Information processing system and program

Abstract

To suppress decline in effects of power saving by comparing a case where a transient time until which a device transits to a mode in which a time up to the possibility of processing execution is longer than the other modes among a plurality of modes is fixed.SOLUTION: A processor outputs a setting value of a transit time until which a device transits to a mode in which a time up to the possibility of processing execution is longer than the other modes among a plurality of modes on the basis of a history of processing executed by the device having the plurality of modes in a time up to the possibility of processing execution is different, the history showing the number of times of executing the processing in each of at least two modes among the plurality of modes, and a target value of a ratio of specific processing executed by the device.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

[Technical Field]

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, a program, and an information processing method. [Background technology]

[0002] Devices having a power saving function are known.

[0003] Patent Document 1 describes a system that supplies a timeout value to a device such as a printer. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0004] [Patent Document 1] Special Publication No. 2014-502929 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0005] There are known devices that have multiple modes that require different amounts of time to become ready to execute a process. The amount of processing performed by the device and the time intervals between each processing may vary over a period of time, such as a day or a week. Therefore, if the transition time required for the device to transition to a mode that requires a longer amount of time to become ready to execute a process is constant, the power saving effect may be reduced.

[0006] The object of the present invention is to suppress a decrease in the power saving effect compared to when the transition time until the device transitions to a mode among multiple modes that takes longer than other modes until processing can be executed is constant. [Means for solving the problem]

[0007] The invention of claim 1 is an information processing system having a processor, which outputs a set value of a transition time until the device transitions to one of the multiple modes that takes longer to become able to execute a process than the other modes, based on a history of processes executed in the device having multiple modes that differ in the time until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of processes executed in each of at least two of the multiple modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device.

[0008] A second aspect of the present invention is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the history is a ratio of the number of times the process is executed in each of the at least two modes.

[0009] The invention of claim 3 is the information processing system of claim 2, wherein the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode, the first mode being a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process, the second mode being a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in the first mode, and the third mode being a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in the second mode, and the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode, the number of times the process was executed in the second mode, and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode.

[0010] The invention of claim 4 is the information processing system of claim 2, wherein the at least two modes include a first mode and a second mode, the first mode being a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process, and the second mode being a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in the first mode, and the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode and the number of times the process was executed in the second mode.

[0011] The invention of claim 5 is the information processing system of claim 2, wherein the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode, the first mode being a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process, the second mode being a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in the first mode, and the third mode being a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in the second mode, and the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the second mode and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode.

[0012] The invention of claim 6 is an information processing system according to claim 2, wherein the history is a ratio calculated using the number of processes whose time intervals at which the processes were executed were within the transition time and the total number of processes.

[0013] The invention of claim 7 is the information processing system of claim 1, wherein the number of processes executed in each of the at least two modes is the number of times a user interface possessed by the device is operated in each of the at least two modes.

[0014] The invention of claim 8 is an information processing system as described in claim 7, wherein, when the number of times the user interface is operated is equal to or less than a threshold value, the number of processes executed in each of the at least two modes includes the number of processes other than operations of the user interface.

[0015] An invention according to claim 9 is the information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processor calculates the set value of the transition time from the history and the target value by using a cumulative exponential distribution function.

[0016] The invention of claim 10 is the information processing system described in claim 1, wherein the history is the number of processing times per predetermined unit period, and the processor outputs a setting value of the transition time for a second unit period following the first unit period based on the history indicating the number of processing times during a first unit period and the target value, and if the number of processing times during the first unit period is less than a threshold value, outputs the setting value of the transition time for the first unit period as the setting value of the transition time for the second unit period.

[0017] An eleventh aspect of the present invention is the information processing system according to the first aspect, wherein the processor estimates a change in the environment in which the device is used based on a change in the set value of the transition time.

[0018] The invention of claim 12 is an information processing system as described in claim 1, in which, when a function is operating in the device that, when a person is detected around the device, causes the mode of the device to transition from one of the multiple modes that has a longer time until processing can be executed to a mode that has a shorter time than the other modes, the processor reduces the target value compared to when the function is not operating in the device.

[0019] The invention of claim 13 is an information processing system described in claim 12, wherein the target value is a value calculated by subtracting a predetermined value from the ratio, and the predetermined value when the function is operating on the device is greater than the predetermined value when the function is not operating on the device.

[0020] The invention of claim 14 is a program that causes a computer to operate to output a set value of a transition time until the device transitions to one of the multiple modes that takes longer to become able to execute a process than the other modes, based on a history of processes executed in a device having multiple modes that differ in the time until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of processes executed in each of at least two of the multiple modes, and a target value of the time until the device can execute a process.

[0021] The invention of claim 15 is an information processing method in which a processor outputs a set value of a transition time until the device transitions to one of the multiple modes that takes longer to become able to execute a process than the other modes, based on a history of processes executed in a device having multiple modes that differ in the time until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of processes executed in each of at least two of the multiple modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device. [Effects of the Invention]

[0022] According to the inventions of claims 1, 2, 3, 4, 14, and 15, it is possible to suppress a decrease in the power saving effect compared to when the transition time until the device transitions to a mode among multiple modes that takes longer to be able to execute processing than other modes is constant.

[0023] According to the invention of claim 5, it is possible to output the set value of the transition time without using the number of times the process has been executed in the first mode.

[0024] According to the invention of claim 6, the set value of the transition time can be output without counting the number of times the process for each mode is executed.

[0025] According to the invention of claim 7, the set value of the transition time can be output based on the operation history of the user interface.

[0026] According to the invention of claim 8, even if the number of operations on the user interface is equal to or less than the threshold value, the set value of the transition time can be output.

[0027] According to the invention of claim 9, the set value of the transition time can be calculated using a cumulative exponential distribution function.

[0028] According to the invention of claim 10, even if data cannot be collected for a number of processing times equal to or greater than the threshold value, the mode transition can be controlled using the same set value.

[0029] According to the invention of claim 11, it is possible to estimate a change in the environment in which the device is used by using the set value of the transition time.

[0030] According to the inventions set forth in claims 12 and 13, it is possible to improve the effect of saving power compared to a case in which the target value is not changed depending on whether or not a function is operating. [Brief explanation of the drawings]

[0031] [Figure 1] 1 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment; [Figure 2] FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating various modes of the image forming apparatus. [Figure 3] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the relationship between the actual ratio and the simplification ratio. [Figure 4] 1 is a graph showing a cumulative exponential distribution. [Figure 5] FIG. 10 is a graph showing the relationship between transition time and ratio. [Figure 6] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the results of specific example 1. [Figure 7] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the results of specific example 2. [Figure 8] FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the results of specific example 3. [Figure 9] FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to a second modification. [Figure 10]FIG. 10 is a graph showing changes over time such as transition time. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0032] An image forming apparatus 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 1. Fig. 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the embodiment.

[0033] The image forming device 10 includes an image forming unit 12, a UI 14, a communication device 16, a memory 18, and a processor 20. The image forming device 10 is a printer, a scanner, a copier, a facsimile, or a multifunction device (e.g., a device having the functions of multiple devices such as a printer, a scanner, and a copier).

[0034] The image forming unit 12 has at least one function selected from the group consisting of a print function, a scan function, a copy function, and a facsimile function. The print method and the scan method are not particularly limited. For example, the print method may be an electrophotographic method, an inkjet method, a thermal method, or a thermal transfer method.

[0035] The UI 14 is a user interface and includes a display and an input device. The display is a liquid crystal display, an EL display, or the like. The input device is a keyboard, a mouse, input keys, an operation panel, or the like. The UI 14 may be a UI such as a touch panel (for example, an operation panel) that combines a display and an input device.

[0036] The communication device 16 includes one or more communication interfaces having a communication chip, a communication circuit, etc., and has a function of transmitting information to other devices and a function of receiving information from other devices. The communication device 16 may have a wireless communication function such as short-range wireless communication or Wi-Fi (registered trademark), or may have a wired communication function.

[0037] The memory 18 is a device that configures one or more storage areas for storing data. The memory 18 is, for example, a hard disk drive (HDD), a solid state drive (SSD), various types of memory (e.g., RAM, DRAM, NVRAM, ROM, etc.), other storage devices (e.g., optical disks, etc.), or a combination thereof.

[0038] The processor 20 controls the operation of each part of the image forming apparatus 10 .

[0039] Image forming apparatus 10 has a plurality of modes that differ in the time it takes for a process to be executed. The time it takes for a process to be executed can be considered the time the user is waiting for the process to be executed, and therefore can be considered a waiting time for the user.

[0040] For example, the multiple modes include a ready mode (hereinafter referred to as "ready mode") and a power-saving mode. The power-saving mode is a mode in which the time until processing can be executed (i.e., the standby time) is longer than that in the ready mode. The power-saving mode may include multiple modes with different times until processing can be executed.

[0041] The ready mode is a mode in which the image forming apparatus 10 is waiting to execute a process. The ready mode is a mode in which the image forming apparatus 10 has completed warm-up and is supplied with power, enabling the image forming apparatus 10 to execute a process, but is not executing a process. For example, the process may be a print job, a scan job, a copy job, a job to transfer image data generated by scanning to an external device, or a job to store image data generated by scanning in the image forming apparatus 10. Of course, these processes are merely examples, and other processes may be executed by the image forming apparatus 10. A process executed by a user operating the UI 14 may be a process according to this embodiment.

[0042] The power saving mode is a mode in which power is not supplied to some of the components constituting the image forming apparatus 10, or a mode in which power lower than that in the ready mode is supplied to some or all of the components constituting the image forming apparatus 10. The power consumed in the power saving mode is less than the power consumed in the ready mode.

[0043] Hereinafter, the time it takes for the image forming device 10 to transition from the ready mode to the power saving mode will be referred to as the “transition time.” A set value for the transition time is stored in the memory 18, and the processor 20 transitions the image forming device 10 from the ready mode to the power saving mode in accordance with the transition time.

[0044] For example, when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the ready mode, if a transition time has elapsed since the image forming apparatus 10 last performed a process (for example, the time the process was completed) or since the image forming apparatus 10 was last operated by a user, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the power saving mode. In other words, if the time during which the image forming apparatus 10 is not executing a process such as a job or the UI 14 is not operated by a user is equal to or longer than the transition time, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the power saving mode.

[0045] When the image forming device 10 is in the ready mode, if the user instructs the transition to power saving mode (for example, when a power saving button provided on the image forming device 10 is pressed), the processor 20 may transition the mode of the image forming device 10 from the ready mode to the power saving mode.

[0046] When a specific event occurs while the image forming apparatus 10 is in the power saving mode, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the power saving mode to the ready mode, thereby returning the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to the ready mode.

[0047] The specific event is an event that corresponds to a return instruction. For example, the specific event is an operation of the UI 14, acceptance of a job, acceptance of an instruction to execute a job, or pressing of the return button. These are merely examples of the specific event, and other events may also be defined as the specific event.

[0048] For example, when the UI 14 is operated by the user, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the power saving mode to the ready mode.

[0049] When image forming apparatus 10 receives an instruction to execute a process, processor 20 may transition the mode of image forming apparatus 10 from power saving mode to ready mode. For example, when a print job is sent to image forming apparatus 10 from an external device and processor 20 accepts the print job, processor 20 determines that a specific event has occurred and transitions the mode of image forming apparatus 10 from power saving mode to ready mode. Processor 20 executes the print job by controlling image forming unit 12 in accordance with the accepted print job.

[0050] In the case where a return button is provided on an operation panel or the like of the image forming apparatus 10, when the return button is pressed, the processor 20 may cause the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to transition from the power saving mode to the ready mode.

[0051] When the power saving mode includes a plurality of different modes, a transition time is set for each individual mode, and the set value of each transition time is stored in the memory 18.

[0052] For example, the power saving mode includes a Low Power mode (hereinafter referred to as an "LP mode") and a Sleep mode (hereinafter referred to as an "SP mode").

[0053] In LP mode, the time until processing can be executed (i.e., standby time) is longer than in ready mode. In SP mode, the time until processing can be executed (i.e., standby time) is longer than in LP mode. The power consumed in SP mode is less than the power consumed in LP mode. In other words, SP mode is a mode that achieves a greater power saving effect than LP mode. Ready mode corresponds to an example of the first mode, LP mode corresponds to an example of the second mode, and SP mode corresponds to an example of the third mode.

[0054] In the ready mode, power is supplied to each unit of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, power is supplied to the image forming unit 12, the UI 14, the communication device 16, the memory 18, and the processor 20, and the image forming apparatus 10 is in a state where it can execute processes such as a print job.

[0055] In the LP mode, less power is supplied to each unit of the image forming apparatus 10 than in the ready mode. For example, in the LP mode, power is not supplied to the scanner included in the image forming unit 12 and the operation panel included in the UI 14, or the power supplied to the scanner and the UI 14 is less than the power supplied in the ready mode. For example, if the operation panel has a backlight, the backlight is turned off. In the LP mode, power is supplied to the memory 18 and the processor 20.

[0056] In the SP mode, less power is supplied to each unit of the image forming apparatus 10 than in the LP mode. For example, in the SP mode, no power is supplied to the image forming unit 12 and the UI 14, or the power supplied to the image forming unit 12 and the UI 14 is less than the power supplied in the LP mode. Also, the power supplied to the memory 18 and the processor 20 may be less than the power supplied in the LP mode.

[0057] The power supply modes in the Ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode described above are merely examples, and other power supply modes may be implemented. Furthermore, the power supply mode in each mode may be set by the user.

[0058] For example, the processor 20 changes the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 in the order of the ready mode, the LP mode, and the SP mode.

[0059] A set value of a first transition time (hereinafter referred to as "LP transition time") required for the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to transition from the ready mode to the LP mode is stored in the memory 18, and the LP transition time is set in the image forming apparatus 10. The LP transition time is the time from the start of the ready mode to the start of the LP mode.

[0060] A set value of a second transition time (hereinafter referred to as "SP transition time") required for the image forming apparatus 10 to transition from the ready mode to the SP mode is stored in the memory 18, and the SP transition time is set in the image forming apparatus 10. The SP transition time is the time from the start of the ready mode to the start of the SP mode. The SP transition time is set to be the same as or longer than the LP transition time. As a result, the image forming apparatus 10 often transitions between the ready mode, the LP mode, and the SP mode in that order. When the SP transition time and the LP transition time are the same, the image forming apparatus 10 transitions to the SP mode without transitioning from the ready mode to the LP mode. Note that the SP transition time may be the time from the start of the LP mode to the start of the SP mode.

[0061] When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the ready mode, if the time during which no processing is performed by the image forming apparatus 10 or no user operation is performed on the UI 14 exceeds the LP transition time, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the LP mode. In other words, if the LP transition time has elapsed since the last processing or operation was performed, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the LP mode. When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, if a specific event that causes a return occurs, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the ready mode.

[0062] The processor 20 may also transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the LP mode when the time during which the image forming apparatus 10 is not performing any processing or the time during which the UI 14 is not operated by the user is less than the LP transition time. For example, if the processor 20 accepts a print job from an external device while the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the ready mode and executes the print job. After the print job processing is completed, the processor 20 may return the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to the power saving mode (LP mode) that was in effect when the processor 20 accepted the print job, without waiting for the LP transition time to elapse. In other words, if the processor 20 accepts a print job while the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 is promptly returned to the LP mode after the print job is completed.

[0063] When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, if the time during which no processing is performed by the image forming apparatus 10 or no user operation is performed on the UI 14 exceeds the SP transition time, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the SP mode. In other words, if the SP transition time has elapsed since the last processing or operation was performed, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the SP mode. When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the SP mode, if a specific event that causes a return occurs, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the SP mode to the ready mode.

[0064] The processor 20 may also transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the SP mode when the period during which the image forming apparatus 10 is not performing any processing or the user is not operating the UI 14 does not exceed the SP transition time. For example, if the processor 20 accepts a print job from an external device while the image forming apparatus 10 is in the SP mode, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the SP mode to the ready mode and executes the print job. After completing the print job processing, the processor 20 may return the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to the power saving mode (SP mode) that was in effect when the processor 20 accepted the print job, without waiting for the SP transition time to elapse. In other words, if the processor 20 accepts a print job while the image forming apparatus 10 is in the SP mode, the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 is promptly returned to the SP mode after the print job is completed.

[0065] The time required to transition from power saving mode to ready mode (i.e., standby time) differs for each power saving mode. In SP mode, less power is supplied than in LP mode. Therefore, the time required to transition from SP mode to ready mode is longer than the time required to transition from LP mode to ready mode.

[0066] The LP mode and the SP mode are merely examples of power saving modes, and the image forming apparatus 10 may have three or more different power saving modes. Of course, the image forming apparatus 10 may have only one power saving mode.

[0067] Fig. 2 shows the power consumed in each of the ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode. In Fig. 2, the horizontal axis represents time, and the vertical axis represents power consumption. As an example, it is assumed that a job is executed as the process.

[0068] For example, when job 1 (e.g., a print job) is executed by image forming apparatus 10 and the execution of job 1 is completed, the mode of image forming apparatus 10 transitions to ready mode. When the LP transition time has elapsed since the execution of job 1 was completed without any job or operation being performed, processor 20 transitions the mode of image forming apparatus 10 from ready mode to LP mode. Furthermore, when the SP transition time has elapsed since the execution of job 1 was completed without any job or operation being performed, processor 20 transitions the mode of image forming apparatus 10 from LP mode to SP mode.

[0069] When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the SP mode, if a specific event that causes a return occurs (for example, when the UI 14 is operated or when the processor 20 accepts a job), the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the SP mode to the ready mode. When the processor 20 accepts a job (for example, job 2), the processor 20 executes the accepted job 2. The time from when the SP mode ends to when the execution of job 2 starts corresponds to the standby time in the SP mode.

[0070] When the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, if a specific event that causes a return occurs, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the ready mode. The time from the end of the LP mode to the start of job execution corresponds to the standby time in the LP mode.

[0071] For example, the standby time in SP mode is 3 seconds, and the standby time in LP mode is 1 second or less. Also, when the image forming device 10 is in ready mode, the time required until a job is executed (i.e., the time equivalent to the standby time in ready mode) is 1 second or less. These times are merely examples and may vary depending on the type, functions, performance, etc. of the image forming device 10.

[0072] Generally, the longer the transition time, such as the LP transition time or the SP transition time, the longer the time it takes for the image forming apparatus 10 to transition to the LP mode or the SP mode, improving user convenience. On the other hand, more standby power is generated, reducing energy efficiency. Conversely, shortening the transition time improves energy efficiency but reduces user convenience. It is conceivable that the user could set the transition time depending on the usage status of the image forming apparatus 10 (for example, the frequency of job execution, etc.), but it is difficult to achieve both improved convenience and improved energy efficiency through user settings.

[0073] In this embodiment, the processor 20 manages a history indicating the number of processes executed in each of at least two modes (hereinafter referred to as the "processing history"). Information indicating the processing history is stored in the memory 18. Based on the processing history and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the image forming apparatus 10, the processor 20 outputs a set value for the transition time until the image forming apparatus 10 transitions to a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in other modes. For example, the set value is stored in the memory 18. The processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 to a mode in which the time until the process can be executed is longer than in other modes in accordance with the set value. The set value for the transition time may be a set value for the SP transition time, a set value for the LP transition time, or a set value for both the SP transition time and the LP transition time. For example, the target value for the ratio of a specific process corresponds to the convenience when a user uses the image forming apparatus 10. For example, this convenience is evaluated from the perspective of whether the image forming apparatus 10 can be used with a shorter waiting time. The target value of the ratio of a specific process is a target value corresponding to the ratio of the number of times of the process, which will be described later.

[0074] The number of processes may be the number of processes executed by operating UI14, or the number of processes for print jobs instructed remotely via a network, or the total number of processes executed by operating UI14 and the number of processes for print jobs instructed remotely.

[0075] For example, the processing history is the number of times a process was executed during a predetermined period.

[0076] Hereinafter, the number of times a process is executed in ready mode will be referred to as "R", the number of times a process is executed in LP mode will be referred to as "LP", and the number of times a process is executed in SP mode will be referred to as "SP".

[0077] For example, the processing history may be the number of processes executed in all modes. In other words, in this case, the processing history is the total number of processes executed in ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode. Hereinafter, this total number will be referred to as the total number of processes. Total number of processes = R + LP + SP

[0078] The processing history may also be the total number of times processing has been performed in power-saving mode. In other words, in this case, the processing history is the total number of times processing has been performed in LP mode and the total number of times processing has been performed in SP mode. Hereinafter, this total number will be referred to as the number of times processing has been performed in power-saving mode. Number of times processing has been performed in power-saving mode = LP + S

[0079] The predetermined period may be specified by a user, for example, the predetermined period may be an hourly period, a daily period, a weekly period, a monthly period, or any other period.

[0080] If the number of times the UI 14 is operated during the period is equal to or less than a predetermined number of times, the first history may be the number of times a job such as a print job or a copy job was executed, or the total number of times.

[0081] For example, the processor 20 counts the number of times a process has been executed in at least two of the ready mode, the LP mode, and the SP mode, and stores information indicating the number of times a process has been executed in each mode (i.e., information indicating the processing history) in the memory 18.

[0082] The number of processes executed in the ready mode is the number of processes executed when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the ready mode.

[0083] The number of processes executed in the LP mode is the number of processes executed when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, in other words, the number of times a specific event occurs when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode. For example, when the image forming apparatus 10 is in the LP mode, the number of times the UI 14 is operated to transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the ready mode, the number of times a job is accepted by the processor 20 to transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the ready mode, etc. are the number of processes executed in the LP mode.

[0084] The number of processes executed in SP mode is the number of processes executed when the image forming apparatus 10 is in SP mode, in other words, the number of times a specific event occurs when the image forming apparatus 10 is in SP mode. For example, when the image forming apparatus 10 is in SP mode, the number of times the UI 14 is operated to transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from SP mode to ready mode, the number of times a job is accepted by the processor 20 to transition the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from SP mode to ready mode, etc. are the number of processes executed in SP mode.

[0085] The target value may be determined in advance, may be specified by the user, or may be a value calculated by learning for calculating the target value.

[0086] The output setting value may be the setting value of the LP transition time, the setting value of the SP transition time, or both the values ​​of the LP transition time and the SP transition time.

[0087] If the output setting value is the setting value for the LP transition time, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to the LP mode in accordance with the output setting value. If the output setting value is the setting value for the SP transition time, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the LP mode to the SP mode in accordance with the output setting value.

[0088] When only one of the LP mode and the SP mode is set as the power saving mode, the output setting value is the setting value of the transition time for that mode. In this case, the processor 20 transitions the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 from the ready mode to that mode in accordance with the setting value.

[0089] For example, the processing history may be the ratio of the number of times a processing is executed in each of at least two modes. An example of this ratio is shown below. Ratio 1:(R+LP) / (R+LP+SP) Ratio 2: LP / (LP+SP) Here, R, LP, and SP are, as described above, the number of times processing was performed in ready mode, the number of times processing was performed in LP mode, and the number of times processing was performed in SP mode, respectively.

[0090] The above ratios 1 and 2 each correspond to a value representing the convenience for a user of the image forming apparatus 10. Specifically, each of ratios 1 and 2 is the ratio of the number of processes whose wait time is equal to or less than a threshold value. For example, the threshold value is 1 second. This threshold value is merely an example and is determined based on the type, functions, performance, etc. of the image forming apparatus 10. For example, since the wait time in the ready mode and the wait time in the LP mode are equal to or less than 1 second, the threshold value is set to 1 second. If these wait times change, the threshold value is set accordingly. If the threshold value is set to 1 second, each of ratios 1 and 2 corresponds to the ratio of processes whose wait time is equal to or less than 1 second. The higher ratio 1 is, the more processes whose wait time is equal to or less than 1 second, which means that the user's convenience is higher in that processes are executed more quickly. The same is true for ratio 2. Therefore, ratios 1 and 2 can be said to represent the user's convenience.

[0091] Ratio 1 is the ratio of the number of processes whose waiting time is equal to or less than the threshold to the number of processes executed in all modes. The number of processes executed in all modes is the total number of processes executed in ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode. The number of processes for which the waiting time is equal to or less than the threshold is the total number of processes executed in the ready mode and the number of processes executed in the LP mode.

[0092] Ratio 2 is a ratio calculated without using the number of processes executed in ready mode, and is a simplified version of ratio 1. Ratio 2 can be considered a simplified ratio. The number of processes executed in LP mode is counted by counting the number of times the image forming device 10 returns from LP mode to ready mode. The number of times the image forming device 10 returns from SP mode to ready mode is counted. In contrast, for ready mode, the number of processes actually executed in ready mode is counted, rather than the number of times the mode returns. For example, when processes (e.g., print jobs) are executed consecutively in ready mode, it may be difficult to accurately count the number of consecutively executed processes because no transition between modes occurs. In other words, it may be difficult to determine whether the consecutively executed processes were executed once or multiple times. By using ratio 2, it is not necessary to count the number of processes executed in ready mode.

[0093] The user may select the ratio to be used from Ratio 1 and Ratio 2, or the ratio to be used may be determined in advance.

[0094] Here, the relationship between ratio 1 and ratio 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 3. Fig. 3 shows a graph illustrating the relationship between ratio 1 and ratio 2. The horizontal axis represents ratio 1, which is the actual ratio. The vertical axis represents ratio 2, which is the simplified ratio. As shown in Fig. 3, there is a correlation between ratio 1 and ratio 2, so by calculating ratio 2, it is possible to calculate the ratio of the number of processes whose waiting time is equal to or less than the threshold value, without calculating ratio 1.

[0095] For example, the processor 20 calculates the set value of the transition time from the processing history and the target value by using a cumulative exponential distribution function.

[0096] The cumulative exponential distribution function will be described with reference to Fig. 4. Fig. 4 shows an example of the cumulative exponential distribution function. The horizontal axis indicates the time (minutes) until the next use of the image forming device 10, and the vertical axis indicates the cumulative occurrence probability f(t).

[0097] The cumulative occurrence probability f(t) is the probability that an event occurs an average of λ times within a unit time, and is expressed by the following equation (1). f(t)=1-e^(-λt) (1) t is time (hours).

[0098] The time until the next use of the image forming device 10 corresponds to the transition time (e.g., SP transition time). The cumulative occurrence probability corresponds to the probability that the image forming device 10 can be used without transitioning to the SP mode, and specifically corresponds to the above-mentioned ratio (e.g., ratio 1 or ratio 2).

[0099] Although the distribution (e.g., the relationship between the SP transition time and the ratio) obtained when the image forming apparatus 10 is actually used does not match the ideal cumulative exponential distribution, the actual distribution is close to the ideal cumulative exponential distribution. In this embodiment, for example, the processor 20 estimates the cumulative exponential distribution function by learning such as machine learning, and calculates the set value of the transition time by using the estimated cumulative exponential distribution function.

[0100] The processor 20 estimates a cumulative exponential function based on the processing history during the learning period and calculates a set value for the transition time. The learning period is a predetermined period, such as a period measured in hours (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours, etc.), a period measured in days (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, etc.), a period measured in weeks (e.g., 1 week, 2 weeks, etc.), or a period measured in months (e.g., 1 month, 2 months, etc.). The processor 20 controls the mode transition of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the calculated transition time. After the learning period, the processor 20 learns the cumulative exponential function for each unit control period and updates the set value for the transition time. The unit control period is a predetermined period, such as a period measured in hours (e.g., 1 hour, 2 hours, etc.), a period measured in days (e.g., 1 day, 2 days, etc.), a period measured in weeks (e.g., 1 week, 2 weeks, etc.), or a period measured in months (e.g., 1 month, 2 months, etc.).

[0101] The processor 20 counts the number of times a process is executed in each of the ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode during the learning period. For example, for the LP mode and the SP mode, the processor 20 counts the number of times the LP mode transitioned to the ready mode during the learning period (i.e., the number of times the LP mode was returned from) and the number of times the SP mode transitioned to the ready mode during the learning period (i.e., the number of times the SP mode was returned from). Note that the number of times a process is executed is not limited to the number of times a job is executed, and the number of times the UI 14 is operated may also be included in the number of times a process is executed. In other words, the number of times the mode transitioned to the ready mode by operating the UI 14 may also be included in the number of times a process is executed.

[0102] For example, processor 20 calculates ratio 1 (= (R+LP) / (R+LP+SP)) based on the number of processes executed during the learning period. Processor 20 may also calculate ratio 2 (= LP / (LP+SP)), which is a simplified ratio. When ratio 2 is used, the number of processes executed in ready mode does not need to be counted. Here, ratio 1 is used as an example.

[0103] Note that extreme values ​​may be used to avoid invalidating the calculation of the cumulative index. For example, if ratio 1 exceeds 0.99 (i.e., if ratio 1 exceeds 99%), processor 20 may use 0.99 (i.e., 99%) as ratio 1. Also, if ratio 1 is less than 0.01 (i.e., if ratio 1 is less than 1%), processor 20 may use 0.01 (i.e., 1%) as ratio 1.

[0104] The processor 20 sets the target value. For example, the processor 20 sets the target value to a value obtained by subtracting a predetermined value from the ratio of 1 during the learning period, as shown in the following formula (2). For example, the predetermined value is 0.1 (i.e., 10%). Note that the predetermined value may be set by the user. Target value = Ratio during the study period 1 - 0.1 (2)

[0105] As mentioned above, a ratio of 1 can be said to represent the user's convenience, so subtracting a predetermined value (e.g., 0.1) from the ratio during the learning period means reducing the convenience by that value.

[0106] If the target value is less than 0.01 (that is, less than 1%), the processor 20 sets the target value to 0.01 (that is, 1%).

[0107] For example, if Ratio 1 is 13%, the target value is 3%. If Ratio 1 is 12%, the target value is 2%. If Ratio 1 is 11%, the target value is 1%. If Ratio 1 is 10%, the target value is 1%. If Ratio 1 is 9%, the target value is 1%.

[0108] By using the cumulative exponential distribution function, the ratio (for example, ratio 1 or ratio 2) is expressed by the following equation (3). Ratio = 1-e^(-λ × SP transition time setting) (3)

[0109] λ is the average number of times an event occurs within a unit time, and is calculated by dividing the number of processes executed in the most recent period (e.g., the most recent week) (total number of processes = R + LP + SP) by the corresponding usage time (e.g., the value obtained by converting the usage time in the most recent week into hours).

[0110] The usage time may be calculated by determining an average usage time per day (for example, 8 hours / day) in advance and multiplying this by the number of days of usage, or may be calculated from the power-on time of the image forming apparatus 10, etc.

[0111] Furthermore, by transforming equation (3), the following equation (4) is obtained, so λ can be calculated by substituting the set value of the SP transition time for the most recent period (for example, the most recent week) and the ratio during that period (for example, ratio 1) into equation (4). λ=log e (1-ratio) / (SP transition time setting) (4)

[0112] It is also possible to use the number of processes executed in the most recent period (for example, the most recent week) as the number of processes in the power saving mode (LP+SP).

[0113] Equation (5) can be obtained by transforming equation (3). SP transition time setting value = -log e (1-ratio) / λ···(5)

[0114] Processor 20 calculates the setting value of the SP transition time to make ratio 1 for the next week the target value (i.e., ratio 1 during the learning period - 0.1) based on equation (5). The following equation (6) is an equation for calculating the setting value. Next week's SP migration time setting value = -log e (1-target value) / λ (6)

[0115] The processor 20 rounds off the set value of the SP transition time for next week to the nearest integer.

[0116] The processor 20 may correct the set value of the SP transition time for the next week obtained by equation (6).

[0117] If the initial value of the SP transition time is less than the set value of the SP transition time for the next week, the processor 20 replaces the set value of the SP transition time for the next week with the initial value and continues automatic control. If the initial value is 60 and this condition is met, the set value of the SP transition time for the next week is 60.

[0118] If the set value for the SP transition time for next week falls below the lower limit value for which the SP transition time can be set, processor 20 replaces the set value for the SP transition time for next week with the lower limit value and continues automatic control. For example, the lower limit value for which the SP transition time can be set is 1. This condition applies when the set value for the SP transition time for next week is 0, that is, when the set value before rounding is less than 0.5. In this case, the set value for the SP transition time for next week is 1.

[0119] If 1≦next week's SP transition time setting value≦initial value, the processor 20 controls the image forming apparatus 10 in accordance with the calculated next week's SP transition time setting value.

[0120] If the number of processes (e.g., the total of the number of times processes were executed in the ready mode, the number of times processes were executed in the LP mode, and the number of times processes were executed in the SP mode) during a first unit control period (e.g., this week) is less than a threshold, the processor 20 may determine that the first unit control period is an invalid period. For example, the threshold is 25. The threshold may be set by the user. For example, if the first unit control period is one week, and the number of processes during that week is less than 25, the processor 20 determines that the period is an invalid period. For example, if the unit control period is determined to be an invalid period, the processor 20 may use the setting value for this week as the setting value for next week. For example, if the number of processes is less than the threshold, it is assumed that the usage of the image forming apparatus 10 has changed due to consecutive holidays, a long vacation, etc.

[0121] In this way, when the number of processes during a first unit control period (e.g., this week) is less than a threshold value (e.g., 25 times), processor 20 outputs the set value of the transition time during the first unit control period as the set value of the transition time during a second unit control period (e.g., next week). In other words, processor 20 sets the set value of the transition time for this week as the set value of the transition time for next week.

[0122] Below, specific examples of learning and control after learning will be described. First, a specific example of learning will be described, and then a specific example of automatic mode control using the learning results will be described. Note that each value described below is merely an example, and each value may change depending on the usage environment of image forming apparatus 10, the user's circumstances, the functions of image forming apparatus 10, etc.

[0123] <Learning steps> (Step S01: At the start) The processor 20 counts the number of processes executed in each of the ready mode, LP mode, and SP mode during the learning period (i.e., the number of returns). The number of processes is not limited to the number of times a job is executed, but also includes the number of times the UI 14 is operated. For example, the learning period is generally one week. As an exception, the learning period may be extended in one-week increments.

[0124] The SP transition time during the learning period uses the default setting value. Note that the default setting value may be used for the LP transition time during the learning period, or the shortest possible time may be used if the LP transition time has little impact on convenience. For example, the time required for a job to be executed in ready mode (i.e., the time equivalent to the waiting time in ready mode) is 1 second or less. The waiting time in SP mode is 3 seconds, while the waiting time in LP mode is 1 second or less. In other words, since the waiting time in LP mode is 1 second or less, the same as in ready mode, the shortest LP transition time of 1 is used here as the LP transition time during learning.

[0125] (Step S02: 1 week later) Processor 20 determines the validity of the number of treatments counted during the first learning period (i.e., first week) according to the following criteria: {Number of processes executed in Ready mode + Number of processes executed in LP mode (i.e., number of returns from LP mode) + Number of processes executed in SP mode (i.e., number of returns from SP mode)} ≥ 25 times: Valid {Number of processes executed in Ready mode + Number of processes executed in LP mode (i.e., number of returns from LP mode) + Number of processes executed in SP mode (i.e., number of returns from SP mode)} < 25 times: Invalid

[0126] If the counted number of processes is valid, processor 20 stores the value of the number of returns from LP mode and the value of the number of returns from SP mode in memory 18 as first week performance values.

[0127] If the counted number is invalid, processor 20 discards the value of the counted number during the learning period and extends the learning period to the next week. If the number of processes is less than a threshold (e.g., 25 times), it is assumed that the usage of image forming device 10 has changed due to consecutive holidays, long vacations, etc. In this case, in order to prevent the influence of this change from being reflected in the next week, the value of the counted number is discarded and the learning period is extended to the next week.

[0128] (Step S03: 2 weeks later) The processor 20 determines the validity of the counted number of times during the next learning period (i.e., the second week) according to the same criteria as in step S02.

[0129] If the counted number is valid and the first week performance value is stored in memory 18, processor 20 stores the second week performance value (i.e., the sum of the number of processes executed in ready mode, the number of returns from LP mode, and the number of returns from SP mode counted during the second week) in memory 18. Processor 20 ends learning and sets the target value. The process proceeds to step S05 without proceeding to step S04.

[0130] If the counted number is valid and the first week performance value is not stored in memory 18, the second week performance value is stored as the first week performance value in memory 18. Processor 20 extends the learning period to the next week and continues learning. The process proceeds to step S04.

[0131] If the counted number is invalid, the processor 20 discards the value of the counted number for that week, extends the learning period to the next week, and continues learning. The process proceeds to step S04.

[0132] (Step S04: Another week later) The processor 20 further determines the validity of the counted number during the next learning period (i.e., the third week) according to the same criteria as in step S02.

[0133] If the counted number is valid and the first week actual value is stored in memory 18, processor 20 stores the third week actual value (i.e., the sum of the number of processes executed in ready mode, the number of returns from LP mode, and the number of returns from SP mode counted during the third week) as the second week actual value in memory 18. Processor 20 ends learning and sets the target value. The process proceeds to step S05.

[0134] If the counted number of times is valid and the first week performance value is not stored in memory 18, the third week performance value is stored in memory 18 as the first week performance value. Processor 20 extends the learning period to the next week and continues learning. For example, processor 20 executes the same process as step S04 based on the number of times counted in the next week.

[0135] If the counted number is invalid, the processor 20 discards the value of the counted number for that week, extends the learning period to the next week, and continues learning.

[0136] The processor 20 may repeatedly execute the process of step S04.

[0137] (Step S05: Setting the target value) Processor 20 calculates the ratio 1(R+LP) / (R+LP+SP). The number of processes executed in ready mode, which is included in the first week performance value and the second week performance value, is used as R. The number of returns from LP mode, which is included in the first week performance value and the second week performance value, is used as LP. The number of returns from SP mode, which is included in the first week performance value and the second week performance value, is used as SP. The number of processes executed in ready mode, which is included in the first week performance value or the second week performance value, may be used as R. The number of returns from LP mode, which is included in the first week performance value or the second week performance value, may be used as LP. The number of returns from SP mode, which is included in the first week performance value or the second week performance value, may be used as SP.

[0138] For example, processor 20 may use 0.99 as ratio 1 if ratio 1 is greater than 0.99 (i.e., 99%), and may use 0.01 as ratio 1 if ratio 1 is less than 0.01 (i.e., 1%).

[0139] Next, the processor 20 calculates the target value according to the above-mentioned formula (2). In this case, if the calculated target value is less than the lower limit value (for example, 0.01), the processor 20 sets the lower limit value as the target value.

[0140] <Automatic control steps> (Step S11: At the start) Once the target value is calculated in the learning step, the processor 20 then calculates a set value for the transition time. Here, as an example, the processor 20 calculates the set value for the SP transition time. Of course, the processor 20 may calculate the set values ​​for both the SP transition time and the SP transition time, or may calculate only the set value for the LP transition time.

[0141] (1) Calculating the cumulative exponential distribution function λ First, the processor 20 calculates λ of the cumulative exponential distribution function according to the following equation (7). λ = total number of processes during the learning period (2 weeks) (R + LP + SP) / time used during the learning period (7) The usage time during the learning period may be calculated by multiplying a predetermined average usage time (e.g., 8 hours / day) by the number of days of usage, or may be calculated from the power-on time of the image forming apparatus 10. The setting value of the SP transition time during the learning period here is the initial setting value of the SP transition time.

[0142] (2) Calculating the SP transition time setting Next, the processor 20 calculates the setting value of the SP transition time by substituting λ calculated by the above equation (7) and the target value into the following equation (8). SP transition time setting value = -log e (1-target value) / λ (8) The target value here is the value calculated by the above-mentioned formula (2). Furthermore, the processor 20 rounds off the set value of the SP transition time to the nearest integer.

[0143] (3) Correction of setting values The processor 20 may also correct the set value of the SP transition time. For example, if the set value of the SP transition time is greater than the initial value, the processor 20 sets the set value of the SP transition time to the initial value. If the set value of the SP transition time is 0, the processor 20 sets the set value of the SP transition time to 1.

[0144] The processor 20 controls the mode transition of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the above set values. The processor 20 counts the number of processes executed in the ready mode and the number of processes executed in each of the LP mode and the SP mode (i.e., the number of returns) during a unit control period (here, one week as an example). The number of processes is not limited to the number of times a job is executed, but also includes the number of times the UI 14 is operated.

[0145] (Step S12: 1 week later) (1) Determining the validity of data The processor 20 determines the validity of the number of processes counted during the most recent week according to the following criteria. {Number of processes executed in Ready mode in the past week + Number of processes executed in LP mode in the past week (i.e., number of times returned from LP mode) + Number of processes executed in SP mode in the past week (i.e., number of times returned from SP mode)} ≥ 25 times: Valid {Number of processes executed in Ready mode in the past week + Number of processes executed in LP mode in the past week (i.e., number of times returned from LP mode) + Number of processes executed in SP mode in the past week (i.e., number of times returned from SP mode)} < 25 times: Disabled

[0146] If the counted number of processes is valid, the processor 20 executes the processes from step S12(2) onwards, which will be described below.

[0147] If the counted number of processes is invalid, the processor 20 discards the value of the number of times counted in the most recent week and does not execute the processes in step S12(2) and thereafter. In this case, the processor 20 sets the setting value of the SP transition time used this week as the setting value for next week, and continues control.

[0148] (2) Calculating the cumulative exponential distribution function λ If the data is determined to be valid in step S12(1) above, the processor 20 executes the processes from step S12(2) onwards. The processor 20 calculates λ of the cumulative exponential distribution function according to the following equation (9). λ = total number of processes in the last week (R + LP + SP) / usage time in the last week (9) The usage time in the last week may be calculated by multiplying a predetermined average usage time (for example, 8 hours / day) by the number of days of usage, or may be calculated from the power-on time of the image forming apparatus 10, etc.

[0149] (3) Calculating the SP transition time setting Next, the processor 20 calculates the set value of the SP transition time for the next week by substituting λ calculated by the above formula (9) and the actual value of the ratio 1 for the most recent week into the following formula (10). Set value of SP transition time for next week = -log e (1 - ratio 1 for the most recent week) / λ ··· (10) The processor 20 rounds the first decimal place of the set value of the SP transition time to convert the set value to an integer.

[0150] (4) Branch processing based on the set value of the SP transition time The processor 20 executes the following processing according to the set value of the SP transition time for the next week calculated in step S12(3). (a) Initial value < SP transition time set value: The processor 20 replaces the set value of the SP transition time for the next week with the initial value and continues the automatic control. (b) 1 ≤ SP transition time set value < initial value: The processor 20 adopts the calculated set value of the SP transition time for the next week and continues the automatic control according to the set value. (c) SP transition time set value = 0: The processor 20 replaces the set value of the SP transition time for the next week with 1 and continues the automatic control.

[0151] When the above (a), (b), or (c) is applicable, the processor 20 controls the transition of the mode of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the calculated set value of the SP transition time for the next week in the next week.

[0152] (Step S13: One more week later) Thereafter, the processor 20 executes the processing of step S12 at the end of each week. Thus, the processor 20 repeats the processing of step S12 at the end of each week.

[0153] The relationship between ratio 1 and SP transition time will be described with reference to Fig. 5. Fig. 5 shows a graph illustrating this relationship. The horizontal axis represents the SP transition time, and the vertical axis represents the actual value of ratio 1. The functions representing the curves 22 to 30 are calculated, for example, by the above-mentioned formulas (9) and (10).

[0154] Curves 22 to 30 represent the relationship between ratio 1 and the set value of the SP transition time for each different week. The value of λ changes depending on how the image forming apparatus 10 is used and the environment in which it is used, and as a result, the shape of the curve changes. As a result, the transition time corresponding to the target value changes.

[0155] For example, if curve 22 is obtained by using image forming apparatus 10 in a certain week, the transition time corresponding to the target value of ratio 1 is transition time T1. In this case, processor 20 sets T1 as the set value of the SP transition time to control the mode transition of image forming apparatus 10. Similarly, if curve 28 is obtained, transition time T2 is used as the set value, and if curve 30 is obtained, transition time T3 is used as the set value. In this way, the set value of the transition time can be changed depending on how image forming apparatus 10 is used.

[0156] For example, the curve may change depending on how the image forming apparatus 10 is used, and the set value of the transition time may change. Specifically, the way the image forming apparatus 10 is used may change depending on busy periods, consecutive holidays, long vacations, etc., and as a result, the curve obtained may change. Furthermore, the curve may change depending on the usage environment of the image forming apparatus 10, and the set value of the transition time may change. Specifically, the curve obtained may change depending on the working hours, the type of work, the number of employees, etc. Even when the usage or the usage environment changes in this way, the set value of the transition time is calculated by learning, and the mode transition of the image forming apparatus 10 is controlled according to that set value.

[0157] The processor 20 may estimate a change in the environment of the image forming apparatus 10 based on a change in the setting value of the transition time. For example, if the difference between the setting value of the latest unit control period and the setting value of the immediately preceding unit control period is equal to or greater than a threshold, the processor 20 determines that the environment in which the image forming apparatus 10 is used has changed. The threshold is set in advance. The threshold may also be set by the user. If the difference is less than the threshold, the processor 20 determines that the environment in which the image forming apparatus 10 is used has changed. We conclude that this is not the case.

[0158] For example, if the processor 20 determines that the usage environment of the image forming device 10 has changed, it resets the learning and performs learning again, and if it determines that the usage environment of the image forming device 10 has not changed, it continues automatic control.

[0159] For example, if the usage environment of image forming apparatus 10 changes, the shape of the obtained curve, such as curve 30, will be significantly different from the shapes of other curves (e.g., curves 22 to 28). Therefore, even if the target value is the same, the transition time setting value obtained from curve 30 will be significantly different from the transition time setting values ​​obtained from curves other than curve 30 (e.g., curves 22 to 28). In other words, the difference between the transition time setting value obtained from curve 30 and the transition time setting value obtained from curves other than curve 30 will be equal to or greater than a threshold. In this way, by calculating the difference in the transition time setting values, it is possible to determine whether the usage environment of image forming apparatus 10 has changed.

[0160] The processor 20 may output information indicating that the usage environment of the image forming apparatus 10 has changed, or information indicating that the usage environment of the image forming apparatus 10 has not changed. For example, the processor 20 may display the information on the display of the UI 14.

[0161] <Example> Hereinafter, the results of executing the processing according to the above-described embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS.

[0162] (Example 1) Specific Example 1 will be described with reference to Fig. 6. Fig. 6 shows the time variation of the SP transition time, the time variation of ratios 1 and 2, and the time variation of the amount of power. The horizontal axis of each graph represents weeks. In Specific Example 1, the image forming apparatus 10 is operated 40 times per day between 9:00 and 18:00.

[0163] Graph 32 is a graph showing the change over time in SP transition time. Graph 34 is a graph showing the change over time in ratio 1. Graph 36 is a graph showing the change over time in ratio 1. Graph 38 is a graph showing the change over time in the amount of power other than the amount of power consumed in executing jobs.

[0164] As shown in FIG. 6, by using ratio 1, it is possible to control the mode transition of the image forming device 10. Furthermore, it is possible to shorten the SP transition time while maintaining the target ratio value. For example, over time, the SP transition time is shortened to 14 to 17 minutes. The ratio reflects convenience. Furthermore, the shorter the SP transition time, the earlier the image forming device 10 transitions to the SP mode, resulting in greater energy savings. In specific example 1, it is possible to improve energy savings while maintaining the target convenience. Furthermore, the amount of power consumed other than the amount of power consumed in job execution is reduced. Specifically, the amount of power is reduced by 22%.

[0165] (Example 2) Specific Example 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 7. FIG. 7 shows the change over time of the SP transition time (graph 40), the change over time of ratio 1 (graph 42), and the change over time of the amount of power (graph 44). The horizontal axis of each graph represents weeks. In Specific Example 2, the image forming device 10 is operated 40 times per day between 9:00 and 14:00. In Specific Example 2, the image forming device 10 is used intensively for a shorter period of time than in Specific Example 1.

[0166] The same effect as in Example 1 can be obtained in Example 2. In Example 2, the SP transition time is shortened to 7 to 8 minutes. The number of processes is the same in Example 1 and Example 2, but in Example 2, the image forming apparatus 10 is used intensively for a shorter period than in Example 1. This usage is reflected in the transition time, and the transition time in Example 2 is shorter than the transition time in Example 1. In addition, the amount of power consumed is reduced by 33%.

[0167] (Example 3) Specific example 3 will be described with reference to Fig. 8. Fig. 8 shows the change over time of the SP transition time (graph 46), the change over time of ratio 1 (graph 48), and the change over time of the amount of power (graph 50). The horizontal axis of each graph represents weeks.

[0168] In specific example 3, the usage of the image forming device 10 changes depending on the period. Figure 8 shows periods A, B, and C. Periods A and C are normal periods. In period A, the image forming device 10 is used 40 times per day. In period B, it is a busy period. In period B, the image forming device 10 is used 80 times per day.

[0169] In period A, the SP transition time is stable at 15 to 16 minutes. In period B, the SP transition time is shortened to 7 to 8 minutes. In period C, the SP transition time is stable at 15 to 16 minutes. In this way, the SP transition time is controlled in accordance with how the image forming apparatus 10 is used. In addition, the amount of power consumed is reduced by 26%.

[0170] (Variation 1) The first modification will be described below.

[0171] In the above-described embodiment, Ratio 1 or Ratio 2 is used as the ratio, but these are merely examples, and other ratios may be used. For example, Ratio 3 or Ratio 4 shown below may be used. Ratio 3: LP / SP Ratio 4:R / (R+LP+SP)

[0172] For example, ratio 4 may be used when the waiting time for returning from LP mode is set long. Ratio 4 may also be used when controlling the LP transition time without changing the SP transition time.

[0173] When the ratio of the number of executions of jobs with relatively short waiting times is relatively high, the processor 20 may calculate the ratio using the number of executions of jobs executed by operating the UI 14. When the ratio of the number of executions of jobs with relatively short waiting times is relatively low, the processor 20 may calculate the ratio using the number of executions of all jobs.

[0174] If the image forming apparatus 10 does not have the LP mode, the processor 20 may calculate the setting value of the SP transition time using the following ratio 5. In this case, the processor 20 controls the SP transition time. Ratio 5:R / (R+SP)

[0175] In the case where the image forming apparatus 10 has a fixing device, if the image forming apparatus 10 has a power saving mode for the fuser of the fixing device, the following ratio 6 may be used. Ratio 6:(R+F) / (R+F+SP) F is the number of times the fuser wakes up from power save mode.

[0176] The processor 20 may calculate the ratio using the number of times a process is executed and the time interval between the executions of the process. Specifically, the processor 20 calculates the ratio 7 shown below using the number of times a process is executed whose time interval is within the transition time (e.g., SP transition time) and the total number of processes. The time interval between the executions of a process is the time interval between the execution of a certain process and the execution of the next process. By using the ratio 7, it is not necessary to count the number of processes for each mode. The total number of processes is the total number of processes executed during the learning period or the automatic control period. Ratio 7: (Number of operations whose time interval is within the transition time) / Total number of operations

[0177] (Variation 2) Modification 2 will be described with reference to Fig. 9. Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing an example of an image forming apparatus according to Modification 2. Image forming apparatus 10A is an example of an image forming apparatus according to Modification 2, and includes the configuration of image forming apparatus 10 and a sensor 52. The configuration other than sensor 52 is the same as the configuration of image forming apparatus 10.

[0178] The sensor 52 is a human presence sensor or a camera, and detects people around the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the sensor 52 detects people in the area in front of the image forming apparatus 10. The human presence sensor may be, but is not limited to, an infrared sensor, an ultrasonic sensor, or a visible light sensor. When a camera is used as the sensor 52, people are detected by analyzing an image generated by the camera. For example, the image analysis is performed by the processor 20.

[0179] In Modification 2, when a function (hereinafter referred to as the "transition function") is operating in image forming apparatus 10A, in which the mode of image forming apparatus 10A transitions from a mode in which the time until processing can be executed is longer than other modes to a mode in which the time is shorter when sensor 52 detects a person within the detection area of ​​sensor 52, processor 20 reduces the target value compared to when the transition function is not operating in image forming apparatus 10A. For example, the long mode is SP mode or LP mode, and the short mode is R mode.

[0180] For example, the transition function is a function that transitions the mode of image forming device 10A from SP mode or LP mode to SP mode when sensor 52 detects a person within the detection area of ​​sensor 52 while image forming device 10A is in SP mode or LP mode.

[0181] The transition function not operating in image forming apparatus 10A means that image forming apparatus 10A does not have the transition function, or that image forming apparatus 10A has the transition function but the transition function is set to not operate. For example, when the transition function is set to ON in image forming apparatus 10A equipped with the transition function, if a person is detected within the detection area of ​​sensor 52, the mode of image forming apparatus 10A transitions from long mode to short mode. When the transition function is set to OFF in image forming apparatus 10A equipped with the transition function, the mode of image forming apparatus 10A does not transition from long mode to short mode even if a person is detected within the detection area of ​​sensor 52.

[0182] The target value (hereinafter referred to as "target value A") when the transition function is not operating in image forming apparatus 10A is, for example, the value defined by the above-mentioned formula (2). Target value A = ratio during the learning period 1 - α (for example, α = 0.1) (2)

[0183] The target value when the transition function is operating in image forming apparatus 10A (hereinafter referred to as "target value B") is, for example, a value defined by the following formula (11). Target value B = ratio during the learning period 1 - α (for example, α = 0.4) (11)

[0184] That is, the target values ​​A and B are values ​​calculated by subtracting a predetermined value α from the ratio. The value α (e.g., the above-mentioned "0.4") when the transition function is operating in the image forming apparatus 10A is greater than the value α (e.g., the above-mentioned "0.1") when the transition function is not operating in the image forming apparatus 10A. The value α given here is merely an example, and values ​​other than these may be used as the value α. Furthermore, a ratio other than ratio 1 (e.g., any of ratios 2 to 6) may be used as the ratio.

[0185] For example, when a user approaches image forming apparatus 10A, sensor 52 detects that the image forming apparatus 10A is approaching, and the transition function transitions the image forming apparatus 10A from SP mode or LP mode to R mode. This allows the transition to R mode to proceed as the user approaches image forming apparatus 10A, shortening the time the user has to wait in front of image forming apparatus 10A (i.e., the time the user has to wait until the transition to R mode is complete) compared to when the transition function is not activated. Therefore, even if the transition time to SP mode is set short, user convenience is not reduced, and it is possible to achieve both convenience and power saving. However, even in image forming apparatus 10A where the transition function is activated, if the transition time to SP mode is set long, such a power saving effect cannot be achieved.

[0186] Therefore, in Modification 2, as the target value when the transition function is operating, a target value B that is smaller than the target value A when the transition function is not operating is used. In this way, it is possible to achieve both convenience and power saving.

[0187] For example, when the transition function is not activated, a job may occur that requires the user to wait in front of the image forming apparatus 10A. Specifically, when the user operates the image forming apparatus 10A in SP mode, the user must wait in front of the image forming apparatus 10A. When the transition function is activated, the transition to R mode progresses as the user approaches the image forming apparatus 10A. Therefore, by the time the user arrives at the image forming apparatus 10A, the transition to R mode is completed, or the user's waiting time in front of the image forming apparatus 10A is shortened. In this case, the job is a job that does not require a waiting time or a job with a short waiting time. Therefore, even if a job is executed by returning from SP mode to R mode, the user may not require a waiting time or the waiting time may be short. From this, it can be said that the convenience when the transition function is activated is higher than the convenience when the transition function is not activated. Therefore, it can be said that the actual convenience for the user does not decrease when the transition function is activated, even if the target value is smaller than when the transition function is not activated. Furthermore, reducing the target value increases the energy-saving effect. Therefore, by using target value B when the transition function is activated, it is possible to achieve both convenience and power saving.

[0188] Note that the larger the value α, the greater the energy-saving effect, but if the value α is set too high, the above-mentioned reset may occur unnecessarily. For example, by setting the value α to a value between 0.1 and 0.4, the possibility of unnecessary reset occurring is reduced. Of course, this value is merely an example and may vary depending on the performance and usage environment of the image forming apparatus 10A.

[0189] For example, if the initial setting for the transition time to SP mode is 50 minutes, the value α is set to 0.4; if the initial setting is 30 minutes, the value α is set to 0.3; and if the initial setting is 10 minutes, the value α is set to 0.1. Such settings can enhance energy-saving effects while avoiding unnecessary resets. These values ​​are merely examples and may vary depending on the performance and operating environment of image forming apparatus 10A.

[0190] Fig. 10 shows changes over time in the SP transition time according to Modification 2. Graph 54 shows changes over time in the SP transition time according to Modification 2. Graph 56 shows changes over time in ratio 1 according to Modification 2. Graph 58 shows changes over time in the amount of power according to Modification 2. Graph 60 shows changes over time in the amount of power when the target value is constant. The horizontal axis of each graph indicates weeks.

[0191] As shown in graph 54, the SP transition time is set shorter as time passes. As shown in graph 56, the change in ratio 1 becomes smaller as time passes. Furthermore, as shown in graphs 58 and 60, according to Modification 2, the amount of power can be reduced. For example, according to Modification 2, the power reduction rate increases by 32% compared to when target value A is continued to be used as the target value.

[0192] In the above-described embodiment and modifications 1 and 2, the number of processes executed in each mode may be the number of times the UI 14 was operated in each mode. Each of the above-described R, LP, and SP is the number of times the UI 14 was operated, and the processor 20 calculates a ratio (e.g., ratios 1 to 7) based on the number of times the UI 14 was operated in each mode. Normally, when a user operates the UI 14, the user moves to the front of the image forming apparatus 10 or the image forming apparatus 10A and operates the UI 14. By calculating the ratio based on the number of times the UI 14 was operated, a ratio is calculated that takes into account the convenience in a situation where the user is actually in front of the image forming apparatus 10 or the image forming apparatus 10A and operates the image forming apparatus 10. As a result, a setting value for the transition time is calculated that takes into account the convenience in such a situation.

[0193] If the number of operations on the UI 14 is equal to or less than a threshold, the processor 20 may calculate a ratio such as ratios 1 to 7 based on the number of times including the number of processes (e.g., jobs) other than the operation of the UI 14. The threshold is a predetermined value. The threshold may be set by the user. For example, if the number of operations on the UI 14 is equal to or less than a threshold, the processor 20 calculates the ratio based on the total number of times all jobs are executed and the number of times the UI 14 is operated. In other words, each of the above-mentioned R, LP, and SP is the total number of times all jobs are executed and the number of times the UI 14 is operated, and the processor 20 calculates the ratio based on the total for each mode.

[0194] Some of the functions of image forming apparatus 10 may be realized by a device other than image forming apparatus 10. When some of the functions of image forming apparatus 10 are realized by a device other than image forming apparatus 10, an information processing system may be configured by image forming apparatus 10 and the other device. In other words, the functions of image forming apparatus 10 may be realized by a single device, or may be realized by an information processing system including multiple devices. Similarly, with regard to image forming apparatus 10A, some of the functions of image forming apparatus 10A may be realized by a device other than image forming apparatus 10A.

[0195] Each function of the image forming apparatus 10, 10A is realized, for example, by cooperation between hardware and software. For example, each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the processor 20 of the image forming apparatus 10, 10A reading and executing a program stored in memory. The program is stored in memory via a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network. Similarly, each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by the processor 20 of the image forming apparatus 10 reading and executing a program stored in memory. The program is stored in memory via a recording medium such as a CD or DVD, or via a communication path such as a network.

[0196] In the above-described embodiment and modified example, the mode control of the image forming apparatus 10, 10A has been described, but the processes according to the embodiment and modified example may be applied to an apparatus other than the image forming apparatus 10, 10A. In other words, the apparatus according to the embodiment or modified example may be an apparatus other than the image forming apparatus 10, 10A, as long as it has a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed.

[0197] In the above embodiments, the term "processor" refers to a processor in a broad sense, and includes general-purpose processors (e.g., CPU: Central Processing Unit, etc.) and dedicated processors (e.g., GPU: Graphics Processing Unit, ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit, FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array, programmable logic device, etc.). Furthermore, the operations of the processor in the above embodiments may not only be performed by a single processor, but may also be performed by multiple processors located in physically separate locations working together. Furthermore, the order of the operations of the processor is not limited to the order described in the above embodiments, and may be changed as appropriate.

[0198] (Addendum) (((1))) a processor; The processor: a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of the transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than the other modes is output; Information processing system. (((2))) The history is a ratio of the number of times the process has been executed in each of the at least two modes. The information processing system according to (((1))). (((3))) the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, the third mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the second mode; The history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode, the number of times the process was executed in the second mode, and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((4))) the at least two modes include a first mode and a second mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, The history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode and the number of times the process was executed in the second mode. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((5))) the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, the third mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the second mode, The history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the second mode and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((6))) The history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed within the transition time and the total number of times the process was executed. The information processing system according to (((2))). (((7))) the number of times the process is executed in each of the at least two modes is the number of times a user interface of the device is operated in each of the at least two modes; The information processing system according to (((1))). (((8))) When the number of times the user interface has been operated is equal to or less than a threshold value, the number of times the processes have been executed in each of the at least two modes includes the number of times of processes other than the operation of the user interface. The information processing system according to (((7))). (((9))) The processor: calculating a set value of the transition time from the history and the target value by using a cumulative exponential distribution function; The information processing system according to (((1))). (((10))) The history is the number of times processing is performed per predetermined unit period, The processor: outputting a set value of the transition time in a second unit period following the first unit period based on the history indicating the number of times of processing during the first unit period and the target value; If the number of processes during the first unit period is less than a threshold, the set value of the transition time during the first unit period is output as the set value of the transition time during the second unit period. The information processing system according to (((1))). (((11))) The processor: estimating a change in the usage environment of the device based on a change in the set value of the transition time; The information processing system according to (((1))). (((12))) When a function is active in the device that causes the mode of the device to transition from a mode among the plurality of modes in which a time until a process can be executed is longer than that of other modes to a mode in which a time until a process can be executed is shorter when a person around the device is detected, the processor reduces the target value compared to when the function is not active in the device. The information processing system according to (((1))). (((13))) the target value is a value calculated by subtracting a predetermined value from the ratio, the predetermined value when the function is operating on the device is greater than the predetermined value when the function is not operating on the device; The information processing system according to (((12))). (((14))) The computer a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of the transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than the other modes is output; A program that works like this. (((15))) The processor: a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of the transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than the other modes is output; Information processing methods.

[0199] According to the information processing system relating to (((1))), (((2))), (((3))), (((4))), the program relating to (((14))), or the information processing method relating to (((15))), it is possible to suppress a decrease in the effectiveness of power saving compared to when the transition time until the device transitions to one of multiple modes that takes longer to be able to execute processing than the other modes is constant. According to the information processing system of (((5))), it is possible to output the set value of the transition time without using the number of times the process has been executed in the first mode. According to the information processing system of (((6))), it is possible to output the set value of the transition time without counting the number of times the process for each mode is executed. According to the information processing system of (((7))), it is possible to output a set value of the transition time based on the operation history of the user interface. According to the information processing system of (((8))), even if the number of operations on the user interface is equal to or less than the threshold value, the set value of the transition time can be output. According to the invention (((9))), the set value of the transition time can be calculated using a cumulative exponential distribution function. According to the information processing system of (((10))), even if data cannot be collected for a number of processing times equal to or greater than the threshold, the same setting value can be used to control mode transitions. According to the invention (((11))), it is possible to estimate a change in the environment in which the device is used using the set value of the transition time. According to the information processing systems (((12))) and (((13))), it is possible to improve the effect of saving power compared to a case where the target value is not changed depending on whether or not a function is operating.

[0200] 10,10A Image forming device, 20 Processor.

Claims

1. a processor; The processor: a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of a transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than other modes is output; Information processing system.

2. The history is a ratio of the number of times the process has been executed in each of the at least two modes. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

3. the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, the third mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the second mode, the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode, the number of times the process was executed in the second mode, and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode; The information processing system according to claim 2 .

4. the at least two modes include a first mode and a second mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the first mode and the number of times the process was executed in the second mode; The information processing system according to claim 2 .

5. the at least two modes include a first mode, a second mode, and a third mode; the first mode is a mode in which the device is waiting to execute a process; the second mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the first mode, the third mode is a mode in which the time until execution of the process becomes possible is longer than that in the second mode, the history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed in the second mode and the number of times the process was executed in the third mode; The information processing system according to claim 2 .

6. The history is a ratio calculated using the number of times the process was executed within the transition time and the total number of times the process was executed. The information processing system according to claim 2 .

7. the number of times the process is executed in each of the at least two modes is the number of times a user interface of the device is operated in each of the at least two modes; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

8. When the number of times the user interface has been operated is equal to or less than a threshold value, the number of times the processes have been executed in each of the at least two modes includes the number of times of processes other than the operation of the user interface. The information processing system according to claim 7 .

9. The processor: calculating a set value of the transition time from the history and the target value by using a cumulative exponential distribution function; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

10. The history is the number of times processing is performed per predetermined unit period, The processor: outputting a set value of the transition time in a second unit period following the first unit period based on the history indicating the number of times of processing during the first unit period and the target value; If the number of processes during the first unit period is less than a threshold, the set value of the transition time during the first unit period is output as the set value of the transition time during the second unit period. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

11. The processor: estimating a change in the usage environment of the device based on a change in the set value of the transition time; The information processing system according to claim 1 .

12. When a function is active in the device that causes the mode of the device to transition from a mode among the plurality of modes in which a time until a process can be executed is longer than that of other modes to a mode in which a time until a process can be executed is shorter when a person around the device is detected, the processor reduces the target value compared to when the function is not active in the device. The information processing system according to claim 1 .

13. the target value is a value calculated by subtracting a predetermined value from the ratio, the predetermined value when the function is operating on the device is greater than the predetermined value when the function is not operating on the device; The information processing system according to claim 12.

14. The computer a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of a transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than other modes is output; A program that works like this.

15. The processor: a history of processes executed in a device having a plurality of modes with different times until the process can be executed, the history indicating the number of times the process has been executed in each of at least two of the plurality of modes, and a target value for the ratio of a specific process executed by the device, and based on this history, a setting value of a transition time until the device transitions to a mode among the plurality of modes that takes longer until the process can be executed than other modes is output; Information processing methods.

Images