Image forming apparatus

Abstract

An image forming apparatus includes: an operation unit that receives power supply and performs an operation related to image formation; a detection unit that detects the entry of an object from the operation unit into a detection region that is a predetermined range; and a processor that, when a job in which the operation is executed by the operation unit is received, expands the range of the detection region detected by the detection unit compared to when the job is not received, and changes the state of the operation unit in accordance with the detection result of the detection unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus. Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses an image forming apparatus including: a cassette area that temporarily stores print data; a human sensor unit that detects a person present in a detection area; and a mode control unit that controls switching between a normal mode, a light sleep mode, and a deep sleep mode. In this image forming apparatus, the following is described: in the deep sleep mode, if a person is detected entering the detection area while print data is stored in the cassette area, the normal mode is returned, and if a person is detected entering the detection area while no print data is stored in the cassette area, the light sleep mode is returned.

[0003] Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2021-17003 Summary of the Invention

[0004] In an image forming apparatus having an operation unit that performs operations related to image formation, it is sometimes detected that an object such as a user enters a predetermined detection area, and the state of the operation unit is changed based on the detection result. Here, when the range of the detection area is made constant regardless of whether a job for executing an operation based on the operation unit is being received, the following false detection is likely to occur: when no job is received, a person or an object other than the user using the image forming apparatus is detected and the state of the operation unit is changed.

[0005] An object of the present invention is to make false detection caused by a detection unit less likely to occur when no job is received, as compared with a case where the range of the detection area based on the detection unit is made equal when a job is received and when no job is received.

[0006] The invention according to Solution 1 is an image forming apparatus including: an operation unit that is supplied with power and performs operations related to image formation; a detection unit that detects an object entering a detection area that is a predetermined range from the operation unit; and a processor that performs the following processing: when a job for executing the operation by the operation unit is received, the range of the detection area detected by the detection unit is expanded as compared with a case where no job is received, and the state of the operation unit is changed based on the detection result of the detection unit.

[0007] The invention according to Solution 2 is the image forming apparatus according to Solution 1, wherein the processor performs the following processing: after expanding the range of the detection area when a job is received, if a predetermined expansion time has elapsed, the detection area is returned to the original range.

[0008] The invention according to Embodiment 3 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 2, wherein the processor makes the extension time different according to at least one of the type of job and the status of the job.

[0009] The invention according to Embodiment 4 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 3, wherein the processor makes the extension time when a new job is received in a state where there is a job before being executed by the action unit shorter than the extension time when a new job is received in a state where there is no job before being executed by the action unit.

[0010] The invention according to Embodiment 5 is the image forming apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 4, wherein the action unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium as the action, and when the processor detects that an object has entered the detection area after expanding the range of the detection area upon receiving a job, the processor makes the action unit in a state where it can perform an action by the image forming unit.

[0011] The invention according to Embodiment 6 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 5, wherein the action unit further includes a display unit that displays information related to the formation of an image as the action, and the processor performs the following processing:

[0012] During the period from when the range of the detection area is expanded upon receiving a job until a predetermined period has elapsed, when it is detected that an object has entered the detection area, the action unit is made in a state where it can perform an action based on the display unit and the image forming unit, and after the period has elapsed, when it is detected that an object has entered the detection area, the action unit is made in a state where it can perform an action based on the display unit.

[0013] The invention according to Embodiment 7 is the image forming apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 6, wherein the detection unit detects the entry of an object into each of the detection sections into which the detection area is divided, and when the processor receives a job, the processor expands the range of the detection area based on the detection unit for each of the detection sections.

[0014] The invention according to Embodiment 8 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 7, wherein the detection section for expanding the range of the detection area is preset for each type of job, and the processor expands the range of the preset detection section according to the type of job received.

[0015] The invention according to Embodiment 9 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 8, wherein the detection section for expanding the range of the detection area is set according to the history of the detection of the entry of an object by the detection unit when a job was received in the past.

[0016] The invention according to Embodiment 10 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 9, wherein the processor performs the following processing: in a job of saving data for forming an image in a predetermined storage area, after the data is saved in the storage area, when the operation unit performs an operation of forming an image based on the data, the detection section that detected the presence of an object before the operation is set as the detection section for expanding the range of the detection area.

[0017] The invention according to Embodiment 11 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 7, wherein the processor performs the following processing: when no operation is performed by the operation unit during a period from when the detection section detects the presence of an object in the expanded detection section until a predetermined period has elapsed, the range of the detection section is set to be narrower.

[0018] The invention according to Embodiment 12 is the image forming apparatus according to any one of Embodiments 1 to 11, wherein the processor performs the following processing: the operation unit is controlled to be in a normal state capable of performing the operation or in a low power consumption state having lower power consumption than the normal state, and when an object is detected to enter the detection area while the operation unit is controlled in the low power consumption state, the operation unit is changed from the low power consumption state to the normal state.

[0019] The invention according to Embodiment 13 is the image forming apparatus according to Embodiment 12, wherein the processor performs the following processing: the operation unit is controlled to be in a first low power consumption state and a second low power consumption state having higher power consumption than the first low power consumption state as the low power consumption state; when an object is detected to enter the expanded detection area while the operation unit is controlled in the first low power consumption state, the operation unit is changed from the first low power consumption state to the second low power consumption state; and when an object is detected to enter the detection area before expansion while the operation unit is controlled in the second low power consumption state, the operation unit is changed from the second low power consumption state to the normal state.

[0020] Advantageous Effects of the Invention

[0021] According to the first aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the range of the detection area based on the detection section is made equal in the case of receiving a job and the case of not receiving a job, false detection caused by the detection section in the case of not receiving a job can be made less likely to occur.

[0022] According to the second aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the range of the detection area continues to be expanded even after the expansion time has elapsed, false detection caused by the detection section can be made less likely to occur.

[0023] According to the third aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the extension time is the same regardless of the type and state of the operation, it is possible to make false detection by the detection unit less likely to occur.

[0024] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the extension period is not shortened when a new operation is received in the state where there is an operation before execution, it is possible to make false detection by the detection unit less likely to occur.

[0025] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the operation unit is not made capable of operating when the detection unit detects the entry of an object, it is possible to shorten the standby time during the period from when the user arrives at the image forming apparatus until the start of the operation based on the image forming unit.

[0026] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the operation unit is made capable of operating based on the display unit and the image forming unit even when an object enters the detection area after a predetermined period has elapsed, it is possible to reduce the power consumption in the image forming apparatus.

[0027] According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the range of the detection area is not extended for each detection section, it is possible to make false detection by the detection unit less likely to occur.

[0028] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the entire detection area is extended regardless of the type of operation, it is possible to make false detection by the detection unit less likely to occur.

[0029] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the detection unit does not set the detection section to be extended based on the history of detecting the entry of an object, it is easier to extend the detection section where the possibility of the user entering is high.

[0030] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the detection section where the detection unit detects the presence of an object before the operation of forming an image is not set as the detection section for extending the range of the detection area, it is easier to extend the detection section where the possibility of the user entering is high.

[0031] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the range of the detection section is not reduced when the operation of the operation unit is not performed, it is possible to make false detection by the detection unit less likely to occur.

[0032] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the operation unit is not changed from the low power consumption state to the normal state when the detection unit detects the entry of an object, it is possible to shorten the standby time during the period from when the user arrives at the image forming apparatus until the start of the operation based on the operation unit.

[0033] According to the 13th aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the operation unit is changed from the first low power consumption state to the normal state when an object enters the extended detection area, the power consumption in the image forming apparatus can be reduced. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0034] Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the following drawings.

[0035] Figure 1 is an overall view of an image forming apparatus to which this embodiment is applied;

[0036] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the control device;

[0037] Figure 3 is a diagram schematically illustrating the detection operation based on the human sensor;

[0038] Figure 4 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing performed by the information processing unit;

[0039] Figure 5 of (a) to Figure 5 of (b) is a diagram illustrating the range of the detection area based on the human sensor;

[0040] Figure 6 is a diagram showing the relationship between the type or status of the print job received by the information processing unit and the first recovery time and the extension time;

[0041] Figure 7 is a diagram illustrating the detection area based on the human sensor in this embodiment;

[0042] Figure 8 is a diagram showing the range of the detection area when a print job is received;

[0043] Figure 9 is a diagram showing an example of a setting screen which is a display screen displayed on the operation display unit and used for setting a specific block by user operation input;

[0044] Figure 10 is a diagram illustrating the detection area based on the human sensor in this embodiment;

[0045] Figure 11 is a diagram showing the relationship between the type or status of the print job received by the information processing unit and the second recovery time, the third recovery time, and the extension time;

[0046] Figure 12 is a diagram showing the range of the detection area when a print job is received.

[0047] Symbol Explanation

[0048] 1 - Image forming apparatus, 10 - Image forming unit, 20 - Image reading unit, 30 - Operation display unit, 60 - Power supply device, 70 - Human presence sensor, 80 - Control device, 81 - Information processing unit, 90 - Setting screen, 300 - Detection area, 300A - Normal range, 300B - Extended range, 400 - Inner peripheral area, 500 - Outer peripheral area. Detailed Embodiment

[0049] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0050] [Embodiment 1]

[0051] Figure 1 is an overall view of the image forming apparatus 1 to which this embodiment is applied. In Figure 1 it, the image forming apparatus 1 is shown with the front side of the paper surface side as the front side of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0052] The image forming apparatus 1 includes: an image forming unit 10 that forms an image on a paper; an image reading unit 20 that reads an image; and an operation display unit 30 that displays information to a user and accepts operation inputs from the user. Further, the image forming apparatus 1 includes: a paper feeding unit 40 that supplies paper to the image forming unit 10; and a paper discharging unit 50 that discharges the paper on which an image has been formed by the image forming unit 10.

[0053] In the image forming apparatus 1 of this embodiment, the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, the operation display unit 30, the paper feeding unit 40, and the paper discharging unit 50 are an example of operation units that receive power supply and perform actions related to image formation.

[0054] In addition, the image forming apparatus 1 includes: a power supply device 60 that supplies power to the units constituting the image forming apparatus 1; a human presence sensor 70 that detects a user or the like entering a predetermined area from the image forming apparatus 1; and a control device 80 that controls each part of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0055] In addition, in this embodiment, the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, the operation display unit 30, the paper feeding unit 40, the paper discharging unit 50, the human presence sensor 70, the control device 80, etc. included in the image forming apparatus 1 may be referred to as units constituting the image forming apparatus 1.

[0056] The image forming unit 10 forms an image corresponding to a print job on a sheet of paper, for example, by an electrophotographic method. The image forming unit 10 includes, for example: a photoreceptor; a charger that charges the photoreceptor; an exposure device that exposes the photoreceptor according to image data; a developing device that develops an electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor by exposure with a toner; and a transfer unit that transfers the toner image developed by the developing device to the sheet of paper. Further, the image forming unit 10 includes a fixing unit that fixes the transferred toner image to the sheet of paper.

[0057] The image reading unit 20 reads a document and generates image data representing the read image.

[0058] The operation display unit 30 has a function of displaying information and a function of accepting operation inputs from a user. The operation display unit 30 is composed of a touch panel display in which a touch panel is laminated on a display such as a liquid crystal panel. The operation display unit 30 displays a display screen for accepting operations from the user, and accepts operation inputs from the user via this display screen. In the present embodiment, the operation display unit 30 accepts an instruction to execute output processing based on a print job by an operation input from the user.

[0059] The power supply device 60 receives power supply from a commercial power supply (not shown) and supplies power to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1, such as the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, the operation display unit 30, the human presence sensor 70, and the control device 80.

[0060] The power supply device 60 of the present embodiment supplies power to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 separately. Incidentally, the power supply device 60 is controlled by an information processing unit 81 (refer to Figure 2 ) of the control device 80 described later, and is switched separately for each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 between a power supply state and a power supply stop state. Further, the power supply device 60 changes the power supply amount to each unit according to the control based on the information processing unit 81.

[0061] The human presence sensor 70 detects the presence of a user or the like who enters a predetermined detection area 300 (refer to Figure 3 ) around the image forming apparatus 1. The human presence sensor 70 is an example of a detection unit.

[0062] In addition, the structure of the human presence sensor 70 and the detection area 300 based on the human presence sensor 70 will be described in detail later.

[0063] Figure 2 is a diagram showing the hardware configuration of the control device 80.

[0064] The control device 80 includes: an information processing unit 81 that processes information; a storage unit 82 that stores information; and a communication unit 83 that communicates with external devices such as a PC (Personal Computer). In the control device 80, the information processing unit 81, the storage unit 82, and the communication unit 83 are connected to a bus 85, and data is transmitted and received via the bus 85.

[0065] The information processing unit 81 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 81a, a ROM (ReadOnly Memory) 81b, and a RAM (Random Access Memory) 81c.

[0066] The CPU 81a is an example of a processor, and by loading various programs stored in the ROM 81b etc. into the RAM 81c and executing them, each function of the control device 80 is realized. The RAM 81c is a memory used as a working memory etc. for the CPU 81a. The ROM 81b is a memory that stores various programs etc. executed by the CPU 81a.

[0067] Here, the program executed by the CPU 81a can be provided in a state stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a magnetic recording medium (magnetic tape, magnetic disk, etc.), an optical recording medium (optical disc, etc.), a magneto-optical recording medium, or a semiconductor memory. Also, the program executed by the CPU 81a can be provided using communication means such as the Internet.

[0068] The information processing unit 81 receives, for example, a print job from an external device such as a PC connected via the communication unit 83. A print job refers to a series of processes performed in the image forming apparatus 1.

[0069] As a print job received by the information processing unit 81, for example, there can be cited a print job in which image data acquired from a PC etc. via the communication unit 83 is saved in a predetermined storage area of the storage unit 82 and then output processing is performed. In the present embodiment, the storage unit 82 has a plurality of cartridges (a first cartridge, a second cartridge, a third cartridge, and reference can also be made to the following Figure 6 .) as the predetermined storage area. For example, the first cartridge, the second cartridge, and the third cartridge are created for each user using the image forming apparatus 1, and each cartridge is associated with information about the user.

[0070] A user who wants to execute a print job on the image forming apparatus 1 issues an instruction to execute the print job using a PC or the like connected to the image forming apparatus 1. Specifically, the user uses a PC or the like connected to the image forming apparatus 1 to input information related to the cartridge that stores the image data in the storage unit 82, information related to the type of output processing performed by the print job, and the image data for the output processing.

[0071] The information related to the cartridge is, for example, information for determining the cartridge that stores the image data among the multiple cartridges determined in the storage unit 82.

[0072] The type of output processing performed by the print job is not particularly limited. However, for example, there can be mentioned a printing process in which an image is formed on paper by the image forming unit 10 based on the image data, a transmission process in which the image data is sent to another apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication unit 83, and the like. Also, as the transmission destination of the transmission process, there can be mentioned sending the image data to a PC or another image forming apparatus 1 and facsimile transmission of the image data.

[0073] In addition, the output processing performed by these print jobs is an example and is not particularly limited.

[0074] The information processing unit 81 acquires the information related to the cartridge, the information related to the type of output processing performed by the print job, and the image data for the output processing, and accepts the print job.

[0075] If the print job is accepted, the information processing unit 81 stores the acquired image data in the cartridge of the storage unit 82 determined by the information related to the cartridge.

[0076] Then, when the user operates the operation display unit 30 and issues an instruction to perform the output processing based on the print job, the information processing unit 81 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 to execute the output processing.

[0077] Also, as the print job accepted by the information processing unit 81, for example, there can be mentioned the following facsimile reception process: After storing the image data received by facsimile via the communication unit 83 in a predetermined storage area of the storage unit 82, an image is formed on paper by the image forming unit 10 based on the image data.

[0078] For example, when a facsimile is received, the information processing unit 81 notifies that the facsimile has been received via the display screen of the operation display unit 30 or via a PC or the like connected to the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication unit 83. Then, when the user operates the operation display unit 30 and issues an instruction to perform the output processing based on the print job, the information processing unit 81 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 and forms an image on paper based on the image data received by facsimile.

[0079] Further, the information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment switches the image forming apparatus 1 to a plurality of power consumption modes with different power supply methods to each unit by the power supply device 60. In other words, the information processing unit 81 switches the image forming apparatus 1 to a plurality of power consumption modes with different power consumption amounts.

[0080] In the present embodiment, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to a normal mode as one of the plurality of power consumption modes and a low power consumption mode with a lower power consumption than the normal mode.

[0081] The normal mode indicates a state in which the power supply device 60 supplies power to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1, and each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 can perform a predetermined operation. The normal mode is an example of a normal state.

[0082] For example, when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the normal mode, by supplying power to the operation display unit 30, the operation display unit 30 can display a predetermined display screen and can receive an operation input from the user via the display screen.

[0083] Further, when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the normal mode, for example, on the occasion of an operation input by the user to the operation display unit 30 or the like, an operation of forming an image on a sheet by the image forming unit 10 or an operation of reading an original by the image reading unit 20 can be started. Incidentally, when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the normal mode, output processing based on a print job can be performed.

[0084] The low power consumption mode is a state in which the power consumption is smaller than that in the normal mode by partially stopping the power supply to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 by the power supply device 60 or reducing the power supply amount to each unit. The low power consumption mode is an example of a low power consumption state.

[0085] When the image forming apparatus 1 is in the low power consumption mode, the power supply amount supplied to each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 is reduced except for the control device 80 or the human sensor 70. Accordingly, when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the low power consumption mode, the display screen is not displayed on the operation display unit 30. Further, when the image forming apparatus 1 is in the low power consumption mode, an operation of forming an image on a sheet by the image forming unit 10 or an operation of reading an original by the image reading unit 20 cannot be performed.

[0086] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode according to the operations of each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 or the detection result of the human sensor 70 or the like.

[0087] For example, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the operations of the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, the operation display unit 30, etc. are not performed within a predetermined period, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode to the low power consumption mode.

[0088] Also, in the image forming apparatus 1, when a user is detected by the human presence sensor 70 to enter the detection area 300 (refer to Figure 3 ), the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode. In the present embodiment, in the image forming apparatus 1, when the power consumption mode is switched to the normal mode, power is supplied to at least the operation display unit 30 to display the display screen, so that operations on the operation display unit 30 can be performed.

[0089] Here, the switching of the power consumption mode in the image forming apparatus 1 is not performed immediately. That is, after the switching process of the power consumption mode based on the information processing unit 81 starts, it takes time until the power consumption mode is switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0090] Hereinafter, the time required to switch the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode may sometimes be referred to as the switching time.

[0091] Next, the structure of the human presence sensor 70 and an outline of the detection operation based on the human presence sensor 70 will be described.

[0092] Figure 3 It is a diagram for explaining an outline of the detection operation based on the human presence sensor 70. Figure 3 Corresponding to the view of the image forming apparatus 1 observed from the III direction Figure 1 shown in the figure. That is, Figure 3 Corresponding to the view of the image forming apparatus 1 observed from above.

[0093] The human presence sensor 70 detects the presence of a user or the like who enters a predetermined area around the image forming apparatus 1. As the human presence sensor 70, for example, a distance measuring sensor can be used, which includes: a light source that irradiates light to a predetermined area; and a light receiving unit that receives the reflected light reflected from the light irradiated from the light source.

[0094] As Figure 3 shown, the human presence sensor 70 irradiates light to a predetermined area on the front side of the image forming apparatus 1. Hereinafter, the area where the human presence sensor 70 can irradiate light to detect the presence of a user or the like will be referred to as the detection area 300. That is, the human presence sensor 70 irradiates light to a predetermined detection area 300 on the front side of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0095] In this example, the detection area 300 has a fan-shaped shape that extends toward the front side of the image forming apparatus 1 centered on the human sensor 70 when the image forming apparatus 1 is viewed from above. Also, in this example, the central angle of the fan-shaped detection area 300 is an angle of 150 degrees or more and 180 degrees or less. Additionally, the shape of the detection area 300 is not particularly limited, but a fan shape is preferred because it can detect a user moving toward the image forming apparatus 1 regardless of the moving direction of the user.

[0096] When a user using the image forming apparatus 1 enters the detection area 300, the light emitted from the human sensor 70 is reflected by the user. The human sensor 70 detects the presence of the user in the detection area 300 by receiving the reflected light reflected by the user who has entered the detection area 300. Then, the human sensor 70 outputs the result of detecting the presence of the user in the detection area 300 to an information processing unit 81 (see Figure 2 ) of the control device 80 described later.

[0097] If the human sensor 70 detects the presence of a user in the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 starts the process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0098] Here, it is possible to consider a case where a user instructs the execution of a print job from a PC connected to the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication unit 83.

[0099] The user first operates the PC to instruct the image forming apparatus 1 to execute a print job. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 1 receives the print job. Then, the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 and issues an instruction related to the output of the print job by operating the operation display unit 30. Thereby, in the image forming apparatus 1, the image forming unit 10 and the like execute the output process of the image data based on the print job.

[0100] In the image forming apparatus 1 of the present embodiment, when executing the output process of the image data based on the print job, it is necessary to switch the power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0101] As described above, in order to switch the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode, a switching time is required. For example, after the user who has instructed the execution of the print job moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1, if it is desired to switch the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode, the user needs to standby in front of the image forming apparatus 1 until the switching of the power consumption mode is completed and the operation display unit 30 can be operated for input.

[0102] In contrast, in the present embodiment, when it is detected that the user enters the detection area 300, the process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode is started. Thereby, it is possible to shorten the standby time of the user until the operation display unit 30 can be operated after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0103] Here, the wider the range of the detection area 300 is, the farther the position where the user enters the detection area 300 is from the image forming apparatus 1. At this time, after the human sensor 70 detects that the user enters the detection area 300, it takes time to reach the front of the image forming apparatus 1. Therefore, during the period when the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1, it is easy to complete the switching of the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode. As a result, it is possible to further shorten the standby time of the user until the operation display unit 30 can be operated after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0104] On the other hand, if the range of the detection area 300 is wide, it is easy for the human sensor 70 to detect a person other than the user who wants to perform the output process based on the print job in the image forming apparatus 1. For example, when there is a passage through which people pass or a table where people work around the image forming apparatus 1, if the range of the detection area 300 is wide, it is easy to detect the presence of people passing through the passage or people working on the table by the human sensor 70.

[0105] Then, when the image forming apparatus 1 does not receive a print job, if a person other than the user is detected by the human sensor 70, although the possibility of no output process being performed in the image forming apparatus 1 thereafter is high, the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 will be switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0106] In addition, hereinafter, the situation where an object is detected by the human sensor 70 and the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode although no output process based on the print job is performed is sometimes referred to as a false detection.

[0107] In the image forming apparatus 1, if the human sensor 70 makes a false detection, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 tends to increase.

[0108] In contrast, in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment, when a print job is received, the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is expanded compared to the case where no print job is received. As a result, false detection by the human sensor 70 in the case where no print job is received is less likely to occur than in the case where the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is made equal in the case where a print job is received and in the case where no print job is received.

[0109] Hereinafter, the process of expanding the range of the detection area 300 by the information processing unit 81 in the image forming apparatus 1 according to the present embodiment when a print job is received will be specifically described.

[0110] Figure 4 It is a flowchart showing an example of the process performed by the information processing unit 81.

[0111] Figure 5 of (a) to Figure 5 of (b) is a diagram for explaining the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70. Figure 5 of (a) shows the range of the detection area 300 when the image forming apparatus 1 has not received a print job, Figure 5 of (b) shows the range of the detection area 300 when the image forming apparatus 1 has received a print job. Figure 5 of (a) to Figure 5 of (b) corresponds to a view of the image forming apparatus 1 as viewed from above.

[0112] When the operations of the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, the operation display unit 30, etc. of the image forming apparatus 1 are not performed within a predetermined period, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the low power consumption mode (step 101).

[0113] Next, the information processing unit 81 determines whether a print job has been received (step 102).

[0114] When the image forming apparatus 1 has not received a print job (\"No\" in step 102), the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to a predetermined normal range 300A (step 103).

[0115] As Figure 5 shown in (a) of, the normal range 300A is a fan-shaped range that extends toward the front side of the image forming apparatus 1 with the human sensor 70 as the center, and is a range where the distance from the human sensor 70 is D1 or less. The distance D1 is the radius of the normal range 300A of the fan shape, that is, the distance from the human sensor 70 to the outer peripheral edge of the normal range 300A.

[0116] On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job (Yes in step 102), the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to an extended range 300B that is wider than the normal range 300A (step 104). Incidentally, compared with the case where the image forming apparatus 1 does not receive a print job, the information processing unit 81 expands the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70.

[0117] As Figure 5 shown in (b) of, the extended range 300B is a fan-shaped range that extends toward the front side of the image forming apparatus 1 with the human sensor 70 as the center, and is a range where the distance from the human sensor 70 is equal to or less than the distance D2. The distance D2 of the extended range 300B is greater than the distance D1 of the normal range 300A (D2 > D1). The distance D2 is the radius of the fan-shaped extended range 300B, that is, the distance from the human sensor 70 to the outer peripheral edge of the extended range 300B.

[0118] In addition, in this example, in the fan-shaped extended range 300B and the normal range 300A, the angle of the central angle remains unchanged.

[0119] Next, the information processing unit 81 acquires from the storage unit 82 the extension time, which is the time when the detection area 300 is set to the extended range 300B (step 105).

[0120] In the present embodiment, the extension time is determined in advance according to the type of the print job and the status of the print job in the image forming apparatus 1, and is stored in the storage unit 82. In addition, the extension time will be described in detail in the following section.

[0121] Next, after the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the extended range 300B in step 104, it determines whether the extension time acquired in step 105 has elapsed (step 106).

[0122] If the extension time has not elapsed (No in step 106), the information processing unit 81 continues the process of step 106 until the extension time elapses.

[0123] On the other hand, if the extension time has elapsed (Yes in step 106), the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the normal range 300A (step 107).

[0124] Thereby, the information processing unit 81 ends the series of processes for setting the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70.

[0125] In addition, after the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 to the normal range 300A in steps 103 and 107, and after setting the detection area 300 to the extended range 300B in step 104, it controls the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 based on the detection result of the human presence sensor 70.

[0126] Incidentally, when the human presence sensor 70 detects that a user or the like has entered the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode. And when the human presence sensor 70 does not detect that a user or the like has entered the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 continues to set the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the low power consumption mode.

[0127] As such, the image forming apparatus 1 to which the present embodiment is applied includes: each unit, including an image forming unit 10 or an operation display unit 30 that receives power supply and performs operations related to image formation; a human presence sensor 70 that detects an object entering a detection area 300 that is a predetermined range from the image forming unit 10; and an information processing unit 81. Then, when receiving a print job, compared with the case of not receiving a print job, the information processing unit 81 expands the range of the detection area 300 based on the human presence sensor 70, and changes the state of the image forming unit 10 or the operation display unit 30 according to the detection result based on the human presence sensor 70.

[0128] Here, in the above example, as a method of expanding the range of the detection area 300 based on the human presence sensor 70 when receiving a print job, compared with the case of not receiving a print job, the case of expanding the area where the human presence sensor 70 can detect the presence of a user or the like has been described. Incidentally, in the above example, when not receiving a print job, the human presence sensor 70 cannot detect the presence of a user or the like at a position further outside than the normal range 300A. On the other hand, when receiving a print job, by expanding the range of the detection area 300, the human presence sensor 70 can detect the presence of a user or the like at a position in the extended range 300B further outside than the normal range 300A.

[0129] The method of expanding the range of the detection area 300 based on the human presence sensor 70 when receiving a print job, compared with the case of not receiving a print job, also includes the method described below. That is, regardless of whether a print job is received, there is no need to change the area where the human presence sensor 70 can detect the presence of a user or the like. In the case of receiving a print job and in the case of not receiving a print job, it is also possible to change the range of the process in which the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 according to the detection result based on the human presence sensor 70.

[0130] If described with reference to Figure 5 (b) of, the human sensor 70 can detect the presence of a user or the like entering the normal range 300A and the extended range 300B regardless of whether a print job is received.

[0131] Then, when no print job is received, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode when the position of the user or the like detected by the human sensor 70 is within the normal range 300A. On the other hand, when the position of the user or the like detected by the human sensor 70 is outside the normal range 300A, the information processing unit 81 does not perform the process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0132] In addition, when a print job is received, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode when the detected position is within the extended range 300B outside the normal range 300A, except when the position of the user or the like detected by the human sensor 70 is within the normal range 300A.

[0133] Next, the extension time, which is the time when the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is set to the extended range 300B when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job, will be described.

[0134] As described above, in the present embodiment, when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job, the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is set to the extended range 300B wider than the normal range 300A. Thereby, it is possible to shorten the standby time of the user from when the user arrives in front of the image forming apparatus 1 until the user can perform an operation input on the operation display unit 30.

[0135] On the other hand, if the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is continuously set to the extended range 300B during the period from when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job until the output process based on the print job is completed, false detection by the human sensor 70 is likely to occur.

[0136] In contrast, in the present embodiment, after the information processing unit 81 receives a print job and sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the extended range 300B, if a predetermined extension time has elapsed, the detection area 300 is set to the normal range 300A. Thereby, when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job and does not perform the output process based on the print job, false detection by the human sensor 70 can be suppressed.

[0137] Here, the time from when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job until the user operates the image forming apparatus 1 to start output processing based on the print job sometimes varies depending on the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81, the status of the print job, and the like.

[0138] For example, in a print job where image data is saved in a cassette and then output processing is performed, after the user issues an instruction to execute the print job using a PC or the like, it often takes a long time before the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 and starts output processing according to the print job.

[0139] On the other hand, in a print job where an image is formed on paper based on image data received by fax, the time from when the user receives the fax in the image forming apparatus 1 and receives the print job until the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 and starts output processing based on the print job tends to be long. At this time, although the possibility of the user performing output processing based on the print job is low, if the detection area 300 of the human sensor 70 is continuously in the extended range 300B, a person other than the user may enter the detection area 300 and false detection by the human sensor 70 is likely to occur.

[0140] The information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment makes the extension time different according to the type of print job received. Specifically, when the received print job is a print job where an image is formed on paper based on image data received by fax, the information processing unit 81 shortens the extension time compared to the case where the print job is a print job where image data is saved in a cassette and then output processing is performed. When the received print job is a print job where image data is saved in a cassette and then output processing is performed, the information processing unit 81 can set the extension time to, for example, 30 minutes. And when the received print job is a print job where an image is formed on paper based on image data received by fax, the information processing unit 81 can set the extension time to, for example, 5 minutes.

[0141] Thereby, when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job for which the possibility of the user performing output processing based on the print job is low, it is possible to suppress a person other than the user from entering the detection area 300, and false detection by the human sensor 70 is less likely to occur.

[0142] In addition, when there are a plurality of cassettes storing image data for output processing based on a print job, the extension time for each cassette can be made different.

[0143] Moreover, even when the received print job is a print job that performs output processing after storing image data in the cassette, when another print job received by the information processing unit 81 in the past remains in the same cassette without performing output processing, the possibility that the user starts output processing based on the newly received print job is low. At this time, although the possibility that the user performs output processing based on the print job is low, if the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is continuously in the extended range 300B, a person other than the user may enter the detection area 300 and false detection by the human sensor 70 is likely to occur.

[0144] The information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment makes the extension time different according to the state of the print job in the image forming apparatus 1. Specifically, the information processing unit 81 makes the extension time when a new print job for the same cassette is received in a state where another print job before output processing remains in the cassette shorter than the extension time when a new print job is received in a state where there is no other print job. The information processing unit 81 can set the extension time when a new print job for the same cassette is received in a state where another print job before output processing remains in the cassette to, for example, 10 minutes. And, as described above, the information processing unit 81 can set the extension time when a new print job is received in a state where there is no other print job to, for example, 30 minutes.

[0145] Thereby, in a case where the possibility that the user performs output processing based on the print job according to the state of the print job in the image forming apparatus 1 is low, it is possible to suppress a person other than the user from entering the detection area 300, and false detection by the human sensor 70 is not likely to occur.

[0146] (Modification Example of Embodiment 1)

[0147] In the above embodiment, the case where the human sensor 70 detects that the user enters the detection area 300 and switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode and at least enables the operation display unit 30 to be operable has been described. Generally, a user who desires to perform output processing based on a print job in the image forming apparatus 1 first operates the operation display unit 30 after moving to the front of the image forming apparatus 1. Therefore, in a case where the human sensor 70 detects that the user enters the detection area 300, if the operation display unit 30 can be at least operated, it is possible to suppress the standby time from becoming long after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0148] On the other hand, in the case where the output processing based on the print job is the processing of forming an image on the paper by the image forming unit 10 based on the image data, when performing the output processing, it is necessary to supply power to the image forming unit 10 so that the image forming unit 10 is in a state capable of performing the operation of forming an image on the paper. In order to make the image forming unit 10 in a state capable of performing the operation, for example, it is necessary to supply power to the image forming unit 10 to heat the fixing unit to a predetermined temperature, so it sometimes takes time.

[0149] In contrast, after the information processing unit 81 receives the print job and sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the extended range 300B, when the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched to the normal mode according to the detection result based on the human sensor 70, the image forming unit 10 and the operation display unit 30 can also be in a state capable of operating. Thereby, the standby time of the user can be shortened from the time when the user arrives in front of the image forming apparatus 1 until the output processing based on the print job starts by the image forming unit 10.

[0150] Moreover, for example, after the information processing unit 81 receives the print job and sets the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the extended range 300B, if a predetermined time (hereinafter, referred to as the first recovery time) has elapsed, when the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode according to the detection result based on the human sensor 70, it is preferable to make only the operation display unit 30 in a state capable of operating.

[0151] In other words, during the period from when the detection area 300 is set to the extended range 300B until the first recovery time elapses, when the image forming apparatus 1 is switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode, the operation display unit 30 and the image forming unit 10 are made in a state capable of operating. And after the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 to the extended range 300B and the first recovery time elapses, when the image forming apparatus 1 is switched from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode, only the operation display unit 30 is made in a state capable of operating.

[0152] In order for the image forming unit 10 to be in an operable state, as described above, it is necessary to heat the fixing unit, etc., and the power consumption tends to be large compared to the case of making the operation display unit 30 in an operable state. If the operation display unit 30 and the image forming unit 10 are in an operable state when the image forming apparatus 1 is switched to the normal mode based on the detection result of the human sensor 70, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 is likely to increase in the case of false detection by the human sensor 70. Also, when some time has passed after the information processing unit 81 receives a print job, there is a high possibility that the user will not perform the output process based on the print job, and false detection by the human sensor 70 tends to easily occur.

[0153] In contrast, when the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 to the extended range 300B and after the first recovery time, and switches the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode, only the operation display unit 30 is made operable, whereby even in the case of false detection by the human sensor 70, it is possible to suppress excessive power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0154] The first recovery time can be made different according to the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81, the status of the print job, etc.

[0155] Figure 6 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81 or the status of the print job and the first recovery time and the extension time.

[0156] In Figure 6 In the example shown, as the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81, for the print job of outputting the image data after storing it in a cartridge and the print job of forming an image on paper based on the image data received by fax (fax reception), the first recovery time and the extension time are set separately.

[0157] Also, for the print job of outputting the image data after storing it in a cartridge, the first recovery time and the extension time are set for each cartridge (the first cartridge, the second cartridge, the third cartridge) storing the image data.

[0158] As Figure 6 shown, when the print job received by the information processing unit 81 is the print job of forming an image on paper based on the image data received by fax, the first recovery time is shortened compared to the case where the print job is the print job of outputting the image data after storing it in a cartridge.

[0159] As described above, in a printing job of forming an image on paper based on image data received by fax, the time from when the user receives the fax in the image forming apparatus 1 and receives the printing job until the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 and starts the output process based on the printing job is likely to be long. At this time, although the possibility of the user performing the output process based on the printing job is low, if the first recovery time is extended, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 is likely to increase in the case of false detection caused by the human sensor 70.

[0160] When the received printing job is a printing job of forming an image on paper based on image data received by fax, the information processing unit 81 shortens the first recovery time compared to the case where the printing job is a printing job of outputting the image data after storing it in a cartridge, whereby even in the case of false detection caused by the human sensor 70, it is possible to suppress excessive power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0161] [Embodiment 2]

[0162] In Embodiment 1, a method of overall expanding the detection area 300 by the information processing unit 81 when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a printing job has been described.

[0163] In contrast, in Embodiment 2, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 is divided into a plurality of blocks, and when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a printing job, the information processing unit 81 expands the detection area 300 for each block.

[0164] Figure 7 It is a diagram for explaining the detection area 300 of the human sensor 70 in the present embodiment.

[0165] Figure 8 It is a diagram showing the range of the detection area 300 when a printing job is received.

[0166] Figure 7 and Figure 8 It corresponds to a diagram of the image forming apparatus 1 viewed from above.

[0167] As Figure 7As shown, in Embodiment 2, the detection area 300 of the human sensor 70 is divided into a plurality (12 in this example) of blocks (the first block 301, the second block 302, ……, the twelfth block 312) as an example of detection sections. Specifically, the detection area 300 has a fan shape that extends toward the front side of the image forming apparatus 1 with the human sensor 70 as the center, similar to Embodiment 1. Then, the detection area 300 is divided into the first block 301, the second block 302, ……, the twelfth block 312 from the left side to the right side in the figure, so that the central angle is equally divided into 12 equal parts. In addition, hereinafter, without distinguishing the first block 301, the second block 302, ……, the twelfth block 312, they are sometimes collectively referred to as blocks 301 to 312. Each of the blocks 301 to 312 has a fan shape with the human sensor 70 as the center.

[0168] The human sensor 70 of the present embodiment detects the presence of a user or the like for each of the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300. Incidentally, the human sensor 70 can detect which one of the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 a user or the like has entered. Then, the human sensor 70 outputs the result of detecting the presence of a user or the like in the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 to the information processing unit 81 (refer to Figure 2 ).

[0169] If the human sensor 70 detects the presence of a user or the like in the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 performs a process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0170] Similar to Embodiment 1, the information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment sets each of the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to a predetermined normal range 300A when the image forming apparatus 1 has not received a print job.

[0171] And, when the image forming apparatus 1 has received a print job, the information processing unit 81, as Figure 8 shown, sets the ranges of the first block 301, the second block 302, and the third block 303 selected from the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 to an extended range 300B that is wider than the normal range 300A. Incidentally, compared with the case where the image forming apparatus 1 has not received a print job, the information processing unit 81 expands the ranges of the first block 301, the second block 302, and the third block 303 of the detection area 300.

[0172] On the other hand, even when the image forming apparatus 1 has received a print job, the information processing unit 81 does not expand the ranges of the fourth block 304 to the twelfth block 312 of the detection area 300.

[0173] In addition, hereinafter, among the blocks 301 to 312 in the detection area 300, the blocks whose ranges are expanded when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job may be referred to as specific blocks, and the blocks whose ranges are not expanded may be referred to as other blocks.

[0174] In the present embodiment, by expanding the ranges of the first block 301 to the third block 303 when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, the human sensor 70 can detect a user entering the first block 301 to the third block 303 at a position farther from the image forming apparatus 1. Thus, when a user who desires to perform output processing based on a print job approaches the image forming apparatus 1 from the side of the first block 301 to the third block 303, it is easy to switch the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the low power consumption mode to the normal mode during the period until the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1. As a result, it is possible to further shorten the standby time of the user after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1 until the user can perform an operation input on the operation display unit 30.

[0175] Moreover, in the present embodiment, by not expanding the ranges of the fourth block 304 to the twelfth block 312 when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, a person other than a user who desires to perform output processing based on a print job is less likely to enter the fourth block 304 to the twelfth block 312. Thus, when a print job is received and output processing based on the print job is not performed, false detection by the human sensor 70 is less likely to occur.

[0176] The information processing unit 81 preferably sets, for example, the blocks in the plurality of blocks 301 to 312 in the detection area 300 where there is a high possibility that a user who desires to perform output processing of a print job enters as specific blocks whose ranges are expanded when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job.

[0177] The information processing unit 81 can set, for example, specific blocks whose ranges are expanded when a print job is received in the plurality of blocks 301 to 312 in the detection area 300 based on an operation input to a display screen displayed on the operation display unit 30.

[0178] Figure 9 FIG. is an example of a setting screen 90 which is a display screen displayed on the operation display unit 30 and is used to set specific blocks by an operation input of a user.

[0179] The information processing unit 81 can set specific blocks for each type of print job based on an operation input to the setting screen 90, for example. In this example, the information processing unit 81 sets specific blocks for each cartridge (the first cartridge, the second cartridge, the third cartridge) in which image data is stored for a print job in which output processing is performed after the image data is stored in the cartridge. Figure 9The setting screen 90 for setting a specific block for the expansion range in the case where the print job received by the information processing unit 81 is a print job that performs output processing after saving the image data in the first cassette is shown.

[0180] As Figure 9 shown, the setting screen 90 includes a selection bar 91 for selecting a specific block for the expansion range from among the plurality of blocks 301 to 312 in the detection area 300.

[0181] In Figure 9 the example shown, in the selection bar 91 of the setting screen 90, the first block 301, the second block 302, and the third block 303 are selected from among the plurality of blocks 301 to 312 in the detection area 300.

[0182] The information processing unit 81 sets the first block 301, the second block 302, and the third block 303 as specific blocks for the expansion range in the case where a print job is received by the image forming apparatus 1 according to the selection of the selection bar 91 in the setting screen 90.

[0183] Here, as described above, in a print job that performs output processing after saving the image data in a cassette, a cassette (first cassette, second cassette, third cassette) for saving the image data is created for each user who uses the image forming apparatus 1. In other words, in a print job that performs output processing after saving the image data in a cassette, the user who desires to perform output processing based on the print job is determined for each cassette. And usually, in a space such as an office where the image forming apparatus 1 is installed, the positions of desks and the like where each user works are often fixed. Thus, in a print job that performs output processing after saving the image data in a cassette, in each cassette, the direction in which the user who desires to perform output processing based on the print job moves toward the image forming apparatus 1 is often limited to a specific direction.

[0184] In the present embodiment, the information processing unit 81 can easily set a block with a high possibility of entry by the user who desires to perform output processing of the print job as a specific block by determining a specific block for the expansion range in the case where a print job is received for each cassette.

[0185] In addition, regardless of the type of the print job or the status of the print job, etc., when the user who desires to perform output processing of the print job moves toward the image forming apparatus 1 from a specific direction in many cases, the information processing unit 81 can also set, regardless of the type of the print job or the status of the print job, etc., specific blocks for the expansion range in the case where a print job is received. At this time, compared with the case of setting specific blocks individually according to the type of the print job or the status of the print job, the burden on the user required for setting specific blocks can be reduced.

[0186] Further, for example, the information processing unit 81 can set a specific block with an extended range when receiving a print job based on the history in blocks 301 to 312 where the human sensor 70 detected that the user entered the detection area 300 when a print job was received in the past.

[0187] For example, when the information processing unit 81 detects that a user or the like has entered blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 after receiving a print job, the information processing unit 81 associates the detected entry block with information related to whether output processing based on the print job has been performed in the image forming apparatus 1 after the entry is detected, and stores the same as a history in the storage unit 82.

[0188] Then, based on the history stored in the storage unit 82, the information processing unit 81 sets, as a specific block with an extended range, a block in blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 where the number of times of output processing based on the print job has been performed in the image forming apparatus 1 after the human sensor 70 detected that a user or the like entered is large.

[0189] Thus, the information processing unit 81 can set, as a specific block with an extended range when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, a block in which there is a high possibility that a user who desires to perform output processing of a print job enters among the plurality of blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300.

[0190] Further, based on the history stored in the storage unit 82, the information processing unit 81 sets, as other blocks without an extended range, blocks in blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 where the number of times of output processing based on the print job has not been performed in the image forming apparatus 1 after the human sensor 70 detected that a user or the like entered is large. In other words, the information processing unit 81 sets, as other blocks, blocks in blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 where false detection by the human sensor 70 has occurred after receiving a print job.

[0191] Thus, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job and the possibility of a user performing output processing based on the print job is low, entry of a person other than the user into the detection area 300 can be suppressed, and false detection by the human sensor 70 is less likely to occur.

[0192] In addition, in the above-described embodiment, when receiving a print job, the information processing unit 81 extends the range of the first block 301 to the third block 303 as a specific block to be an extended range 300B, so that the range of the first block 301 to the third block 303 is extended to be larger than the range of the fourth block 304 to the twelfth block 312 as other blocks. However, when receiving a print job, the method by which the information processing unit 81 extends the range of a specific block is not limited to this.

[0193] When the information processing unit 81 receives a print job, it can set the ranges of all the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 as the extended range 300B, and then reduce other blocks (such as the 4th block 304 to the 12th block 312) with a low possibility of output processing based on the print job by the user to a range smaller than the extended range 300B (such as the normal range 300A).

[0194] For example, when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job, it sets the ranges of all the blocks 301 to 312 of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 as the extended range 300B. Then, assume that although an object is detected by the human sensor 70 to enter one of the blocks 301 to 312 (such as the 4th block 304), no output processing based on the print job is performed. At this time, when the information processing unit 81 then receives a print job, it sets the 1st block 301 to the 3rd block 303, the 5th block 305 to the 12th block 312 of the detection area 300 except for the 4th block 304 as the extended range 300B, and sets the 4th block 304 to a range narrower than the extended range 300B.

[0195] Then, the information processing unit 81 repeats the above processing. As a result, the range of the blocks where an object is detected by the human sensor 70 but no output processing based on the print job is performed gradually becomes narrower compared to other blocks.

[0196] As a result, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, in the case where the possibility of output processing based on the print job by the user is low, it is possible to prevent people other than the user from entering the detection area 300, and it is less likely to occur false detection caused by the human sensor 70.

[0197] [Embodiment 3]

[0198] In Embodiment 1, a method in which the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode and a low power consumption mode with less power consumption than the normal mode according to the detection result of the human sensor 70 and the like has been described.

[0199] In contrast, in Embodiment 3, the difference from Embodiment 1 is that the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode, the first low power consumption mode with less power consumption than the normal mode, and the second low power consumption mode.

[0200] Here, the normal mode is the same as in Embodiment 1, the power supply device 60 supplies power to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1, and each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 is in a state capable of performing a predetermined operation.

[0201] The first low power consumption mode refers to a state in which the power supply to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 is partially stopped or the power supply amount to each unit is reduced compared to the normal mode, and the power consumption is smaller than that in the normal mode. The first low power consumption mode is an example of the first low power consumption state.

[0202] The second low power consumption mode refers to a state in which the power supply amount to each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 is reduced compared to the normal mode, the power consumption is smaller than that in the normal mode, and the power consumption is larger than that in the first low power consumption mode. The second low power consumption mode is an example of the second low power consumption state.

[0203] In the second low power consumption mode, similar to the first low power consumption mode, the display of the display screen based on the operation display unit 30, the operation of forming an image based on the image forming unit 10, the operation of reading an original document based on the image reading unit 20, etc. cannot be performed. On the other hand, in the second low power consumption mode, compared to the first low power consumption mode, a larger amount of power is supplied to the operation display unit 30, the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, etc. Thus, in the image forming apparatus 1, compared to the first switching time required to switch from the first low power consumption mode to the normal mode, when switching from the second low power consumption mode to the normal mode, the second switching time required for switching the power consumption mode is shortened.

[0204] Figure 10 It is a diagram for explaining the detection area 300 of the human sensor 70 in the present embodiment. Figure 10 It corresponds to a diagram of observing the image forming apparatus 1 from above. In Figure 10 it shows the detection area 300 set by the information processing unit 81 (refer to Figure 2 ) when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job.

[0205] As Figure 10 shown, the detection area 300 of the human sensor 70 in the present embodiment as a whole has a fan shape that expands toward the front side of the image forming apparatus 1 with the human sensor 70 as the center. Then, the detection area 300 has an inner peripheral area 400 located on the inner peripheral side of the detection area 300 and an outer peripheral area 500 that expands to the outer periphery of the inner peripheral area 400. In this example, the range of the inner peripheral area 400 is equal to the normal range 300A of the detection area 300 described in Embodiment 1. And the range of the outer peripheral area 500 is equal to the range obtained by removing the normal range 300A from the extended range 300B of the detection area 300 described in Embodiment 1.

[0206] When the operations of the units constituting the image forming apparatus 1, such as the image forming unit 10, the image reading unit 20, and the operation display unit 30, are not performed within a predetermined period, the information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment sets the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the first low power consumption mode.

[0207] Further, similar to the first embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 1 does not receive a print job, the information processing unit 81 sets the range of the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 to the normal range 300A.

[0208] Then, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the detection area 300 without receiving a print job, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the first low power consumption mode to the normal mode. Thereby, the image forming apparatus 1 supplies power to at least the operation display unit 30, and thus is in a state where the operation display unit 30 can be operated.

[0209] Further, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, as Figure 10 shown, the detection area 300 is set to an extended range 300B including the inner peripheral area 400 and the outer peripheral area 500. Incidentally, the information processing unit 81 expands the range of the detection area 300 compared to the case where the image forming apparatus 1 does not receive a print job.

[0210] In addition, similar to the first embodiment, after expanding the range of the detection area 300 when receiving a print job, if a predetermined expansion time has elapsed, the information processing unit 81 returns the range of the detection area 300 to the normal range 300A.

[0211] Here, in the present embodiment, the information processing unit 81 switches the image forming apparatus 1 to different power consumption modes when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the inner peripheral area 400 of the detection area 300 and when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500 of the detection area 300.

[0212] Specifically, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user or the like has entered the outer peripheral area 500, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the first low power consumption mode to the second low power consumption mode.

[0213] And when the user or the like who has entered the outer peripheral area 500 further moves toward the image forming apparatus 1 and enters the inner peripheral area 400, and the human sensor 70 detects that the user or the like has entered the inner peripheral area 400, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the second power consumption mode to the normal mode.

[0214] Thus, when the information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment receives a print job, by setting the range of the detection area 300 to the extended range 300B including the inner peripheral area 400 and the outer peripheral area 500, compared with the case where the range of the detection area 300 is not expanded, it is easier to switch each unit of the image forming apparatus 1 to an operable state during the period until the user who wants to perform output processing based on the print job reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1. Accordingly, it is possible to suppress an increase in the standby time after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0215] Moreover, in the extended range 300B including the inner peripheral area 400 and the outer peripheral area 500, it is easy for people other than the user who wants to perform output processing based on the print job to enter the outer peripheral area 500.

[0216] When the information processing unit 81 of the present embodiment detects that a person or the like has entered the outer peripheral area 500 by the human sensor 70, by switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the first low power consumption mode to the second low power consumption mode, for example, compared with the case of switching from the first low power consumption mode to the normal mode, it is possible to suppress an increase in the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 when a person entering the outer peripheral area 500 is erroneously detected.

[0217] (Modification 1 of Embodiment 3)

[0218] Here, in the above embodiment, the case where the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 is switched from the first low power consumption mode to the second low power consumption mode when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500 of the extended detection area 300 has been described.

[0219] In contrast, when the information processing unit 81 receives a print job and expands the detection area 300 and until a predetermined recovery time has elapsed, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500, the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 may also be switched to the normal mode in which each unit constituting the image forming apparatus 1 can operate.

[0220] Specifically, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500 until a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the second recovery time) has elapsed after the detection area 300 is expanded, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode, so that the operation display unit 30 and the image forming unit 10 are in an operable state.

[0221] Accordingly, it is possible to shorten the standby time of the user after the user reaches the front of the image forming apparatus 1 until the output processing based on the print job is started by the image forming unit 10.

[0222] Further, after the detection area 300 is expanded and after the second recovery time has elapsed until a predetermined time (hereinafter referred to as the third recovery time) has elapsed, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500, the information processing unit 81 switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode and only enables the operation display unit 30 to be in an operable state.

[0223] As described above, if a long time elapses after the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job and the detection area 300 is expanded, there is a high possibility that the user will not perform the output process based on the print job, and false detection by the human sensor 70 tends to occur easily.

[0224] In contrast, after the second recovery time has elapsed until the third recovery time has elapsed, when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500, only the operation display unit 30 is enabled to operate. Thus, even when false detection by the human sensor 70 occurs, it is possible to suppress excessive power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0225] In addition, after the detection area 300 is expanded and after the second recovery time and the third recovery time have elapsed, the information processing unit 81, in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment, switches the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 from the first low power consumption mode to the second low power consumption mode when the human sensor 70 detects that a user has entered the outer peripheral area 500.

[0226] Here, the second recovery time and the third recovery time may be made different according to the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81, the status of the print job, and the like.

[0227] Figure 11 It is a diagram showing the relationship between the type of print job received by the information processing unit 81 or the status of the print job and the second recovery time, the third recovery time, and the expansion time.

[0228] In Figure 11 In the example shown, as the types of print jobs received by the information processing unit 81, for a print job in which image data is stored in a cassette and then output, and a print job (fax reception) in which image data based on fax reception is formed on paper, the second recovery time, the third recovery time, and the expansion time are set separately.

[0229] Further, for a print job in which image data is stored in a cassette and then output, the second recovery time, the third recovery time, and the expansion time are set for each cassette (the first cassette, the second cassette, and the third cassette) in which the image data is stored.

[0230] Moreover, for a print job that performs output processing after storing image data in a cartridge, a second recovery time, a third recovery time, and an extension time are set for the case where other print jobs before the output processing remain in the cartridge.

[0231] As Figure 11 shown, when the print job received by the information processing unit 81 is a print job for forming an image on paper based on image data received by fax, the second recovery time is shortened compared to the case where the print job is a print job that performs output processing after storing the image data in the cartridge. In this example, when the print job received is a print job for forming an image on paper based on image data received by fax, the second recovery time is set to 0 minutes.

[0232] As described above, the time from when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a fax and a print job until the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 1 and starts output processing based on the print job is likely to be long. When the print job received by the information processing unit 81 is a print job for forming an image on paper based on image data received by fax, the second recovery time is shortened compared to the case where the print job is a print job that performs output processing after storing the image data in the cartridge. Thus, even when a false detection occurs by the human sensor 70, excessive power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 can be suppressed.

[0233] Here, when the second recovery time is 0 minutes, if the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, the information processing unit 81 only makes the operation display unit 30 in a state where it can operate when the human sensor 70 detects that the user has entered the outer peripheral area 500.

[0234] At this time, when the user enters the outer peripheral area 500 by passing near the image forming apparatus 1, by activating the operation display unit 30, the user can easily grasp that the image forming apparatus 1 has received image data by fax.

[0235] And, as Figure 11 shown, when other print jobs before the output processing remain in the cartridge, the information processing unit 81 shortens the second recovery time and the third recovery time compared to the case where there are no other print jobs before the output processing. In this example, when other print jobs before the output processing remain in the cartridge, the information processing unit 81 sets the second recovery time to 0 minutes.

[0236] When other print jobs received by the information processing unit 81 in the past are in a state of remaining in the same cassette without output processing, the possibility that the user starts output processing based on a newly received print job is low. In contrast, when other print jobs before output processing remain in the cassette, compared with the case where there are no other print jobs before output processing, the information processing unit 81 shortens the second recovery time and the third recovery time, so that even when a false detection occurs by the human sensor 70, excessive power consumption of the image forming apparatus 1 can be suppressed.

[0237] (Modification Example 2 of Embodiment 3)

[0238] Also, in Embodiment 3, similar to Embodiment 2, the detection area 300 based on the human sensor 70 can be divided into a plurality of blocks.

[0239] Figure 12 It is a diagram showing the range of the detection area 300 in the case of receiving a print job. Figure 12 Corresponding to a view of the image forming apparatus 1 from above.

[0240] Figure 12 The inner peripheral area 400 of the detection area 300 shown is divided into a plurality (12 in this example) of blocks (the first block 401, the second block 402,..., the twelfth block 412) as an example of detection sections.

[0241] Similarly, the outer peripheral area 500 of the detection area 300 is divided into a plurality (12 in this example) of blocks (the first block 501, the second block 502,..., the twelfth block 512) as an example of detection sections.

[0242] Then, the human sensor 70 of the present embodiment detects the presence of a user or the like for each of the blocks 401 to 412 of the inner peripheral area 400 and the blocks 501 to 512 of the outer peripheral area 500 in the detection area 300.

[0243] If the human sensor 70 detects the presence of a user or the like in the blocks 501 to 512 of the outer peripheral area 500 in the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 performs a process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the second low power consumption mode.

[0244] And, if the human sensor 70 detects the presence of a user or the like in the blocks 401 to 412 of the inner peripheral area 400 in the detection area 300, the information processing unit 81 performs a process of switching the power consumption mode of the image forming apparatus 1 to the normal mode.

[0245] In this example, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, the information processing unit 81 sets the detection area 300 to a range including the inner peripheral area 400 and the outer peripheral area 500.

[0246] And, in this example, as Figure 12 shown, when expanding the detection area 300, the ranges of the first block 501 to the third block 503 in the outer peripheral area 500 are made wider than those of the fourth block 504 to the twelfth block 512.

[0247] Thus, in this example, when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, the human sensor 70 can detect a user entering the first block 501 to the third block 503 of the outer peripheral area 500 at a position farther from the image forming apparatus 1.

[0248] And, in this example, when the information processing unit 81 expands the detection area 300 when the image forming apparatus 1 receives a print job, the ranges of the fourth block 504 to the twelfth block 512 in the outer peripheral area 500 are made narrower than those of the first block 501 to the third block 503. Thus, a person other than a user who desires to perform output processing based on the print job is less likely to enter the fourth block 504 to the twelfth block 512 of the outer peripheral area 500. Thus, when a print job is received and output processing based on the print job is not performed, false detection by the human sensor 70 is less likely to occur.

[0249] In addition, regarding the specific blocks in the outer peripheral area 500 whose ranges are wider than those of other blocks, similarly to the second embodiment, it is possible to determine based on operation inputs to the operation display unit 30, the history of the human sensor 70 detecting a user when a print job was received in the past, and the like.

[0250] As described above, embodiments of the present invention have been described, but the technical scope of the present invention is not limited to the scope described in the foregoing embodiments. From the description of the technical solutions, embodiments obtained by making various changes or improvements to the above embodiments are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

[0251] The processor in the above embodiments refers to a processor in a broad sense. In addition to a general-purpose processor (for example, a CPU (= Central Processing Unit (central processor))), it also includes a dedicated processor (for example, a GPU (= Graphics Processing Unit (graphics processor)), an ASIC (= Application Specific Integrated Circuit (application-specific integrated circuit)), an FPGA (= Field Programmable Gate Array (field-programmable gate array)), a programmable logic device, etc.).

[0252] Moreover, the operations of the processor in the embodiments may be performed by a single processor alone, or may be performed in cooperation by multiple processors located at physically separate locations. Also, the order of execution of each operation in the processor is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments and may be changed individually.

[0253] <Supplementary Note> (1)

[0255] An image forming apparatus, comprising:

[0256] An operation unit that receives power supply and performs operations related to image formation;

[0257] A detection unit that detects an object entering a detection area that is a predetermined range from the operation unit; and

[0258] A processor,

[0259] The processor performs the following processing:

[0260] When receiving a job for performing the operation by the operation unit, compared with the case of not receiving a job, expand the range of the detection area detected by the detection unit, and change the state of the operation unit according to the detection result of the detection unit. (2)

[0262] The image forming apparatus according to (1), wherein

[0263] The processor performs the following processing:

[0264] After expanding the range of the detection area upon receiving a job, if a predetermined expansion time has elapsed, return the detection area to the original range. (3)

[0266] The image forming apparatus according to (2), wherein

[0267] The processor makes the expansion time different according to at least one of the type of job and the state of the job. (4)

[0269] The image forming apparatus according to (3), wherein

[0270] The processor makes the expansion time shorter when receiving a new job in a state where there is a job before being executed by the operation unit than when receiving a new job in a state where there is no job before being executed by the operation unit. (5)

[0272] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (4), wherein,

[0273] The operation unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium as the operation.

[0274] When the processor expands the range of the detection area upon receiving a job and then the detection unit detects that an object has entered the detection area, the processor causes the operation unit to be in a state where the image forming unit can perform an operation. (6)

[0276] The image forming apparatus according to (5), wherein,

[0277] The operation unit further includes a display unit that displays information related to the formation of an image as the operation.

[0278] The processor performs the following processing:

[0279] During the period from when the range of the detection area is expanded upon receiving a job until a predetermined period has elapsed, when it is detected that an object has entered the detection area, the processor causes the operation unit to be in a state where it can perform an operation based on the display unit and the image forming unit.

[0280] After the predetermined period has elapsed, when it is detected that an object has entered the detection area, the processor causes the operation unit to be in a state where it can perform an operation based on the display unit. (7)

[0282] The image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (6), wherein,

[0283] The detection unit detects the entry of an object into each detection section of the detection area that is divided into a plurality of detection sections.

[0284] When the processor receives a job, it expands the range of the detection area based on the detection unit for each detection section. (8)

[0286] The image forming apparatus according to (7), wherein,

[0287] The detection section for expanding the range of the detection area is preset for each type of job.

[0288] The processor expands the range of the preset detection section according to the type of job received. (9)

[0290] The image forming apparatus according to (8), wherein,

[0291] Set the detection section that expands the range of the detection area according to the history of the detection unit detecting the entry of an object when receiving a job in the past. (10)

[0293] According to the image forming apparatus described in (9), wherein

[0294] The processor performs the following processing:

[0295] In a job of storing data for forming an image in a predetermined storage area, after the data is stored in the storage area, when the action unit performs an action of forming an image based on the data, set the detection section where the detection unit detected the presence of an object before the action as the detection section that expands the range of the detection area. (11)

[0297] According to the image forming apparatus described in (7), wherein

[0298] The processor performs the following processing:

[0299] When no action is performed by the action unit during the period from when the detection unit detects the presence of an object in the expanded detection section until a predetermined period has elapsed, set the range of the detection section to be narrower. (12)

[0301] According to the image forming apparatus according to any one of (1) to (11), wherein

[0302] The processor performs the following processing:

[0303] Control the action unit to be in a normal state capable of performing the action or a low power consumption state with lower power consumption than the normal state,

[0304] When the action unit is controlled in the low power consumption state and an object is detected to enter the detection area, change the action unit from the low power consumption state to the normal state. (13)

[0306] According to the image forming apparatus described in (12), wherein

[0307] The processor performs the following processing:

[0308] Control the action unit to be in a first low power consumption state and a second low power consumption state with higher power consumption than the first low power consumption state as the low power consumption state;

[0309] In a state where the operation unit is controlled to be in the first low power consumption state, when an object is detected to enter the extended detection area, the operation unit is changed from the first low power consumption state to the second low power consumption state; and

[0310] In a state where the operation unit is controlled to be in the second low power consumption state, when an object is detected to enter the detection area before the extension, the operation unit is changed from the second low power consumption state to the normal state.

[0311] According to the image forming apparatus according to (1), compared with a case where the range of the detection area based on the detection unit is made equal in the case of receiving a job and in the case of not receiving a job, false detection caused by the detection unit in the case of not receiving a job can be made less likely to occur.

[0312] According to the image forming apparatus according to (2), compared with a case where the range of the detection area continues to be extended even after the extension time has elapsed, false detection caused by the detection unit can be made less likely to occur.

[0313] According to the image forming apparatus according to (3), compared with a case where the extension time is made the same regardless of the type and state of the job, false detection caused by the detection unit can be made less likely to occur.

[0314] According to the image forming apparatus according to (4), compared with a case where the extension period is not shortened when a new job is received in a state where there is a job before execution, false detection caused by the detection unit can be made less likely to occur.

[0315] According to the image forming apparatus according to (5), compared with a case where the operation unit is not made capable of operating when the detection unit detects the entry of an object, the standby time from when the user arrives at the image forming apparatus until the start of the operation based on the image forming unit can be shortened.

[0316] According to the image forming apparatus according to (6), compared with a case where the operation unit is made capable of operating based on the display unit and the image forming unit even when an object is detected to enter the detection area after a predetermined period has elapsed, the power consumption in the image forming apparatus can be reduced.

[0317] According to the image forming apparatus according to (7), compared with a case where the range of the detection area is not extended for each detection section, false detection caused by the detection unit can be made less likely to occur.

[0318] According to the image forming apparatus according to (8), compared with a case where the entire detection area is extended regardless of the type of job, false detection caused by the detection unit can be made less likely to occur.

[0319] The image forming apparatus according to (9) can more easily expand a detection section where there is a high possibility of user entry, as compared with a case where the detection section is set without using a history of detecting entry of an object by the detection unit.

[0320] The image forming apparatus according to (10) can more easily expand a detection section where there is a high possibility of user entry, as compared with a case where a detection section in which the presence of an object is detected by the detection unit before an image forming operation is not set as a range of an expanded detection area.

[0321] The image forming apparatus according to (11) can make it less likely that false detection occurs by the detection unit, as compared with a case where the range of the detection section is not reduced when an operation by the operation unit is not performed.

[0322] The image forming apparatus according to (12) can shorten a standby time during a period from when a user arrives at the image forming apparatus until the start of an operation by the operation unit, as compared with a case where the operation unit is not changed from a low power consumption state to a normal state when the detection unit detects entry of an object.

[0323] The image forming apparatus according to (13) can reduce power consumption in the image forming apparatus, as compared with a case where the operation unit is changed from a first low power consumption state to a normal state when an object is detected as having entered an expanded detection area.

[0324] The above-described embodiments of the present invention are provided for purposes of illustration and description. In addition, the embodiments of the present invention do not comprehensively and exhaustively cover the present invention and do not limit the present invention to the disclosed forms. Obviously, various modifications and variations will be apparent to those skilled in the art to which the present invention pertains. These embodiments are selected and described in order to most easily explain the principles of the present invention and its applications. Thus, other technical personnel in this technical field can understand the present invention through various modified examples optimized for specific uses assumed for various embodiments. The scope of the present invention is defined by the above claims and their equivalents.

Claims

1. An image forming device comprising: an action unit that receives power supply and performs an action related to image formation; a detection unit configured to detect that an object enters a detection area that is a predetermined range from the action unit; and processor, The processor performs the following processing: When a job for the operation unit to perform the operation is received, the range of the detection area detected by the detection unit is expanded compared to a case where no job is received, and the state of the operation unit is changed according to the detection result of the detection unit.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: After the detection area is expanded in response to a job, the detection area is returned to its original range after a predetermined expansion time has passed.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein: The processor varies the extension time according to at least one of a type of job and a state of the job.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein: The processor makes the extension time shorter when a new job is accepted while a previous job is being executed by the operation unit than when a new job is accepted while a previous job is not being executed by the operation unit.

5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein: The operation unit includes an image forming unit that forms an image on a recording medium as the operation. The processor causes the operation unit to be in a state where the image forming unit can operate, when the detection unit detects that an object has entered the detection area after the detection unit has expanded the detection area in response to a job.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, wherein: The operation unit further includes a display unit for displaying information related to image formation as the operation. The processor performs the following processing: During the period from when the detection area is expanded due to the operation until a predetermined period has passed, when an object is detected to have entered the detection area, the operation unit is placed in a state where the operation can be performed by the display unit and the image forming unit, After the period has elapsed, when it is detected that an object has entered the detection area, the operation unit is placed in a state where the display unit can perform an operation.

7. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6, wherein: The detection unit detects the entry of an object in each detection section of the detection area divided into a plurality of detection sections. When receiving the job, the processor expands the range of the detection area by the detection unit for each of the detection sections.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein: The detection section that expands the range of the detection area is pre-set for each type of operation, The processor expands the range of the preset detection section according to the type of the accepted job.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein: The detection section that expands the range of the detection area is set based on the history of the detection of the entry of the object by the detection unit when the work was received in the past.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 9, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: In an operation of saving data for forming an image in a predetermined storage area, after the data is saved in the storage area, when the action unit performs an action to form an image based on the data, the detection segment in which the presence of an object is detected by the detection unit before the action is set as the detection segment that expands the range of the detection area.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: If the operation by the operation unit is not performed during a period from when the detection unit detects the presence of an object in the expanded detection zone until a predetermined period has elapsed, the range of the detection zone is set to be narrower.

12. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: The operation unit is controlled to be in a normal state in which the operation can be performed or in a low power consumption state in which power consumption is lower than that in the normal state. In a state where the operation unit is controlled in the low power consumption state, when it is detected that an object enters the detection area, the operation unit is changed from the low power consumption state to the normal state.

13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 12, wherein: The processor performs the following processing: controlling the action unit to be in a first low power consumption state and a second low power consumption state which consumes more power than the first low power consumption state as the low power consumption state; In a state where the operation unit is controlled to be in the first low power consumption state, when it is detected that an object enters the expanded detection area, the operation unit is changed from the first low power consumption state to the second low power consumption state; and When an object is detected to enter the detection area before expansion while the operation unit is controlled to be in the second low power consumption state, the operation unit is changed from the second low power consumption state to the normal state.

Images