Power supply control device, electronic apparatus with power supply control device, and control method for power supply control device

Abstract

To solve the problem that it is necessary to continuously supply a power source from a sub power source to a mode control circuit at all the time since a power supply circuit is controlled by a mode control circuit conventionally, so that depression of a power key is detected in an off state of a device main body.SOLUTION: A power supply control device comprises power source means which outputs a power source, and stores information for controlling the output of the power source means. When input of a shift signal for shifting a supply state of the power source is detected, the output of the power source from the power source means is controlled on the basis of the stored information.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 2

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a power supply control device, an electronic device having the power supply control device, and a control method for the power supply control device. [Background technology]

[0002] Electronic devices such as printers typically have an off state in which they are on standby, waiting for a power key operation, and an on state in which they are capable of normal operation. In the on state, the necessary power is supplied to each component of the electronic device to ensure proper operation. On the other hand, in the off state, it is required to operate with the minimum power consumption possible.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a control circuit that includes a power supply circuit that receives power from a switching power supply and outputs DC power, and a mode control circuit that operates by receiving power from a sub-power supply. This control circuit controls mode switching of the switching power supply using the mode control circuit, and achieves power saving control by sending a disable signal to the power supply circuit if the voltage does not fall below a set voltage even when switching modes. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2021-118666 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] However, in the above-mentioned conventional technology, because the power supply circuit is controlled by the mode control circuit, it is necessary to continuously supply power from the sub-power supply to the mode control circuit in order to detect when the power key is pressed while the device main body is in the off state. Therefore, even when the switching power supply is in the off state, power is consumed by the sub-power supply, and further reduction in power consumption is required.

[0006] An object of the present invention is to provide a technology for performing power saving control to reduce power consumption. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] In order to achieve the above object, a power supply control device according to one aspect of the present invention has the following configuration: power supply means for outputting power; a storage means for storing information for controlling the output of the power supply means; a detection means for detecting an input of a transition signal that causes a transition of a power supply state; and control means for controlling the power output from the power supply means based on the information stored in the memory means when the detection means detects the input of the transition signal. [Effects of the Invention]

[0008] According to the present invention, there is an effect that power saving control can be performed to suppress power consumption.

[0009] Other features and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the following description taken in conjunction with the accompanying drawings, in which the same or similar elements are designated by the same reference numerals. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0010] The accompanying drawings, which are incorporated in and constitute a part of the specification, illustrate embodiments of the invention and, together with the description, serve to explain the principles of the invention. [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is an external perspective view of a recording apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a power supply control IC according to an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a main control and power supply control IC in the printing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 4]6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a state transition of the printing apparatus when external power is supplied to the printing apparatus according to the embodiment. [Figure 5] 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing when the recording apparatus according to the embodiment transitions from an operable state to a standby state. [Figure 6] 5A and 5B are sequence diagrams illustrating the sequence when the printing apparatus according to the embodiment is turned on and when the printing apparatus is turned off. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. It should be noted that the following embodiments do not limit the scope of the invention claimed. Although the embodiments describe multiple features, not all of these features are necessarily essential to the invention, and multiple features may be combined in any desired manner. Furthermore, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are used to designate identical or similar components, and redundant explanations will be omitted. In the following description, an example of an electronic device according to the present invention will be described using a printing apparatus that uses an inkjet printing method, but the present invention is not limited to this.

[0012] First, the terms used in this embodiment are defined as follows. ·"record" In this specification, "recording" does not only refer to the formation of meaningful information such as characters or figures, but also to the formation of images, designs, patterns, etc. on a recording medium, or the processing of a medium, regardless of whether the information is meaningful or insignificant, or whether it is visible to humans or not. "Recording media" The term "recording medium" refers not only to paper used in general recording devices, but also to a wide range of materials that can accept ink, such as cloth, plastic film, metal plates, glass, ceramics, wood, and leather. ·"ink" The term "ink" should be broadly interpreted in the same way as the definition of "recording" above, and refers to a medium containing a recording material that can be applied to a recording medium to form an image, design, pattern, etc., or to process the recording medium, or to treat the ink. It is a liquid in physical properties. The ink treatment mentioned above refers to, for example, solidification or insolubilization of the coloring material in the ink applied to the recording medium. ·"nozzle" Unless otherwise specified, the term "nozzle" refers to an ejection opening. Inside the nozzle there is a communicating liquid path and an element that generates energy used to eject ink. ·"scanning" In order to record on a recording medium, a recording head scans the recording medium to perform recording. Here, the term "scanning" refers to the head movement during acceleration and deceleration for recording or related to recording.

[0013] FIG. 1 is a perspective view showing the appearance of a recording device 500 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

[0014] The recording device 500 includes a housing (exterior) 501, a recording head (not shown) that performs a recording operation on a recording medium, and ink tanks 502 as ink storage containers that contain ink to be supplied to the recording head. The ink tanks 502 are arranged on the front of the housing 501, and the recording head and ink tanks 502 are connected for each color by ink channels corresponding to each ink. A black ink tank 502a is provided on the left side when viewed from the front of the recording device 500, and a cyan ink tank 502b, a magenta ink tank 502c, and a yellow ink tank 502d are provided on the right side when viewed from the front of the recording device 500. The recording device 500 also includes a paper tray 503 and a paper cassette 504 as paper feed units for loading recording media into the device. After recording is complete, the recording media are ejected from an ejection unit 505 to the outside of the recording device 500. It also includes a paper feed motor (not shown) for feeding recording media from a paper tray 503 or a paper cassette 504, and a motor (not shown) for driving the recording head in the scanning direction. It also includes a motor (not shown) for driving a roller for transporting the recording media, and a scanner motor (not shown) for scanning the scanner sensor during scanning.

[0015] The recording device 500 also includes an operation unit 506 that allows the user to perform operations such as inputting instructions. By operating the power key 107 mounted on the operation unit 506, the recording device 500 can be switched between an on state and an off state.

[0016] 2 is a block diagram illustrating the schematic configuration of a power supply control IC 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The power supply control IC 100 functions as a power supply control device and is formed on a substrate on which a circuit (not shown) that controls the power supply to the recording device 500 is mounted.

[0017] A power-saving off state can be realized by this power supply control IC 100. In the embodiment, the standby state in which the device is turned on by user operation is referred to as an off state (soft off state), and this off state is a power-saving state in which power is supplied to the device from the power supply control IC 100. Furthermore, a state in which power is not supplied to the device from the power supply control IC 100 (the power supply unit 102 is not outputting power) is expressed as a power-saving off state (power-saving off).

[0018] The power supply control IC 100 generates power to be supplied to the main control unit 108 of the recording device 500 and to various units and components included in the device, such as various sensors and LEDs (not shown in FIG. 2). The power supply control IC 100 has a control unit 101 that controls the power supply control IC 100, and a power supply unit 102 that generates output power. The power supply control IC 100 also has an IC power generation unit 103 that generates internal power used for pulling up communication signals within the control unit 101 and the power supply control IC 100 and various sensor signals such as external power switches. The power supply control IC 100 also has a register control unit 104 that controls registers that hold settings and input signals for the power supply control IC 100.

[0019] The control unit 101 controls the entire power supply control IC 100, and performs output control of the power supply unit 102 and control based on register settings of the register control unit 104. The control unit 101 also controls the operation of the power supply control IC 100 based on a reset signal 106 input from a control IC external to the power supply control IC 100 or user operation input from a power key 107 or the like. When power is supplied to the power supply control IC 100 from a power supply unit (PSU) 105, the power supply control IC 100 is released from the reset state by the rise of its internal power supply. The power supply control IC 100 also enters the reset state when the reset signal 106 is asserted (goes low).

[0020] The power supply unit 102 has regulators such as a DC-DC converter (DC / DC) and an LDO (Low Drop Out), and is controlled by the control unit 101. As will be described later with reference to Fig. 3, the timing of power output from the power supply unit 102 can be set to start after power is supplied from the power supply unit 105 and a reset signal 106 is released, depending on the register setting of the register control unit 104. Alternatively, depending on the register setting of the register control unit 104, the power supply unit 102 can start power output when an operation to transition to an on state, such as a power key 107, is input.

[0021] The output timing setting of the power supply unit 102 (DC-DC converter) is held in the register control unit 104, and the register control unit 104 can hold the setting value in the register even when power is not being supplied from the power supply unit 105. The register (memory) that records the setting value of the register control unit 104 is not limited to being nonvolatile, but may be volatile. However, in the case of volatile memory, the output setting of the power supply unit 102 may be controlled after power is supplied from the power supply unit 105. When the recording device 500 operates upon receiving power from the power supply unit 105, the power supply unit 102 outputs power when power supply from the power supply unit 105 begins. After the main control unit 108 initializes the recording device 500, the fact that power is being supplied from the power supply unit 105 is recorded in the register control unit 104. The setting of the register control unit 104 can then be changed to a setting that does not output power from the power supply unit 102, causing the recording device 500 to transition to a power-saving off state, which is a standby state with low power consumption.

[0022] In the power-saving off state where no power is supplied from the power supply control IC 100, the power supply unit 102 waits without outputting power even when the recording device 500 is in the off state, which is a standby state. This reduces the power consumption of the recording device 500 when it is in standby mode. In FIG. 2, the power supply unit 102 includes three DC-DC converters and one LDO (regulator), but there are no particular limitations on the number or combination of each component, and the power supply unit 102 may be provided with multiple or a single DC-DC converter and multiple regulators. It may also be provided with only multiple or a single DC-DC converter, or with only multiple or a single regulator.

[0023] The power supply unit 102 can input the output of the DC-DC converter to another DC-DC converter or an LDO (regulator) to generate an output power supply. The DC-DC converter in the power supply unit 102 uses DC power supplied from the power supply unit 105 as input power, and for example, 32 V or 24 V is input to the power supply unit 102. The output voltage of the DC-DC converter is 5 V (5 V power supply) output from channel 1 (DC / DC channel 1) of the DC-DC converter in the recording device 500, for example. This output 5 V is then input to DC / DC channels 2 and 3 to generate 3.3 V (3 V power supply) and 1.1 V or 0.9 V (1 V power supply), respectively. Furthermore, the 3.3 V power output from DC / DC channel 2 is input to an LDO to obtain a 1.5 V power supply (memory power supply). The 5 V power supply is used for lighting LEDs and as a power supply for an external boost circuit, etc. The 3V power supply is used for communication between the power supply control IC 100 and the main control unit 108, as a power supply for various sensors, analog signals, ROM, etc. The 1V power supply is used for internal control of the main control unit 108, etc. Furthermore, the 1.5V power supply is used as a power supply for ROM / RAM communication, analog signals, etc. Note that instead of a configuration in which DC / DCch3 outputs a 1V power supply, a configuration in which DC / DCch3 generates 1.5V and inputs it to an LDO to generate a 1V power supply such as 0.9V may also be used.

[0024] In addition, in a configuration with two DC / DCs and two regulators (LDOs), 5V (5V power supply) and 3.3V (3V power supply) are generated by DC / DCch1 and DC / DCch2. Then, the 3.3V or 5V generated by the two regulators can be input to two other regulators, and the two regulators can generate 1.1V (1V power supply) and 1.5V.

[0025] The DC / DC can switch the maximum power (current) that can be output, and when it is desired to reduce power consumption, it is possible to reduce power consumption by suppressing the DC / DC chopping frequency or by performing intermittent operation. Also, when the recording device 500 is in a mode that consumes a lot of current, it is possible to increase the maximum supply current by increasing the DC / DC chopping frequency.

[0026] The IC power supply generation unit 103 can generate any voltage, including commonly used voltages such as a 5V power supply, a 3V power supply, and a 1V power supply. The IC power supply generation unit 103 can generate multiple voltages, or it can be configured to generate only a single power supply, such as a 3V power supply. The IC internal power supply can be output externally from the power supply control IC 100, and even when the power supply unit 102 is not outputting power, it can be used as a power supply for external sensors, etc., or as a pull-up power supply for input signals of a reset signal 106 and a power key 107, which will be described later.

[0027] The register control unit 104 stores the settings of the power supply control IC 100, such as the output / non-output settings of the various DC-DC converters and LDOs of the power supply unit 102. The register control unit 104 also has a memory function for storing various settings, such as input signal values ​​and registers. As described above, the memory function may be either volatile or nonvolatile. For example, a combination is possible in which registers and settings that need to be stored even when power is not supplied to the power supply control IC 100 are nonvolatile, while settings and input signal values ​​that are used after power is turned on are volatile. The register control unit 104 can also store values ​​such as input values ​​from various sensors, analog signal inputs, and digital values ​​after analog-to-digital conversion, as described below. This eliminates the need to supply power to ICs other than the power supply control IC 100 or the main control unit 108 to store various values ​​or to supply power to various sensors. In this way, signals input to the recording device 500 can be detected while maintaining a low-power standby state.

[0028] The values ​​stored in the register control unit 104 can be read by the main control unit 108 after the recording device 500 is started, and can be used to control the recording device 500. Normally, register setting values ​​are stored in a memory area with an address assigned to each setting. However, if it is desired to reduce the register area, it is possible to reduce the memory amount by assigning setting values ​​one bit at a time, rather than assigning setting values ​​to each address, thereby reducing the memory area. The data area of ​​the register control unit 104 may be configured, for example, to assign addresses to each function, or to allocate functions one bit at a time, and is not limited thereto.

[0029] Power is supplied to the power supply control IC 100 by connecting the power supply unit 105 to a commercial power source. The power supply unit 105 converts AC power supplied from a general outlet or the like into DC power and supplies it. For example, the power supply unit 105 converts AC 100V or AC 240V into a voltage that is easy to use in the recording device 500 in which the power supply control IC 100 is mounted, such as DC 32V or DC 24V, and supplies the converted voltage. Furthermore, the DC power supply is not limited to the power supply unit 105; the power supply control IC 100 may also be operated by power supplied by a power supply unit such as a battery (not shown).

[0030] The power supply control IC 100 is reset and becomes operable when power is supplied from the power supply unit 105 or the like and the reset signal 106 goes high. In Fig. 2, the reset signal 106 is pulled up by the power output from the IC power generation unit 103 of the power supply control IC 100, but it is also possible to pull up the reset signal 106 by a peripheral circuit external to the power supply control IC 100.

[0031] The power key 107 supplies an input signal to transition the recording device 500, in which the power supply control IC 100 is implemented, from an off state to an on state or from an on state to an off state. The power key 107 may be configured as a self-resetting switch that changes contact only when pressed, or a contact changeover switch. The power key 107 switches contacts using a physical mechanism, but may also be configured as a non-electrical contact type, such as a capacitance type or an optical type. In FIG. 2, the signal from the power key 107 is pulled up by the power from the IC power generation unit 103 of the power supply control IC 100, but it can also be pulled up by a peripheral circuit external to the power supply control IC 100.

[0032] In this embodiment, the power supply control IC 100 is provided with a detection means for detecting input of a transition signal such as that from the power key 107. This allows the recording device 500 to transition between on and off states without supplying power to the main control unit 108, which determines the transition of the power state of the recording device 500.

[0033] The main control unit 108 is a device control unit that controls the recording device 500, whose power supply is controlled by the power supply control IC 100, and is connected to the power supply control IC 100 via control lines. In FIG. 2, the main control unit 108, the control unit 101, and the register control unit 104 are connected via a bus. However, the control lines may be configured as serial signals such as differential signals, parallel signals, or general-purpose IFs such as SPI and I2C. As will be described later with reference to FIG. 3, the main control unit 108 includes a control unit including peripheral circuits such as a control IC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) or a CPU, and memory. This control unit may be configured not only with peripheral circuits, but also with only an IC, such as an integrated circuit implementing multiple functions, or may be a unit including both ICs and peripheral circuits; its configuration is not limited. The main control unit 108 can communicate with the control unit 101 and register control unit 104 of the power supply control IC 100. The main control unit 108 can perform various settings by communicating with the control unit 101, communicate with the register control unit 104 via the control unit 101, and communicate directly with the register control unit 104 to send and receive setting values.

[0034] 2 illustrates the configuration required for power saving control of the power supply, but it is also possible to implement functions other than power supply control in the power supply control IC 100, as will be explained in FIG. 3, for example. The functions may be implemented inside the power supply control IC 100 or configured as peripheral circuits, and there are no particular limitations on the implementation form. Furthermore, although the power supply control IC 100 is used in the embodiment, it may also be configured as a circuit block.

[0035] Furthermore, in the embodiment, the recording device 500 is described as an example, but the device incorporating the power supply control IC 100 is not limited to such a recording device, and can also be applied to other electronic devices such as cameras.

[0036] Next, with reference to FIG. 3, a case where functions other than those shown in FIG. 2 are implemented in the power supply control IC 100 will be described.

[0037] 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the main control 108 and the power supply control IC 100 in the recording device 500 according to the embodiment. In FIG. 3, parts that are common to those in FIG. 2 are given the same reference numerals, and their description will be omitted.

[0038] In FIG. 3 , an ADC (analog-digital converter) 201 and a motor control unit 202 are implemented within the power supply control IC 100, and external signals include an analog signal 204 from a thermistor or the like and input signals from various sensors 205 that detect user operations. The thermistor is used to detect the ambient temperature of the recording device 500 and control the device based on the external temperature. The sensor 205 is, for example, a sensor that detects operations of a paper feed cassette for loading paper, a tray for loading paper, or operations for replacing ink or other printing agents in the recording device 500. The analog signal 204 and the input signal from the sensor 205 may be powered by power supplied from the IC power generation unit 103, the output power of the power supply unit 102, or a power source supplied externally. The analog signal 204 and the sensor 205 signals input to the power supply control IC 100 may each be single or multiple, and the number of signals is not limited.

[0039] The ADC 201 has the functions of converting the analog signal 204 input into a digital signal and sampling the analog signal 204 at regular intervals and converting it back into a digital signal. It also has the functions of averaging the sampled signal and performing various calculations. For example, if a thermistor signal is input to the ADC 201 as the analog signal 204, the thermistor signal is sampled at regular intervals and converted into a digital signal. The ADC 201 then performs a set calculation on the digital signal and stores the calculated value in the power supply control IC 100. In this way, the temperature inside or outside the recording device is detected at regular intervals and stored. When the main control unit 108 starts up, the stored information can be used to check the status of the recording device 500 or for control purposes.

[0040] Furthermore, the ADC 201 can sample the analog signal 204 using the internal power supplied by the IC power generation unit 103 even when the power supply unit 102 is not outputting power and the recording device 500 is in a power-saving off state. Furthermore, when the main control unit 108 is running, the analog signal 204 input by the power supply control IC 100 can be output as is and input to the main control unit 108, or the analog signal 204 can be input in parallel to the main control unit 108 for analog signal processing. When the analog signal 204 is input in parallel to the power supply control IC 100 and the main control unit 108, a circuit (not shown) may be used to select which one to input the analog signal 204 to in order to separate the power supplies for the analog signal 204. Furthermore, even when the main control unit 108 is running, the digital value sampled by the ADC 201 can be output to the main control unit 108 for control.

[0041] Similarly, even when the recording device 500 is in a power-saving off state, in which the power supply unit 102 is not outputting power, the input signal from the sensor 205 can be detected by the power supplied by the IC power generation unit 103. In this way, even when the recording device 500 is in a power-saving off state, the ADC 201 and the sensor 205 operate, and data can be stored in the register control unit 104. After the recording device 500 transitions to the on state, the main control unit 108 reads the values ​​stored in the register control unit 104. In this way, when the recording device 500 is turned on, the main control unit 108 can ascertain the details of operations performed during the power-saving off state, which is a low-power consumption state.

[0042] For example, if the recording device 500 can detect when a user has loaded paper into a cassette for printing paper while in the power-saving off state, as well as the number of sheets of paper loaded and the size of the paper, the paper information will already be detected when the device transitions to the on state. This eliminates the need for the user to set the paper information again. Furthermore, an imaging device such as a camera can detect and retain the insertion or removal of a recording medium (such as an SD card) or the pressing of a playback button to check captured images while in the power-saving off state. This enables various controls, such as automatically displaying a playback screen when the device transitions to the on state or after the power key is pressed.

[0043] Next, the configuration including the control motor control unit 202 and the control of the motor 203 will be described.

[0044] The power supply control IC 100 uses a voltage supplied to the power supply control IC 100 to output DC / DC and control the motor 203. In this embodiment, the voltage input to the power supply control IC 100 is shared by both the DC / DC input power supply and the control power supply for the motor 203. While the power supply generation IC and the motor control IC are typically configured as separate ICs and peripheral circuits, these can be integrated into only the power supply control IC 100. This offers advantages such as reduced area on the IC mounting board and reduced costs due to the elimination of separate ICs. Furthermore, by sharing a common voltage for power generation by the power supply control IC 100 and for controlling the motor 203, the number of voltages input to the power supply control IC 100 can be reduced. Meanwhile, the voltages input to the power supply control IC 100 for the power supply unit 102 and for controlling the motor 203 may be different voltages, and the number of voltages input to the power supply control IC 100 is not limited.

[0045] The control line between the ASIC 206 and the motor control unit 202 may be connected in parallel with the register control unit 104, or may be configured to switch between motor control and register control. For example, if a control line from the main control unit 108 is connected in parallel, motor control is performed using that control line while the motor 203 is being controlled. When the motor 203 is not being controlled (the motor 203 is not operating), the control line can be used as a common control line by controlling the power supply control IC 100, such as setting the output of the power supply unit 102, via that control line. Switching between control of the motor 203 and control of the power supply control IC 100 can be performed using a control switching signal via the control switching line, or, if a control switching signal is not used, by using a command specifying which control to perform at the beginning of a control signal transmission command. It is also possible for the ASIC 206 to control the motor control unit 202 and the register control unit 104 via the control unit 101. It is also possible to simultaneously control the ASIC 206 and the motor control unit 202 by separately connecting the ASIC 206 and the power supply control IC 100.

[0046] When controlling the motor 203, if DC 32V or DC 24V is supplied from the power supply unit 105 to the power supply control IC 100 as described above, various motors 203 can be driven using DC 32V or DC 24V. The power supply control IC 100 includes a booster unit (not shown) therein to drive the motor 203. If the power supply unit 105 is a battery such as a lithium-ion battery or a power supply that outputs approximately 5V or 10V, such as an AC adapter, the power supply control IC 100 controls the motor control unit 202 and the motor 203 using the voltage boosted by the booster unit (not shown). This booster unit may also be configured as an external circuit (boost circuit) of the power supply control IC 100 and supplied to the power supply control IC 100. The output voltage of the booster unit or booster circuit can also be used for purposes other than controlling the motor 203. For example, the output voltage may be used as an input power source for the power supply control IC 100, such as the power supply unit 102 or the IC power generation unit 103. The boosted voltage may be used to control the motor 203 , and the voltage before boosting may be used as an input power source for the DC / DC converter of the power supply unit 102 .

[0047] Many products use multiple motors 203. For example, in the recording device 500, a paper feed motor for feeding paper from a paper tray or paper cassette, a motor for driving the recording head in the scanning direction, a motor for driving a paper transport roller, and a scanner motor for driving a scanner sensor during scanning are mainly used. Furthermore, in imaging devices such as cameras, motors are used for lens barrel control, focus adjustment, shutter control, and the like. The motor 203 may be a DC motor or a stepping motor, and the type of motor is not limited. Furthermore, while FIG. 3 shows four motors 203, in reality, there may be one or more motors, and the number is not limited.

[0048] The motor control unit 202 is connected to the ASIC 206 via a control line, allowing direct control from the ASIC 206. The ASIC 206 and motor control unit 202 may be configured either with a bus connection, where a separate control line is used for each motor, or with a serial signal connection, where all motors are controlled. For example, in the case of a bus connection, a pair of a PHASE signal and an ENABLE signal is connected for each motor according to the number of motors, and the number of signal lines required for the control lines of the power supply control IC 100 is shared with the motor control signals. In the case of a serial connection, control is performed by switching between control of the power supply control IC 100, specification of the motor 203 to be controlled, and control of the motor 203 using commands sent via serial signals.

[0049] Next, an example of the internal configuration of the main control unit 108 will be described. An actual device will have a wide variety of implemented functions, including multiple control ICs, various sensors, and operating mechanisms, resulting in a structure too complex to be represented in Fig. 3, but the description will be given here focusing on the components related to the embodiment. Fig. 3 shows an ASIC 206 as the central IC of the main control 108, but it may also be a control IC such as a general-purpose CPU or FPGA (Field Programmable Gate Array), and is not limited to the configuration of Fig. 3.

[0050] Next, the configuration of the ASIC 206 will be described.

[0051] When the ASIC 206 is powered on by the power supply unit 102, the CPU 209 starts controlling the recording device 500 according to the control program stored in the ROM 207 via the memory controller 210. The key detection unit 208 can detect whether the power key 107 has been operated via the power supply control IC 100. Operating the power key 107 causes the recording device 500 to transition to the ON state. At this time, the ASIC 206 can determine whether the transition is from the OFF state or the power-saving OFF state to the ON state by reading the output setting of the power supply unit 102 set in the register control unit 104. Similarly, the sensor detection unit 212 can detect the state of the sensor 205 of the recording device 500 via the power supply control IC 100. By detecting changes in the sensor 205 in this way, the ASIC 206 executes the necessary processing as appropriate. Furthermore, the ASIC 206 can communicate with the power supply control IC 100 via the communication I / F 211. In addition to communication with the power supply control IC 100, the communication I / F 211 also controls communication with the USB and wired / wireless LAN within the recording device 500. The protocol used for this communication may be an I2C or UART interface protocol, or may be a high-speed communication connection such as differential signaling or PCIe. The communication protocol of the communication I / F 211 is determined according to the circumstances of the recording device 500.

[0052] Furthermore, when power is being supplied to the ASIC 206, the power supply control IC 100 transmits the state of the power key 107 to a key detection unit 208 of the ASIC 206, thereby enabling the ASIC 206 to detect the operation of the power key 107. Similarly, the ASIC 206 transmits the state of the sensor 205 to a sensor detection unit 212 of the ASIC 206, thereby enabling the ASIC 206 to detect the sensor 205. The states in which power is being supplied to the ASIC 206 include an on state (operating state) in which the user can operate it, and an off state, and the state in which power is not being supplied to the ASIC 206 is a power-saving off state.

[0053] It is possible to switch between supplying and stopping power to various internal circuits equipped in the power supply control IC 100. For example, when the power supply unit 102 is in the off state and supplies power to the main control unit 108 and the like, but does not control the motor 203, it is possible to reduce the standby power consumption of the recording device 500 by stopping the power supply to the motor control unit 202 and the motor 203. Note that stopping the power supply to the motor control system is just one example, and the power consumption of the recording device 500 can be reduced by the power supply control IC 100 appropriately stopping unnecessary power supply.

[0054] FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of state transitions of the recording device 500 when external power is supplied to the recording device 500 according to this embodiment.

[0055] As described above, the recording device 500 can be in one of three states, as described below. The first state is an ON state in which power is supplied from the power supply unit 105 externally to the device, and then power is supplied from the power supply unit 102 to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206), making the device operable. The second state is an OFF state in which power is supplied from the power supply unit 102 to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206), but the device is stopped and waiting to transition to the ON state. For example, the second state is a state in which pre-operation processing, such as initialization, is required to make the device operable. The third state is a power-saving OFF state in which power supply from the power supply unit 102 to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206) is stopped and the device is waiting to transition to the ON state.

[0056] In this embodiment, in addition to the ON state in which a user can operate the device through a display unit such as the operation unit 506, a power-saving state in which power-saving control is performed on unused functional blocks when there is no operation for a while is also referred to as the ON state. Furthermore, a standby state in which nothing is displayed on the display unit but which can transition to the ON state when an operation job is received from the communication I / F 211 such as USB or wireless LAN is also referred to as the ON state. This standby state is a mode in which operation is possible by supplying power to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206). Furthermore, a state in which the minimum power state in which power supply to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206) is stopped and which transitions to an operable ON state when a specific process is received is referred to as a power-saving OFF state.

[0057] First, in S401, the power supply unit 105 is placed in a state where power is supplied from an external source. For example, if the power supply unit 105 is a battery, this is a state where the battery is connected. Also, if the power supply unit 105 is an AC adapter, this is a state where the power supply unit 105 is connected to a commercial power source. Next, the process proceeds to S402, where a power supply voltage generated by the power supply unit 105 is supplied to the power supply control IC 100. As a result, the IC power supply generation unit 103 generates and outputs an internal power supply, and the power supply control IC 100 is released from the reset state.

[0058] Next, the process proceeds to S403, where the control unit 101 of the power supply control IC 100 determines whether the power supply unit 102 is set to output power based on the setting value of the register control unit 104. If the power supply unit 102 is set to output power (the DCDC output setting is on), the process proceeds to S404, where the power supply unit 102 (DCDC / LDO) is operated to output power. On the other hand, if the power supply unit 102 is set not to output power (the DCDC output setting is off), the process proceeds to S410, where the power supply unit 102 transitions to a power-saving off state in which it does not supply power.

[0059] This DCDC output setting is determined based on a setting value held in the register control unit 104, and this setting value also includes the timing of power output from the DCDC and LDO of the power supply unit 102 and the output order of each DCDC / LDO. Therefore, the control unit 101 controls the power output in accordance with this setting value. Depending on the output setting of this power supply unit 102, the recording device 500 can switch between an off state in which power is supplied to the main control unit 108 and a power saving off state in which power is not supplied to the main control unit 108.

[0060] In S404, the power supply unit 102 generates power and supplies the generated voltages to the main control unit 108 and other components within the device.

[0061] Next, in S405, the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206) starts processing in accordance with the control program stored in the ROM 207 as a result of the start of power supply. For example, the main control unit 108 loads data into the RAM 207 and initializes each module implemented inside the ASIC 206, such as the communication I / F 211 and memory controller 210, to make them usable and also performs startup preparations. Next, the process proceeds to S406, where after startup preparations are completed, the main control unit 108 transitions to a standby state before transitioning to the ON state. In this standby state, power consumption can also be reduced by transitioning the output of the power supply unit 102 from a normal mode to a low power consumption mode in which the chopping frequency is reduced.

[0062] Then, in S407, the process waits for a transition signal to be input to the ON state by pressing the power key 107 or the like. When a transition signal such as pressing the power key 107 or a start signal for the recording device 500 is input, the process proceeds to start-up processing in S408. On the other hand, if a transition signal is not input, the process remains in a standby state in S407, waiting for the input of a transition signal.

[0063] In S408, the main control unit 108 performs a transition process (startup process) to switch the device to the ON state. For example, it turns on the display units such as the LCD and LED of the user interface, and initializes mechanical operating mechanisms such as the motor 203. If the power supply unit 102 is set to a low power consumption mode, it changes the mode to a normal output mode. Then, the process proceeds to S409, where the recording device 500 is transitioned to an ON state in which the user can operate it. Note that if it is determined that the recording device 500 does not need to remain in an operable state after transitioning to S409, it may also be in a power-saving standby state, such as turning off the display unit or switching the output of the power supply unit 102 from the normal output mode to a low power consumption mode with a reduced chopping frequency.

[0064] On the other hand, if the power supply unit 102 is not set to output power in S403, the process proceeds to S410, where the power supply unit 102 transitions to a power-saving off state in which it does not supply power to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206). In this power-saving off state, power is not supplied from the power supply control IC 100 to various devices and units, thereby achieving a low-power consumption state. Then, the process proceeds to S411, where, similar to S407, the process waits for input of a transition signal to switch the power key 107 and other devices to the on state. If a transition signal is input, the process proceeds to S412, where, similar to S404, the power supply unit 102 generates power and supplies various generated voltages to the device, including the main control unit 108. As a result, power is supplied to the main control unit 108, so the process proceeds to S413, where, similar to S405, each module is initialized to a usable state, and the process proceeds to S408. Then, in S408, startup processing is performed and the process transitions to the on state in S409.

[0065] By this processing, when the power is turned on, it is possible to transition to an OFF state, which is a standby state that transitions to an ON state, or a power-saving OFF state, which is a standby state that transitions to an ON state, based on the setting value held in the register control unit 104. In the power-saving OFF state, the power supply control IC operates on a power-saving internal power supply generated by the IC power control unit, thereby further reducing the power consumption of the entire device in the standby state.

[0066] FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating the process when the recording device 500 according to this embodiment transitions from an operable state to a standby state.

[0067] S501 shows the ON state of S409 in Fig. 4. Next, in S502, if a signal to transition to the OFF state, such as pressing the power key 107, is detected in the ON state (operable state), the process proceeds to S503. In S503, the control unit 101 of the power supply control IC 100 checks the setting value of the register control unit 104 and determines whether the output setting of the power supply unit 102 is set to output power. If the setting is such that the power supply unit 102 outputs power (DCDC output on), the process proceeds to S504, and if the setting is such that the power supply unit 102 does not output power, the process proceeds to S506.

[0068] In S504, the main control unit 108 performs processing to transition the device to the off state. Here, for example, processing to turn off displays such as the LCD and LED of the user interface, and initialization of mechanical operating mechanisms such as the motor 203, are performed. The control unit 101 also performs processing such as changing the power supply unit 102 from the normal output mode to the low power consumption mode. After completing the processing to transition to the off state, the process proceeds to S505, where the recording device 500 is transitioned to the off state (standby state), and this processing ends.

[0069] Meanwhile, in S506, the main control unit 108 initiates a transition of the device to the power-saving off state. At this time, similar to S504, the main control unit 108 performs processing to turn off displays such as the LCD and LEDs of the user interface and initialize mechanical operating mechanisms such as the motor 203, and records in the register control unit 104 that the power supply control IC 100 transitions to the power-saving off state. Recording this transition makes it possible to determine whether the transition to the power-saving off state occurred immediately after power was applied from the power supply unit 105 or while the power was already applied. This allows the processing performed when the recording device 500 is started to be changed, as described above. After the processing of S506 is completed, the processing proceeds to S507, where the control unit 101 stops the output of the power supply unit 102. In S507, the control unit 101 of the power supply control IC 100 stops the power output from the power supply unit 102, thereby stopping the power supply to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206). Then, the process proceeds to S508, where the state transitions to the power-saving off state, and the state transitions to the power-saving off state in which the state transition signal for the power key 107 or the like to be turned on is awaited, and this process ends.

[0070] FIG. 6 is a sequence diagram illustrating the sequence when the recording device 500 according to the embodiment is turned on and when it transitions to an off state.

[0071] First, when power is supplied to the power supply unit 105 from the outside in S601, the reset of the power supply control IC 100 (control unit 101) is released in S602. Note that in Fig. 6, reference numeral 630 indicates a case where the DCDC output setting is on in the setting value held in the register control unit 104, and reference numeral 640 indicates a case where the DCDC output setting is off.

[0072] If the DCDC output setting is on, in S603 the control unit 101 instructs the power supply unit 102 to output power in accordance with the setting value held in the register control unit 104. As a result, in S604 the power supply unit 102 starts outputting power. When power is supplied to the main control unit 108 in this way in S605, the main control unit 108 executes the initial setting described above in S404 in S606, and then, as described above in S406, transitions to the standby state before transitioning to the on state. Then, when the power key 107 is pressed in S607, startup processing is executed in S608 as in S408, and the state transitions to the on state.

[0073] On the other hand, when the DC / DC output setting is off, the power supply unit 102 is in a power-saving off state where it does not output power, that is, the main control unit 108 is on standby in an inactive state. Then, when the power key 107 is pressed in S609, an instruction to output power is issued to the power supply unit 102 in S610. As a result, the power supply unit 102 generates power in S611 and supplies various generated voltages to the inside of the device, such as the main control unit 108. As a result, power is supplied to the main control unit 108 in S612. In this way, the main control unit 108 executes the initial setting described above in S404 in S613, and when the initial setting is completed, executes startup processing in S614 and transitions to the on state.

[0074] Next, a transition from the ON state to the standby state will be described. Reference numeral 650 indicates a case where the DCDC output setting is ON according to the setting value held in the register control unit 104, and reference numeral 660 indicates a case where the DCDC output setting is OFF.

[0075] If the power key 107 is pressed while the device is in the on state, the control unit 101 and the main control unit 108 detect the pressing of the power key 107 in S615. If the DC-DC output setting is on, the control unit 101 of the power supply control IC 100 instructs the power supply unit 102 to change from the normal output mode to the low power consumption mode in S616. As a result, the power supply unit 102 changes from the normal output mode to the low power consumption mode in S617. Furthermore, when the main control unit 108 detects that the power key 107 has been pressed, it performs processing to transition to the off state in S618, for example, by turning off the display units such as the LCD and LED of the user interface and initializing mechanical operating mechanisms such as the motor 203. In this way, the recording device 500 transitions to the off state (standby state).

[0076] On the other hand, when the DC-DC output setting is off, pressing the power key 107 causes the control unit 101 and main control unit 108 to detect the pressing of the power key 107 in S619. As a result, the main control unit 108 performs processing to turn off displays such as the LCD and LED of the user interface and initialize mechanical operating mechanisms such as the motor 203. Then, in S620, the main control unit 108 performs processing to record in the register control unit 104 that the power supply control IC 100 transitions to the power-saving off state. As a result, in S621, the control unit 101 records information such as this transition in the register control unit 104. Then, in S622, the control unit 101 stops the output of the power supply unit 102. Thus, in S623, the power supply unit 102 stops its power output. As a result, the power supply to the main control unit 108 (ASIC 206) is also stopped in S624. Then, in S625, as explained in S508, the main control unit 108 transitions to the power saving off state, and transitions to the power saving off state in which it waits for the input of a power transition signal by turning on the power key 107 or the like.

[0077] In the above-described embodiment, an inkjet recording apparatus has been described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to inkjet recording apparatuses. The present invention is applicable not only to recording apparatuses, but also to any product that requires reduced standby power consumption, such as battery-powered cameras and mobile phones such as smartphones. As an example, when applied to an air purifier, a sensor is provided on the cover that holds the filter, and if the cover is opened or closed in the power-saving off state, this is recorded. Then, when the state transitions from the power-saving off state to the on state, a message can be sent to the user to confirm whether the filter has been replaced.

[0078] (Other embodiments) The present invention can also be realized by supplying a program that realizes one or more functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and having one or more processors in the computer of the system or device read and execute the program. It can also be realized by a circuit (e.g., ASIC) that realizes one or more functions.

[0079] The present specification and drawings disclose the following power supply control device, electronic device having the power supply control device, and method for controlling the power supply control device.

[0080] [Item 1] power supply means for outputting power; a storage means for storing information for controlling the output of the power supply means; a detection means for detecting an input of a transition signal that causes a transition of a power supply state; a control means for controlling the output of power from the power supply means based on the information stored in the storage means when the detection means detects the input of the transition signal; A power supply control device comprising:

[0081] [Item 2] 2. The power supply control device according to item 1, wherein the power supply means has at least one DC-DC converter.

[0082] [Item 3] 3. The power supply control device according to item 2, wherein the power supply means further comprises at least one regulator.

[0083] [Item 4] 4. The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the transition signal is input by pressing a power key.

[0084] [Item 5] 4. The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein the transition signal is input by a start-up signal of an electronic device that includes the power supply control device.

[0085] [Item 6] 6. The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 5, further comprising a motor control means for controlling a motor of an electronic device equipped with the power supply control device.

[0086] [Item 7] 7. The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 6, further comprising a power supply generating means for generating internal power used by the power supply control device by being connected to a commercial power supply or a battery.

[0087] [Item 8] 8. The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 7, wherein the information includes a setting indicating whether or not to output power from the power supply means.

[0088] [Item 9] The power supply state of the power control device according to any one of items 1 to 8 includes a first state in which power is supplied from the power supply means and an electronic device equipped with the power control device is operable, a second state in which power is supplied from the power supply means but operation of the electronic device is stopped and the device is waiting to transition to the first state, and a third state in which power supply from the power supply means is stopped and the device is waiting to transition to the first state.

[0089] [Item 10] 10. The power supply control device according to item 9, wherein if the information includes a setting indicating that power is not to be output from the power supply means, the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the second state, and when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the second state, the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the first state.

[0090] [Item 11] Item 9 or 10, the power supply means has at least one DC-DC converter, and the second state is a state in which the chopping frequency of the at least one DC-DC converter is lower than that of the first state. A power supply control device.

[0091] [Item 12] 12. The power supply control device according to any one of items 9 to 11, wherein the third state is a power-saving off state in which the electronic device consumes less power than other states.

[0092] [Item 13] 13. The power supply control device according to any one of items 9 to 12, wherein the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the third state if the information includes a setting indicating that power is not to be output from the power supply means when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the first state.

[0093] [Item 14] 15. The power supply control device according to any one of items 9 to 14, wherein the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the second state if the information includes a setting indicating that power is to be output from the power supply means when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the first state.

[0094] [Item 15] An electronic device, The power supply control device according to any one of items 1 to 14, a main control means for controlling the operation of the electronic device based on the power supply from the power supply means, The electronic device is characterized in that the main control means stores the power supply state of the electronic device in the storage means.

[0095] [Item 16] Item 16. The electronic device according to item 15, wherein the information includes a setting as to whether or not power is to be supplied from the power supply means to the main control means.

[0096] [Item 17] 17. The electronic device described in item 15 or 16, characterized in that when the information includes a setting to supply power from the power supply means, the control means controls the power supply means to supply power to the main control means.

[0097] [Item 18] 18. The electronic device described in any one of items 15 to 17, wherein the information further includes information indicating whether power is being supplied from an external power source when the electronic device is started up.

[0098] [Item 19] The electronic device described in any one of items 15 to 18, characterized in that the storage means can further retain the contents operated while the electronic device is in a power-saving off state, which is a state in which the electronic device consumes less power than other states.

[0099] [Item 20] A control method for a power supply control device having a power supply means that outputs power, a storage step of storing information for controlling the output of the power supply means; a detection step of detecting an input of a transition signal that transitions a power supply state; a control step of controlling the output of power from the power supply means based on the information stored in the storage step when the input of the transition signal is detected in the detection step; A control method comprising:

[0100] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications and variations can be made without departing from the spirit and scope of the present invention. Therefore, the following claims are appended to apprise the public of the scope of the present invention. [Explanation of symbols]

[0101] 100... Power supply control IC, 101... Control unit, 102... Power supply control unit, 103... IC power generation unit, 104... Register control unit, 105... Power supply unit, 106... Reset signal, 107... Power key, 108... Main control unit

Claims

1. power supply means for outputting power; a storage means for storing information for controlling the output of the power supply means; a detection means for detecting an input of a transition signal that causes a transition of a power supply state; a control means for controlling the output of power from the power supply means based on the information stored in the storage means when the detection means detects the input of the transition signal; A power supply control device comprising:

2. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply means includes at least one DC-DC converter.

3. 3. The power supply control device according to claim 2, wherein said power supply means further comprises at least one regulator.

4. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the transition signal is input by pressing a power key.

5. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the transition signal is input by a start-up signal of an electronic device that includes the power supply control device.

6. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, further comprising a motor control unit for controlling a motor included in an electronic device equipped with the power supply control device.

7. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, further comprising power supply generating means for generating an internal power supply used in said power supply control device by being connected to a commercial power supply or a battery.

8. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the information includes a setting indicating whether or not power is to be output from the power supply means.

9. 2. The power supply control device according to claim 1, wherein the power supply states include a first state in which power is supplied from the power supply means and an electronic device equipped with the power supply control device is operable, a second state in which power is supplied from the power supply means but operation of the electronic device is stopped and the electronic device is waiting to transition to the first state, and a third state in which power supply from the power supply means is stopped and the electronic device is waiting to transition to the first state.

10. 10. The power supply control device according to claim 9, wherein when the information includes a setting indicating that power is not to be output from the power supply means, the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the second state, and when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the second state, the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the first state.

11. 10. The power supply control device according to claim 9, wherein the power supply means has at least one DC-DC converter, and the second state is a state in which a chopping frequency of the at least one DC-DC converter is lower than that of the first state.

12. 10. The power supply control device according to claim 9, wherein the third state is a power-saving off state in which the electronic device consumes less power than other states.

13. 10. The power supply control device according to claim 9, wherein the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the third state if the information includes a setting indicating that power is not to be output from the power supply means when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the first state.

14. 10. The power supply control device according to claim 9, wherein the control means controls the electronic device to transition to the second state if the information includes a setting indicating that power is to be output from the power supply means when the detection means detects input of the transition signal in the first state.

15. An electronic device, A power supply control device according to any one of claims 1 to 14; a main control means for controlling the operation of the electronic device based on the power supply from the power supply means, The electronic device is characterized in that the main control means stores the power supply state of the electronic device in the storage means.

16. 16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the information includes a setting as to whether or not power is to be supplied from the power supply means to the main control means.

17. 17. The electronic device according to claim 16, wherein, when the information includes a setting for supplying power from the power supply means, the control means controls the power supply means to supply power to the main control means.

18. 16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the information further includes information indicating whether or not the electronic device is being supplied with power from an external power source when the electronic device is started up.

19. 16. The electronic device according to claim 15, wherein the storage means can further store contents of operations performed while the electronic device is in a power-saving off state, which is a state in which power consumption is lower than in other states.

20. A control method for a power supply control device having a power supply means that outputs power, a storage step of storing information for controlling the output of the power supply means; a detection step of detecting an input of a transition signal that transitions a power supply state; a control step of controlling the output of power from the power supply means based on the information stored in the storage step when the input of the transition signal is detected in the detection step; A control method comprising:

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