Image forming device

Abstract

To provide an image forming device capable of easily setting a duration from when the device is transitioned into a stand-by state to when brought into an off-mode state.SOLUTION: An MFP1 is transitioned into a sleep state of consuming less power than in a stand-by state under a condition that a duration of more than T1 or T1+T2 elapses with the MFP1 maintained in the stand-by state since the MFP is brought into the stand-by state. The MFP1 is transitioned into an off-mode state of consuming less power than in the sleep state under a condition that a duration of more than T3 elapses with the MFP1 maintained in the stand-by state since the MFP is brought into the stand-by state, while the T1, T1+T2 and T3 can be respectively set based on operation by a user received through a user interface 38 or a network interface 40.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 3

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus with reduced power consumption.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, various means for reducing power consumption in an image forming apparatus for printing an image on a sheet as a printing object have been proposed. For example, in Japanese Patent No. 6409660, when the main power supply is turned on, the image forming unit, image reading unit, display unit, operation unit, modem unit, network communication unit, etc. shift to a standby state in which operating power is supplied. However, after shifting to the standby state, if there is no execution command for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, and a predetermined time T1 elapses, it is disclosed that the apparatus shifts to a sleep state with lower power consumption than the standby state.

[0003] This sleep state returns to the standby state when there is an execution command for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, and shifts to the execution state of image formation or image reading. On the other hand, it is also disclosed that if there is no execution command for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation after shifting to the sleep state, and a further predetermined time T2 elapses, the apparatus shifts to an off mode state with lower power consumption than the sleep state.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0004]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] In the above Patent Document 1, the time from the transition to the standby state until the off mode state with the least power consumption is the sum of the lengths of T1 and T2. Therefore, in order to set the time from the transition to the standby state until the off mode state to a desired length, it was necessary to individually set the times of T1 and T2 so that the sum of the lengths of T1 and T2 would be the desired length.

[0006] The present invention has been made to solve the above-mentioned conventional problems, and an object thereof is to provide an image forming apparatus that enables easy setting of the time from the transition to the standby state until the off mode state.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to the present application is an image forming apparatus including a user interface, a communication interface, a memory, and a controller, wherein the controller causes the image forming apparatus to enter a sleep state with less power consumption than the standby state on the condition that the standby state has continued for a first time or more after the image forming apparatus enters the standby state, and causes the image forming apparatus to enter an off mode state with even less power consumption than the sleep state on the condition that the standby state has continued for a second time or more after the image forming apparatus enters the standby state, and is capable of individually setting the first time and the second time based on an operation of a user received via the user interface or the communication interface, and stores the set first time and second time in the memory.

Effects of the Invention

[0008] The image forming apparatus according to the present application having the above configuration has a sleep state with less power consumption than the standby state and an off mode state with even less power consumption than the sleep state, and in addition to the time from the transition to the standby state until the sleep state, the time from the transition to the standby state until the off mode state can be individually set. As a result, state transition according to the intention of the user becomes possible easily.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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Embodiments for Carrying Out the Invention

[0010] Hereinafter, an embodiment in which the image forming apparatus according to the present application is embodied in an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral, also referred to as a multi-functional device) will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 shows a schematic configuration of the MFP1 of the present embodiment.

[0011] [Configuration of MFP] Here, the MFP1 of the present embodiment is a multi-functional device having a printing function, a copying function, a scanner function, a FAX transmission function, and a FAX reception function. However, the MFP1 does not necessarily have all of these functions, and may have only some of them. In the following description, the directions are described based on the user who uses the MFP1. That is, in FIG. 1, the front right side is defined as "front", the left rear side is defined as "rear", the diagonal right side is defined as "right", the diagonal left side is defined as "left", the upper side is defined as "upper", and the lower side is defined as "lower".

[0012] As shown in FIG. 1, the MFP1 includes a housing 11, an operation panel 12, a document table cover 13, an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) 14, paper feed trays 17, 18, a paper discharge tray 19, and a USB receptacle 20. The housing 11 is substantially box-shaped, and a document table cover 13 that covers a document table (not shown) is installed on the upper part. The document table cover 13 has a rotation axis (not shown) at the rear and can rotate upward. The MFP1 is provided with an image sensor (not shown) below the document table, and moves the image scanner relative to the document supported by the document table to read the document.

[0013] Here, the ADF 14 is installed on the upper left surface of the document table cover 13 and has an ADF cover 14a and an image scanner (not shown). The ADF cover 14a has a pivot shaft (not shown) at its right end and can pivot upward. The ADF cover 14a can be positioned at the closed position shown in FIG. 1 and at the open position where it pivots upward and is slightly inclined upward from the pivot shaft. The ADF cover 14a at the open position supports the document on its upper surface. The ADF 14 takes in the document supported by the ADF cover 14a at the open position from an opening (not shown), relatively moves the document with respect to the image scanner, reads the document, and discharges the document onto the upper surface of the document table cover 13.

[0014] The operation panel 12 is installed on the front side of the upper surface of the housing 11 and has physical operation buttons such as a numeric keypad (not shown) in addition to the touch panel 21. Also, a USB receptacle 20 is arranged on the front side of the operation panel 12. The USB receptacle 20 is a receptacle of the USB standard (female connector) and can connect a USB memory or a USB cable. Although not shown, the operation panel 12 also incorporates a communication module for communicating with a terminal (for example, a smartphone) by NFC (near field communication).

[0015] The paper feed trays 17 and 18 are detachably installed side by side vertically at the lower side of the front surface of the housing 11. The paper discharge tray 19 is installed recessed inward with respect to the front surface of the housing 11. Also, a paper feed unit (not shown), an image forming unit 35 (FIG. 2), and a discharge unit (not shown) are installed inside the housing 11. The sheet supported by the paper feed tray 17 or the paper feed tray 18 is conveyed to the image forming unit 35 by the paper feed unit. The image forming unit 35 forms an image on the sheet. The discharge unit discharges the sheet on which the image has been formed to the paper discharge tray 19. Assume that the paper feed tray 17 has, for example, A4-sized sheets and the paper feed tray 18 has, for example, B5-sized sheets.

[0016] Also, a power key 22 for switching the main power of the MFP1 on and off is arranged at a position operable by the user of the housing 11. In addition, in this embodiment, the power key 22 is also operated when returning from the off - mode state described later in addition to switching the main power of the MFP1 on and off.

[0017] [Electrical Configuration of MFP] Next, the electrical configuration of the MFP1 will be described with reference to FIG. 2. In addition to the configuration shown in FIG. 1, the MFP1 includes a controller 31, a low - voltage power supply 32, a power control unit 33, a memory 34, an image forming unit 35, an image reading unit 36, a FAX communication unit 37, a user interface 38, a USB interface 39, a network interface 40, an NFC module 41, and a sensor 42 for detecting the opening and closing of various covers and the presence or absence of sheets.

[0018] The controller 31 is composed of a CPU, an ASIC (abbreviation for Application Specific Integrated Circuit), etc. The memory 34, the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, the FAX communication unit 37, the user interface 38, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, the NFC module 41, and the sensor 42 are electrically connected to the controller 31. The controller 31 executes a program stored in the memory 34 and controls the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, etc. based on signals input from the user interface 38 and the network interface 40. Also, the controller 31 is electrically connected to the low - voltage power supply 32 via the power control unit 33.

[0019] Here, the low-voltage power supply 32 is a power supply that generates the operating voltage supplied to each unit such as the memory 34, the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, the FAX communication unit 37, the user interface 38, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, the NFC module 41, and the sensor 42 in addition to the controller 31. The low-voltage power supply 32 receives the supply of a voltage (for example, 100 V) from a commercial AC power supply in the operating state, and converts the voltage into a predetermined voltage (for example, 24 V) for the operating voltage. Note that the operating power to each unit except the controller 31 may be supplied directly from the low-voltage power supply 32 without passing through the controller 31, or may be supplied via the controller 31.

[0020] On the other hand, the power supply control unit 33 is a control unit for controlling the supply of the operating power from the low-voltage power supply 32 to each unit, and is a part of the controller that controls the MFP1 together with the controller 31. It is assumed that the power supply control unit 33 includes a processor different from the controller 31, but it may be a common processor. In particular, in the present embodiment, the power supply control unit 33 controls the supply of the operating voltage from the low-voltage power supply 32 to each unit according to the transition of the state of the MFP1. Details will be described later.

[0021] The memory 34 is an embedded memory, and may be configured by combining a ROM, a RAM, an NVRAM, an SSD, an HDD, etc. The ROM, RAM, and NVRAM included in the controller 31 and the power supply control unit 33, which are used when executing various programs, may also be regarded as a part of the memory 34.

[0022] Note that the memory 34 is an example of a storage medium readable by a controller (hereinafter referred to as a controller including the controller 31 and the power control unit 33). A storage medium readable by a controller is a non-transitory medium. Non-transitory media include, in addition to the above example, recording media such as CD-ROMs and DVD-ROMs. Also, non-transitory media are tangible media. On the other hand, an electrical signal that conveys a program downloaded from a server on the Internet or the like is a signal medium readable by a computer, which is a type of medium readable by a computer, but is not included in non-transitory computer-readable storage media.

[0023] The memory 34 stores a program executable by the controller. In the present embodiment, mainly, the processing of the controller according to the instructions described in the program is shown. That is, the processing such as "judgment", "selection", "calculation", "decision", "specification", "acquisition", "reception", "control", etc. in the following description represents the processing of the controller. Note that "acquisition" is used as a concept that does not require a request. That is, the process of receiving data without the controller requesting it is also included in the concept of "the controller acquires data". Also, the "data" in this specification is represented by a bit string readable by the controller. And data with the same substantial meaning content but different formats shall be treated as the same data. The same applies to the "information" in this specification.

[0024] Furthermore, in addition to the above program, the memory 34 also stores the currently received print job, the measured value obtained by measuring the elapsed time after transitioning to the standby state described later, the transition time setting to the sleep state, the transition time setting to the off mode state, etc.

[0025] The image forming unit 35 prints a color or monochrome image on a sheet by an electrophotographic method, for example, according to a print job. The image forming unit 35 includes four process cartridges corresponding to four colors of black, cyan, magenta, and yellow (not shown), an exposure unit, a transfer roller, a fixing unit, and the like. Each of the process cartridges includes a photosensitive drum, a developing roller, a toner storage chamber, etc. (not shown). The exposure unit forms an electrostatic latent image on the surface of the photosensitive drum. The developing roller supplies toner to the electrostatic latent image to form a toner image. The transfer roller transfers the toner image to the sheet. The fixing unit thermally fixes the toner to the sheet.

[0026] The image reading unit 36 reads an image of a document and generates read data by an image scanner under the document table or the image scanner included in the ADF 14.

[0027] The FAX communication unit 37 includes, for example, a DAA (Direct Access Arrangement) and a modem, and transmits and receives FAX data to and from other FAX communication devices via a telephone line (not shown) to which it is connected.

[0028] The user interface 38 is a touch panel 21 that also functions as a display. It is interposed between the user who operates the MFP1 and the controller, and functions as a user interface that provides various information to the user and accepts the user's operations. Note that the surface of the user interface 38 is a liquid crystal display. In particular, in this embodiment, it displays, for example, a "sleep setting screen" and an "off mode setting screen" which will be described later, and sets the time from the standby state to the sleep state and the time from the standby state to the off mode state. Also, with the user interface 38, the user can select various options, buttons, icons, objects, etc. displayed on the liquid crystal display using the touch panel. However, the user interface that accepts the user's operations is not limited to the touch panel and may be physical keys. That is, it may be equipped with a liquid crystal display and physical keys as the user interface. Also, the user interface 38 includes the power key 22 that is operated when switching the main power of the MFP1 on and off and when resuming from the off mode state as described above.

[0029] In this embodiment, for the sake of convenience, the objects operated and selected by the user who uses the MFP1 or the administrator who manages the MFP1 are described as "options", "buttons", "icons", "objects", etc., but they may be replaced with other words.

[0030] The USB interface 39 reads and writes data in accordance with the USB standard to a USB-compatible storage medium connected to the USB receptacle 20. The USB-compatible storage medium is, for example, a USB memory. It is also possible to connect to an external device (such as a PC or smartphone) via a USB cable. Furthermore, in addition to data transfer, it is possible to supply power to the device connected to the USB receptacle 20.

[0031] The network interface 40 is a network interface that connects the MFP 1 to a network either wirelessly or by wire. Examples of the types of networks include a wired LAN, a wireless LAN, WiFi (registered trademark), etc. Then, the MFP 1 can receive a print instruction (including image data to be printed) transmitted from a PC 50 which is a terminal connected to the same network via the network interface 40, and can execute printing according to the received print instruction. On the other hand, it is also possible to output the scan data scanned by the image reading unit 36 to the PC 50 via the network.

[0032] Furthermore, when the MFP setting application pre-installed in the PC 50 is launched, a setting screen is displayed on the display, and various settings regarding the MFP 1 can be made on the PC 50 side. Particularly in this embodiment, the time from the standby state to the transition to the sleep state and the time from the standby state to the transition to the off mode state can be set respectively. Note that the information set in the MFP setting application is transmitted to the MFP 1 via the network.

[0033] The NFC module 41 is a communication module equipped with an antenna for communicating with a device (such as a smartphone) having an IC chip corresponding to NFC. The NFC module 41 is built into, for example, the operation panel 12 (FIG. 1). When a device corresponding to NFC is brought close to the NFC module 41, communication is established with the device, and data communication by wireless communication becomes possible. By installing a dedicated application in advance in the device corresponding to NFC, it is also possible to give a print instruction via NFC.

[0034] On the other hand, the sensor 42 includes, for example, a sensor for detecting whether there is a document in the opening of the ADF 14, sensors for detecting sheets in the paper feed trays 17, 18, a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the platen cover 13, a sensor for detecting the opening and closing of the ADF cover 14a, etc., and outputs detection signals from each sensor to the controller 31.

[0035] The printing function in the MFP1 is, for example, a function of printing on a sheet by the image forming unit 35 the print job transmitted from a terminal such as a PC50 via the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41, the recorded data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 39, and the like. The copying function is, for example, a function of printing on a sheet by the image forming unit 35 the read data generated by the image reading unit 36. The scanning function is, for example, a function of transmitting the read data generated by the image reading unit 36 to, for example, a PC50 via the network interface 40 or writing it to a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 39. The FAX receiving function is a function of printing on a sheet by the image forming unit 35 the FAX received data received via the FAX communication unit 37, transmitting it to, for example, a PC50 via the network interface 40, or writing it to a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 39. The FAX transmitting function is, for example, a function of transmitting via the FAX communication unit 37 the read data generated by the image reading unit 36, the transmission data transmitted from a terminal such as a PC50 via the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41, or the recorded data read from a USB memory or the like via the USB interface 39.

[0036] [State Transition] Subsequently, the states to which the MFP1 can transition will be described with reference to FIG. 3. In the MFP1, as shown in FIG. 3, the power consumption state transitions according to the presence or absence of an execution instruction for image formation for the image forming unit 35, the presence or absence of an execution instruction for image reading for the image reading unit 36, the presence or absence of an operation of the user interface 38, the establishment of communication with an external device, and the like.

[0037] First, when the power key 22 is pressed (turned on) from the power-off state, the power consumption state of the MFP1 becomes the "standby state". In the "standby state", operating power is supplied from the low-voltage power supply 32 provided in the MFP1 to the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, the FAX communication unit 37, the user interface 38, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41. The "standby state" is a state of waiting for an execution command for image formation or image reading by a user operation of the user interface 38, and waiting for reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41. Since operating power is supplied to the image forming unit 35, when there is an execution command for image formation or reception of data related to image formation, it immediately shifts from the "standby state" to the execution state of image formation by the image forming unit 35. Also, since operating power is supplied to the image reading unit 36, when there is an execution command for image reading by the image reading unit 36, it immediately shifts from the "standby state" to the execution state of image reading by the image reading unit 36. After the execution of image formation or image reading is completed, the power consumption state returns to the "standby state". That is, the "standby state" is a state in which the main power supply of the MFP1 is turned on, and no execution command for image formation or image reading by a user operation of the user interface 38 is received, no instruction data related to image formation is received by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41, and neither image formation by the image forming unit 35 nor image reading by the image reading unit 36 is executed, and it is a state before shifting to the panel sleep state, the deep sleep state, and the off mode state described later. Note that the state in which a setting menu other than the standby screen is displayed on the user interface 38 or the state in which some error notification is being performed in the MFP1 may also be excluded from the "standby state".

[0038] Note that hereinafter, the supply of operating power from the low-voltage power supply 32 to each unit such as the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, the FAX communication unit 37, the user interface 38, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 and the state in which operating power is being supplied are expressed as "on", and the stop of the supply of operating power to each unit and the state in which the supply of operating power is stopped are expressed as "off".

[0039] In the "standby state", when there is no execution instruction for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, and a predetermined time T1 has elapsed since transitioning to the "standby state", the power consumption state transitions from the "standby state" to the "panel sleep state". Note that in the "panel sleep state", the liquid crystal display of the user interface 38 is turned off in particular. Therefore, the "panel sleep state" has lower power consumption than the "standby state".

[0040] And in the "panel sleep state", when there is no execution instruction for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, and a further predetermined time T2 has elapsed, the power consumption state transitions from the "panel sleep state" to the "deep sleep state". In the "deep sleep state", in addition to turning off the liquid crystal display, the image forming unit 35 and the image reading unit 36 are turned off. On the other hand, operation units such as the touch panel 21 in the user interface 38, the FAX communication unit 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 (i.e., means for receiving an execution instruction for image formation or image reading or data related to image formation) are maintained in the on state. Therefore, in the "deep sleep state", the user can issue an execution instruction for image formation or image reading using the touch panel 21 and can also receive data related to image formation from the outside. However, the FAX communication unit 37 transitions to a power-saving state. Further, clock reduction (clock down) of the CPU provided in the MFP1 is also performed. Therefore, the "deep sleep state" has even lower power consumption than the "standby state" and the "panel sleep state".

[0041] Note that the "panel sleep state" and the "deep sleep state" are collectively referred to as the "sleep state". Also, the predetermined times T1 and T1 + T2 correspond to the first time in the claims of the present application.

[0042] In this “sleep state (including the panel sleep state and the deep sleep state)”, when there is an execution instruction for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, the power consumption state returns from the “sleep state” to the “standby state”, and each part that was turned off is turned on. Then, it shifts from the standby state to the execution state of image formation or image reading.

[0043] On the other hand, in the “standby state”, when there is no execution instruction for image formation or image reading or reception of data related to image formation, and a predetermined time T3 has elapsed since shifting to the “standby state”, the power consumption state shifts to the “off mode state”. Note that since T3 is set independently of the above T1 and T2, the “off mode state” can shift from any of the “standby state”, “panel sleep state”, and “deep sleep state”. However, as an exception, in a state where communication is established with an external device, the above shift to the “sleep state” is performed, but the shift to the “off mode state” is not performed. Note that the state where communication is established with an external device corresponds to, for example, a state of being connected to a network such as LAN or WiFi, a state where a telephone line is connected to the modem of the FAX communication unit 37, a state where an external device is connected to the USB receptacle 20 via a USB memory or a USB cable, and a state where communication by the NFC module 41 is turned on. Whether communication is actually being performed with an external device or not, it suffices that the device is in a state where communication is possible.

[0044] Furthermore, in the "off mode state", in addition to each part that is turned off in the "deep sleep state", operation parts such as the touch panel 21 in the user interface 38, the FAX communication part 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 (that is, means for receiving an execution command for image formation or image reading or data related to image formation) are also turned off. Specifically, among the parts that are supplied with operating power from the low-voltage power supply 32, they are turned off except for the power control part 33 (however, the sensor that detects the pressing operation (turning on) of the power key 22 is in an active state). That is, in the "off mode state", the user cannot issue an execution command for image formation or image reading by the touch panel 21, nor can they receive data related to image formation from the outside. Since the power supply to the USB interface 39 stops, power supply to an external device connected to the USB receptacle 20 also becomes impossible. Instead, the "off mode state" has lower power consumption than the "deep sleep state" and becomes the state with the lowest power consumption (excluding when the main power is off).

[0045] Regarding the "off mode state", basically, it returns only when the power key 22 is pressed (turned on), and the power consumption state shifts from the "off mode state" to the "standby state".

[0046] [Control Processing by the Controller] Subsequently, among the various control processes executed by the controller of the MFP1 having the above configuration (hereinafter referred to as the controller including the controller 31 and the power control part 33), the control process particularly executed during the above state transition will be described based on FIG. 4. FIG. 4 is a flowchart of the main process of the MFP1. The main process is a process executed after the main power of the MFP1 is turned on. However, FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the process related to state transition in particular among the main processes. In addition, each process shown in the following FIGS. 4 to 7 as a flowchart is stored in the memory 34 provided in the MFP1 and is executed by the controller.

[0047] First, in step (hereinafter abbreviated as S) 1, when the power of the MFP1 is turned on, the controller performs a predetermined startup process. In the startup process, operating power is supplied from the low-voltage power supply 32 provided in the MFP1 to the image forming unit 35, the image reading unit 36, the FAX communication unit 37, the user interface 38, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41. As a result, the MFP1 shifts to the "standby state". Note that the "standby state" is a state in which the MFP1 waits for an execution command for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, and waits for reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41. Since operating power is supplied to the image forming unit 35, when there is an execution command for image formation or reception of data related to image formation, the MFP1 can immediately shift from the "standby state" to the execution state of image formation by the image forming unit 35. Also, since operating power is supplied to the image reading unit 36, when there is an execution command for image reading by the image reading unit 36, the MFP1 can immediately shift from the "standby state" to the execution state of image reading by the image reading unit 36. After the execution of image formation or image reading is completed, the power consumption state returns to the "standby state".

[0048] Subsequently, in S2, the controller initializes the timer (timer value = 0) and then starts measurement. The value measured by the timer is the elapsed time from the most recent transition to the "standby state" until the present. That is, for immediately after the main power is turned on, the elapsed time from when the main power is turned on and the MFP1 shifts to the standby state until the present is measured. On the other hand, when shifting from another state (execution state, panel sleep state, deep sleep state, off mode state) to the standby state, the elapsed time from the time of shifting from those other states to the standby state until the present is measured.

[0049] Next, in S3, the controller determines whether there is an execution command for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41.

[0050] When it is determined that there is an instruction to execute image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S3: YES), the process proceeds to the execution state of image formation by the image forming unit 35 or the execution state of image reading by the image reading unit 36 (S4). After the execution of image formation or image reading is completed, it returns to the "standby state", and after the timer is initialized, the measurement resumes.

[0051] On the other hand, when it is determined that there is neither an instruction to execute image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38 nor reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S3: NO), the process proceeds to S5.

[0052] In S5, the controller determines whether the current value of the timer is equal to or greater than T1 (the first hour). The timer value indicates the elapsed time from when the MFP1 entered the standby state as described above, and in S5, it is determined whether the image forming apparatus has elapsed T1 or more without executing image formation or image reading since it entered the standby state. T1 is an arbitrary time set based on the user's operation between 1 and 20 minutes in the sleep time setting process (FIGS. 9 and 13) described later, and the set value of T1 is stored in the memory 34.

[0053] When it is determined that the current value of the timer is equal to or greater than T1 (the first hour) (S5: YES), in S6, the controller performs the panel sleep transition process (FIG. 5) described later. As a result, the power consumption state of the MFP1 shifts from the "standby state" to the "panel sleep state". However, it is desirable not to shift to the "panel sleep state" when a setting menu other than the standby screen is displayed on the user interface 38 or when any error notification is being performed on the MFP1.

[0054] Next, in S7, the controller determines whether there is an execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or whether data related to image formation has been received by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41. Note that the "panel sleep state" is a state in which the liquid crystal display of the user interface 38 is particularly turned off, but operation units such as the touch panel 21 within the user interface 38, the FAX communication unit 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 (i.e., means for receiving an execution instruction for image formation or image reading or data related to image formation) remain on. Therefore, in the "panel sleep state", the user can issue an execution instruction for image formation or image reading using the touch panel 21, and can also receive data related to image formation from the outside.

[0055] And, when it is determined that there is an execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or data related to image formation has been received by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S7: YES), after returning to the "standby state" (S1), it shifts to the execution state of image formation by the image forming unit 35 or the execution state of image reading by the image reading unit 36 (S4).

[0056] On the other hand, when it is determined that there is neither an execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38 nor reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S7: NO), it shifts to S8.

[0057] In S8, the controller determines whether the current timer value has reached T1 + T2 (the first hour) or more, that is, whether T2 hours have elapsed without satisfying the release condition of the panel sleep state after shifting to the panel sleep state. Note that T1 + T2 is set to an arbitrary time between 1 and 50 minutes based on the user's operation in the sleep time setting process (FIGS. 9 and 13) described later, and the set value of T1 + T2 is stored in the memory 34.

[0058] And when it is determined that the current timer value has become equal to or greater than T1 + T2 (the first hour) (S8: YES), in S9, the controller performs the deep sleep transition process (FIG. 6) described below. As a result, the power consumption state of the MFP1 shifts from the "panel sleep state" to the "deep sleep state".

[0059] Next, in S10, the controller determines whether there has been an execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41. Note that in the "deep sleep state", in addition to the liquid crystal display of the user interface 38, the image forming unit 35 and the image reading unit 36 are also turned off, but operation units such as the touch panel 21 in the user interface 38, the FAX communication unit 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 (i.e., means for receiving an execution instruction for image formation or image reading or data related to image formation) remain on (however, the FAX communication unit 37 is in a power saving state). Therefore, in the "deep sleep state", the user can issue an execution instruction for image formation or image reading using the touch panel 21, and can also receive data related to image formation from the outside.

[0060] And when it is determined that there has been an execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, or reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S10: YES), after returning to the "standby state" (S1), it shifts to the execution state of image formation by the image forming unit 35 or the execution state of image reading by the image reading unit 36 (S4).

[0061] If it is determined that there is no execution instruction for image formation or image reading by a user operation on the user interface 38, nor reception of data related to image formation by the network interface 40 or the NFC module 41 (S10: NO), the process proceeds to S11.

[0062] In S11, the controller determines whether the current timer value has reached T3 (the second hour) or more. Note that the timer value indicates the elapsed time from when the MFP1 entered the standby state until now, as described above. In S11, it is determined whether T3 or more has elapsed without image formation or image reading being executed since the image forming apparatus entered the standby state. Note that T3 is set to 20 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, or off setting (not shifting to the off mode state regardless of the elapsed time) based on a user operation in the off mode time setting process (FIGS. 11 and 15) described later, and the set value of T3 is stored in the memory 34. However, as an exception, in a state where communication is established with an external device, the above-described transitions to the "panel sleep state" and "deep sleep state" are performed, but the transition to the "off mode state" is not performed. Whether or not communication is established with an external device is determined by a communication establishment state flag stored in the memory 34. Details of the communication establishment state flag will be described later (FIG. 8).

[0063] If it is determined that the current timer value has reached T3 (the second hour) or more (S11: YES), in S14, the controller performs an off mode transition process (FIG. 7) described later. As a result, the power consumption state of the MFP1 shifts to the "off mode state". On the other hand, if it is determined that the current timer value is less than T3 (the second hour) (S11: NO), the process returns to S10 and the deep sleep state continues.

[0064] Also, when it is determined in S5 that the current timer value is less than T1 (S5: NO), and when it is determined in S8 that the current timer value is less than T1 + T2 (S8: NO), the controller also determines whether the current timer value has reached T3 (second time) or more in the same manner as in S11 (S12, S13). Here, since T3 is set independently of T1 and T2 above, there is a possibility of transitioning from any of the "standby state", "panel sleep state", and "deep sleep state" to the "off mode state". Specifically, when comparing the longest set times of T1 and T1 + T2 (the upper limit of the time that can be set as T1 and T1 + T2, which is 20 minutes and 50 minutes in this embodiment) with the shortest set time of T3 (the lower limit of the time that can be set as T3, which is 20 minutes in this embodiment), if they are the same or the shortest set time of T3 is shorter, by setting T3 shorter than T1 and T1 + T2, it is also possible to directly transition from the standby state to the off mode state without entering the sleep state.

[0065] And when it is determined that the current timer value has reached T3 (second time) or more (S12: YES or S13: YES), in S14, the controller performs the off mode transition process (Fig. 7) described later. As a result, the power consumption state of the MFP1 transitions to the "off mode state". However, it is desirable not to transition to the "off mode state" when a setting menu other than the standby screen is being displayed on the user interface 38 or when any error notification is being made on the MFP1. On the other hand, when it is determined in S12 that the current timer value is less than T3 (second time) (S12: NO), it returns to S7 and the panel sleep state continues. Also, when it is determined in S13 that the current timer value is less than T3 (second time) (S13: NO), it returns to S3 and the standby state continues.

[0066] Further, in the "off mode state", in addition to the components that are turned off in the "deep sleep state", the operation units such as the touch panel 21 in the user interface 38, the FAX communication unit 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41 (i.e., means for receiving an execution command for image formation or image reading or data related to image formation) are also turned off. Therefore, the user cannot issue an execution command for image formation or image reading using the touch panel 21, nor can they receive data related to image formation from the outside. Once it shifts to the "off mode state", it basically resumes only when the power key 22 is pressed (turned on). That is, when the power key 22 is pressed (turned on), it returns to S1, and the power consumption state shifts from the "off mode state" to the "standby state".

[0067] Next, the panel sleep transition process executed in S6 will be described with reference to FIG. 5. FIG. 5 is a flowchart of the panel sleep transition process.

[0068] First, in S21, the power control unit 33 stops supplying operating power from the low-voltage power supply 32 to the user interface 38, particularly to the liquid crystal display. As a result, it will shift to the "panel sleep state". Note that in the "panel sleep state", the power consumption is lower than that in the "standby state" by stopping the power supply to the liquid crystal display.

[0069] Next, the deep sleep transition process executed in S9 will be described with reference to FIG. 6. FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the deep sleep transition process.

[0070] First, in S31, the power control unit 33 stops supplying operating power from the low-voltage power supply 32 to the image forming unit 35 and the image reading unit 36.

[0071] Furthermore, in S32, the power control unit 33 instructs the FAX communication unit 37 to shift to a power-saving state, and the FAX communication unit 37 shifts to the power-saving state.

[0072] Also, in S33, the power control unit 33 reduces (clock - downs) the clock of the CPU included in the MFP1. Note that the CPU whose clock is to be reduced may be a part or all of the CPUs included in the MFP1.

[0073] As described above, the MFP1 will shift to the "deep sleep state". Note that the "deep sleep state" has lower power consumption than the "standby state" and the "panel sleep state".

[0074] Next, the off - mode transition process executed in S14 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 is a flowchart of the off - mode transition process.

[0075] First, in S41, the power control unit 33 stops supplying operating power not only to each part that is turned off in the above - mentioned "deep sleep state", but also to operation parts such as the touch panel 21 in the user interface 38, the FAX communication unit 37, the USB interface 39, the network interface 40, and the NFC module 41. Specifically, among the parts that are supplied with operating power from the low - voltage power supply 32, except for the power control unit 33, they are turned off (however, the sensor that detects the pressing operation (turn - on) of the power key 22 remains in an active state).

[0076] As a result, the MFP1 will shift to the "off - mode state". Note that in the "off - mode state", the user cannot issue an execution command for image formation or image reading using the touch panel 21, nor can it receive data related to external image formation. Since the power supply to the USB interface 39 is stopped, power supply to an external device connected to the USB receptacle 20 also becomes impossible. Instead, the "off - mode state" has lower power consumption than the "deep sleep state" and is the state with the lowest power consumption (excluding the main power off).

[0077] Subsequently, in S42, the power control unit 33 detects whether the power key 22 has been pressed (turned on).

[0078] When it is determined that the power key 22 has been pressed (turned on) (S42: YES), the low-voltage power supply 32 supplies operating power to each part that was turned off in S41 (S43). As a result, the MFP1 returns to the "standby state". Thereafter, the process proceeds to S2.

[0079] On the other hand, when it is determined that the power key 22 has not been pressed (turned on) (S42: NO), the off-mode state is continued.

[0080] Subsequently, among the various control processes executed by the controller of the MFP1 having the above configuration (hereinafter referred to as the controller including the controller 31 and the power control unit 33), the control process executed to determine whether the MFP1 is in a state where communication has been established with an external device will be described with reference to FIG. 8. FIG. 8 is a flowchart of the communication establishment state determination process of the MFP1. Note that the communication establishment state determination process is executed in parallel with the main process of FIG. 4 when the MFP1 is in a state other than the "off-mode state". Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 8 below is stored in the memory 34 provided in the MFP1 and is executed by the controller.

[0081] First, in S51, the controller checks the network connection state in the network interface 40 and determines particularly whether it is connected to a wired LAN. Note that in S51, it does not matter whether communication is actually being performed using the wired LAN, as long as the state allows communication via the wired LAN (link-up).

[0082] Also, in S52, the controller checks the network connection state in the network interface 40 and determines particularly whether it is connected to a wireless LAN. Note that in S52, it does not matter whether communication is actually being performed using the wireless LAN, as long as the state allows communication via the wireless LAN (the wireless LAN is effectively set).

[0083] Also, in S53, the controller determines whether or not a telephone line is connected to the modem of the FAX communication unit 37. Specifically, if the switch side is powered on, it is considered connected, and if it is powered off, it is considered not connected.

[0084] Also, in S54, the controller checks the network connection status in the network interface 40 and particularly determines whether or not Wi-Fi Direct is set to be effective. Note that Wi-Fi Direct is a communication method that enables devices to communicate directly without going through an access point. In S54, regardless of whether communication is actually being performed using Wi-Fi Direct, it suffices that the device is in a state where communication using Wi-Fi Direct is possible.

[0085] Also, in S55, the controller checks the setting status of the NFC module 41 and particularly determines whether or not the NFC module 41 is set to be effective. Note that in S55, regardless of whether communication is actually being performed using NFC, it suffices that the device is in a state where communication using NFC is possible.

[0086] Also, in S56, the controller checks the connection status of the USB interface 39 and particularly determines whether or not an external device is connected to the USB receptacle 20 via a USB memory or a USB cable. Note that regardless of whether data communication is actually being performed via the USB interface 39, when an external device is connected via a USB cable, in addition to being physically connected, it is a condition for the communication to be established that the power of the external device is on (i.e., in an activated state). However, for an external device such as a card reader that does not have data stored in itself and is connected as a device for reading data from another storage medium, it is desirable to consider that the communication is not established unless there is a storage medium to be read.

[0087] When at least one of the conditions S51 to S56 is satisfied (any of S51 to S56 is YES), it is determined that MFP1 is in a state where communication has been established with an external device, and the communication establishment status flag stored in the memory 34 is read and "TRUE" is substituted (S57).

[0088] On the other hand, when none of the conditions S51 to S56 are satisfied (all of S51 to S56 are NO), it is determined that MFP1 is not in a state where communication has been established with an external device, and the communication establishment status flag stored in the memory 34 is read and "FALSE" is substituted (S58).

[0089] Note that the communication establishment status determination process shown in FIG. 8 is repeatedly executed at a predetermined time interval in parallel with the main process of FIG. 4 when MFP1 is in a state other than the "off mode state". Therefore, the communication establishment status flag is updated in real time based on the current communication status of MFP1.

[0090] Subsequently, among the various control processes executed by the controller of MFP1 (hereinafter referred to as the controller including the controller 31 and the power control unit 33), the control process related to setting the time until MFP1 transitions to the "panel sleep state" or "deep sleep state" will be described based on FIG. 9. FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the sleep transition time setting process of MFP1. Note that the sleep transition time setting process is executed when a predetermined operation is received on the standby screen displayed on the user interface 38 when MFP1 is in the standby state. Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 9 below is stored in the memory 34 provided in MFP1 and is executed by the controller.

[0091] First, in S61, the controller displays a sleep setting screen on the user interface 38. Here, when the MFP1 is in the "standby state" as shown in FIG. 10(A), a standby screen 101 is displayed on the user interface 38. As shown in FIG. 10(A), the standby screen 101 displays icons that are the operation targets when executing various functions executable on the MFP1. For example, an icon 102 that is operated when executing the fax function, an icon 103 that is operated when executing the copy function, and an icon 104 that is operated when executing the scanner function are displayed. Further, below each of the icons 102 to 104, setting icons 105 and the like that are operated when setting the time until transitioning to the "panel sleep state" or the "deep sleep state" are also displayed. As described above, the user interface 38 is a touch panel having a function as a display, and the user can select and operate each icon (option) displayed on the standby screen 101 by a touch operation. When the user particularly selects and operates the setting icon 105 on the standby screen 101, a setting item screen 106 is displayed on the user interface 38 as shown in FIG. 10(B). The setting item screen 106 includes a sleep setting icon 107 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the sleep state, and an off-mode setting icon 108 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the off-mode state. When the user particularly selects and operates the sleep setting icon 107 on the setting item screen 106, a sleep setting screen 110 is displayed on the user interface 38 as shown in FIG. 10(C).

[0092] The sleep setting screen 110 includes a numeric keypad 111 for entering numbers, a cancel key 112, and an OK key 113, and the numbers entered using the numeric keypad 111 are displayed on the screen. The user can directly input the time T1 from the "standby state" to the "panel sleep state" and the time T1 + T2 from the "standby state" to the "deep sleep state" using the numeric keypad 111 respectively. However, it is also possible to input T2 instead of T1 + T2. Alternatively, T2 can be a fixed time (for example, 30 minutes), and only T1 can be input. Basically, T1 can be input in 1-minute units from 1 to 20 minutes, and T1 + T2 can be input in 1-minute units from 1 to 50 minutes. In addition, in this embodiment, only values equal to or greater than T1 can be input for T1 + T2, but values smaller than T1 can also be input for T1 + T2. In that case, the MFP1 will only transition from the "standby state" to the "deep sleep state" and will not transition to the "panel sleep state."

[0093] And when the cancel key 112 is operated before the OK key 113 is operated on the sleep setting screen 110 (S62: YES), the controller ends the sleep transition time setting process. In that case, the values of T1 and T1 + T2 are not updated, and the past set values continue to be applied.

[0094] On the other hand, when the OK key 113 is operated on the sleep setting screen 110 (S63: YES), the controller further determines whether the user has input valid set values for T1 and T1 + T2 using the numeric keypad 111 at the time when the OK key 113 is operated (S64). Specifically, T1 in 1-minute units from 1 to 20 minutes and T1 + T2 in 1-minute units from 1 to 50 minutes are set as valid set values, but the range can be changed as appropriate.

[0095] When it is determined that the user is inputting valid setting values for T1 and T1+T2 using the numeric keypad 111 when the OK key 113 is operated (S64: YES), the process proceeds to S65. On the other hand, when it is determined that the user is not inputting valid setting values for T1 and T1+T2 using the numeric keypad 111 when the OK key 113 is operated (S64: NO), the value input by the user is not validated, the sleep setting screen 110 is continuously displayed, and the user is prompted to input a valid setting value. Note that a warning indicating that a valid setting value has not been input may be displayed.

[0096] In S65, the controller 31 determines whether the value input by the user for either T1 or T1+T2 (or both) is 20 minutes (the first reference time) or less.

[0097] When it is determined that the value input by the user for both T1 and T1+T2 is 20 minutes or less (S65: YES), the value input by the user is validated as the new setting value for T1 and T1+T2 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S66).

[0098] On the other hand, when it is determined that the value input by the user for at least one of T1 and T1+T2 is greater than 20 minutes (S65: NO), a warning screen 115 for warning the user is displayed as shown in (D) of FIG. 10. On the warning screen 115, a warning message 116 warning that a sufficient power saving effect cannot be obtained with the current settings is displayed. Furthermore, the warning screen 115 also includes a cancel key 117 and an OK key 118. When the user operates the OK key 118 after confirming the warning content (S68: YES), the warning screen 115 is erased (S69), and the value input by the user is validated as the new setting value for T1 and T1+T2 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S66). On the other hand, when the user operates the cancel key 117 after confirming the warning content, the process returns to the sleep setting screen 110 in (C) of FIG. 10.

[0099] Next, among the various control processes executed by the controller of the MFP1 (hereinafter referred to as the controller, including the controller 31 and the power control unit 33), the control process related to the setting of the time until the MFP1 shifts to the "off mode state" will be described with reference to FIG. 11. FIG. 11 is a flowchart of the off-mode transition time setting process of the MFP1. Note that the off-mode transition time setting process is executed when a predetermined operation is received on the standby screen displayed on the user interface 38 when the MFP1 is in the standby state. Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 11 below is stored in the memory 34 provided in the MFP1 and is executed by the controller.

[0100] First, in S71, the controller displays an off-mode setting screen on the user interface 38. Here, when the MFP1 is in the "standby state" as shown in FIG. 12(A), a standby screen 101 is displayed on the user interface 38. As shown in FIG. 12(A), the standby screen 101 displays icons that are the operation targets when executing various functions executable on the MFP1. For example, an icon 102 that is operated when executing the fax function, an icon 103 that is operated when executing the copy function, and an icon 104 that is operated when executing the scanner function are displayed. Further, below each of the icons 102 to 104, setting icons 105 and the like that are operated when setting the time until transitioning to the "off-mode state" are also displayed. As described above, the user interface 38 is a touch panel having a function as a display, and the user can select and operate each icon (option) displayed on the standby screen 101 by a touch operation. When the user particularly selects and operates the setting icon 105 on the standby screen 101, a setting item screen 106 is displayed on the user interface 38 as shown in FIG. 12(B). The setting item screen 106 includes a sleep setting icon 107 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the sleep state, and an off-mode setting icon 108 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the off-mode state. When the user particularly selects and operates the off-mode setting icon 108 on the setting item screen 106, an off-mode setting screen 120 is displayed on the user interface 38 as shown in FIG. 12(C).

[0101] On the off-mode setting screen 120, a plurality of types of selectable times are displayed on the screen as a pull-down list 121. The user can select the time T3 from the "standby state" to the "off-mode state" using the pull-down list 121. Specifically, any one of 20 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, and 8 hours can be selected, and there is also an off setting (not transitioning to the off-mode state regardless of the elapsed time). The off-mode setting screen 120 also includes a cancel key 122 and an OK key 123.

[0102] And when the controller determines that the cancel key 122 has been operated before the OK key 123 is operated on the off-mode setting screen 120 (S72: YES), the controller ends the off-mode transition time setting process. In that case, the value of T3 is not updated, and the past set value continues to be applied.

[0103] On the other hand, when the controller determines that the OK key 123 has been operated on the off-mode setting screen 120 (S73: YES), the controller further determines whether the time of T3 selected by the user in the pull-down list 121 at the time when the OK key 123 is operated in S74 is 20 minutes (second reference time) or less. Note that for the off setting, T3 = ∞, that is, it is considered to be greater than 20 minutes.

[0104] When it is determined that the time of T3 selected by the user is 20 minutes or less (S74: YES), the time selected by the user is made valid as the new set value of T3 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S75).

[0105] On the other hand, when it is determined that the time of T3 selected by the user is greater than 20 minutes (S74: NO), a warning screen 115 for warning the user is displayed as shown in (D) of FIG. 12. A warning message 116 warning that a sufficient power saving effect cannot be obtained with the current setting is displayed on the warning screen 115. Further, the warning screen 115 also includes a cancel key 117 and an OK key 118. When the user operates the OK key 118 after confirming the warning content (S77: YES), the warning screen 115 is erased (S78), and the time selected by the user is made valid as the new set value of T3 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S75). On the other hand, when the user operates the cancel key 117 after confirming the warning content, the process returns to the off-mode setting screen 120 of (C) in FIG. 12.

[0106] Next, among the various control processes executed by the control unit of an external terminal (hereinafter referred to as PC50) that is communicably connected to the MFP1, the control process related to setting the time until the MFP1 transitions to the "panel sleep state" or "deep sleep state" will be described with reference to FIG. 13. FIG. 13 is a flowchart of the sleep transition time setting process by the PC50. Note that the sleep transition time setting process is executed after starting the MFP setting application pre-installed in the PC50. Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 13 below is stored in the memory provided in the PC50 and is executed by the control unit of the PC50. Also, the connection means between the MFP1 and the PC50 may be any means as long as it can transmit and receive data, such as a wireless LAN, a wired LAN, or a USB connection.

[0107] First, in S81, the PC control unit determines whether or not the administrator has logged in. Here, as shown in FIG. 14(A), when the MFP setting application is started on the PC50, first, a login screen 151 is displayed on the display 150. The user enters the pre-set login ID using a keyboard or the like and then operates the login key 152, enabling the administrator to log in. When the administrator's login is successfully performed (S81: YES), a setting item screen 155 is displayed on the display 150 as shown in FIG. 14(B). The setting item screen 155 includes a sleep setting icon 156 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the sleep state, and an off-mode setting icon 157 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the off-mode state. When the user selects and operates the sleep setting icon 156 on the setting item screen 155, a sleep setting screen 160 is displayed on the display 150 as shown in FIG. 14(C) (S82).

[0108] The sleep setting screen 160 includes a display unit 161 that displays the numbers input using a keyboard or the like, a cancel key 162, and a Submit key 163. The user can directly input the time T1 from the "standby state" to the "panel sleep state" and the time T1 + T2 from the "standby state" to the "deep sleep state" using a keyboard or the like. However, it is also possible to input T2 instead of T1 + T2. Alternatively, T2 can be a fixed time (for example, 30 minutes), and only T1 can be input. Basically, T1 can be input in 1-minute units from 1 to 20 minutes, and T1 + T2 can be input in 1-minute units from 1 to 50 minutes. However, as described later, even if a value larger than 20 minutes is input, it cannot be set. In this embodiment, T1 + T2 can only input a value equal to or larger than T1. However, it is also possible to allow input of a value smaller than T1 for T1 + T2. In that case, the MFP1 will only transition from the "standby state" to the "deep sleep state" and will not transition to the "panel sleep state".

[0109] Then, the PC control unit determines whether the Submit key 163 has been operated on the sleep setting screen 160 (S83). If the Submit key 163 has been operated (S83: YES), it further determines whether the user has input valid setting values for T1 and T1 + T2 using a keyboard or the like at the time when the Submit key 163 was operated (S84). Specifically, T1 is set to a valid setting value in 1-minute units from 1 to 20 minutes, and T1 + T2 is set to a valid setting value in 1-minute units from 1 to 50 minutes. However, the range can be changed as appropriate.

[0110] When it is determined that the user is entering valid setting values for T1 and T1 + T2 using a keyboard or the like at the time when the Submit key 163 is operated (S84: YES), the process proceeds to S85. On the other hand, when it is determined that the user is not entering valid setting values for T1 and T1 + T2 using a keyboard or the like at the time when the Submit key 163 is operated (S84: NO), a warning indicating that the setting update has failed is displayed (S88), and then the sleep transition time setting process ends.

[0111] In S85, the PC control unit determines whether the values input by the user for either T1 or T1 + T2 are 20 minutes (the first reference time) or less.

[0112] When it is determined that the values input by the user for both T1 and T1 + T2 are 20 minutes or less (S85: YES), the values input by the user are made valid as the new setting values for T1 and T1 + T2, and the new setting values for T1 and T1 + T2 are transmitted to the MFP1 via the communication means (LAN or the like). Then, the MFP1 stores (updates) the received setting values for T1 and T1 + T2 in the memory 34 (S86). On the other hand, the display of the PC50 displays that the update of T1 and T1 + T2 has been successful (S87).

[0113] On the other hand, when it is determined that the value input by the user for at least one of T1 and T1 + T2 is greater than 20 minutes (S85: NO), a warning indicating that the setting update has failed is displayed (S88), and then the sleep transition time setting process ends. That is, in the present embodiment, when setting the time until the MFP1 transitions to the "panel sleep state" or "deep sleep state", a time longer than 20 minutes can be set only by operating the operation panel of the MFP1 main body (i.e., the user operation received via the user interface 38 of the MFP1), and only a setting of 20 minutes or less can be made by operating an external device connected to the MFP1 (i.e., the user operation received via the network interface 40).

[0114] Next, among the various control processes executed by the control unit of an external terminal (hereinafter referred to as PC50) that is also communicably connected to the MFP1, the control process related to the setting of the time until the MFP1 transitions to the "off mode state" will be described based on FIG. 15. FIG. 15 is a flowchart of the off-mode transition time setting process by the PC50. Note that the off-mode transition time setting process is executed after starting the MFP setting application pre-installed in the PC50. Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 15 below is stored in the memory provided in the PC50 and is executed by the control unit of the PC50. Also, the connection means between the MFP1 and the PC50 may be any means as long as data can be transmitted and received, such as a wireless LAN, a wired LAN, or a USB connection.

[0115] First, in S91, the PC control unit determines whether or not an administrator has logged in. Here, as shown in FIG. 16(A), when the MFP setting application is started on the PC50, first, a login screen 151 is displayed on the display 150. The user inputs a preset login ID using a keyboard or the like and then operates the login key 152, enabling an administrator to log in. When the administrator's login is successfully performed (S91: YES), a setting item screen 155 is displayed on the display 150 as shown in FIG. 16(B). The setting item screen 155 includes a sleep setting icon 156 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the sleep state and an off-mode setting icon 157 that is operated when setting the time until transitioning to the off-mode state. When the user particularly selects and operates the off-mode setting icon 157 on the setting item screen 155, an off-mode setting screen 170 is displayed on the display 150 as shown in FIG. 16(C) (S92).

[0116] On the off - mode setting screen 170, multiple types of time as selection candidates are displayed on the screen as a pull - down list 171. The user can select the time T3 from the standby state to the off - mode state using the pull - down list 171. Specifically, 20 minutes, 1 hour, 2 hours, 4 hours, 8 hours, and off setting (not transitioning to the off - mode state regardless of the elapsed time) exist as selection candidates, but numerical values greater than 20 minutes are displayed in grayscale, and although they exist as selection candidates, they cannot be selected. Also, the off - mode setting screen 170 includes a cancel key 172 and a Submit key 173.

[0117] Then, the PC control unit determines whether the Submit key 173 has been operated on the off - mode setting screen 170 (S93). If the Submit key 173 has been operated (S93: YES), then, in S94, it further determines whether the time T3 selected by the user in the pull - down list 171 at the time when the Submit key 173 was operated is 20 minutes (the second reference time) or less. Note that for the off setting, T3 = ∞, that is, it is considered to be greater than 20 minutes.

[0118] If it is determined that the time T3 selected by the user is 20 minutes or less (S94: YES), the time selected by the user is made valid as the new set value of T3, and the new set value of T3 is transmitted to the MFP1 via communication means (such as LAN). Then, the MFP1 stores (updates) the received set value of T3 in the memory 34 (S95). On the other hand, the display of the PC50 displays that the update of T3 has been successful (S96).

[0119] On the other hand, when it is determined that the time of T3 selected by the user is greater than 20 minutes (S94: NO), a warning indicating that the update of the setting has failed is displayed (S97), and then the off-mode transition time setting process is terminated. That is, in this embodiment, when setting the time until the MFP1 transitions to the "off-mode state", a time longer than 20 minutes can only be set through the operation panel of the MFP1 main body (i.e., the user operation received via the user interface 38 of the MFP1), and only a setting of 20 minutes or less can be made through the operation of an external device connected to the MFP1 (i.e., the user operation received via the network interface 40).

[0120] Subsequently, among the various control processes executed by the controller of the MFP1 (hereinafter referred to as the controller including the controller 31 and the power control unit 33), particularly, based on the PJL (Printer Job Language) instruction command received from an external terminal (e.g., a PC) communicably connected to the MFP1, the control process for setting the time until the MFP1 transitions to each of the "panel sleep state", "deep sleep state", and "off-mode state" will be described with reference to FIG. 17. FIG. 17 is a flowchart of the command reception process of the MFP1. Note that the command reception process is executed when the MFP1 is in a state other than the "off-mode state". Note that each process shown in the flowchart in FIG. 17 below is stored in the memory 34 provided in the MFP1 and is executed by the controller.

[0121] First, in S101, the controller determines whether it has received a PJL instruction command from an external terminal (e.g., a PC) communicably connected to the MFP1. Note that the connection means between the MFP1 and the external terminal may be any means as long as data can be transmitted and received, such as a wireless LAN, a wired LAN, or a USB connection.

[0122] When it is determined that a PJL instruction command has been received from an external terminal communicably connected to the MFP1 (S101: YES), the process proceeds to S102. On the other hand, when it is determined that a PJL instruction command has not been received from an external terminal communicably connected to the MFP1 (S101: NO), the system waits until a command is received.

[0123] Next, in S102, the controller determines whether the PJL instruction command received from the external terminal is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "panel sleep state" or the "deep sleep state".

[0124] When it is determined that the PJL instruction command received from the external terminal is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "panel sleep state" or the "deep sleep state" (S102: YES), the process proceeds to S103. Incidentally, when the PJL instruction command is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "panel sleep state" or the "deep sleep state", the instruction command includes information specifying the time T1 from the "standby state" to the "panel sleep state" and the time T1 + T2 from the "standby state" to the "deep sleep state".

[0125] In S103, the controller determines whether either of the specified T1 and T1 + T2 in the received instruction command is 20 minutes or less.

[0126] When it is determined that both T1 and T1 + T2 are 20 minutes or less (S103: YES), the values specified in the instruction command are made valid as the new set values for T1 and T1 + T2 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S104).

[0127] On the other hand, if it is determined that at least one of T1 and T1+T2 is greater than 20 minutes (S103: NO), the instruction command is discarded and the command reception process is terminated. That is, in the present embodiment, when setting the time until the MFP1 transitions to the "panel sleep state" or "deep sleep state", a time longer than 20 minutes can be set only by the operation panel of the MFP1 main body (i.e., the user operation received via the user interface 38 of the MFP1), and only a setting of 20 minutes or less can be made by the operation of an external device connected to the MFP1 (i.e., the user operation received via the network interface 40).

[0128] On the other hand, in S105, the controller determines whether the received PJL instruction command from the external terminal is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "off mode state".

[0129] If it is determined that the received PJL instruction command from the external terminal is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "off mode state" (S105: YES), the process proceeds to S106. Note that when the PJL instruction command is a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "off mode state", the instruction command includes information specifying the time T3 from the "standby state" to the "off mode state".

[0130] On the other hand, if it is determined that the received PJL instruction command from the external terminal is not a command for setting the time until transitioning to the "off mode state" (S105: NO), after executing other processes corresponding to the content of the received command, the command reception process is terminated.

[0131] In S106, the controller determines whether T3 specified in the received instruction command is 20 minutes or less.

[0132] And when it is determined that T3 is 20 minutes or less (S106: YES), the value specified by the instruction command is made valid as the new set value of T3 and stored (updated) in the memory 34 (S107).

[0133] On the other hand, when it is determined that T3 is greater than 20 minutes (S106: NO), the instruction command is discarded and the command reception process is terminated. That is, in this embodiment, when setting the time until the MFP1 shifts to the "off mode state", a time longer than 20 minutes can only be set by operating the operation panel of the MFP1 main body (i.e., the user operation received via the user interface 38 of the MFP1), and only a setting of 20 minutes or less can be made by operating an external device connected to the MFP1 (i.e., the user operation received via the network interface 40).

[0134] As described in detail above, in the MFP1 according to this embodiment, the MFP1 shifts from the standby state to the sleep state with less power consumption than the standby state on the condition that the standby state has continued for T1 or T1 + T2 or more after the MFP1 enters the standby state (S6, S9), and the MFP1 shifts from the sleep state to the off mode state with even less power consumption than the sleep state on the condition that the standby state has continued for T3 or more after the MFP1 enters the standby state (S14). On the other hand, based on the user operation received via the user interface 38 or the network interface 40, T1, T1 + T2, and T3 can be individually set (S61 to S69, S71 to S78, S81 to S88, S91 to S97, S101 to S107). Therefore, compared with the prior art, the time from when the MFP1 enters the standby state until it enters the off mode state can be easily set, and a state transition according to the user's intention becomes possible. Furthermore, it further includes an image forming unit 35 that performs image formation based on a user operation received via the user interface 38 or instruction data received by the network interface 40. When the main power is on, reception of instruction data via the network interface 40, reception of a user operation by the user interface 38, and image formation by the image forming unit 35 are not executed, and the state before transitioning to the sleep state and the off mode state is defined as the standby state. Therefore, when the state where no execution instruction for image formation and no reception of data related to image formation continue for a long time despite the main power being on, it is possible to reduce power consumption by transitioning to the sleep state or the off mode state. Also, a range of time that can be set as T1 and T1 + T2 and a range of time that can be set as T3 are respectively defined. When comparing the upper limit of the time that can be set as T1 and T1 + T2 with the lower limit of the time that can be set as T3, if they are the same or the lower limit of the time that can be set as T3 is shorter, it is possible to transition to the off mode state without going through the sleep state, and it is possible to further reduce power consumption. Also, the sleep state includes at least a panel sleep state in which power consumption is suppressed by stopping power supply to the display, and a deep sleep state in which power supply stop targets are increased compared to the panel sleep state to further suppress power consumption. When the MFP1 transitions to the sleep state, it first transitions to the panel sleep state (S6), and then, after T2 has elapsed without satisfying the release condition of the panel sleep state, it transitions to the deep sleep state (S9). Therefore, by gradually transitioning the sleep state to a state with less power consumption over time, it is possible to further reduce power consumption. Also, when a time longer than a first reference time (for example, 20 minutes) is set as T1 and T1 + T2, a warning is given to the user who performed the operation of setting T1 and T1 + T2 (S67). Therefore, it is possible to encourage the user to use the device with power saving in mind. Also, when setting T1 and T1+T2 based on the user operation received via the user interface 38, it is possible to set a time longer than the first reference time. On the other hand, when setting T1 and T1+T2 based on the user operation received via the network interface 40, only a time equal to or shorter than the first reference time can be set. Thus, while prompting the user to set a time equal to or shorter than the first reference time, it is also possible to set a time longer than the first reference time when the user strongly desires it. Also, when a time longer than the second reference time (e.g., 20 minutes) is set as T3, a warning is given to the user who performed the operation of setting T3 (S76). Thus, it is possible to prompt the user to use the device with power saving in mind. Also, when setting T3 based on the user operation received via the user interface 38, it is possible to set a time longer than the second reference time. On the other hand, when setting T3 based on the user operation received via the network interface 40, only a time equal to or shorter than the second reference time can be set. Thus, while prompting the user to set a time equal to or shorter than the second reference time, it is also possible to set a time longer than the second reference time when the user strongly desires it. Also, different conditions are set for the condition to release the sleep state and the condition to release the off-mode state. The condition to release the off-mode state is the operation of the power key 22 provided on the MFP1. Thus, it is possible to prevent the off-mode state from being easily released and further reduce power consumption. Also, in a state where communication is established between the MFP1 and an external device, the transition to the sleep state is performed but the transition to the off-mode state is not performed. Thus, for example, it is possible to prevent a situation where the device transitions to the off-mode state while communicating with or attempting to communicate with an external device, resulting in the inability to communicate with the external device.

[0135] Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it goes without saying that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. For example, in this embodiment, there are "panel sleep state" and "deep sleep state" as sleep states, but only one of them may be used as the sleep state. Further, in the "panel sleep state", only the liquid crystal display of the user interface 38 is turned off, but members other than the liquid crystal display may also be turned off.

[0136] Also, in the above embodiment, the range of the time that can be set as T1 is 1 to 20 minutes, the range of the time that can be set as T1 + T2 is 1 to 50 minutes, and the range of the time that can be set as T3 is 20 minutes to 8 hours. However, when comparing the upper limit of the time that can be set as T1 and T1 + T2 with the lower limit of the time that can be set as T3, if they are the same or the lower limit of the time that can be set as T3 is shorter, each settable time range can be appropriately changed.

[0137] Also, in the above embodiment, a multifunction peripheral having a fax function, a copy function, and a scanner function in addition to a printer function is described as an example of the image forming apparatus. However, for example, a printer having only a printer function may be used.

Explanation of Reference Numerals

[0138] 1... MFP (image forming apparatus), 31... controller, 32... low voltage power supply, 33... power control unit, 34... memory, 35... image forming unit, 36... image reading unit, 37... FAX communication unit, 38... user interface, 39... USB interface, 40... network interface, 41... NFC module, 110... sleep setting screen, 115... warning screen, 120... off mode setting screen

Claims

1. An image forming apparatus including a user interface, a communication interface, a memory, and a controller, wherein the controller, shifts the image forming apparatus from the standby state to a sleep state with less power consumption than the standby state, on the condition that the standby state has continued for a first time or longer after the image forming apparatus enters the standby state; shifts the image forming apparatus from the sleep state to an off mode state with even less power consumption than the sleep state, on the condition that the standby state has continued for a second time or longer after the image forming apparatus enters the standby state; the first time and the second time can be individually set based on an operation of a user received via the user interface or the communication interface, and the set first time and second time are stored in the memory, the image forming apparatus being characterized by this.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an image forming unit that performs image formation based on an operation of a user received via the user interface or instruction data received by the communication interface, wherein the standby state is a state in which the main power is on, reception of instruction data via the communication interface, reception of an operation of a user by the user interface, and image formation by the image forming unit are not executed, and which is a state before shifting to the sleep state and the off mode state.

3. A range of time that can be set as the first time and a range of time that can be set as the second time are respectively defined, the image forming apparatus according to claim 1, characterized in that when comparing an upper limit of the time that can be set as the first time and a lower limit of the time that can be set as the second time, they are the same or the lower limit of the time that can be set as the second time is shorter.

4. the user interface includes a display for displaying information, the sleep state includes a panel sleep state in which power consumption is suppressed by stopping power supply to at least the display, and a deep sleep state in which power supply stop targets are increased compared to the panel sleep state to further suppress power consumption, wherein the controller, When shifting the image forming apparatus to the sleep state, first shift to the panel sleep state, and then, without satisfying the release condition of the panel sleep state, after a certain period of time has elapsed, shift to the deep sleep state. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, characterized in that.

5. The controller is When a time longer than the first reference time is set as the first time, a warning is given to the user who performed the operation of setting the first time. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

6. The controller is When setting the first time based on a user operation received via the user interface, a time longer than the first reference time can also be set, while When setting the first time based on a user operation received via the communication interface, only a time equal to or less than the first reference time can be set. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5, characterized in that.

7. The controller is When a time longer than the second reference time is set as the second time, a warning is given to the user who performed the operation of setting the second time. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

8. The controller is When setting the second time based on a user operation received via the user interface, a time longer than the second reference time can also be set, while When setting the second time based on a user operation received via the communication interface, only a time equal to or less than the second reference time can be set. The image forming apparatus according to claim 7, characterized in that.

9. The release condition of the sleep state and the release condition of the off mode state are set to different conditions, The release condition of the off mode state is characterized in that an operation of a power key provided on the image forming apparatus is a condition. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

10. The controller is In a state where communication is established between the image forming apparatus and an external device, the shift to the sleep state is performed, but the shift to the off mode state is not performed. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3.

Images