Information processing system, information processing method, image forming system, and computer readable medium

Abstract

The invention discloses an information processing system, an information processing method, an image forming system, and a computer readable medium, the information processing system includes an optical sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object in a detection range divided into a plurality of areas for each divided area, and a processor. The processor sets, for each of a plurality of regions in the detection range, a region in which an expected value derived on the basis of the number of times the information processing device is used within a predetermined time after the object is detected in each region is smaller than a predetermined threshold value as a first region, and sets, as a second region, a region in which an expected value derived on the basis of the number of times the information processing device is used within a predetermined time after the object is detected in each region. When an object enters the first area, the information processing apparatus is not transitioned from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state in which the power consumption amount is greater than that of the first power consumption state.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method, an image forming system and a computer readable medium. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent No. 6478469 describes an image forming apparatus that switches the conditions for returning from sleep depending on whether a sensor disposed diagonally upward on the image forming apparatus has detected a temperature higher than a predetermined temperature.

[0003] Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2015-154377 describes an image processing device that switches its power state to a normal power state when a human sensor disposed on the image processing device with its detection surface facing diagonally upward detects a human hand above an operating unit.

[0004] Japanese Patent No. 6415632 describes an image processing device that switches its power state to a normal power state when a human sensor disposed on the image processing device with its detection surface facing diagonally upward detects a human hand above an operation unit. Summary of the invention

[0005] Devices that use human sensors to detect people within the detection range and transition from power saving mode to activation mode are now in practical use.

[0006] However, when objects within the detection range are uniformly detected and the device is transitioned from a power saving state to a startup state, people or obstacles passing near the device may also be identified as users, and the device may be transitioned from a power saving state to a startup state, so that the power consumption of the device may sometimes increase.

[0007] The object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system, an information processing method, an image forming system and a computer-readable medium, which can reduce the power consumption of the device compared to the situation where objects within the detection range are uniformly detected and the device is transitioned from a power saving state to a startup state.

[0008] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing system comprising: a light sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a detection range divided into a plurality of areas according to each of the divided areas; and a processor, wherein, for each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, the processor sets, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times an information processing device is used within a prescribed time after the object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value, and when the information processing device is in a first power consumption state, when an object enters the first area, the information processing device is not transitioned from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state.

[0009] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the first aspect, when an object enters a second area in the detection range that is different from the first area, the processor causes the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0010] According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the first or second aspect, the processor derives an expected value as a case of using the information processing device for each of the multiple areas when an object is detected within a detection range closer to the information processing device than each area within a specified time after the object is detected in each area.

[0011] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the first or second aspect, the processor derives an expected value as a situation of using the information processing device for each of the multiple areas when an operation is accepted in the operating unit within a specified time after an object is detected in each area.

[0012] According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on any one of the first to fourth aspects, the processor sets each of the plurality of areas as the first area when an object is continuously detected in each area for more than a specified time.

[0013] According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system according to any one of the first to fifth aspects, the processor stops detection by the optical sensor with respect to the first area.

[0014] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on any one of the first to fifth aspects, the processor does not cause the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state for the first area even when an object is detected by the optical sensor.

[0015] According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming system comprising: an optical sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and within a second detection range closer to an image forming device than the first detection range; and a processor, wherein, for each of the plurality of regions in the first detection range, the processor sets, as a first region, a region in which an expected value derived based on the number of times an information processing device is used within a prescribed time after the object is detected in each region and which is smaller than a predetermined threshold value, and when the image forming device is in a first power consumption state, when an object enters the first region, the image forming device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state in which power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state, and when the object enters a second region in the first detection range that is different from the first region, the image forming device is caused to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state, and when the image forming device is in the second power consumption state, when an object enters the second detection range, the image forming device is caused to transition from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state in which power consumption is greater than the second power consumption state.

[0016] According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable medium storing a program causing a computer to execute processing, wherein the processing comprises: a step of detecting the presence of an object within a detection range divided into a plurality of areas according to each divided area; a step of setting, for each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times an information processing device is used within a prescribed time after the object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold as a first area; and a step of not causing the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state when an object enters the first area when the information processing device is in a first power consumption state.

[0017] According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable medium storing a program causing a computer to execute processing, wherein the processing comprises: a step of detecting the presence of an object in a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and in a second detection range closer to an image forming device than the first detection range; a step of setting, for each of the plurality of regions in the first detection range, a region in which an expected value derived based on the number of times an information processing device is used within a prescribed time after the object is detected in each region as a first region and having an expected value less than a predetermined threshold value; a step of not causing the image forming device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a power consumption amount greater than the first power consumption state when the object enters the first region when the image forming device is in a first power consumption state; a step of causing the image forming device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when the object enters a second region different from the first region in the first detection range; and a step of causing the image forming device to transition from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state having a power consumption amount greater than the second power consumption state when the object enters the second detection range when the image forming device is in the second power consumption state.

[0018] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing method, comprising: a step of detecting the presence of an object within a detection range divided into a plurality of areas according to each divided area; a step of setting, for each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times an information processing device is used within a prescribed time after the object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold as a first area; and a step of not causing the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state in which the power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state when an object enters the first area when the information processing device is in a first power consumption state.

[0019] (Effect)

[0020] According to the first and eleventh aspects, the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced compared to the case where the information processing device is uniformly detected for objects within the detection range and the information processing device is transitioned from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0021] According to the second aspect, compared with a case where the information processing device is uniformly detected for an object within the detection range and the information processing device is transitioned from the power saving state to the activation state, the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced.

[0022] According to the third aspect, for each of the plurality of areas, the usage rate of the information processing device can be calculated based on whether an object is detected within a detection range close to the information processing device within a predetermined time after the object is detected.

[0023] According to the fourth aspect, for each of the plurality of areas, the usage rate of the information processing device can be calculated based on whether or not an operation is performed by the user within a predetermined time after the object is detected.

[0024] According to the fifth aspect, even if an object enters an area where the information processing device is not expected to be used, the information processing device can be prevented from transitioning from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0025] According to the sixth aspect, compared with the case where the first area is detected by the optical sensor, the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced.

[0026] According to the seventh aspect, the detection operation of the optical sensor is not changed, and when the object enters the first area, the information processing device can be prevented from transitioning from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0027] According to the eighth aspect, compared with a case where an object within the detection range is uniformly detected and the image forming apparatus is shifted from the power saving state to the activation state, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

[0028] According to the ninth aspect, compared with a case where the information processing device is uniformly detected for an object within the detection range and the information processing device is transitioned from the power saving state to the activation state, the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced.

[0029] According to the tenth aspect, compared with a case where the image forming apparatus is uniformly detected to transition from the power saving state to the activation state, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 This is an external view for explaining a schematic structure of an image forming apparatus according to a first embodiment;

[0031] Figure 2 is a front view showing a schematic structure of the optical sensor;

[0032] Figure 3 This is a schematic diagram of the structure of a VCSEL array;

[0033] Figure 4 is the optical path diagram in the XZ plane of the light emitted from the VCSEL array;

[0034] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the hardware structure of an image forming apparatus;

[0035] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of an image forming apparatus;

[0036] Figure 7 is a diagram for explaining the detection range of the optical sensor of the above embodiment;

[0037] Figure 8 is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing when controlling the power consumption state in the image forming apparatus according to the above embodiment;

[0038] Fig. 9 is a diagram for explaining the setting state of the image forming apparatus of Embodiment 1;

[0039] Fig.10 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus of Example 1;

[0040] Fig.11 is a diagram for explaining the setting state of the image forming apparatus of Embodiment 2;

[0041] Fig.12 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus of Example 2;

[0042] Fig.13 is a diagram for explaining the setting state of the image forming apparatus of Embodiment 3;

[0043] Fig.14 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus of Example 3;

[0044] Fig.15 is a diagram for explaining a detection range of a light sensor in an image forming apparatus according to a second embodiment;

[0045] Fig.16 This is a flowchart for explaining the flow of processing when controlling the power consumption state in the image forming apparatus according to the above-described embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0046] [First embodiment]

[0047] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 This is an external view for explaining a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Figure 1 The X-axis, Y-axis, and Z-axis in 10 represent coordinate axes in the image forming apparatus 10. The X-axis direction is the horizontal direction, indicating the width direction of the apparatus, the Y-axis direction is the vertical direction, indicating the up-down direction of the apparatus, and the Z-axis direction is the horizontal direction, indicating the depth direction of the apparatus.

[0048] like Figure 1 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10 is a so-called multifunction peripheral having multiple functions such as printing, scanning, copying, and facsimile functions. The image forming apparatus 10 is an example of an information processing apparatus and an information processing system in the technology of the present invention.

[0049] The image forming apparatus 10 includes an optical sensor 18 for detecting a user who uses the apparatus. Since a user generally approaches the location where the image forming apparatus 10 is installed, the optical sensor 18 is set to detect such a user.

[0050] Figure 2 1 is a front view showing a schematic structure of the optical sensor 18. Figure 2 As shown, the optical sensor 18 includes a VCSEL array 40 having a plurality of light emitting regions B, an optical system 50 for deflecting light emitted from each of the plurality of light emitting regions B in different directions, and a light receiving unit 51 for detecting reflected light of the light emitted from the optical system.

[0051] Figure 3 4 is a schematic structural diagram of the VCSEL array 40. Figure 3 As shown, the VCSEL array 40 has a structure in which a plurality of vertical cavity surface emitting laser (VCSEL: Vertical Cavity Surface Emitting Laser) type light emitting elements 42 are arranged in a zigzag pattern in a partial region on a substrate 41 .

[0052] The VCSEL array 40 has a plurality of light emitting regions B arranged along the X-axis direction. The VCSEL array 40 has a plurality of light emitting elements 42 in one light emitting region B. The VCSEL array 40 controls the on or off of the light emitting element 42 for each light emitting region B. Figure 3 , as an example, a state in which seven light-emitting regions B are arranged along the X-axis direction is shown, and numbers 0 to 6 are assigned to each of the seven light-emitting regions B.

[0053] The optical system 50 is arranged in the light emission direction of the VCSEL array 40 and deflects light emitted from each of the plurality of light emitting regions B in different directions. The optical system 50 is arranged so that the optical axis of the optical system 50 is orthogonal to the center of the entire light emitting region of the VCSEL array 40.

[0054] The optical system 50 is composed of, for example, lenses. When the optical system 50 is composed of lenses, there is no particular limitation on the shape and number of the lenses, and any structure may be used as long as it can deflect the light emitted from each of the plurality of light-emitting regions B in different directions.

[0055] Figure 4 is a light path diagram in the XZ plane of light emitted from the VCSEL array 40. In addition, Figure 4 These are schematic diagrams for explaining the structure to facilitate understanding, and do not illustrate the actual shapes of the VCSEL array 40 and the optical system 50 .

[0056] like Figure 4 As shown, in this embodiment, the VCSEL array 40 has seven light emitting regions B arranged along the X-axis direction.

[0057] The optical system 50 deflects the light emitted from each of the light emitting areas B No. 0 to No. 6 in different directions. Here, the irradiation angle of the light of the optical sensor 18 is based on the angle formed by the emission directions of the two lights emitted from the outermost light emitting area B from the optical system 50. The irradiation angle of the light of the optical sensor 18 in this embodiment is 160° as an example.

[0058] The light receiving unit 51 includes a light receiving element such as a photodetector, etc. The number of light receiving elements is not limited to one, and a plurality of light receiving elements may be provided.

[0059] The optical sensor 18 is arranged in the image forming device 10 such that the X-axis direction is the horizontal direction of the image forming device 10 and the Y-axis direction is the vertical direction of the image forming device 10 .

[0060] The optical sensor 18 first emits light from one of the plurality of light emitting regions B arranged along the X-axis direction, and then detects reflected light of the light emitted from the light emitting region B in the light receiving unit 51 .

[0061] Next, the optical sensor 18 calculates the time difference between the timing of irradiating the light in the light emitting region B and the timing of detecting the reflected light in the light receiving section 51 , based on the signal detected in the light receiving section 51 .

[0062] Next, the optical sensor 18 calculates the distance from the optical sensor 18 to the object within the detection range corresponding to the luminous area B based on the calculated time difference. If no reflected light is detected within the detection range corresponding to the luminous area B, it is known that there is no object within the detection range.

[0063] After the optical sensor 18 completes the object detection process for one light emitting area B, it similarly performs the object detection process for the remaining light emitting areas B, and performs the detection process for the entire detection range. Thereafter, the optical sensor 18 repeatedly performs the detection process for the entire detection range.

[0064] As described above, the optical sensor 18 is a human sensing sensor that can correspond to the multiple light-emitting areas B of the VCSEL array 40, detect the existence of an object within the detection range divided into multiple areas for each divided area, and detect the distance between the detected object and the optical sensor 18.

[0065] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, by detecting a user using the apparatus using the optical sensor 18, the operating state of the apparatus is controlled such as returning the apparatus from the power saving state to the activation state (ie, the normal operating state).

[0066] Next, the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 5 2 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0067] like Figure 5 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 12, a storage device 13 such as a hard disk drive, a communication interface (abbreviated as IF) 14, a user interface (abbreviated as UI) device 15 including a touch panel and buttons, etc., a scanner 16, a print engine 17, and a light sensor 18. These components are connected to each other via a control bus 19.

[0068] CPU 11 is a processor that performs prescribed processing based on a control program stored in RAM 12 or storage device 13 and controls the actions of image forming device 10. In addition, in the present embodiment, CPU 11 is described as a device that reads out and executes a control program stored in RAM 12 or storage device 13, but is not limited to this. The control program can also be provided in the form of being recorded in a computer-readable recording medium. For example, the program can be provided in the form of being recorded in an optical disk such as a CD (Compact Disc)-ROM (Read Only Memory) and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc)-ROM, or in the form of being recorded in a semiconductor memory such as a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory and a memory card. In addition, the control program can also be obtained from an external device via a communication line connected to the communication IF 14.

[0069] The communication IF 14 transmits and receives data to and from external devices. The UI device 15 receives instructions from the user. The scanner 16 reads the original loaded in the image forming device 10 as image data. The printing engine 17 prints an image on a recording medium such as printing paper through processes such as charging, exposure, development, transfer, and fixing.

[0070] Next, the functional configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 6 : is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0071] like Figure 6 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10 of this embodiment includes a control unit 31 , a storage unit 32 , an operation input unit 33 , a display unit 34 , a data transceiver unit 35 , an authentication unit 36 ​​, an image reader 37 , an image output unit 38 , and a light sensor 18 .

[0072] The control unit 31 controls the overall operation of the image forming apparatus 10 , for example, based on an instruction input from a user, controls the image reading unit 37 to read a document image, controls the image output unit 38 to output print data, etc. The storage unit 32 stores data such as control programs.

[0073] The operation input unit 33 inputs information of various operations performed by the user. The display unit 34 is controlled by the control unit 31 and displays various information to the user. The data transceiver unit 35 transmits and receives data to and from an external device. The authentication unit 36 ​​performs authentication processing for a user who wishes to use the image forming apparatus 10.

[0074] The image reading section 37 reads a document image from a loaded document based on the control of the control section 31. The image output section 38 outputs an image on a recording medium such as printing paper based on the control of the control section 31.

[0075] Next, the control of the operating state in the image forming apparatus 10 is described. The control unit 31 can change the power consumption state of the image forming apparatus 10 by changing the power-on state of each of the control unit 31, the touch panel, the image reading unit 37, and the image output unit 38. The touch panel is a device that also serves as the operation input unit 33 and the display unit 34.

[0076] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 (see Figure 7 ) within the detection of an object, switching between a first power consumption state as a power saving state with minimal power consumption and a second power consumption state as a startup state with greater power consumption than the first power consumption state.

[0077] However, when objects within the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 are uniformly detected and the image forming device 10 is transitioned from the power saving state to the startup state, people or obstacles passing near the image forming device 10 are also judged as users and transitioned from the power saving state to the startup state, so that the power consumption of the image forming device 10 sometimes increases.

[0078] Therefore, the control unit 31 of this embodiment sets, for each of the multiple areas in the detection range R of the light sensor 18, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the image forming device 10 is used within a specified time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value as a first area, and when the image forming device 10 is in the first power consumption state, when an object enters the first area, the image forming device 10 is not transitioned from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0079] Furthermore, when the object enters a second area different from the first area in the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 , the control unit 31 causes the image forming apparatus 10 to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0080] Furthermore, “the object enters a certain area” means that the object first crosses the boundary of the detection range R from outside the detection range R to inside the detection range R and enters. That is, the case where the object moves to a different area within the detection range R is not included.

[0081] Here, detection of the measuring object by the optical sensor 18 included in the image forming apparatus 10 will be described in detail. Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 according to the present embodiment.

[0082] like Figure 7 As shown, the detection range R is a fan-shaped area with a radius D based on the optical sensor 18. The optical sensor 18 of this embodiment takes each divided area as an example, and detects the existence of an object within the detection range R which is divided into 7 areas A0 to A6 corresponding to the 7 light-emitting areas B of the VCSEL array 40.

[0083] The radius D of the detection range R may be appropriately set in consideration of the detection capability of the optical sensor 18 , the assumed moving speed of the object, and the time required for the image forming apparatus 10 to transition from the power saving state to the activation state, and is set to 1.75 m, for example.

[0084] The control unit 31 derives an expected value for each of the plurality of areas in the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 based on the number of times the image forming apparatus 10 is used within a predetermined time after an object is detected in each area, and sets an area where the derived expected value is smaller than a predetermined threshold as a first area.

[0085] Thus, a part of a plurality of regions (seven regions A0 to A6 in this embodiment) in the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 is set as the first region. The region set as the first region may be one or more.

[0086] Here, the “expected value” is a value obtained by comprehensively judging various information and quantifying the degree of possibility of using the image forming device 10 after the object enters each area. The larger the expected value, the higher the possibility of using the image forming device 10.

[0087] That is, the area where the image forming apparatus 10 is used after an unexpected object enters each area is set as the first area, and the image forming apparatus 10 is not shifted from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0088] For example, the expected value may include a usage rate indicating the ratio of the number of times the image forming device 10 is used within a predetermined time after detecting an object in each area relative to the total number of detections in each divided area. In this case, the higher the usage rate, the higher the expected value.

[0089] The control unit 31 may calculate the usage rate as the use of the image forming device 10 for each of the plurality of areas when an object is detected in a detection range closer to the image forming device 10 than each area within a predetermined time after the object is detected in each area.

[0090] Here, “the detection range closer to the image forming device 10 than each area” refers to an area within the detection range R of the image forming device 10 whose radius is shorter than the radius D of the detection range R. The radius shorter than the radius D of the detection range R is set to 0.6 m, for example.

[0091] In addition, the control unit 31 may calculate the usage rate of the image forming device 10 for each of the plurality of areas when an operation is received on the operation input unit 33 (specifically, UI device 15 such as a touch panel) within a specified time after an object is detected in each area.

[0092] In addition, regarding the setting of the first area, the control unit 31 may set each of the plurality of areas as the first area when an object is continuously detected in each area for a predetermined time or longer, based on the above-mentioned setting method.

[0093] In addition, regarding the setting of the first area, the control unit 31 may set the area designated by the user as the first area in addition to the above-mentioned setting method.

[0094] In the first area, the control unit 31 may stop detection by the optical sensor 18. In the first area, the control unit 31 may prevent the image forming apparatus 10 from transitioning from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state even when the optical sensor 18 detects an object.

[0095] Next, refer to Figure 8 The flowchart of FIG. 1 will describe the flow of processing when controlling the power consumption state in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment.

[0096] As an initial state, when there is no object within the detection range R of the optical sensor 18, or when the object exists in the first area even if there is an object within the detection range R of the optical sensor 18, the control unit 31 sets the power consumption state of the image forming device 10 to the first power consumption state with the minimum power consumption in step S11.

[0097] Next, in step S12 , the control unit 31 determines whether or not entry of an object into the detection range R of the optical sensor 18 is detected.

[0098] The control unit 31 waits in step S12 until the entry of an object is detected in step S12.

[0099] When it is determined in step S12 that the entry of the object is detected, the control unit 31 determines whether the object has entered the first area among the plurality of areas of the detection range R in step S13 .

[0100] When it is determined in step S13 that the object has entered the first area, the control unit 31 proceeds to step S12 and waits until a new object enters the detection range R.

[0101] If it is determined in step S13 that the object has not entered the first area (ie, the object has entered the second area), in step S14 , the control unit 31 causes the power consumption state of the image forming apparatus 10 to transition to the second power consumption state.

[0102] <Example 1>

[0103] Next, an example of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 This is a diagram for explaining the installation state of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the first embodiment. Fig.10 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus 10 of Example 1. Fig. 9 In FIG. 1 , the lower side is displayed as the front side of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0104] like Fig. 9As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming device 10 of the first embodiment is disposed in a position surrounded by partitions on both sides and the back. Fig. 9 There is a passage (in the left side of the image forming device 10).

[0105] In such an environment, a person who merely passes through the passage without using the image forming device 10 may also approach the vicinity of the image forming device 10 .

[0106] The control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 10 obtains information such as the detection state of the optical sensor 18 and the usage status of the image forming apparatus 10 within a predetermined period after the image forming apparatus 10 is installed. Fig.10 The usage environment data is shown. In addition, the usage environment data is updated at a predetermined interval and the settings are also updated.

[0107] The usage environment data is data recording the number of used detections, the number of unused detections, the number of all detections, and the unused rate for each area. In addition, the usage environment data shows the setting of whether or not the restoration is set, that is, whether or not the setting is set as the first area, for each area.

[0108] like Fig.10 As shown in the usage environment data, in the detection range R of the image forming device 10, in the areas A5 and A6 on the right side of the image forming device 10, the non-use rate is higher than a predetermined threshold value (for example, 70%), that is, the expected value of using the image forming device 10 after the object enters each area is smaller than the predetermined threshold value. Therefore, the control unit 31 sets the areas A5 and A6 as non-recovery (first area).

[0109] <Example 2>

[0110] Fig.11 This is a diagram for explaining the installation state of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the second embodiment. Fig.12 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment. Fig.11 In FIG. 1 , the lower side is displayed as the front side of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0111] like Fig.11 As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming device 10 of the second embodiment is disposed at a position surrounded by partitions on both sides and the back. Fig.11 There is a cabinet across the passage (the lower side of the image forming device 10 in the center).

[0112] In such an environment, a person who uses only the cabinet but not the image forming apparatus 10 may also come near the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0113] The control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 10 obtains information such as the detection state of the optical sensor 18 and the usage status of the image forming apparatus 10 within a predetermined period after the image forming apparatus 10 is installed. Fig.12 The usage environment data is shown. In addition, the usage environment data is updated at a predetermined interval and the settings are also updated.

[0114] like Fig.12 As shown in the usage environment data, in the detection range R of the image forming device 10, the non-use rate of the areas A2, A3, and A4 in front of the image forming device 10 is higher than a predetermined threshold value (for example, 70%), that is, the expected value of using the image forming device 10 after the object enters each area is lower than the predetermined threshold value. Therefore, the control unit 31 sets the areas A2, A3, and A4 as non-recovery (first areas).

[0115] <Example 3>

[0116] Fig.13 This is a diagram for explaining the installation state of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the third embodiment. Fig.14 is a table showing usage environment data of the image forming apparatus 10 of Example 3. Fig.13 In FIG. 1 , the lower side is displayed as the front side of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0117] like Fig.13 As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming device 10 of the third embodiment is disposed at a position surrounded by partitions on both sides and the back. Fig.13 In the figure, the lower side of the image forming device 10) is separated by a cabinet. In addition, the right side of the image forming device 10 (in the figure, the lower side of the image forming device 10) is separated by a space. Fig.13 The partition (in the figure is the left side of the image forming device 10) continues to the cabinet in front of the image forming device 10.

[0118] In such an environment, a person who uses only the cabinet but not the image forming device 10 may also approach the vicinity of the image forming device 10. In addition, the boundary of the detection range R of the area A5 on the right side of the image forming device 10 overlaps with the partition, and the boundary of the detection range R of the area A6 on the right side of the image forming device 10 is located beyond the partition.

[0119] The control unit 31 of the image forming apparatus 10 obtains information such as the detection state of the optical sensor 18 and the usage status of the image forming apparatus 10 within a predetermined period after the image forming apparatus 10 is installed. Fig.14 The usage environment data is shown. In addition, the usage environment data is updated at a predetermined interval and the settings are also updated.

[0120] like Fig.14As shown in the usage environment data, in the detection range R of the image forming device 10, in the areas A2, A3, A4, and A5 from the front to the right of the image forming device 10, the non-use rate is higher than a predetermined threshold value (for example, 70%), that is, the expected value of using the image forming device 10 after the object enters each area is lower than the predetermined threshold value. Therefore, the control unit 31 sets the areas A2, A3, A4, and A5 as non-recovery (first area).

[0121] In addition, for the rightmost area A6, since there is a partition, detection that crosses the detection range R will not occur. Fig.14 The detection number is 0. Since the detection number is 0, there is no recovery and no power increase occurs in A6.

[0122] In addition, if Fig.14 As shown in FIG. 1 , when the continuous detection time is recorded for each area as the usage environment data, the control unit 31 performs a setting of whether or not to restore, that is, a setting of the first area, based on the continuous detection time. Specifically, when the continuous detection time is greater than a predetermined threshold (e.g., 15 minutes), it may be set as no restoration (first area). Since area A5 is detected by partitioning, it may be set as no restoration after more than 15 minutes of continuous detection to invalidate the detection.

[0123] [Second embodiment]

[0124] Next, the image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment is described. The image forming apparatus 10 of the second embodiment is configured to be switchable between a first power consumption state as a power saving state with the lowest power consumption, a second power consumption state as a semi-activated state with a larger power consumption than the first power consumption state, and a third power consumption state as an activated state with a larger power consumption than the second power consumption state. Regarding the structure of the image forming apparatus 10, the description of the same structure as the image forming apparatus 10 of the first embodiment is omitted.

[0125] First, detection of a measurement target object by the optical sensor 18 included in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment will be described in detail. Fig.15 It is a diagram for explaining the detection range of the optical sensor 18 according to the present embodiment.

[0126] In the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment, the optical sensor 18 is configured to detect the presence of an object in a first detection range R1 divided into a plurality of regions and in a second detection range R2 closer to the image forming apparatus than the first detection range R1 .

[0127] like Fig.15As shown, the first detection range R1 is a fan-shaped area with a radius D1 based on the optical sensor 18. The optical sensor 18 of this embodiment detects the existence of an object within the detection range R divided into 7 areas A0 to A6 corresponding to the 7 light-emitting areas B of the VCSEL array 40 according to each divided area. The first detection range R1 is set to 1.75m, for example.

[0128] The second detection range R2 is a fan-shaped area with a radius D2 based on the optical sensor 18. The second detection range R2 is set to 0.6 m, for example.

[0129] The control unit 31 sets a part of a plurality of regions (seven regions A0 to A6 in the present embodiment) in the first detection range R1 as the first region.

[0130] In addition, when the image forming device 10 is in the first power consumption state, the control unit 31 does not cause the image forming device 10 to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when an object enters the first area, but causes the image forming device 10 to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when the object enters a second area different from the first area in the first detection range R1, and when the image forming device 10 is in the second power consumption state, causes the image forming device 10 to transition from the second power consumption state to the third power consumption state when the object enters the second detection range R2.

[0131] Next, refer to Fig.16 The flowchart of FIG. 1 will describe the flow of processing when controlling the power consumption state in the image forming apparatus 10 of the present embodiment.

[0132] As an initial state, when there is no object within the first detection range R1 of the optical sensor 18, or when the object exists in the first area even if there is an object within the first detection range R1 of the optical sensor 18, the control unit 31 sets the power consumption state of the image forming device 10 to the first power consumption state with the minimum power consumption in step S21.

[0133] Next, in step S22 , the control unit 31 determines whether or not entry of an object into the first detection range R1 of the optical sensor 18 is detected.

[0134] The control unit 31 waits in step S22 until the entry of an object is detected in step S22.

[0135] When it is determined in step S22 that the entry of the object is detected, the control unit 31 determines in step S23 whether the object has entered the first area among the plurality of areas of the first detection range R1.

[0136] In step S23 , when it is determined that the object has entered the first area, the control unit 31 proceeds to step S22 and waits until a new object enters the detection range.

[0137] When it is determined in step S23 that the object has not entered the first area (ie, the object has entered the second area), the control unit 31 causes the power consumption state of the image forming apparatus 10 to transition to the second power consumption state in step S24 .

[0138] Next, in step S25 , the control unit 31 determines whether or not entry of an object into the second detection range R2 of the optical sensor 18 is detected.

[0139] The control unit 31 waits in step S25 until the entry of an object is detected in step S25 .

[0140] In step S25, if it is determined that the entry of the object is detected, the control unit 31 in step S26 transitions the power consumption state of the image forming apparatus 10 to the third power consumption state. In addition, in step S25, if the object is passing by, the power can be reduced by returning to step S21 after a certain time, or if the object is not detected, the power can be reduced by returning to step S21.

[0141] [Modifications]

[0142] As mentioned above, the information processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention has been described, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiment, and can be modified as appropriate.

[0143] For example, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the case where the technology of the present invention is applied to the image forming device 10 is described, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to such a device, and the technology of the present invention can also be similarly applied to information processing systems such as ATM (Automatic Teller Machine) devices or ticket machines that users approach to operate.

[0144] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, the "system" includes both a system composed of a plurality of devices and a system composed of a single device.

[0145] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, including a general-purpose processor (such as CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.), or a special-purpose processor (such as GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.).

[0146] In addition, the actions of the processors in the above-mentioned embodiments may not be performed by only one processor, but may be performed by cooperation of multiple processors in physically separated locations. In addition, the order of the actions of the processors is not limited to the order described in the above-mentioned embodiments, and may be appropriately changed.

[0147] [Note] (((1)))

[0149] An information processing system comprising:

[0150] A light sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a detection range divided into a plurality of regions according to each of the divided regions; and

[0151] processor;

[0152] The processor

[0153] For each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold is set as a first area,

[0154] When the information processing device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the information processing device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a larger power consumption amount than the first power consumption state. (((2)))

[0156] The information processing system according to (((1))), wherein:

[0157] The processor causes the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when an object enters a second area different from the first area in the detection range. (((3)))

[0159] The information processing system according to (((1))) or (((2))), wherein:

[0160] The processor derives an expected value as a case of using the information processing device for each of the plurality of areas when an object is detected within a detection range closer to the information processing device than each area within a predetermined time after the object is detected in each area. (((4)))

[0162] The information processing system according to (((1))) or (((2))), wherein:

[0163] The processor derives an expected value as a use of the information processing device for each of the plurality of areas when an operation is received on the operation unit within a predetermined time after an object is detected in each area. (((5)))

[0165] The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((4))), wherein:

[0166] The processor sets each of the plurality of areas as the first area when an object is continuously detected in each area for a predetermined time or longer. (((6)))

[0168] The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))), wherein:

[0169] The processor stops detection by the light sensor with respect to the first area. (((7)))

[0171] The information processing system according to any one of (((1))) to (((5))), wherein:

[0172] The processor does not cause the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state even when the optical sensor detects an object in the first area. (((8)))

[0174] An image forming system comprising:

[0175] A light sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and within a second detection range closer to the image forming device than the first detection range; and

[0176] processor,

[0177] The processor

[0178] For each of the plurality of areas in the first detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a specified time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold is set as a first area,

[0179] When the image forming device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the image forming device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state where power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state;

[0180] When an object enters a second area different from the first area in the first detection range, the image forming device is transitioned from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state.

[0181] When the image forming apparatus is in the second power consumption state, if an object enters the second detection range, the image forming apparatus is transitioned from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state having a larger power consumption than the second power consumption state. (((9)))

[0183] A program that causes a computer to:

[0184] a step of detecting the presence of an object within the detection range divided into a plurality of regions according to each of the divided regions;

[0185] For each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, a step of setting, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value;

[0186] A step of not causing the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a larger power consumption amount than the first power consumption state when an object enters the first area while the information processing device is in a first power consumption state. (((10)))

[0188] A program that causes a computer to:

[0189] A step of detecting the presence of an object within a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and within a second detection range closer to an image forming device than the first detection range;

[0190] For each of the plurality of areas in the first detection range, a step of setting, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value;

[0191] When the image forming device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the image forming device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state where the power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state;

[0192] When an object enters a second area different from the first area in the first detection range, causing the image forming device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state; and

[0193] When the image forming apparatus is in the second power consumption state, if an object enters the second detection range, the image forming apparatus is transitioned from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state having a larger power consumption than the second power consumption state.

[0194] The effects of the configuration according to the additional notes will be described below.

[0195] According to the information processing system of (((1))), the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced compared to a case where the information processing device is uniformly detected for an object within a detection range and the information processing device is transitioned from a power saving state to an activation state.

[0196] According to the information processing system of (((2))), the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced compared to a case where the information processing device is uniformly detected for an object within a detection range and the information processing device is transitioned from a power saving state to an activation state.

[0197] According to the information processing system of (((3))), for each of the plurality of areas, the usage rate of the information processing device can be calculated based on whether an object is detected within a detection range close to the information processing device within a specified time after the object is detected.

[0198] According to the information processing system of (((4))), for each of the plurality of areas, the usage rate of the information processing device can be calculated based on whether or not an operation is performed by the user within a predetermined time after the object is detected.

[0199] According to the information processing system of (((5))), even if an object enters an area where the information processing device is not expected to be used, the information processing device can be prevented from transitioning from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0200] According to the information processing system of (((6))), compared with the case where the first area is detected by the optical sensor, the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced.

[0201] According to the information processing system of (((7))), the detection operation of the optical sensor is not changed, and when an object enters the first area, the information processing device can be prevented from transitioning from the power saving state to the activation state.

[0202] According to the image forming system of (((8))), the power consumption of the image forming apparatus can be reduced compared to a case where an object within the detection range is uniformly detected and the image forming apparatus is transitioned from a power saving state to an activation state.

[0203] According to the procedure of (((9))), the power consumption of the information processing device can be reduced compared to a case where an object within the detection range is uniformly detected and the information processing device is transitioned from a power saving state to an activation state.

[0204] According to the procedure of (((10))), the power consumption of the image forming apparatus can be reduced compared to a case where an object within the detection range is uniformly detected and the image forming apparatus is transitioned from the power saving state to the activation state.

Claims

1. An information processing system, characterized in that: have: A light sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a detection range divided into a plurality of regions according to each of the divided regions; as well as processor, The processor For each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold is set as a first area, When the information processing device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the information processing device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a larger power consumption amount than the first power consumption state.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein: The processor causes the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state when an object enters a second area different from the first area in the detection range.

3. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processor derives an expected value as a case of using the information processing device for each of the plurality of areas when an object is detected within a detection range closer to the information processing device than each area within a predetermined time after the object is detected in each area.

4. The information processing system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein: The processor derives an expected value as a use of the information processing device for each of the plurality of areas when an operation is received on the operation unit within a predetermined time after an object is detected in each area.

5. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The processor sets each of the plurality of areas as the first area when an object is continuously detected in each area for a predetermined time or longer.

6. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The processor stops detection by the light sensor with respect to the first area.

7. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein: The processor does not cause the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state even when the optical sensor detects an object in the first area.

8. An image forming system, characterized in that: have: A light sensor capable of detecting the presence of an object within a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and within a second detection range closer to the image forming device than the first detection range; as well as processor, The processor For each of the plurality of areas in the first detection range, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a specified time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold is set as a first area, When the image forming device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the image forming device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state where power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state; When an object enters a second area different from the first area in the first detection range, the image forming device is transitioned from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state. When the image forming apparatus is in the second power consumption state, if an object enters the second detection range, the image forming apparatus is transitioned from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state having a larger power consumption than the second power consumption state.

9. A computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute a process, characterized in that: The process has: a step of detecting the presence of an object within the detection range divided into a plurality of regions according to each of the divided regions; For each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, a step of setting, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value; as well as A step of not causing the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a larger power consumption amount than the first power consumption state when an object enters the first area while the information processing device is in a first power consumption state.

10. A computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute a process, characterized in that: The process has: A step of detecting the presence of an object within a first detection range divided into a plurality of regions and within a second detection range closer to an image forming device than the first detection range; For each of the plurality of areas in the first detection range, a step of setting, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value; When the image forming device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the image forming device is not caused to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state where the power consumption is greater than the first power consumption state; When an object enters a second area different from the first area in the first detection range, causing the image forming device to transition from the first power consumption state to the second power consumption state; as well as When the image forming apparatus is in the second power consumption state, if an object enters the second detection range, the image forming apparatus is transitioned from the second power consumption state to a third power consumption state having a larger power consumption than the second power consumption state.

11. An information processing method, characterized in that: have: a step of detecting the presence of an object within the detection range divided into a plurality of regions according to each of the divided regions; For each of the plurality of areas in the detection range, a step of setting, as a first area, an area in which an expected value derived based on the number of times the information processing device is used within a prescribed time after an object is detected in each area is smaller than a predetermined threshold value; as well as When the information processing device is in a first power consumption state, if an object enters the first area, the step of not causing the information processing device to transition from the first power consumption state to a second power consumption state having a larger power consumption amount than the first power consumption state.

Images