Image forming device, storage medium, computer program product, and method

Abstract

An image forming device, a storage medium, a computer program product, and an image forming method, characterized in that they include: a loading surface provided on a main body and on which paper is placed; a person detection unit provided on the main body; a processor for controlling the recovery of the main body from a sleep state based on detection of a person by the person detection unit, and when transitioning to the sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection objects of the person detection unit are set to include a person approaching the main body but not a person passing by the main body, and when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection objects are set to include the person approaching and the person passing by; and a notification unit for notifying that paper remains when there is paper on the loading surface after the recovery.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming device, a storage medium and an image forming method. Background Art

[0002] Image forming devices are known that include a light emitter that supports the processing of paper sheets that have completed image formation. By illuminating the light emitter, a user is notified of the ejection of paper or the presence of ejected paper. Alternatively, the light emitter illuminates the ejected paper or its surrounding area. For example, a paper sensor is embedded in a loading surface such as a paper ejection tray. When the paper sensor detects paper, the light emitter is illuminated. However, when the image forming device transitions to a sleep mode to save power, the light emitter is turned off.

[0003] On the other hand, an image forming device equipped with a human presence sensor is known (for example, see Patent Document 1). In this image forming device, when in sleep mode, the human presence sensor detects a user approaching the image forming device body, triggering the user to automatically resume operation from sleep mode. This improves user convenience. However, people who simply pass near the image forming device body are excluded from detection. This is to avoid excessive or unnecessary resumption of operation.

[0004] Normally, in the sleep mode, no power is supplied to the paper sensor or light emitter. In this state, when an approaching person appears, the image forming apparatus resumes its sleep mode, at which point power is supplied to the paper sensor and light emitter. At this point, as long as paper remains on the placement surface, the light emitter illuminates to indicate that paper remains. Furthermore, Patent Document 2 describes an image forming apparatus that notifies users that they have forgotten to remove a document when resuming from power-saving mode.

[0005] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2013-033050

[0006] Patent Document 2: Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2017-118255

[0007] In an image forming device that automatically resumes from sleep mode upon detecting a person, to improve the convenience of those actually using the device, only those approaching the device or those passing by are targeted for detection during sleep mode. That is, those passing by are excluded from the detection targets that trigger resumption. However, if paper remains on a loading surface such as a paper output tray, for example, after resuming from sleep mode, it is desirable to notify a wider range of people of the remaining paper, specifically not only those approaching but also those passing by. Summary of the Invention

[0008] An object of the present invention is to notify a person who passes by in a sleep state that paper remains.

[0009] The image forming device involved in Scheme 1 is characterized in that it includes: a loading surface, which is provided on the main body and on which paper is placed; a person detection unit, which is provided on the main body; a processor, which controls the recovery of the main body from a sleep state based on the detection of a person based on the person detection unit, and when transitioning to the sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, it is set so that the detection object of the person detection unit includes a person approaching the main body but does not include a person passing by the main body, and when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, it is set so that the detection object includes the person approaching and the person passing by; and a notification unit, which notifies that paper remains when there is paper on the loading surface after the recovery.

[0010] The image forming device involved in Scheme 2 is characterized in that, in the image forming device described in Scheme 1, when the transition is performed, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the human detection unit is set to a limited detection range for including the approaching person but not the passing person in the detection object; when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the human detection unit is set to an expanded detection range for including the approaching person and the passing person in the detection object, and the expanded detection range is larger than the limited detection range.

[0011] The image forming device involved in Scheme 3 is the image forming device described in Scheme 2, characterized in that the person detection unit includes: a limited human sensing sensor having the limited detection range; and an expanded human sensing sensor having the expanded detection range. When the transition is performed, when there is no paper on the loading surface, the person is detected in the sleep state based on the output of the limited human sensing sensor. When the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, the person is detected in the sleep state based on the output of the expanded human sensing sensor.

[0012] The image forming device involved in Scheme 4 is the image forming device described in Scheme 2, characterized in that the human detection unit includes: a primary human sensing sensor; and a secondary human sensing sensor, which is activated according to the output of the primary human sensing sensor. When the transition is performed, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the secondary human sensing sensor is set to the limited detection range. When the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the secondary human sensing sensor is set to the expanded detection range.

[0013] The image forming device involved in Scheme 5 is the image forming device described in Scheme 4, characterized in that when the transition is performed, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the primary human sensing sensor is set to the first primary detection range, and when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, the detection range of the primary human sensing sensor is set to the second primary detection range that is larger than the first primary detection range.

[0014] The image forming device involved in Scheme 6 is characterized in that, in the image forming device described in Scheme 1, the person detection unit includes a human sensor, and when the transition is performed, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, when the output signal of the human sensor satisfies the first judgment condition for including the approaching person but not the passing person in the detection object, the recovery is performed; when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, when the output signal of the human sensor satisfies the second judgment condition for including the approaching person and the passing person in the detection object, the recovery is performed, and the second judgment condition is a condition that is looser than the first judgment condition.

[0015] The image forming device involved in Scheme 7 is the image forming device described in Scheme 6, characterized in that the first judgment condition and the second judgment condition are both conditions for obtaining a continuous output of i specified person detection values as the output signal of the human sensing sensor, and by applying the first judgment condition, the sampling period of the output signal is set to the first period, and by applying the second judgment condition, the sampling period of the output signal is set to the second period shorter than the first period.

[0016] In the image forming device involved in Scheme 8, in the image forming device described in Scheme 6, the first judgment condition is to find the condition for continuously outputting j person detection values as the output signal of the human sensing sensor, and the second judgment condition is to find the condition for continuously outputting k person detection values less than the j number as the output signal of the human sensing sensor.

[0017] The image forming apparatus according to claim 9 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the placement surface is a paper discharge tray provided in a cavity portion of the main body, and the notification portion includes a light emitter that irradiates light toward the paper discharge tray.

[0018] The image forming device involved in Scheme 10 is the image forming device described in Scheme 9, characterized in that a plurality of paper discharge trays are provided in the cavity portion, the light emitter irradiates light toward the plurality of paper discharge trays, and when the transition is performed, when there is paper on at least one of the plurality of paper discharge trays, in the sleep state, the detection objects include the approaching person and the passing person.

[0019] The image forming apparatus according to claim 11 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the notification portion switches the light emission state according to the state of remaining paper in the plurality of paper discharge trays.

[0020] The image forming device involved in Scheme 12 is the image forming device described in Scheme 9, characterized in that a plurality of paper discharge trays are provided in the cavity portion, the light emitter irradiates light toward the plurality of paper discharge trays, and when the transition is performed, when there is paper on the paper discharge tray specified from the plurality of paper discharge trays, in the sleep state, the detection objects include the approaching person and the passing person.

[0021] The image forming apparatus according to claim 13 is the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notification unit includes at least one of a light emitter, a display, and a speaker for notifying that the paper remains.

[0022] The image forming device involved in Scheme 14 is characterized in that it includes a person detection unit; a unit that, when transitioning to a sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface, is set in the sleep state so that the detection object of the person detection unit includes a person approaching the image forming device body but does not include a person passing by the image forming device body; a unit that, when making the transition, when there is paper on the loading surface, is set in the sleep state so that the detection object includes the person approaching but does not include the person passing by; a unit that controls recovery from the sleep state when the person is detected in the sleep state; and a unit that notifies that there is paper remaining when there is paper on the loading surface after the recovery.

[0023] The storage medium involved in Scheme 15 stores a program executed in an image forming device, and is characterized in that it includes: when transitioning to a sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, a function is set to include a person approaching the image forming device body but not a person passing by the image forming device body in the detection object of the person detection unit; when making the transition, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, a function is set to include the person approaching and the person passing by in the detection object; in the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, a function of controlling recovery from the sleep state; and when there is paper on the loading surface after the recovery, a function of notifying that there is paper remaining.

[0024] The image forming method involved in Scheme 16 is characterized in that it includes: when transitioning to a sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, a step of setting the detection object of the person detection unit to include a person approaching the image forming device body but not a person passing by the image forming device body; when performing the transition, when there is paper on the loading surface, in the sleep state, a step of setting the detection object to include the person approaching and the person passing by; in the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, a step of controlling recovery from the sleep state; and when there is paper on the loading surface after the recovery, a step of notifying that paper remains.

[0025] Effects of the Invention

[0026] According to the image forming apparatus of the first aspect of the present invention, when a person passes by in the sleep state, the person is notified that paper remains.

[0027] According to the image forming apparatus of the second aspect of the present invention, the detection range of the person detection unit is changed to notify the passing person that paper remains.

[0028] According to the image forming apparatus of the third aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed using two detection sensors having different detection ranges.

[0029] According to the image forming apparatus of the fourth aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed by changing the secondary detection range.

[0030] According to the image forming apparatus of the fifth aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed by changing the primary detection range and the secondary detection range.

[0031] According to the image forming apparatus of the sixth aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed by changing the determination condition.

[0032] According to the image forming apparatus of the seventh aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed by changing the sampling period.

[0033] According to the image forming apparatus of the eighth aspect of the present invention, the detection target is changed by changing the value to be compared with the consecutive number of human detection values.

[0034] According to the image forming apparatus of the ninth aspect of the present invention, the remaining paper is notified by irradiating light into the cavity.

[0035] According to the image forming apparatus of the tenth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus notifies the user of the remaining paper in any one of the plurality of paper discharge trays.

[0036] According to the image forming apparatus of the eleventh aspect of the present invention, the remaining state of paper can be identified based on the light emission state.

[0037] According to the image forming apparatus of the twelfth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to notify the designated paper discharge tray that paper remains.

[0038] According to the image forming apparatus of the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the remaining paper is notified visually or auditorily.

[0039] According to the image forming apparatus of the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the storage medium of the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, and the image forming method of the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, when a person passes by in the sleep state, the person is notified that paper remains. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0040] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0041] Figure 1 is a perspective view showing a configuration example of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0042] Figure 2 is a block diagram showing an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment;

[0043] Figure 3 is a schematic diagram for explaining the detection of approaching persons and passing persons;

[0044] Figure 4 It is a timing diagram that represents a sequence of actions;

[0045] Figure 5 is a flowchart showing the actions when transitioning to the sleep state;

[0046] Figure 6 is a flow chart showing a first embodiment;

[0047] Figure 7 is a flow chart showing a second embodiment;

[0048] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing another structural example (third embodiment) of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment;

[0049] Figure 9 1 is a schematic diagram showing the detection of a passing person and an approaching person in the fourth embodiment;

[0050] Figure 10 1 is a schematic diagram showing the detection of a passing person and an approaching person in the fourth embodiment;

[0051] Figure 11 is a flowchart showing a fourth embodiment;

[0052] Figure 12 1 is a schematic diagram showing the detection of a passing person and an approaching person in the fifth embodiment;

[0053] Figure 13 1 is a schematic diagram showing the detection of a passing person and an approaching person in the fifth embodiment;

[0054] Figure 14 is a flowchart showing a fifth embodiment;

[0055] Figure 15 is a diagram for explaining selection of a notification target;

[0056] Figure 16 A diagram for explaining a plurality of light emission modes.

[0057] Explanation of symbols

[0058] 10-image forming device, 12-image reading unit, 14-UI unit, 16-image forming unit, 24-cavity portion, 26-upper paper discharge tray, 28-lower paper discharge tray, 30, 32-paper sensors, 34-light emitter, 36-light beam, 40-first human sensing sensor, 42-second human sensing sensor, 44, 46-detection range, 52-processor, 62-monitoring control unit, 66-status control unit, 68-light emission control unit. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0059] Hereinafter, embodiments will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0060] (1) Overview of Implementation

[0061] An image forming apparatus according to an embodiment includes a loading surface, a person detection unit, a processor, and a notification unit. The loading surface is provided on the main body and is where paper, the notification object, is placed. The person detection unit is provided on the main body and detects a person for the purpose of resuming the image forming apparatus. The processor controls the main body's resumption from a sleep state based on the person detection by the person detection unit, and serves as a control unit. Person detection is not simply the detection of a person, but rather the detection of a person as an event leading to resumption. Specifically, when transitioning to a sleep state, if there is no paper on the loading surface (i.e., "no paper transition"), the processor configures the person detection unit to include persons approaching the main body in its detection targets, but not persons passing near the main body. Furthermore, when there is paper on the loading surface during the transition (i.e., "paper transition"), the processor configures the person detection unit to include persons approaching and passing within its detection targets. If paper is present on the loading surface after resumption, the notification unit notifies the user of any remaining paper.

[0062] As described above, when paper is transferred, the recovery condition is set to notify passers-by, in addition to those approaching, that paper remains, and recovery control is executed according to this condition. Thus, after recovery, not only those approaching but also those passing by are notified of the remaining paper. For example, if paper is ejected onto the loading surface at night due to fax reception, and a person commuting to work in the morning passes near the image forming device, the image forming device automatically recovers and notifies them of the remaining paper, prompting them to process the necessary transactions for the paper.

[0063] In the image forming apparatus involved in the embodiment, the concept of the loading surface includes the surface on which the paper on which the image formation has been completed is placed, and includes the surface on which the paper after the image reading is placed. The loading surface is, for example, a paper discharge tray inside the main body, a paper discharge tray outside the main body, an original document tray, and a platen. The paper on the loading surface can be directly detected by a paper sensor, etc., or it can be indirectly detected by a sensor, etc. that determines the movement or posture of the parts covering or surrounding the loading surface. The main body is a part having a loading surface and a person detection part, which is generally understood to be a part accessed by the user or a main part of the image forming apparatus, such as a part having an image forming unit and / or an image reading unit. The person detection part is a subsystem that detects approaching persons and passing persons, and its concept can include one or more sensors, signal processing circuits, and judgment units. As described in detail later, the concept of the processor includes various hardware, devices, circuits or equipment that perform data processing.

[0064] The terms "approacher" and "passer" are relative concepts distinguished by sensing, signal processing, or judgment. For example, when the direction of body movement is used as the judgment criterion, a person approaching the subject is considered an approacher, while a person passing near the subject but moving in a different direction from the subject is considered a passer. When the distance between the subject and the body is used as the judgment criterion, a person approaching the subject is considered an approacher, while a person approaching the subject to some extent but not close to the subject is considered a passer. Movement speed, movement path, body direction, and the like can also be used as judgment criteria. Multiple judgment criteria can also be used in combination.

[0065] For example, by switching the detection range, switching the signal processing conditions, or switching the judgment conditions, the person or the range of the detection object is switched. If we consider it from another angle, it can be understood that the person detected in the dormant state when there is no paper transition is the approaching person, and the person detected in the dormant state when there is paper transition is the approaching person and the passer-by. Regarding person detection, the passer-by and the approaching person can be strictly distinguished, or the passer-by and the approaching person can be partially overlapped. In short, when there is no paper transition, priority is given to avoiding the need for recovery or saving power, etc. On the other hand, when there is paper transition, the person detection condition as the recovery condition is set in a way that notifies more people of the remaining paper than when there is no paper transition.

[0066] The sleep state is a state in which power consumption is further reduced compared to the previous state and the state after recovery. Typically, it is a state in which some functions required for recovery (e.g., the person detection unit and the recovery control unit) are in operation. Typically, in the sleep state, all or part of the person detection unit is functional, thereby enabling the person detection unit to detect people. While recovery is generally a transitional state, in this application specification, for simplicity of description, the transition from the operating state to the sleep state is referred to as "transition," and the transition from the sleep state to the operating state is referred to as "recovery."

[0067] In the embodiment, when no paper is passing, in the sleep mode, the detection range of the person detection unit is set to a limited detection range that includes approaching persons but excludes passing persons. On the other hand, when paper is passing, in the sleep mode, the detection range of the person detection unit is set to an expanded detection range that includes approaching persons and passing persons. The expanded detection range is a range that is spatially larger than the limited detection range.

[0068] The above structure changes the detection object of the human detection unit by switching or changing the detection range. The human detection unit detects objects using light (including infrared rays), ultrasonic waves, radio waves, etc. Therefore, as a sensor, any of active sensors and passive sensors can be used. The change of the detection range can be carried out by various methods, and can be carried out by switching the sensor, changing the transmission power, changing the receiving gain, changing the comparison threshold, etc. The detection range is limited to a relatively smaller range, and the detection range is expanded to a relatively larger range. When comparing the sizes of two detection ranges, the volume sizes of the two detection ranges in three-dimensional space can be compared, and the sizes of the two projection images when the two detection ranges are projected onto a horizontal plane can be compared.

[0069] Alternatively, a person detection unit may be employed that includes a limited person detection sensor with a limited detection range and an expanded person detection sensor with an expanded detection range. With this configuration, when no paper is passing, the limited person detection sensor detects a person in a dormant state based on its output. On the other hand, when paper is passing, the expanded person detection sensor detects a person in a dormant state based on its output. This configuration changes the detection target by switching sensors or selecting sensor outputs.

[0070] Alternatively, a person detection unit may be employed that includes a primary human sensor and a secondary human sensor activated based on the output of the primary sensor. With this configuration, when no paper is passing, the secondary human sensor's detection range is limited in its sleep state. On the other hand, when paper is passing, the secondary human sensor's detection range is expanded in its sleep state. This configuration, based on the combination of a primary human sensor and a secondary human sensor activated based on its output, changes the detection target by changing at least the detection range of the secondary human sensor.

[0071] When no paper is passing, the primary human sensor's detection range is set to the first primary detection range in the sleep state. On the other hand, when paper is passing, the primary human sensor's detection range can be set to a second primary detection range that is larger than the first primary detection range in the sleep state. This configuration, combined with the change in the secondary human sensor's detection range, changes the primary human sensor's detection range. When paper is passing, more people are considered passersby.

[0072] Alternatively, when no paper is passing, in the sleep state, if the output signal of the human sensor satisfies a first determination condition, which includes an approaching person but not a passing person, then recovery is executed. On the other hand, when paper is passing, in the sleep state, if the output signal of the human sensor satisfies a second determination condition, which includes an approaching person and a passing person, then recovery is executed. Here, the second determination condition is a condition that is easier to satisfy than the first determination condition.

[0073] The above structure changes the detection target by changing or switching the judgment condition. The first judgment condition and the second judgment condition are relative terms. The second judgment condition is easier to meet than the first judgment condition, that is, it is not a strict condition. For example, by lowering the judgment threshold, the judgment condition becomes easier to meet. Examples of such thresholds include a detection cycle threshold and a detection count threshold.

[0074] For example, both the first and second determination conditions require that a predetermined number of i person detection values be continuously output as the output signal of the human sensor. Applying the first determination condition sets the output signal sampling period to a first period, while applying the second determination condition sets the output signal sampling period to a second period that is shorter than the first period. A shorter sampling period makes it easier to obtain more person detection values per unit time. In this case, person detection is easier than with a longer sampling period. i is an integer greater than 2.

[0075] For example, the first determination condition is to determine if the sensor outputs j consecutive person detection values, while the second determination condition is to determine if the sensor outputs k consecutive person detection values, fewer than j, as the sensor outputs. Lowering the thresholds (specifically, j and k) used to compare the number of consecutive person detection values allows for fewer consecutive person detections. Because k is smaller than j, the number of detection targets increases when there is a paper transition compared to when there is no paper transition. j is an integer greater than 2, and k is an integer greater than 1. The relationship j > k holds.

[0076] However, regarding the recovery, a configuration may be adopted in which a plurality of modes are prepared, such as a mode giving priority to the remaining paper notification and a mode giving priority to power saving, and the user can select any one of the modes.

[0077] In an embodiment, the loading surface is a paper discharge tray disposed within a cavity of the main body. The notification unit includes a light emitter that illuminates the paper discharge tray. When paper is present on the paper discharge tray within the cavity, the paper and its surroundings tend to darken, and the area where the paper can be visually identified is often limited. This makes it difficult to detect the paper. Illuminating this paper discharge tray facilitates removal and makes the presence of the paper more easily detectable.

[0078] In an embodiment, multiple paper discharge trays are provided in the cavity. Light emitters illuminate the multiple paper discharge trays. During a transition, if paper is present on at least one of the multiple paper discharge trays, the detection targets in the sleep state include both approaching and passing objects. Generally, sharing the light emitter reduces the number of components.

[0079] The notification unit can also switch its lighting state based on the amount of paper remaining in the multiple paper output trays. This is the portion that notifies the user of the remaining paper using the lighting state. As will be shown in the following specific examples, switching the lighting state includes changing brightness, hue, and lighting mode.

[0080] In one embodiment, multiple paper discharge trays are provided in the cavity. A light emitter illuminates the multiple paper discharge trays. During a transition, if paper is present on a designated paper discharge tray from among the multiple paper discharge trays, the detection targets can also include approaching and passing persons in the sleep mode. This configuration prioritizes notification of paper remaining on a specific paper discharge tray. It is also possible to designate a paper discharge tray for paper requiring prompt processing or for more important paper.

[0081] The image forming apparatus according to the embodiment includes a person detection unit, a first control unit, a second control unit, a third control unit, and a notification unit. When transitioning to a sleep state, when there is no paper on the loading surface (i.e., when there is no paper transition), the first control unit is configured in the sleep state so that the detection objects of the person detection unit include a person approaching the image forming apparatus body but do not include a person passing by the image forming apparatus body. When transitioning, when there is paper on the loading surface (i.e., when there is paper transition), the second control unit is configured in the sleep state so that the detection objects include the person approaching and a person passing by. When a person is detected in the sleep state, the third control unit controls recovery from the sleep state. When there is paper on the loading surface after recovery, the notification unit notifies that paper remains.

[0082] The method involved in the embodiment includes a first control process, a second control process, a third control process and a notification process. The first control process is a process in which, when transitioning to a sleep state, there is no paper on the loading surface (i.e., when there is no paper transition), in the sleep state, the detection objects of the person detection unit include a person approaching the image forming device body but do not include a person passing by the image forming device body. The second control process is a process in which, when transitioning, there is paper on the loading surface (i.e., when there is paper transition), in the sleep state, the detection objects include a person approaching and a person passing by. The third control process is a process in which, in the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, a recovery from the sleep state is controlled. The notification process is a process in which, when recovery is performed, a person is notified that there is paper on the loading surface.

[0083] The above method is implemented as a hardware function or a software function. In the latter case, a program for executing the above method is installed in an information processing device via a portable recording medium or via a network. The concept of information processing device includes various devices with image forming functions.

[0084] (2) Details of implementation methods

[0085] exist Figure 1 2 shows an example configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment. The illustrated image forming apparatus 10 is a multifunctional device having functions such as printing, scanning, copying, and faxing. The techniques described below may be incorporated into an image forming apparatus having some of these functions or other functions.

[0086] The image forming apparatus 10 has a plurality of operation modes. Specifically, it has a limited notification mode for notifying a limited number of persons to whom paper remains when resuming from a sleep state, and an expanded notification mode for notifying a larger number of persons to whom paper remains when resuming.

[0087] When limited notification mode is selected, regardless of whether or not paper remains on the designated placement surface at the time of transition to the sleep state, that is, regardless of whether "no paper is in transit" or "paper is in transit," only persons approaching or passing near the image forming apparatus 10 in the sleep state are detected as detection targets for triggering resumption. The system resumes from the sleep state to the operating state only when a person is detected. At this time, as long as there is paper on the designated placement surface, the person is notified of the remaining paper.

[0088] When the expanded notification mode is selected, if there is no paper remaining on the designated loading surface during the transition to the sleep state, that is, if there is no paper transfer, the same behavior as when the limited notification mode is selected is performed. That is, in the sleep state, only approaching persons are detected, and recovery is performed only when an approaching person appears. When the expanded notification mode is selected, if there is paper remaining on the designated loading surface during the transition to the sleep state, that is, if there is paper transfer, both approaching persons and passing persons are detected during the sleep state, and recovery is initiated from the sleep state when either is detected. At the time of recovery, as long as there is paper on the designated loading surface, the remaining paper is notified not only to the approaching person but also to passing persons.

[0089] The following describes the structure and operation of the image forming apparatus 10 based on the assumption that the expanded notification mode is selected. In addition, various embodiments can be considered for detecting a person in a sleeping state. In the first to fifth embodiments described below, Figure 1 The contents of represent the first embodiment. Figure 1 In the diagram, the x direction is the first horizontal direction, which is the depth direction or the front-back direction, the y direction is the second horizontal direction, which is the left-right direction, and the z direction is the vertical direction, which is the up-down direction. These three directions are orthogonal to each other.

[0090] exist Figure 1 In the embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a plurality of functionally and physically distinguished units. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a main body 11 which constitutes a main part or a basic part. The main body 11 has a generally box-shaped form as a whole. In the illustrated configuration example, it includes an image reading unit 12, a UI (User Interface) unit 14, and an image forming unit 16. A control unit or a sensor substrate is also provided in the main body 11, but in the embodiment, the main body 11 is not provided with a control unit or a sensor substrate. Figure 1 Not shown in the figure.

[0091] In the illustrated configuration, the image reading unit 12 is composed of an upper reading unit 12A and a lower reading unit 12B. The upper reading unit 12A includes an automatic document feeder or automatic document reader that sequentially feeds multiple documents while reading images from each document. The upper reading unit 12A includes a document tray for placing the document to be read and a paper discharge tray for discharging the read document. Each of these trays is provided with a paper sensor for determining the presence of paper, but in the Figure 1 The upper reading unit 12A opens and closes with the hinge portion provided on the back side of the main body 11 as the rotation axis. An opening and closing sensor (not shown) is provided on the hinge portion.

[0092] The lower reading unit 12B reads an image from a document placed on the platen 18. When a document is placed on the platen 18, the entire platen 18 is covered by the upper reading unit 12A. In this case, the upper reading unit 12A functions as a document table cover. If any document remains on the platen 18 after image reading, the presence of the document can be determined based on the output signal of the opening / closing sensor. Alternatively, the presence of the document can be determined by illuminating the document from within the platen 18 with light.

[0093] The UI unit 14 has a touch panel 20. It includes a display and an input device. A detachable touch panel 20 can also be used. In this case, a so-called tablet terminal can also be used as the touch panel 20. The above-mentioned display is, for example, an LCD, which has a backlight. The button group 22 includes a power button and a power saving button. If the power saving button is operated, a transition to a sleep state occurs. The transition to the sleep state may also be caused by other events such as timeout. In the sleep state, when a recovery event occurs, the sleep state is restored to the operating state. The recovery event includes the operation of the power saving button and the reception of the print task, and also includes the detection of a person described in detail below.

[0094] The image forming unit 16 is a unit that forms an image on paper using an electrophotographic method, and includes a transfer unit, a fixing unit, etc. A plurality of paper feed trays are provided below the image forming unit 16 .

[0095] In the main body 11, a transverse groove-shaped cavity portion 24 is formed between the image forming unit 16 and the lower reading unit 12B. The x-direction side surface and the y-direction side surface of the cavity portion 24 are open surfaces. In the illustrated structural example, an upper paper discharge tray 26 and a lower paper discharge tray 28 are provided in the cavity portion 24. Paper discharged after image formation is placed on these trays. Alternatively, only one of the upper paper discharge tray 26 and the lower paper discharge tray 28 may be provided, for example, only the latter. In addition, the several trays already described (including the paper discharge trays 26 and 28) and the platen 18 are respectively paper loading surfaces.

[0096] A paper sensor 30 is provided on the upper paper discharge tray 26, and the level of its output signal is used to determine whether there is paper on the upper paper discharge tray 26. A paper sensor 32 is provided on the lower paper discharge tray 28, and the level of its output signal is used to determine whether there is paper on the lower paper discharge tray 28. The paper sensors 30 and 32 are composed of, for example, optical sensors and micro switches.

[0097] In the embodiment, the two paper sensors 30 and 32 constitute part of the image forming unit 16. That is, a portion of the power supplied to the image forming unit 16 is supplied to the two paper sensors 30 and 32. In the sleep state, when the power supply to the image forming unit 16 is stopped, the power supply to the two paper sensors 30 and 32 is also stopped, and they do not operate. When the image forming unit 16 is restored from the sleep state, power is resumed to the image forming unit 16. At this point, power is also resumed to the two paper sensors 30 and 32.

[0098] In the main body 11, a light emitter 34 is provided on the ceiling surface of the cavity 24. The light emitter 34 illuminates when, for example, paper is present on either of the two paper discharge trays 26 and 28, in other words, when the paper sensors 30 and 32 are activated and at least one detects a piece of paper. This causes a light beam 36 to be emitted from the light emitter 34 toward both paper discharge trays 26 and 28. For example, the light emitter 34 is comprised of an LED. The upper paper discharge tray 26 is made of a transparent member that transmits the light beam 36. Alternatively, the light beam 36 is formed so as to span both paper discharge trays 26 and 28.

[0099] When the light beam 36 is irradiated, the interior of the cavity 24 becomes brighter, thereby improving the visual recognition of the paper. In addition, by generating the light beam 36, the presence of paper in the cavity 24 can be confirmed. For example, the light emitter 34 starts flashing when paper discharge begins, and becomes lit after a certain period of time after paper discharge is completed. Of course, this operating state is just an example. In addition, multiple light emitters can be set inside or around the cavity 24. It is also possible to set a light emitter for each paper discharge tray, and each paper discharge tray can be notified or illuminated separately.

[0100] The main body 11 has a column portion 38 serving as a wall adjacent to the cavity 24. Two paper ejection slits are formed vertically on the side of the column portion 38 facing the cavity 24. In the illustrated configuration, the column portion 38 incorporates a first human presence sensor 40 and a second human presence sensor 42. In practice, a sensor substrate equipped with the first human presence sensor 40 and the second human presence sensor 42 is disposed within the column portion 38, and two light-transmitting openings are formed on the front surface of the column portion 38.

[0101] The first human detection sensor 40 is composed of, for example, a pyroelectric sensor as an object sensor. It is a passive sensor that detects moving objects. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the detection range 44 of the first human detection sensor 40 largely extends toward the front side of the main body 11 .

[0102] The second human detection sensor 42 is composed of a reflection type sensor as an object sensor, for example. It includes a light emitter and a light receiver and is an active sensor. Figure 1 In the illustrated example, the detection range 46 of the second human detection sensor is limited to a local range on the front side of the main body 11 .

[0103] As will be explained later, in the first embodiment, the main sensor for human detection switches between when there is no paper passing and when there is paper passing. When there is no paper passing, the second human detection sensor 42 becomes the main sensor. In this case, the first human detection sensor 40 becomes a sub-sensor that assists in activating the second human detection sensor 42. From this perspective, the first human detection sensor 40 is a primary human detection sensor, and the second human detection sensor 42 is a secondary human detection sensor. When there is paper passing, the first human detection sensor 40 becomes the main sensor. In this case, the second human detection sensor 42 does not play a role in recovery.

[0104] If we consider it from another angle, in the first embodiment, when there is no paper transfer, the detection range 46, which is a limited detection range, becomes the main detection range, and the person entering the range becomes the detection target. In this case, the detection range 44 becomes a sub-detection range that plays an auxiliary function. When there is paper transfer, the detection range 44, which is an expanded detection range, becomes the main detection range. In this case, the detection range 46 does not play a role in recovery. The operation of the first human sensing sensor 40 and the second human sensing sensor 42 involved in the first embodiment will be discussed later. Figure 3 and Figure 4 Describe in detail.

[0105] In addition, the side tray 39 is a paper discharge tray provided outside the main body 11. Other paper discharge trays may also be provided. A trimmer or the like may also be provided at a position adjacent to the main body 11.

[0106] Figure 2 yes Figure 1 1 shows a block diagram of an image forming apparatus. Processor 52 processes information and serves as a control unit, constituting a key component of the control unit. The control unit also includes a storage unit 58. A portion of storage unit 58 functions as register 60, described later. Storage unit 58 can store programs executed by processor 52.

[0107] In detail, the processor 52 has multiple functions. Figure 2 In the example, the main functions are represented by multiple boxes. Specifically, Figure 2 2 shows a monitoring control unit 62, a state control unit 66, and a light emission control unit 68. The light emission control unit 68 functions as a notification control unit.

[0108] The processor 52 controls the operation of the image reading unit 12, the UI unit 14, the image forming unit 16, etc. The processor 52 controls the power supply to the multiple units by controlling the power supply terminal selection unit (not shown). In fact, the control of the power supply is performed by the state control unit 66. In the normal operating state, power is supplied to the image reading unit 12, the UI unit 14, the image forming unit 16, etc. However, in order to save power, the power supply to some units that are not used or predetermined not to be used is sometimes stopped. In the sleep state, the power supply to the multiple units connected to the processor 52 is stopped. In the sleep state, in the processor 52, power is continuously supplied to the parts required for recovery control. In addition, in the sleep state, the parts related to the detection of people in the image forming device also operate.

[0109] The UI unit 14 includes a touch panel 20 and a light emitter 34. In the sleep mode, no power is supplied to the UI unit 14. That is, the light emitter 34 does not operate. The image forming unit 16 includes two paper sensors 30 and 32. In the sleep mode, no power is supplied to the image forming unit 16, specifically, to the two paper sensors 30 and 32.

[0110] The output signals of the first human-sensing sensor 40 and the second human-sensing sensor 42 are input to the processor 52. The first human-sensing sensor 40 and the second human-sensing sensor 42 are mounted on a sensor substrate 53. A circuit for processing each output signal is mounted on the sensor substrate 53. The monitoring control unit 62 in the processor 52 monitors the detection of a person in a sleep state, and generates a recovery trigger when a person is detected. In other words, a recovery command is issued to the state control unit 66. More specifically, the monitoring control unit 62 includes a determination unit 64. In the first embodiment, the determination unit 64 determines that a passing person and an approaching person are detected based on the output signal of the first human-sensing sensor 40, and determines that an approaching person is detected based on the output signal of the second human-sensing sensor 42.

[0111] The detection of a person may also be determined in a signal processing circuit provided on the sensor substrate 53. For example, the signal processing circuit may determine that an approaching person or a passing person has been detected by comparing the output signal of the first human detection sensor 40 with a first threshold value, or may determine that an approaching person has been detected by comparing the output signal of the second human detection sensor 42 with a second threshold value.

[0112] In the first embodiment, the first human detection sensor 40, the second human detection sensor 42, the signal processing circuit, and the determination unit 64 correspond to the person detection unit. This also applies to the second through fifth embodiments described below. However, if the signal processing circuit is configured to determine the presence of a specific person, the first human detection sensor 40, the second human detection sensor 42, and the signal processing circuit correspond to the person detection unit. If the human detection sensor itself can determine the presence of a specific person, the human detection sensor corresponds to the person detection unit.

[0113] The button group 22 is connected to the processor 52. The button group 22 includes a power button 54 and a power-saving button 56. In the normal operating state, pressing the power-saving button 56 activates a control for transitioning to the sleep state. Furthermore, in the sleep state, pressing the power-saving button activates a control for resuming the operating state. However, in the embodiment, as described in detail below, in the sleep state, when a certain person is detected, the control for resuming the operating state is automatically executed.

[0114] As described above, a portion of the storage unit 58 functions as the register 60. When transitioning to the sleep state, if neither of the paper sensors 30 and 32 detects paper, a flag indicating no paper is set to 0 in the register 60. On the other hand, when transitioning to the sleep state, if either of the paper sensors 30 and 32 detects paper, a flag indicating the presence of paper is set to 1 in the register 60. Furthermore, even in the sleep state, the data stored in the storage unit 58 (including the aforementioned flags) is retained.

[0115] In a normal operation state, when either of the paper sensors 30 and 32 detects paper, the light control unit 68 performs control to light up the light emitter 34 (see FIG. Figure 2 (see dotted arrow lines in the figure). This causes a light beam to be directed toward the two paper discharge trays within the cavity. At the recovery time, when at least one of the paper sensors 30 and 32 detects paper, the light emitter is illuminated by the light control unit 68. This notifies the user of any remaining paper.

[0116] exist Figure 3 4 shows a detection range 44 of the first human detection sensor and a detection range 46 of the second human detection sensor in the first embodiment. Figure 3 This figure shows the main body 11 viewed from above. In the example shown, the detection range 44 has a fan-shaped shape that expands horizontally. Specifically, the detection range 44 covers the front side (positive side in the x-direction) of the main body 11 widely and far, and extends to both sides in the y-direction.

[0117] Detection range 46 extends locally and limitedly in front of the center of main body 11, in other words, near the operation panel. It also has a roughly fan-shaped shape, but its angle of extension is smaller, and its central axis is tilted with respect to the x- and y-directions. Detection range 46 is included in detection range 44, but is merely an example.

[0118] Detection range 44 is larger than detection range 46. Specifically, the angle and radius of extension of detection range 44 are much larger than those of detection range 46. In the first embodiment, detection range 44 can be understood as an expanded detection range for detecting both approaching and passing persons, while detection range 46 can be understood as a limited detection range for detecting only approaching persons. When no paper is passing, detection ranges 44 and 46 function in stages. When paper is passing, only detection range 44 functions.

[0119] exist Figure 3 In the figure, reference numeral 48 represents the movement path of an approaching person. Multiple ellipses 48A are drawn on movement path 48, representing the direction and movement speed of the approaching person. Reference numeral 50 represents the movement path of a passing person. Multiple ellipses 50A are drawn on movement path 50, representing the direction and movement speed of the passing person.

[0120] During normal operation, power is supplied to both the first and second human presence sensors. In practice, the system constantly references the output signal from the second human presence sensor and uses this output signal to determine whether a user is present near the front of the main unit 11. If a user is present near the front of the main unit 11, the system automatically switches to the sleep mode.

[0121] In the first embodiment, the operations of the first and second human sensors in the sleep state differ depending on whether there is or is no paper passing. Although detailed below, when there is no paper passing, in the sleep state, the first human sensor is first activated, while the second human sensor is deactivated. In these situations, if a person enters the detection range 44 of the first human sensor, i.e., the output signal of the first human sensor determines that a person has been detected, this triggers the activation of the second human sensor. Then, if a person enters the detection range 46 of the second human sensor, i.e., the output signal of the second sensor determines that a person has been detected, then control is resumed.

[0122] On the other hand, when a sheet of paper is passing, the first human detection sensor is activated and the second human detection sensor is deactivated in the sleep state. In this situation, if a person enters the detection range 44 of the first human detection sensor, i.e., if a person is detected based on the output signal of the first human detection sensor, control is restored based solely on this fact. When a sheet of paper is passing, the second human detection sensor does not function in the sleep state.

[0123] Figure 4 This is a timing chart showing the operation sequence in Example 1. It shows the control contents of the monitoring control unit, state control unit, light emission control unit, etc. The horizontal axis is the time axis.

[0124] In operating state 70, if a transition event occurs at time T0, the system transitions to sleep state 74 through transition process 72. Examples of transition events include pressing the power save button and the passage of a specified time after the last job is executed. During transition process 72, at time T2, the two paper trays within the cavity are checked for the presence of paper. This is done by referring to the output signals of two paper sensors located on the two paper trays. If no paper is present on either tray, a flag is set to 0 at time T2. If paper is present on either tray, a flag is set to 1 at time T2.

[0125] As indicated by symbol 80, when flag 0 is set, limited monitoring is performed. Specifically, the second human sensor is first deactivated, resulting in a state where only the first human sensor is operating. At time T3, if the first human sensor detects a person (specifically, if it determines that either a passerby or an approaching person has been detected), the second human sensor is reactivated at time T4. Then, at time T5, if the second human sensor detects a person (specifically, if it determines that an approaching person has been detected), the system resumes to operating state 78 via recovery process 76. The detection of a person that triggers recovery can be considered a recovery event. Furthermore, if a person is detected by the first human sensor but no further person detection is performed by the second human sensor within a specified time period (specifically, if a passerby is detected but no approaching person is detected), the system returns to monitoring using only the first human sensor.

[0126] On the other hand, as shown by symbol 82, when flag 1 is set, expanded monitoring is performed. Specifically, the action of the second human sensing sensor stops, and the state becomes that only the first human sensing sensor is in action. At timing T6, when a person is detected by the first human sensing sensor (specifically, when it is determined that any one of a passer-by and an approacher is detected), it is restored to the operating state 78 through the recovery process 76. Similar to the above, the detection of the person causing the recovery can be understood as a recovery event. At timing T7, which is equivalent to the recovery, the action of the two paper sensors of the two paper discharge trays provided in the cavity portion is restored. At this time, when paper is detected by any of the paper sensors, the light emitter lights up, that is, notifies that paper is remaining.

[0127] As described above, when there is no paper transfer, recovery is performed only when a person approaching is detected. At the time of this recovery, usually, there is no paper on the two paper discharge trays, so the light emitter does not light up. After recovery, when paper is discharged to any of the paper trays, the light emitter lights up. On the other hand, when there is paper transfer, recovery is performed not only when a person approaching appears, but also when a person passing by appears. At the time of recovery, usually, paper residue still appears as usual, so this situation is notified by the light of the light emitter. Not only the person approaching is notified of the paper residue, but also the person passing by is notified of the paper residue. Thus, the transaction processing of the paper is urged. In addition, when there is paper transfer, when there is no paper residue when recovery is performed, that is, when no recovery occurs in the sleep state, and the residual paper is removed, no notification is performed.

[0128] Alternatively, a sound may be output from the speaker instead of or in addition to the light emission. Notification may also be performed by displaying a message on the display. When notification is performed based on a light emitter, flashing may be used instead of continuous lighting. In addition, in the sleep state, when there is no paper transition, as with the case of paper transition, it may also be considered to allow only the first human sensor to function, and to immediately perform recovery at the time when a person is detected by the first human sensor. However, in this case, the image forming device may be restored unnecessarily due to the mere presence of a person passing through, which may lead to a situation that is contrary to power saving. In the embodiment, recovery is performed only when recovery is necessary. This is to give consideration to both notification of residual paper and power saving.

[0129] In the above embodiment, paper residue is managed on the two paper discharge trays in the cavity portion, but paper residue may be managed on other placement surfaces such as other paper discharge trays or a document tray (including a platen).

[0130] exist Figure 5 The flow chart shows the action during the transition. The content shows the control content of the above-mentioned processor. This is for the following description. Figure 6 、 Figure 7 、 Figure 11 、 Figure 14 In addition, the operation during transition is common to all embodiments.

[0131] In S10, the presence of paper is determined by referring to the output signals of the two paper sensors in the cavity. If there is no paper, i.e., no paper is in transit, a flag is set to 0 in S12. If there is paper, i.e., paper is in transit, a flag is set to 1 in S14.

[0132] exist Figure 6 The actions involved in the first embodiment are shown in a flowchart. In S20, when the judgment flag is 0, limited monitoring is started in S22. That is, only the approaching person becomes the detection object for recovery. In S24, it is determined whether a person (specifically, any one of the approaching person and the passing person) is detected based on the output signal of the first human sensing sensor. For the sake of convenience, the initial detection of the person is referred to as a primary detection. When the primary detection is determined, the action of the second human sensing sensor is started again in S26, and in S28, it is determined whether a person (specifically, the approaching person) is detected based on the detection signal of the second human sensing sensor. For the sake of convenience, the second detection is referred to as a secondary detection. When the secondary detection is determined, control for recovery to the operating state is executed in S34. After the primary detection, if the secondary detection is not determined within the specified time, as shown in S36, the process returns to the stage of determining whether there is a primary detection.

[0133] On the other hand, if the determination flag is 1 in S20, S30 determines whether a person (specifically, either an approaching person or a passing person) has been detected based on the output signal of the first human detection sensor. Detection of a person at this stage corresponds to the primary detection described above. However, if the flag is 1, no secondary detection is determined. If the determination result in S32 is "yes," S34 is executed.

[0134] As described above, in the first embodiment, the detection target is switched by switching the main sensor for human detection, in other words, by switching the main detection range for human detection. From this perspective, the first human detection sensor is an expanded human detection sensor, and the second human detection sensor is a limited human detection sensor.

[0135] In the second through fifth embodiments described below, similar to the first embodiment, when there is no paper passing, i.e., when the flag is 0, limited monitoring is performed in the sleep state, with only approaching persons as detection targets. When there is paper passing, i.e., when the flag is 1, expanded monitoring is performed in the sleep state, with approaching persons and passing persons as detection targets. However, the methods for changing the detection targets differ between the first through fifth embodiments.

[0136] exist Figure 7The flow chart shows the actions involved in the second embodiment. Figure 1 and Figure 2 The configuration shown is based on the assumption that even in the sleep state, two-stage detection is performed when the flag is 1. As described above, the detection target is changed by switching the size of the main detection range.

[0137] Specifically, in S40, when the determination flag is 0, in S42, the normal detection range is set as the detection range of the first sensor, and the normal detection range is set as the detection range of the second sensor. Figure 1 The two detection ranges 44 and 46 are shown. When two normal detection ranges are set, the process of S42 is skipped. Then, in S44, it is determined whether there is a primary detection, in S46 the second human detection sensor is activated, and in S48 it is determined whether there is a secondary detection. In S62, recovery control is executed. S42 to S48 are the same as Figure 6 The same is true for S22 to S28 shown above. In addition, after one detection, when a predetermined time has passed, the process shifts to S44 as shown in S50.

[0138] On the other hand, Figure 7 In S40, if the determination flag is 1, a detection range larger than the normal detection range is set for the first human detection sensor in S52, and a detection range larger than the normal detection range is set for the second human detection sensor in S54. A determination is made as to whether a primary detection has occurred in S58. Subsequently, the second human detection sensor is activated, and a determination is made as to whether a secondary detection has occurred in S60. If a secondary detection has occurred, recovery control is executed in S62. Furthermore, if a predetermined time has elapsed after the primary detection, processing transfers to S54, as indicated in S61.

[0139] As described above, the second embodiment changes the detection target by maintaining two-stage detection and changing the size of the two detection ranges. From this perspective, the first human detection sensor is a primary human detection sensor, and the second human detection sensor is a secondary human detection sensor.

[0140] exist Figure 8 Detailed description of another configuration example of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 8 1 is a diagram showing the third embodiment. Figure 1 The difference between the structures shown in FIG. 1 and FIG. 2 is the structure of the human detection unit. Figure 8 In, with Figure 1 The same elements as those shown are denoted by the same reference numerals, and their description is omitted.

[0141] exist Figure 8In the image processing device 10A shown in the figure, a human sensor 84 is provided on the column portion 38. The human sensor 84 corresponds to Figure 1 The second human detection sensor shown in FIG. However, its detection range varies depending on the object being detected. Specifically, during limited monitoring performed when the flag is 0, a relatively small limited detection range 86 is set, and approaching persons are detected within this limited detection range 86. During expanded monitoring performed when the flag is 1, a relatively large expanded detection range 88 is set, and approaching persons and passing persons are detected within this expanded detection range 88.

[0142] When a sheet of paper is passed through, the system resumes operation if a person passing through is detected. At this point in time, paper is present on at least one of the paper discharge trays 26 and 28. Therefore, if at least one of the paper sensors 30 and 32 detects paper, the light emitter 34 lights up, notifying the person passing by that paper is remaining.

[0143] exist Figure 9 and Figure 10 A fourth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 9 shows a limited monitoring, Figure 10 Shows expanded monitoring. Figure 9 and Figure 10 In the embodiment, a detection range 90 of the human sensor is set in front of the main body 11. In the example shown, the detection range 90 has a fan-shaped shape extending forward from the center position in the y direction of the main body 11. The same detection range 90 is set in both limited monitoring and expanded monitoring.

[0144] Symbol 92 indicates the moving path of the approaching person, and symbol 94 indicates the moving path of the passing person. Figure 9 The limit monitoring case shown is Δt1, at Figure 10 In the case of expanded monitoring shown, it is Δt2. Detection values sampled at each sampling cycle can be obtained. On the time axis, a detection value sequence including multiple detection values is formed.

[0145] In the fourth embodiment, a person is detected when i detection values exceeding a predetermined threshold are obtained continuously over time. This determination condition is considered the first determination condition when the sampling period Δt1 is used as the premise, and the second determination condition when the sampling period Δt2 is used as the premise. In the illustrated example, i is 2.

[0146] exist Figure 9In the limited monitoring shown, two detection values 96a and 96b exceeding a predetermined threshold are continuously acquired within detection range 90 by sampling an approaching person. At the time of acquisition of the latter detection value 96b, a person (specifically, an approaching person) is determined to have been detected. The detection value exceeding the predetermined threshold is the person detection value. Regarding a passing person, in the illustrated example, the only detection value exceeding the predetermined threshold is detection value 96c. In other words, a passing person is excluded from detection. Incidentally, reference numeral 96d represents a hypothetical detection value exceeding the predetermined threshold that can be obtained by sufficiently expanding detection range 90.

[0147] On the other hand, Figure 10 In the expanded monitoring shown, for an approaching person, two detection values 96e and 96f exceeding a predetermined threshold are obtained shortly after entering detection range 90. At the time detection value 96f is obtained, a person (specifically, an approaching person) is determined to have been detected. For a passing person, two detection values 96g and 96h exceeding a predetermined threshold are obtained within detection range 90. At the time the latter detection value 96h is detected, a person (specifically, a passing person) is determined to have been detected.

[0148] As described above, if the form and size of the detection range are appropriately set based on the normal movement path of an approaching person or a passing person, and the sampling period is changed based on this, the detection target can be changed.

[0149] exist Figure 11 The operation of the fourth embodiment is shown in a flowchart. If the flag is determined to be 0 in S70, a normal period is set as the sampling period (in other words, the detection period) in S72. In S74, within the set sampling period, multiple detection values arranged on the time axis are referenced. If two detection values exceeding a predetermined threshold are obtained consecutively, a person (specifically, an approaching person) is determined to have been detected. Recovery control is executed in S80.

[0150] On the other hand, if the flag is determined to be 1 in S70, a short sampling period is set in S76. This makes it easier to detect people compared to a normal sampling period. In other words, the determination conditions are relaxed. In S78, within the set sampling period, multiple detection values arranged on the time axis are referenced. When two detection values exceeding the specified threshold are obtained consecutively, it is determined that a person (specifically, either an approaching person or a passing person) has been detected. The presence or absence of a person is thus determined.

[0151] exist Figure 12 and Figure 13 The fifth embodiment is shown in FIG. Figure 12 shows a limited monitoring, Figure 13 Shows expanded monitoring. Figure 12 and Figure 13In FIG. 1 , a detection range 90 of the same human sensor is set on the front side of the main body 11. The movement path of the approaching person is indicated by 92, and the movement path of the passing person is indicated by 94.

[0152] In the fifth embodiment, the number n of consecutive detection values exceeding a predetermined threshold is counted. When the number of consecutive detection values reaches a predetermined number (j for limited monitoring, k for expanded monitoring), a person is detected. In the example shown, j is 5 and k is 3. Furthermore, j>k.

[0153] exist Figure 12 In the limited monitoring shown, when the number n of consecutive detection values exceeding a predetermined threshold reaches a predetermined number j, a person (specifically, an approaching person) is determined to be detected (reference numerals 98a and 98b). Regarding a passing person, although multiple detection values are obtained within the detection range 90 (reference numerals 98c and 98d), the number n of consecutive detection values does not reach the predetermined number j, and the passing person is not detected.

[0154] exist Figure 13 In the expanded monitoring shown, for an approaching person, if the consecutive number n of detection values exceeding the predetermined threshold reaches a predetermined number k, a person (i.e., an approaching person) is determined to have been detected at the time of reaching that number. For a passing person, if the consecutive number n of detection values exceeding the predetermined threshold reaches a predetermined number k within the detection range 90, a person (i.e., either an approaching person or a passing person) is determined to have been detected at the time of reaching that number.

[0155] exist Figure 14 The operation of the fifth embodiment is shown in a flowchart. If the flag is determined to be 0 in S90, limited monitoring is performed, and a predetermined number j is set in S92. In S94, it is determined whether the consecutive number n of detection values exceeding the predetermined threshold has reached the predetermined number j. If the consecutive number n has reached the predetermined number j, it is determined that a person (specifically, an approaching person) has been detected. Recovery control is performed in S100.

[0156] On the other hand, when the flag is determined to be 1 in S90, expanded monitoring is performed, and a specified number k is set in S96. As described above, k<j. That is, in expanded monitoring, a determination condition that is easier to satisfy is set compared to limited monitoring. In other words, a loose determination condition is set. In S98, it is determined whether the consecutive number n of detection values exceeding the specified threshold value has reached the specified number k. When the consecutive number n reaches the specified number k, it is determined that a person (specifically, either an approaching person or a passing person) has been detected. Then, S100 is executed. In addition, in counting the consecutive number n, when the detection value is less than the specified threshold value, the consecutive number n is reset.

[0157] Furthermore, a combination of the above-described embodiments may be employed. For example, the sampling period may be changed and the predetermined number to be compared with the continuous number may be changed simultaneously.

[0158] exist Figure 15 , illustrates a screen 100 displayed when selecting an action mode. The illustrated screen 100 includes a window for selecting the target for notification of residual paper during recovery. This window includes a button 102, which is operated when selecting limited notification mode, which limits notification targets to only those approaching, and a button 104, which is operated when selecting expanded notification mode, which expands notification targets to only those passing through. In limited notification mode, in the sleep state, only those approaching become detection targets, while those passing through are excluded. In expanded notification mode, both those approaching and those passing through become detection targets in the sleep state.

[0159] exist Figure 16 The figure shows multiple lighting states (i.e., multiple lighting patterns) based on the premise that two paper discharge trays are provided within the cavity formed in the main body. Two paper sensors (specifically, an upper paper sensor and a lower paper sensor) are provided for the two paper discharge trays. Each paper sensor detects the presence or absence of paper, resulting in four possible combinations of detection methods using the two paper sensors. Three of these combinations correspond to the three residual modes.

[0160] In lighting mode A, the light emitter illuminates when any of the paper sensors detects paper. In lighting mode B, the light emitter illuminates or flashes depending on the number of sensors detecting paper. When only one paper sensor detects paper, the flashing cycle indicates which sensor is responsible for detection. In lighting mode C, the light combination is expressed by changing the color of the light. Lighting mode D is selected when notifying only the lower paper output tray of paper. Lighting mode E is selected when notifying only the upper paper output tray of paper. Either lighting mode is selected by the user. Alternatively, it is automatically selected depending on the situation.

[0161] The processor described in this application specification is a processor in a broad sense, and its concept includes general-purpose processors (such as CPU (Central Processing Unit: Central Processing Unit)) and special-purpose processors (such as GPU (Graphics Processing Unit: Graphics Processing Unit), ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit: Application Specific Integrated Circuit), FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array: Field Programmable Gate Array) and programmable logic devices, etc.). In addition, the processor described in this application specification can be composed of one physical processor or multiple physical processors. Part or all of the processing involved in the above embodiment can also be performed by a processor on the network. The multiple processes that constitute the processing or action are not limited to the processes described above, and can also be performed in a different order from them. Some or all of the processes can also be executed in parallel.

[0162] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are provided for the purpose of illustration and explanation. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention do not fully and exhaustively include the present invention, and do not limit the present invention to the disclosed embodiments. Obviously, various modifications and variations are self-evident to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. The present embodiment is selected and described in order to most easily explain the principles of the present invention and its application. Thus, other skilled persons in the art will be able to understand the present invention by determining the various modifications optimized for the assumed various embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the following claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that: Include: A plurality of placement surfaces are provided on the main body and are used to place paper sheets discharged after image formation is completed; a person detection unit, provided on the main body; a plurality of paper sensors provided on the plurality of placement surfaces, wherein when the main body is in a sleep state, power supply to the plurality of paper sensors is stopped; a processor configured to: controlling the transition of the subject to the dormant state according to the occurrence of a transition event; controlling the main body to resume from the sleep state based on detection of a person by the person detection unit; During the transition process after the occurrence of the transition event and before entering the dormant state, determining, based on output signals of the plurality of paper sensors, whether the transition is a paper-free transition in which no paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces or a paper-present transition in which paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces; When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the detection targets of the person detection unit include a person approaching the subject but do not include a person passing near the subject; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the detection targets are set to include the approaching person and the passing person; and The notification unit notifies that paper remains when paper exists on the plurality of placement surfaces after the restoration.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the detection range of the person detection unit is set to a limited detection range so that the detection target includes the approaching person but does not include the passing person. When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the detection range of the person detection unit is set to an expanded detection range for including the approaching person and the passing person in the detection targets. The expanded detection range is larger than the limited detection range.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The person detection unit includes: A limited human sensing sensor having the limited detection range; and Expanding the human sensing sensor, having the expanded detection range, When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the person is detected based on the output of the limited human detection sensor, When the transition is the paper-present transition, the person is detected based on the output of the enlarged human detection sensor in the sleep state.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The person detection unit includes: Primary occupancy sensor; and The secondary human sensing sensor is activated according to the output of the primary human sensing sensor. When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the detection range of the secondary human sensor is set to the limited detection range. When the transition is the paper-present transition, in the sleep state, the detection range of the secondary human-sensing sensor is set to the expanded detection range.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein: When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the detection range of the primary human sensor is set to the first primary detection range. When the transition is the paper-present transition, in the sleep state, the detection range of the primary human detection sensor is set to a second primary detection range that is larger than the first primary detection range.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The human detection unit includes a human sensor. When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, when the output signal of the human detection sensor satisfies a first determination condition for including the approaching person but not the passing person in the detection target, the recovery is executed; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, when the output signal of the human sensor satisfies the second determination condition for including the approaching person and the passing person in the detection target, the recovery is executed; The second determination condition is a condition that is less stringent than the first determination condition.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein: The first judgment condition and the second judgment condition are both conditions for obtaining a condition for continuously outputting a predetermined number of i person detection values as the output signal of the human detection sensor. By applying the first determination condition, the sampling period of the output signal is set to the first period. By applying the second determination condition, the sampling period of the output signal is set to a second period that is shorter than the first period.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein The first judgment condition is to obtain a condition for continuously outputting j person detection values as the output signal of the human detection sensor. The second determination condition is a condition for continuously outputting k person detection values smaller than the j number as the output signal of the human detection sensor.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The plurality of loading surfaces are a plurality of paper discharge trays provided in the cavity portion of the main body. The notification unit includes a light emitter that radiates light toward the plurality of paper discharge trays.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein The notification portion switches a light emitting state according to a remaining state of paper in the plurality of paper discharge trays.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein The notification unit includes at least one of a light emitter, a display, and a speaker for notifying that the paper remains.

12. An image forming apparatus, characterized in that: Include, A plurality of placement surfaces are provided on the main body and are used to place paper sheets discharged after image formation is completed; Person detection unit; a plurality of paper sensors provided on the plurality of placement surfaces, wherein when the main body is in a sleep state, power supply to the plurality of paper sensors is stopped; a unit for controlling the transition of the main body to the dormant state according to the occurrence of a transition event; a unit for determining, during the transition process after the occurrence of the transition event and before entering the dormant state, based on output signals of the plurality of paper sensors, whether the transition is a paperless transition in which no paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces or a paper present transition in which paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces; When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, the person detection unit is configured to include a person approaching the subject but not a person passing near the subject in the detection targets; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the unit is configured to include the approaching person and the passing person in the detection targets; a unit for controlling recovery from the sleep state when a person is detected in the sleep state; and When paper is present on the plurality of placement surfaces after the restoration, a unit is notified of the remaining paper.

13. A storage medium storing a program executed in an image forming apparatus, characterized in that: Include: a function of controlling a transition of a main body of the image forming apparatus to a sleep state according to occurrence of a transition event, wherein the main body is provided with a plurality of placement surfaces for placing sheets of paper discharged after image formation has been completed; During the transition after the occurrence of the transition event and before entering the sleep state, a function is provided for determining, based on output signals of a plurality of paper sensors provided on the plurality of loading surfaces, whether the transition is a paper-free transition in which no paper is present on the plurality of loading surfaces or a paper-present transition in which paper is present on the plurality of loading surfaces, wherein the main body stops supplying power to the plurality of paper sensors in the sleep state; When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, a function is provided to include a person approaching the image forming apparatus body in the detection targets of the person detection unit but not a person passing near the image forming apparatus body; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the function is set to include the approaching person and the passing person in the detection targets; In the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, a function of controlling recovery from the sleep state; and A function of notifying that paper remains when paper exists on the plurality of placement surfaces after the restoration.

14. An image forming method, characterized in that: include: a step of controlling a main body of the image forming apparatus to transition to a sleep state according to occurrence of a transition event, wherein the main body is provided with a plurality of placement surfaces for placing sheets of paper discharged after image formation has been completed; During the transition after the occurrence of the transition event and before entering the sleep state, a step of determining whether the transition is a paper-free transition in which no paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces or a paper-present transition in which paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces based on output signals of a plurality of paper sensors provided on the plurality of loading surfaces, wherein the main body stops supplying power to the plurality of paper sensors in the sleep state; When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, a step is performed in which the detection targets of the human detection unit include a person approaching the image forming apparatus body but exclude a person passing near the image forming apparatus body; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the detection targets include the approaching person and the passing person; In the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, controlling recovery from the sleep state; and A step of notifying that paper remains when paper exists on the plurality of placement surfaces after the restoration.

15. A computer program product comprising a program for causing a computer to perform the following steps: a step of controlling a main body of the image forming apparatus to transition to a sleep state according to occurrence of a transition event, wherein the main body is provided with a plurality of placement surfaces for placing sheets of paper discharged after image formation has been completed; During the transition after the occurrence of the transition event and before entering the sleep state, a step of determining whether the transition is a paper-free transition in which no paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces or a paper-present transition in which paper exists on the plurality of loading surfaces based on output signals of a plurality of paper sensors provided on the plurality of loading surfaces, wherein the main body stops supplying power to the plurality of paper sensors in the sleep state; When the transition is the paperless transition, in the sleep state, a step is performed in which the detection targets of the human detection unit include a person approaching the image forming apparatus body but exclude a person passing near the image forming apparatus body; When the transition is the transition with paper, in the sleep state, the detection targets include the approaching person and the passing person; In the sleep state, when a person is detected by the person detection unit, controlling recovery from the sleep state; and A step of notifying that paper remains when paper exists on the plurality of placement surfaces after the restoration.

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