Image forming apparatus

Abstract

To reliably control germicidal lamps so as not to impose the operation burden on people.SOLUTION: An image formation device includes: an image formation unit; a communication interface; and a control unit that supplies power to the image formation unit in a normal mode, limits power supply to the image formation unit less in a power saving mode than the normal mode, communicates with a germicidal lamp device via the communication interface so as not to cause a germicidal lamp device to generate germicidal light when in the normal mode, and communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface so as to cause the germicidal lamp device to generate germicidal light when in the power saving mode.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 8

Description

Technical Field

[0001] Embodiments of the present invention relate to an image forming apparatus and a germicidal lamp apparatus.

Background Art

[0002] Patent Document 1 describes a convenient stand-type germicidal lamp that can be easily moved and placed in a cafeteria kitchen, a hotel guest room, etc. When the human body detection sensor detects a person entering the irradiation range of the germicidal light, which may pose a risk to the human body, the germicidal lamp turns off.

Prior Art Document

Patent Document

[0003]

Patent Document 1

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0004] It has been considered to use a germicidal lamp to sterilize equipment that people touch. From the perspective of safety, it is required to control the germicidal lamp so that the germicidal light is irradiated when people are not in the irradiation range of the germicidal light, and the germicidal light is not irradiated when people touch the equipment, ensuring reliability and not imposing an operation burden on people. The problem to be solved by the present invention is to control the germicidal lamp to ensure reliability and not impose an operation burden on people.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0005] An image forming apparatus according to one embodiment includes: an image forming unit; a communication interface; and a control unit that supplies power to the image forming unit in normal mode, limits the power supply to the image forming unit to less than in normal mode in power saving mode, communicates with a germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to prevent the germicidal lamp device from generating germicidal light in normal mode, and communicates with a germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to generate germicidal light in power saving mode. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0006] [Figure 1] A perspective view of the image forming apparatus according to one embodiment, seen from the upper left front. [Figure 2] A configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus according to one embodiment, viewed from the front. [Figure 3] A block diagram of an image forming apparatus according to one embodiment. [Figure 4] A flowchart relating to mode control of power supply for an image forming apparatus according to one embodiment. [Figure 5] A diagram showing a germicidal lamp device according to one embodiment. [Figure 6] A block diagram of a germicidal lamp device according to one embodiment. [Figure 7] A perspective view showing an example of connecting an image forming apparatus and a germicidal lamp device according to one embodiment. [Figure 8] A perspective view showing an example of connecting an image forming apparatus and a germicidal lamp device according to one embodiment. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0007] The following describes one embodiment of controlling the germicidal lamp in a reliable manner that does not burden the operator, with reference to the drawings. Figure 1 is a perspective view of the image forming apparatus 1 according to one embodiment, seen from the front left upper side. In the lower left of Figure 1, arrows x point from the left to the right of the image forming apparatus 1, arrow y pointing upward from the floor side, and arrow z pointing from the front side to the rear side are indicated.

[0008] The image forming apparatus 1 comprises a display 110, a control panel 120, an image forming unit 130, an image reading unit 200, a human presence sensor 150, and a system controller 300.

[0009] The image forming apparatus 1 is fitted with a toner cartridge. The toner cartridge may be filled with decolorizable toner that can be removed later, or with toner that cannot be removed later. The image forming apparatus 1 uses the toner to form an image on a sheet.

[0010] The display 110 is an image display device such as a liquid crystal display or an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display. The display 110 displays various information related to the image forming apparatus 1.

[0011] The control panel 120 has multiple buttons for accepting user input. The display 110 and the control panel 120 may be configured as a single touch panel.

[0012] The image forming unit 130 forms an image on the sheet based on the image information generated by the image reading unit 200 and the image information received via the communication channel.

[0013] The image reading unit 200 reads the image information to be read as brightness and darkness. The image reading unit 200 records the read image information. The recorded image information may be transmitted to other information processing devices via a network. The recorded image information may be used to form an image on a sheet by the image forming unit 130.

[0014] The motion sensor 150 detects a person present near the image forming apparatus 1. The motion sensor 150 outputs a detection signal when a person is within its detection range. The motion sensor 150 may also be a sensor that detects changes in light caused by a person's movement. The motion sensor 150 may also be a pyroelectric sensor that detects changes in infrared radiation caused by a person's movement. The system controller 300 controls each part to realize the functions of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0015] Figure 2 is a diagram of the image forming apparatus 1 as seen from the front. The image forming apparatus 1 includes an image reading unit 200 and an image forming unit 130.

[0016] The image forming unit 130 includes a sheet storage section 140, a transport section 5, an image forming section 25Y, an image forming section 25M, an image forming section 25C, an image forming section 25K, an exposure section 26, a transfer belt 27, a fuser 29, toner cartridges 33Y, 33M, 33C, 33K, and a transfer belt cleaner 35.

[0017] The sheet storage section 140 stores the sheets. The transport section 5 has a register roller 24 and a transfer roller 28. The register roller 24 adjusts the orientation of the leading edge of the sheet taken out of the sheet storage section 140 and transports the sheet in time with the image forming unit 130 transferring the toner image to the sheet. The register roller 24 then transports the sheet to the transfer roller 28.

[0018] The transfer belt 27 has an image forming surface which is the surface facing the image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K. The image forming surface is inclined at an inclination angle D with respect to the floor so as to be lower from the left side to the right side when viewed from the front side in order to ensure sufficient length. The transfer belt 27 has rollers 271L and 271R on the back surface of the image forming surface to define the inclination angle D of the image forming surface. The transfer belt 27 includes transfer rollers 9 for attracting toner images from the image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K respectively on the back surface of the surface facing each of the image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K between the rollers 271L and 271R. The transfer belt 27 conveys the toner images received in order and stacked from the image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K toward the transfer roller 28. The transfer roller 28 transfers the toner image to the sheet. <> <>

[0019] <> The image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K are arranged in order in the traveling direction of the surface of the transfer belt 27 facing them. The image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K are installed close to the floor along the inclination angle D so as to follow the transfer belt 27 which is inclined with respect to the floor from the left side to the right side when viewed from the front side. The image forming unit 25Y forms a yellow toner image. The image forming unit 25M forms a magenta toner image. The image forming unit 25C forms a cyan toner image. The image forming unit 25K forms a black toner image. The image forming units 25Y, 25M, 25C, and 25K each have a photosensitive drum 7, and perform charging, developing, cleaning, discharging, etc. on the photosensitive drum 7.<> <>

[0020] <> The exposure unit 26 performs exposure for forming an electrostatic latent image on the four photosensitive drums 7.<> <>

[0021] <> The fixing unit 29 fixes the toner image on the sheet to which the toner image has been transferred by the transfer roller 28. <> <>

[0022] <> The transfer belt 27 has toner cartridges 33Y, 33M, 33C, and 33K at its top. Toner cartridge 33Y contains yellow toner for supplying to the image forming unit 25Y via a supply tube. Toner cartridge 33M contains magenta toner for supplying to the image forming unit 25M via a supply tube. Toner cartridge 33C contains cyan toner for supplying to the image forming unit 25C via a supply tube. Toner cartridge 33K contains black toner for supplying to the image forming unit 25K via a supply tube.

[0023] The transfer belt cleaner 35 removes any toner remaining on the transfer belt 27 after the toner image has been transferred to the sheet by the transfer roller 28.

[0024] Figure 3 is a block diagram of the image forming apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 1 comprises an image reading unit 200, an image forming unit 130, a display 110, a control panel 120, a human presence sensor 150, and a system controller 300. The system controller 300 comprises an image processing unit 172, a control unit 174, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 175, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 176, a non-volatile memory 177, a communication interface 178, and a page memory 180.

[0025] The image reading unit 200 outputs the optically read image of the original document as image data.

[0026] The image processing unit 172 performs various image processing operations on image data obtained by the image reading unit 200 and image data input via the communication interface 178. The page memory 180 stores the image data output by the image processing unit 172.

[0027] The image forming unit 130 forms an image based on the image data stored in the page memory 180.

[0028] The communication interface 178 is an interface for communicating with other devices. The communication interface 178 is used for communication with external devices. The communication interface 178 is, for example, a wired LAN communication adapter. The communication interface 178 may also function as a PSE (Power sourcing equipment) in so-called PoE (Power over Ethernet) standards such as IEEE 802.3af, IEEE 802.3at, or IEEE 802.3bt. The communication interface 178 is, for example, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) communication adapter. The communication interface 178 may also perform wireless communication with other devices according to a communication standard, such as a wireless LAN communication adapter or a short-range wireless communication adapter.

[0029] The display 110 displays various information related to the image forming apparatus 1. For example, the display 110 displays images for setting various functions of the image forming apparatus 1, images showing the remaining toner level, and so on.

[0030] The control panel 120 accepts user input.

[0031] The control unit 174 controls each part according to various programs in order to realize the functions of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0032] For example, the control unit 174 receives jobs such as scan jobs and copy jobs entered by the user through the control panel 120 and stores them in RAM 176. The control unit 174 also receives print jobs received from external devices through the communication interface 178 and stores them in RAM 176. The control unit 174 organizes the scheduling of jobs stored in RAM 176, such as separating copy jobs into scan jobs and print jobs and organizing their execution order.

[0033] The control unit 174 controls the image reading operation in the image reading unit 200 as specified in the scan job. The control unit 174 controls the image processing operation in the image processing unit 172 as specified in the job. The control unit 174 controls the image forming operation in the image forming unit 130 as specified in the print job.

[0034] The control unit 174 controls the power supply to the image reading unit 200, the image forming unit 130, the display 110, etc., based on the detection signal output by the human presence sensor 150. There are two power supply modes, for example, a normal mode and a power-saving mode. In normal mode, power is supplied to the image reading unit 200, the image forming unit 130, the display 110, etc. In power-saving mode, the power supply to the image reading unit 200, the image forming unit 130, the display 110, etc., is limited to less than in normal mode. Even in power-saving mode, power is supplied to the human presence sensor 150.

[0035] When the control unit 174 receives a detection signal from the motion sensor 150 in power-saving mode, detects operation of the control panel 120, or receives a print job from an external device via the communication interface 178, it switches the power supply mode to normal mode.

[0036] The control unit 174 switches the power supply mode to power saving mode after a certain period of time has elapsed when it has not received a detection signal from the human presence sensor 150 in normal mode, has not detected any operation of the control panel 120, and has not received a print job from an external device via the communication interface 178.

[0037] When the control unit 174 receives a detection signal from the motion sensor 150 in normal mode, detects operation of the control panel 120, or receives a print job from an external device via the communication interface 178, it postpones switching the power supply mode to power saving mode.

[0038] The control unit 174 may be configured to delay switching to power-saving mode when it receives a print job from an external device via the communication interface 178 in normal mode, by making the period longer when the print job contains few pages and shorter when the print job contains many pages.

[0039] The control unit 174 supplies power to external devices through the communication interface 178. In normal mode, the control unit 174 suspends power supply to external devices via the communication interface 178.

[0040] When the control unit 174 receives a detection signal from the motion sensor 150, it may be configured to pause power supply from the communication interface 178 to external devices before starting power supply to the image reading unit 200, image forming unit 130, display 110, etc.

[0041] When the control unit 174 detects an operation on the control panel 120, it may be configured to pause the power supply from the communication interface 178 to external devices before starting to supply power to the image reading unit 200, the image forming unit 130, the display 110, etc.

[0042] In power-saving mode, the control unit 174 supplies power to external devices via the communication interface 178. It is also possible to configure the control unit 174 to supply power to external devices via the communication interface 178 even in normal mode.

[0043] The control unit 174 can control the time from when it enters power-saving mode until it starts supplying power to external devices via the communication interface 178. The user can input the time from when the control unit 174 enters power-saving mode until it starts supplying power to external devices via the communication interface 178 by operating the control panel 120.

[0044] The control unit 174 may be configured to lengthen the time between entering power-saving mode and starting to supply power to the external device via the communication interface 178 when it receives a print job from an external device via the communication interface 178 in normal mode, when the number of pages in the print job is small, and shorten the time when the number of pages in the print job is large.

[0045] The control unit 174 may be configured to transmit signals through the communication interface 178 indicating that it has not received a detection signal from the motion sensor 150, or signals indicating that it has not detected any operation of the control panel 120, and to supply an amount of power to external devices that is less than the amount of power supplied in power-saving mode, which is necessary to process the transmitted signals.

[0046] The control unit 174 may be configured to transmit a signal indicating the power supply mode through the communication interface 178, and to supply an amount of power to external equipment that is less than the amount of power supplied in power-saving mode, which is necessary to process the transmitted signal.

[0047] The control unit 174 may be configured to transmit signals to control the operation of external devices through the communication interface 178, and to supply an amount of power to the external devices that is less than the amount of power supplied in power-saving mode, and is necessary to process the signals that control the operation of the external devices. Since the required amount differs for each external device, the amount of power supplied may differ for each external device identified by a unique identifier.

[0048] If it is difficult to supply power to external devices through the communication interface 178, such as when the power capacity of the image forming apparatus 1 is small, the control unit 174 may be configured to transmit a signal through the communication interface 178 indicating that it has not received a detection signal from the human presence sensor 150 or a signal indicating that it has not detected operation of the control panel 120, thereby preventing power from being supplied to external devices.

[0049] If it is difficult to supply power to external devices through the communication interface 178, such as when the power capacity of the image forming apparatus 1 is small, the control unit 174 may be configured to transmit a signal indicating the power supply mode through the communication interface 178 and not supply power to external devices.

[0050] If it is difficult to supply power to external devices through the communication interface 178, such as when the power capacity of the image forming apparatus 1 is small, the control unit 174 may be configured to transmit signals to control the operation of the external devices through the communication interface 178, and not to supply power to the external devices. If the image forming apparatus 1 is configured not to supply power to external devices, the external devices must be configured to receive power from a source other than the image forming apparatus 1.

[0051] The control unit 174 may be configured to receive a signal from an external device via the communication interface 178 indicating whether or not the motion sensor of the external device has detected a person or the like. The control unit 174 may also use a signal indicating whether or not the motion sensor of the external device has detected a person or the like, similar to the detection signal of the motion sensor 150, as a condition for transitioning between normal mode and power saving mode or continuing in that mode. If the control unit 174 is configured to receive a signal from an external device via the communication interface 178 indicating whether or not the motion sensor of the external device has detected a person or the like, it is preferable to configure it so that power is supplied to the communication interface 178 even in power saving mode.

[0052] The control unit 174 may be configured to receive signals from external devices through the communication interface 178 indicating the operating status of those external devices. The control unit 174 may also be configured to display the operating status of each external device on the control panel 120 based on the signals indicating the operating status of those external devices.

[0053] Such a control unit 174 is composed of one or more processors. The processor is, for example, a CPU (Central Processing Unit). ROM 175 stores various programs and other data necessary for controlling the control unit 174. RAM 176 temporarily stores data necessary for controlling the control unit 174. Non-volatile memory 177 stores updated programs and various parameters. Note that non-volatile memory 177 may store some or all of the various programs.

[0054] Figure 4 is an example of a control flowchart for the control unit 174 related to power supply mode control.

[0055] When power saving mode is activated, the control unit 174 checks whether the communication interface 178 is receiving jobs from an external device (ACT110).

[0056] If a job is received (ACT110: Yes), the power saving mode will end and normal mode will begin.

[0057] If no job has been received (ACT110 No.), the control unit 174 checks whether the motion sensor 150 is outputting a detection signal (ACT120).

[0058] If a detection signal is output (Yes in ACT120), the motion sensor 150 notifies an external device via the communication interface 178 that it is outputting a detection signal (ACT125), then the power saving mode ends and the normal mode begins.

[0059] If no detection signal is output (ACT120 No.), the control unit 174 checks whether the communication interface 178 has received a signal from an external device indicating that the human presence sensor of that external device has detected a person or the like (ACT130).

[0060] If the external motion sensor receives a signal indicating that a person or other object has been detected (ACT130: Yes), the power saving mode will end and normal mode will begin.

[0061] If the external motion sensor has not received a signal indicating that it has detected a person or other object (ACT130 No.), the control unit 174 checks whether the user has made any input from the control panel 120 (S140).

[0062] If user input is received from the control panel 120 (ACT140 Yes), the power saving mode is terminated and normal mode is started. If user input is not received from the control panel 120 (ACT140 No), the control unit 174 performs S110 again.

[0063] When normal mode begins, the control unit 174 resets the timer (ACT200) and checks whether the communication interface 178 is receiving jobs from external devices (ACT210).

[0064] If a job has been received (ACT210 Yes), the control unit 174 performs S200 again. If no job has been received (ACT210 No), the control unit 174 checks whether the motion sensor 150 is outputting a detection signal (ACT220).

[0065] If a detection signal is output (ACT120 Yes), the control unit 174 notifies the external device via the communication interface 178 that the human presence sensor 150 is outputting a detection signal (ACT225), and then performs S200 again. If no detection signal is output (ACT220 No), the control unit 174 checks whether the communication interface 178 has received a signal from the external device indicating that the human presence sensor of the external device has detected a person or the like (ACT230).

[0066] If the external motion sensor has received a signal indicating that it has detected a person or other object (ACT230 Yes), the control unit 174 performs S200 again. If the external motion sensor has not received a signal indicating that it has detected a person or other object (ACT230 No), the control unit 174 checks whether the user has made any input from the control panel 120 (ACT240).

[0067] If user input is received from the control panel 120 (ACT240 Yes), the control unit 174 performs S200 again. If user input is not received from the control panel 120 (ACT240 No), the control unit 174 checks whether the time measured by the timer has exceeded a certain limit (ACT250).

[0068] If the time measured by the timer has not exceeded a certain limit (ACT250 No), the control unit 174 performs S210 again. If the time measured by the timer has exceeded a certain limit (ACT250 Yes), the normal mode is terminated and the power saving mode is started.

[0069] Figure 5 shows a germicidal lamp device 1000 according to one embodiment. The germicidal lamp device 1000 comprises a housing 1001, a germicidal lamp 1002, a range indicator light 1013 support column 1003, a human motion sensor 1004, an operating indicator lamp 1006, a standby indicator lamp 1007, a base plate 1008, and a connection terminal 1010.

[0070] The housing 1001 supports a germicidal lamp 1002, a range indicator light 1013, a human motion sensor 1004, and the like.

[0071] The germicidal lamp 1002 generates germicidal light. The germicidal light is, for example, ultraviolet light. The germicidal light is reflected by the housing 1001 and irradiated downwards. The direction of irradiation of the germicidal light can be changed by rotating the housing 1001.

[0072] The range indicator light 1013 emits visible light when the germicidal lamp 1002 is emitting germicidal light. The range indicator light 1013 may be a fluorescent lamp or an LED (Light Emitting Diode).

[0073] The visible light emitted by the range indicator light 1013 should ideally include the irradiation range of the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002. If the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002 is invisible or difficult to see, it is safer for people if the visible light emitted by the range indicator light 1013 makes the irradiation range of the germicidal light visible.

[0074] The motion sensor 1004 detects a person who is near the germicidal lamp device 1000. The motion sensor 1004 outputs a detection signal when a person is within its detection range.

[0075] The motion sensor 1004 may also be a sensor that detects changes in light caused by human movement. The motion sensor 1004 may also be a pyroelectric sensor that detects changes in infrared radiation caused by human movement. The motion sensor 1004 may also be capable of measuring ambient illuminance, or it may output a high illuminance detection signal when it detects that the illuminance is above a certain level.

[0076] The support column 1003 rotatably supports the housing 1001 from above. The support column 1003 is equipped with an operating indicator lamp 1006 and a standby indicator lamp 1007.

[0077] The operation indicator lamp 1006 lights up when the germicidal lamp 1002 is emitting germicidal light. The operation indicator lamp 1006 may be a fluorescent lamp or an LED. If the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002 is invisible or difficult to see, it is safer for people to be able to see that the germicidal lamp 1002 is emitting germicidal light by using the operation indicator lamp 1006 to emit visible light.

[0078] The idle indicator lamp 1007 lights up when the germicidal lamp 1002 is not emitting germicidal light. The idle indicator lamp 1007 may be a fluorescent lamp or an LED. If the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002 is invisible or difficult to see, it is reassuring for people to be able to see that the germicidal lamp 1002 is not emitting germicidal light by using the idle indicator lamp 1007 to emit visible light.

[0079] A range indicator light 1013 may be provided on the support pole 1003. A motion sensor 1004 may also be provided on the support pole 1003.

[0080] The base plate 1008 vertically supports the lower part of the support column 1003.

[0081] The connection terminal 1010 is a terminal for communicating with the communication interface 178 of the image forming apparatus 1. The connection terminal 1010 may also serve as a terminal for inputting power used by the entire germicidal lamp device 1000. If the germicidal lamp device 1000 is configured to communicate wirelessly with the image forming apparatus 1, it may function only as a terminal for inputting power used by the entire germicidal lamp device 1000. Furthermore, if the germicidal lamp device 1000 is equipped with a battery to supply the power used by the entire device, the connection terminal 1010 may not be necessary.

[0082] Figure 6 is a block diagram of the germicidal lamp device 1000. The system controller 1300 and communication interface 1178 are located inside the housing 1001. The system controller 1300 includes a control unit 1174, ROM 1175, RAM 1176, and non-volatile memory 1177.

[0083] The communication interface 1178 is an interface for communicating with other devices. The communication interface 1178 is used for communication with external devices. The communication interface 178 is, for example, a wired LAN communication adapter. The communication interface 178 may also function as a PD (Powered Device) in so-called PoE standards such as IEEE802.3af, IEEE802.3at, or IEEE 802.3bt. The communication interface 178 is, for example, a USB communication adapter. The communication interface 1178 may input and output signals via the connection terminal 1010. If the connection terminal 1010 functions as a terminal for inputting power used by the entire germicidal lamp device 1000, then the communication interface 1178 will function as a power input circuit. The communication interface 1178 may also perform wireless communication with other devices according to communication standards, such as a wireless LAN communication adapter or a short-range wireless communication adapter.

[0084] The control unit 1174 controls each part to realize the function of the germicidal lamp device 1000 according to various programs. For example, the control unit 1174 generates visible light from the range indicator lamp 1013 when the germicidal lamp 1002 is generating germicidal light. The control unit 1174 controls the amount of light emitted by the range indicator lamp 1013 so that the irradiation range of the visible light emitted by the range indicator lamp 1013 includes the irradiation range of the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002. When the control unit 1174 detects that the motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal, it stops the germicidal lamp 1002 from generating germicidal light. The control unit 1174 lights up the operation indicator lamp 1006 when the germicidal lamp 1002 is irradiating germicidal light. The control unit 1174 lights up the pause indicator lamp 1007 when the germicidal lamp 1002 is not irradiating germicidal light.

[0085] The control unit 1174 may be configured to stop generating germicidal light from the germicidal lamp 1002 when it detects that the ambient illuminance obtained by the motion sensor 1004 is above a certain level.

[0086] The control unit 1174 can take on two lighting modes: a germicidal lighting mode and a non-germicidal lighting mode. In germicidal lighting mode, the control unit 1174 generates visible light in the range indicator light 1013 when germicidal light is being generated in the germicidal lamp 1002. In non-germicidal lighting mode, the control unit 1174 generates visible light in the range indicator light 1013 without generating germicidal light in the germicidal lamp 1002 as in germicidal lighting mode. In non-germicidal lighting mode, the control unit 1174 may also illuminate the idle indicator lamp 1007 instead of the operating indicator lamp 1006 when visible light is being generated in the range indicator lamp 1013.

[0087] The control unit 1174 receives power from an external device through the communication interface 1178. The control unit 1174 generates germicidal light in the germicidal lamp 1002 when it has not detected that the motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal and is receiving power from an external device through the communication interface 1178. The control unit 1174 stops generating germicidal light in the germicidal lamp 1002 when it can no longer receive power from an external device through the communication interface 1178.

[0088] The control unit 1174 receives a signal from an external device via the communication interface 1178 indicating whether or not the motion sensor of the external device has detected a person or the like. If the control unit 1174 does not detect that the motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal and receives a signal via the communication interface 1178 indicating that the motion sensor of the external device has not detected a person or the like, it generates germicidal light in the germicidal lamp 1002.

[0089] The control unit 1174 may be configured to, if a certain period of time has elapsed without detecting that the motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal, query an external device via the communication interface 1178 to inquire whether the motion sensor of that external device has detected a person or other object. If it receives a signal indicating that the motion sensor of the external device has not detected a person or other object, it may be configured to generate germicidal light from the germicidal lamp 1002. The reason for confirming with the external device that it has not detected a person or other object is to better avoid a dangerous situation where, even if the motion sensor 1004 stops detecting a person or other object, a person is still within the irradiation range of the germicidal light emitted by the germicidal lamp 1002.

[0090] The control unit 1174 receives a signal from the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication interface 1178 indicating the power supply mode of the image forming apparatus 1. The control unit 1174 generates germicidal light from the germicidal lamp 1002 if it does not detect that the human presence sensor 1004 has output a detection signal and receives a signal from the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication interface 1178 indicating that the image forming apparatus 1 is in power-saving mode. The control unit 1174 stops generating germicidal light from the germicidal lamp 1002 when it receives a signal from the image forming apparatus 1 via the communication interface 1178 indicating that the image forming apparatus 1 is in normal mode.

[0091] Such a control unit 1174 is composed of one or more processors. The processor is, for example, a CPU. ROM 1175 stores various programs and other data necessary for controlling the control unit 1174. RAM 1176 temporarily stores data necessary for controlling the control unit 1174. Non-volatile memory 1177 stores updated programs and various parameters. Note that non-volatile memory 1177 may store some or all of the various programs.

[0092] Figure 7 is a perspective view showing an example of connecting the image forming apparatus 1 and the germicidal lamp device 1000. A connector 160 is provided on the image forming apparatus 1. The germicidal lamp device 1000 is attached to the connector 160 of the image forming apparatus 1 without attaching the base plate 1008 to it. The connector 160 has sufficient rigidity to support the germicidal lamp device 1000. The connector 160 is connected to the connection terminal 1010 and mediates communication and power supply between the system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 and the system controller 1300 of the germicidal lamp device 1000. The germicidal lamp device 1000 connected to the image forming apparatus 1 via the connector 160 is suitable for irradiating germicidal light onto areas of the image forming apparatus 1 that are easily touched by people, such as the display 110, control panel 120, and image reading unit 200.

[0093] The structure, which connects the germicidal lamp device 1000 to the image forming apparatus 1 with a connector 160 or allows it to stand on its own with a base plate 1008, eliminates the need for construction work such as installation on the ceiling, walls, or floor of a building, making installation easy. If the operating indicator lamp 1006 and the idle indicator lamp 1007 of the germicidal lamp device 1000 are placed higher than the image forming apparatus 1, it is possible to see from a distance whether the germicidal lamp 1002 is emitting germicidal light, which provides peace of mind to people.

[0094] Figure 8 is a perspective view showing an example of the connection between the image forming apparatus 1 and the germicidal lamp device 1000. The germicidal lamp device 1000, which is connected to the image forming apparatus 1 via a connector 160, communicates with two germicidal lamp devices 2000 and 3000, which are fitted with a base plate 1008. The germicidal lamp device 2000 is positioned so that the irradiation range of the germicidal light it generates does not affect the image forming apparatus 1. The germicidal lamp device 3000 is positioned and oriented so that the irradiation range of the germicidal light it generates affects the desk 4000.

[0095] When the image forming apparatus 1 is in normal mode, each germicidal lamp unit 1000, 2000, and 3000 does not generate germicidal light. When the image forming apparatus 1 is in power-saving mode, each germicidal lamp unit 1000 generates germicidal light.

[0096] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to promptly stop the generation of germicidal light in each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, and 3000 before the image forming apparatus 1 switches from power-saving mode to normal mode when the human presence sensor 150 of the image forming apparatus 1 detects the presence of a person within its detection range.

[0097] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to quickly stop the generation of germicidal light in each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, and 3000 before the image forming apparatus 1 switches from power-saving mode to normal mode when it detects an operation of the control panel 120.

[0098] Even when the image forming apparatus 1 is in normal mode, for example, a germicidal lamp device 3000 that is far from the image forming apparatus 1 and is not expected to affect the person operating the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to continue generating germicidal light.

[0099] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to allow setting whether or not to generate germicidal light for each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, and 3000, which are external devices from the image forming apparatus 1.

[0100] Even when the image forming apparatus 1 is in power-saving mode, a germicidal lamp device 3000, for example, which is far from the image forming apparatus 1 and is expected to pass by when a person who has finished using the image forming apparatus 1 leaves, and which is desired to emit germicidal light later than when the image forming apparatus 1 enters power-saving mode, may be configured to emit germicidal light later than when the image forming apparatus 1 enters power-saving mode. The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to allow setting how much of a delay there should be in emitting germicidal light from when the image forming apparatus 1 enters power-saving mode for each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, 3000, which are external devices from the perspective of the image forming apparatus 1, for each unique identifier of the external device.

[0101] Even when the image forming apparatus 1 is in power-saving mode, for example, a germicidal lamp device 3000, which is far from the image forming apparatus 1 and is expected to pass nearby when a person who has finished using the image forming apparatus 1 leaves, may be configured to emit visible light from the range indicator lamp 1013.

[0102] The image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to delay switching to power-saving mode when it receives a print job in normal mode, to extend the time until it starts supplying power to the germicidal lamps 1000, 2000, and 3000, and to shorten the time until the germicidal lamps 1000, 2000, and 3000 generate germicidal light, when the print job contains few pages, and when the print job contains many pages. When the print job contains few pages, people are more likely to come and pick up the printed materials immediately, so for safety reasons, the germicidal lamps 1000, 2000, and 3000 do not hastily generate germicidal light.

[0103] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to allow setting whether or not to generate visible light from the range indicator light 1013 when the image forming apparatus 1 enters power-saving mode, for each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, 3000 which is an external device from the image forming apparatus 1, for each unique identifier of the external device.

[0104] The image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to display the operating status of each germicidal lamp device 1000, 2000, and 3000, which are external devices from the image forming apparatus 1, on the display 110 of the image forming apparatus 1, such as whether germicidal light is being generated or whether visible light is being generated from the range indicator lamp 1013.

[0105] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to allow setting whether or not to generate visible light from the range indicator light when the image forming apparatus 1 is in power-saving mode, for each unique identifier of an external device.

[0106] The conditions for transitioning between the normal mode and power-saving mode of the image forming apparatus 1 may include signals indicating whether or not the human motion sensors 1004 of the germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000 have detected a person, similar to the detection signals from the human motion sensor 150 or the operation of the control panel 120.

[0107] The conditions for transitioning between the normal mode and power-saving mode of the image forming apparatus 1 may include signals indicating the operating status of the germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000, particularly whether or not germicidal light is being generated.

[0108] The system controller 300 of the image forming apparatus 1 may be configured to allow setting which signal from the germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000 to use for each unique identifier of an external device.

[0109] In a configuration in which the operating state of germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000, particularly whether or not they generate germicidal light, is controlled in conjunction with the transition and continuation of the normal mode and power-saving mode of the image forming apparatus 1, the germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000 can be controlled reliably and without burdening the operator by taking into account the operating state of the germicidal lamp devices 1000, 2000, and 3000 and whether or not the human presence sensor 1004 has detected a person or the like, as conditions for the transition and continuation of the power supply mode of each part of the image forming apparatus 1.

[0110] Each germicidal lamp device 2000, 3000 generates germicidal light when it does not detect that the human motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal, if it is not connected to the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device. Each germicidal lamp device 2000, 3000 generates germicidal light when it does not detect that the human motion sensor 1004 has output a detection signal, it can be confirmed that the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device has not detected a person or the like, and it can be confirmed that the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device is in power-saving mode.

[0111] When each germicidal lamp device 2000, 3000 is connected to the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device, if the distance from the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device is large, the control unit 1174 may be configured not to take into account whether the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device is not detecting a person or is in power-saving mode when deciding whether to generate germicidal light.

[0112] Whether the distance to the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device is far can be determined, for example, by whether it is farther away than the irradiation range of the germicidal light from each germicidal lamp device 2000, 3000. The distance to the image forming apparatus 1 as an external device can also be determined according to a communication standard, such as a wireless LAN communication adapter or a short-range wireless communication adapter.

[0113] Furthermore, the germicidal lamp device may be configured to include a germicidal lamp that generates germicidal light, and a range indicator light that emits visible light to an irradiation range that includes the irradiation range of the germicidal light generated by the germicidal lamp. In the germicidal lamp device, the range indicator light may be configured to emit visible light when the germicidal lamp is generating germicidal light. In the germicidal lamp device, the device may be configured to include a human presence sensor and a control unit that stops the germicidal lamp from generating germicidal light when the human presence sensor detects a person. In the germicidal lamp device, the device may be configured to include an illuminance sensor and a control unit that stops the germicidal lamp from generating germicidal light when the illuminance sensor detects that the ambient illuminance is above a certain level. In the germicidal lamp device, the device may be configured to include an operating indicator lamp that emits visible light when the germicidal lamp is generating germicidal light. In the germicidal lamp device, the device may be configured to include a dormant indicator lamp that emits visible light when the germicidal lamp is not generating germicidal light. In a germicidal lamp device, the control unit may be configured to have a germicidal lighting mode in which germicidal light is generated in the germicidal lamp while visible light is generated in the range indicator lamp, and a non-germicidal lighting mode in which visible light is generated in the range indicator lamp without generating germicidal light in the germicidal lamp. In a germicidal lamp device, the control unit may be configured to have a non-germicidal lighting mode in which, when visible light is generated in the range indicator lamp, the operating indicator lamp is not lit while the idle indicator lamp is lit. In a germicidal lamp device, the control unit may be provided with a communication interface for communicating with an image forming apparatus that supplies power to the image forming unit in normal mode and limits the power supply to the image forming unit to less than in normal mode in power-saving mode, and the control unit may be configured to not generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when the image forming apparatus is in normal mode, and to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when the image forming apparatus is in power-saving mode.In a germicidal lamp device, a communication interface for communicating with an image forming apparatus equipped with a human presence sensor may be provided, and the control unit may be configured to not generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when it receives a signal via the communication interface indicating that the human presence sensor of the image forming apparatus has detected a person, and to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when it receives a signal via the communication interface indicating that the human presence sensor of the image forming apparatus has not detected a person. In a germicidal lamp device, a communication interface for communicating with an image forming apparatus equipped with a first human presence sensor and a second human presence sensor may be provided, and the control unit may be configured to not generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when it receives a signal via the communication interface indicating that the first human presence sensor of the image forming apparatus has detected a person or when the second human presence sensor has detected a person, and to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp when it receives a signal via the communication interface indicating that the first human presence sensor of the image forming apparatus has not detected a person and the second human presence sensor has not detected a person. In a germicidal lamp device, the device may include a communication interface that communicates with an image forming apparatus equipped with a first human presence sensor, and a second human presence sensor. The control unit may, via the communication interface, query the image forming apparatus if a certain period of time has elapsed without the second human presence sensor detecting a person, and when it receives a signal transmitted by the image forming apparatus in response to the query, indicating that the first human presence sensor has not detected a person, via the communication interface, it may generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp.

[0114] While several embodiments of the present invention have been described, these embodiments are presented as examples only and are not intended to limit the scope of the invention. These novel embodiments can be carried out in a variety of other forms, and various omissions, substitutions, and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention. These embodiments and their variations are included in the scope and spirit of the invention, as well as in the claims of the invention and its equivalents. The invention described in the original application (Japanese Patent Application No. 2021-042971) immediately preceding the division of this application is noted below. [Note 1] Image forming unit and; Communication interface and; In normal mode, power is supplied to the image forming unit. In power-saving mode, the power supply to the image forming unit is limited to less than in normal mode. In the normal mode described above, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface so as not to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp device. When in the aforementioned power-saving mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp device. Control unit and; It has a first motion sensor that detects the presence of a person; The control unit, The germicidal lamp device receives a signal from the germicidal lamp device via the aforementioned communication interface indicating whether or not the second human presence sensor of the germicidal lamp device has detected a person. At a minimum, the system will switch from the power-saving mode to the normal mode when the signal indicates that the first motion sensor has detected a person, or that the second motion sensor of the germicidal lamp device has detected a person. Image forming apparatus. [Note 2] The control unit, When the first motion sensor detects the presence of a person, before switching from the power-saving mode to the normal mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to prevent the germicidal lamp device from generating germicidal light. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 3] It further includes a control panel that accepts user input; The control unit, When the control panel receives user input, before transitioning from the power-saving mode to the normal mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to prevent the germicidal lamp device from generating germicidal light. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 4] The control unit, The control panel accepts input of the time from the time the power saving mode is activated until the germicidal lamp device generates germicidal light. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 3. [Note 5] The control unit, The germicidal lamp device receives a signal from the germicidal lamp device via the aforementioned communication interface indicating whether or not the second human presence sensor of the germicidal lamp device has detected a person. When the second motion sensor of the germicidal lamp device detects a person from the signal, it switches from the power-saving mode to the normal mode. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 6] Equipped with an additional display; The control unit, The communication interface receives a signal from the germicidal lamp device indicating whether or not the germicidal lamp device is generating germicidal light. The display shows whether or not the germicidal lamp device is generating germicidal light. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Note 7] The control unit, When a print job is received via the communication interface in normal mode, The time until germicidal light is generated in the aforementioned germicidal lamp device is, When the number of pages included in the aforementioned print job is small, the process is long. When the number of pages included in the aforementioned print job is large, shorten the length. The image forming apparatus described in Appendix 1. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0115] 1...Image forming apparatus, 1000, 2000, 3000...Germicidal lamp apparatus, 1001...Housing, 1002...Germicidal lamp, 1003...Support column, 1006...Operating indicator lamp, 1007...Stopped indicator lamp, 1008...Bottom plate, 1010...Connection terminal, 1013...Range notification lamp, 110...Display, 120...Control panel, 130...Image forming unit, 140...Sheet housing, 150, 1004...Human presence sensor, 160...Connector, 172...Image processing unit, 174, 1174...Control unit, 175, 11 75··ROM, 176,1176··RAM, 177,1177··Non-volatile memory, 178,1178··Communication interface, 180··Page memory, 200··Image reading unit, 25C,25K,25M,25Y··Image forming unit, 26··Exposure unit, 27··Transfer belt, 271L,271R··Roller, 29··Fuser, 300,1300··System controller, 33C,33K,33M,33Y··Toner cartridge, 35··Transfer belt cleaner, 4000··Desk, 5···Conveyor unit, 9··Transfer roller.

Claims

1. Image forming unit and; Communication interface and; In normal mode, power is supplied to the image forming unit. In power-saving mode, the power supply to the image forming unit is limited to less than in normal mode. In the normal mode described above, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface so as not to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp device. When in the aforementioned power-saving mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to generate germicidal light in the germicidal lamp device. Control unit and; It includes a control panel that accepts user input; The control unit, When the control panel receives user input, before transitioning from the power-saving mode to the normal mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to prevent the germicidal lamp device from generating germicidal light. Image forming apparatus.

2. It further comprises a first human presence sensor that detects the presence of a person; The control unit, When the first motion sensor detects the presence of a person, before switching from the power-saving mode to the normal mode, the system communicates with the germicidal lamp device via the communication interface to prevent the germicidal lamp device from generating germicidal light. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

3. The control unit, The control panel accepts input of the time from the time the power saving mode is activated until the germicidal lamp device generates germicidal light. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

4. The control unit, The germicidal lamp device receives a signal from the germicidal lamp device via the aforementioned communication interface indicating whether or not the second human presence sensor of the germicidal lamp device has detected a person. When the second motion sensor of the germicidal lamp device detects from the signal that it has detected a person, it switches from the power-saving mode to the normal mode. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

5. Equipped with an additional display; The control unit, The communication interface receives a signal from the germicidal lamp device indicating whether or not the germicidal lamp device is generating germicidal light. The display shows whether or not the germicidal lamp device is generating germicidal light. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

6. The control unit, When a print job is received via the communication interface in normal mode, The time until germicidal light is generated in the aforementioned germicidal lamp device is, When the number of pages included in the aforementioned print job is small, the process is long. When the number of pages included in the aforementioned print job is large, shorten the length. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.

Images