Image forming apparatus and method for controlling image forming apparatus

Abstract

To provide an image forming apparatus that automatically adjusts the detection sensitivity of a detection unit that detects a person to allow accurate transition of an operating state.SOLUTION: An image forming apparatus can make a transition of an operating state between at least a first state that is an operating state where it can start image formation, and a second state where it consumes less power than in the first state, and comprises: a detection unit that detects a person; a storage unit that stores setting information setting the detection sensitivity of the detection unit according to a time zone; and a control unit that controls the detection sensitivity of the detection unit on the basis of the setting information. The control unit calculates, for every time zone, the number of times of detection made by the detection unit when the detection unit detects a person, a transition of the operating state is made from the second state to the first state, and subsequently no image formation is performed, changes the detection sensitivity of the detection unit on the basis of the number of times of detection obtained through the calculation, and updates the setting information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an image forming apparatus and the like.

Background Art

[0002] In image forming apparatuses such as copiers, in order to save energy, at least between a normal operating state, which is an operating state in which image formation can be started, and a power saving mode state in which power consumption is lower than that of the normal operating state, there are some that can shift the operating state.

[0003] For example, in Patent Document 1, it is described that an administrator of an image forming apparatus does not need to determine a transition schedule defined for the conditions for transitioning from the normal operating state to the power saving mode, and can appropriately determine the transition schedule based on external information and internal information.

[0004] On the other hand, Patent Document 2 describes an electronic device that can return to the normal operating state at an appropriate timing according to the power saving state by changing the detection distance of a human sensor that detects a person according to the energy saving level.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0005]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0006] An object of the present disclosure is to provide an image forming apparatus or the like that can accurately shift the operating state by automatically adjusting the detection sensitivity of a detection unit that detects a person.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above problems, an image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure is an image forming apparatus capable of shifting an operating state between at least a first state which is an operating state in which image formation can be started and a second state which has lower power consumption than the first state, and includes a detection unit that detects a person, a storage unit that stores setting information in which the detection sensitivity of the detection unit according to a time zone is set, and a control unit that controls the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the setting information. The control unit calculates the number of detections of the detection unit for each time zone when the detection unit detects a person and after the operation has shifted from the second state to the first state and no image formation has been performed, and changes the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the calculated number of detections to update the setting information.

[0008] Further, a control method for an image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure is a control method for an image forming apparatus capable of shifting an operating state between at least a first state which is an operating state in which image formation can be started and a second state which has lower power consumption than the first state, and includes storing setting information in which the detection sensitivity of a detection unit according to a time zone is set, controlling the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the setting information, calculating the number of detections by the detection unit for each time zone when the detection unit detects a person and after the operating state has shifted from the second state to the first state and no image formation has been performed, and changing the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the calculated number of detections to update the setting information.

Advantages of the Invention

[0009] According to the present disclosure, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus or the like capable of accurately shifting the operating state by automatically adjusting the detection sensitivity of a detection unit that detects a person.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0010]

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MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present disclosure will be described with reference to the drawings. Note that the following embodiments are examples for explaining the present disclosure, and the technical content of the description described in the claims is not limited to the following description.

[0012] First, the power saving function of the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure will be described. FIG. 14 is a transition diagram for explaining the operating state of the image forming apparatus, with power consumption (w) on the vertical axis and time (t) on the horizontal axis. When the power is turned on at time t0, the image forming apparatus starts supplying power to each functional unit described later and executes a warm-up operation.

[0013] At time t1, the operating state of the image forming apparatus becomes a first state in which image formation can be started (hereinafter, in the present disclosure, the first state may be referred to as a ready state). Thereafter, if no image formation or the like is performed within a predetermined time from time t1 to time t2, the operating state of the image forming apparatus becomes a second state (standby state 1) with lower power consumption than the ready state (power W3 → power W2). The standby state 1 corresponds to, for example, a preheating state in which the temperature of the fixing unit related to image fixing is lowered to reduce the power consumption compared to the ready state.

[0014] If no image formation or the like is performed within a predetermined time from time t3 to time t5 when the standby state 1 is reached, the operating state of the image forming apparatus becomes another second state (standby state 2) with lower power consumption than the standby state 1 (power W2 → power W1). The standby state 2 corresponds to, for example, a state in which power supply to the operation unit such as the touch panel and the fixing unit described later is stopped, and standby is performed with the lowest power consumption.

[0015] When the detection unit such as a human sensor detects a person at time t4 before the transition from the second state (standby state 1) to another second state (standby state 2), the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure returns from the second state (standby state 1) to the first state (ready state) and executes image formation.

[0016] Similarly, when the detection unit detects a person while the operating state of another second state (standby state 2) continues (for example, at time t7), the image forming apparatus according to the present disclosure returns from the other second state (standby state 2) to the first state (ready state) and executes image formation.

[0017] In the prior art, when an image forming apparatus that does not have a learning function for the detection sensitivity or detection range of a detection unit is installed in a place where people come and go frequently, such as a place where there are many pedestrians or a time zone where there are changes in the coming and going of people, the image forming apparatus will perform preliminary operations related to image formation (for example, lighting of a touch panel, preliminary heating of a fixing unit, activation of an image forming unit, drum driving operation, etc.) regardless of whether there is an intention to perform image formation of the detected person, so that unnecessary power (energy) may be consumed.

[0018] Also, in the prior art, since the detection sensitivity and detection range of the detection unit are not considered, there may be a situation where an execution instruction for image formation is received via, for example, a touch panel even though no person is detected.

[0019] In the present disclosure, a mode in which image formation is not executed even though the detection unit has normally detected a person or a mode in which image formation is executed even though the detection unit cannot detect a person is collectively referred to as a false detection by the detection unit.

[0020] In the present disclosure, by automatically adjusting the detection sensitivity of a detection unit that detects a person, an image forming apparatus or the like capable of shifting to a highly accurate operating state is realized in the following embodiments.

[0021] [1 First Embodiment] [1.1 Functional Configuration] FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the overall configuration of a multifunction machine 10 as an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the functional configuration of the multifunction machine 10.

[0022] The multifunction machine 10 is a form of an image forming apparatus that can realize various types of jobs such as printing, copying, FAX, and image transmission in one housing. In the first embodiment, the form of the multifunction machine 10 is described as a form of an image forming apparatus, but the image forming apparatus is not limited to the multifunction machine 10, and may be, for example, a printer, a copier, a FAX device, etc. that limit the job function.

[0023] The multifunction device 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 13, a communication unit 15, an image forming unit 17, an image input unit 19, a detection unit 21, a power supply unit 23, and a storage unit 25.

[0024] The control unit 11 comprehensively controls the multifunction device 10. The control unit 11 can be constituted by one or a plurality of processing devices (for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit), an SoC (System on Chip), etc.). The control unit 11 realizes its functions by reading and executing various programs stored in the storage unit 25.

[0025] The operation unit 13 is an input device that receives input of information by a user or the like. The operation unit 13 can be constituted by various input devices such as operation keys such as hard keys and software keys, buttons, etc. Further, the operation unit 13 can also be configured as a touch panel capable of input via a display device such as an LCD (Liquid Crystal Display) or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. When the operation unit 13 is configured as a touch panel, coordinate information, pressure-sensitive information, etc. on the touch panel can be acquired. In this case, as the input method of the touch panel, for example, general methods such as a resistive film method, an infrared method, an electromagnetic induction method, a capacitance method, etc. can be adopted.

[0026] The communication unit 15 includes either a wired / wireless interface or both for communicating with other devices (not shown) via a network NW such as a LAN (Local Area Network), a WAN (Wide Area Network), the Internet, a telephone line, a FAX line, etc. Further, the communication unit 15 may include an interface related to (short-range) wireless communication technologies such as Bluetooth (registered trademark), NFC (Near Field Communication), Wi-Fi (registered trademark), ZIgBee (registered trademark), IrDA (Infrared Data Association), wireless USB (Universal Serial Bus), etc.

[0027] The image forming unit 17 feeds the paper from the paper feeding unit 27, forms an image based on the image data on the paper, and then discharges the paper to a discharge unit (not shown). The image forming unit 17 can be configured by, for example, a laser printer or the like that employs an electrophotographic method. In this case, the image forming unit 17 forms an image using toner supplied from a toner cartridge (not shown) corresponding to the toner color (for example, cyan, magenta, yellow, black). Note that the image forming unit 17 may be configured to output image data for image transmission by performing, for example, shading correction or density correction on the image data input from the image input unit 19.

[0028] The image input unit 19 generates image data by scanning a document. The image input unit 19 can be configured as a scanner device having, for example, an image sensor such as a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) or a CIS (Contact Image Sensor), an automatic document feeder 191 (ADF: Auto Document Feeder), a discharge tray 193, a document table 195 for placing and reading a document, and the like. There is no particular limitation on the configuration of the image input unit 19 as long as it can generate image data by reading a reflected light image from the document image with the image sensor. Note that the image input unit 19 can also be configured as an interface capable of acquiring image data stored in a storage medium such as a USB memory or image data transmitted from an external device (not shown).

[0029] The detection unit 21 can be configured as a human presence sensor 210 for detecting the presence of a person. The human presence sensor 210 is disposed on the front side of the document table 195 of the image input unit 19 (on the left side of the operation unit 13 and above the paper discharge tray 193). When the human presence sensor 210 is configured as, for example, an infrared sensor (such as a pyroelectric sensor), the human presence sensor 210 receives infrared rays and outputs a signal according to the received signal intensity. The human presence sensor 210 according to the first embodiment is set to have multiple levels of detection sensitivity according to the detection distance or detection area capable of detecting a person. Here, an example of setting the detection sensitivity for the human presence sensor 210 will be described using the table in FIG. 3.

[0030] As shown in the table of FIG. 3, in the first embodiment, the human presence sensor 210 is provided with three levels of detection sensitivity, namely sensitivity 1, sensitivity 2, and sensitivity 3, according to the detection distance and detection area capable of detecting a person. The detection sensitivity related to sensitivity 1 is a detection sensitivity that emphasizes the detection of a person present at a position close to the main body of the multifunction machine 10 (short distance (Da) · narrow range (Ea)). The detection sensitivity related to sensitivity 3 is a detection sensitivity that emphasizes the detection of a person present at a position far from the main body of the multifunction machine 10 (long distance (Dc) · wide range (Ec)). The sensitivity that can be detected at the detection distance (Db) and detection area (Eb) intermediate between sensitivity 1 and sensitivity 3 shall be referred to as sensitivity 2. The sensitivity variables K assigned to the respective detection sensitivities of sensitivity 1, sensitivity 2, and sensitivity 3 are referred to as 1, 2, and 3, respectively.

[0031] The power supply unit 23 supplies the power supplied from the outside to each functional unit via a power supply line (not shown). The power supply unit 23 can maintain the operating state of the multifunction machine 10 in a ready state, which is the first state, and a standby state (standby state 1 or standby state 2), which is the second state, by controlling (such as power supply, limitation, or stop) the power supplied to each functional unit based on the control by the control unit 11.

[0032] The storage unit 25 is one or more storage devices that store various programs and various data necessary for the operation of the multifunction machine 10. The storage unit 25 can be configured by, for example, storage devices such as RAM (Random Access Memory), SSD (Solid State Drive), HDD (Hard Disk Drive), and ROM (Read Only Memory).

[0033] In the first embodiment, the storage unit 25 stores a control program 251, a power control program 252, and a detection sensitivity determination program 253, and secures a time-zone sensitivity table storage area 254 and a determination table storage area 255.

[0034] The control program 251 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when comprehensively controlling the multifunction machine 10. The control unit 11 that has read the control program 251 controls the driving of hardware such as the operation unit 13, the communication unit 15, the image forming unit 17, the image input unit 19, the detection unit 21 (human sensor 210), and the power supply unit 23.

[0035] The power control program 252 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when controlling the operation state of the multifunction machine 10. The control unit 11 that has read the power control program 252 maintains the operation state of the multifunction machine 10 in the ready state, which is the first state, and the standby state, which is the second state, by controlling the driving of the power supply unit 23.

[0036] The detection sensitivity determination program 253 is a program that the control unit 11 reads when determining the detection sensitivity set for the human presence sensor 210. The control unit 11 that has read the detection sensitivity determination program 253 calculates the number of detections (hereinafter referred to as the false detection count) for each time period when the human presence sensor 210 detects a person and the operation state of the multifunction device 10 has shifted from the second state to the first state but no image formation has been performed. Then, based on the comparison result between the calculated false detection count and the first reference value (for example, 5 times) or the second reference value (for example, 2 times), the control unit 11 determines whether the current detection sensitivity setting applied to the human presence sensor 210 is an appropriate setting. Also, the control unit 11 calculates the number of times image formation has been performed as the execution count for each time period. Then, based on the comparison result between the calculated execution count and a third reference value (for example, 20 times), which will be described later, the control unit 11 determines whether the current detection sensitivity setting applied to the human presence sensor 210 is an appropriate setting.

[0037] The time-zone sensitivity table storage area 254 is a storage area that stores a time-zone sensitivity table as setting information that summarizes the detection sensitivities set for the human presence sensor 210 in each time zone from Monday to Sunday. The time-zone sensitivity table divides the time from 0:00 to 24:00 related to Monday to Sunday into 24 time zones, and sets the detection sensitivity of the human presence sensor 210 with the sensitivity variable K for each such time zone. As illustrated in FIG. 4, FIG. 4 is an example in which the sensitivity variable K “1” is set for time zones No. 1 to No. 8 (0:00 to 8:00), time zones No. 20 to No. 24 (19:00 to 24:00) from Monday to Friday, and the whole day of Saturday and Sunday. These time zones are time zones corresponding to outside working hours (early morning, after work, or holidays). For example, when the multifunction device 10 is installed in an office or the like, the possibility that an employee working in the office approaches the multifunction device 10 during this time zone is low. Further, even if there is a person performing copying or the like using the multifunction device 10 during this time zone, the detection sensitivity of the human presence sensor 210 is the lowest sensitivity 1. The multifunction device 10 can maintain the standby state, which is an energy-saving state, because it does not shift to the ready state unless a person approaches within the detection distance or detection area related to sensitivity 1.

[0038] On the other hand, for time zones No. 9 to No. 19 (8:00 to 19:00) from Monday to Friday, the sensitivity variable K “3” is set. The time zone corresponds to working hours. Productivity is required during working hours. Therefore, the preliminary operation related to image formation is started before a person away from the multifunction device 10 approaches the multifunction device 10, and when the person reaches the multifunction device 10, it is preferable that the multifunction device 10 is in a ready state or an operation state close to the ready state in which the image formation operation such as copying can be started immediately. Therefore, in the time zone corresponding to working hours, it is preferable to set the human presence sensor 210 to the highest detection sensitivity 3 and configure it to actively detect a person away from the multifunction device 10.

[0039] Returning to FIG. 2 again, the determination table storage area 255 is a storage area that stores a determination table related to detection sensitivity determination that is referred to by the control unit 11 that has read out the detection sensitivity determination program 253.

[0040] [1.2 Process flow] Next, the process flow according to the first embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 5. The process described with reference to FIG. 5 is a process executed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 by reading the control program 251, the power control program 252, the detection sensitivity determination program 253, etc. In addition, the false detection count and the like described in the following flowchart will be described as being counted (calculated) based on either or both of the detection distance and the detection area that can be detected by the human sensor 210.

[0041] When starting the process, the control unit 11 reads the sensitivity variable K of the currently set detection sensitivity. In addition, the control unit 11 initializes the count values of the false detection count and the execution count (step S100).

[0042] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the reference time has been reached (step S110). Here, the reference time is intended to be the start time or the end time of each time zone illustrated in FIG. 4, and is a time corresponding to the update timing of the detection sensitivity.

[0043] If it is determined that the reference time has not been reached, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a job related to image formation has been received (step S110; No → step S120). If it is determined that a job related to image formation has been received, the control unit 11 executes the received job and returns the process to step S110 (step S120; Yes → step S130 → step S110).

[0044] On the other hand, when it is determined that a job related to image formation is not being received, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a transition time T related to the transition from the ready state to the standby state has elapsed (step S120; No → step S140). When it is determined that the transition time T has not elapsed, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S110 (step S140; No → step S110). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transition time T has elapsed and the operation state of the multifunction machine 10 has transitioned from the ready state to the standby state, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a person has been detected by the human sensor 210 (step S140; Yes → step S150).

[0045] When it is determined that a person has been detected by the human sensor 210, the control unit 11 returns the operation state of the multifunction machine 10 to the ready state (step S150; Yes → step S160). Note that when it is determined that a person has not been detected by the human sensor 210, the control unit 11 waits until a person is detected by the human sensor 210 (step S150; No).

[0046] After returning to the ready state, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a job related to image formation has been received (step S170). When it is determined that a job related to image formation has been received, the control unit 11 increments the execution count and executes the job (step S170; Yes → step S180 → step S130). After executing the job, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S110 (step S130 → step S110).

[0047] On the other hand, when it is determined that a job related to image formation is not being received, the control unit 11 increments the misdetection count and returns the process to step S110 (step S170; No → step S190 → step S110).

[0048] Incidentally, in step S110, when it is determined that the reference time has been reached, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than a first reference value (for example, five times) (step S110; Yes → step S200). When it is determined that the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than the first reference value, the control unit 11 decreases the value of the sensitivity variable K read in step S100, overwrites and updates the sensitivity table by time zone illustrated in FIG. 4, and shifts the process to the next time zone (step S200; Yes → step S210 → “to the next time zone”).

[0049] When the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than the first reference value, the control unit 11 can reduce the detection sensitivity and reduce the occurrence of false detections by decreasing the value of the sensitivity variable K.

[0050] On the other hand, when it is determined that the value of the false detection count is less than the first reference value, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the value of the false detection count is less than a second reference value (for example, two times) and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than a third reference value (for example, twenty times) (step S200; No → step S220). When the control unit 11 determines that the value of the false detection count is less than the second reference value and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than the third reference value, the control unit 11 increases the value of the sensitivity variable K read in step S100, overwrites and updates the sensitivity table by time zone illustrated in FIG. 4, and shifts the process to the next time zone (step S220; Yes → step S230 → “to the next time zone”).

[0051] When the value of the false detection count is less than the second reference value and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than the third reference value, it can be said that the number of false detections is small and the number of returns to the ready state is large. In this case, since it is considered that the detection sensitivity is too poor and the waiting time until the execution of the job related to image formation becomes long, the control unit 11 can increase the detection sensitivity so that a person can be detected faster and improve the convenience.

[0052] On the other hand, when the control unit 11 determines that the value of the false detection count is less than the second reference value and the value of the execution count is not more than the third reference value, it shifts the process to the next time zone (step S220; No → "to the next time zone").

[0053] In the present disclosure, increasing the detection sensitivity (increasing the value of the sensitivity variable K) is intended to change to a detection sensitivity having a longer detection distance (or a wider detection area), and decreasing the detection sensitivity (decreasing the value of the sensitivity variable K) is intended to change to a detection sensitivity having a shorter detection distance (or a narrower detection area).

[0054] Also, the first reference value or the second reference value according to the first embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is a value capable of determining false detection (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 normally detects a person), and can be set as appropriate. Similarly, the third reference value is not particularly limited, and can be appropriately set and changed according to, for example, the number of employees active in the office, the total number or average number of jobs related to image formation received for each time zone, and the like.

[0055] [1.3 Operation Example] Next, an operation example according to the first embodiment will be described. FIGS. 6 and 7 are diagrams schematically explaining the difference in the detection range of the human presence sensor 210. FIGS. 6(a) and 6(b) are diagrams explaining the difference in the detection distance of the human presence sensor 210 according to the detection sensitivity. When the installation surface side of the touch panel as the operation unit 13 for the multifunction device 10 is defined as the front side, FIG. 6(a) shows a view of the detection range schematically shown from the (left) side of the multifunction device 10, and FIG. 6(b) shows a view of the detection range schematically shown from above the multifunction device 10. FIG. 7 is a diagram explaining the difference in the detection area according to the detection sensitivity, and shows a view of the detection range schematically shown from above the multifunction device 10.

[0056] The detection range (detection distance and detection area) of the human presence sensor 210 according to the present disclosure can be changed electrically or mechanically, and a known circuit or mechanism or the like can be used therefor. As described above, when an infrared sensor (such as a pyroelectric sensor) is used as the human presence sensor 210, a shutter member (such as a deflection filter) 211 capable of electrically controlling the transmission range of infrared rays is arranged in front of the human presence sensor 210, whereby the detection angle can be changed electrically.

[0057] FIG. 6(a) shows that the detection angle α in the figure can be changed by masking any one or a combination of the mask regions 1, 2, and 3 divided in the vertical direction of the shutter member 211. The detection angle α represents the angle formed by the center axis of the human presence sensor 210 and an imaginary reference line provided in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the standing direction (vertical direction) of the multifunction device 10. FIG. 6(a) shows the detection angle at which the detection sensitivity becomes the detection distance Db related to sensitivity 2 by masking the mask region 3.

[0058] Similarly, by masking the mask region 3 and the mask region 2 of the shutter member 211, the detection sensitivity can be set to sensitivity 1 with a detection distance of Da. Also, by restricting the masking of the mask region of the shutter member 211, the detection sensitivity can be set to sensitivity 3 with a detection distance of Dc.

[0059] As shown in FIG. 6(b), according to the human presence sensor 210 according to the first embodiment, detection sensitivities (sensitivity 1, sensitivity 2, sensitivity 3) having different detection distances (Da < Db < Dc) can be set according to the presence or absence of masking with respect to the mask regions 1, 2, and 3 of the shutter member 211.

[0060] FIG. 7 shows that the detection angle α in the figure can be changed by masking any one or a combination of the mask regions 1, 2, and 3 divided in the vertical direction of the shutter member 211. The detection angle α represents the angle formed by an imaginary reference line provided in the horizontal direction perpendicular to the standing direction (vertical direction) of the multifunction machine 10 and the central axis of the human presence sensor 210 in the horizontal direction. FIG. 7 shows the detection angle at which the detection sensitivity becomes the detection region Eb related to sensitivity 2 by masking the mask region 3. Similarly, by masking the mask region 3 and the mask region 2 of the shutter member 211, the detection sensitivity can be set to sensitivity 1 with the detection region being Ea. Further, by restricting the masking of the mask region of the shutter member 211, the detection sensitivity can be set to sensitivity 3 with the detection region being Ec.

[0061] As shown in FIG. 7, according to the human presence sensor 210 according to the first embodiment, detection sensitivities (sensitivity 1, 2, 3) having different detection regions (Ea < Eb < Ec) can be set according to the presence or absence of masking for the mask regions 1, 2, and 3 of the shutter member 211.

[0062] As described above, according to the first embodiment, after the human presence sensor detects a person and makes an operation transition from the standby state to the ready state, when image formation is not performed, the number of detections of the human presence sensor is calculated for each time zone, and based on the calculated number of detections, the detection sensitivity of the human presence sensor is changed to update the time zone-specific sensitivity table, thereby reducing the occurrence of false detections. Also, when the detection sensitivity is too poor and the waiting time until the execution of a job related to image formation becomes long, by increasing the detection sensitivity, a person can be detected faster, improving convenience.

[0063] [2 Second Embodiment] The second embodiment is a form in which, in the first embodiment, based on the false detection rate, which is the ratio of the cumulative detection count (cumulative detection count), which is the cumulative value of the number of detections of people detected by the human presence sensor 2l0 in each time zone, to the false detection count, the detection sensitivity for the human presence sensor 210 is changed to update the time zone-specific sensitivity table.

[0064] [2.1 Functional Configuration] Since the functional configuration according to the second embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration according to the first embodiment, the description here is omitted.

[0065] [2.2 Flow of Processing] The flow of processing according to the second embodiment can be obtained by replacing the flowchart of FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment with the flowchart of FIG. 8. Therefore, for the same processing as in FIG. 6, the same step numbers may be assigned and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0066] When starting the processing, the control unit 11 reads the currently set sensitivity variable K. Further, the control unit 11 initializes the misdetection count, the execution count, and the cumulative detection count which is the cumulative value of the number of detections of people detected by the human sensor 2l0 in each time zone (step S300).

[0067] In step S160, the control unit 11 returns the operation state of the multifunction device 10 to the ready state and increments the cumulative detection count (step S160 → step S310).

[0068] By the way, in step S110, when it is determined that the reference time has been reached, the control unit 11 calculates the misdetection rate which is the ratio of the misdetection count to the cumulative detection count, and determines whether the misdetection rate (misdetection count / cumulative detection count) is equal to or higher than a first reference value (for example, 70%) (step S320). When it is determined that the value of the misdetection rate is equal to or higher than the first reference value, the control unit 11 decreases the value of the sensitivity variable K read in step S100, overwrites and updates the sensitivity table by time zone illustrated in FIG. 4, and shifts the processing to the next time zone (step S320; Yes → step S210 → "to the next time zone").

[0069] When the value of the misdetection rate is equal to or higher than the first reference value, the control unit 11 can reduce the detection sensitivity and reduce the occurrence of misdetections by decreasing the value of the sensitivity variable K.

[0070] On the other hand, when it is determined that the value of the false detection rate is less than the first reference value, the control unit 11 determines whether the value of the false detection rate is less than the second reference value (for example, 50%) and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than the third reference value (for example, 20 times) (step S320; No → step S330). When the control unit 11 determines that the value of the false detection rate is less than the second reference value and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than the third reference value, the value of the sensitivity variable K read in step S100 is incremented by one, the time zone sensitivity table illustrated in FIG. 4 is overwritten and updated, and the process proceeds to the next time zone (step S320; Yes → step S210 → "to the next time zone").

[0071] When the value of the false detection rate is less than the second reference value and the value of the execution count is equal to or greater than the third reference value, it can be said that the number of false detections is small and the number of returns to the ready state is large. In this case, since it is considered that the detection sensitivity is too poor and the waiting time until the execution of the job related to image formation becomes long, by increasing the detection sensitivity, a person can be detected faster and the convenience can be improved.

[0072] Note that the first reference value or the second reference value according to the second embodiment is not particularly limited as long as it is a value capable of determining false detection (image formation is not executed despite the human presence sensor 210 normally detecting a person). For example, the first reference value can be set to 50% to 100%, preferably about 70% to 90%, and the second reference value can be set to less than 50%. Further, the third reference value is not particularly limited, and it is also possible to set the same value as the third reference value exemplified in the first embodiment.

[0073] As described above, according to the second embodiment, in addition to the effects according to the first embodiment, the variation in false detection for each time zone by the human presence sensor can be averaged by the false detection rate, so that an image forming apparatus capable of more accurately shifting to an operating state can be provided.

[0074] [3 Third Embodiment] In the third embodiment, when the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than a fourth reference value, and the detection time by the human presence sensor 210 when the fourth reference value is reached is within a predetermined time from the first recording time of the detection count related to the fourth reference value, the detection sensitivity of the human presence sensor 210 is changed and the sensitivity table by time zone is updated.

[0075] [3.1 Functional Configuration] Since the functional configuration according to the third embodiment can be the same as the functional configuration according to the first embodiment, the description here is omitted.

[0076] FIG. 9 is a table for explaining the determination table according to the third embodiment. The determination table is a table that summarizes the overwrite update threshold (allowable value) for the set detection sensitivity (sensitivity variable K) by the count values of the false detection count and the second false detection count.

[0077] Here, the second false detection count is the count of the number of times the image formation is executed without the human presence sensor 210 being able to detect a person.

[0078] For example, for the multifunction device 10, if the detection sensitivity in a certain time zone is set to sensitivity 1 (sensitivity variable K “1”), the value of the false detection count is “0 to 2”, and the value of the second false detection count is “0 to 2”, it is assumed that the set detection sensitivity is appropriate, and the overwrite update of the sensitivity variable K “1” is not performed. On the other hand, when the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than “3” as the fourth reference value and the value of the second false detection count is “0 to 2”, originally, false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 normally detects a person) occur frequently, so an overwrite update to lower the detection sensitivity is performed. However, since sensitivity 1 related to the sensitivity variable K “1” is the lowest detection sensitivity, the overwrite update here is not performed.

[0079] Also, when the value of the false detection count is "0 to 2" and the value of the second false detection count is equal to or greater than "3" as the fifth reference value, since false detections (image formation is executed without the human presence sensor 210 detecting a person) occur frequently, an overwrite update to increase the detection sensitivity is performed. In this case, the sensitivity variable K is overwritten and updated from "1" to "2".

[0080] When the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than "3" and the value of the second false detection count is equal to or greater than "3", false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 has normally detected a person and image formation is executed without the human presence sensor 210 detecting a person) occur frequently. In this case, since it is predicted that the effect related to the overwrite update of the detection sensitivity will be offset, the overwrite update is not performed here.

[0081] Similarly, for the multifunction device 10, when the detection sensitivity in a certain time period is set to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2"), and the value of the false detection count is "0 to 2" and the value of the second false detection count is "3", assuming that the set detection sensitivity is appropriate, the overwrite update of the sensitivity variable K "2" is not performed. On the other hand, when the value of the false detection count is equal to or greater than "3" as the fourth reference value and the value of the second false detection count is "0 to 2", since false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 has normally detected a person) occur frequently, an overwrite update to lower the detection sensitivity is performed. In this case, the sensitivity variable K is overwritten and updated from "2" to "1".

[0082] Also, when the value of the false detection count is "0 to 2" and the value of the second false detection count is equal to or greater than "3" as the fifth reference value, since false detections (image formation is executed without the human presence sensor 210 detecting a person) occur frequently, an overwrite update to increase the detection sensitivity is performed. In this case, the sensitivity variable K is overwritten and updated from "2" to "3".

[0083] When the value of the false detection count is 3 or more and the value of the second false detection count is 3 or more, false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 has normally detected a person and image formation is executed even though the human presence sensor 210 fails to detect a person) occur frequently. In this case, since it is predicted that the effect related to the overwrite update of the detection sensitivity will be offset, the overwrite update here is not performed.

[0084] Similarly, for the multifunction device 10, when the detection sensitivity in a certain time period is set to sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K “3”), and the value of the false detection count is 0 to 2 and the value of the second false detection count is 0 to 2, assuming that the set detection sensitivity is appropriate, the overwrite update of the sensitivity variable K “3” is not performed. On the other hand, when the value of the false detection count is 3 or more as the fourth reference value and the value of the second false detection count is 0 to 2, since false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 has normally detected a person) occur frequently, an overwrite update to lower the detection sensitivity is performed. In this case, the sensitivity variable K is overwrite updated from “3” to “2”.

[0085] Also, when the value of the false detection count is 0 to 2 and the value of the second false detection count is 3 or more as the fifth reference value, originally, since false detections (image formation is executed even though the human presence sensor 210 fails to detect a person) occur frequently, an overwrite update to increase the detection sensitivity is performed. However, since the sensitivity 3 related to the sensitivity variable K “3” is the highest detection sensitivity, the overwrite update here is not performed.

[0086] When the value of the false detection count is 3 or more and the value of the second false detection count is 3 or more, false detections (image formation is not executed even though the human presence sensor 210 has normally detected a person and image formation is executed even though the human presence sensor 210 fails to detect a person) occur frequently. In this case, since it is predicted that the effect related to the overwrite update of the detection sensitivity will be offset, the overwrite update here is not performed.

[0087] In the third embodiment, the value "3" of the misdetection count is given as a specific example of the fourth reference value, and the value "3" of the second misdetection count is given as a specific example of the fifth reference value. However, these reference values are not limited to these values. These reference values can be appropriately set and changed according to, for example, the number of employees working in the office, the total number or average number of jobs related to image formation received for each time period, and the like.

[0088] [3.2 Flow of processing] The flow of processing according to the third embodiment can be obtained by replacing the flowchart of FIG. 5 according to the first embodiment with the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 11. Therefore, for the same processing as in FIG. 5, the same step numbers may be assigned and the description thereof may be omitted.

[0089] When starting the processing, the control unit 11 reads the sensitivity variable K of the currently set detection sensitivity. Further, the control unit 11 initializes the misdetection count, the second misdetection count, and the time variables T1-1, T1-2, T1-3, T2-1, T2-2, T2-3 (step S400).

[0090] Next, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the reference time has been reached (step S110). Here, the reference time is intended to be the start time or end time of each time period illustrated in FIG. 4, and is the time corresponding to the update timing of the detection sensitivity. When it is determined that the reference time has been reached, the control unit 11 ends the processing (step S110; Yes → "end").

[0091] On the other hand, when it is determined that the reference time has not been reached, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a job related to image formation has been received (step S110; No → step S120). When it is determined that a job related to image formation has been received, the control unit 11 executes the received job and returns the processing to step S110 (step S120; Yes → step S130 → step S110).

[0092] When it is determined that a job related to image formation is not being received, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the transition time T related to the transition from the ready state to the standby state has elapsed (step S120; No → step S140). When it is determined that the transition time T has not elapsed, the control unit 11 returns the process to step S110 (step S140; No → step S110). On the other hand, when it is determined that the transition time T has elapsed and the operation state of the multifunction device 10 has shifted from the ready state to the standby state, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a person has been detected by the human sensor 210 (step S140; Yes → step S150).

[0093] When it is determined that a person has been detected by the human sensor 210, the control unit 11 returns the operation state of the multifunction device 10 to the ready state (step S150; Yes → step S160). Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not a job related to image formation has been received (step S160 → step S170).

[0094] When it is determined that a job related to image formation has been received, the control unit 11 executes the received job and returns the process to step S110 (step S170; Yes → step S130 → step S110).

[0095] On the other hand, when it is determined that a job related to image formation is not being received, the control unit 11 records, in step S150, the time when the person was detected as T1-3 (step S170; No → step S410). Next, the control unit 11 increments the false detection count (step S190).

[0096] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether or not the value of the false detection count has reached the fourth reference value (step S420). Here, the fourth reference value can be appropriately set according to the number of the provided time variables T1. In the third embodiment, the fourth reference value is described as being "3".

[0097] When it is determined that the false detection count has reached the fourth reference value, the control unit 11 determines whether the difference between T1-1 and T1-3 is within a predetermined time (for example, 5 minutes) (step S420; Yes → step S430). When it is determined that the difference between T1-1 and T1-3 is within the predetermined time, the control unit 11 refers to the current sensitivity variable K and the determination table (Figure 9), and overwrites and updates the corresponding variable (step S430; Yes → step S440).

[0098] Then, the control unit 11 initializes the value of the false detection count, reads the sensitivity variable K, and returns the process to step S110 (step S450 → step S460 → step S110).

[0099] In addition, in step S420, when the value of the false detection count has not reached the fourth reference value (step S420; No), or when it is determined that the difference between T1-1 and T1-3 is not within the predetermined time (step S430; No), the control unit 11 overwrites T1-2 with T1-1 and T1-3 with T1-2, respectively, and returns the process to step S110 (step S470 → step S110).

[0100] By the way, in step S150, when it is determined that no person is detected by the human sensor 210, the control unit 11 determines whether a job related to image formation has been received (step S150; No → step S480).

[0101] When it is determined that a job related to image formation has not been received, the control unit 11 waits until a person is detected by the human sensor 210 (step S480; No → step S150).

[0102] When it is determined that a job related to image formation has been received, the control unit 11 records the time when the job was received as T2-3 (step S480; Yes → step S490). Next, the control unit 11 increments the second false detection count (step S500).

[0103] Then, the control unit 11 determines whether the value of the second false detection count has reached the fifth reference value (step S510). Here, the fifth reference value can be appropriately set according to the number of the provided time variable T2. In the third embodiment, the fifth reference value is described as "3" in the same manner as the fifth reference.

[0104] If it is determined that the second false detection count has reached the fifth reference value, the control unit 11 determines whether the difference between T2-1 and T2-3 is within a predetermined time (e.g., 5 minutes) (step S510; Yes → step S520). If it is determined that the difference between T2-1 and T2-3 is within the predetermined time, the control unit 11 refers to the current sensitivity variable K and the determination table (Figure 9), and overwrites and updates the corresponding variable (step S520; Yes → step S530).

[0105] Then, the control unit 11 initializes the value of the second false detection count, reads the sensitivity variable K, executes the job, and then returns the process to step S110 (step S540 → step S550 → step S130 → step S110).

[0106] In step S510, if the value of the second false detection count has not reached the fifth reference value (step S510; No), or if it is determined that the difference between T2-1 and T2-3 is not within the predetermined time (step S520; No), the control unit 11 overwrites T2-2 with T2-1 and T2-3 with T2-2, respectively, and returns the process to step S110 (step S560 → step S110).

[0107] Figure 12 is a diagram for explaining the update process of the detection sensitivity related to the sensitivity table by time zone illustrated in Figure 4.

[0108] FIG. 12(a) is a table summarizing the preset set sensitivity (initial value), the false detection count counted in each time period, and the second false detection count in each time period from Monday to Friday. In FIG. 12, for ease of understanding, the count values described in FIG. 12 are described as satisfying the requirements of step S430 (step S520 in FIG. 11) in FIG. 10 (false detection of the reference value number occurred within a predetermined time).

[0109] For example, time period No. 9 (8:00 to 9:00) is a time period corresponding to the time of arrival at work. In time period No. 9, sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K "3") is set as the initial value setting sensitivity (see "Monday" in the sensitivity table by time period in FIG. 4, for example).

[0110] And when the value of the false detection count in this time period is "3" and the value of the second false detection count is "2", the count result satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as shown in the remarks column, since false detections occur frequently, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") with the currently set detection sensitivity decreased by one (FIG. 12(b)).

[0111] Similarly, time period No. 10 (9:00 to 10:00) is a time period corresponding to the start time of a meeting or the like. In time period No. 10, sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K "3") is set as the initial value setting sensitivity (see "Monday" in the sensitivity table by time period in FIG. 4, for example).

[0112] And when the value of the false detection count in this time period is "3" and the value of the second false detection count is "2", the count result satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as shown in the remarks column, since false detections occur frequently, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") with the currently set detection sensitivity decreased by one (FIG. 12(b)).

[0113] Similarly, time zone No. 13 (12:00 - 13:00) is the time zone corresponding to lunch. In time zone No. 13, sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K "3") is set as the initial value setting sensitivity (for example, refer to "Monday" in the time zone - specific sensitivity table of FIG. 4).

[0114] And, when the value of the false detection count in this time zone is "3" and the value of the execution count is "2", the count result satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as noted in the remarks column, since the occurrence of false detections is frequent, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates it to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") which is one level lower than the currently set detection sensitivity (FIG. 12(b)).

[0115] Furthermore, time zone No. 17 (16:00 - 17:00) is the time zone corresponding to leaving work. In time zone No. 17, sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K "3") is set as the initial value setting sensitivity (for example, refer to "Monday" in the time zone - specific sensitivity table of FIG. 4).

[0116] And, when the value of the false detection count in this time zone is "3" and the value of the execution count is "1", the count result satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as noted in the remarks column, since the occurrence of false detections is frequent, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates it to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") which is one level lower than the currently set detection sensitivity (FIG. 12(b)).

[0117] FIG. 12(b) is a table summarizing the false detection count and the execution count counted under the condition of the updated detection sensitivity (updated setting sensitivity) in FIG. 12(a).

[0118] In time period No. 9, the detection sensitivity has been updated to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") through the update process. Here, assume that the value of the false detection count in this time period is "3" and the value of the second false detection count is "2". The count result still satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as noted in the remarks column, since the situation of frequent false detections continues, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates the currently set detection sensitivity to sensitivity 1 (sensitivity variable K "1") which is one level lower (FIG. 12(c)).

[0119] Next, in time period No. 10, the detection sensitivity has been updated to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") through the update process. Assume that although the value of the false detection count in this time period has decreased to "2", the value of the second false detection count is "3". The count result satisfies the condition of step S510 in FIG. 11. In this case, as noted in the remarks column, the situation is that the undetected cases where the job related to image formation is executed without detection by the human presence sensor 210 are increasing. Therefore, the control unit 11 overwrites and updates the detection sensitivity to sensitivity 3 (sensitivity variable K "3") by increasing the updated detection sensitivity by one level (FIG. 12(c)).

[0120] Next, in time period No. 13, the detection sensitivity has been updated to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") through the update process. Assume that the value of the false detection count in this time period has decreased to "2" and the value of the second false detection count is also "2". The count result does not satisfy the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10 or S510 in FIG. 11, and it can be considered that the false detection of the human presence sensor 210 has been improved. In this case, the control unit 11 maintains the updated detection sensitivity of sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") (FIG. 12(c)).

[0121] In time period No. 17, the detection sensitivity is updated to sensitivity 2 (sensitivity variable K "2") by the update process. However, assume that the value of the false detection count in this time period is "3" and the value of the second false detection count is "1". The count result still satisfies the condition of step S420 in FIG. 10. In this case, as noted in the remarks column, since the situation of frequent false detections continues, the control unit 11 updates the currently set detection sensitivity to sensitivity 1 (sensitivity variable K "1") which is one level lower (FIG. 12(c)).

[0122] FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the sensitivity table by time period in which the detection sensitivity is updated by the update process of the detection sensitivity described in FIG. 12. Note that the sensitivity table by time period described in FIG. 13 is an example of the sensitivity table by time period in which the sensitivity table by time period illustrated in FIG. 4 is updated by the update process of the detection sensitivity described in FIG. 12.

[0123] In FIG. 13, the state in which the detection sensitivities related to time periods No. 9, No. 10, No. 13, and No. 17 (the shaded and hatched areas in the figure) are updated is shown. In particular, the detection sensitivity related to No. 10 (the hatched frame in the figure) once reduces the detection sensitivity by one level, and then based on the count result of the second false detection count, controls to increase the detection sensitivity by one level again, thus realizing the real-time update of the detection sensitivity.

[0124] Note that FIG. 13 is an example in which the time periods related to the update of the detection sensitivity are applied in a band shape from Monday to Friday. However, it is of course possible to execute the update of the detection sensitivity on a weekday basis. In particular, in an office where one works, etc., when the workflow on a weekday basis is determined, the movement and attendance status of people can be predicted and grasped to a certain extent. By making the multifunction machine 10 learn this movement of people on a weekday basis, a more accurate transition of the operating state becomes possible.

[0125] As described above, according to the third embodiment, in addition to the effects of the first embodiment, when false detection reaching the reference value is made within a predetermined time (for example, 3 cases within 5 minutes), the detection sensitivity of the human presence sensor 210 can be changed to update the sensitivity table by time zone. Since the detection sensitivity of the updated sensitivity table by time zone is applied to the human presence sensor 210, detection and adjustment by the human presence sensor 210 can be performed in real time. Therefore, for example, an energy-saving operation according to the actual usage situation of customers can be realized.

[0126] The present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications are possible. That is, embodiments obtained by appropriately combining technical means modified within the scope not departing from the gist of the present disclosure are also included in the technical scope of the present disclosure.

[0127] In addition, although the above-described embodiments have parts that are separately described for convenience of explanation, it goes without saying that they may be combined and executed within the technically possible range.

[0128] Also, the program that operates in each device in the embodiment is a program that controls a CPU or the like (a program that causes a computer to function) so as to realize the functions of the above-described embodiments. And the information handled by these devices is temporarily stored in a temporary storage device (for example, RAM) during its processing, and then stored in a storage device such as various ROMs (Read Only Memory) and HDDs, and read out by the CPU as necessary for correction and writing.

[0129] Here, as a computer-readable non-transitory recording medium on which a program in the information processing apparatus is recorded, it may be any of a semiconductor medium (for example, ROM, non-volatile memory card, etc.), an optical recording medium or magneto-optical recording medium (for example, DVD (Digital Versatile Disc), MO (Magneto Optical Disc), MD (Mini Disc), CD (Compact Disc), BD (Blu-ray (registered trademark) Disc, etc.)), a magnetic recording medium (for example, magnetic tape, flexible disk, etc.). In this case, the program recorded on the recording medium is read by the computer of the information processing apparatus and executed by the computer, so that not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also based on the instructions of the program, the functions of the present disclosure are realized by processing in cooperation with an operating system or other application programs, etc.

[0130] Also, when distributing to the market, the program can be stored in a portable recording medium for distribution, or transferred to a server computer connected via a network such as the Internet. In this case, it goes without saying that the storage device of the server computer is also included in the present disclosure.

[0131] In addition, each functional block or various features of the apparatus used in the above-described embodiments can also be implemented and executed by an electric circuit, for example, an integrated circuit or a plurality of integrated circuits. The electric circuit designed to realize the functions described in this specification may include a general-purpose use processor, a digital signal processor (DSP), an application-specific integrated circuit (ASIC), a field programmable gate array (FPGA), or other programmable logic devices, discrete gates or transistor logic, discrete hardware components, or a combination thereof. The general-purpose use processor may be a microprocessor, or a conventional type processor, controller, microcontroller, or state machine. The above-described electric circuit may be composed of a digital circuit or an analog circuit. Further, when an integrated circuit technology that replaces the current integrated circuit appears due to the progress of semiconductor technology, one or more aspects of the present disclosure can also use a new integrated circuit based on such technology.

Description of Reference Numerals

[0132] 10 Multifunction device 11 Control unit 13 Operation unit 15 Communication unit 17 Image forming unit 19 Image input unit 21 Detection unit 210 Human presence sensor 23 Power supply unit 25 Storage unit 251 Control program 252 Power supply control program 253 Detection sensitivity determination program 254 Time zone sensitivity table storage area 255 Determination table storage area

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus capable of shifting an operating state between at least a first state which is an operating state in which image formation can be started, and a second state in which power consumption is less than that of the first state, a detection unit that detects a person, a storage unit that stores setting information in which the detection sensitivity of the detection unit according to a time zone is set, and a control unit that controls the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the setting information, wherein the control unit calculates, for each time zone, the number of detections by the detection unit when the detection unit detects a person and the operating state has shifted from the second state to the first state and no image formation has been performed, and changes the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the calculated number of detections to update the setting information. The image forming apparatus is characterized by this.

2. The detection sensitivity is set in multiple stages according to the detection distance at which the detection unit can detect a person, wherein the control unit changes to a detection sensitivity that results in a detection distance shorter than the set detection sensitivity when the number of detections is equal to or greater than a first reference value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

3. wherein the control unit changes to a detection sensitivity that results in a detection distance longer than the set detection sensitivity when the number of detections is less than a second reference value, the detection unit detects a person, and the number of times image formation has been performed after the operating state has shifted from the second state to the first state is equal to or greater than a third reference value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2 is characterized by this.

4. The detection sensitivity is set in multiple stages according to the detection area that the detection unit can detect, wherein the control unit changes to a detection sensitivity that results in a detection area narrower than the set detection sensitivity when the number of detections is equal to or greater than a first reference value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1 is characterized by this.

5. wherein the control unit changes to a detection sensitivity that results in a detection area wider than the set detection sensitivity when the number of detections is less than a second reference value, the detection unit detects a person, and the number of times image formation has been performed after the operating state has shifted from the second state to the first state is equal to or greater than a third reference value. The image forming apparatus according to claim 4 is characterized by this.

6. The detection sensitivity is set in multiple stages according to the detection distance at which the detection unit can detect a person, wherein the control unit When the false detection rate, which is the ratio of the cumulative number of detections of a person in the time period to the number of detections, is equal to or higher than a first reference value, change the detection sensitivity to a detection distance shorter than the set detection sensitivity. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

7. The control unit, When the false detection rate is less than a second reference value and the number of times image formation has been performed is equal to or more than a third reference value, change the detection sensitivity to a detection distance longer than the set detection sensitivity. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, characterized in that.

8. The detection sensitivity is set in multiple stages according to the detection distance at which the detection unit can detect a person, The control unit, When the number of detections is equal to or more than a fourth reference value and the detection time by the detection unit when reaching the fourth reference value is within a predetermined time from the first recording time of the number of detections related to the fourth reference value, change the detection sensitivity of the detection unit and update the setting information. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that.

9. At least a control method for an image forming apparatus capable of transitioning between a first state, which is an operating state in which image formation can be started, and a second state, which consumes less power than the first state, Store setting information in which the detection sensitivity of the detection unit is set according to the time period, Control the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the setting information, Calculate the number of detections by the detection unit for each time period when the detection unit detects a person and the operating state does not transition from the second state to the first state and image formation is not performed, and change the detection sensitivity of the detection unit based on the calculated number of detections and update the setting information. A control method for an image forming apparatus, characterized in that.

Images