Image forming system and image forming method

Abstract

This invention discloses an image forming system and an image forming method. The image forming system includes a processor. When a human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the human body sensor, the processor controls the human body sensor to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance shorter than the first region. The processor also restores the image forming device, which is in a first power state, to a second power state with a higher power state than the first power state. When a person is detected in the second region, the processor restores the image forming device to a third power state with a higher power state than the second power state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to an image forming system and an image forming method. Background Technology

[0002] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2019-50627 discloses an image forming apparatus comprising: a human body sensing sensor and a control unit, wherein the human body sensing sensor is capable of sensing a human body located in a sensing area within a preset range, and the control unit, in response to the sensing of the human body sensing sensor in a power-saving mode, deactivates the power-saving mode and causes the image forming unit to perform operations. Summary of the Invention

[0003] Previously, a mechanism was known that deactivates the device's power-saving mode when a person enters the area surrounding the device. However, this mechanism also reacts to people merely passing by, unnecessarily deactivating the power-saving mode and thus compromising energy efficiency. Furthermore, when the reaction area shrinks, the device's startup is delayed, causing users to wait and reducing convenience.

[0004] The purpose of this invention is to improve energy efficiency while ensuring the convenience of users of the device.

[0005] According to a first aspect of the present invention, an image forming system is provided, comprising a processor, characterized in that, when the human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the human body sensor, the processor controls the human body sensor to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance shorter than the first region, and restores the image forming apparatus, which is in a first power state, to a second power state with a higher power state than the first power state; and when a person is detected in the second region, the image forming apparatus is restored to a third power state with a higher power state than the second power state.

[0006] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in the first aspect, when the processor detects a person in the first region, it controls the human body sensor in the following manner: for a specific direction connecting the detected person location and the image forming apparatus, it detects a person in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance; and when a person is detected by the human body sensor under the control, it restores the image forming apparatus to the third power state.

[0007] According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in the second aspect, when the processor detects a person in the first region, it controls the human body sensor in such a way that the distance at which a person can be detected becomes longer as the distance is closer to the specific direction within a predetermined range including the specific direction, and when a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

[0008] According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in any of the first to third aspects, the processor divides the first region into a plurality of regions radially centered on the image forming apparatus. When a person is detected by the human body sensor in any of the divided regions, the human body sensor is controlled in the following manner: for the segmented region where a person is detected, the person is detected at a distance longer than the second distance in the second region; when a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

[0009] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in the fourth aspect, the processor controls the human body sensor in the following manner: for adjacent segmented regions in other segmented regions different from the segmented region where the human body was detected, a human body is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance; when a human body is detected by the human body sensor under the control, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

[0010] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in the fifth aspect, the processor controls the human body sensor in such a way that, for the adjacent segmented regions, a person is detected at a distance shorter than the segmented region where the person was detected.

[0011] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in any of the first to sixth aspects, when the processor detects a person in a predetermined area through the human body sensor, it restores the image forming apparatus from the first power state to the third power state.

[0012] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming system involved in the seventh aspect, the pre-defined region is configured to extend outwards from the image forming apparatus as the center.

[0013] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, an image forming method is provided, comprising the following steps: when a human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the human body sensor, the human body sensor is controlled to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance from the human body sensor that is shorter than the first region, and the image forming apparatus in a first power state is restored to a second power state with a power state higher than the first power state; and when a person is detected in the second region, the image forming apparatus is restored to a third power state with a power state higher than the second power state.

[0014] (Effect)

[0015] According to the first solution, energy efficiency can be improved while ensuring the convenience of people who may use the device.

[0016] According to the second scheme, compared to the case where the structure is not as follows, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device from a greater distance: when a person is detected in the first area, the person is detected in the second area at a distance longer than the second distance, for a specific direction in which the detected person is connected to the image forming apparatus.

[0017] According to the third scheme, compared to the case where the structure is not as follows, the range from which a person can be detected from a greater distance can be expanded centered on a specific direction: when a person is detected in the first region, the distance from which a person can be detected becomes longer as the person approaches the specific direction within a pre-defined range that includes the specific direction.

[0018] According to the fourth scheme, in the area where a person is detected, which is divided into multiple areas radiating outwards from the image forming device, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device at an early stage.

[0019] According to the fifth scheme, in a region adjacent to the region where a person is detected, which is divided into multiple regions radiating outwards from the image forming device, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device at an early stage.

[0020] According to the sixth scheme, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device at an earlier stage while reducing false detections.

[0021] According to the seventh scheme, the image forming apparatus can be effectively restored for people approaching from a pre-defined area.

[0022] According to the eighth scheme, the image forming apparatus can be effectively restored for people approaching from the region extending to both ends from the center of the image forming apparatus.

[0023] According to the ninth solution, energy efficiency can be improved while ensuring the convenience of the user. Attached Figure Description

[0024] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the image forming system of this embodiment;

[0025] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment;

[0026] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the detection area of ​​the human body sensor;

[0027] Figure 4 It is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the electrical state of the image forming apparatus;

[0028] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the recovery process of the image forming apparatus;

[0029] Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the detection distance of the human body sensor;

[0030] Figure 7 It is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate changes in the detection area;

[0031] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the movement of people;

[0032] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating another control example 1 of the image forming apparatus's recovery processing;

[0033] Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the changes in the detection area of ​​other control examples 1;

[0034] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating another control example 2 of the image forming apparatus's recovery processing;

[0035] Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the changes in the detection area of ​​other control examples 2;

[0036] Figure 13 It is a diagram showing the structure of the detection area, including the first region and the direct recovery region. Detailed Implementation

[0037] The embodiments of the present invention will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0038] <Structure of Image Forming Systems>

[0039] Figure 1 This is a diagram showing the structure of the image forming system 1 of this embodiment.

[0040] Image forming system 1 includes image forming apparatus 2 with various functions such as printing, scanning, and copying. Image forming apparatus 2 is envisioned to be installed in places with high foot traffic, such as offices or shared spaces.

[0041] <Structure of the image forming apparatus>

[0042] Figure 2 This is a diagram showing the structure of the image forming apparatus 2 in this embodiment.

[0043] The image forming apparatus 2 includes a control unit 10, a storage unit 20, and an operation unit 30. Additionally, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a display unit 40, an image reading unit 50, and an image forming unit 60. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a communication unit 70 and a human body sensor 100. These functional units are connected to a bus 101, via which data is transmitted and received.

[0044] The control unit 10 controls the aforementioned functional units in the image forming apparatus 2. The control unit 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111 as an arithmetic unit and RAM (Random Access Memory) 112 and ROM (Read Only Memory) 113 as storage units. RAM 112 is the main storage device (main memory), used as working memory when the CPU 111 performs arithmetic processing. The ROM 113 stores data such as programs or pre-prepared settings; the CPU 111 directly reads the program or data from the ROM 113 and executes it. Additionally, programs and data are also stored in the storage unit 20. The CPU 111 reads the program stored in the storage unit 20 into the RAM 112 and executes it.

[0045] In this embodiment, various functions are implemented by reading and executing programs through the CPU 111 of the control unit 10. Among the functions implemented in this embodiment, in addition to controlling the operation of each functional unit, there are also controls on the power state of the image forming apparatus 2 and the detection distance of the human body sensor 100. Details of these functions will be described later.

[0046] The storage unit 20 is a functional unit that, in addition to storing programs and data for execution by the CPU 111 as described above, also stores various data generated through various operations, such as image data read by the image reading unit 50. The storage unit 20 is implemented, for example, by a storage device such as a disk drive or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0047] The operation unit 30 is a functional unit that accepts user operations. The operation unit 30 may consist of, for example, hardware keys and a touch sensor that outputs control signals corresponding to the position of a finger pressing or touching the screen. Alternatively, it may be configured as a touch panel combining a touch sensor and a liquid crystal display constituting the display unit 40.

[0048] Display unit 40 is a functional unit that displays information images that prompt the user with various information, preview images of images that are to be processed such as read or output, and operation images for the user to operate. Display unit 40 is, for example, a liquid crystal display. The operation unit 30 and display unit 40 described above can be combined to serve as a user interface unit for the user to input and output information to the image forming apparatus 2.

[0049] The image reading unit 50 is a functional unit that optically reads images from the original document. As an image reading method, for example, CCD or CIS methods can be used. The CCD method uses a lens to reduce the reflected light from the light source that illuminates the original document and receives it using a CCD (Charge Coupled Device). The CIS method uses a CIS (Contact Image Sensor) to receive the reflected light from an LED (Light Emitting Diode) light source that sequentially illuminates the original document.

[0050] The image forming unit 60 is a functional unit that forms an image based on image data on a medium such as paper using an image forming material. As a method of forming an image on a medium, for example, an electrophotographic method is used, where a toner is used as the image forming material, and the toner attached to a photoreceptor is transferred onto the medium to form an image.

[0051] The communication unit 70 is a functional unit that transmits and receives commands and data with external devices. The communication unit 70 uses an interface corresponding to the communication method with the external device. Connection to the external device can be made via a network or through a direct connection. The communication line can be a wired line or a wireless line.

[0052] The human body sensor 100 is a sensor that detects the presence of a human in the vicinity of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0053] The human body sensor 100 can be a detection sensor, for example, that has an output unit that outputs a signal and a detection unit that detects the signal. In this case, the human body sensor 100 obtains different detection results depending on whether the detection unit detects the signal sent from the output unit.

[0054] Human body sensor 100 is any sensor that can detect the presence of moving objects such as humans, and can be applied to various sensors.

[0055] The human body sensor 100 can utilize sensors such as ultrasonic sensors, light sensors, radio wave sensors, and sensors that identify individuals using human body temperature. Additionally, there are methods that analyze images captured by various imaging units for identification. As an example of these sensors, one method involves a signal sent from an output unit reaching a person, and the detection unit detecting the reflected signal to detect the person's presence. In this method, if no reflected signal is detected, the person's presence is not detected.

[0056] For example, in an ultrasonic sensor, ultrasonic waves emitted from the output unit reach a person, and the detection unit receives the reflected ultrasonic waves, thereby performing detection. Similarly, in a light-based sensor, light projected from the output unit reaches a person, and the detection unit receives the reflected light, thereby performing detection. Furthermore, in a radio-wave-based sensor, radio waves emitted from the output unit reach a person, and the detection unit receives the reflected radio waves, thereby performing detection.

[0057] The human body sensor 100 of this embodiment has the function of adjusting the output intensity of the output unit. For example, by adjusting the output intensity of the output unit, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 can be changed. Specifically, when the output intensity is increased, the signal reaches a farther location, thus extending the detection distance. On the other hand, when the output intensity is decreased, the signal reaches a shorter distance, thus shortening the detection distance.

[0058] In this embodiment, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is switched to multiple preset values ​​by controlling the output intensity. These preset values ​​are stored in the detection distance table described later.

[0059] <Detection area of ​​human body sensor>

[0060] Figure 3 This is a diagram showing the detection area 200 of the human body sensor 100.

[0061] The human body sensor 100 outputs a signal, such as ultrasound, in a specific direction at a preset output intensity to detect the presence of a person within a specific range. Furthermore, the human body sensor 100 outputs this signal sequentially in multiple directions while changing its angle. Thus, the human body sensor 100 detects the presence of a person within a detection area 200 that extends in an arc shape centered on the image forming apparatus 2.

[0062] For example, the human body sensor 100 outputs a signal while changing its angle at intervals of approximately 10° within a range of approximately 0° to 120° centered on the device. Furthermore, this angle setting is one example, and other setting values ​​can also be changed.

[0063] As a method for controlling the output direction of the signal, one could consider rotating the output unit itself using a motor to change the output direction. Another method is to fix the output unit and use a mirror component whose angle can be adjusted by a motor to reflect the signal, thereby controlling the output direction.

[0064] Therefore, as Figure 3 As shown, a detection area 200 is formed that extends in an arc shape centered on the image forming apparatus 2. Furthermore, Figure 3 The detection area 200 shown is an example, and the detection range of the image forming apparatus 2 is not limited to this. The detection area 200 is set considering the environment in which the image forming apparatus 2 is set. The detection range can also be expanded or reduced by controlling the output direction of the control signal.

[0065] The detection area 200 consists of multiple areas corresponding to the directions of the output signal from the human body sensor 100, and each area can be understood as a "segmented area".

[0066] For example, in Figure 3 The diagram shows segmented regions 1 to 12. The human body sensor 100 outputs signals sequentially from segmented regions 1 to 12 to detect the presence of a person in each region. However, the output order of the signals is not limited to the above. For example, signals could also be output sequentially from segmented regions 12 to 1. Furthermore, the number of segmented regions is an example, but not limited to this.

[0067] Furthermore, areas outside the detection target can be preset. For example, if the image forming apparatus 2 is placed in a corner of a room or in a high-traffic area, the possibility of the human body sensor 100 reacting unnecessarily can be considered. In this case, by pre-limiting the detection range of the human body sensor 100, unwanted detection can be prevented.

[0068] For example, in the case of Figure 3 When the segmented regions 7 to 12 shown are not the objects to be detected, by adjusting the output direction of the output unit, it is possible to create a structure that can detect the presence of a person within the range of segmented regions 1 to 6. The human body sensor 100 detects the presence of a person within the detection area 200 by sequentially outputting signals according to each segmented region and repeating this process.

[0069] The human body sensor 100 in this embodiment can also be provided with multiple independent output units. For example, a structure can be adopted in which output units corresponding to each region are provided, and the presence of a person is detected in each region. In this case, a structure can be adopted as follows: Figure 3Taking the segmented regions 1 to 12 as an example, in order to explore each region independently, 12 output units corresponding to each region are set up and output signals in different directions. In this case, each region can be explored simultaneously, thereby improving detection accuracy. Alternatively, there is a structure where the number of output units is less than the number of segmented regions, and the angles of these multiple output units are changed to output signals.

[0070] <Electrical Status of the Image Forming Apparatus>

[0071] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the electrical state of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0072] The image forming apparatus 2 of this embodiment has multiple power modes with different power consumption levels. In other words, the image forming apparatus 2 can be set to multiple power states with different power consumption levels.

[0073] The image forming apparatus 2, for example, has a "minimum power state" as a first power state, which minimizes power consumption. This minimum power state is one of the power states used when the apparatus is not in operation in order to minimize power consumption. This minimum power state is sometimes referred to as a sleep state.

[0074] In the minimum power state, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 2 is suppressed to the minimum required level. In this minimum power state, only the minimum functionality of the human body sensor 100, a portion of the control unit 10, etc., is activated. As an example of this minimum power state, the operation of various functional units, such as the display unit 40, image reading unit 50, and image forming unit 60, is stopped, except for, for example, a portion of the operation unit 30 for recovery, the communication unit 70, etc. The operating state of each functional unit in the minimum power state is set considering the necessary operating state of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0075] Furthermore, the image forming apparatus 2 includes a "low power state" as a second power state, in which power consumption is greater than that of the minimum power state. This low power state allows the apparatus to recover more quickly and suppresses power consumption more effectively compared to the minimum power state. This low power state is characterized by power consumption less than that of the standby state (described later) and falls between the minimum power state and the standby state. The operating states of each functional unit in the low power state are set considering the necessary operating states of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0076] In addition, the image forming apparatus 2 has a "standby state" as a third power state, which enables various operations to be performed. This standby state is when each functional unit is activated and can perform operations when it receives an operation from the user. For example, it is a state where operations such as printing, scanning, and copying can be performed. In this standby state, in addition to turning on the display unit 40 to display the operation screen, power also needs to be supplied to the various functional units such as the image forming unit 60, thus increasing power consumption.

[0077] In this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 2 recovers from a minimum power state through a low power state to a standby state. Alternatively, the image forming apparatus 2 can also recover directly from a minimum power state to a standby state without going through a low power state.

[0078] <Recovery Processing of Image Forming Apparatus>

[0079] Next, use Figures 5-7 The control of the restoration process of the image forming apparatus 2 will be explained. This control is achieved by the CPU 111 of the control unit 10 reading and executing a program.

[0080] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the recovery process of the image forming apparatus 2. Figure 6 This is a diagram showing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100. Figure 6 (a) represents the table that stores the first detection distance B. Figure 6 (b) represents the table that stores the second detection distance A. Figure 7 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the changes in the detection area 200. Figure 7 (a) indicates the detection area 200 before the detection distance was changed. Figure 7 (b) indicates the detection area 200 after the detection distance is changed.

[0081] The detection area 200 before the change of detection distance will be referred to as "first area 200B". The detection area 200 after the change of detection distance will be referred to as "second area 200A".

[0082] When the image forming apparatus 2 is in standby mode with minimum power, the control unit 10 checks whether the human body sensor 100 has detected a person in the first region 200B (step S101). If the human body sensor 100 has not detected a person in the first region 200B ("No" in step S101), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode.

[0083] When the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the first area 200B ("Yes" in step S101), the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 (step S102). Here, the control unit 10 controls the human body sensor to shorten its detection distance.

[0084] Next, the control unit 10 sets the power state of the device to a low power state (step S103). Furthermore, the processes of steps S102 and S103 can be performed simultaneously or in reverse order.

[0085] Next, the control unit 10 confirms whether a person is detected in the second area 200A (step S104). If the human body sensor 100 does not detect a person in the second area 200A ("No" in step S104), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode. If the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the second area 200A ("Yes" in step S104), the control unit 10 sets the power state of the device to standby mode (step S105).

[0086] Through this series of processes, the image forming apparatus 2 gradually restores the device from a minimum power state to a standby state.

[0087] In this embodiment, the storage unit 20 stores multiple tables with set detection distances. During the determination in step S101, the table is used... Figure 6 The table shown in (a) contains the first detection distance B.

[0088] exist Figure 6 In the table shown in (a), "distance B1" is stored as the first detection distance B. Here, as an example of the first detection distance B, "distance B1: 200 (cm)" is shown. In step S101, as... Figure 7 As shown in (a), the human body sensor 100 detects the presence of a human in a first region 200B that extends in an arc shape with "distance B1" as a reference and centered on the device.

[0089] In step S102, when changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100, the following steps are taken: Figure 6 (b) shows a table storing the second detection distance A. Figure 6 In the table shown in (b), "distance A1" is stored as the second detection distance A. Here, as an example of the second detection distance A, "distance A1: 35 (cm)" is shown. In step S102, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to this "distance A1".

[0090] In the subsequent step S104, as Figure 7As shown in (b), the human body sensor 100 detects the presence of a person in a second region 200A that extends in an arc shape with "distance A1" as a reference and centered on the device.

[0091] Next, the process of resetting the second area 200A will be explained. After changing the detection area 200 to the second area 200A, if no person is detected in the second area 200A and a preset time has elapsed, the control unit 10 returns the detection area 200 to the first area 200B. At this time, the control unit 10 transfers the device to a minimum power state. Alternatively, a structure that transfers to the minimum power state after passing through a low power state can also be used. This process is performed in the following situations: although a person is detected in the first area 200B, no person is subsequently detected in the second area 200A; or a person leaves the second area 200A after performing work, etc.

[0092] exist Figure 6 In the table shown in (a), "Distance B1: 200 (cm)" is listed as the first detection distance B. However, this setting is an example set considering the energy efficiency of the image forming apparatus 2 and the convenience of the user, and is not a limitation. For example, the first detection distance B can be smaller than "200 (cm)", set to about "150 (cm)". In this case, since the detection range is smaller than when the first detection distance B is set to "200 (cm)", the number of startups due to false detection is reduced, thus reducing power consumption. Alternatively, the first detection distance B can be larger than "200 (cm)", set to about "250 (cm)". In this case, compared to the case where the first detection distance B is set to "200 (cm)", the presence of a person can be detected earlier, effectively changing the power state. This first detection distance B is set considering the location where the image forming apparatus 2 is installed, etc.

[0093] Similarly, in Figure 6 In the table shown in (b), "Distance A1: 35 (cm)" is given as the second detection distance A, but this setting is just one example and is not limited to this.

[0094] In this recovery process, when a person is detected in the first region 200B, the image forming apparatus 2 is temporarily restored to a low-power state. Therefore, it is not necessary to return the apparatus to standby mode, thus achieving energy saving.

[0095] In addition, the convenience of the user can also be ensured by adopting the following structure: a second area 200A is set that is smaller than the first area 200B, and the device returns to standby mode when a person is detected in the second area 200A.

[0096] <Other Control Example 1>

[0097] Next, use Figure 6 , Figures 8-10 Another control example 1 for the recovery processing of the image forming apparatus 2 will be described. This control example differs from the control described above in that, when changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100, a second detection distance A is set according to the movement line of the person. This control is implemented by the CPU 111 of the control unit 10 reading and executing the program.

[0098] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the movement of people.

[0099] When the image forming apparatus 2 is placed in an area with frequent foot traffic, people not only approach the apparatus to use it, but also pass by it. Furthermore, the movement paths of people approaching the apparatus are varied, including both straight-line and curved approaches.

[0100] For example, line A in the figure represents the movement path of a person approaching the image forming apparatus 2 in a straight line with the intention of using it. Line B represents the movement path of a person approaching the image forming apparatus 2 in a curved path with the intention of using it. Line C represents the movement path of a person approaching the image forming apparatus 2 from the side with the intention of using it. Line D represents the movement path of a person passing by the periphery of the image forming apparatus 2.

[0101] Figure 9 This is a flowchart illustrating another control example 1 of the recovery process of the image forming apparatus 2. Figure 10 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the changes in the detection area 200 in other control example 1. Figure 10 (a) indicates the detection area 200 before the detection distance was changed. Figure 10 (b) indicates the detection area 200 after the detection distance is changed.

[0102] When the image forming apparatus 2 is in standby mode with minimum power, the control unit 10 checks whether the human body sensor 100 has detected a person in the first region 200B (step S201). If the human body sensor 100 has not detected a person in the first region 200B ("No" in step S201), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode.

[0103] When the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the first region 200B ("Yes" in step S201), the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 to "distance A1" (step S202). Next, the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 to "distance A3" for a specific direction that connects the detected person location to the image forming apparatus 2 (step S203).

[0104] Next, the control unit 10 changes the power state of the device to a low power state (step S204). In addition, the processes from step S202 to step S204 can be performed simultaneously or in any order.

[0105] Next, the control unit 10 confirms whether the human body sensor 100 has detected a person in the second area 200A (step S205). If the human body sensor 100 does not detect a person in the second area 200A ("No" in step S205), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode. If the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the second area 200A ("Yes" in step S205), the control unit 10 changes the power state of the device to standby mode (step S206).

[0106] In this control example, the judgment in step S201 is also used. Figure 6 (a) shows a table storing the first detection distance B. In step S201, as... Figure 10 As shown in (a), the human body sensor 100 explores the presence of a human in a first region 200B based on “distance B1”.

[0107] At this time, the human body sensor 100 sequentially explores the first region 200B according to each segmented region, detecting the presence of a person. For example, as Figure 10 As shown in (a), the first region 200B is composed of segmented regions 1 to 12, and the human body sensor 100 explores segmented regions 1 to 12 in sequence.

[0108] In step S202, when changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100, the following steps are taken: Figure 6 (b) shows a table storing the second detection distance A. In this control example, two distance data, "distance A1" and "distance A3", are used as the second detection distance A. Furthermore, the lengths of the detection distances are in the relationship that "distance A1" < "distance A3". In step S202, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A1".

[0109] Furthermore, in this control example, in step S203, for the specific direction in which the detected person is connected to the image forming apparatus 2, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to a "distance A3" which is longer than "distance A1".

[0110] In the subsequent step S205, the human body sensor 100 explores the presence of a person in the second region 200A after changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100.

[0111] For example, consider the case in step S201 where the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the segmented region 5 of the first region 200B.

[0112] In this case, in step S202, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A1", and in step S203, for the segmented region 5 where a person is detected, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A3", which is longer than "distance A1".

[0113] Then, in step S205, as Figure 10 As shown in (b), the presence of a human is explored in the second region 200A after the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed.

[0114] In this control example, for the region corresponding to the specific direction where a person is detected and the image forming apparatus 2 is connected, the second detection distance A is extended compared to other regions where no person is detected. Therefore, as Figure 8 As shown, for a person who is approaching the image forming apparatus 2 in a straight line, the timing for detecting the person in the second region 200A can be improved earlier. As a result, the image forming apparatus 2 can be effectively restored, and convenience is improved.

[0115] <Other Control Example 2>

[0116] Next, use Figure 6 , Figure 8 , Figures 11-12 Another control example 2 for the recovery processing of the image forming apparatus 2 will be described. In this control example, the process for setting the second detection distance A differs from that in the other control example 1. This control is implemented by the CPU 111 of the control unit 10 reading and executing a program.

[0117] Figure 11 This is a flowchart illustrating another control example 2 of the recovery process of the image forming apparatus 2. Figure 12 This is an explanatory diagram used to illustrate the changes in the detection area 200 in other control example 2. Figure 12 (a) indicates the detection area 200 before the detection distance was changed. Figure 12 (b) indicates the detection area 200 after the detection distance is changed.

[0118] When the image forming apparatus 2 is in standby mode with minimum power, the control unit 10 checks whether the human body sensor 100 has detected a person in the first region 200B (step S301). If the human body sensor 100 has not detected a person in the first region 200B ("No" in step S301), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode.

[0119] When the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the first region 200B ("Yes" in step S301), the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 to "distance A1" (step S302). Next, for the region corresponding to the specific direction in which the detected person is connected to the image forming apparatus 2, the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 to "distance A3" (step S303). Furthermore, for both sides of the region corresponding to the detected person, the control unit 10 changes the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 to "distance A2" (step S304).

[0120] Next, the control unit 10 changes the power state of the device to a low power state (step S305). Furthermore, the processes from step S302 to step S305 can be performed simultaneously or in any order.

[0121] Next, the control unit 10 confirms whether the human body sensor 100 has detected a person in the second area 200A (step S306). If the human body sensor 100 does not detect a person in the second area 200A ("No" in step S306), the control unit 10 goes into standby mode. If the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the second area 200A ("Yes" in step S306), the control unit 10 changes the power state of the device to standby mode (step S307).

[0122] In this control example, the judgment in step S301 is also used. Figure 6 (a) shows a table storing the first detection distance B. In step S301, as... Figure 12 As shown in (a), the human body sensor 100 explores the presence of a person in a first region 200B based on "distance B1". At this time, the human body sensor 100 explores the first region 200B sequentially according to each segmented region.

[0123] Additionally, in step S302, when changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100, the following steps are taken: Figure 6 (b) shows a table storing the second detection distance A. In this control example, three distance data points, "distance A1", "distance A2", and "distance A3", are used as the second detection distance A. Furthermore, the lengths of the detection distances are in the relationship of "distance A1" < "distance A2" < "distance A3". In step S302, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A1".

[0124] Next, in step S303, for the area corresponding to the detected person, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A3".

[0125] Furthermore, in this control example, in step S304, for the area adjacent to the area corresponding to the detected person, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A2".

[0126] In the subsequent step S306, the human body sensor 100 explores the presence of a person in the second region 200A after changing the detection distance of the human body sensor 100.

[0127] For example, consider the case in step S301 where the human body sensor 100 detects a person in the segmented region 5 of the first region 200B.

[0128] In this case, in step S302, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A1", and in step S303, for the segmented region 5 where a person is detected, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to "distance A3", which is longer than "distance A1".

[0129] Additionally, in step S304, for segmented regions 4 and 6 adjacent to the segmented region 5 where a person is detected, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is changed to a distance A2 that is longer than distance A1.

[0130] In this case, such as Figure 12 As shown in (b), in segmented regions 1 to 3 and 7 to 12 of segmented regions 1 to 12, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is designated as "distance A1". Additionally, in segmented regions 4 and 6, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is designated as "distance A2". Furthermore, in the region where a person is detected, i.e., segmented region 5, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is designated as "distance A3".

[0131] In the subsequent step S306, the human body sensor 100 explores the presence of a person in the second region 200A after the detection distance is changed.

[0132] In this control example, the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 is controlled in such a way that, in addition to the segmented region corresponding to the area where the human body is detected and the image forming apparatus 2 are connected, the second detection distance A is extended for adjacent segmented regions adjacent to the segmented region. This can be understood as controlling the detection distance of the human body sensor 100 in such a way that, within a predetermined range including a specific direction in which the human body is detected and the image forming apparatus 2 are connected, the closer to that specific direction, the longer the distance at which the human body can be detected becomes. In this control example, as... Figure 8 As shown, for people whose curves are close to the image forming apparatus 2, it is also possible to detect people earlier in the second region 200A.

[0133] <Other Control Example 3>

[0134] In the control examples described above, the power state of the device is restored in stages. However, depending on the movement of the person assuming the use of the image forming apparatus 2, sometimes a rapid restoration of the device is required. In such cases, by allowing the device to directly restore from its minimum power state to the standby state, the convenience for the user can be improved.

[0135] In this control example, when a person is detected in a pre-defined area, the device directly returns to standby mode from its minimum power state. This pre-defined area will be referred to as "Direct Recovery Area 200C".

[0136] Here, we will use the example of a person approaching the image forming device 2 from the side. A person approaching the image forming device 2 from the side is considered to be more likely to use the image forming device 2 than a person passing in front of it. Therefore, we determine that the person approaching from the side is using the image forming device 2, and the device is directly restored from the minimum power state to the standby state.

[0137] Figure 13 This is a diagram showing the structure of the detection region 200, which includes the first region 200B and the direct recovery region 200C.

[0138] exist Figure 13 In this example, a first region 200B is set for segmented regions 2 to 11. Additionally, a direct recovery region 200C is set for segmented regions 1 and 12.

[0139] In this control example, if the presence of a person is detected in any of the segmented regions 2 to 11, the same processing as in any of the control examples described above is performed, causing the image forming apparatus 2 to recover in stages. On the other hand, if the human body sensor 100 detects the presence of a person in segmented region 1 or 12, the image forming apparatus 2 is directly restored from its minimum power state to the standby state. Thus, considering the movement path envisioned for using the image forming apparatus 2, an effective recovery operation can be performed.

[0140] In the above description, a direct recovery region 200C is provided for the segmented regions 1 and 12 extending towards both ends of the image forming apparatus 2, but this is not a limitation. The direct recovery region 200C may also be provided for any of the segmented regions 1 to 12. The direct recovery region 200C is set with consideration of the environment in which the image forming apparatus 2 is installed.

[0141] When the image forming apparatus 2 is located, for example, in an office where people can come from the left or right, by setting a direct recovery area 200C on the segmented areas 1 and 12 that extend outward from the center of the image forming apparatus 2, effective image recovery of the image forming apparatus 2, taking into account the movement of people, can be achieved.

[0142] In addition, if the image forming apparatus 2 is placed in a corner of an office, a structure in which the direct recovery area 200C is placed in either the segmented area 1 or 12 that extends to both ends of the image forming apparatus 2 can be adopted.

[0143] Furthermore, if the segmented region to which the image forming apparatus 2 is considered to be highly likely to be used, based on the environment in which the image forming apparatus 2 is provided, is, for example, segmented region 6 or 7, a structure in which a direct recovery region 200C is provided for segmented region 6 or 7 can be adopted.

[0144] The embodiments of the present invention have been described above, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the above embodiments. In this embodiment, the human body sensor 100 is built into the image forming apparatus 2, but a structure in which the human body sensor 100 is set separately from the image forming apparatus 2 is also possible. For example, a structure in which the human body sensor 100 is set around the device, on the ceiling of a room, etc., is also possible. In addition, a structure in which the signal from the human body sensor 100 is output in a 360° range can be adopted. Thus, the device can effectively recover the signal regardless of which direction a person approaches.

[0145] Furthermore, in this embodiment, the image forming apparatus 2 has been described as an example of a device for periodically changing the power state, but it is not limited thereto. For example, as a device that can set multiple power states of a device, it can be applied to various devices such as lighting equipment, air conditioning equipment, signage, and robots. In addition, various modifications and structural substitutions that do not depart from the technical concept of the present invention are included in the present invention.

[0146] (Postscript) (((1)))

[0148] An image forming system includes a processor, characterized in that, when a human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the human body sensor, the processor controls the human body sensor to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance shorter than the first region, and restores an image forming apparatus in a first power state to a second power state with a higher power state than the first power state; and when a person is detected in the second region, the processor restores the image forming apparatus to a third power state with a higher power state than the second power state. (((2)))

[0150] According to the image forming system described in ((1)), the processor controls the human body sensor in the following manner when a person is detected in the first region: for a specific direction connecting the detected person location and the image forming apparatus, the person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance; and when a person is detected by the human body sensor under the control, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state. (((3)))

[0152] According to the image forming system described in ((2)), the processor controls the human body sensor in the following manner when a person is detected in the first region: the distance at which a person can be detected becomes longer as the distance is closer to the specific direction within a predetermined range including the specific direction; and when a person is detected by the human body sensor under the control, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state. (((4)))

[0154] The image forming system according to any one of ((1))) to ((3))) is characterized in that the processor divides the first region into a plurality of regions radially centered on the image forming apparatus, and when a person is detected by the human body sensor in any of the divided regions, the human body sensor is controlled in the following manner: for the segmented region where a person is detected, the person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance; when a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state. (((5)))

[0156] According to the image forming system described in ((4)), the processor controls the human body sensor in the following manner: for adjacent segmented regions in other segmented regions that are different from the segmented region where the human body was detected, a human body is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance; when a human body is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state. (((6)))

[0158] According to the image forming system described in ((5)), the processor controls the human body sensor in such a way that, for the adjacent segmented regions, a person is detected at a distance shorter than the segmented region where the person was detected. (((7)))

[0160] The image forming system according to any one of ((1))) to ((6))) is characterized in that, when the processor detects a person in a predetermined area by the human body sensor, it restores the image forming apparatus from the first power state to the third power state. (((8)))

[0162] According to the image forming system described in ((7)), the pre-defined region is characterized in that it extends from the image forming device to both ends.

[0163] According to the image forming system (((1)), it is possible to improve energy efficiency while ensuring the convenience of people who may use the device.

[0164] According to the image forming system ((2)), compared to the case where the structure is not as follows, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device from a greater distance: when a person is detected in the first region, the person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance for a specific direction in which the person is detected and the image forming device are connected.

[0165] According to the image forming system of ((3)), compared with the case that is not the following structure, it is possible to expand the range from which a person can be detected from a greater distance with a specific direction as the center: when a person is detected in the first region, the distance from which a person can be detected becomes longer as the person gets closer to the specific direction within a predetermined range including the specific direction.

[0166] According to the image forming system ((4)), in the area where a person is detected, which is divided into multiple areas radiating outwards from the image forming device, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device at an early stage.

[0167] According to the image forming system ((5)), in the region adjacent to the region where a person is detected, which is divided into multiple regions radiating outward from the image forming device, it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may use the device at an early stage.

[0168] According to the image forming system ((6)), it is possible to detect the approach of a person who may be using the device at an early stage while reducing false detections.

[0169] According to the image forming system ((7)), the image forming device can effectively recover images of people approaching from a pre-set area.

[0170] According to the image forming system ((8)), it is possible to effectively restore the image forming device for people approaching from the region extending from the center of the image forming device to both ends.

Claims

1. An image forming system comprising a processor, characterized in that, The processor When a human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the sensor, the sensor is controlled to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance shorter than the first region. This controls the image forming apparatus, which is in a first power state, to return to a second power state with a higher power state than the first power state. When a person is detected in the second region, the image forming apparatus is restored to a third power state, which is higher than the second power state.

2. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein, The processor When a person is detected in the first region, the human body sensor is controlled as follows: for a specific direction connecting the detected person location and the image forming apparatus, the person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance. When a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled as described, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

3. The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein, The processor When a person is detected in the first area, the human body sensor is controlled such that, within a predetermined range including the specific direction, the distance at which a person can be detected increases as the person approaches that specific direction. When a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled as described, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

4. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein, The processor The first region is divided into multiple radial regions centered on the image forming apparatus. When a person is detected by the human body sensor in any of the divided regions, the human body sensor is controlled as follows: for the segmented region where a person is detected, the person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance. When a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled as described, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

5. The image forming system according to claim 4, wherein, The processor The human body sensor is controlled as follows: for adjacent segmented regions in other segmented regions different from the segmented region where a person was detected, a person is detected in the second region at a distance longer than the second distance. When a person is detected by the human body sensor that has been controlled as described, the image forming apparatus is restored to the third power state.

6. The image forming system according to claim 5, wherein, The processor The human body sensor is controlled in the following manner: for each adjacent segmented region, a person is detected at a distance shorter than the segmented region where the person was detected.

7. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein, The processor When a person is detected in a pre-defined area by the human body sensor, the image forming apparatus, which is in the first power state, is restored to the third power state.

8. The image forming system according to claim 7, wherein, The pre-defined region is set to extend outwards from the image forming apparatus at both ends.

9. An image forming method, characterized in that, It has the following processes: When a human body sensor detects a person in a first region at a distance of a first distance from the human body sensor, the human body sensor is controlled to detect a person in a second region at a distance of a second distance from the human body sensor that is shorter than the first region, and the image forming apparatus in a first power state is restored to a second power state that is higher than the first power state. as well as When a person is detected in the second region, the image forming apparatus is restored to a third power state, which is higher than the second power state.

Images