Patent Description:
Improvements to the power saving function allow an image forming apparatus to have, for example, a plurality of power saving functions as follows. An automatic sleep timer is a function of putting an image forming apparatus into a sleep state when the user has not used the image forming apparatus for a predetermined continuous period of time. An automatic sleep time is a function of automatically putting an image forming apparatus into a sleep state at a time designated by the user. An automatic shut-down timer is a function of performing a process of shutting down an image forming apparatus and thereby turning the image forming apparatus off when the user has not used the image forming apparatus for a predetermined continuous period of time. An automatic shut-down time is a function of performing a process of shutting down an image forming apparatus and thereby turning the image forming apparatus off at a time designated by the user.

An image forming apparatus having a finisher with a stapler can staple printed sheets. The finisher with a stapler provides a function of stapling printed sheets, a manual stapling function of stapling a bundle of sheets which is put by the user into a sheet insertion slot, separately from the printing operation of the image forming apparatus, and the like.

<CIT> describes a finisher apparatus having a stapling function which is switched between automatic stapling and manual stapling, using a mode switch.

In the above image forming apparatus having a manual stapling function, when the manual stapling function and the power saving function are simultaneously enabled, the image forming apparatus is likely to shift to a power saving state during manual stapling. For example, if the automatic sleep timer expires or the automatic sleep time comes while the user is manually stapling, the image forming apparatus goes to the power saving state, so that the manual stapling function is interrupted. Also, if the automatic shut-down timer expires or the automatic shut-down time comes while the user is manually stapling, the image forming apparatus performs a shut-down process to turn itself off. Also, in this case, the manual stapling function is interrupted.

In addition, in the case of an image forming apparatus connected to a finisher, if the image forming apparatus shifts to a sleep state or a shut-down state, the execution of a function performed by the finisher is interrupted. Also, in an image forming apparatus having such a configuration, even when the user desires to use the finisher alone, it is necessary to cause the image forming apparatus to return from the sleep mode, which is not convenient for the user. <CIT> discloses a sheet processing apparatus, which is connected to an image forming apparatus, and applies a predetermined process to a plurality of sheets that have undergone image formation, so that consumption power can be prevented from temporarily increasing. <CIT> discloses an image forming apparatus capable of communicating with a post-processing apparatus. <CIT> discloses an image forming system including an image forming device and a finisher, wherein after transferring to a low electric power mode, when a paper is set to an inserter, power supply to a finisher is restarted.

In order to solve the above related-art problems, the present invention provides a technique of preventing the finisher from being interrupted by an image forming apparatus entering a power saving state.

According to one aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus according to claims <NUM> to <NUM>.

According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a method for controlling an image forming apparatus according to claims <NUM> to <NUM>.

According to the present invention, when the finisher is being operated, the image forming apparatus is caused not to enter the power saving state, such as a sleep state, shut-down state, or the like, whereby a function of the finisher can be prevented from being interrupted by the image forming apparatus entering the power saving state.

Among these, the first to third and fifth to seventh embodiments are reference examples outside the scope of the invention as claimed.

<FIG> is a block diagram for describing a configuration of an image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral) <NUM> according to a first embodiment.

The image forming apparatus <NUM> includes a scanner unit <NUM>, a control unit <NUM>, a printer unit <NUM>, a console unit <NUM>, a fax unit <NUM>, and the like. The scanner unit <NUM> reads an original to generate image data corresponding to an image of the original. The printer unit <NUM> prints an image on paper (sheet) based on image data. The hard disk <NUM> stores image data, a control program, and the like. The fax unit <NUM> is connected to a telephone line or the like to transmit and receive image data (facsimile data). The control unit <NUM> outputs an instruction to each of these units to control an operation of the image forming apparatus <NUM>. The image forming apparatus <NUM> can also receive and output image data from and to a computer (PC) <NUM> through a LAN <NUM>, issue a job, instruct other apparatuses, and the like.

The scanner unit <NUM> includes an original feeder unit <NUM> on which a bundle of originals is placed and which conveys originals to a scanning unit <NUM> one at a time, and the scanning unit <NUM> which optically scans an original to obtain digital image data. The image data thus obtained is transmitted to the control unit <NUM>. The printer unit <NUM> includes a sheet feeder unit <NUM> which successively feeds sheets one at a time, a marking unit <NUM> which prints an image on a fed sheet, and a discharge unit <NUM> which discharges a printed sheet.

A finisher <NUM> performs post-processes, such as discharging, sorting, stapling, punching, cutting, and the like, on a sheet(s) discharged from the discharge unit <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM> of the image forming apparatus <NUM>. A power source switch <NUM> is a switch which turns on and off the power source of the image forming apparatus <NUM>.

Functions possessed by the image forming apparatus <NUM> will now be described.

Image data obtained by the scanner unit <NUM> is stored to the hard disk <NUM>, or printed by the printer unit <NUM>.

Image data obtained by the scanner unit <NUM> is transmitted to the computer <NUM> or the like through the LAN <NUM>.

Image data obtained by the scanner unit <NUM> is stored to the hard disk <NUM>, and transmitted or printed as required.

A print job described in, for example, a page description language, which is received from the computer <NUM>, is analyzed, and printed using the printer unit <NUM>.

<FIG> is a diagram for describing a structure of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment.

In the scanner unit <NUM>, an original feeder unit <NUM> feeds originals to a glass platen <NUM> one at a time, and after the end of an operation of reading each original, the original on the glass platen <NUM> is discharged onto a discharge tray <NUM>. When an original is conveyed to the glass platen <NUM>, a lamp <NUM> is turned on, and an optical unit <NUM> starts to be moved to scan the original using light. Light reflected from the original at this time is guided by mirrors <NUM>-<NUM> and a lens <NUM> to a CCD image sensor (hereinafter referred to as a CCD) <NUM>. Thus, an image of a scanned original is converted into image data by the CCD <NUM>, and after a predetermined process is performed on the image data, the resultant image data is transferred to the control unit <NUM>.

A laser driver <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM> drives a laser emission unit <NUM> to emit laser light corresponding to image data output from the control unit <NUM>. A photosensitive drum <NUM> is irradiated with the laser light, so that a latent image corresponding to the laser light is formed on a surface of the photosensitive drum <NUM>. A developing material is attached by a developer <NUM> to a portion of the photosensitive drum <NUM> on which the latent image has been formed. Thereafter, a sheet is fed from one of cassettes <NUM>-<NUM> and a manual feed tray <NUM> at a timing which is synchronous with the start of irradiation of laser light. Thereafter, the sheet is conveyed through a conveyance path <NUM> to a transfer unit <NUM>, in which the developing material attached to the photosensitive drum <NUM> is transferred to the sheet. The sheet on which the developing material has been transferred is conveyed by a conveyance belt <NUM> to a fixer unit <NUM>, in which the developing material is fixed to the sheet by heat and pressure of the fixer unit <NUM>. Thereafter, the sheet which has been passed through the fixer unit <NUM> is passed through conveyance paths <NUM> and <NUM> and then discharged to a discharge bin <NUM>. When the sheet is discharged to the discharge bin <NUM> with the printed side being reversed, the sheet after fixing is conveyed to conveyance paths <NUM> and <NUM>, from which the sheet is then conveyed in the opposite direction, and passed through a conveyance path <NUM> and the conveyance path <NUM> to be discharged. The discharge bin <NUM> is removable. The sheet may be discharged to the finisher <NUM> through a folding apparatus (not shown).

Also, when double-sided printing is performed, the sheet which has been passed through the fixer unit <NUM> is guided from the conveyance path <NUM> to a conveyance path <NUM> by a flapper <NUM>. Thereafter, the sheet is conveyed in the opposite direction, and then guided by the flapper <NUM> to the conveyance path <NUM> and a refeed conveyance path <NUM>. The sheet thus guided to the refeed conveyance path <NUM> is fed to the transfer unit <NUM> through the conveyance path <NUM> at the above timing.

Next, the finisher <NUM> will be described with reference to <FIG> and <FIG>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of the finisher <NUM>. <FIG> is a cross-sectional view of a stapler <NUM>.

Firstly, a finisher unit of the finisher <NUM> will be described. The finisher <NUM> successively receives discharged sheets through a folding apparatus <NUM>. The finisher <NUM> performs a process of bundling a plurality of received sheets into an aligned bundle, a process of binding the bundle of sheets at the trailing edge using a staple, and a process of punching a hole the received sheets near the trailing edge. The finisher <NUM> also performs post-processes, such as sorting, non-sorting, bookbinding, and the like, on the sheets.

As shown in <FIG>, the finisher <NUM> includes an inlet roller pair <NUM> for guiding a sheet discharged from the printer unit <NUM> through the folding apparatus <NUM> into the finisher <NUM>, and a sheet thickness detection sensor <NUM>. A switching flapper <NUM> for guiding a sheet to a finisher path <NUM> or a first bookbinding path <NUM> is provided downstream from the inlet roller pair <NUM>. The sheet guided to the finisher path <NUM> is conveyed toward a buffer roller <NUM> through a transfer roller pair <NUM>. The transfer roller pair <NUM> and the buffer roller <NUM> are allowed to rotate in opposite directions. An inlet sensor <NUM> is provided between the inlet roller pair <NUM> and the transfer roller pair <NUM>. Also, a second bookbinding path <NUM> branches off from the finisher path <NUM> at a point upstream from and near the inlet sensor <NUM> in the sheet conveyance direction. The branch point forms a branch to a conveyance path for conveying a sheet from the inlet roller pair <NUM> to the transfer roller pair <NUM>. The branch point also forms a branch having a one-way structure in which when the transfer roller pair <NUM> is rotated in an opposite direction to convey a sheet from the transfer roller pair <NUM> toward the inlet sensor <NUM>, the sheet is conveyed only toward the second bookbinding path <NUM>. A punch unit <NUM> is provided between the transfer roller pair <NUM> and the buffer roller <NUM>. The punch unit <NUM> is operated as required to punch a hole at a portion near the trailing edge of a conveyed sheet.

The buffer roller <NUM> is a roller around which a stack of a predetermined number of conveyed sheets can be wrapped. The sheets are wrapped around the roller <NUM> by pressure rollers <NUM>, <NUM>, and <NUM> as required. The sheets wrapped around the buffer roller <NUM> are conveyed in a direction in which the buffer roller <NUM> is rotated. The wrapping of the sheets around the buffer roller <NUM> is performed to temporarily buffer or hold succeeding sheets while the stapling process is being performed at a process tray <NUM>. The predetermined number of sheets wrapped are conveyed to the process tray <NUM> while they are stacked together at an appropriate time when these sheets do not collide with the previous sheet bundle.

A switching flapper <NUM> is provided between the pressure rollers <NUM> and <NUM>. A switching flapper <NUM> is provided downstream from the pressure roller <NUM>. The switching flapper <NUM> is a flapper for causing the sheets wrapped around the buffer roller <NUM> to come off the buffer roller <NUM> and guiding the sheets to a non-sort path <NUM> or a sort path <NUM>. The switching flapper <NUM> is a flapper for causing the sheets wrapped around the buffer roller <NUM> to come off the buffer roller <NUM> and guiding the sheets to the sort path <NUM>, or guiding the sheets wrapped around the buffer roller <NUM> while they are still wrapped around the buffer roller <NUM>, to a buffer path <NUM>. The sheets guided by the switching flapper <NUM> to the non-sort path <NUM> are discharged to a sample tray <NUM> through a discharge roller pair <NUM>. Also, the sheets guided by the switching flapper <NUM> to the sort path <NUM> are stacked on a middle tray (hereinafter referred to as a process tray) <NUM> through transfer rollers <NUM> and <NUM>. An alignment process, stapling process, and the like are performed, as required, on the bundle of sheets thus stacked on the process tray <NUM>, and thereafter, the sheets are discharged to a stack tray <NUM> by discharge rollers 680a and 680b. The stapling process of binding the bundle of sheets stacked on the process tray <NUM> together is performed using the stapler <NUM>. The stack tray <NUM> is configured to move up and down on its own.

<FIG> is a schematic diagram of the stapler <NUM>.

In <FIG>, a driver portion <NUM> serving as a contact portion moves in a direction indicated by an arrow during a stapling operation to be in contact with a sheet bundle P and press an upper surface of the sheet bundle P. At substantially the same time, a staple driving portion <NUM> drives a staple through the sheet bundle P. The driven staple is folded by the driver portion <NUM>, so that the stapling process is completed. The staple driving portion <NUM> and the driver portion <NUM> may be integrally provided and may be allowed to move toward a fixed staple folding portion. Also, a sensor is provided at the driver portion <NUM> and the staple driving portion <NUM>, to detect that the sheet bundle P has been inserted in an original insertion slot.

Referring back to <FIG>, a switch <NUM> is a mechanical switch for operating the stapler <NUM>. When the switch <NUM> is pressed in a state where the sheet bundle P has been detected by the sensor of the driver portion <NUM> and the staple driving portion <NUM>, the stapler <NUM> is operated to perform manual stapling. The switch <NUM> may be replaced by a software switch which may be provided in the console unit <NUM>, which will not be described.

Next, a saddle portion of the finisher <NUM> will be described. The sheets which have been passed through the first and second bookbinding paths <NUM> and <NUM>, are accommodated in an accommodation guide <NUM> by a transfer roller pair <NUM>, and then conveyed until the leading edge of the sheets contacts a movable sheet registration member <NUM>. A bookbinding inlet sensor <NUM> is provided upstream from the transfer roller pair <NUM>. Also, two pairs of staplers <NUM> are provided halfway through the accommodation guide <NUM>. These staplers <NUM> are configured to bind a sheet bundle at a middle thereof in association with anvils <NUM> facing the staplers <NUM>. A folding roller pair <NUM> is provided downstream from the staplers <NUM>. A poking member <NUM> is provided at an opposite position from the folding roller pair <NUM>. The poking member <NUM> is stuck out toward the sheet bundle accommodated in the accommodation guide <NUM> to push the sheet bundle into a nip of the folding roller pair <NUM>. Thereafter, the sheet bundle is folded by the folding roller pair <NUM>, and then discharged to a saddle discharge tray <NUM> through a discharge roller <NUM>. A bookbinding discharge sensor <NUM> is provided downstream from the discharge roller <NUM>. Also, when the sheet bundle stapled by the stapler <NUM> is folded, the registration member <NUM> is moved down by a predetermined distance after the end of the stapling process so that the sheet bundle will be stapled at a middle position of the folding roller pair <NUM>.

Finally, an inserter unit of the finisher <NUM> will be described.

An inserter <NUM> is provided at an upper portion of the finisher <NUM>. A bundle of sheets which are a cover or page (leaf), stacked on a tray <NUM>, are successively separated one after another, and conveyed to the finisher path <NUM> or the bookbinding path <NUM>. Here, special sheets are stacked on the tray <NUM> of the inserter <NUM> while they are directly viewed from the operator. In other words, the special sheets are stacked on the tray <NUM> with the surfaces thereof facing upward. The special sheets stacked on the tray <NUM> are conveyed by a feed roller <NUM> to a separation unit including a transfer roller <NUM> and a separation belt <NUM>, in which the sheets are successively separated and conveyed one at a time, with the uppermost sheet first. The presence or absence of a special sheet is determined using a sheet detection sensor <NUM> which is provided between the feed roller <NUM> and the transfer roller <NUM> to determine whether or not a special sheet is set on the tray <NUM>. An extraction roller pair <NUM> is provided downstream from the separation unit. A special sheet separated by the extraction roller pair <NUM> is stably guided to a conveyance path <NUM>. A fed-sheet sensor <NUM> is provided downstream from the extraction roller pair <NUM>. A transfer roller <NUM> for guiding a special sheet in the conveyance path <NUM> to the inlet roller pair <NUM> is provided between the fed-sheet sensor <NUM> and the inlet roller pair <NUM>.

<FIG> is a top view of the console unit <NUM> of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment.

The console unit <NUM>, which is connected to the control unit <NUM>, includes a display unit having functions such as a touchscreen and the like, hard keys, and the like, to provide a user interface for operating the image forming apparatus <NUM>. A display unit <NUM> is the display unit having the touchscreen function, which is used to set main mode settings and display states. A ten-key <NUM> is used to input a numerical value of <NUM> to <NUM>. An ID key <NUM> is used to input a department number and an identification mode when the image forming apparatus <NUM> is managed by a department. A reset key <NUM> is used to reset current modes. A guide key <NUM> is used to instruct the image forming apparatus <NUM> to display a screen for explaining each mode. A user mode key <NUM> is used to display a user mode screen. An interrupt key <NUM> is used to perform interrupt copying. A start key <NUM> is used to start a copying operation. A stop key <NUM> is used to stop a current copying job. A power saving key <NUM> is used to shift to a sleep state. When the power saving key <NUM> is pressed down, the backlight of the display unit <NUM> is turned off. A contrast adjustment key <NUM> is used to adjust the contrast of the display unit <NUM>. A counter checking key <NUM> is used to display, on the display unit <NUM>, a count screen for showing the count of copies which have been printed before the key is pressed down. An LED <NUM> is used to indicate that a job is being performed, or an image is being stored into an image memory. An error LED <NUM> is turned on when the image forming apparatus <NUM> is in an error state, such as jam, door open, or the like. A power source LED <NUM> is used to indicate that the main switch of the image forming apparatus <NUM> is on. Software buttons <NUM>-<NUM> are used to shift to a screen for functions of copying, scanning and saving, printing of saved documents, scanning and transmitting, faxing, and power visualizing, respectively. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to a screen for a copying function. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to a screen for a scanning and saving function of performing scanning using the scanner unit <NUM> and saving obtained image data to the hard disk <NUM>. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to a screen for a saved document printing function of printing image data stored in the hard disk <NUM> using the printer unit <NUM>. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to a screen for a scanning and transmitting function of transmitting image data obtained by the scanner unit <NUM> from the control unit <NUM> through the LAN <NUM> to the computer <NUM>. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to a screen for a faxing function of transmitting image data obtained by the scanner unit <NUM> from the control unit <NUM> through the fax unit <NUM> to a telephone line. The button <NUM> is a transition button which is used to shift to screen for a power visualizing function of allowing the user to check the power state of the image forming apparatus <NUM> on the display unit <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram for describing a power source system of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment.

Power is always supplied from a power source <NUM> through an all-night power source line <NUM> to a power source control unit <NUM>. Note that the power consumption of the power source control unit <NUM> is considerably small, and therefore, in a sleep mode, power control is performed so that power is supplied only to the power source control unit <NUM> and a portion which serves as a factor causing the image forming apparatus <NUM> to return from the sleep mode. A complex programmable logic device (CPLD) <NUM> is a hardware logic circuit which controls start and stop of power supply to each portion of the image forming apparatus <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM> is previously programmed to perform the following desired operations. Specifically, the CPLD <NUM> controls power supply from the power source <NUM> through a non-all-night power source line <NUM> to a control unit <NUM>, by turning a relay switch <NUM> on and off using an IO signal V_ON <NUM>. A CPU <NUM> sets a plurality of values for a timer. When the timer is activated, the CPLD <NUM> performs an operation set by the CPU <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM> also controls power supply from the power source <NUM> through a non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the printer unit <NUM>, by turning a relay switch <NUM> on and off using an IO signal P_ON <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM> can also operate a predetermined IO signal according to an instruction from the CPU <NUM>. The IO signal includes a DCON_LIVEWAKE signal <NUM> provided to a CPU <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM>. When the power source of the printer unit <NUM> is turned on in a state where the signal <NUM> has been asserted, the printer unit <NUM> quietly returns back without performing a specific operation, such as controlling a movable portion or using power. The specific operation includes control for, such as rotating a motor, roller, polygon, or the like, adjusting the temperatures of drums <NUM>-<NUM>, dissipating heat using a FAN <NUM>, and the like.

The CPU <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM> notifies the CPLD <NUM> of interruption of a sensor or the like using an INT_DCON signal <NUM> for notifying of interruption. The CPLD <NUM>, when receiving the interruption notification, turns the switch <NUM> on using an IO signal, i.e., the P_ON signal <NUM>, to supply power from the power source <NUM> through the non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the printer unit <NUM>.

A CPU <NUM> of the finisher <NUM> notifies the CPU <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM> of interruption from a sensor or the like using an INT_ACC signal <NUM> for notifying of interruption. The CPU <NUM> also notifies the CPLD <NUM> of the interruption using the INT_DCON signal <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM>, when receiving the interruption notification, turns the switch <NUM> on using an IO signal, i.e., the IO signal P_ON <NUM>. As a result, power is supplied from the power source <NUM> through the non-all-night power source line <NUM>, the printer unit <NUM>, and a non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the finisher <NUM>. Thus, power can also be supplied to the stapler <NUM> by supplying power to the finisher <NUM>. Note that the CPLD <NUM> can control power supply as required, without receiving interruption. As with the printer unit <NUM> described above, power supply to the scanner unit <NUM> can be controlled by the CPLD <NUM>, which will not be described, to avoid redundancy.

<FIG> is a block diagram for describing a configuration of the control unit <NUM> of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment.

The control unit <NUM> includes a main board <NUM> and a sub-board <NUM>. The main board <NUM> is a so-called general-purpose CPU circuit. The main board <NUM> includes the CPU <NUM> which controls the entire apparatus, a boot ROM <NUM> which contains a boot program, a memory <NUM> which the CPU <NUM> uses as a work memory, a bus controller <NUM> which has a bridge function with respect to an external bus, and a non-volatile memory <NUM>. The main board <NUM> further includes a disk controller <NUM> which controls a storage device, a flash disk <NUM> which is a storage device having a relatively small capacity which includes a semiconductor device, a USB controller <NUM> which controls a USB, and the like. Moreover, a USB memory <NUM>, the console unit <NUM>, the hard disk <NUM>, and the like, are connected to the main board <NUM>. The CPU <NUM> is also connected to the CPLD <NUM> which controls interruption from each device and power supply to each device. The main board <NUM> further includes a network controller <NUM>, and a real-time clock (RTC) <NUM>, and is also connected to the console unit <NUM>, the scanner unit <NUM>, the printer unit <NUM>, the fax unit <NUM>, the finisher <NUM>, and the like.

The sub-board <NUM> includes a relatively small general-purpose CPU system, and hardware for image processing. The sub-board <NUM> includes a CPU <NUM>, a memory <NUM> which the CPU <NUM> uses as a work memory, a bus controller <NUM> which has a bridge function with respect to an external bus, a non-volatile memory <NUM>, an image processor <NUM>, a device controller <NUM>, and the like. The scanner unit <NUM> and the printer unit <NUM> exchange digital image data through the device controller <NUM>. The fax unit <NUM> is directly controlled by the CPU <NUM>.

Note that <FIG> is a schematic block diagram. For example, although the CPU <NUM>, the CPU <NUM>, and the like include a large number of CPU peripheral hardware components, such as a chip set, bus bridge, clock generator, and the like, these components are not shown, for the sake of simplicity. This block configuration is not intended to limit the present invention.

Next, as an example operation of the control unit <NUM>, image copying will be described.

When the user instructs the image forming apparatus <NUM> using the console unit <NUM> to copy an image, the CPU <NUM> sends an instruction to read an original to the scanner unit <NUM> through the CPU <NUM>. As a result, the scanner unit <NUM> optically scans the original, converts an image of the original into image data, and inputs the image data to the image processor <NUM> through the device controller <NUM>. The image processor <NUM> performs image processing on the image data, and transfers the processed image data to the memory <NUM> by DMA, so that the image data is temporarily saved in the memory <NUM>. The CPU <NUM>, when confirming that all or a predetermined amount of the image data has been stored in the memory <NUM>, sends a print instruction to the printer unit <NUM> through the CPU <NUM>. At this time, the CPU <NUM> notifies the image processor <NUM> of an address of the image data in the memory <NUM>. The image data stored in the memory <NUM> is transmitted by the image processor <NUM> and the device controller <NUM> to the printer unit <NUM> according to a synchronization signal from the printer unit <NUM>, and then printed.

When a plurality of copies are printed, the CPU <NUM> saves image data of the memory <NUM> to the hard disk <NUM>, and the second copy and the following copies are printed by reading the image data from the memory <NUM>.

<FIG> is a block diagram for describing a state of power supply which occurs when the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment is in the sleep state. Note that this block diagram corresponds to the block diagram of <FIG>, and the same parts as those of <FIG> are indicated by the same reference characters.

The sleep state refers to a state in which power consumption is reduced, and from which activation can be completed more quickly than normal activation. For example, when a predetermined period of time has passed in the absence of the user's operation, or a soft switch of the console unit <NUM> is pressed down, the power saving function is started, and the image forming apparatus <NUM> eventually enters the sleep state.

In the sleep state, power supply is limited to a minimum number of parts, such as the memory <NUM>, CPLD <NUM>, and the like of the control unit <NUM>. Specifically, in the sleep state, power is supplied to parts other than those indicated by hatching in <FIG>. Note that power is also supplied to some of the parts indicated by hatching which will be required in order for the image forming apparatus <NUM> to return from the sleep state.

An operation of the control unit <NUM> in the sleep state according to the first embodiment will now be described with reference to <FIG>.

The parts which receive power in the sleep state include the network controller <NUM>, RTC <NUM>, USB controller <NUM>, and the like which send an interrupt for returning back from the sleep state to the CPLD <NUM>. Power is also supplied to the soft switch of the console unit <NUM>, sensors of the scanner unit <NUM>, printer unit <NUM>, and finisher <NUM>, the switch <NUM> (<FIG>) of the finisher <NUM>, some parts which detect signal arrival or off-hook of the fax unit <NUM>, and the like.

The CPLD <NUM> receives at least one interrupts from parts which receives power in the sleep state. Specifically, for example, when originals are inserted in the original insertion slot while power is supplied to the sensors of the driver portion <NUM> and staple driving portion <NUM> of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, the CPLD <NUM> receives an interrupt. Also, for example, when the switch <NUM> of the finisher <NUM> is pressed down while power is supplied to the switch <NUM>, the CPLD <NUM> receives an interrupt. When the CPLD <NUM> thus receives an interrupt, the CPLD <NUM> notifies the CPU <NUM> of the occurrence of the interruption. The CPU <NUM>, when receiving the interruption notification, performs a process of returning from the sleep state, i.e., returning the state of power supply or software to the normal state. Note that different systems have different causes of returning from the sleep state, and therefore, the power supply in the sleep state is not limited to this configuration.

<FIG> is a block diagram specifically showing only a portion of the configuration of <FIG> including the power source control and reset circuits of the control unit <NUM> while schematically showing the other parts.

A reset circuit <NUM> is provided on the main board <NUM>. The boot ROM <NUM> contains a BIOS which controls a basic portion of the hardware. As described above, the CPLD <NUM> monitors interruption to control power supply. A reset circuit <NUM> is provided on the sub-board <NUM>. Hardware circuits <NUM> and <NUM> are provided on the boards <NUM> and <NUM>, respectively, and include the controllers of <FIG>, and the like.

An internal state of synchronous hardware is reset according to a reset signal. Therefore, in a synchronous hardware circuit, after the power source is turned on and then power is supplied to each chip, a reset circuit needs to reset each hardware component. A plurality of hardware chips have a master-slave relationship, and, therefore, are successively reset according to a designed reset sequence. Therefore, in general, as shown in <FIG>, each board has one reset circuit, and a reset operation for each board is performed by the corresponding reset circuit.

The main board <NUM>, which is a master board in the image forming apparatus <NUM>, includes the CPLD <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM> receives an input indicating a switch state or the like from the power source switch <NUM>, and controls power supply to the main board <NUM> or the sub-board <NUM> using the relay switch <NUM>. The CPLD <NUM>, when the CPU <NUM> can operate normally, can reset the system according to an instruction from the CPU <NUM>. Conversely, when power is not supplied to the CPU <NUM>, then if the CPLD <NUM> receives an input of the power source switch <NUM>, the CPLD <NUM> turns the relay switch <NUM> on so that power is supplied to the control unit <NUM>.

The boot ROM <NUM> is a BIOS which contains a low-level hardware control library and the like. The boot ROM <NUM> is typically provided to ensure compatibility with IBM compatible machines or the like. Although the boot ROM <NUM> is not essential for a so-called computer system, the boot ROM <NUM> is provided in order to perform a portion of the power-saving functions defined in the ACPI standards. In the image forming apparatus <NUM> having the above hardware configuration, when the power source switch <NUM> is turned off, the CPU <NUM> is notified of a state of the power source switch <NUM> through the CPLD <NUM>. Specifically, upon detecting that the power source is off, the CPU <NUM> typically starts a shut-down sequence, and instructs the CPLD <NUM> to shut down. As a result, the relay switch <NUM> is turned off using the IO signal V_ON <NUM>, so that power supply from the power source <NUM> through the non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the control unit <NUM> is stopped, and therefore, the shut-down operation is completed. Because the execution of the program by the CPU <NUM> is also completed by the shut-down operation, the program of the CPU <NUM> is normally activated when the power source switch <NUM> is turned on at the next time.

Next, power supply which is performed when the image forming apparatus <NUM> is activated will be additionally described. When the operator uses the image forming apparatus <NUM>, the operator turns the power source switch <NUM> on. The CPLD <NUM>, upon detecting that the power source is turned on, turns the relay switch <NUM> on using the IO signal N_ON <NUM> so that power is supplied from the power source <NUM> through the non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the control unit <NUM>. As a result, the CPU <NUM> initializes the hardware. The initialization of the hardware includes initialization of a register, initialization of interruption, registration of a device driver during activation of a kernel, initialization of a display unit, and the like. Next, the CPU <NUM> initializes the software. The initialization of the software includes calling of an initialization routine of each library, activation of a process or thread, activation of a software service which communicates with the printer unit <NUM> or the scanner unit <NUM>, displaying of a display unit, and the like. After the end of the initialization process, the CPU <NUM> shifts to an idle state. Thereafter, power is supplied to the scanner unit <NUM>, the printer unit <NUM>, the finisher <NUM>, and the like. The CPUs of the printer unit <NUM>, scanner unit <NUM>, and finisher <NUM> each start an initialization operation which is performed when the power source is turned on.

Next, power supply which is performed in a normal state in which the printer unit <NUM> or scanner unit <NUM> of the image forming apparatus <NUM> is not used, will be additionally described. The normal state includes not only a state in which power is supplied to all units, but also, for example, a state in which power is not supplied to the printer unit <NUM> while printing is not being performed, a state in which power is not supplied to the scanner unit <NUM> while the display of the console unit <NUM> is off and the user is not present in front of the image forming apparatus <NUM>, and the like. Also, power is always supplied to the printer unit <NUM> or the scanner unit <NUM> in order to quickly complete the printing operation of the printer unit <NUM> or the reading operation of the scanner unit <NUM>. However, there are a state in which a motor or polygon for printing is not operated, a state in which the temperature of a transfer unit for printing is not adjusted, and an operation wait state in which home position detection for reading an original is not activated.

Next, power supply in a state in which the printer unit <NUM> or the scanner unit <NUM> is used when the image forming apparatus <NUM> receives and prints PDL data, will be additionally described.

Turning on and off of the power source of the printer unit <NUM> in the printing function will be described. The CPU <NUM> of the control unit <NUM>, when receiving print data from the computer <NUM> through the LAN <NUM>, stores the print data to the memory <NUM>. The CPU <NUM> analyzes the received print data, and when performing printing, generates a print job. The CPU <NUM> turns the switch <NUM> on using the IO signal P_ON <NUM> so that power is supplied to the printer unit <NUM>. When the printer unit <NUM> is thus enabled, the CPU <NUM> performs the print job. The CPU <NUM> transmits data from the memory <NUM> through the bus controllers <NUM> and <NUM>, the image processor <NUM>, and the device controller <NUM> to the printer unit <NUM>. The printer unit <NUM> prints the received data, and after the end of the printing, notifies the CPU <NUM> of the result. After the end of the printing, the CPU <NUM> causes the CPLD <NUM> to output the IO signal P_ON <NUM>, thereby switching the relay switch <NUM> off, so that power supply from the power source <NUM> through the non-all-night power source line <NUM> to the printer unit <NUM> is stopped.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process which is performed when the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the first embodiment shifts to the sleep state (power saving state). A program for performing this process is loaded from an HDD <NUM> to the memory <NUM> when the program is executed, and the process is achieved by the CPU <NUM> executing the program.

Initially, in step S1001, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not a timing at which the power saving function is started has come. The timing at which the power saving function is started is, for example, when the automatic sleep timer expires, when the automatic sleep time comes, when the automatic shut-down timer expires, when the automatic shut-down time comes, or the like. Here, if it is determined that the timing at which the power saving function is started has come, control proceeds to step S1002, in which the CPU <NUM> sets a flag (not shown) indicating the start of the power saving function to be on. The flag, which is provided in the memory <NUM>, indicates that the timing at which the power saving function is started has come.

Next, control proceeds to step S1003, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an inhibition condition for actually shifting to the power saving state is satisfied. The inhibition condition is, for example, that a print job is being performed when the timing at which the power saving function is started has come. This inhibition condition is set for preventing the occurrence of a drawback that if a print job which is being performed is interrupted by the power saving function, a desired printed material cannot be obtained. If it is determined in step S1003 that the inhibition condition is satisfied, the CPU <NUM> waits until the inhibition condition is determined not to be satisfied in step S1003, i.e., control proceeds to step S1004 after the inhibition condition is determined not to be satisfied in step S1003. In step S1004, the CPU <NUM> effects the power saving state so that the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state.

Thus, when the timing at which the power saving function is started has come and the image forming apparatus <NUM> is allowed to shift to the power saving state, the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state (power saving state).

A process which is performed when the power saving function of the first embodiment is performed will be described with reference to <FIG>.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process according to the first embodiment which is performed when the power saving function is performed in step S1004 of <FIG>.

Here, in step S1101, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the sensor at the original insertion slot of the manual stapler has detected an original. If an original has been detected, control proceeds to step S1102, in which the CPU <NUM> does not perform the power saving function. Note that, at this time, the flag set in the above step S1002 may be set to be off. On the other hand, if an original has not been detected in step S1101, control proceeds to step S1103, in which the CPU <NUM> performs control for performing the power saving function.

As a result, even when the manual stapling function and the power saving function are simultaneously enabled, the drawback that the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the power saving state during execution of manual stapling can be overcome. Specifically, when the manual stapling function is being performed, even if there is a notification that a condition under which the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the power saving state is satisfied by the shut-down operation, sleep timer, or the like, the image forming apparatus <NUM> does not shift to the power saving state as long as an original for manual stapling is set. Note that, as described above, the shift to the power saving state is triggered by the automatic sleep timer, automatic sleep time, automatic shut-down timer, automatic shut-down time, or the like.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process according to a second embodiment which is performed when the power saving function is performed in step S1004 of <FIG>. Note that an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to the second embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore, the configuration will not be described.

In the second embodiment, a process will be described which is performed in a state where an inhibition condition under which the power saving function cannot be performed is satisfied so that the power saving function is not performed, and even if, for example, the automatic sleep timer notifies that the power saving start time has come, the power saving function cannot be performed.

In step S1110, as in the above step S1101, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original is present in the original insertion slot of the manual stapler. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1111, in which the power saving function is caused not to be performed. On the other hand, if the determination result is negative in step S1110, control proceeds to step S1112, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the power saving function start time came, i.e., the shut-down timer, sleep timer, or the like expired in a state where an original was detected and therefore the power saving function was not performed. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1113, in which the CPU <NUM> immediately performs the power saving function which was not performed even when the start time came, and ends this process. As a result, if it was instructed to start the power saving function based on the shut-down timer, sleep timer, or the like in a state where the power saving function was not able to be performed due to detection of an original by the sensor of the manual stapler, the power saving function can be immediately performed. On the other hand, if the start time did not come, control proceeds to step S1114, in which the CPU <NUM> performs the power saving function according to the normal procedure.

Thus, according to the second embodiment, when an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, the execution of the power saving function of the stapler <NUM> can be stopped. Also, when an original is not present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, the power saving function which has not been performed, due to the previous presence of an original in the insertion slot, can be performed.

A third embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to <FIG>. Note that an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to the third embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore, the configuration will not be described.

The third embodiment is directed to an image forming apparatus which has a state in which the power source of the finisher <NUM> is on, a state in which the power source of the finisher <NUM> is off, and a state in which the power source of the finisher <NUM> is in an intermediate state between these states. When the image forming apparatus is in the intermediate state in which the power source shifts from the on state to the off state, then if the user tries to activate the manual stapler <NUM>, the power source of the finisher <NUM> is turned off during the activation of the manual stapler <NUM>.

Therefore, in order to solve such a problem, in the third embodiment, when an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, the turning off of the power source of the stapler <NUM> is delayed.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the third embodiment.

This process is started when the stapler <NUM> is caused to enter the power source off state by a power saving process, such as a shut-down process, sleep process, or the like. In step S1201, when the CPU <NUM> starts the shut-down process, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, by detection using the original detection sensor. Here, if the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1202, in which the CPU <NUM> does not immediately turn off the power source of the stapler <NUM>, and instead, reserves turning off of the power source and ends the turning-off process. On the other hand, if the determination result is negative in step S1201, control proceeds to step S1203, in which the CPU <NUM> turns off the power source of the stapler <NUM>. Even when the turning off of the power source is reserved, the power source is immediately turned off.

Thus, according to the third embodiment, when an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, the execution of the power saving process of the stapler <NUM> can be delayed.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process of an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to a fourth embodiment. Note that the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the fourth embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore, the configuration will not be described.

The fourth embodiment is directed to a drawback that when the display unit <NUM> of the image forming apparatus <NUM> is off, then if the manual stapler is shut down, the finisher <NUM> is suddenly disabled without the user's knowledge. In the fourth embodiment, when the display unit <NUM> is off and an original has been detected in the original insertion slot of the manual stapler, then if the shut-down process is performed, power is supplied to the display unit <NUM> so that the display unit <NUM> is turned on to display a message to the user. As a result, the user can recognize that the manual stapler has been shut down, based on the message displayed on the display unit <NUM>.

In step S1210, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, and if the determination result is negative, the process is directly ended. On the other hand, if the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1211, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the backlight of the display unit <NUM> is off. If the determination result is negative, control proceeds to step S1213. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1212, in which the CPU <NUM> turns on the backlight of the display unit <NUM>, and proceeds to step S1213. In step S1213, the CPU <NUM> displays a message which instructs the user to remove an original from the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, on the display unit <NUM>, and ends the process.

As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the user of the image forming apparatus can be notified of the shut-down process of the manual stapler.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process of an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to a fifth embodiment. Note that the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the fifth embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore, the configuration will not be described.

The fifth embodiment is directed to a drawback that when the image forming apparatus <NUM> is in the power saving state, then even if the user inserts an original into the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> in order to perform manual stapling, the stapling is not allowed.

The CPU <NUM> starts this process when the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state. Initially, in step S1301, the CPU <NUM> performs the power saving function, so that the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state. Next, control proceeds to step S1302, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original has been detected in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>. As described above, when the CPU <NUM> of the finisher has detected an original in the original insertion slot, the CPU <NUM> notifies the CPLD <NUM> of the presence of the original. As a result, the CPLD <NUM> turns the switch <NUM> on using the signal V_ON <NUM>, so that power supply to the control unit <NUM> is started to activate the CPU <NUM>, which then recognizes the presence of the original. If the CPU <NUM> has detected in step S1302 that an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, control proceeds to step S1303. In step S1303, the CPU <NUM> returns from the power saving state, and ends the process.

Specifically, in step S1303, the CPU of the finisher <NUM>, upon detecting an original using the sensor of the stapler <NUM>, notifies the CPLD <NUM> of the presence of the original using the interrupt signal INT_ACC <NUM>. As a result, the CPLD <NUM> turns the relay switch <NUM> on using the IO signal V_ON <NUM>, so that power is supplied to the control unit <NUM>, and the CPU <NUM> returns from the sleep state.

According to the fifth embodiment, when the image forming apparatus <NUM> is in the power saving state, then if the stapler <NUM> is to be used, the stapler <NUM> is allowed to be used even by setting an original in the stapler <NUM>, without the need to press the power saving key for returning back from the power saving state.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process of an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to a sixth embodiment. Note that the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the sixth embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, and therefore, the configuration will not be described.

In the sixth embodiment, when the stapler <NUM> does have a staple, then even if an original has been detected in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM>, the power saving function is performed. For example, when the stapler <NUM> does not have a staple, then if a condition for shifting to the sleep state is satisfied, the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state until the user has set staples in the stapler <NUM>.

Initially, in step S1401, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1402, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not a staple is present in the staple driving portion <NUM> of the stapler <NUM>. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1403, in which the CPU <NUM> inhibits the execution of the power saving function, and ends the process. At this time, timers and the like for the power saving function are not stopped.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S1401 that an original is not present, or it is determined in step S1402 that a staple is not present at the staple driving portion <NUM> of the stapler <NUM>, control proceeds to step S1404. In step S1404, as in step S1112 of <FIG>, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the power saving function start time came, i.e., the shut-down timer, sleep timer, or the like expired while an original was detected and therefore the power saving function was not performed. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1403, in which the CPU <NUM> immediately performs the power saving function which was not performed at the start time. On the other hand, if the start time did not come, control proceeds to step S1406, in which the CPU <NUM> performs the power saving function according to the normal procedure.

As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, when a staple is not present at the staple driving portion <NUM> of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, the power saving function can be caused not to be stopped. As a result, a situation that while the stapler cannot be used, the power saving function cannot be performed due to the finisher process, can be prevented from occurring.

Next, a seventh embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the seventh embodiment, the finisher <NUM> has a separate power source, and can perform manual stapling on its own, and therefore, the image forming apparatus <NUM> can shift to the power saving state.

Specifically, when the power saving time comes, e.g., the shut-down or sleep timer expires while the power saving function is inactive, i.e., for a period of time from the end of power saving to the start of power saving, the power saving function is immediately performed if the finisher <NUM> has a separate power source. Also, in the seventh embodiment, as in the second embodiment, the execution of the power saving function is delayed. However, instead of delaying the execution of the power saving function, the execution of the power saving function may be inhibited as in the first embodiment, which will not be described, to avoid redundancy.

<FIG> is a block diagram for describing a power source system of an image forming apparatus <NUM> according to the seventh embodiment. Note that the same parts as those of <FIG> are indicated by the same reference characters and will not be described.

In <FIG>, when a power source switch <NUM> of the finisher <NUM> is turned on, power is supplied from a power source <NUM> through a power source line <NUM> to the finisher <NUM>. Here, unlike the first embodiment, power is not supplied from the power source <NUM> to the finisher <NUM>.

<FIG> is a flowchart for describing a process of the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the seventh embodiment. Note that the image forming apparatus <NUM> of the seventh embodiment has a configuration similar to that of the first embodiment, which will not be described.

This process is started when the original detection sensor of the driver portion <NUM> and staple driving unit <NUM> detects that the user has inserted an original into the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>, and the CPU <NUM> receives a notification from the sensor. Initially, in step S1601, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not an original is present in the original insertion slot of the stapler <NUM> of the finisher <NUM>. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1602, in which the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the finisher <NUM> has a separate power source, by inquiring of the finisher <NUM>. Specifically, the CPU <NUM> communicates with the CPU <NUM> of the sub-board <NUM> through the bus controllers <NUM> and <NUM>. The CPU <NUM> also communicates with the CPU <NUM> of the finisher <NUM> through the image processor <NUM>, the device controller <NUM>, and the CPU <NUM> of the printer unit <NUM>. Thereafter, the CPU <NUM> inquires whether or not the power source switch <NUM> is present in the finisher <NUM>, and receives the response, to determine whether or not the finisher <NUM> has a separate power source. If, in step S1602, the CPU <NUM> determines that the finisher <NUM> does not have a separate power source, control proceeds to step S1603, in which the CPU <NUM> inhibits the execution of the power saving function, and ends the process. In this case, timers and the like for the power saving function are not stopped.

On the other hand, if, in step S1601, the CPU <NUM> determines that an original is not present, or if, in step S1602, the CPU <NUM> determines that the finisher <NUM> has a separate power source, control proceeds to step S1604, in which the CPU <NUM> performs a process similar to that of step S1112 of <FIG> or the like. Specifically, the CPU <NUM> determines whether or not the power saving function timer has expired or the designated time of the power saving function has come from the time of inhibition of the execution of the power saving function until the time of the start of the power saving function. If the determination result is positive, control proceeds to step S1605. In step S1605, the CPU <NUM> immediately performs the power saving function, and ends the process. Otherwise, control proceeds to step S1606, in which the CPU <NUM> normally performs the power saving function, and ends the process.

As described above, according to the seventh embodiment, if the image forming apparatus <NUM> and the finisher <NUM> have different power sources, then even when the image forming apparatus <NUM> shifts to the sleep state, the finisher is not influenced, and therefore, the image forming apparatus <NUM> can immediately perform the power saving function.

In the above embodiments, if a condition for shifting to the power saving state is satisfied (S1003: Yes), the power saving function is performed. When the power saving function is performed, then if the sensor of the stapler has detected an original, the execution of the power saving function is inhibited, for example. However, in the above embodiments, a condition for shifting to the power saving state may be that the sensor of the stapler has not detected an original. Specifically, in step S1003, if the sensor of the stapler has not detected an original (S1003: No), the process of step S1004 may be performed.

Claim 1:
An image forming apparatus that includes a printer unit (<NUM>) for forming an image on a sheet, that includes a finisher (<NUM>), and that is capable of operating in a first power state and operating in a second power state in which less power is consumed than in the first power state, and wherein an image can be formed on a sheet by the printer unit in the first power state but not in the second power state,
the finisher comprising:
detection means (<NUM>) for detecting a sheet inserted from an original insertion slot of the finisher to a predetermined position of the finisher; and
stapling means (<NUM>) for stapling sheets conveyed from the printer unit and for manually stapling one or more original sheets inserted from the original insertion slot of the finisher and detected by the detection means, wherein one or more sheets inserted from the original insertion slot can be stapled in the first power state but not in the second power state,
the image forming apparatus comprising:
receiving means (<NUM>) for receiving a user operation via a key (<NUM>-<NUM>) or a touchscreen (<NUM>),
characterized by further comprising:
power source control means (<NUM>) for shifting a power state of the image forming apparatus from the first power state to the second power state based on a predetermined period of time having passed in an absence of the user operation received by the receiving means, wherein in a situation that the sheet has been inserted to the predetermined position, the power source control means does not shift the power state of the image forming apparatus from the first power state to the second power state even if the predetermined period of time has passed in the absence of the user operation received by the receiving means in the first power state,
wherein in a case where a sheet has been inserted from the original insertion slot to the predetermined position while the touchscreen has been off, and where the power state of the image forming apparatus is in the second power state, the touchscreen is turned on and displays a message for asking a user to remove the sheet from the original insertion slot.