Image forming apparatus

Abstract

The invention relates to an image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes an internal load disposed inside the image forming apparatus, a connection unit to which an external load is connectable, a power source configured to supply power to the internal load and the external load, and a calculation unit configured to calculate a power consumption value of the internal load, the power consumption control unit acquires a device-specific power consumption value of an external load connected to the connection unit, and performs a calculation including an addition of the power consumption value of the internal load and the device-specific power consumption value of the external load.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus. Background Technology

[0002] In recent years, green transformation (GX) has become a challenge for businesses. As a result, there is a growing need to visualize the power consumption of image forming devices such as multifunction printers (MFPs). Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-064521 proposes to calculate not only the power consumption of thermal heads, but also the power consumption of Universal Serial Bus (USB) devices.

[0003] In Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-064521, when a USB device is connected to a USB port, the maximum power that the USB port can supply is obtained as the power consumption of the USB device. However, since the power consumption of a USB device varies depending on the type of USB device, the calculation method in Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-064521 calculates an excessively high power consumption. Summary of the Invention

[0004] This disclosure provides an image forming apparatus, comprising: an internal load disposed within the image forming apparatus, a connection unit to which an external load can be connected, a power supply configured to supply power to the internal load and the external load; and a computing unit configured to calculate the power consumption value of the internal load, obtain a device-specific power consumption value of the external load connected to the connection unit, and perform calculations including the addition of the power consumption value of the internal load and the device-specific power consumption value of the external load.

[0005] The features of this disclosure will become clear with reference to the accompanying drawings and the following description of the embodiments. Attached Figure Description

[0006] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and form a part of this specification, illustrate embodiments of the present disclosure and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the embodiments.

[0007] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus.

[0008] Figure 2 It is a diagram illustrating the user interface.

[0009] Figure 3 It is a state transition diagram concerning the power state.

[0010] Figure 4 It is a diagram used to describe the energy consumption addition method and the accumulation method.

[0011] Figure 5It is a diagram used to describe the method of adding energy consumption.

[0012] Figure 6 It is a block diagram illustrating the function of the computing unit.

[0013] Figure 7 This is a diagram illustrating the first table.

[0014] Figure 8 This is a diagram illustrating the second table.

[0015] Figure 9 This is a diagram illustrating the third table.

[0016] Figure 10 It is a diagram illustrating the method of energy consumption accumulation.

[0017] Figure 11 It is a flowchart illustrating the control method.

[0018] Figure 12 It is a flowchart illustrating the control method.

[0019] Figure 13 It is a flowchart illustrating the control method.

[0020] Figure 14 This is a diagram illustrating an image forming apparatus.

[0021] Figure 15 This is a diagram illustrating the second table.

[0022] Figure 16 It is a flowchart illustrating the control method.

[0023] Figure 17A and Figure 17B It is a sequence diagram illustrating the process used to retrieve information from a server computer. Detailed Implementation

[0024] In the following, embodiments will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Note that the following embodiments are not intended to limit the scope of the claims. Several features are described in the embodiments, but not all such features are required, and multiple such features may be combined as appropriate. Furthermore, in the drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same or similar configurations, and redundant descriptions thereof are omitted.

[0025] First Embodiment

[0026] 1. Image forming apparatus

[0027] In the first embodiment, a power consumption calculation method considering the power-on state of an optional device connected to the image forming apparatus will be described, as well as a configuration for implementing the power consumption calculation method.

[0028] Figure 1 This is a diagram illustrating the structure of the image forming apparatus 10. The image forming apparatus 10 mainly includes a controller module 100, an operation unit 120, a scanner module 130, a printer module 140, and a fixing module 150.

[0029] The controller module 100 has a substrate 100a, and components implemented on the substrate 100a may include a computing unit 101, an image processing unit 102, memories 103-106, a control unit 107, I / Fs 108-114, a timer 118, and a power supply circuit 191. I / F is an abbreviation for "interface" and may also refer to a port, connector, or terminal according to a technical standard (e.g., the Universal Serial Bus standard). The power supply circuit 191 may include a USB controller. The USB controller may include communication circuitry for communicating with USB devices and power supply circuitry for providing power to the USB devices.

[0030] The substrate 100a may consist of a single circuit board or multiple circuit boards. The computing unit 101 is a processor (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU)) responsible for controlling the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 and responding to print jobs received from peripheral devices (e.g., a personal computer (PC)). When the image processing apparatus 10 is started, the computing unit 101 reads a boot program stored in memory 104, which is non-volatile memory. The read program is deployed to memory 103, which is volatile memory. The boot program may be, for example, a Basic Input / Output System (BIOS), a boot loader, or an operating system (OS).

[0031] Non-volatile memory 104 is, for example, read-only memory (ROM), an embedded multimedia card (eMMC), etc. Non-volatile memory 104 may include battery-powered random access memory (RAM). Volatile memory 103 includes, for example, RAM. RAM may be, for example, dynamic RAM (DRAM). Volatile memory 103 is used as working memory by computing unit 101.

[0032] The computing unit 101 is connected to the control unit 107. The control unit 107 is a communication circuit that communicates with peripheral devices such as a PC via an I / F 108, which serves as a wired LAN interface. LAN is an abbreviation for Local Area Network. The I / F 108, used for wired LAN, typically employs an RJ-45 standard connector. Furthermore, the communication protocol used is Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol (TCP / IP), etc. The computing unit 101 and the control unit 107 are connected, for example, via a Peripheral Component Interconnect (PCIe) bus. The control unit 107 is connected to the I / F 108.

[0033] When the PC sends a print job to the image forming apparatus 10 via a wired LAN, the control unit 107 receives the print job and transmits it to the computing unit 101. The computing unit 101 then outputs instructions to the image processing unit 102 to drive the scanner module 130 and the printer module 140 based on the print job.

[0034] Image processing unit 102 is a second processor and can be integrated with computing unit 101. Image processing unit 102 performs image processing (e.g., noise removal, color conversion) on scanned data of the original received from scanner module 130 and generates image data. Image processing unit 102 stores the image data in non-volatile memory 106. Image processing unit 102 converts the input image data and sends the converted data to printer module 140. Here, the format of the image data is converted to a format readable by printer module 140. This enables the copying of the original. The image data acquired by scanner module 130 is bitmap data in red-green-blue (RGB) format. On the other hand, printer module 140 uses yellow, magenta, cyan, and black (YMCK) toners or inks to form an image on a recording medium. Therefore, image processing unit 102 needs to perform color conversion. Image processing unit 102 and scanner module 130 are connected via I / F 113. Image processing unit 102 and printer module 140 are connected via I / F 114.

[0035] The image processing unit 102 has volatile memory 105 that functions as working memory. Non-volatile memory 106 may include, for example, ROM and solid-state drive (SSD).

[0036] The image forming apparatus 10 can be connected to a printer server (not shown). This allows jobs created for the corresponding user to be executed collaboratively with the workflow system. The printer server is connected to the controller module 100 via a conversion unit 160. The conversion unit 160 is a communication conversion circuit that enables the image forming apparatus 10 to communicate with a server computer. The conversion unit 160 is connected to the image processing unit 102 via an I / F 112. The conversion unit 160 converts the format of image data received from the printer server into a format readable by the image processing unit 102. Both the printer server and the conversion unit 160 are optional devices, or the conversion unit 160 is optional. While the image forming apparatus 10 is operating, it is prohibited to connect the printer server and the conversion unit 160 to the controller module 100, and it is prohibited to remove the printer server and the conversion unit 160 from the controller module 100.

[0037] The computing unit 101 also has I / Fs 109-111 to which optional devices can be connected. I / F 109 is a USB 2.0 port to which a USB 2.0 device 115 is connected. The USB 2.0 device 115 operates in accordance with the technology standard commonly referred to as USB 2.0. The USB 2.0 device 115 is, for example, a memory device, a USB storage device, and an authentication IC card reader device. "USB 2.0" is an abbreviation for version 2.0 of the USB standard. In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the USB 2.0 device 115 is a memory device. I / F 110 is a USB 3.0 port to which a USB 3.0 device 116 is connected. The USB 3.0 device 116 operates in accordance with the technology standard commonly referred to as USB 3.0. The USB 3.0 device 116 is, for example, a memory device, a protocol conversion device for converting to Ethernet standards, etc. Protocol conversion refers to converting packets, data, or signals between different communication standards. Examples of different communication standards in protocol conversion include the USB standard and the LAN standard. "USB 3.0" is an abbreviation for USB standard version 3.0. In the first embodiment, USB 3.0 device 116 is assumed to be a memory device. The memory device can be connected and disconnected even while the image forming apparatus 10 is operating.

[0038] WLAN device 117 is connected to computing unit 101 via I / F 111. "WLAN" is an abbreviation for Wireless LAN. The technology standard used between WLAN device 117 and computing unit 101 may be, for example, USB or Secure Digital Input / Output (SDIO). When image forming apparatus 10 is operating, it is prohibited to connect WLAN device 117 to image forming apparatus 10, and it is prohibited to remove WLAN device 117 from image forming apparatus 10.

[0039] The controller module 100 has a timer 118 connected to the computing unit 101. The timer 118 can be a so-called real-time clock (RTC). The timer 118 can maintain date and time information. The timer 118 receives a constant power supply from a battery (not shown) (e.g., a lithium-ion battery). Therefore, the timer 118 can retain information even when the image forming apparatus 10 is not powered on. The RTC can be implemented internally within the computing unit 101.

[0040] In the first embodiment, it is assumed that the computing unit 101 accumulates power consumption (in watts) to obtain energy consumption (in watt-hours or watt-seconds) and presents the energy consumption to the user. Therefore, the computing unit 101 needs time information to identify the time periods during which power consumption was measured. For example, the computing unit 101 obtains time information from the timer 118 and stores the obtained time information in the volatile memory 103. The computing unit 101 uses the time information stored in the memory 103 to calculate the time between two given moments. Typically, even when the image forming apparatus 10 switches to a power-saving state, the volatile memory 103 continues to receive power, so the time information is not erased.

[0041] Operation unit 120 is connected to computing unit 101 via I / F 119. Operation unit 120 has a display (e.g., a liquid crystal display device) for showing the status of image forming apparatus 10 to a user, and input devices (e.g., panel-type touch sensors, hardware buttons) for receiving various commands from the user. Computing unit 101 displays the power consumed by image forming apparatus 10 on the display of operation unit 120. Video signals provided by computing unit 101 to operation unit 120 are transmitted, for example, via display port (DP) or high-definition multimedia interface (HDMI).

[0042] The scanner module 130 includes a control unit 131 and a drive unit 132. The control unit 131 controls the drive unit 131 to read documents placed on a document stage (not shown) and generate image data corresponding to the documents. The drive unit 132, for example, drives an automatic document feeder (ADF) to feed the documents into the scanner module 130. The drive unit 132 drives a light-emitting diode (LED) to illuminate the documents and drives an image sensor that converts the light from the documents into color information.

[0043] The printer module 140 includes a control unit 141 and a drive unit 142. The control unit 141 controls the drive unit 142 to form images and characters on the recording medium. Figure 5 As shown, the drive unit 142 includes, for example, a motor 501 that drives a rotating photosensitive drum, a charging power supply 502 that charges the photosensitive drum, and an exposure device 503 that illuminates the photosensitive drum with light to form an electrostatic latent image. The drive unit 142 also drives a developing power supply 504 that uses toner to develop the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image, a primary transfer power supply 505 that transfers the toner image from the photosensitive drum to an intermediate transfer medium, and a secondary transfer power supply 506 that transfers the toner image from the intermediate transfer medium to a recording medium.

[0044] The fixing module 150 has a fixing roller (or a cylindrical heating film) and a pressure roller, and heats and pressurizes the recording medium on which the toner image has been transferred. As a result, the toner image is fixed onto the recording medium.

[0045] Power supply 190 is a power supply device that converts alternating current (AC) supplied from an AC power source into direct current (DC). Power supply circuit 191 supplies the DC voltage received from power supply 190 to various external loads (optional devices) via I / F 109-112. Power supply circuit 191 is controlled by computing unit 101 and switches between supplying power to various optional devices and cutting off (stopping power supply). Power supply circuit 191 also supplies DC voltage to internal loads (e.g., controller module 100, scanner module 130, printer module 140, and fuser module 150).

[0046] 2. User Interface (UI)

[0047] Figure 2 An example of a UI 200 displayed on the operation unit 120 is shown. The UI 200 has icons 204 indicating the power status or operation status of the image forming apparatus 10, and a graph display area 210 displaying the energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10. The calculation unit 101 accumulates the energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 within a predetermined statistical period, which is a time unit. Tab 201 is used to specify objects for the statistical period. Specifically, tab 210 can be used to switch the position of the predetermined statistical period on the time axis or the length of the predetermined statistical period. Specifying objects can be achieved through a drop-down list displaying a list of time units. Figure 2 In the operation unit 120, the user specifies "day" as the statistical period in tab 201. Therefore, the calculation unit 101 calculates energy consumption based on the cumulative daily power consumption value, creates a chart showing the changes in energy consumption over a week, and displays this chart in the chart display area 210. Depending on the user's selection in tab 201, the calculation unit 101 can switch the energy consumption to a cumulative value for one day, one week, or one month, and display the result on the operation unit 120. In other words, the calculation unit 101 switches the energy consumption statistical period based on the selection in tab 201.

[0048] When the image forming apparatus 10 is installed in a customer's room, the calculation unit 101 can create power consumption value log data and store the log data in non-volatile memory 104. As a result, the calculation unit 101 can refer to the log data to accumulate the power consumption value (W) within a specified statistical period (cumulative period) and display the energy consumption (Wh) on the operation unit 120. For example, the date on which the image forming apparatus 10 is installed in the customer's room can be designated as the start date of the statistical period, and "today" can be designated as the end date of the statistical period. In this way, the statistical period can be selected by the user or can be predetermined.

[0049] The operation unit 120 can display the power consumption of each functional module constituting the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the power consumption of the controller module 100 and the fixing module 150 can be displayed in separate columns or as separate charts.

[0050] 3. Power Consumption Calculation Methods (Energy Consumption Calculation Methods)

[0051] Figure 3 This is a diagram illustrating the state transitions that occur between power states. Here, the image forming apparatus 10 has multiple power states. The job state (JOB) is the state in which printing or scanning is being performed. The standby state (STANDBY) is the state in which the image forming apparatus 10 is waiting for a job. The sleep state (SLEEP) is the state in which the image forming apparatus 10 operates with reduced power consumption. Note that the sleep state (SLEEP) can include multiple sleep states (e.g., SLEEP I, SLEEP II), each with different power consumption. SLEEP I and SLEEP II are sub-states of the sleep state. Note that the power consumption in SLEEP II is lower than that in SLEEP I.

[0052] Figure 4 This displays the power consumption value Pm (W) and energy consumption Wm (Wh) for each power state. The horizontal axis indicates time. The vertical axis indicates the power consumption value Pm. The area of ​​the shaded rectangle indicates the energy consumption Wm (Wh).

[0053] In sleep mode, the power consumption Pm and energy consumption Wm are very small. However, loads that operate in sleep mode (such as communication circuits) also operate in work mode and standby mode. When a copy job is input to the image forming apparatus 10, the image forming apparatus 10 transitions from sleep mode to work mode. The scanner module 130 performs original document reading. The power consumption Pm and energy consumption Wm during original document scanning are marked as RD. Loads that operate in standby mode (such as operation unit 120) also operate in work mode. The power consumption Pm and energy consumption Wm of such loads are indicated as STANDBY. When original document reading is complete, the fixing module 150 is awakened. At this time, the power consumption Pm and energy consumption Wm are indicated as W-UP. When the waking of the fixing module 150 is complete, image forming is performed on the recording medium. PRINT indicates the power consumption of the printer module 140, etc. PRINT (fixing) indicates the power consumption Pm and energy consumption Wm of the fixing module 150. When a copying job is completed, the image forming apparatus 10 transitions from the job state to the standby state. Furthermore, if the length (time) of the period during which no subsequent job is input in the standby state exceeds a threshold, the image forming apparatus 10 transitions from the standby state to the sleep state.

[0054] For each functional module, the computing unit 101 integrates (accumulates) the power consumption value Pm of that functional module along the time axis to obtain the energy consumption Wm of that functional module, and adds the results of each functional module to obtain the total energy consumption WA. In other words, Figure 4 The sum of the areas of the rectangles shown indicates the total energy consumption WA (Wh). Here, the unit of energy consumption is assumed to be watt-second (Ws).

[0055] The calculation unit 101 controls the supply and stop of power to each functional module according to the operating state (power state) of the image forming apparatus 10. Therefore, energy consumption varies over time. The calculation unit 101 can calculate the total energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 by integrating (accumulating) the energy consumption of each functional module along the time axis.

[0056] Figure 5 Examples of multiple functional modules are shown. Wm1 indicates the power consumption of scanner module 130. Wm2 indicates the power consumption of controller module 100. Wm4 indicates the power consumption of fixing module 150. Wm5 indicates the power consumption of printer module 140. Printer module 140 includes a motor 501 for driving the photosensitive drum and transport rollers, a charging power supply 502, an exposure device 503, a developing power supply 504, a primary transfer power supply 505, and a secondary transfer power supply 506.

[0057] Wm3 is the power consumption of optional devices 500 connected to controller module 100. Optional devices 500 include, for example, USB 2.0 device 115, USB 3.0 device 116, WLAN device 117, and conversion unit 160.

[0058] The calculation unit 101 calculates the energy consumption WA by adding Wm1 to Wm5. The calculation unit 101 can calculate the energy consumption WA(Ws) by accumulating the total value of the power consumption Pm1 to Pm5 along the time axis. In other words, the calculation unit 101 can calculate the cumulative energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 by accumulating the energy consumption WA calculated based on the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 over a predetermined period of time (e.g., 1 day, 1 week, 1 month).

[0059] 4. Functions of the computing unit

[0060] Figure 6 The function of the computing unit 101 is shown. The computing unit 101 is connected to volatile memory 103, non-volatile memory 104, timer 118, operation unit 120, and communication circuit 670. The computing unit 101 communicates with optional device 500 via communication circuit 670 and I / F 109-112. Battery 680 supplies power to memory 104.

[0061] The option control unit 600 primarily monitors the connection status of optional devices 500 connected via communication circuit 670. For example, the option control unit 600 performs an initialization process called enumeration to obtain device information, such as that of devices connected to I / Fs 109-112, and creates a device list. In other words, the option control unit 600 identifies the optional devices 500. The device information may include identification information (device ID) used to identify the optional device 500, and a power consumption value specific to the optional device 500. The command requesting the device ID and the command requesting the power consumption value may be different. The option control unit 600 detects the connection and removal of USB devices relative to I / Fs 109 and 110 and updates the device list accordingly. When the image forming apparatus 10 is started, the computing unit 101 checks whether the WLAN device 117 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10, and whether the conversion unit 160 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10.

[0062] Monitoring unit 601 monitors the actual power supply status of optional device 500. In other words, monitoring unit 601 monitors the power supply status of external loads connected to I / F 109-112. Even if optional device 500 is connected to image forming apparatus 10, there may be cases where no power is supplied to optional device 500. Therefore, in order to accurately obtain the energy consumption of optional device 500, it is necessary to monitor the power supply status of optional device 500. The power supply status of optional device 500 often changes in conjunction with the power status of image forming apparatus 10. Therefore, by monitoring the power status of image forming apparatus 10, monitoring unit 601 can obtain the corresponding power supply status of optional device 500.

[0063] Individual acquisition unit 610 acquires the power consumption value Pm or energy consumption Wm of the corresponding functional module. Wm1 acquisition unit 611 acquires the power consumption of scanner module 130. For example, Wm1 acquisition unit 611 acquires a fixed value stored in non-volatile memory 104 indicating the power consumption of scanner module 130. Wm1 acquisition unit 611 can acquire the power consumption value or energy consumption calculated by control unit 131 in scanner module 130 via communication circuit 670.

[0064] Wm2 acquisition unit 612 acquires the power consumption or energy consumption of controller module 100.

[0065] Figure 7 A first table 641 shows the power consumption value Pm of the controller module 100 in each power state. The first table 641 can be stored in non-volatile memory 104. Figure 7As shown, the power consumption value Pm of the controller module 100 varies greatly depending on the combination of the power state and operation state of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, when the power state is JOB and the operation state is print + scan, the power consumption value is 35 (W). When the power state is JOB and the operation state is print or scan, the power consumption value is 30 (W). When the power state is STANDBY and the operation state is job accept, the power consumption value is 20 (W). When the power state is SLEEP and the operation state is the first power saving state, the power consumption value is 8 (W). When the power state is SLEEP and the operation state is the second power saving state, the power consumption value is 0.5 (W). When the power state is OFF and the operation state is power off, the power consumption value is 0 (W).

[0066] The first power-saving state is when the backlight of the operation unit 120 is turned off and no power is supplied to the conversion unit 160. In other words, in the first power-saving state, various devices actively reduce power consumption by performing clock gating or power gating.

[0067] The second power-saving state supplies power only to the volatile memory 103, control unit 107, timer 118, interrupt control unit, touch sensor located in operation unit 120, and WLAN device 117. The interrupt control unit is located in computing unit 101. In the second power-saving state, the volatile memory 103 is in a so-called self-refresh state. Control unit 107 uses a function called proxy response to filter out unwanted packets received from the outside. The first power-saving state and the second power-saving state can be selected by the user. For example, if power saving is prioritized, the second power-saving state is selected. If the time required to recover from sleep state to standby state is prioritized, the first power-saving state is selected.

[0068] Wm2 acquisition unit 612 reads the power consumption value corresponding to the combination of power state and operation state from the first table 641.

[0069] Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires the power consumption value Pm or energy consumption Wm of the optional device 500 connected to controller module 100.

[0070] Figure 8 A second table 642 is shown, which stores the power consumption values ​​of the optional device 500. The second table 642 is also stored in non-volatile memory 104. Figure 8 As shown, the power consumption value of optional device 500 also varies according to the power state.

[0071] The power consumption of USB 2.0 device 115 varies depending on the power-on state. When the power state is JOB, STANDBY, or SLEEP I, the power-on state is set to ON. As a result, the maximum power consumption of USB 2.0 device 115 is 7.5 W. This maximum power is the nominal maximum power specified in the USB 2.0 standard. When the power state is SLEEP II, the power-on state is set to OFF. Therefore, the power consumption of USB 2.0 device 115 is 0 W.

[0072] The power consumption of USB 3.0 device 116 also varies depending on the power-on state. When the power state is JOB, STANDBY, or SLEEP I, the power-on state is set to ON. As a result, the maximum power consumption of USB 3.0 device 116 is 10 (W). This maximum power is the nominal maximum power specified in the USB 3.0 standard. When the power state is SLEEP II, the power-on state is set to OFF. Therefore, the power consumption of USB 3.0 device 116 is 0 (W).

[0073] The power consumption of WLAN device 117 varies depending on the power state. Regardless of the power state, WLAN device 117 remains ON. When the power state is JOB, STANDBY, or SLEEP I, the power consumption of WLAN device 117 is 2.5 (W). When the power state is SLEEP II, the power consumption of WLAN device 117 is 0.25 (W).

[0074] The power consumption of the conversion unit 160 varies according to the power state. When the power state is JOB, the power-on state is set to ON. The power consumption of the conversion unit 160 is 30 (W) when the power state is JOB. When the power state is STANDBY, the power consumption of the conversion unit 160 is 10 (W). When the power state is SLEEP I or SLEEP II, the power-on state is set to OFF. In this case, the power consumption is 0 (W).

[0075] If the optional device 500 is an unknown device, the nominal maximum power value defined in the technical standard is read from the second table 642. On the other hand, if the optional device 500 is a known device, the power consumption value can be obtained from the third table 643.

[0076] Figure 9An example of Table 643 is shown. Table 643 maintains the device ID, name, I / F standard, and power consumption value in a correlated manner. IC card reader AA, with device ID 0x101, conforms to the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 1.5 (W). IC card reader BB, with device ID 0x102, conforms to the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 2.0 (W). Numeric keypad, with device ID 0x103, conforms to the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 0.8 (W). Keyboard, with device ID 0x104, conforms to the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 1.0 (W). USB storage device AAA, with device ID 0x105, conforms to the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 2.5 (W). USB storage device BBB, with device ID 0x106, conforms to the USB 3.0 standard and has a power consumption value of 4.5 (W). USB storage device CCC with device ID 0x107 complies with the USB 3.0 standard and has a power consumption of 10 (W). USB-LAN converter XXX with device ID 0x108 complies with the USB 2.0 standard and has a power consumption of 2.5 (W). USB-LAN converter YYY with device ID 0x109 complies with the USB 3.0 standard and has a power consumption of 5 (W). USB-LAN converter ZZZ with device ID 0x110 complies with the USB 3.0 standard and has a power consumption of 7.5 (W).

[0077] Thus, the power consumption of the optional device 500 varies according to its power state. This is because the power-on state of the optional device 500 switches according to its power state. Furthermore, each optional device 500 has its own device-specific power consumption value.

[0078] Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to the second table 642 or the third table 643 to acquire the power consumption value corresponding to the power state (power-on state) for the optional device 500.

[0079] The Wm4 acquisition unit 614 acquires the power consumption value of the fixing module 150. The Wm5 acquisition unit acquires the power consumption value of the printer module 140. The Wm4 acquisition unit 614 reads the power consumption value of the fixing module 150, which is a fixed value stored in the non-volatile memory 104. The Wm5 acquisition unit 615 reads the power consumption value of the printer module 140, which is a fixed value stored in the non-volatile memory 104. The Wm4 acquisition unit 614 can acquire the power consumption value calculated by the control unit installed in the fixing module 150 as the power consumption value of the fixing module 150. The Wm5 acquisition unit can acquire the power consumption value calculated by the control unit 141 installed in the printer module 140.

[0080] For each functional module, the accumulation unit 620 adds up the power consumption values ​​or energy consumption acquired by the individual acquisition unit 610 to calculate the total energy consumption WA. Furthermore, the accumulation unit 620 calculates the cumulative energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 by accumulating the energy consumption WA along a time axis for a specific period. The display control unit 630 creates a UI 200 for displaying the cumulative energy consumption and displays the UI 200 on the display of the operation unit 120.

[0081] The registration unit 602 stores the identification information obtained from the optional device 500 in the memory 104 in association with the corresponding device-specific power consumption value. Figure 9 A third table 643 stored in memory 104 is shown. The third table 643 maintains, in association, the device ID, the name or category information of the optional device, the I / F standard, and the power consumption value. When the option control unit 600 detects an unknown device, the registration unit 602, via the option control unit 600, attempts to obtain the identification information and power consumption value from the unknown device. If the identification information and power consumption value are successfully obtained, the registration unit 602 writes the identification information and power consumption value into the third table 643.

[0082] Figure 10 This diagram illustrates a method for calculating cumulative energy consumption using the energy consumption Wm2 of the summing controller module 100 and the energy consumption Wm3 of the optional device 500. The vertical axis indicates the power consumption value. The horizontal axis indicates time. Shaded rectangles indicate energy consumption. The power state during the time period from time t0 to time t2 is STANDBY. The power state during the time period from time t2 to time t3 is JOB. The power state during the time period from time t3 to time t4 is STANDBY. The power state during the time period from time t4 to time t5 is SLEEP I. The power state during the time period from time t5 to time t6 is SLEEP II. The power state during the time period from time t6 to time t8 is STANDBY.

[0083] The calculation unit 101 calculates energy consumption starting from time t0. The starting point could be, for example, the time when the user touches tab 201 or the time when the image forming apparatus 10 is installed in the user's room. Here, it is assumed that the optional devices 500 connected to the image forming apparatus 10 are a printer server and a conversion unit 160. The controller module 100 supplies power to the conversion unit 160 according to the power status of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0084] At time t0, the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 is STANDBY. The Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to the first table 641 in the non-volatile memory 104. Since the power state is STANDBY, it refers to Key# 0x3 and acquires 20 (W) as the power consumption value of the controller module 100. The computing unit 101 can refer to the first table 641 deployed in the volatile memory 103. The option control unit 600 monitors the connection and removal of the conversion unit 160 from the I / F 112. For example, the option control unit 600 can detect the connection and removal of the conversion unit 160 through initialization processing based on the PCIe bus standard used between the conversion unit 160 and the computing unit 101. The computing unit 101 can detect the connection and removal of the conversion unit 160 through the general purpose input / output (GPIO) provided in the conversion unit 160. When the connection of the conversion unit 160 is detected, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to the second table 642 in the non-volatile memory 104. Since the power state is STANDBY, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x18 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value. The accumulation unit 620 adds the power consumption value 20 (W) of the controller module 100 and the power consumption value 10 (W) of the conversion unit 160 to obtain the cumulative value over the time period from time t0 to time t1. The cumulative energy consumption Wt01 from time t0 to time t1 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0085] Wt01 = (20+10) × (t1–t0) ...Equation 1

[0086] The calculation unit 101 obtains the actual value of time t from the timer 118. The calculation unit 101 can count the elapsed time through a program running on the calculation unit 101.

[0087] At time t1, the user connects the USB 3.0 device 116 to the image forming apparatus 10. The USB 3.0 device 116 is a USB memory that operates according to the USB 3.0 standard. The option control unit 600 detects that the USB 3.0 device 116 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the connection can be detected based on the initialization process of the USB bus standard performed between the computing unit 101 and the USB 3.0 device 116. The option control unit 600 obtains the device ID from the USB 3.0 device 116. If the USB 3.0 device 116 is a USB storage device BBB, 0x106 is obtained as the device ID. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to the second table 642 and the third table 643 in the non-volatile memory 104. Since the power state is STANDBY, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x13 in the second table 642 and obtains the nominal maximum power value of 10 (W). In addition, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires 4.5 (W), which is the power consumption value associated with 0x106 in the third table 643. Since the nominal maximum power value is a value applied to an unknown USB device, 4.5 (W) is used here.

[0088] The accumulation unit 620 adds the power consumption value of 4.5 (W) to the power consumption value of 30 (W) acquired during the time period from time t0 to time t1 to calculate the cumulative power consumption value Wt12 from time t1 to time t2.

[0089] Wt12 = (30+4.5) × (t2–t1) ...Equation 2

[0090] At time t2, the user instructs the image forming apparatus 10 to perform a job. For example, the user instructs the execution of a print job via a wired LAN. As a result, the calculation unit 101 switches the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 from STANDBY to JOB. When the change in the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 is detected, the Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to Key# 0x2 in the first table 641. As a result, 30W is acquired as the power consumption value of the controller module 100. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x17 in the second table 642 and acquires 30 (W) as the power consumption value of the conversion unit 160. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x13 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the USB 3.0 device 116 when it is powered on. In addition, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires 4.5 (W), which is the power consumption value associated with 0x106 in the third table 643. Since the nominal maximum power value is applied to an unknown USB device, 4.5 (W) is used here.

[0091] Accumulation unit 620 adds these power consumption values ​​to calculate the cumulative value over the time period from time t2 to time t3. The cumulative power consumption value Wt23 over the time period from time t2 to t3 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0092] Wt23 = (30+30+4.5) × (t3–t2) ...Equation 3

[0093] When the operation ends at time t3, the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 changes from JOB to STANDBY. When the monitoring unit 601 detects the change in the power state of the image forming apparatus 10, the Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to Key# 0x3 in the first table 641 and acquires 20 (W) as the power consumption value of the controller module 100. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x18 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the conversion unit 160. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x13 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the USB 3.0 device 116 when it is powered on. In addition, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires 4.5 (W), which is the power consumption value associated with 0x106 in the third table 643. Since the nominal maximum power value is a value applied to an unknown USB device, 4.5 (W) is used here. Accumulation unit 620 adds these power consumption values ​​to calculate the cumulative value over the period from time t3 to time t4. In other words, the cumulative power consumption value Wt34 over the period from time t3 to time t4 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0094] Wt34 = (20+10+4.5) × (t4–t3) ...Equation 4

[0095] Time t4 marks the elapsed time since time t3, when the power state transitioned from JOB to STANDBY. Timer 118 notifies the calculation unit 101 that the specified time has elapsed. In other words, the calculation unit 101 uses timer 118 to measure the specified time. At time t4, the calculation unit 101 transitions the power state from STANDBY to SLEEP (first power-saving state). At this time, the calculation unit 101 controls the power supply circuit 191 to stop supplying power to the conversion unit 160. This reduces power consumption. On the other hand, the power supply circuit 191 continues to supply power to the USB 3.0 device 116. In response to the change in the power state of the image forming apparatus 10, the Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to Key# 0x4 in the first table 641 and acquires 8 (W) as the power consumption value of the controller module 100. Furthermore, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x19 in the second table 642 and acquires 0 (W) as the power consumption value of the conversion unit 160. Furthermore, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x13 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the USB 3.0 device 116 when it is powered on. Additionally, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires 4.5 (W), which is the power consumption value associated with 0x106 in the third table 643. Since the nominal maximum power value is applied to an unknown USB device, 4.5 (W) is used here. The accumulation unit 620 adds these power consumption values ​​and continues to accumulate until time t5. In other words, the accumulated power consumption value Wt45 from time t4 to t5 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0096] Wt45 = (8+0+4.5) × (t5–t4) ...Equation 5

[0097] Time t5 is a time interval elapsed after time t4. When timer 118 notifies computing unit 101 that the specified time has elapsed, computing unit 101 changes the power state of image forming apparatus 10 from a first power-saving state to a second power-saving state. Computing unit 101 controls power circuit 191 to stop power supply to USB 3.0 device 116. This further reduces power consumption. When monitoring unit 601 detects a change in the power state of image forming apparatus 10, Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to Key# 0x5 in first table 641 and acquires 0.5 (W) as the power consumption value of controller module 100. Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x19 in second table 642 and acquires 0 (W) as the power consumption value of conversion unit 160. Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x14 in second table 642 and acquires 0 (W) as the power consumption value of USB 3.0 device 116. Accumulation unit 620 adds these power consumption values ​​to calculate the cumulative value over the period from time t5 to time t6. In other words, the cumulative power consumption value Wt56 over the period from time t5 to time t6 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0098] Wt56 = (0.5+0+0) × (t6–t5) ...Equation 6

[0099] At time t6, the user inputs a recovery trigger for the image forming apparatus 10. An example of a recovery trigger is when the user touches the touch sensor of the operation unit 120. As a result, the calculation unit 101 changes the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 from SLEEP II to STANDBY. The calculation unit 101 controls the power supply circuit 191 to restart power supply to the conversion unit 160 and the USB 3.0 device 116. When the monitoring unit 601 detects a change in the power state of the image forming apparatus 10, the Wm2 acquisition unit 612 refers to Key# 0x3 in the first table 641 and acquires 20 (W) as the power consumption value of the controller module 100. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 refers to Key# 0x18 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the conversion unit 160. The Wm3 acquisition unit 613 also refers to Key# 0x13 in the second table 642 and acquires 10 (W) as the power consumption value of the USB 3.0 device 116 when it is in the ON state. Furthermore, the Wm3 acquisition unit 613 acquires 4.5 (W), which is the power consumption value associated with 0x106 in the third table 643. Since the nominal maximum power value is applied to an unknown USB device, 4.5 (W) is used here. The accumulation unit 620 adds these power consumption values ​​to calculate the cumulative value over the period from time t6 to time t7. In other words, the cumulative power consumption value Wt67 over the period from time t6 to t7 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0100] Wt67 = (20+10+4.5) × (t7–t6) ...Equation 7

[0101] At time t7, the user removes the USB storage device 116 (USB 3.0 device 116) from I / F 110. Option control unit 600 detects that USB 3.0 device 116 has been removed from I / F 110. For example, the user inputs a command to remove USB storage device BBB from operation unit 120. When the communication signal from USB 3.0 device 116 disappears, calculation unit 101 detects the removal of USB storage device BBB. In response to the removal of USB 3.0 device 116, Wm3 acquisition unit 613 only notifies accumulation unit 620 of the power consumption value of conversion unit 160. In other words, the cumulative power consumption value Wt78 from time t7 to time t8 can be calculated using the following formula.

[0102] Wt78 = (20+10) × (t8–t7) ...Equation 8

[0103] 4. Flowchart

[0104] Figures 11-13 The control method executed by the computing unit 101 according to the control program is shown. Here, when the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 changes, the following processing is performed.

[0105] In step S1101, the calculation unit 101 determines whether the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 has returned from the second power-saving state to the first power-saving state or the standby state. If the second power-saving state continues, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1101 to step S1121 and obtains the current time from the timer 118. Then, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1121 to step S1105. If the power state has returned from the second power-saving state to another state, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1101 to step S1102.

[0106] In step S1102, the calculation unit 101 acquires the current time from the timer 118. In step S1103, the calculation unit 101 calculates the energy consumption between the previously acquired time and the current time. These times are the moments when state transitions occur. In other words, a specific power state is maintained during the period between the previously acquired time and the current time.

[0107] In step S1104, the calculation unit 101 accumulates the calculated energy consumption. The result is added to the accumulated energy consumption. In the second power-saving state, the calculation unit 101 does not receive power and therefore cannot perform energy consumption calculation. Therefore, after the power state has recovered from the second power-saving state to another state, the energy consumption during the period when the device was in the second power-saving state is calculated. Time information indicating the current moment can be stored in volatile memory 103 or non-volatile memory 104. In the first embodiment, the time information is stored in volatile memory 103.

[0108] In step S1105, the calculation unit 101 retrieves the power consumption value of the controller module 100 that matches the current power state of the image forming apparatus 10 from the non-volatile memory 104. For example, the calculation unit 101 refers to the first table 641 in the non-volatile memory 104 and retrieves the power consumption value corresponding to the current power state. For example, it retrieves the power consumption value corresponding to a combination of power state and operating state.

[0109] In step S1106, the calculation unit 101 determines whether the optional device 500 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the option control unit 600. If the optional device 500 is connected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1106 to step S1107.

[0110] In step S1107, the computing unit 101 obtains device information of the optional device 500. For example, the computing unit 101 queries the USB 2.0 device 115 connected to I / F 109 via the option control unit 600 and obtains the device ID. The computing unit 101 queries the USB 3.0 device 116 connected to I / F 110 via the option control unit 600 and obtains the device ID. Afterwards, the computing unit 101 proceeds from step S1107 to step S1151.

[0111] In step S1151, the calculation unit 101 determines whether the optional device 500 is a known device based on the device ID of the optional device 500. For example, the calculation unit 101 determines whether the device ID of the optional device 500 is registered in the third table 643. If the device ID is registered in the third table 643, the calculation unit 101 determines that the corresponding optional device 500 is a known device, and the process proceeds from step S1151 to step S1152. In step S1152, the calculation unit 101 refers to the third table 643 and obtains the power consumption value associated with the device ID of the optional device 500. Afterwards, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1152 to step S1108.

[0112] If it is determined in step S1151 that the optional device 500 is an unknown device, then the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1151 to step S1161.

[0113] In step S1161, the computing unit 101 attempts to obtain the power consumption value of the unknown optional device 500. For example, the computing unit 101 queries the unknown optional device 500 about the power consumption value through the option control unit 600. Alternatively, it accesses an external server computer via I / F 108 to attempt to obtain power information indicating the power consumption value corresponding to the device ID of the unknown optional device 500.

[0114] In step S1162, the calculation unit 101 determines whether the power consumption value was successfully acquired. If the acquisition is successful, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1162 to step S1163. In step S1163, the registration unit 602 registers the device ID and the power consumption value in a third table 643 in a mutually associated manner. Afterwards, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1163 to step S1152 and retrieves the power consumption value corresponding to the device ID from the third table 643.

[0115] If the acquisition of the power consumption value in step S1162 fails, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1162 to step S1171. In step S1171, the calculation unit 101 issues a notification via the operation unit 120. Here, the notification may include a message or image indicating that the power consumption value of the connected optional device 500 is unknown. The notification may include a message or image indicating that the displayed power consumption value or energy consumption may contain errors. The notification may include a message prompting the user to update the firmware of the optional device 500 or the image forming apparatus 10. This is because updating the firmware enables the optional device 500 to respond with its power consumption value. Alternatively, this is because the third table 643 maintained in the image forming apparatus 10 can be updated, and the power information of the optional device 500 can be obtained from the third table 643.

[0116] In step S1172, the calculation unit 101 obtains the power consumption value associated with the unknown optional device 500 from the second table 642. If the optional device 500 is an unknown USB 2.0 device 115, a maximum power value of 7.5 (W) is obtained. If the optional device 500 is an unknown USB 3.0 device 116, a maximum power value of 10 (W) is obtained. Then, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1172 to step S1108.

[0117] In this way, the computing unit 101 refers to the second table 642 in the non-volatile memory 104 and obtains the power consumption value corresponding to the current power state.

[0118] If it is determined in step S1106 that the optional device 500 is not connected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1106 to step S1108. In step S1108, the calculation unit 101 determines, via the option control unit 600, whether the connection status of the optional device 500 has changed. Examples of a change in connection status include the optional device 500 being connected to the image forming apparatus 10, and the optional device 500 being removed from the image forming apparatus 10. If the connection status of the optional device 500 has not changed, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1108 to step S1131. In step S1131, the calculation unit 101 determines whether a trigger has been detected. At this time, the trigger can be any trigger that causes a change in power status. If no trigger is detected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1131 to step S1108. If a trigger is detected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1131 to step S1111.

[0119] If a change in connection status is detected in step S1108, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1108 to step S1109. In step S1109, the calculation unit 101 determines, via the option control unit 600, whether a connection to the optional device 500 is detected. If the removal of the optional device 500 is detected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1109 to step S1111. If a connection to the optional device 500 is detected, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1109 to step S1110.

[0120] In step S1110, the calculation unit 101 obtains the device information of the optional device 500 via the option control unit 600. The option control unit 600 can communicate with the optional device 500 to obtain device ID, device category information, etc.

[0121] In step S1111, the calculation unit 101 obtains the current time from the timer 118. This time is the moment when the connection state of the optional device 500 changes or when a trigger is detected.

[0122] In step S1112, the calculation unit 101 retrieves the power consumption value corresponding to the current power state from the memory 104 and calculates the energy consumption during the period from the previous time to the current time. The calculation unit 101 uses the current power state as a reference to the first table 641 and the second table 642, and retrieves the power consumption value corresponding to the current power state. For example, the calculation unit 101 enumerates the optional devices 500 connected to the image forming apparatus 10 and retrieves the power consumption value for each enumerated optional device 500. As a result, energy consumption that takes into account the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 and the power-on state of the optional devices 500 can be obtained. In other words, even when an optional device 500 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10, the power-on state of the optional device 500 changes according to the power state. In other words, the power consumption value of the optional device 500 changes according to the power state. Because the power consumption value of the optional device 500 corresponding to the power state is taken into account, the energy consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 can be calculated more accurately.

[0123] In step S1113, the calculation unit 101 adds the energy consumption from the previous time period to the current time period to the accumulated energy consumption. Since the accumulated energy consumption needs to be calculated, the energy consumption within a specific time period is added to the accumulated energy consumption up to that point. The accumulated energy consumption is stored in non-volatile memory 104. The accumulated energy consumption can also be stored in volatile memory 103. In this case, the accumulated energy consumption can be written from memory 103 to memory 104 when the power state transitions to a second power-saving state and when the power state transitions to power-off. In other words, the writing of accumulated energy consumption to memory 104 can be performed as part of a suspend process or a shutdown process.

[0124] In step S1114, the calculation unit 101 transitions to the power state corresponding to the trigger.

[0125] According to the first embodiment, the energy consumption WA of the image forming apparatus 10 is calculated based on the energy consumption of the controller module 100 and the energy consumption of the optional device 500. As a result, the energy consumption WA of the entire image forming apparatus 10 can be calculated with high accuracy. Specifically, even when the optional device 500 is connected to the image forming apparatus 10, if no power is supplied to the optional device 500, the energy consumption of that optional device 500 is not added to the energy consumption WA. In other words, the energy consumption corresponding to the power-on state of the optional device 500 is added to the energy consumption WA. Furthermore, even if the connection state of the optional device 500 changes dynamically, the energy consumption is calculated with high accuracy.

[0126] 5. Summary of the First Embodiment

[0127] According to the first embodiment, the controller module 100, etc., is an example of an internal load disposed within the image forming apparatus 10. I / F 109 and 110 are examples of connection units to which external loads (e.g., optional device 500) are connected. Power supply 190 and power supply circuit 191 are examples of power supplies that supply power to the internal and external loads. The calculation unit 101 calculates the power consumption value of the internal load and also obtains the device-specific power consumption value of the external load connected to I / F 109 and 110. The calculation unit 101 performs calculations including the addition of the power consumption value of the internal load and the device-specific power consumption value of the external load. In this way, according to the first embodiment, the device-specific power consumption value of the external load is taken into account, thereby improving the calculation accuracy of the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0128] like Figure 9 As shown, memory 104 and the third table 643 are examples of storage units that store power consumption values ​​of external loads. The option control unit 600 functions as an identification unit that identifies external loads connected to I / F 109 and 110. The calculation unit 101 can obtain the device-specific power consumption value corresponding to the external load identified by the option control unit 600 from the third table 643. In this way, by identifying the external loads actually connected to the image forming apparatus 10, it becomes possible to accurately obtain the device-specific power consumption values ​​of the external loads.

[0129] like Figure 9 As shown, the third table 643 can store the power consumption value of the external load in association with the identification information of the external load (e.g., device ID). The option control unit 600 can obtain the identification information of the external load by communicating with the external load via I / F 109, 110, etc. The option control unit 600 can obtain the power consumption value associated with the obtained identification information from the third table 643. In this way, the power consumption value can be identified based on the identification information.

[0130] Option control unit 600 can recognize that the external load connected to I / F 109 or 110 is an unknown device. (See reference...) Figure 8 The calculation unit 101 can obtain the power consumption value for the unknown device from the second table 642. The power consumption value for the unknown device can be the nominal maximum power value defined for I / F 109 or 110. Therefore, even if an unknown device is connected, the power consumption of the image forming apparatus 10 can be obtained.

[0131] The operation unit 120 can serve to notify the user that an unknown device with an unknown power consumption value has been connected to the notification unit of I / F 109 or 110. This allows the user to understand that the power consumption displayed on the operation unit 120 may include errors.

[0132] The option control unit 600 can communicate with an external load via I / F 109 or 110 to obtain power information related to the device-specific power consumption value of that external load and identification information for identifying the external load. The obtained power consumption value and the obtained identification information can be stored in a third table 643 in a mutually correlated manner. In this way, the third table 643 can be updated. If the command used to request the identification information and the command used to request the power consumption information are different, the option control unit 600 needs to send two commands to the external load. However, after the obtained power consumption value and the obtained identification information are stored in the third table 643 in a mutually correlated manner, the option control unit 600 only needs to obtain the identification information from the external load.

[0133] The computing unit 101 can communicate with an external load via I / F 109 or 110 to obtain power information related to the device-specific power consumption value of the external load. The computing unit 101 can extract or derive the device-specific power consumption value of the external load based on the power information. The computing unit 101 can calculate energy consumption by accumulating the total power consumption value of the external load and the internal load along a time axis.

[0134] like Figures 11-13 As shown, the computing unit 101 can accumulate energy consumption for each period of time during which a specific power state persists. This makes it easier to accumulate energy consumption.

[0135] like Figure 2 As shown, the calculation unit 101 can accumulate energy consumption for each predetermined statistical period. Users may want to know the energy consumption within each predetermined statistical period. Therefore, the accumulation period and the statistical period can be different.

[0136] As shown in Table 642, the power supply circuit 191 can switch the power supply state to the external load according to the state transitions that occur between power states. This is because the power state is related to the power-on state of the optional device 500.

[0137] like Figure 8 As shown, the second table 642 can store the power consumption value of the external load for each of the multiple power states of the image forming apparatus 10. The calculation unit 101 can obtain the power consumption value of the external load corresponding to the power state of the image forming apparatus 10 from the second table 642.

[0138] like Figure 7 and Figure 8As shown, the power states may include JOB, STANDBY, SLEEP I, and SLEEP II. JOB is the power state in which the image forming apparatus 10 is performing a job. STANDBY is the power state in which the image forming apparatus 10 is waiting for job input. SLEEP I and II are power states in which the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state. The power consumption value under SLEEP II is lower than the power consumption value under SLEEP I. The power consumption value under SLEEP I is lower than the power consumption value under STANDBY. The power consumption value under STANDBY is lower than the power consumption value under JOB.

[0139] like Figure 8 As shown, the power consumption of the external load under SLEEP II is lower than that under SLEEP I.

[0140] like Figure 7 As shown, a JOB may include a first sub-state of performing image formation, a second sub-state of performing object reading, and a third sub-state of performing both object reading and image formation of the image read from the object. The power consumption values ​​in the first sub-state, the second sub-state, and the third sub-state may be different from each other. Alternatively, as... Figure 7 As shown in the diagram, the power consumption values ​​in the first and second sub-states can be equal. In this way, the power consumption values ​​in the first and third sub-states can be different. The power consumption values ​​in the second and third sub-states can also be different.

[0141] I / F 109 and 110 may have connectors that conform to predetermined technical standards. Optional device 500 is an example of a peripheral device that conforms to predetermined technical standards. The technical standard may, for example, be the Universal Serial Bus standard.

[0142] like Figure 8 As shown, the second table 642 can store power consumption values ​​for external loads conforming to a first version of a technical standard (e.g., USB 2.0) and power consumption values ​​for external loads conforming to a second version of a technical standard (e.g., USB 3.0). When an external load is connected to the first connector, the computing unit 101 can obtain the power consumption value of the external load conforming to the first version of the technical standard from the second table 642. When an external load is connected to the second connector, the computing unit 101 can obtain the power consumption value of the external load conforming to the second version of the technical standard from the second table 642. In this way, the power consumption value can vary according to the connector and interface standards. Therefore, by calculating the power consumption value according to the version of the technical standard, energy consumption can be calculated with even higher precision.

[0143] like Figure 2As shown, when displaying the cumulative value of the total power consumption of the internal load and the external load, the display device of the operation unit 120 can display the cumulative value for each predetermined statistical period. This makes it easier for the user to understand the overall power consumption of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0144] Tab 201 serves as a toggle unit for switching the position of a predetermined statistical period along the time axis or the length of a predetermined statistical period. This allows users to easily switch between statistical periods.

[0145] I / F 108 and control unit 107 are examples of communication units that communicate with a network storage device having a third table 643 storing power consumption values ​​of external loads. Computation unit 101 can obtain device-specific power consumption values ​​corresponding to the external loads identified by option control unit 600 from the third table 643 stored in the network storage device.

[0146] Second Embodiment

[0147] In a first embodiment, the power consumption value when the power-on state is ON is obtained based on a table stored in the image forming apparatus 10, a table stored in the server computer, or device information received from the optional device 500. The device information may include a device ID and power information. If the device information includes a power consumption value, the power consumption value is directly extracted from the device information. If the device information includes information associated with the power consumption value or information encoding the power consumption value, the calculation unit 101 derives the power consumption value from such information. On the other hand, in a second embodiment, a method for measuring the power consumption value of the optional device 500 is proposed.

[0148] Figure 14 This is a block diagram of the image forming apparatus 10. Components identical to those described in the first embodiment are indicated by the same reference numerals, and descriptions of such components will be omitted. A detection circuit 1401 for detecting the power consumption value of the USB 2.0 device 115 is connected to I / F 109. The calculation unit 101 causes the detection circuit 1401 to detect the power consumption value. The calculation unit 101 can acquire the instantaneous power consumption value detected by the detection circuit 1401. The calculation unit 101 can wait until the instantaneous power consumption value detected by the detection circuit 1401 becomes stable, and then determine the power consumption value (stable value). The calculation unit 101 can sample the power consumption value within a predetermined measurement period to obtain multiple sample values, and perform statistical processing (e.g., averaging) on ​​the sample values ​​to determine the power consumption value (statistical value). The registration unit 602 registers the determined power consumption value in association with the device ID in a third table 643. Alternatively, as Figure 15 As shown, the registration unit 602 can rewrite the maximum power value registered in the second table 642 using the determined power consumption value (detection value).

[0149] Figure 16 This is a flowchart illustrating the control method according to the second embodiment. If it is detected in step S1106 that the optional device 500 is connected to the I / F, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1106 to step S1601.

[0150] In step S1601, the calculation unit 101 uses the detection circuit 1401 or the detection circuit 1402 to detect the power consumption value of the optional device 500.

[0151] In step S1602, the calculation unit 101 registers the detected power consumption value in the second table 642. Note that the detected power consumption value can be registered in the third table 643 in association with the device ID obtained by the option control unit 600, and then the power consumption value can also be registered in the second table 642. Alternatively, the power consumption value can be any one of an instantaneous value, a stable value, and a statistical value.

[0152] In step S1603, the calculation unit 101 obtains the energy consumption of the optional device 500 corresponding to the current power state. As described above, the calculation unit 101 identifies the power-on state of the optional device 500 corresponding to the current power state and obtains the power consumption value corresponding to the power-on state from the second table 642. Furthermore, the calculation unit 101 calculates the energy consumption by accumulating the power consumption value over the period during which the specific power state continues. Afterward, the calculation unit 101 proceeds from step S1603 to step S1108.

[0153] According to the second embodiment, detection circuits 1401 and 1402 are examples of detection units that detect device-specific power consumption values ​​of external loads connected to I / F 109 or 110. Calculation unit 101 can obtain the device-specific power consumption values ​​of the external loads from detection circuits 1401 or 1402. Therefore, according to the second embodiment, even if an optional device 500 with an unknown power consumption value is connected, energy consumption can be calculated with high accuracy. As a result, energy consumption throughout the image forming apparatus 10 can be calculated more accurately. Furthermore, even if the connection and power-on states of some optional devices 500 change dynamically, energy consumption can still be calculated with high accuracy.

[0154] Variations

[0155] In the first embodiment, the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643 are stored in the memory 104, but this is merely an example. Any one or more of the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643 can be stored in a server computer connected to a wired or wireless LAN. The computing unit 101 can access the server computer via I / F 108 or I / F 111 and refer to the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643. The computing unit 101 can also access the server computer via I / F 108 or I / F 111 and download the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643 to the memory 104.

[0156] like Figure 17A As shown, the computing unit 101 can obtain the power consumption value of an external load from outside the image forming apparatus 10. As described above, the server computer 1700 in the external network can store a first table 641, a second table 642, and a third table 643. The server computer 1700 includes a CPU, communication circuitry, and storage devices (e.g., RAM, ROM, hard disk drive, or solid-state drive). The storage devices of the server computer 1700 store the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643.

[0157] In step S1701, the computing unit 101 accesses the server computer 1700 via the control unit 107 and I / F 108 and sends a request for power consumption values. Here, the request related to the first table 641 includes information indicating power status and information indicating operating status. The request related to the second table 642 includes identification information of optional devices and power status or power-on status. The request related to the third table 643 includes identification information or device ID of optional devices.

[0158] In step S1702, the server computer 1700 receives the request and searches the first table 641, the second table 642, or the third table 643 to extract the power consumption value corresponding to the request.

[0159] In step S1703, the server computer 1700 sends the power consumption value found in the search to the image forming apparatus 10. The computing unit 101 stores the power consumption value received from the server computer 1700 in memory 104 or memory 103 and uses the value when calculating energy consumption.

[0160] like Figure 17B As shown, the computing unit 101 can obtain any one or more of the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643 from a device outside the image forming apparatus 10.

[0161] In step S1711, the computing unit 101 accesses the server computer 1700 via the control unit 107 and I / F 108, and sends a request for the first table 641, the second table 642, or the third table 643. Here, the requests related to the first table 641, the second table 642, and the third table 643 may include identification information of the image forming apparatus 10. This is because the tables may differ depending on the model of the image forming apparatus 10.

[0162] In step S1712, the server computer 1700 receives the request, searches for and extracts the first table 641, the second table 642 or the third table 643 corresponding to the request.

[0163] In step S1713, the server computer 1700 sends the first table 641, the second table 642, or the third table 643 found in the search to the image forming apparatus 10. The computing unit 101 stores the first table 641, the second table 642, or the third table 643 received from the server computer 1700 in the memory 104 or the memory 103, and uses the received tables when calculating energy consumption.

[0164] Other embodiments

[0165] Embodiments of this disclosure can also be implemented by a computer of a system or apparatus and by a method performed by the computer of the system or apparatus, wherein the computer of the system or apparatus reads and executes computer-executable instructions (e.g., one or more programs) recorded on a storage medium (which may also be more fully referred to as a "non-transitory computer-readable storage medium") to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments, and / or the computer of the system or apparatus includes one or more circuits (e.g., application-specific integrated circuits (ASICs)) for performing the functions of one or more of the above embodiments, the method being performed by the computer of the system or apparatus, for example, by reading and executing the computer-executable instructions from the storage medium to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments, and / or by controlling the one or more circuits to perform the functions of one or more of the above embodiments. The computer may include one or more processors (e.g., a central processing unit (CPU), a microprocessor unit (MPU)) and may include a network of stand-alone computers or stand-alone processors to read and execute the computer-executable instructions. The computer-executable instructions may, for example, be provided to the computer from a network or storage medium. The storage medium may include, for example, a hard disk, random access memory (RAM), read-only memory (ROM), storage devices for distributed computing systems, optical discs (such as CDs, DVDs, or Blu-ray discs). TM One or more of the following: flash memory devices, memory cards, etc.

[0166] Embodiments of the present invention can also be implemented by providing software (including computer program products of computer programs) that performs the functions of the above embodiments to a system or device via a network or various storage media, and the computer (central processing unit (CPU) or microprocessor unit (MPU) of the system or device) reads and executes the computer program.

[0167] Although this disclosure has been described with reference to embodiments, it should be understood that this disclosure is not limited to the disclosed embodiments. The scope of the appended claims should be given the broadest interpretation to include all such modifications as well as equivalent structures and functions.

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus, comprising: An internal load, wherein the internal load is disposed inside the image forming apparatus; A connection unit is provided, through which an external load can be connected; A power supply configured to supply power to the internal load and the external load; as well as The calculation unit is configured to calculate the power consumption value of the internal load, obtain the device-specific power consumption value of the external load connected to the connection unit, and perform calculations including the addition of the power consumption value of the internal load and the device-specific power consumption value of the external load.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A storage unit configured to store multiple power consumption values ​​corresponding to multiple external loads; as well as An identification unit, configured to identify external loads connected to the connection unit. The computing unit obtains from the storage unit a device-specific power consumption value corresponding to the external load identified by the identification unit.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, in, For each of the plurality of external loads, the storage unit further stores the identification information of the external load in association with the power consumption value of the external load, and The identification unit communicates with the external load of the connection via the connection unit, obtains the identification information of the external load of the connection from the external load of the connection, and obtains the power consumption value associated with the obtained identification information from the storage unit.

4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein when the identification unit identifies that the external load connected to the connection unit is an unknown device, the computing unit obtains a power consumption value for the unknown device from the storage unit.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the power consumption value for the unknown device is a nominal maximum power value defined for the connection unit.

6. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 further includes a notification unit configured to provide a notification indicating that an unknown device having an unknown power consumption value has connected to the connection unit.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, The identification unit communicates with the connected external load via the connection unit to obtain power information about the device-specific power consumption value of the connected external load and identification information for identifying the connected external load. The storage units store the acquired power consumption values ​​and the acquired identification information in an interconnected manner.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the computing unit communicates with an external load via the connection unit to obtain power information about the device-specific power consumption value of the external load.

9. The image forming apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the computing unit extracts or derives a device-specific power consumption value of the external load based on the acquired power information.

10. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a detection unit configured to detect a device-specific power consumption value of the external load connected to the connection unit, wherein the computing unit obtains the device-specific power consumption value of the external load from the detection unit.

11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the computing unit calculates energy consumption by accumulating along the time axis a total value obtained by adding the device-specific power consumption value of the external load and the power consumption value of the internal load.

12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 11, The image forming apparatus described herein has multiple power states, and The calculation unit accumulates energy consumption for each of the multiple time periods of a specific power state among the multiple power states, and accumulates energy consumption for each of the multiple predetermined statistical time periods.

13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The image forming apparatus described herein has multiple power states, and The power supply switches the power supply state to the external load according to the state transitions between the multiple power states.

14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, further comprising a storage unit configured to store, for each of the plurality of power states of the image forming apparatus, a power consumption value of the external load. The computing unit obtains from the storage unit the power consumption value of the external load corresponding to the current power state of the image forming apparatus.

15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, The plurality of power states include a first state, a second state, and a third state. The first state is the power state of the image forming apparatus when performing its operation. The second state is the power state of the image forming apparatus waiting for input for a task. The third state is the power state in which the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state. The power consumption of the image forming apparatus in the third state is lower than that of the image forming apparatus in the second state, and The power consumption of the image forming apparatus in the second state is lower than that of the image forming apparatus in the first state.

16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 15, The plurality of power states also includes a fourth state. The fourth state is the power state in which the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state, and The power consumption of the image forming apparatus in the fourth state is lower than that of the image forming apparatus in the third state.

17. The image forming apparatus according to claim 16, wherein the device-specific power consumption value of the external load in the fourth state is lower than the device-specific power consumption value of the external load in the third state.

18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, The connection unit includes a connector conforming to a predetermined technical standard, and The external load includes peripheral devices that conform to the predetermined technical standards.

19. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a storage unit configured to store power consumption values ​​of an external load conforming to a first version of a technical standard and power consumption values ​​of an external load conforming to a second version of a technical standard. The connection unit includes: The first connector conforming to the first version of the technical standard, and The second connector conforms to the second version of the technical standard. With an external load connected to the first connector, the computing unit obtains from the storage unit the power consumption value of the external load conforming to the first version of the technology standard, and When an external load is connected to the second connector, the computing unit obtains the power consumption value of the external load, which conforms to the second version of the technical standard, from the storage unit.

20. The image forming apparatus according to claim 19, wherein the technical standard is the Universal Serial Bus standard.

21. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a display unit configured to display, for each of a plurality of predetermined statistical periods, a cumulative value relating to a total value obtained by adding a device-specific power consumption value of the external load and a power consumption value of the internal load.

22. The image forming apparatus according to claim 21 further includes a switching unit configured to switch the position of the predetermined statistical period along the time axis or to switch the length of the predetermined statistical period.

23. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: A communication unit configured to communicate with a storage unit that stores the power consumption values ​​of each of a plurality of external loads; as well as An identification unit, configured to identify external loads connected to the connection unit. The computing unit obtains from the storage unit a device-specific power consumption value corresponding to the external load identified by the identification unit.

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