit 74 includes a power supply switching unit 94 and can receive power from the power supply device 42 or the auxiliary power supply device 78. For example, the auxiliary power supply 78 is used as a power source of the power display module 70 when the power of the power supply 42 is not used in the CPU off mode.

  That is, the auxiliary power supply device 78 in the present embodiment is a solar battery (solar cell), and is configured to not consume commercial power during the sleep mode by the switching control in the power supply switching unit 94. The auxiliary power supply 78 is not limited to the power based on the power generation function of the solar battery, but may be a power supply unit having a power storage function such as a dry battery or a capacitor.

  In addition, although the power supply device 42 or the auxiliary power supply device 78 is switched and used as the power source of the power display module 70, either the power supply device 42 or the auxiliary power supply device 78 may be used.

  A measurement terminal 76 </ b> A is connected to the current measurement unit 76. The measurement terminal 76 </ b> A sends a signal corresponding to the current to the current measurement unit 76 by detecting a magnetic field generated in the input power line 24 connected to the outlet 26.

  The power calculation unit 74 includes a calculation control unit 80. The arithmetic control unit 80 includes a CPU 82, a non-volatile memory 84, a current value monitoring unit 86, a bit data analysis unit 87, a time measurement unit 88, a current transition analysis unit 89, an I / O 90, and a data bus and a control bus that interconnect these components. Or the like.

  A power display unit 72 and a current measurement unit 76 are connected to the I / O 90.

  The current value monitoring unit 86 of the calculation control unit 80 calculates power based on a signal (current measurement value) input from the current measurement unit 76.

  The CPU 82 grasps the power calculation result in the current value monitoring unit 86 and displays the power value on the power display unit 72 (see FIG. 7).

  Further, the main controller 18 and the signal line harness 91 are connected to the I / O 90. The signal line harness 91 is an aggregate of a plurality of signal lines, and each signal line outputs bit data (H signal / L signal) from the main controller 18 to the I / O 90. The signal line harness 91 has a role of transmitting information on (1) power consumption factor 1 and (2) power consumption factor 2 described above.

  That is, for each signal line, an item to be (1) power consumption factor 1 and (2) power consumption factor 2 is assigned. For example, in the case of an H signal, the item is executed, and in the case of an L signal, the item of the item is assigned. Not executed.

  Here, in the nonvolatile memory 84, an identification code-item table 93 (see FIG. 8) in which the identification code of each signal line of the signal line harness 91 is associated with the items that become the power consumption factor 1 and the power consumption factor 2 in advance. Is remembered.

(Monitoring power consumption factors 1 and 2)
The bit data analysis unit 87 recognizes the state of bit data (H signal / L signal) input from each signal line of the signal line harness 91 of the main controller 18 based on execution power calculation control at the time of sleep mode transition by the CPU 82. To do. Further, the bit data analysis unit 87 determines an item based on the identification code-item table 93 shown in FIG.

  The items are items related to the presence / absence of transition to the sleep mode (energy saving transition), items related to “setting 1” and “setting 2” of the power consumption factor 1, and items related to the power consumption factor 2.

  The CPU 82 checks the bit data based on the identification code-item table 93 in the bit data analysis unit 87, thereby grasping the process being executed in the main controller 18 and controlling the power display unit 72 to control the power. A message is displayed according to the grasped process together with the value (see FIG. 7).

(Monitoring power consumption factor 3)
The current transition analysis unit 89 recognizes the transition state of the current value measured by the current measurement unit 76 based on the execution power calculation control during sleep mode transition by the CPU 82 (see FIG. 9), and determines items related to the power factor 3.

  For example, a pulse waveform indicating that the current value rises for 30 seconds (about 5 w) with respect to the CPU off mode (1 w) is counted. This count value is the number of times the second human sensor 30 is activated, and returning to 1w after the current rise (pulse waveform) is an unnecessary activation.

  In the CPU 82, the power transition characteristic based on the current transition analysis in the current transition analysis unit 89 is grasped, so that the activation state of the second human sensor 30 is mainly grasped, and the power display unit 72 is controlled to control the power value. At the same time, a message is displayed according to the grasped process (see FIG. 7).

  Note that the arithmetic control unit 80 mainly calculates the power when shifting to the sleep mode and displays it on the power display unit 72. However, other than the sleep mode (for example, the standby mode that is waiting for the process or the execution of the process) It is also possible to calculate power and display it on the power display unit 72 even in a running mode or the like.

  Hereinafter, the operation of the present embodiment will be described.

(Example of mode transition of power supply control of image processing apparatus 10)
If the image processing apparatus 10 is not processed, the operation state is the sleep mode. During the sleep mode, the minimum necessary power is supplied to the monitoring control unit 18A and the first human sensor 28, and the movement (entrance) of the moving body is monitored in the first region F of FIGS. ing. When a moving body is detected in the first area F, power supply to the second human sensor 30 is started, and the entry of the moving body (user) is monitored in the second area N of FIGS. 3 and 4. .

  Here, if there is a startup opportunity (acquisition of authentication information from the IC card by the IC card reader / writer 58, user detection by the second human sensor 30, or operation of the power saving control button, etc.), the operation state is warmed up. Transition to (warm-up operation) mode.

  Note that a mode in which the power supply amount is increased more than the power supply in the original sleep mode by activation of the main controller 18 and the UI touch panel 40 may be provided after the startup trigger. This mode may still be defined as a sleep mode or as another mode.

  Further, after the start-up opportunity, for example, the mode returns to a mode in which a job can be selected (activation of the UI touch panel 40 (power supply)), which device is activated depending on the selected job, and the job type is In the case of image reading or the like, there is a case where the image forming unit 12 does not start up and does not warm up (partial power saving control).

  The warm-up mode is a warm-up operation for quickly bringing the image processing apparatus 10 (mainly the temperature of the fixing unit of the image forming unit 12) into a processable state, and has the maximum power consumption in each mode. For example, in this embodiment, an IH heater is applied as a heater in the fixing unit. As a comparative example, the warm-up mode time is relatively shorter than that of a heater using a halogen lamp. An IH heater and a halogen lamp can be used in combination. Note that the warm-up operation is a mode that consumes the most power (for example, 1200 w).

  When the warm-up mode ends, the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the standby mode.

  The standby mode is literally a “preparation is complete in preparation” mode, and the image processing apparatus 10 is ready to execute an image processing operation.

  For this reason, when there is a job execution operation as a key input, the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 shifts to the running mode, and image processing based on the instructed job is executed.

  When the image processing is completed (when a plurality of continuous jobs are waiting, when all the continuous jobs are completed), the operation state of the image processing apparatus 10 is shifted to the standby mode by the standby trigger. Note that, after image processing, timing by a timer function may be started, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, a standby trigger may be output to shift to the standby mode.

  If there is a job execution instruction during the standby mode, the mode is shifted to the running mode again, and when the trigger for falling is detected or a predetermined time has elapsed, the mode is shifted to the sleep mode. The trigger for falling can be, for example, a signal based on a detection result by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, a timer function, or a combination thereof.

  Further, the transition of the mode state in the actual operation in the image processing apparatus 10 does not proceed in time series as shown in a single timing chart. For example, the process may be stopped in the standby mode after the warm-up mode and the mode may be shifted to the sleep mode.

  As described above, the image processing apparatus 10 of the present embodiment shifts between modes, and the power consumed for each mode is different.

  Further, in the present embodiment, power supply control is performed for each device. For example, when an image reading job is instructed from the sleep mode, the image forming unit 12 is not supplied with power and the image is not supplied. So-called partial power saving such as supplying power to the reading unit 14 is possible.

(Monitoring during sleep mode)
Here, in the present embodiment, during the sleep mode, basically, the first human sensor 28 and the monitoring control unit 18A receive power supply and monitor the approaching state of the moving body. In other words, power is not supplied to the second human sensor 30. This monitoring region corresponds to the first region F in FIGS. 3 and 4, and the mobile object is analyzed by analysis (change amount) of the electric signal based on infrared rays input to the detection unit of the first human sensor 28. The presence or absence of is detected.

  When a moving body is detected by the first human sensor 28 (moving body detection in the first region F in FIGS. 3 and 4), power supply to the second human sensor 30 is started.

(Visualization of power value during sleep mode)
In the present embodiment, a power display module 70 for displaying the power consumption of the image processing apparatus 10 is provided. For this reason, the user can grasp the power consumption of the image processing apparatus 10 visually. In the image processing apparatus 10, the power consumption in a state other than the sleep mode is also important. In this case, the power display module 70 can be supplied with power from the main power supply 42, and thus is different from a general power display. There is no.

  On the other hand, in the sleep mode described above, power supply from the main power supply 42 is limited to the first human sensor 28 and the monitoring control unit 18A.

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, a sub power source 78 is provided, and the power display module 70 is operated by the power supplied from the sub power source 78, and in particular, the power value in the sleep mode is calculated and displayed. .

(Power calculation control processing mode)
FIG. 10 is a control flowchart for explaining an example of the flow of power calculation control executed at the time of transition to the sleep mode.

  First, in step 114, the variable (number of power calculations) N is set to 1, and then the process proceeds to step 116 where the power supply source of the power measurement module 70 is switched from the main power supply 42 to the sub power supply 78.

  In the next step 118, the Nth power value calculation process is executed, the power value is calculated, and the routine proceeds to step 120.

  In step 120, the calculated power value is stored in the nonvolatile memory 84, and then the process proceeds to step 122, where the calculated power value is displayed on the power display unit 72, and the process proceeds to step 124. As a result, the power value displayed on the power display unit 72 is updated to the latest power value.

  In step 124, it is determined whether the variable N is 1, that is, whether or not the calculation is the first time. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 132, and a predetermined time (in this example, 1 If the determination in step 132 is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 134, increments the variable N (N ← N + 1), returns to step 118, and repeats the above steps. .

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 124, the process proceeds to step 126, the previous (N−1) th power value is read, then the process proceeds to step 128, and this time (N times) and the previous (N−). The difference Δ between the power values of one time is calculated, and the process proceeds to step 130.

  In step 130, it is determined whether or not the difference Δ is greater than or equal to a threshold value, that is, whether or not the rate of change is greater than a predetermined level. If an affirmative determination is made, it is determined that the power value still varies. Then, the process proceeds to step 132 to continue sampling. In step 132, it is determined whether or not a fixed time (here, for example, 1 second) has elapsed by the time count of the time measuring unit 88. If an affirmative determination is made in step 132, the routine proceeds to step 134, where the variable N Is incremented (N ← N + 1), the process returns to step 118, and the above steps are repeated.

  On the other hand, if a negative determination is made in step 130, it is determined that the power value is stable, and the process proceeds to step 136 to end the sampling. In step 136, based on the power of the sub power supply 78, it is determined whether or not it is possible to continue displaying the power value on the power display unit 72. If the determination is affirmative, the process proceeds to step 138 to determine whether the sleep mode is in progress. Is judged. If an affirmative determination is made in step 138, the process returns to step 136, and step 136 and step 138 are repeated until a negative determination is made in step 136 or step 138.

  If a negative determination is made in step 136 or step 138, the process proceeds to step 140 to end the power display, and then in step 142, the sub power source 78 is switched to the main power source 42, and this routine ends.

  If the sub power source 78 is switched to the main power source 42 in the negative determination in step 136, power is not supplied to the power display module 70 and the function is stopped while the sleep mode is continued. However, only the power sufficient for displaying the power value on the power display unit 72 may be supplied from the main power source 42 to the power display module 70 by the user's selection or the like.

(Message display control)
Here, in the present embodiment, in conjunction with displaying the power value on the power display unit 72, information related to the factor of consumed power is displayed as a message. In other words, for example, the power value displayed on the power display unit 72 notifies the approximate power value (publicity power value) based on the state of the image processing apparatus 10 in the catalog or the like, thereby suppressing power consumption. There is a case to appeal. This appeal is basically a so-called best mode, and power may rise temporarily if there is a response of a communication protocol or the like, contrary to the intention of the image processing apparatus 10 side.

  Thus, in the present embodiment, the power value is displayed on the power display unit 72, and the power consumption factor (see the power consumption factors 1 to 3 described above) is displayed as a message, thereby informing the user of the power consumption factor. I did it.

  FIG. 11 is a control flowchart for controlling message display, which is a routine that is interrupted at the time of execution at the time of transition to the sleep mode of FIG.

  In step 150, the power value stored in step 120 of FIG. 10 is read, and then the process proceeds to step 152 to determine whether there is a power increase waveform (for example, a pulse waveform).

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 152, it is determined whether or not the waveform (pulse waveform) that has increased in power by shifting to step 154 has continued for a certain period or longer (whether the pulse width is more than a certain value).

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 154, the detected power increase waveform is determined to be due to the activation of the second human sensor 30 (power consumption factor 3), and the process proceeds to step 156. A counter indicating that the second human sensor 30 has been activated (second human sensor activation counter) is incremented, and then the process proceeds to step 158 to display the count number of the counter (see FIG. 7). The process proceeds to step 160.

  By viewing the count value, the user can determine whether or not the second human sensor 30 is activated unnecessarily. Note that the count value may be reset or accumulated every time the sleep mode is entered.

  If a negative determination is made in step 152 or a negative determination is made in step 154, the process proceeds to step 160.

  In the next step 160, the state (H signal / L signal) of each signal line of the signal harness 91 is confirmed, and then the process proceeds to step 162 to determine whether there is a signal line whose bit data has changed. . If the determination at step 162 is negative, this routine ends.

  If an affirmative determination is made in step 162, the process proceeds to step 164, the identification code-item table 93 (see FIG. 8) is read from the nonvolatile memory 84, and then the process proceeds to step 166 to identify the changed signal line. The item (power consumption factor 1, power consumption factor 2) is determined from the code, and the process proceeds to step 168.

  In step 168, a message indicating that power was consumed during communication is displayed, and this routine ends.

W Wall surface 10 Image processing device 12 Image forming unit 14 Image reading unit 16 Facsimile communication control circuit 18 Main controller 18A Monitoring control unit 20 Network communication line network 22 Telephone line network 24 Input power line 25 Outlet 28 First human sensor 29 PC
30 Second Human Sensor 30IN Light Receiving Unit 30OUT Light Emitting Unit 31 Commercial Power Supply 32 Wiring Plate 33A to 33E Bus 35A to 35E Power Supply Line 40 UI Touch Panel 40BL UI Touch Panel Backlight Unit 42 Power Supply Device 43 Signal Harness 50 Pillar Unit 52 Cover member 52A Chamfered portion 55 Slit hole 57 Through hole (monitoring window)
58 IC Card Reader / Writer 60 User 62 IC Card 70 Power Display Module 74 Power Calculation Unit 76 Current Measurement Unit 72 Power Display Unit 78 Auxiliary Power Supply 42 Power Supply “Main Power”
78 Auxiliary power supply "Sub power supply"
76A Measurement terminal 80 Calculation control unit 82 CPU
84 Nonvolatile memory 86 Current monitoring unit 87 Bit data analysis unit 88 Timing unit 89 Current transition analysis unit 90 I / O
92 Bus 91 Signal line harness 94 Power switch

Claims (9)

Electric power consumed by the control unit at least in the energy-saving state for a processing device and a device body that includes a control unit that controls the processing device and can shift to an energy-saving state in which power supply from the main power supply unit is restricted A power calculation unit for calculating a value;
Analyzing means for analyzing a power consumption factor of the power value calculated by the power calculation unit;
A display unit for displaying a power value calculated by the power calculation unit and a power consumption factor analyzed by the analysis unit;
A power display module.   The power display module according to claim 1, wherein one of the main power supply unit and the sub power supply unit can be selected as a power supply source of the power calculation unit, the analysis unit, and the display unit. The analysis means is
Receiving means for receiving communication operation information relating to a communication protocol executed by the control unit;
Recognizing means for recognizing a power consumption factor based on the communication operation information received by the receiving means;
The power display module according to claim 1, further comprising: The communication operation information received by the receiving means is bit data received from different signal lines,
The power display module according to claim 3, wherein the recognition unit recognizes communication operation information based on a table stored by associating an identification code for identifying the signal line with an item of the communication operation information. The analysis means is
An acquisition means for acquiring transition information in which the power value calculated by the power calculation unit changes over time;
Discrimination means for discriminating a power consumption factor based on the transition information acquired by the acquisition means;
The power display module according to claim 1, further comprising: The control unit is connected to a plurality of moving body detection units each having a different detectable distance of the moving body, and for the plurality of moving body detection units, the detectable distance of the moving body extends from the far side to the near side. Recognizing the approach of moving objects by inheriting power supply in order,
The discriminating unit counts a period in which the power value acquired by the acquiring unit continuously increases for a certain period of time with respect to the power value in the energy saving state with the least power consumption, and power is supplied to the specific mobile unit detecting unit. power display module according to claim 5, wherein the displaying the count value by the supplied number. The power display module according to claim 2 , wherein the sub power supply unit is a storage battery using power generation that converts sunlight energy into electric power. An apparatus main body comprising a processing device and a control unit for controlling the processing device, and capable of shifting to an energy saving state in which power supply from the main power supply unit is restricted;
A power calculation unit that calculates power consumption of the control unit in at least an energy saving state for the apparatus main body, an analysis unit that analyzes a power consumption factor that is a power consumption value calculated by the power calculation unit, and the power calculation A power display module including a display unit for displaying the power consumption value calculated by the unit and the power consumption factor analyzed by the analyzing unit;
An image processing apparatus. On the computer,
Calculates the power consumption of the controller at least in the energy-saving state for the processing equipment and a control unit that controls the processing equipment. And
Analyze the power consumption factor that is the calculated power consumption value,
A power monitoring control program for displaying the calculated power consumption value and the analyzed power consumption factor.