Image forming apparatus

Abstract

An image forming apparatus includes an interface and a control circuit. The interface connects a non-contact card reader. The control circuit acquires identification information read from an information recording medium by the non-contact card reader, and reduces a radio wave intensity level of the non-contact card reader based on authentication success of the identification information.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The implementation relates to an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] An image forming apparatus is provided, equipped with a human body sensing sensor, used to detect whether a user is present near the image forming apparatus.

[0003] An image forming apparatus exists that authenticates identification information read from an identity authentication card via a contactless card reader. Authentication is a technology used to restrict the settings of the image forming apparatus for each user and to access electronic files stored in the image forming apparatus.

[0004] In line with the trend of reducing power consumption in electronic devices, it is also required that at least one of the following, namely human body sensors and contactless card readers, also reduce power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0005] According to one embodiment, the image forming apparatus includes an interface and a control circuit. The interface is connected to a contactless card reader. The control circuit acquires identification information read from the information recording medium by the contactless card reader, and reduces the radio wave intensity level of the contactless card reader based on successful authentication of the identification information. Attached Figure Description

[0006] Figure 1 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating a system including the image forming apparatus according to the embodiments.

[0007] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0008] Figure 3 This is a schematic external view showing an example of the configuration of the human body sensing sensor and the contactless card reader of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0009] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of control actions for the radio wave intensity level and the sensing level in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0010] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure for acquiring a set time in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment. Detailed Implementation

[0011] The embodiments will now be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0012] [System Composition]

[0013] Figure 1This is a schematic block diagram showing a system S including the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0014] System S includes an image forming apparatus 1, a contactless card reader 2, and a user terminal 3. The image forming apparatus 1 and the contactless card reader 2 are freely connected to each other via a wired cable. The image forming apparatus 1 and the user terminal 3 are freely connected to each other via a network, either wired or wirelessly. For example, the network is a LAN (Local Area Network). System S sometimes also refers to a system having two of the following devices: image forming apparatus 1, contactless card reader 2, and user terminal 3.

[0015] Image forming apparatus 1 is a device with electrophotographic printing function. Image forming apparatus 1 will be described as a digital multifunction printer (MFP) with functions such as copying, printing, faxing, and scanning. An example of the configuration of image forming apparatus 1 will be described later.

[0016] The contactless card reader 2 is an electronic device that reads identification information from an information recording medium. The information recording medium is the medium that stores identification information. For example, the information recording medium is an IC (Integrated Circuit) card. The information recording medium includes a chip and an antenna. The chip controls the information recording medium. The chip includes an information storage area. The storage area stores the identification information. The antenna is used to communicate wirelessly with external devices. The antenna is used to receive power from external devices. The information recording medium is activated by receiving radio waves from external devices via the antenna. The information recording medium communicates with external devices through activation. The identification information is information that can identify each user. The identification information is information used for user authentication based on the image forming apparatus 1.

[0017] The contactless card reader 2 can adjust the intensity level of the radio waves emitted by the reader 2 to two or more levels to adjust the responsiveness of the information recording medium. The radio wave intensity level is a grade of radio wave strength. As the intensity level increases, the radio wave strength increases. As the intensity level increases, the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2 increases. Increasing the intensity level includes increasing the radio wave strength. Decreasing the intensity level includes decreasing the radio wave strength. The contactless card reader 2 includes a control circuit, an antenna, and a demodulation circuit. The control circuit is a circuit capable of adjusting the intensity level of the radio waves. The antenna emits radio waves at the intensity level adjusted by the control circuit. The antenna receives the response wave relative to the emitted radio waves. The demodulation circuit demodulates the response wave. The demodulation circuit obtains identification information by demodulating the response wave.

[0018] Here, an example illustrating that the contactless card reader 2 can adjust the radio wave intensity level in three levels is provided. The contactless card reader 2 emits radio waves at any one of the following intensity levels: a first intensity level, a second intensity level, and a third intensity level. The first intensity level is the highest among the first, second, and third intensity levels. The second intensity level is lower than the first intensity level. The third intensity level is lower than the second intensity level. The contactless card reader 2 is not limited to adjusting the radio wave intensity level in three levels. The contactless card reader 2 can adjust the radio wave intensity level in two levels, or in four or more levels.

[0019] User terminal 3 is an electronic device capable of information processing. For example, user terminal 3 is a PC (Personal Computer), tablet terminal, or smartphone, but is not limited to these. User terminal 3 sends printing data to image forming apparatus 1. Printing data is data related to the printing work requested by user terminal 3 from image forming apparatus 1. Printing data includes printing settings input by the user on user terminal 3. Printing settings include various printing-related settings such as color mode, paper type, printing mode, number of copies, and paper size. Paper is an example of a medium. Printing data includes image data of the printing object specified by the user on user terminal 3. Printing data includes user identification information.

[0020] [Device Composition]

[0021] Figure 2 This is a schematic block diagram illustrating an example configuration of the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment.

[0022] The image forming apparatus 1 includes a control unit 10, a control panel 20, a scanner unit 30, a communication circuit 40, an input / output interface 50, a human body sensor 60, a sensor control circuit 70, a power supply circuit 80, and a printer unit 90.

[0023] The control unit 10 controls the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 10 includes a control circuit 11, a main memory 12, and a storage device 13.

[0024] The control circuit 11 is equivalent to the central part of the image forming apparatus 1. The control circuit 11 includes a processor such as a CPU (Central Processing Unit). In addition to or instead of a CPU, the control circuit 11 may also include an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit), a FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), or a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit). The control circuit 11 expands the program pre-stored in the main memory 12 or the storage device 13 in the main memory 12. The control circuit 11 performs various actions by executing the program expanded in the main memory 12.

[0025] Main memory 12 corresponds to the main storage portion of image forming apparatus 1. Main memory 12 includes a non-volatile memory region and a volatile memory region. Main memory 12 stores the operating system or programs in the non-volatile memory region. Main memory 12 uses the volatile memory region as a working area for data appropriately rewritten by control circuitry 11. For example, main memory 12 includes ROM (Read-Only Memory) as a non-volatile memory region. For example, main memory 12 includes RAM (Random Access Memory) as a volatile memory region.

[0026] Storage device 13 is equivalent to an auxiliary storage section of image forming apparatus 1. For example, storage device 13 includes HDD (Hard Disk Drive). In addition to or instead of HDD, storage device 13 may also include semiconductor storage media such as SSD (Solid State Drive). Storage device 13 stores the data used by the above-described program and control circuit 11 during various processes, as well as the data generated by the processing of control circuit 11. Storage device 13 can store printing data.

[0027] The control panel 20 includes a display element 21, a touch panel 22, and input buttons 23.

[0028] Display element 21 is a display element that displays images. Display element 21 may be a liquid crystal display (LCD) or an organic EL (electroluminescence) display, but is not limited to these. Touch panel 22 is a device that forms a touchscreen together with display element 21 by stacking it on top of display element 21. Touch panel 22 senses user contact with display element 21. Touch panel 22 is an example of an input interface for inputting user instructions. Input button 23 is a pressable button such as a print start button. Input button 23 is an example of an input interface for inputting user instructions.

[0029] The scanner unit 30 is a device that reads images such as text, graphics, and photographs drawn on paper placed in a designated position. The scanner unit 30 includes a line sensor. The line sensor can be a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor). The scanner unit 30 generates image data based on the images read using the line sensor. The scanner unit 30 sends the generated image data to the control unit 10. The control unit 10 saves the received image data in the storage device 13 or sends it to the printer unit 90.

[0030] The communication circuit 40 is an interface for communicating with external devices of the image forming apparatus 1. The communication circuit 40 connects the image forming apparatus 1 and the user terminal 3 freely to each other via a network.

[0031] The input / output interface 50 is an interface for connecting the contactless card reader 2. The input / output interface 50 includes a connector for connecting the image forming apparatus 1 and the contactless card reader 2 via a wired cable.

[0032] The human body sensor 60 is a sensor that senses the proximity of a user to the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the human body sensor 60 can be a passive sensor such as a pyroelectric infrared sensor, but is not limited to this. The human body sensor 60 can also be an active sensor such as an ultrasonic sensor or a laser-emitting infrared sensor. The human body sensor 60 can adjust the sensing level to two or more levels. The sensing level is a level related to sensing. The sensing level includes at least one of a sensing distance level, a sensing sensitivity level, and a sensing frequency level. The sensing distance is the distance from the human body sensor 60 to which it can sense the user. The sensing sensitivity is the accuracy with which the human body sensor 60 senses the user within the sensing distance. The sensing frequency is the frequency at which the human body sensor 60 senses the user. When the human body sensor 60 is an active sensor, the sensing frequency can be changed. As the sensing level increases, at least one of the sensing distance level, sensing sensitivity level, and sensing frequency level also increases. As the sensing distance level increases, the sensing distance becomes longer. As the sensing sensitivity level increases, the sensing sensitivity increases. As the sensing frequency level increases, the sensing frequency increases. As the sensing level increases, the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2 increases. Reducing the perception level includes reducing the perception distance level. Reducing the perception distance level includes shortening the perception distance. Reducing the perception level includes reducing the perception sensitivity level. Reducing the perception sensitivity level includes reducing the perception sensitivity. Reducing the perception level includes reducing the perception frequency level. Reducing the perception frequency level includes reducing the perception frequency.

[0033] The human body sensor 60 may include multiple sensors with different sensing levels. In this example, the human body sensor 60 may adjust the sensing level by switching between multiple sensors. The human body sensor 60 may also include a single sensor. In this example, the human body sensor 60 may adjust the sensing level by mechanically or electrically adjusting a single sensor.

[0034] Here, an example illustrating that the human body sensor 60 can change its sensing level in three levels is provided. The human body sensor 60 senses the user at any one of a first sensing level, a second sensing level, and a third sensing level. The first sensing level includes at least one of a first sensing distance level, a first sensing sensitivity level, and a first sensing frequency level. The second sensing level includes at least one of a second sensing distance level, a second sensing sensitivity level, and a second sensing frequency level. The third sensing level includes at least one of a third sensing distance level, a third sensing sensitivity level, and a third sensing frequency level.

[0035] The first perception level is the highest among the first, second, and third perception levels. The second perception level is lower than the first perception level. The third perception level is lower than the second perception level. The human body sensor 60 is not limited to adjusting the perception level at three levels. The human body sensor 60 can adjust the perception level at two levels, or at more than four levels.

[0036] The sensor control circuit 70 is a circuit that controls the human body sensing sensor 60. The sensor control circuit 70 can adjust the sensing level.

[0037] The power supply circuit 80 converts the alternating current supplied by commercial power supply into direct current, supplying power to various parts of the image forming apparatus 1. The power supply circuit 80 can be controlled by the control circuit 11.

[0038] The printer unit 90 is a unit that forms an image on paper. For example, the printer unit 90 forms an image on paper based on image data sent by the user terminal 3 via a network. Here, an example of a printer unit 90 using a toner image transfer unit in a series configuration will be described. The printer unit 90 includes a storage section 91, a transport section 92, an image forming section 93, and a fuser 94.

[0039] The storage section 91 stores paper. The storage section 91 includes a paper feed cassette and a pickup roller. The paper feed cassette stores paper. The pickup roller picks up one sheet of paper from the paper feed cassette at a time. The pickup roller provides the picked-up paper to the transport section 92.

[0040] The transport unit 92 transports paper within the printer unit 90. The transport unit 92 includes multiple rollers and a registration roller. The multiple rollers include rollers that transport paper supplied by the pickup roller to the registration roller. The multiple rollers also include rollers disposed downstream of the fuser 94 (described later) that discharge paper to the paper output section. The registration roller transports paper to the transfer section according to the timing when the toner image is transferred onto the paper by the transfer section of the image forming unit 93 (described later).

[0041] The image forming unit 93 forms a toner image on paper. The image forming unit 93 includes an intermediate transfer belt, multiple developing units, an exposure unit, and a transfer unit, etc.

[0042] The intermediate transfer belt is a ring-shaped belt.

[0043] Multiple developing sections correspond to the number of toner types. These developing sections include a black developing section, a cyan developing section, a magenta developing section, and a yellow developing section. Each developing section includes a photosensitive drum. Around the photosensitive drum, each developing section includes a belt charger, a developing unit, a primary transfer roller, a cleaning unit, and an electrostatic eliminator. The photosensitive drum is a drum with a photosensitive layer on its surface. The belt charger uniformly charges the photosensitive layer on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The developing unit develops the electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum using toner. The developing unit forms a toner image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The primary transfer roller is positioned opposite the photosensitive drum, sandwiching an intermediate transfer belt. The primary transfer roller transfers the toner image from the surface of the photosensitive drum onto the intermediate transfer belt. The cleaning unit removes untransferred toner from the surface of the photosensitive drum. The electrostatic eliminator irradiates the surface of the photosensitive drum with light. The electrostatic eliminator eliminates static electricity from the photosensitive layer of the photosensitive drum through light irradiation.

[0044] The exposure unit illuminates the surface of the photosensitive drum in each developing section with a laser beam through an optical system such as a polygon mirror. The exposure unit forms an electrostatic pattern on the surface of the photosensitive drum as an electrostatic latent image.

[0045] The transfer section transfers the charged toner image from the surface of the intermediate transfer belt onto the paper. The transfer section includes a support roller and a secondary transfer roller configured to clamp the intermediate transfer belt and the paper from both sides in the thickness direction.

[0046] The fuser 94 applies heat and pressure to the paper on which the toner image supplied by the image forming unit 93 has been formed. The fuser 94 fixes the toner image formed on the paper by heat and pressure.

[0047] Figure 3 This is a schematic external view showing an example of the configuration of the human body sensing sensor 60 and the contactless card reader 2 of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0048] A human body sensor 60 is disposed on the control panel 20 of the image forming apparatus 1. A contactless card reader 2 is disposed near the control panel 20 of the image forming apparatus 1. The positions of the human body sensor 60 and the contactless card reader 2 in the image forming apparatus 1 are not limited to these.

[0049] [Control Actions]

[0050] Figure 4 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing of control actions for the radio wave intensity level and the perception level in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0051] The processing described below is only an example, and each process can be modified as much as possible. The processing can be omitted or replaced according to the implementation method, or new processes can be added. The control circuit 11 starts the control operation of the radio wave intensity level and the sensing level based on the power supply to the image forming apparatus 1. The control circuit 11 ends the control operation of the radio wave intensity level and the sensing level based on the power supply to the image forming apparatus 1 being turned off.

[0052] Control circuit 11 sets the radio wave intensity level to a first radio wave intensity level (ACT1). In ACT1, for example, control circuit 11 controls contactless card reader 2 via input / output interface 50 to cause contactless card reader 2 to emit radio waves at the first radio wave intensity level. Contactless card reader 2 adjusts the radio wave intensity level to the first radio wave intensity level. Contactless card reader 2 emits radio waves at the first radio wave intensity level. By setting the radio wave intensity level to the first radio wave intensity level by control circuit 11, identification information can be easily obtained from the recording medium in the non-authentication state.

[0053] Control circuit 11 sets the sensing level to a first sensing level (ACT2). In ACT2, for example, control circuit 11 controls sensor control circuit 70 to cause human body sensor 60 to operate at the first sensing level. Sensor control circuit 70 adjusts the sensing level of human body sensor 60 to the first sensing level. Human body sensor 60 operates at the first sensing level. By setting the sensing level to the first sensing level, control circuit 11 can improve the accuracy of user sensing even when the user is not near image forming apparatus 1.

[0054] Control circuit 11 determines whether the human body sensor 60 has transitioned from a non-perceived state to a perceived state (ACT3). A non-perceived state is when the human body sensor 60 does not perceive the user. A perceived state is when the human body sensor 60 perceives the user. When control circuit 11 determines that the transition from the non-perceived state to the perceived state (ACT3, No), the process moves from ACT3 to ACT1. When control circuit 11 determines that the transition from the non-perceived state to the perceived state (ACT3, Yes), the process moves from ACT3 to ACT4.

[0055] The control circuit 11 sets the electromagnetic wave intensity level to a second electromagnetic wave intensity level (ACT4) based on the transition from a non-perceived state to a perceived state by the human body sensing sensor 60. In ACT4, for example, the control circuit 11 controls the contactless card reader 2 via the input / output interface 50 to cause the contactless card reader 2 to emit electromagnetic waves at the second electromagnetic wave intensity level. The contactless card reader 2 adjusts the electromagnetic wave intensity level to the second electromagnetic wave intensity level. The contactless card reader 2 emits electromagnetic waves at the second electromagnetic wave intensity level. Setting the electromagnetic wave intensity level to the second electromagnetic wave intensity level includes changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from a first electromagnetic wave intensity level to a second electromagnetic wave intensity level. Changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from the first electromagnetic wave intensity level to the second electromagnetic wave intensity level is an example of reducing the electromagnetic wave intensity level. As described above, the control circuit 11 can reduce the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the transition from a non-perceived state to a perceived state. Since the user is near the image forming apparatus 1, there is a high probability that the recording medium will be obstructed near the contactless card reader 2. The contactless card reader 2 only needs to emit radio waves at an intensity sufficient to read identification information from a recording medium that is partially obscured by proximity. The control circuit 11 reduces the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2 by lowering the radio wave intensity level. Since the contactless card reader 2 can read identification information from a recording medium that is partially obscured by proximity, user convenience is not compromised.

[0056] Control circuit 11 sets the perception level to a second perception level (ACT5) based on the transition from a non-perceiving state to a perceiving state of the human body sensor 60. In ACT5, for example, control circuit 11 controls sensor control circuit 70 to cause human body sensor 60 to operate at the second perception level. Sensor control circuit 70 adjusts the perception level of human body sensor 60 to the second perception level. Human body sensor 60 operates at the second perception level. Setting the perception level to the second perception level includes changing the perception level from the first perception level to the second perception level. Changing the perception level from the first perception level to the second perception level is an example of reducing the perception level. As described above, control circuit 11 can reduce the perception level based on the transition from a non-perceiving state to a perceiving state. Since the user is near image forming apparatus 1, the necessity for human body sensor 60 to continuously perceive the user is low. By reducing the perception level, control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of human body sensor 60. Since human body sensor 60 has already perceived the user, the user's convenience is not compromised.

[0057] Control circuit 11 acquires identification information read from the information recording medium via contactless card reader 2 (ACT6). In ACT6, for example, control circuit 11 acquires the identification information read from the information recording medium via input / output interface 50 from contactless card reader 2. When control circuit 11 does not acquire identification information (ACT6, No), processing transitions from ACT6 to ACT3. When control circuit 11 acquires identification information (ACT6, Yes), processing transitions from ACT6 to ACT7.

[0058] Control circuit 11 determines whether the authentication of the identification information is successful (ACT7). In ACT7, for example, control circuit 11 compares the identification information obtained from contactless card reader 2 with the identification information of multiple users authorized to use image forming apparatus 1. Storage device 13 can store the identification information of multiple users authorized to use image forming apparatus 1. Control circuit 11 determines the authentication of the identification information as successful if the identification information is included in the identification information of multiple users stored in storage device 13. Control circuit 11 determines the authentication of the identification information as failed if the identification information is not included in the identification information of multiple users stored in storage device 13. When control circuit 11 determines the authentication of the identification information as failed (ACT7, No), the process moves from ACT7 to ACT3. When control circuit 11 determines the authentication of the identification information as successful (ACT7, Yes), the process moves from ACT7 to ACT8.

[0059] Based on successful authentication of the identification information, control circuit 11 sets the electromagnetic wave intensity level of contactless card reader 2 to a third electromagnetic wave intensity level (ACT8). In ACT8, for example, control circuit 11 controls contactless card reader 2 via input / output interface 50 to cause contactless card reader 2 to emit electromagnetic waves at the third electromagnetic wave intensity level. Contactless card reader 2 adjusts the electromagnetic wave intensity level to the third electromagnetic wave intensity level. Contactless card reader 2 emits electromagnetic waves at the third electromagnetic wave intensity level. Setting the electromagnetic wave intensity level to the third electromagnetic wave intensity level includes changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from the second electromagnetic wave intensity level to the third electromagnetic wave intensity level. Changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from the second electromagnetic wave intensity level to the third electromagnetic wave intensity level is an example of reducing the electromagnetic wave intensity level. As described above, control circuit 11 can reduce the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on successful authentication of the identification information. Because the authentication of the identification information is successful, the likelihood of the user again obscuring the recording medium at contactless card reader 2 is low. Even if the user blocks the recording medium at the contactless card reader 2, the blocking occurs when the recording medium is brought close to the contactless card reader 2. The contactless card reader 2 only needs to emit radio waves at an intensity sufficient to read the identification information from the blocked recording medium. The control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2 by lowering the radio wave intensity level. Since the contactless card reader 2 can read the identification information from the blocked recording medium, user convenience is not compromised.

[0060] Based on successful authentication using the identification information, control circuit 11 sets the perception level to the third perception level (ACT9). In ACT9, for example, control circuit 11 controls sensor control circuit 70 to cause human body sensor 60 to operate at the third perception level. Sensor control circuit 70 adjusts the perception level of human body sensor 60 to the third perception level. Human body sensor 60 operates at the third perception level. Setting the perception level to the third perception level includes changing the perception level from the second perception level to the third perception level. Changing the perception level from the second perception level to the third perception level is an example of lowering the perception level. As described above, control circuit 11 can lower the perception level based on successful authentication using the identification information. Since the user is near image forming apparatus 1, the necessity for human body sensor 60 to continuously perceive the user is low. The likelihood of other users approaching image forming apparatus 1 is also low. By lowering the perception level, control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of human body sensor 60. Since the necessity for human body sensor 60 to perceive the user or other users is low, user convenience is not compromised.

[0061] Control circuit 11 determines whether condition (ACT10) is met. The condition is used to increase at least one of the radio wave intensity level and the sensing level. The condition will be described later. If control circuit 11 determines that the condition is not met (ACT10, No), the process of ACT10 is repeated. If control circuit 11 determines that the condition is met (ACT10, Yes), the process transitions from ACT10 to ACT1.

[0062] The conditions include at least one of the first condition, the second condition, and the third condition, but may also include other conditions.

[0063] The first condition refers to whether the human body sensor 60 transitions from a state of sensing the user to a state of non-sensing. Meeting the first condition means that the human body sensor 60 transitions from a state of sensing the user to a state of non-sensing.

[0064] The second condition refers to whether the user has entered a deauthentication status via touch panel 22 or input button 23. The authentication status is the state in which authentication continues after successful authentication based on control circuit 11. The authentication status is the state in which a successfully authenticated user is permitted to use image forming apparatus 1. Deauthentication includes the ability to authenticate other users based on control circuit 11. Satisfying the second condition means that the user enters a deauthentication status.

[0065] The third condition refers to whether a set time has elapsed. The set time is a time period set starting from any point after successful authentication by the control circuit 11. The set time corresponds to the operation time of the task-based printer unit 90. The set time varies depending on the operation time of the task-based printer unit. An example of obtaining the set time based on the control circuit 11 will be described later. Meeting the third condition means that the set time has elapsed.

[0066] The processing of ACT1 and ACT2 under the first condition is explained.

[0067] In ACT1, the control circuit 11 sets the electromagnetic wave intensity level of the contactless card reader 2 to a first electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of a first condition. Setting the electromagnetic wave intensity level to the first electromagnetic wave intensity level includes changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from a third electromagnetic wave intensity level to the first electromagnetic wave intensity level. Changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level from a third electromagnetic wave intensity level to the first electromagnetic wave intensity level is an example of increasing the electromagnetic wave intensity level. Thus, after the control circuit 11 lowers the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on successful authentication, it raises the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of the first condition. Since the user is not near the image forming apparatus 1, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By increasing the electromagnetic wave intensity level, the control circuit 11 can easily obtain identification information from other users' recording media in the unauthenticated state. By changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level without compromising user convenience, the control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2.

[0068] In ACT2, control circuit 11 sets the perception level to a first perception level based on the fulfillment of a first condition. Setting the perception level to the first perception level includes changing the perception level from a third perception level to the first perception level. Changing the perception level from a third perception level to the first perception level is an example of increasing the perception level. Thus, after lowering the perception level based on successful authentication, control circuit 11 increases the perception level based on the fulfillment of the first condition. Since the user is not near the image forming apparatus 1, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By increasing the perception level, control circuit 11 can improve the accuracy of sensing other users. By changing the perception level within a range that does not impair the user's convenience, control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the human body sensing sensor 60.

[0069] The processing of ACT1 and ACT2 under the second condition is explained.

[0070] In ACT1, the control circuit 11 sets the electromagnetic wave intensity level of the contactless card reader 2 to a first electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of the second condition. Thus, after lowering the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on successful authentication, the control circuit 11 raises the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of the second condition. Since there is a high probability that the user will de-authenticate and leave the image forming apparatus 1, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By raising the electromagnetic wave intensity level, the control circuit 11 can easily obtain identification information from other users' recording media in the unauthenticated state. By changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level without compromising user convenience, the control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2.

[0071] In ACT2, the control circuit 11 sets the perception level to the first perception level based on the satisfaction of the second condition. Thus, after lowering the perception level based on successful authentication, the control circuit 11 raises the perception level based on the satisfaction of the second condition. Since the probability of a user leaving the image forming apparatus 1 after deauthenticating is high, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By raising the perception level, the control circuit 11 can improve the accuracy of detecting other users. By changing the perception level without compromising user convenience, the control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the human body sensing sensor 60.

[0072] The handling of ACT1 and ACT2 under the third condition is explained.

[0073] In ACT1, the control circuit 11 sets the electromagnetic wave intensity level of the contactless card reader 2 to the first electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of the third condition. Thus, after lowering the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on successful authentication, the control circuit 11 raises the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the satisfaction of the third condition. Since there is a high probability that a user will leave the image forming apparatus 1 after completing task-based processing, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By raising the electromagnetic wave intensity level, the control circuit 11 can easily obtain identification information from other users' recording media in the unauthenticated state. By changing the electromagnetic wave intensity level without compromising user convenience, the control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2.

[0074] In ACT2, control circuit 11 sets the perception level to the first perception level based on the satisfaction of the third condition. Thus, after lowering the perception level based on successful authentication, control circuit 11 raises the perception level based on the satisfaction of the third condition. Since there is a high probability that a user will leave the image forming apparatus 1 after completing task-based processing, there is a possibility that other users may approach the image forming apparatus 1. By raising the perception level, control circuit 11 can improve the accuracy of detecting other users. By changing the perception level without compromising user convenience, control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the human body sensing sensor 60.

[0075] It should be noted that although examples of control circuit 11 changing both the radio wave intensity level and the sensing level have been described, it is not limited to this. Control circuit 11 may also not change the radio wave intensity level. In this example, control circuit 11 omits the processing of ACT4 and ACT8. Control circuit 11 may also not change the sensing level. In this example, control circuit 11 omits the processing of ACT5 and ACT9.

[0076] It should be noted that the third radio wave intensity level can also be a level where the radio wave intensity is set to 0. In this example, the contactless card reader 2 does not emit radio waves at the third radio wave intensity level. The third sensing level can also be a level where the sensing distance, sensing sensitivity, and sensing frequency are all set to 0. A sensing frequency of 0 means that the human body sensor 60 never senses the user. In this example, at the third sensing level, the human body sensor 60 does not sense the user regardless of the user's position relative to the human body sensor 60.

[0077] Figure 5 This is a flowchart illustrating the processing procedure for acquiring a set time in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the embodiment.

[0078] The process described below is only an example, and each process can be modified as much as possible. The process can be omitted or replaced according to the implementation method, or new processes can be added.

[0079] In the authenticated state, the control circuit 11 acquires a task (ACT11) via input from the user through the touch panel 22 or input button 23. In ACT11, for example, the control circuit 11 acquires a task selected by the user as the object to be executed. Although an example of a printing-related task based on printing data sent from the user terminal 3 to the image forming apparatus 1 has been described, the task is not limited to this. The task can be related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 1. The task can also be related to copying.

[0080] Control circuit 11 calculates the operation time (ACT12) of the task-based printer unit 90. In ACT12, for example, control circuit 11 calculates the operation time based on printing settings included in printing data related to the task to be performed by the user. The operation time can vary depending on the number of copies printed. The calculation of the operation time of the printer unit 90 based on printing settings can also be implemented using known techniques.

[0081] The control circuit 11 obtains the set time (ACT13) based on the action time. The set time can be the same length as the action time or a longer time. The control circuit 11 can set the start time of the set time based on the start time of the task processing of the printer unit 90.

[0082] As described above, the control circuit 11 can acquire a set time that varies depending on the operation time of the printer unit based on the input task. The control circuit 11 can adjust the timing of increasing the electromagnetic wave intensity level or sensing level to be close to the moment when the user is most likely to leave the image forming apparatus 1. The control circuit 11 can reduce the power consumption of the contactless card reader 2 or the human body sensor 60 without compromising user convenience.

[0083] Modifications to the above embodiments will be described.

[0084] The perception level can also include a perception time level. Perception time is the set time during which the human body sensor 60 is effective in perceiving the user. Perception is effective during the set time period and ineffective after the set time. When the human body sensor 60 is a passive sensor, the perception time can be changed. As the perception time level increases, the perception time becomes longer. Lowering the perception level includes lowering the perception time level. Lowering the perception time level includes shortening the perception time. The first perception level includes the first perception time level. The second perception level includes the second perception time level. The third perception level includes the third perception time level. When the perception time level is the highest level, such as the first perception time level, the human body sensor 60 can always be effective in perceiving the user. When the perception time level is the lowest level, such as the third perception time level, the perception time can be 0. A perception time of 0 means that the human body sensor 60 is always ineffective in perceiving the user. Although the human body sensor 60 is powered regardless of whether it is a perception time or not, the utilization rate of the processor included in the control circuit 11 can decrease as the perception time decreases.

[0085] While the above embodiments have been described using an image forming apparatus as an example, they are not limited thereto. These embodiments can be applied to devices equipped with human body sensors and capable of connecting to contactless card readers. They can also be applied to POS (Point of Sales) devices.

[0086] While several embodiments have been described, these embodiments are merely illustrative and not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These embodiments can be implemented in various other ways, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included within the scope and spirit of the invention, and likewise within the scope of the invention as described in the claims and its equivalents.

[0087] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0088] 1: Image forming apparatus; 2: Contactless card reader; 3: User terminal; 10: Control unit; 11: Control circuit; 12: Main memory; 13: Storage device; 20: Control panel; 21: Display element; 22: Touch panel; 23: Input button; 30: Scanner unit; 40: Communication circuit; 50: Input / output interface; 60: Human body sensor; 70: Sensor control circuit; 80: Power supply circuit; 90: Printer unit; 91: Storage unit; 92: Transport unit; 93: Image forming unit; 94: Fixer; S: System.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus comprising: Interface for connecting to a contactless card reader; The control circuit acquires the identification information read from the information recording medium by the contactless card reader, and reduces the radio wave intensity level of the contactless card reader based on successful authentication using the identification information; and Human body sensing sensor The control circuit reduces the electromagnetic wave intensity level based on the transition from a non-perceived state to a perceived state of the user by the human body sensing sensor.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, After reducing the radio wave intensity level based on the successful authentication, the control circuit increases the radio wave intensity level based on the transition from the perceived state of the user by the human body sensor to the non-perceived state.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, After reducing the radio wave intensity level based on the successful authentication, the control circuit increases the radio wave intensity level based on the input of the deauthentication state.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, After reducing the radio wave intensity level based on the successful authentication, the control circuit increases the radio wave intensity level based on the elapsed time.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein, The image forming apparatus also includes a printer unit. The set time varies depending on the action time of the printer unit based on the task.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein, Based on the successful authentication, the control circuit reduces the sensing level of the human body sensor.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, After lowering the perception level based on successful authentication, the control circuit raises the perception level based on the transition of the human body sensor from the user's perception state to a non-perception state.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, After lowering the perception level based on successful authentication, the control circuit raises the perception level based on the input of deauthentication.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein, After the control circuit lowers the perception level based on the successful authentication, it raises the perception level after a set time has elapsed.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein, The image forming apparatus also includes a printer unit. The set time varies depending on the action time of the printer unit based on the task.

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