JP6160728B2 - Power supply control device, power management control program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a power supply control device and a power management 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.

  In Patent Document 1, as a technique for reducing the power when the image processing apparatus is not used, a first timer that automatically shifts to a power saving state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the use of the fixing apparatus, It has been proposed to perform control with a second timer that automatically shifts to a power-off state after a predetermined time has elapsed since the operation of the composite apparatus or the end of the operation when accessed from the outside.

  Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-228561 describes that a human detection function is provided and a UI (user interface) display is turned off when there is no person. More specifically, it has display means for displaying a predetermined image and person detection means for detecting the presence of a person in the vicinity of the information processing apparatus, and the person detection means no longer detects a person. Later, the human detection time, which is the time during which the human detection means was detecting the person, is compared with the first threshold value. Information to be displayed, and when the predetermined image is displayed on the display means, if the human detection means no longer detects a person, the information to delete the predetermined image displayed on the display means based on the comparison result A processing device is disclosed.

  As a reference, Patent Document 3 describes that it contributes to energy saving by detecting that the operator is approaching and turning on the display of the operation unit and turning off when the operator is away. Patent Document 4 describes that the display device can be dynamically changed, for example, by reducing the brightness of the display device in accordance with the use state of the user.

JP 2003-163769 A JP 2002-006686 A Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 03-096969 JP 05-224787 A

  It is an object of the present invention to obtain a power supply control device and a power supply control program that can easily recognize the power supply state of the processing apparatus main body without diverting the line of sight from the interface unit that is the center of the user's visual field. is there.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, the instruction information for instructing the processing in the processing apparatus main body, the display function for displaying the processing information related to the processing in the processing apparatus main body, and the instruction information by touching the display area of the instruction information. A user interface unit including a touch panel unit having an input function for designating information, a backlight unit that illuminates display content by lighting from the back side of the touch panel unit, and a display function of the touch panel unit; A control unit that includes an input function and that controls processing of the processing apparatus main body, and is capable of detecting a moving body that is moving around the processing apparatus main body, and at least the detectable distance has a relatively long and short relationship When the moving object is detected by two kinds of moving object detecting means and one of the moving object detecting means having a long detection distance, the detecting distance When the detection by the other short movement detecting means is started and the moving object is detected by the other moving object detecting means, power is supplied to the control unit and the backlight unit is lit at normal brightness. When the other moving body detecting means stops detecting the moving body in a state where power is supplied to the power supply means and the control section, the backlight section is first darkened from the normal brightness in advance. The adjusting means for adjusting the brightness so as to achieve a predetermined brightness, and the one moving body detecting means is a moving body in a state where the backlight unit is reduced to a predetermined brightness by the adjusting means. A time measuring means for measuring time until a preset time limit is detected, and according to the time length of the time measuring means, the time is darkened from the predetermined brightness, and the time limit is reached. To reach Power reducing means for cutting off the power supply so that the backlight unit is turned off at the time, and the power reducing means again measures the one before reaching the limit time in the time counting by the time measuring means. When a moving body is detected by the moving body detecting means, the brightness is returned to the brightness by the brightness adjustment by the adjusting means.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, the instruction information for instructing the processing in the processing apparatus main body and the display function for displaying the processing information related to the processing in the processing apparatus main body and the display area of the instruction information are touched to thereby instruct the instruction. A power supply control program for a user interface unit comprising a touch panel unit having an input function for designating information and a backlight unit that is lit from the back side of the touch panel unit to clarify display contents. In addition, the computer can detect a moving body moving around the processing apparatus main body, and at least a detection distance of at least two types of moving body detection means having a relatively long and short detectable distance. When the moving body is detected by one of the long moving body detecting means, detection by the other moving detecting means having a short detection distance is started, and When the moving body is detected by the moving body detecting means, the display unit and the input function of the touch panel unit are included, and power is supplied to the control unit that controls the processing of the processing apparatus body, and the backlight unit is If the other moving body detection means stops detecting a moving body in a state where power is supplied to the control section and the control section is supplied with power, the backlight section is set to have the brightness higher than the normal brightness first. In a state where the brightness is adjusted so as to be dark predetermined brightness and the backlight unit is reduced to the predetermined brightness, the one moving body detecting means does not detect the moving body. From the predetermined brightness according to the length of the time, and the backlight unit is turned off when the limit time is reached. Power supply And when the moving object is detected again by the one moving object detection means before reaching the limit time in the time counting, the backlight unit has a predetermined brightness that is darker than normal brightness. It is characterized by returning to the initial brightness adjustment state.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily recognize the power supply state of the processing apparatus main body without diverting the line of sight from the interface unit that is the center of the user's visual field.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to easily recognize the power supply state of the processing apparatus main body without diverting the line of sight from the interface unit that is the center of the user's visual field.

1 is a connection diagram of a communication network including an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. 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. FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram for each function of a control system of a main controller and a power supply device according to the present embodiment. 5 is a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus. 1 is a plan view showing an image processing apparatus and its periphery according to the present embodiment. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a perspective view illustrating an image processing apparatus and its periphery according to an embodiment. It is a perspective view of the cover member provided in the pillar part front surface which concerns on this Embodiment. It is a functional block diagram specialized in the brightness | luminance (brightness) adjustment of the backlight part centering on the main controller. FIG. 3 is a plan view (outside area → entering area F) showing a relative positional relationship between the moving object and the image processing apparatus. FIG. 3 is a plan view (region F → region N approach) showing a relative positional relationship between the moving object and the image processing apparatus. FIG. 3 is a plan view (region N → region F departure) showing a relative positional relationship between a moving object and an image processing apparatus. FIG. 6 is a plan view (region F → out of region) showing a relative positional relationship between the moving body and the image processing apparatus. 7 is a flowchart showing a power-saving power supply timing monitoring control routine including brightness (brightness) adjustment of a backlight unit according to the present embodiment. It is a characteristic view for reducing the brightness | luminance (brightness) of a backlight part in steps. It is a route transition diagram which shows the relationship between the movement state of the main moving body (user) and an electric power supply control state processed along the flowchart of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 1, an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment is connected to a network communication network 20 such as the Internet. In FIG. 1, two image processing apparatuses 10 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more.

  In addition, a plurality of PCs (personal computers) 21 as information terminal devices are connected to the network communication line network 20. In FIG. 1, two PCs 21 are connected, but this number is not limited and may be one or three or more. Further, the information terminal device is not limited to the PC 21 and does not need to be wired. That is, it may be a communication network that transmits and receives information wirelessly.

  As shown in FIG. 1, in the image processing apparatus 10, for example, when data is transferred from the PC 21 to the image processing apparatus 10 remotely to perform an image formation (print) instruction operation, or a user (user) May stand in front of the image processing apparatus 10 and instruct various processes such as copying (copying), scanning (image reading), and facsimile transmission / reception by various operations.

  FIG. 2 shows an image processing apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

  The image processing apparatus 10 includes an image forming unit 240 that forms an image on recording paper, an image reading unit 238 that reads an original image, and a facsimile communication control circuit 236. The image processing apparatus 10 includes a main controller 200, and controls the image forming unit 240, the image reading unit 238, and the facsimile communication control circuit 236 to temporarily store image data of a document image read by the image reading unit 238. The stored image data or the read image data is sent to the image forming unit 240 or the facsimile communication control circuit 236.

  A network communication line network 20 such as the Internet is connected to the main controller 200, and a telephone line network 22 is connected to the facsimile communication control circuit 236. For example, the main controller 200 is connected to a host computer via the 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 236. Has a role to play.

  The image reading unit 238 receives a document table for positioning a document, a scan drive system that scans an image of the document placed on the document table and irradiates 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 240 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.

  In the image processing apparatus 10, an outlet 245 is attached to the tip of the input power supply line 244. By inserting the outlet 245 into the wiring plate 243 of the commercial power supply 242 wired up to the wall surface W, the image processing apparatus 10 The power supply is received from the commercial power source 242.

(Control system hardware configuration of image processing apparatus)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram of the hardware configuration of the control system of the image processing apparatus 10.

  The network line network 20 is connected to the main controller 200. A facsimile communication control circuit 236, an image reading unit 238, an image forming unit 240, and a UI touch panel 216 are connected to the main controller 200 via buses 33A to 33D such as a data bus and a control bus, respectively. In other words, the main controller 200 is the main body, and each processing unit of the image processing apparatus 10 is controlled. The UI touch panel 216 is provided with a UI touch panel backlight unit 216BL.

  Further, the image processing apparatus 10 includes a power supply device 202, and is connected to the main controller 200 through a signal harness 201.

  The power supply device 202 is supplied with power from the commercial power supply 242 via the input power supply line 244.

  The power supply device 202 includes power supply lines 35 </ b> A to 35 </ b> D that supply power independently to the main controller 200, the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, the image forming unit 240, and the UI touch panel 216. Yes. For this reason, the main controller 200 individually supplies power to each processing unit (device) (power supply mode) or shuts off the power supply (sleep mode) to enable so-called partial power saving control.

  In addition, two first human sensors 28 and a second human sensor 30 are connected to the main controller 200 to monitor the presence or absence of people around the image processing apparatus 10. The first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 will be described later.

(Functional block diagram with a partial power-saving configuration)
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an operation unit controlled by the main controller 200 (sometimes referred to as “processing unit”, “device”, “module”, etc.), a main controller 200, and each device for supplying power. It is a schematic block diagram which mainly made the power line of the power supply device 202 of FIG. In the present embodiment, the image processing apparatus 10 can supply or not supply power in units of processing units (partial power saving control). 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, the main controller 200 is also included as an object of partial power saving. When all the processing units are saved, the monitoring control unit 24 (described later) receives the minimum necessary power and supplies power to other control devices. (There is sometimes referred to as “power saving mode” or “sleep mode”).

[Main controller 200]
As shown in FIG. 4, the main controller 200 includes a CPU 204, a RAM 206, a ROM 208, an I / O (input / output unit) 210, and a bus 212 such as a data bus and a control bus for connecting them. A UI touch panel 216 (including a backlight unit 216BL) is connected to the I / O 210. A hard disk (HDD) 218 is connected to the I / O 210. The functions of the main controller 200 are realized by the CPU 204 operating based on programs recorded in the ROM 208, the hard disk 218, and the like. The program is installed from a recording medium (CD, DVD, BD (Blu-ray Disc), USB memory, SD memory, etc.) storing the program, and the CPU 204 operates based on the program to realize an image processing function. May be.

  A timer circuit 220 and a communication line I / F 222 are connected to the I / O 210. Further, the I / O 210 is connected to each device of a facsimile communication control circuit (modem) 236, an image reading unit 238, and an image forming unit 240.

  The timer circuit 220 measures time as an opportunity to put the facsimile communication control circuit 236, the image reading unit 238, and the image forming unit 240 into a power saving state (power supply cut-off state) (hereinafter, “ Sometimes called system timer).

  The main controller 200 and each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) are supplied with power from the power supply device 202 (see the dotted line in FIG. 4). In FIG. 4, the power supply line is shown by one line (dotted line), but in reality it is two to three wires.

[Power supply device 202]
As shown in FIG. 4, the input power supply line 244 drawn from the commercial power supply 242 is connected to the main switch 246. When the main switch 246 is turned on, power can be supplied to the second power supply unit 250 via the first power supply unit 248 and the first sub power supply switch 256.

  The first power supply unit 248 includes a control power generation unit 248A and is connected to the power supply control circuit 252 of the main controller 200. The power supply control circuit 252 supplies power to the main controller 200 and is connected to the I / O 210. According to a control program of the main controller 200, each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240). Switching control for conducting / non-conducting the power supply line to) is performed.

  On the other hand, a first sub power switch 256 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-1”) is interposed in a power line 254 (ground side) connected to the second power unit 250. The SW-1 is controlled to be turned on / off by the power supply control circuit 252. That is, when this SW-1 is off, the second power supply unit 250 does not function (the power consumption is 0 after “SW-1”).

  The second power supply unit 250 includes a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1). The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) is a power supply mainly used for a motor or the like.

  The 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) of the second power supply unit 250 selectively supply an image reading unit power supply unit 258, an image forming unit power supply unit 260, and a facsimile communication control circuit power supply. 264 and the UI touch panel power supply unit 266.

  The image reading unit power supply unit 258 uses the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as an input source, and the image reading unit 238 via a second sub power switch 268 (hereinafter also referred to as “SW-2”). It is connected to the.

  The image forming unit power supply unit 260 uses a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources, and a third sub power switch 270 (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “SW-3”). And connected to the image forming unit 240.

  The facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 264 may be referred to as a fourth sub power switch 274 (hereinafter “SW-4”) with the 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) and the 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) as input sources. ) To the facsimile communication control circuit 236 and the image forming unit 240.

  The UI touch panel power supply unit 266 uses a 5V power supply unit 250L (LVPS1) and a 24V power supply unit 250H (LVPS2) as input sources and a fifth sub power switch 276 (hereinafter may be referred to as “SW-5”). Via the UI touch panel 216 (including the backlight unit 216BL).

  Similarly to the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fourth sub power switch 274, and the fifth sub power switch 276 are the main controller 200. On / off control is performed based on a power source selection signal from the power source control circuit 252. Although not shown, the switches and wirings to which the 24V power supply unit 250H and the 5V power supply unit 250L are supplied are composed of two systems. Further, the power switches 268 to 276 may be arranged in each device that is the power supply destination instead of the power supply device 202. Further, the fixing unit (corresponding to “Fuser” shown in FIG. 3) of the image forming unit (not shown) is supplied with the commercial power 242 from the first sub power switch 256 (“SW-1”) and the subsequent images. It is energized only when necessary at the formation unit 240.

  In the above configuration, it is necessary to supply power for selecting each device (facsimile communication control circuit 236, image reading unit 238, image forming unit 240) for each function and not to supply power to devices unnecessary for the instructed function. Minimal power is required.

(Supervisory control for state transition of image processing device)
Here, the main controller 200 of the present embodiment may partially stop its function (partial power saving) so that the necessary minimum power consumption is achieved. Alternatively, the power supply may be stopped including the majority of the main controller 200 (“sleep mode (power saving mode)).

  The sleep mode can be shifted, for example, by starting a system timer when image processing is completed. That is, the power supply is stopped when a predetermined time elapses after the system timer is started. If there is any operation (hard key operation, etc.) before the predetermined time elapses, the timer count to the sleep mode is naturally canceled and the system timer is started from the end of the next image processing.

  On the other hand, during the sleep mode, a power-saving monitoring control unit 24 (see FIG. 4) is connected to the I / O 210 as an element that is constantly supplied with power. The power-saving monitoring control unit 24 may include, for example, an IC chip called an ASIC, which stores an operation program by itself and is processed by the operation program, including a CPU, RAM, ROM, and the like. Good.

  By the way, in the monitoring during power saving, for example, a print request is received from the communication line detection unit or a FAX reception request is received from the FAX line detection unit. In the unit 24, the first sub power switch 256, the second sub power switch 268, the third sub power switch 270, the fourth sub power switch 274, and the fifth sub power switch are connected via the power control circuit 252. It is assumed that power is supplied by controlling 276.

(Main controller power supply / cut-off control)
Further, as shown in FIG. 4, a power saving control button 26 (sometimes simply referred to as “power saving button 26”) is connected to the I / O 210 of the main controller 200. The power saving mode can be canceled by operating the power saving control button 26. The power saving control button 26 also has a function of being operated when power is supplied to the processing unit, thereby forcibly cutting off the power supply of the processing unit and setting the power saving state. An IC card reader 217 is connected to the I / O 210 of the main controller 200.

  Here, in order to monitor in the sleep mode, it is preferable to supply the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit to the power saving control button 26 and each detection unit in addition to the power saving monitoring control unit 24 while the power is being saved. That is, even in the sleep mode in which the power is not supplied, there is a case where the power is not more than a predetermined power (for example, 0.5 W or less) and is supplied with the power necessary for determining whether to supply power. is there.

  As a specific period of the sleep mode, a period for supplying the minimum necessary power supply mainly including an input system such as the main controller 200, the UI touch panel 216, and the IC card reader 217 may be provided. This is in consideration of convenience for the user. Also, it is not particularly important whether the specific period of the sleep mode is still defined as the sleep mode or as another mode. For example, if the definition of the sleep mode is “less than power consumption such as a predetermined energy saving level”, whether or not the power consumption in a specific period of the sleep mode is maintained below the predetermined energy saving level. Judge by.

  For example, when the user operates the power saving control button 26 during the sleep mode to copy as a processing function, as a specific period, first, the main controller 200 is started up, the UI touch panel 216 is operated, After making the card authentication by the IC card reader 217 possible, it is possible to achieve both convenience and energy saving by selecting a device and supplying power in accordance with the operation status of the user. This specific period may be during human detection by a human sensor described later.

(Function of human sensor)
By the way, when the user stands in front of the image processing apparatus 10 in the sleep mode and then operates the power saving control button 26 to restart the power supply, it may take time until the image processing apparatus 10 starts up. .

  Therefore, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are installed in the power saving monitoring control unit 24. In the sleep mode, the human sensor detects the user before pressing the power saving cancel button. The power supply was restarted early so that users could use it quickly. Although the power saving control button 26, the first human sensor 28, and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, all the monitoring is performed only by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It is also possible to perform.

  As shown in FIG. 4, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 include detection units 28A and 30A and circuit board units 28B and 30B, and the circuit board units 28B and 30B The sensitivity of the signals detected by the detection units 28A and 30A is adjusted and an output signal is generated.

  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, the detection target of the human sensor may be referred to as “person”, but in the future, 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 a range of 1 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.

  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, the presence of the person is not detected if the person is stationary within the detection region. 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 human sensor 28 may detect the presence of the person. .

  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.

  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).

"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. 6 and 7) by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. It was set.

  The first region F in FIG. 6 which is a relatively distant detection region (sometimes simply referred to as “region F”) is a detection region by the first human sensor 28 and is a relatively remote mobile object. It has a function as a detection means. Further, the second region N in FIG. 6 (which may be simply referred to as “region N”), which is a relatively close detection region, is a detection region by the second human sensor 30 and is relatively close. It has a function as a moving body detection means.

  The detection area of the first human sensor 28 (see the first area F in FIG. 6) has a critical point (the farthest position) as a guide, although it depends on the environment where the image processing apparatus 10 is installed. About 0.8 to 3 m is preferable. On the other hand, the detection area of the second human sensor 30 (see the second area N in FIG. 6) is a range in which the UI touch panel 216 and hard keys of the image processing apparatus 10 can be operated. (The farthest position) is preferably about 0.2 to 1.0 m. Of course, after setting both, the critical point of the first human sensor 28 becomes farther than the critical point of the second human sensor 30.

(Configuration of the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30 and the surroundings)
As shown in FIG. 7, the image processing apparatus 10 includes an image reading device 238, an image forming device 240, and the like that are covered with a housing 300, and the first human sensor 28 (the second human sensor 30 is replaced by the first human sensor 28. Are attached to a vertically long rectangular pillar 302 in the housing 300. The pillar portion 302 is a portion that connects the upper housing 300A that covers the image reading device 238 and the lower housing 300B that covers the image forming device 240, and a recording paper conveyance system or the like is assembled therein.

  A vertically long rectangular cover member 304 that covers the pillar portion 302 with a design element is attached to the front surface of the pillar portion 302.

  A gap is provided between the lower surface of the cover member 304 and the upper surface of the lower housing 300B. Further, as shown in FIG. 8, the lower end portion of the cover member 304 has a so-called chamfering (chamfering portion 304A) shape, and the opening area of the gap portion 312 is larger than the gap size on the back side.

  The chamfered portion 304A is provided with a rectangular through-hole 304B, and the first human sensor 28 is attached thereto. For this reason, the through hole 304 </ b> B serves as a monitoring window for detecting the moving body by the first human sensor 28. Hereinafter, the through hole 304B may be referred to as a monitoring window 304B.

  Here, since the monitoring window 304B is formed in the chamfered portion 304A, the monitoring window 304B is less visible from the front of the apparatus than that formed on the front surface, and does not impair the design elements of the cover member 304. .

  Further, as shown in FIG. 8, a vertically long slit hole 310 is provided at the upper end portion of the cover member 304 in FIG. 8, and the second human sensor 30 is provided on the back side of the slit hole 310. Has been placed. The second human sensor 30 includes a light receiving unit 30IN and a light projecting unit 30OUT as the detection unit 30A, and the detection unit 30A is attached to the circuit board unit 30B. The circuit board portion 30B is attached to the base member 306.

(Sensor power supply control)
In the present embodiment, the second human sensor 30 is not always supplied with power. The second human sensor 30 starts operating when power is supplied when the moving body (user) enters the first region F of FIG. 6 managed by the first human sensor 28. When the moving body (user) enters the second area N of FIG. 6 under the jurisdiction of the second human sensor 30, the start-up from the sleep mode to the standby mode is instructed.

  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.

  On the other hand, regarding the interruption of the power supply of the second human sensor 30, the timer function provided in the power saving monitoring control unit 24 is used in addition to the moving body detection status of the first human sensor 28. It is like that. This timer function is sometimes referred to as a “sensor timer” in order to distinguish it from the system timer described above.

  The sensor timer is one of the functions of the power saving monitoring control unit 24. That is, the control system is naturally provided with an operation clock, and a timer may be generated from this clock signal, or a counter program may be generated that counts every processing every predetermined time.

  As shown in FIG. 6, the relationship between the moving object (user) and the image processing apparatus 10 is roughly divided into three forms. In the first form, a person operates the image processing apparatus 10 for the purpose of use. The form approaching to the possible position (see the trend of arrow A in FIG. 6 (A pattern)), the second form is a form in which the person approaches the operable position, although the processing device is not intended for use ( In the third form, the person does not approach the operable position of the processing apparatus, but the third form is likely to shift to the first form or the second form. It is the form (refer the trend (C pattern) of the C line arrow of FIG. 6) which is made to a certain distance.

  In the present embodiment, based on the detection information by the first human sensor 28, the detection information by the first human sensor 28, and the time information of the sensor timer, the trends (the A pattern to the C pattern shown in FIG. 6). The power supply timing and the power supply cutoff timing of the second human sensor 30 are controlled in accordance with the person's movement mode based on the above.

  By the way, if the power supply system differs depending on whether the moving body (user) is in an approaching state or a separated state, for example, when approaching for the purpose of using the image processing apparatus 10, power is supplied to the image processing apparatus 10. Sometimes it is unclear. In this case, the pillar unit 304 (see FIG. 7) to which the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are attached is provided with an indicator (LED or the like) that lights up in response to the moving body. In the lighting state, it is possible to notify that a person is reacting to approaching or leaving.

  However, the user's line of sight for the purpose of using the image processing apparatus 10 is often mainly the UI tile panel 216. For this reason, it is difficult for the lighting state of the indicator in the pillar unit 304 to enter the field of view, and it is difficult to grasp the power supply state (transition state).

  Therefore, in the present embodiment, the lighting state of the backlight unit 216BL of the UI touch panel unit 216 is linked with the detection of the moving body (user) by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. To control.

  In the present embodiment, light amount control is applied as control of the lighting state of the backlight unit 216B, and this light amount control is executed in a specific period during the sleep mode.

  The specific period in the sleep mode referred to here means that a person is detected by the second human sensor 30 during the sleep mode, and first the main controller 200 is started to enable the operation of the UI touch panel 216. It is a period.

  At this time, the brightness (brightness) of the backlight unit 216 for illuminating the screen of the UI touch panel 216 can be adjusted in a plurality of stages (hereinafter sometimes referred to as “brightness adjustment”, “brightness adjustment”, etc.). The brightness is controlled in cooperation with the approach and separation of the.

  FIG. 9 is a functional block diagram specialized in the brightness adjustment of the backlight unit 216 with the main controller 200 as the center. Note that this functional block diagram does not limit the hardware configuration of the main controller 200.

  The monitoring control unit 24 is supplied with power from the power supply control circuit 252 even in the sleep mode, and the monitoring control unit 24 constantly supplies power to the first human sensor 28. On the other hand, the monitoring control unit 24 supplies power to the second human sensor 30 when the first human sensor 28 detects the moving body.

  The power supply control circuit 252 is a part of the main controller 200. However, when the user detection information is input by the second human sensor 30 via the monitoring control unit 24, the CPU 204, etc. Electric power is supplied to the components (starting up the main controller 200).

  The UI touch panel 216 includes a touch panel unit 216TP and a backlight unit 216BL. When the SW-5276 is turned on under the control of the power supply control circuit 252, power is supplied. Here, power is supplied to the UI touch panel 216 in synchronization with the start-up of the main controller 200.

  As shown in FIG. 9, the monitoring control unit 24 of the main controller 200 is connected to the movement form determination unit 280. Information based on the moving body detection by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 connected to the monitoring control unit 24 is input to the movement form determination unit 280.

  The movement form determination unit 280 is based on information based on the detection of the moving object (in the region F and the region N shown in FIG. Thus, the mode of moving these three types of positions relative to each other is determined.

  The movement form determination unit 280 is connected to the backlight luminance adjustment unit 282. The backlight luminance adjustment unit 282 receives the movement type information from the movement type determination unit 280 and adjusts the luminance of the backlight unit 216BL to be darker than the normal brightness.

  Power supply modes including brightness adjustment of the backlight unit 216BL during the sleep mode are roughly classified into four stages.

  (Step 1) When a moving object is detected by the first human sensor 28, electric power is supplied to the second human sensor 30 (see FIG. 10).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 10A, when the moving body (indicated by reference sign H in FIG. 10) is outside the region F of the first human sensor 28, the second human sensor 30 is supplied with electric power. Is not supplied. From this state, as shown in FIG. 10B, when the moving body enters the area F of the first human sensor 28, electric power is supplied to the second human sensor 30 and the second human sensor. A detection area of the sensor 30 is generated.

  (Step 2) When a user is detected by the second human sensor 30, the backlight unit 216BL is turned on with normal luminance (brightness) (see FIG. 11).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 11A, the moving body (denoted with a symbol H in FIG. 11) is in the region F of the first human sensor 28 and outside the region N of the second human sensor 30. At this time, the backlight unit 216BL is kept off. From this state, as shown in FIG. 11B, when the moving body enters the area N of the second human sensor 30, the backlight unit 216BL is turned on with normal luminance (brightness).

  (Step 3) When the user does not operate the input system such as the touch panel unit 216TP and moves away from the detection of the second human sensor 30 (outside the region N), the brightness of the backlight unit 216BL is decreased by one step. (See FIG. 12).

  That is, as shown in FIG. 12A, when the moving body (labeled H in FIG. 12) is in the region N of the second human sensor 30, the backlight unit 216BL has a normal luminance ( (Brightness). From this state, as shown in FIG. 12B, when the moving body moves away from the region N of the second human sensor 30 and into the region F of the first human sensor 28, the backlight unit 216 Make the brightness (brightness) darker than normal.

  (Step 4) When the user who has left the area N further leaves the area other than the first human sensor 28 (outside the area F), the backlight unit 216BL is gradually darkened based on the timer timing. Finally, the light is extinguished (see FIG. 13). It may be turned off directly.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 13A, when the moving body (indicated by symbol H in FIG. 13) is in the area F of the first human sensor 28, the backlight portion 216BL is darker than usual. Lights up. From this state, as shown in FIG. 13B, when the moving body moves out of the area F of the first human sensor 28, the backlight unit 216BL is darkened stepwise and turned off or directly turned off. .

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

(Mode transition of power supply control of image processing apparatus 10 (device))
First, based on FIG. 5, a timing chart showing each mode state and an event that triggers the transition of the mode state in the image processing apparatus 10 is shown.

  If the image processing apparatus 10 is not processed, the operation state is the sleep mode, and in this embodiment, power is supplied only to the power-saving monitoring control unit 24.

  Here, when there is a start opportunity (detection of a start trigger such as user detection by the second human sensor 30 or operation of the power saving control button 26, etc.), the operation state transitions to the warm-up mode.

  Note that after the trigger for the start-up, the sleep mode may still be defined, but the power supply amount is increased by the activation of the main controller 200 and the UI touch panel 216 as compared with the power supply of the power-saving monitoring control unit 24 alone. . Further, for example, when returning by the operation of the power saving control button 26, the mode returns to the mode for selecting a job, which device is activated depending on the selected job, and when the image forming unit 240 is not activated, it is not warmed up There is also.

  The start-up trigger includes, for example, a human detection by the cooperation of the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30, a power saving canceling operation by the user's operation of the power saving control button 26, for example, human feeling It may be a signal based on a detection result by a sensor or an operation authentication of the IC card reader 217.

  In the warm-up mode, the image processing apparatus 10 (mainly, the temperature of the fixing unit of the image forming unit 240) is brought into a processable state, so that the power consumption is the maximum in each mode. By using an IH heater as the heater, 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.

  When the warm-up operation in the warm-up mode is completed, the image processing apparatus 10 transitions to the standby mode. The warm-up operation is a mode that consumes the most power (for example, 1200 W).

  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 transitions 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 changed to the standby mode by the standby trigger. Note that, after image processing, timing by a system timer may be started, and after a predetermined time has elapsed, a standby trigger may be output to transition to the standby mode.

  If there is a job execution instruction in the standby mode, the mode is changed to the running mode again, and when the fall trigger is detected or a predetermined time has elapsed, the mode is changed to the sleep mode. The trigger for falling can be, for example, a signal based on a detection result by a human sensor, a system timer, or a combination thereof.

  Further, the mode state transitions in the actual operation of the image processing apparatus 10 do not all proceed in time series as shown in this 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 according to the present embodiment transits between the modes, and the power consumed for each mode is different.

  In the present embodiment, power supply control is performed for each device. For example, when an image reading process is instructed from the sleep mode, the image reading unit is not started without starting the image forming unit 240. So-called partial power saving, such as energizing 238, is possible.

(Monitoring by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 during the sleep mode)
Here, in the present embodiment, during the sleep mode, basically, only the first human sensor 28 receives power supply and monitors the approaching state of the moving body. This monitoring area (detection area) corresponds to the area F in FIG. 6, and analysis (changes) of electric signals based on infrared rays input to the detection unit 28 </ b> A (a plurality of detection elements 314) of the first human sensor 28. The presence or absence of a moving object is detected by the amount).

  When a moving body is detected by the first human sensor 28 (moving body detection in the region F in FIG. 6), power supply to the second human sensor 30 is started.

  The second human sensor 30 is closer to the image processing apparatus 10 than the detection area of the first human sensor 28 as shown by the area N in FIG. 10 is recognized, and power is supplied to a part of the image processing apparatus 10 (for example, the main controller 200 and the UI touch panel 216).

  In this way, the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30 are used in combination, and by taking the detection form step by step, the mobile object simply passing and the intention to use the image processing apparatus 10 are obtained. It is possible to distinguish from a certain user.

(Brightness adjustment of backlight unit 216BL)
If the power supply system differs depending on whether the moving body (user) is in an approaching state or a separated state, for example, when approaching for the purpose of using the image processing apparatus 10, at which point the power is supplied to the image processing apparatus 10 It may be unclear. Therefore, in the sleep mode (power saving), the backlight unit 216BL of the UI touch panel unit 216 is linked to the detection of the moving body (user) by the first human sensor 28 and the second human sensor 30. The lighting state of was controlled.

  FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a power-saving power supply timing monitoring control routine including the brightness adjustment of the backlight unit 216BL according to the present embodiment.

  In step 100, it is determined whether or not the first human sensor 28 has detected a moving body. If an affirmative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 102 and power supply to the second human sensor 30 is started. Thereby, detection by the second human sensor 30 is disclosed.

  In the next step 104, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the second human sensor 30. If a negative determination is made, the process proceeds to step 106, and the first human sensor 28 is reached. It is then determined whether or not a moving object has been detected. If an affirmative determination is made in step 106, the mobile body (user) determines that it is in the area F and outside the area N in FIG. 6, and returns to step 104. If the position does not change, step 104, 106 is repeated.

  Here, if a negative determination is made in step 106, it is determined that the moving body (user) has moved away from the image processing apparatus 10 (outside the area F in FIG. 6), and the process proceeds to step 108 and the second. Power supply to the human sensor 30 is terminated (detection by the second human sensor 30), and the process returns to step 100.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step 104, it is determined that the moving body (user) has entered the area N in FIG. 6, the process proceeds to step 110, and power supply to the main controller 200 and UI touch panel 216 is started. Next, the routine proceeds to step 112 where the backlight unit 216BL is normally lit and the routine proceeds to step 114.

  In the next step 114, it is determined whether or not an input system operation such as the touch panel unit 216TP has been performed. If an affirmative determination is made, it is determined that there is an intention to operate the image processing apparatus 10, and the process proceeds to step 116. A process of moving the power supply state to the image processing apparatus 10 to the normal mode is performed, and this routine ends. Note that the normal mode may be a power supply to a minimum necessary device based on a user's operation (partial power saving), or power may be supplied to all devices.

  Here, if a negative determination is made in step 114 and there is no operation of an input system such as the touch panel unit 216TP, the process proceeds to step 118. In step 118, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the second human sensor 30. In the affirmative determination in step 118, that is, in the period during which the moving body (user) is detected, it is determined that there is a possibility of operating the input system such as the touch panel unit 216 TP, and the process returns to step 114.

  If the determination in step 118 is negative, it is determined that the moving body has left the area N in FIG. 6 without operating the input system such as the touch panel unit 216TP. The brightness (brightness) of the unit 216 is reduced by one level (dimming level (a)).

  Here, the dimming step means that the luminance (brightness) of the backlight unit 216BL can be adjusted stepwise as shown in FIG. The dimming stage (a) is one stage darker than the normal lighting.

  In the next step 122, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the first human sensor 28, and if it is determined to be affirmative, that is, within the region F in FIG. The process proceeds to step 124, where it is determined whether the second human sensor 30 has detected a moving body (user). If the determination in step 124 is negative, that is, if it is determined that the region is outside the region N in FIG. 6, the process returns to step 122, while the moving body (user) remains in the region F in FIG. Repeat steps 122 and 124.

  Here, when an affirmative determination is made at step 124, that is, when it is determined that the moving object (user) has entered the region N in FIG. .

  If the determination in step 122 is negative, that is, if it is determined that the moving body (user) has left the area F in FIG. 6, the process proceeds to step 126, the time is started by the timer, and the process proceeds to step 128. . In step 128, the luminance (brightness) of the backlight unit 216 is reduced by one step. The timer is a device for measuring the timer set time of FIG. 15, and when the timer is started, the dimming stage is changed to (a) to (b).

  In the next step 130, it is determined whether or not the first human sensor 28 has detected a moving body. If a negative determination is made in step 130, the process proceeds to step 132 to determine whether or not a predetermined time has elapsed. If a negative determination is made, the process returns to step 130. If an affirmative determination is made in step 132, it is determined that the next dimming time is reached, and the routine proceeds to step 134. In step 134, it is determined whether or not the time is up (see FIG. 15). If a negative determination is made in step 134, the process returns to step 128, and the backlight unit 216BL is dimmed by one step. That is, as shown in FIG. 15, after the dimming step (b) is started when the timer is started, the backlight unit 26BL is dimmed step by step (c) to (e) at predetermined time intervals. It will fade out. Note that the number of steps is not limited, and in an extreme case, it may be continuously and gradually dimmed based on a predetermined rate of change.

  Here, when an affirmative determination is made in step 134 and the time is up, the routine proceeds to step 136 and the backlight unit 216BL is completely turned off. That is, the process returns to the sleep mode, and the process returns to Step 100.

  On the other hand, if an affirmative determination is made in step 130, it is determined that the moving body (user) has entered the region F in FIG. 6 again, and the process proceeds to step 138 to cancel the dimming due to the timer timing ( The luminance (brightness) of the backlight unit 216BL is set as a dimming step (a)), and the process proceeds to step 140. In step 140, it is determined whether or not the moving object (user) is detected by the second human sensor 30. If a negative determination is made, the process returns to step 122, and if an affirmative determination is made, the process returns to step 112. Return.

  Dotted arrows shown in FIG. 16 indicate the transition of the main moving body (user) in the flowchart of FIG. 14, and the brightness (brightness) of the backlight unit 216BL changes in each. The user can recognize the power supply state of the image processing apparatus 10 without diverting the line of sight toward the UI touch panel 216.

W Wall surface 10 Image processing device 20 Network communication network 21 PC
22 telephone line network 24 power saving monitoring control unit 26 power saving control button 28 first human sensor 30 second human sensor 30A detection unit 30B circuit board unit 30IN light receiving unit 30OUT light projecting unit 50 light shielding cover 52 motor 200 main controller 204 CPU
206 RAM
208 ROM
210 I / O (input / output unit)
212 Bus 216 UI Touch Panel 216TP Touch Panel Unit 216BL Backlight Unit 218 Hard Disk 220 Timer Circuit 222 Communication Line I / F
236 Facsimile communication control circuit 238 Image reading unit 240 Image forming unit 242 Commercial power supply 243 Wiring plate 244 Input power supply line 245 Outlet 246 Main switch 248 First power supply unit 250 Second power supply unit 248A Control power generation unit 252 Power supply control Circuit 254 Power line 256 First sub power switch ("SW-1")
250H 24V power supply (LVPS2)
250L 5V power supply (LVPS1)
258 Image reading unit power supply unit 260 Image forming unit power supply unit 266 Facsimile communication control circuit power supply unit 268 Second sub power switch (“SW-2”)
270 Third sub power switch ("SW-3")
274 Fourth sub power switch ("SW-4")
276 Fifth sub power switch ("SW-5")
280 Movement type determination unit 282 Backlight brightness adjustment unit

Claims (2)

Provided with a display function for instructing processing in the processing apparatus main body and a processing function for displaying processing information relating to processing in the processing apparatus main body, and an input function for specifying the instruction information by touching the display area of the instruction information A user interface unit comprising: a touch panel unit; and a backlight unit that illuminates display content by lighting from the back side of the touch panel unit;
A control unit that includes a display function and an input function of the touch panel unit, and controls processing of the processing apparatus body;
At least two types of moving body detecting means capable of detecting a moving body moving around the processing apparatus main body and having at least a relatively long and short detectable distance;
Among the moving body detecting means, when the moving body is detected by one moving body detecting means having a long detection distance, detection by the other moving detecting means having a short detection distance is started, and the other moving body detecting means is started. in at the time of detecting a moving object and supplies power to the control unit, the backlight unit normal Ru power supply means is turned on with the brightness of,
When the power is supplied to the control unit and the other moving body detection unit does not detect the moving body, the backlight unit has the predetermined brightness that is darker than the normal brightness first. Adjusting means for adjusting the brightness,
In a state where the backlight unit is reduced to a predetermined brightness by the adjustment unit, the time is measured until a preset limit time after the one mobile unit detection unit no longer detects the mobile unit. Timekeeping means,
Depending on the length of the counting time of the timer means, the gradually advance lightness or al dark combs determined, so as to turn off the backlight unit when it reaches the limit time, power cut off the power supply Reducing means,
The previous Symbol power reduction means,
A power supply control device for returning to the brightness by the brightness adjustment by the adjusting means when the moving object is detected again by the one moving object detecting means before reaching the limit time in the time counting by the time measuring means. Provided with a display function for instructing processing in the processing apparatus main body and a processing function for displaying processing information relating to processing in the processing apparatus main body, and an input function for specifying the instruction information by touching the display area of the instruction information A power supply control program for a user interface unit comprising a touch panel unit and a backlight unit that illuminates display content by lighting from the back side of the touch panel unit,
On the computer,
One moving body having a long detection distance among at least two kinds of moving body detecting means capable of detecting a moving body around the processing apparatus main body and having at least a relatively long detectable distance. When the moving body is detected by the detecting means, the detection by the other moving detecting means having a short detection distance is started,
In addition, when the moving body is detected by the other moving body detecting means, the power is supplied to the control section that includes the display function and the input function of the touch panel section and controls the processing of the processing apparatus body, and the back Turn on the light at normal brightness,
When the power is supplied to the control unit and the other moving body detection unit does not detect the moving body, the backlight unit has the predetermined brightness that is darker than the normal brightness first. Adjust the brightness so that
In a state where the backlight unit is reduced to a predetermined brightness, the one moving body detecting means stops detecting the moving body, and then measures the time until a preset time limit,
Depending on the length of the measurement time, the gradually advance lightness or al dark combs determined, so as to turn off the backlight unit when it reaches the limit time, thereby interrupting the power supply,
When the moving object is detected again by the one moving object detection means before reaching the limit time in the time counting, the backlight unit is set to a predetermined brightness that is darker than normal brightness. , Return to the default brightness adjustment,
A power supply control program that executes this.

Images