JP7200625B2 - IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS AND IMAGE FORMING APPARATUS CONTROL PROGRAM - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and a control program for the image forming apparatus. More particularly, the present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function and a control program for the image forming apparatus.

Electrophotographic image forming apparatuses include MFPs (Multi Function Peripherals), facsimile machines, copiers, printers, etc., which have scanner functions, facsimile functions, copying functions, functions as printers, data communication functions, and server functions. be.

Some image forming apparatuses have a hibernation function in order to shorten the startup time when resuming from a sleep state. The hibernation function creates a snapshot of the information stored in the main memory before entering the sleep state, saves it in the auxiliary storage device, and expands the snapshot to the main memory when returning from the sleep state. It is a function to According to the hibernation function, it is possible to quickly set various parameters necessary for restoring the image forming apparatus.

Techniques related to transition to and return from the sleep state of conventional image forming apparatuses are disclosed, for example, in Patent Documents 1 and 2 listed below.

Patent Document 1 below describes a print image compression unit that compresses a print image, a print image decompression unit that performs corresponding decompression processing, and whether or not the content stored in the main memory can be processed by the print image compression unit. An image processing apparatus is disclosed which includes a memory image storage control unit which analyzes whether or not and creates a compression method table. In this image processing apparatus, a memory image storage control unit refers to a compression method table, and compresses a memory image while switching between a CPU (Central Processing Unit) compression unit and a print image compression unit, and stores the memory image in a HDD (Hard Disk Drive). Save to The memory image recovery control section expands the information read from the HDD and stores it in the main memory while switching between the CPU expansion section and the print image expansion section corresponding to the CPU compression section and the print image compression section used for compression processing. return.

In Patent Document 2 below, in an MFP having at least two states, a normal state and a deep sleep state that consumes less power than the normal state, return data generation means is configured to shift the state from the normal state to the deep sleep state. In this case, by preferentially compressing print result affecting data that affects the print result of the printer among the data on the RAM (Random Access Memory) immediately before the state shifts from the normal state to the deep sleep state, Techniques for generating recovery data on a nonvolatile memory device have been disclosed. In this MFP, when the state returns from the deep sleep state to the normal state, the return data usage means decompresses the return data on the nonvolatile storage device onto the RAM.

JP 2004-038545 A JP 2013-051638 A

In recent image forming apparatuses, the number of parameters to be set when returning from a sleep state is increasing due to an increase in the number of mounted parts and input/output ports. Along with this, there is a tendency for the start-up time at the time of recovery to become longer.

In particular, when the image forming apparatus wakes up from the sleep state after receiving a print job execution instruction, it takes a long time to start printing, and a long time is required to complete printing. . In addition to the setting of various parameters required for restarting the image forming apparatus, image processing setting values of various parameters (Application Specific Integrated Circuit (ASIC)) according to the printing conditions of the print job (resolution of the image to be printed and paper type). , IP setting values such as PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), etc.) need to be set.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus and a control program for the image forming apparatus that can shorten the time required to complete printing.

An image forming apparatus according to one aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the main storage storing information when power is supplied and not holding information when power is not supplied; Auxiliary storage that holds information without power supply, and information that is stored in the main storage when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage. Snap of each of a plurality of job runtime information that is information corresponding to each of a plurality of mutually different printing conditions that may be set in the print job. creation means for creating shots; storage means for storing snapshots of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creation means in an auxiliary storage; When a print job execution instruction is received in the sleep state, which is a sleep state, a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit is selected for the print job for which the execution instruction is received. and a snapshot of the job execution information selected by the selection means after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state. writing means for writing shots into a main memory, wherein each of the plurality of job execution time information includes set values set based on each of a plurality of print conditions that may be set in a print job and are different from each other; and the creating means creates each of the plurality of job execution time information by creating each virtual print job in which each of a plurality of printing conditions different from each other that may be set in the print job is set. Create a snapshot.
An image forming apparatus according to another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the main storage storing information when power is supplied and not holding information when power is not supplied; Auxiliary storage that holds information without power supply, and information that is stored in the main storage when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage. Snap of each of a plurality of job runtime information that is information corresponding to each of a plurality of mutually different printing conditions that may be set in the print job. creation means for creating shots; storage means for storing snapshots of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creation means in an auxiliary storage; When a print job execution instruction is received in the sleep state, which is a sleep state, a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit is selected for the print job for which the execution instruction is received. and a snapshot of the job execution information selected by the selection means after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state. Writing means for writing shots to the main memory, ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) for controlling image processing and operation of the printer engine when printing based on a print job, and ASIC, which is software for controlling the operation of the ASIC. a driver; and notification means for notifying an ASIC driver of a virtual execution instruction of a print job in which each of a plurality of print conditions is set when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state, wherein the ASIC driver notifies When receiving a notification from the means, the printer engine outputs parameter setting values for executing a print job and setting values for image processing performed by the ASIC at the time of the print job to the main storage unit, and the creating means outputs , based on the information output by the ASIC driver to the main storage unit, a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information is created.
An image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, comprising a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied. , an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply, and a main storage unit that stores information when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. each of a plurality of job execution-time information that is information corresponding to each of a plurality of mutually different printing conditions that may be set in a print job. creation means for creating a snapshot; storage means for storing each snapshot of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information created by the creation means in an auxiliary storage; When a print job execution instruction is received in the sleep state, which is a state that does not selection means for selecting a snapshot of the job execution time information based on the specified printing conditions; A writing means for writing a snapshot to a main memory, and when the state of the image forming apparatus is in the sleep state, the state of the image forming apparatus is changed from the sleep state to the normal state when the print job execution instruction is received. and another writing means for writing a snapshot of the common setting values to the main storage later, and the common setting values are stored in the image forming apparatus from the sleep state to the normal state regardless of whether or not there is an instruction to execute the print job. It is a setting value that is set in common when migrating, and selection of a snapshot of job execution time information by the selection means is performed in parallel with writing of a snapshot of the common setting value by other writing means.
An image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, comprising a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied. , an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply, and a main storage unit that stores information when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. each of a plurality of job execution-time information that is information corresponding to each of a plurality of mutually different printing conditions that may be set in a print job. creation means for creating a snapshot; storage means for storing each snapshot of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information created by the creation means in an auxiliary storage; When a print job execution instruction is received in the sleep state, which is a state that does not selection means for selecting a snapshot of the job execution time information based on the specified printing conditions; a writing means for writing the snapshot to the main memory, and the print job for which the execution instruction is accepted includes information of each image of the plurality of pages to be printed, and rasterizes each image of the plurality of pages. processing means; and calculation means for calculating a load when the processing means rasterizes each image of the plurality of pages based on the information of each image of the plurality of pages, wherein the processing means calculates A page with a larger load calculated by means is rasterized in the later order.

Preferably, in the above image forming apparatus, the creating unit is in a standby state in which the image forming apparatus is in a normal state, in which a print job can be executed, and is in a state of waiting for a print job execution instruction, or when the image forming apparatus is in a standby state. When the state of the apparatus shifts from the normal state to the sleep state, a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information is created.

In the above image forming apparatus, preferably, the creating means includes first creating means for creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of pieces of job execution time information when the print job is executed at each of the plurality of mutually different resolutions.

In the above image forming apparatus, preferably, the creation means creates a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information when executing a print job for printing on each of a plurality of different types of paper. including the means of creating

In the above image forming apparatus, preferably, the creating means includes first creating means for creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information when the print job is executed at each of a plurality of mutually different resolutions; After creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job execution time information when executing a print job at each of a plurality of resolutions by a first creating means, printing on each of a plurality of mutually different types of paper a second creating means for creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution information when executing a print job that performs

Preferably, in the above image forming apparatus, the print job whose execution instruction has been received is PDL (Page Description Language) data and includes at least one of resolution and paper type information.

In the above image forming apparatus, preferably, the print job for which the execution instruction has been received includes information of each image of a plurality of pages to be printed, processing means for rasterizing each image of the plurality of pages; calculating means for calculating a load when the processing means rasterizes each image of the plurality of pages based on the information of each image of the page, wherein the processing means calculates the load calculated by the calculating means; Larger pages are rasterized in later order.

A control program for an image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the image forming apparatus storing information when power is supplied, and A main storage section that does not hold information when the image forming apparatus is not supplied with power, and an auxiliary storage section that holds information without power supply. each of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information that is information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed in the case of a state, and a plurality of mutually different print conditions that may be set in the print job a creation step of creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information, which is information corresponding to each of; storing a plurality of pieces of job execution time information stored in an auxiliary storage unit when an instruction to execute a print job is received when the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit; A selection step of selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received; and a writing step of writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selection step into the main memory after the shift to the printing step. A setting value set based on each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a job, and in a creation step, each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a print job create a snapshot of each of the plurality of job run-time information by creating each of the virtual print jobs with the .
A control program for an image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the image forming apparatus storing information when power is supplied, and A main storage section that does not hold information when the image forming apparatus is not supplied with power, and an auxiliary storage section that holds information without power supply. each of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information that is information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed in the case of a state, and a plurality of mutually different print conditions that may be set in the print job a creation step of creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information, which is information corresponding to each of; storing a plurality of pieces of job execution time information stored in an auxiliary storage unit when an instruction to execute a print job is received when the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit; a selection step of selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction is accepted; and a write step of writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selection step into the main storage unit after the image forming apparatus has shifted to the state of the print job. ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) that controls image processing and the operation of the printer engine when performing printing, and an ASIC driver that is software that controls the operation of the ASIC. state, the computer further executes a notification step of notifying the ASIC driver of a virtual execution instruction of a print job in which each of the plurality of print conditions is set, and the ASIC driver When the printer engine receives the notification, it outputs the setting values of the parameters used when the printer engine executes the print job and the setting values of the image processing performed by the ASIC during the print job to the main storage unit, and in the creation step, the ASIC driver Based on the information output to the main memory by Create a snapshot of each of the multiple job runtime information.
A control program for an image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the image forming apparatus storing information when power is supplied, and A main storage section that does not hold information when the image forming apparatus is not supplied with power, and an auxiliary storage section that holds information without power supply. each of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information that is information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed in the case of a state, and a plurality of mutually different print conditions that may be set in the print job a creation step of creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information, which is information corresponding to each of; storing a plurality of pieces of job execution time information stored in an auxiliary storage unit when an instruction to execute a print job is received when the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit; A selection step of selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received; , a write step of writing a snapshot of job execution time information selected in the selection step to the main storage unit, and a print job execution instruction is received when the state of the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state. In some cases, after the state of the image forming apparatus has changed from the sleep state to the normal state, the computer executes another write step of writing a snapshot of the common setting values to the main memory. The value is a set value that is commonly set when the state of the image forming apparatus transitions from the sleep state to the normal state regardless of whether or not there is an instruction to execute a print job, and is a snapshot of job execution time information in the selection step. is performed in parallel with writing snapshots of common settings in other writing steps.
A control program for an image forming apparatus according to still another aspect of the present invention is a control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function, the image forming apparatus storing information when power is supplied, and A main storage section that does not hold information when the image forming apparatus is not supplied with power, and an auxiliary storage section that holds information without power supply. each of a plurality of pieces of job execution time information that is information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed in the case of a state, and a plurality of mutually different print conditions that may be set in the print job a creation step of creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information, which is information corresponding to each of; storing a plurality of pieces of job execution time information stored in an auxiliary storage unit when an instruction to execute a print job is received when the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit; A selection step of selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received; , the computer executes the write step of writing the snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selection step into the main memory. The control program includes a processing step of rasterizing each image of the plurality of pages, and based on the information of each image of the plurality of pages, the image information of each of the plurality of pages. and a calculation step for calculating the load when each image is rasterized in the processing step . are rasterized in the order of

According to the present invention, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus and a control program for the image forming apparatus that can shorten the time required to complete printing.

1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the invention; FIG. FIG. 2 is a first conceptual diagram for explaining snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a second conceptual diagram for explaining the snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 9 is a third conceptual diagram for explaining the snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention; 4 is a sequence diagram of a snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a flow chart of snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4A and 4B are conceptual diagrams illustrating a snapshot development operation of the image forming apparatus 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a sequence diagram of a snapshot development operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention; FIG. 4 is a flowchart of snapshot development operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

In the following embodiments, a case where the image forming apparatus is an MFP will be described. The image forming apparatus may be a printer, a copier, a facsimile machine, or the like, in addition to the MFP.

(Configuration of image forming apparatus)

First, the configuration of the image forming apparatus according to this embodiment will be described.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the invention.

Referring to FIG. 1, image forming apparatus 100 according to the present embodiment includes controller board 1, auxiliary storage device 31 (an example of an auxiliary storage unit), power control unit 32, printer engine 33, and operation unit 34. , a display unit 35 , a facsimile unit 36 , an image reading unit 37 and a network interface 38 . Controller board 1 , auxiliary storage device 31 , power control unit 32 , printer engine 33 , operation unit 34 , display unit 35 , facsimile unit 36 , image reading unit 37 , and network interface 38 are interconnected via bus 2 . It is connected.

The controller board 1 is equipped with a CPU 11 , a ROM (Read Only Memory) 13 , a system memory 14 (an example of a main memory), an ASIC 21 , a local memory 23 and an external interface 24 . The CPU 11 is connected to each of the ROM 13, the system memory 14, the ASIC 21, and the external interface 24 by PCI (Peripheral Component InterConnect) Express (registered trademark), and communicates with each other. The ASIC 21 communicates with the local memory 23 with each other. The CPU 11, the ROM 13, and the system memory 14 control the system control unit 10 (an example of creation means, storage means, selection means, writing means, notification means, other writing means, first and second creation means, processing means, and calculation means). ) is configured.

The CPU 11 controls the entire image forming apparatus 100 for various jobs such as scan jobs, copy jobs, mail transmission jobs, and print jobs. The CPU 11 also executes a control program 41 stored in the ROM 13 . A register 12 is built in the CPU 11 .

ROM 13 is, for example, a flash ROM. The ROM 13 stores various control programs 41 executed by the CPU 11, an ASIC driver 42, and various fixed data. The ROM 13 may be non-rewritable. The ASIC driver 42 is software that controls the operation of the ASIC 21 .

The system memory 14 is a main storage device and an address space (memory space) managed by the CPU 11 . The system memory 14 is used for temporarily storing data and image data required when the CPU 11 executes various programs.

The ASIC 21 controls image processing and the operation of the printer engine 33 when printing is performed based on a print job. The ASIC 21 includes a controller for the local memory 23 and writes information to and reads information from the local memory 23 . When viewed from the CPU 11 , the ASIC 21 is part of the PCI Express address space managed by the CPU 11 . The ASIC 21 incorporates a register 22 .

A local memory 23 is a work area dedicated to the ASIC 21 .

The external interface 24 transmits and receives various information to and from each member (the operation unit 34, the display unit 35, the facsimile unit 36, etc.) within the image forming apparatus 100 connected to the bus 2. FIG.

The auxiliary storage device 31 is, for example, an HDD or SSD (Solid State Drive). The auxiliary storage device 31 stores various data such as various device drivers 43 and various applications (application programs). The various device drivers 43 are software that controls operations of specific hardware other than the printer engine 33 (the operation unit 34, the display unit 35, the facsimile unit 36, the image reading unit 37, the network interface 38, etc.). The various applications 44 are application programs executed by the image forming apparatus 100 .

The power control unit 32 controls power supply to the image forming apparatus 100 . Power control unit 32 shifts the state of image forming apparatus 100 between a normal state and a sleep state. A normal state is a state in which power is supplied to all of the specified components, including system memory 14 . The normal state includes a print state in which a print job is being executed, and a standby state in which a print job execution instruction is waited for in a print job executable state. The sleep state is a state in which power is not supplied to specific members including the system memory 14 (state in which power supply to specific members is cut off), and power consumption is lower than in the normal state.

System memory 14 stores information when image forming apparatus 100 is in a normal state (when power is supplied to system memory 14), and when image forming apparatus 100 is in a sleep state (when power is not supplied to system memory 14). (if not supplied). On the other hand, the auxiliary storage device 31 retains information without power supply.

The printer engine 33 performs a print job for forming an image on paper or the like based on image data. The printer engine 33 is roughly composed of a toner image forming section, a fixing device, a paper conveying section, and the like. The printer engine 33 forms an image on paper, for example, by electrophotography. The toner image forming section forms an image on paper. The toner image forming section includes a developing device that develops a toner image, a photoreceptor on which the toner image is formed, a transfer section that transfers an image from the photoreceptor to a sheet, and the like. The fixing device has a heating roller and a pressure roller. The fixing device conveys a sheet on which a toner image is formed while sandwiching it between a heating roller and a pressure roller, and heats and presses the sheet. Thereby, the fixing device melts the toner adhering to the paper and fixes it to the paper, thereby forming an image on the paper. The paper conveying unit is composed of a paper feed roller, a conveying roller, a motor for driving them, and the like. The paper conveying unit feeds paper from a paper feed cassette and conveys the paper inside the housing of the image forming apparatus 100 . Further, the paper conveying unit discharges the paper on which the image is formed from the housing of the image forming apparatus 100 to a paper discharge tray or the like.

The operation unit 34 receives various operations from the user of the image forming apparatus 100 .

The display unit 35 displays various information to the user of the image forming apparatus 100 .

The facsimile unit 36 transmits and receives facsimile data.

The image reading unit 37 reads an image of a document and generates data of the read image.

The network interface 38 transmits and receives various types of information to and from an external device such as a PC (Personal Computer), server, or other image forming apparatus via the network 200 . In particular, the network interface 38 receives print jobs from PCs used by users. When the network interface 38 receives a print job, the system control unit 10 determines that an instruction to execute the print job has been received.

Note that the control program 41 of the image forming apparatus 100 has a hibernation function. The hibernation function stores information held in the system memory 14 in the auxiliary storage device 31 before the state of the image forming apparatus 100 shifts from the normal state to the sleep state, and changes the state of the image forming apparatus 100 to the sleep state. This function is to write the information stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 to the system memory 14 when the normal state is entered. According to the hibernation function, when the image forming apparatus returns to the normal state, the image forming apparatus 100 can quickly return to the state before shifting to the sleep state.

(Snapshot creation operation)

When the state of the image forming apparatus 100 is the normal state, the power control unit 32 does not accept an operation on the operation unit 34 and does not accept a print job execution instruction on the network interface 38, and a predetermined time elapses. When it does, it transmits to the system control unit 10 a sleep request (sleep entry signal), which is a request to shift the state of the image forming apparatus 100 from the normal state to the sleep state.

When the system control unit 10 receives a sleep request (when shifting to the sleep state), the system control unit 10 performs the snapshot creation operation described below. When the snapshot creation operation is completed, the system control unit 10 notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the snapshot creation operation. Upon receiving this notification, the power control unit 32 shifts the state of the image forming apparatus 100 from the normal state to the sleep state.

2 to 4 are conceptual diagrams explaining the snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 2, the snapshot creation operation is an operation of saving data stored in system memory 14 as a snapshot in auxiliary storage device 31, and is an operation executed by CPU 11 based on control program 41. .

When the system control unit 10 receives a sleep request from the power control unit 32 (process PR1), the system control unit 10 receives the ASIC driver 42, the external interface 24, various device drivers 43, various applications 44, and a memory management unit driver (system memory 14) of virtual execution instructions for print jobs (processes PR2A, PR2B, PR2C, and PR2D). Printing conditions are set for this print job. By generating a virtual activation trigger, the system control unit 10 activates each of the ASIC driver 42, the external interface 24, the various device drivers 43, the various applications 44, and the driver of the memory management unit, and activates the virtual print mode. move to

The ASIC driver 42 and the external interface 24 perform hardware settings (hardware training) when a print job is executed. Various device drivers 43 and various applications 44 perform software settings when a print job is executed. The management section performs system settings (memory management settings, etc.).

When the ASIC driver 42 receives the notification of the virtual execution instruction of the print job, the ASIC driver 42, based on the printing conditions set in the print job, sets each of the IP setting values and image processing setting values (first (hardware set value) and stored in system memory 14 and register 22 (process PR3A).

The IP setting value of the ASIC that requires training is the parameter setting value when each member constituting the printer engine 33 controlled by the ASIC 21 executes a print job. is the setting value to set. The image processing setting value is a setting value for image processing performed by the ASIC 21 at the time of a print job, and is a setting value that depends on the printer engine 33 and print job information.

Here, it is assumed that the print job is set with the default print conditions that "the resolution is 600 dpi and the paper type is plain paper." The ASIC driver 42 sets the IP setting value ST10 and the image processing setting value ST0 of the ASIC based on the default printing conditions that "the resolution is 600 dpi and the paper type is plain paper."

When the storage in the system memory 14 and register 22 is completed, the ASIC driver 42 notifies the system control unit 10 of the completion of the setting of the ASIC IP setting values and image processing setting values (end interrupt).

When the external interface 24 receives the notification of the virtual execution instruction of the print job, the external interface 24 sets the IP setting value ST21 (second hardware setting value) of each component in the image forming apparatus 100 requiring training, and the system Store in memory 14 and register 22 (process PR3B). The IP setting value ST21 of each member in the image forming apparatus 100 that requires training means that the external interface 24 is set for each member (operation unit 34, display unit 35, facsimile unit 36, etc.) with which the external interface 24 communicates. These are the setting values that are set when executing a print job.

Further, when receiving the notification of the virtual execution instruction of the print job, the various device drivers 43 set the set values ST22 (first software set values) after initialization of various parameters, and store them in the system memory 14 ( process PR3C).

Furthermore, when receiving the notification of the virtual execution instruction of the print job, the various applications 44 set the setting values ST23 (second software setting values) after initialization of various parameters, and store them in the system memory 14 (process PR3D).

The external interface 24, various device drivers 43, and various applications 44 notify the system control unit 10 of the completion of setting (end interrupt) when the storage in the system memory 14 is completed.

Referring to FIG. 3, upon receiving notifications from each of ASIC driver 42, external interface 24, various device drivers 43, and various applications 44, system control unit 10 changes the IP settings of the ASIC stored in system memory 14. A snapshot is created based on the value ST10, the image processing setting value ST0, the IP setting value ST21 of each member in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the setting value ST23 after initialization.

Specifically, the ASIC IP setting value ST10 and the image processing setting value ST0 of the default printing conditions of "the resolution is 600 dpi and the paper type is plain paper", and the IPs of the members in the image forming apparatus 100 Based on the set value ST21, the set value ST22 after initialization, and the set value ST23 after initialization, a snapshot MS0 of the default printing conditions of "the resolution is 600 dpi and the paper type is plain paper" is created. created (process PR4A). The system control unit 10 reads each of the IP setting value ST10, the image processing setting value ST0, the IP setting value ST21, the setting value ST22, and the setting value ST23 of the ASIC necessary for creating a snapshot into the register 12, thereby creating a snapshot. MS0 is created, and the created snapshot MS0 is stored in a predetermined work area of the system memory 14. - 特許庁

Referring to FIG. 4, system control unit 10 then compresses (reversibly compresses) snapshot MS0 stored in system memory 14, and stores the compressed snapshot MS0 in auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5A). .

2 to 4, the IP setting values and image processing setting values set by the ASIC driver 42 differ depending on the printing conditions of the print job. For this reason, the system control unit 10 sequentially instructs the ASIC driver 42 to execute virtual print jobs in which a plurality of mutually different print conditions (image resolution, paper type, etc.) are set. By notifying the ASIC driver 42, each of the IP setting values and image processing setting values set by the ASIC driver 42 corresponding to each of a plurality of different print conditions that may be set in the print job are acquired. do.

On the other hand, the IP setting value ST21 of each member in the image forming apparatus 100 and the setting values ST22 and ST23 after initialization of various parameters are the same regardless of the printing conditions of the print job. For this reason, the system control unit 10 instructs each of the external interface 24, various device drivers 43, and various applications 44 to execute a virtual print job only once. The IP set value ST21 and the set values ST22 and ST23 after initialization of various parameters need only be obtained once.

Specifically, after saving the snapshot MS0 in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 instructs the ASIC driver 42 to execute a virtual print job in which the print condition "resolution is 300 dpi" is set. Notify (process PR2A). The ASIC driver 42 sets the ASIC IP setting value ST11 and image processing setting value ST1 based on these printing conditions, and stores them in the system memory 14 and the register 22 (process PR3A). The system control unit 10 controls the ASIC IP setting value ST11, the image processing setting value ST1, the IP setting value ST21 of each component in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the initial setting value ST22 of the ASIC stored in the system memory 14. A snapshot MS1 is created based on the post-compression set value ST23 (process PR4B), and the compressed snapshot MS1 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5B).

After saving the snapshot MS1 in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 notifies the ASIC driver 42 of a virtual execution instruction for a print job in which the print condition "resolution is 1200 dpi" is set (processing PR2A). ). The ASIC driver 42 sets the ASIC IP setting value ST12 and image processing setting value ST2 based on these printing conditions, and stores them in the system memory 14 and the register 22 (process PR3A). The system control unit 10 controls the ASIC IP setting value ST12, the image processing setting value ST2, the IP setting value ST21 of each member in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the initial setting value ST22 of the ASIC stored in the system memory 14. A snapshot MS2 is created based on the post-compression set value ST23 (process PR4C), and the compressed snapshot MS2 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5C).

After saving the snapshot MS2 in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 notifies the ASIC driver 42 of a virtual execution instruction for a print job in which the print condition "resolution is 2400 dpi" is set (processing PR2A). ). The ASIC driver 42 sets the ASIC IP setting value ST13 and image processing setting value ST3 based on these printing conditions, and stores them in the system memory 14 and the register 22 (process PR3A). The system control unit 10 controls the ASIC IP setting value ST13, the image processing setting value ST3, the IP setting value ST21 of each member in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the initial setting value ST22 of the ASIC stored in the system memory 14. A snapshot MS3 is created based on the post-compression set value ST23 (process PR4D), and the compressed snapshot MS3 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5D).

After saving the snapshot MS3 in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 notifies the ASIC driver 42 of a virtual execution instruction for a print job in which the print condition "Paper type is thin paper" is set ( process PR2A). The ASIC driver 42 sets the ASIC IP setting value ST14 and image processing setting value ST4 based on these printing conditions, and stores them in the system memory 14 and the register 22 (process PR3A). The system control unit 10 controls the ASIC IP setting value ST14, the image processing setting value ST4, the IP setting value ST21 of each component in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the initial setting value ST22 of the ASIC stored in the system memory . A snapshot MS4 is created based on the post-compression set value ST23 (process PR4E), and the compressed snapshot MS4 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5E).

After saving the snapshot MS4 in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 notifies the ASIC driver 42 of a virtual execution instruction for a print job in which the print condition "paper type is thick paper" is set ( process PR2A). The ASIC driver 42 sets the ASIC IP setting value ST15 and image processing setting value ST5 based on these printing conditions, and stores them in the system memory 14 and the register 22 (process PR3A). The system control unit 10 controls the ASIC IP setting value ST15, the image processing setting value ST5, the IP setting value ST21 of each component in the image forming apparatus 100, the setting value ST22 after initialization, and the initial setting value ST22 of the ASIC stored in the system memory 14. A snapshot MS5 is created based on the post-compression set value ST23 (process PR4F), and the compressed snapshot MS5 is stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR5F).

Each of the snapshots MS0, MS1, MS2, MS3, MS4, MS5 is information stored in the system memory 14 when executing a print job, and is a plurality of different snapshots that may be set in the print job. It includes ASIC IP setting values and image processing setting values (an example of job execution time information), which are information corresponding to each of the printing conditions.

Snapshots MS1, MS2, and MS3 by resolution include various setting values related to resolution (hardware (image processing table in user logic), engine (PWM (Pulse Width Modulation), etc.), settings related to IP parameters, etc. )It is included. Snapshots MS4 and MS5 by paper type contain various settings related to paper type, such as settings related to hardware (image processing tables in user logic), system speed, and IP parameters.

In the snapshot creation operation, the system control unit 10 creates and saves the snapshots MS0, MS1, MS2, MS3, MS4, and MS5 described above, and sets the common set values based on the information stored in the system memory 14. A snapshot MS31 of (common setting section) is created and stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (process PR6). The snapshot MS31 of the common setting value is taken when the state of the image forming apparatus 100 transitions from the sleep state to the normal state regardless of the presence or absence of an instruction to execute a print job (for example, when pressing of the sub-power button is accepted, when the scan job is executed). This is a snapshot of setting values that are set in common when an execution instruction is received, and when a print job execution instruction is received.

After saving all the snapshots in the auxiliary storage device 31, the system control unit 10 notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the snapshot creation operation. Upon receiving this notification, the power control unit 32 shifts the state of the image forming apparatus 100 from the normal state to the sleep state.

Note that when the state of the image forming apparatus 100 shifts from the sleep state to the normal state due to the reception of the print job execution instruction, the time required for the activation process of the image forming apparatus 100 is Varies depending on the printing conditions of the print job to be executed. In general, the time required for the startup process when executing a print job with the print condition of resolution is greater than the time required for the startup process when executing a print job with the print condition of paper type. longer than the time required for

The system control unit 10 notifies the execution instruction of the print job with the printing condition (resolution) that requires long startup processing before the execution instruction of the print job with the printing condition (paper type) that requires short startup processing. By doing so, a snapshot of printing conditions that take a long time to start up may be preferentially created. Specifically, snapshots MS1, MS2, and MS3 for each resolution may be created, and then snapshots MS4 and MS5 for each paper type may be created. As a result, when the storage area in the auxiliary storage device 31 is too small to save snapshots corresponding to all the printing conditions in the auxiliary storage device 31, the snapshots of the printing conditions that take a long time to start up are prioritized. It can be saved in the storage device 31 .

Further, the system control unit 10 may create a snapshot after receiving from the ASIC driver 42 notification of the completion of setting of the ASIC IP setting values and image processing setting values for all printing conditions (end interrupt). .

FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram of the snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 5, upon receiving the sleep request, system control unit 10 generates a virtual print job in which a plurality of different print conditions that may be set in the print job are set. virtual execution instructions (virtual activation triggers) of the print job with the printing conditions of 1 to the ASIC driver 42, various device drivers 43 and various applications 44 (underlying software), etc., one by one.

When the ASIC driver 42 receives a print job virtual execution instruction, the ASIC driver 42 sets values to be stored in the register 22 of the ASIC 21 and performs hardware training according to the printing conditions set in the print job. After completing the settings for the received print job, the ASIC driver 42 notifies the system control unit 10 of the completion of the settings.

Upon receiving the print job virtual execution instruction, the various device drivers 43 and the various applications 44 set the post-initialization setting values of the various parameters. After completing the settings for the received print job, the various device drivers 43 and the various applications 44 notify the system control unit 10 of the completion of the settings.

Upon receiving notification from each of the ASIC driver 42, various device drivers 43, and various applications 44, the system control unit 10 creates a snapshot based on the information stored in the system memory 14, and saves the created snapshot. Save in the auxiliary storage device 31 .

When the snapshot creation operation is completed, the system control unit 10 notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the snapshot creation operation. Upon receiving this notification, the power control unit 32 shifts the state of the image forming apparatus 100 from the normal state to the sleep state.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart of the snapshot creation operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 6, system control unit 10 determines whether or not a request to shift to the sleep state is received while image forming apparatus 100 is in the normal state (S1) (S3). The system control unit 10 repeats the process of step S3 until it determines that it has received a request to shift to the sleep state.

If it is determined in step S3 that a request to shift to the sleep state has been received (YES in S3), the system control unit 10 generates a print job with print conditions for which no snapshot has been created (S5), and prints the generated print job. A virtual job execution instruction is sent to the ASIC driver 42 or the like (S7). Subsequently, the system control unit 10 determines whether or not a setting completion notification has been received from the ASIC driver 42 or the like (S9). The system control unit 10 repeats the process of step S9 until it determines that it has received a setting completion notification from the ASIC driver 42 or the like.

In step S9, if it is determined that a setting completion notification has been received from the ASIC driver 42 or the like (YES in S9), the system control unit 10 creates a snapshot based on the information stored in the system memory 14 ( S11), the created snapshot is saved in the auxiliary storage device 31 (S13). Next, the system control unit 10 determines whether snapshots of all printing conditions have been saved in the auxiliary storage device 31 (S15).

If it is determined in step S15 that snapshots of all printing conditions have not been saved in the auxiliary storage device 31 (NO in S15), the system control section 10 proceeds to the process of step S5.

If it is determined in step S15 that snapshots of all printing conditions have been saved in the auxiliary storage device 31 (YES in S15), the system control unit 10 notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the snapshot forming operation ( S17). The system control unit 10 shifts to a sleep state (S19) and terminates the process.

(Snapshot expansion operation)

When the image forming apparatus 100 is in the sleep state, the power control unit 32 changes the state of the image forming apparatus 100 to the sleep state when receiving a notification from the network interface 38 indicating that a print job execution instruction has been received. to normal state. The power control unit 32 transmits to the system control unit 10 a print return request (print return instruction), which is a request to shift to the normal state and execute the print job.

When the system control unit 10 receives the print return request, the system control unit 10 performs start processing. This activation process includes the snapshot expansion operation described below. The system control unit 10 executes the print job after the activation process is completed.

7A and 7B are conceptual diagrams illustrating the snapshot expansion operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 7 , the snapshot expansion operation is an operation of selecting a necessary snapshot and writing it into system memory 14 , and is an operation executed by CPU 11 based on control program 41 .

When the system control unit 10 receives a print return request from the power control unit 32 (process PR11), the system control unit 10 writes the job analysis unit program stored in the ROM 13 into the system memory 14, The job analysis unit 51 is activated and initialized (process PR12).

Next, the system control unit 10 acquires a print job from the network interface 38 (process PR13). Subsequently, the system control unit 10 uses the job analysis unit 51 to analyze the print job. This analysis is performed based on information on at least one of the resolution and paper type included in the PDL data of the print job for which the execution instruction has been received. The system memory 14 selects a snapshot based on the printing conditions of the print job from the snapshots MS0, MS1, MS2, MS3, MS4, and MS5 stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 based on the analysis result. (process PR14).

Note that if the print job includes both print conditions such as resolution and paper type, the system control unit 10 may preferentially select the snapshot of the print condition that takes a long time to start up (resolution The snapshot of the printing conditions for the paper type may be created with priority over the snapshot of the printing conditions for the paper type). As a result, the time required for start-up processing can be further shortened.

In parallel with the selection of the snapshot in process PR14, the system control unit 10 develops the snapshot MS31 of the common set values in the system memory 14 (process PR15). As a result, the common setting value ST31 is stored in the system memory 14. FIG. The common set value snapshot MS31 is not related to the printing conditions. Therefore, by writing the snapshot MS31 of the common setting values to the system memory 14 in parallel with the selection of the snapshot in the process PR14, the time required for the activation process can be shortened.

Following process PR14, the system control unit 10 develops (decompresses and writes) the selected snapshot MS3 in the system memory 14 (process PR16). As a result, the system memory 14 stores IP setting value ST13 and image processing setting value ST3 of ASIC, which are setting values suitable for the received print job, and IP setting value ST21, setting value ST22, and setting value ST23. It is stored in memory 14 . The IP system of device drivers (such as JPEG Core) other than the job analysis unit 15, the interface such as USB, or the CPU core that is not used for the print job are restored at this timing.

The snapshot MS3 is developed in the system memory 14 in units of the data size of the number of bits held by the CPU 11×burst size (a size in which continuous writing is possible). The storage area of the register 12 of the CPU 11 is usually divided into software functional blocks (Engine _FW for the image processing area on the engine side, System __FW for the system area, etc.). However, since the process PR16 only restores the register value, it is possible to use not only a part of the memory area divided by the SW function in the register 12, but all the memory area.

When the system control unit 10 completes rendering the snapshots MS3 and MS31 (completion of the activation process), it notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the activation process, and executes the received print job.

FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of a snapshot expansion operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 8, system control unit 10 activates and initializes job analysis unit 51 upon receiving the print return request. Subsequently, the system control unit 10 uses the job analysis unit 51 to analyze the print job. Next, the system control unit 10 selects a snapshot suitable for printing conditions based on the analysis result, and develops the selected snapshot in the system memory 14. The setting of the processing setting values is completed, and the setting of the IP setting value ST21, the setting value ST22, and the setting value ST23 is completed.

Next, the system control unit 10 notifies the power control unit 32 of the completion of the snapshot expansion operation, executes the print job, and ends the process.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the snapshot development operation of image forming apparatus 100 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 9, while image forming apparatus 100 is in the sleep state (S51), system control unit 10 determines whether or not a print return request has been received (S53). The system control unit 10 repeats the process of step S53 until it determines that the print return request has been received.

If it is determined in step S53 that a print return request has been received (YES in S53), the system control section 10 activates and initializes the job analysis section 51 (S55), and analyzes the print job (S57). Next, the system control unit 10 determines whether the resolution of the printing conditions set in the print job is 600 dpi (default resolution) (S59).

If it is determined in step S59 that the resolution of the printing conditions set in the print job is not 600 dpi (NO in S59), the system control unit 10 saves a snapshot corresponding to the set resolution in the auxiliary storage device 31. selected from among the snapshots (S61), and proceeds to the process of step S69.

If it is determined in step S59 that the resolution of the printing conditions set in the print job is 300 dpi (YES in S59), the system control unit 10 determines that the paper type of the printing conditions set in the print job is normal. It is determined whether or not it is paper (the default paper type) (S63).

In step S63, if it is determined that the type of paper in the printing conditions set in the print job is not plain paper (NO in S63), the system control unit 10 assists the snapshot according to the set type of paper. A snapshot is selected from among those stored in the storage device 31 (S65), and the process proceeds to step S69.

If it is determined in step S63 that the type of paper in the printing conditions set in the print job is plain paper (YES in S63), the system control unit 10 sets the default printing conditions (resolution is 600 dpi and (printing condition that the type of paper is plain paper) is selected from the snapshots stored in the auxiliary storage device 31 (S67), and the process proceeds to step S69.

In step S69, the system control unit 10 develops the selected snapshot in the system memory 14 (S69), and restores the print function corresponding to the print conditions of the print job (S71). Next, the system control unit 10 executes the print job (S73) and terminates the process.

(Effect of Embodiment)

According to the present embodiment, when image forming apparatus 100 receives an instruction to execute a print job in the sleep state, image forming apparatus 100 selects a snapshot corresponding to the print conditions set in the print job, and prints an image. The selected snapshot is written to the system memory 14 after the forming device 100 transitions to the normal state. As a result, the time required to set various parameters according to the printing conditions of the print job can be shortened, and the time required to complete printing can be shortened.

(others)

(1) The timing at which the system control unit 10 performs the snapshot creation operation may be any timing when the image forming apparatus 100 is in the normal state, such as when the image forming apparatus 100 is in the standby state. There may be. When the snapshot creation operation is performed when the image forming apparatus 100 is in the standby state, the power control unit 32 performs system control to detect the standby state when the image forming apparatus 100 is in the standby state. unit 10, and the system control unit 10 may use this notification as a trigger to start the snapshot creation operation.

(2) Assume a situation in which the system control unit 10 accepts an instruction to execute a print job including information on each image of a plurality of pages to be printed, and rasterizes each image of each of the plurality of pages of this print job. do. In this situation, the system control unit 10 uses the job analysis unit 51 to calculate the load during rasterization processing based on the number of layers and the number of objects included in each image of a plurality of pages, and calculates the calculated load. A page with a lighter weight may be rasterized in the earlier order.

As the number of layers and objects included in the image increases, the input/output of the system memory 14 increases, the load on the memory bus increases, and the load of rasterization increases. If the load of the rasterization process is heavy, other processes performed by the system control unit 10 are delayed. As an example, a Print to BOX job (a job that prints print data and stores (transfers) it in the auxiliary storage device 31) includes a print job that prints the print data and a Box transfer that stores the print data in the auxiliary storage device 31. including jobs. When the number of layers and the number of objects included in the image of the first page of the Print to BOX job are large, the load on the memory bus increases and the Box transfer job is delayed.

Therefore, by delaying the order of the rasterization process of the page for which the load of the rasterization process is large, duplication with other processes performed by the system control unit 10 can be avoided, and the delay in the process can be reduced. can be suppressed.

The processing in the above-described embodiments may be performed by software or by using hardware circuits. It is also possible to provide a program for executing the processes in the above-described embodiments, or record the program on a recording medium such as a CD-ROM, flexible disk, hard disk, ROM, RAM, memory card, etc. and provide it to the user. You may decide to A program is executed by a computer such as a CPU. Alternatively, the program may be downloaded to the device via a communication line such as the Internet.

The above-described embodiments should be considered illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the scope of the claims rather than the above description, and is intended to include all modifications within the meaning and range of equivalents of the scope of the claims.

1 controller board 2 bus 10 system control unit (an example of creating means, storing means, selecting means, writing means, notification means, other writing means, first and second creating means, processing means, and calculating means)
11 CPU (Central Processing Unit)
12 CPU register 13 ROM (Read Only Memory)
14 System memory (an example of main memory)
15 job analysis unit 21 ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit)
22 ASIC register 23 local memory 24 external interface 31 auxiliary storage device (an example of auxiliary storage unit)
32 power control unit 33 printer engine 34 operation unit 35 display unit 36 facsimile unit 37 image reading unit 38 network interface 41 control program 42 ASIC driver 43 various device drivers 44 various applications 51 job analysis unit 100 image forming apparatus 200 network MS0, MS1, MS2, MS3, MS4, MS5, MS31 Snapshot PR1, PR2A, PR2B, PR2C, PR2D, PR3A, PR3B, PR3C, PR3D, PR4A, PR4B, PR4C, PR4D, PR4E, PR4F, PR5A, PR5B, PR5C, PR5D, PR5E , PR5F, PR6, PR11, PR12, PR13, PR14, PR15, PR16 Processing ST0, ST1, ST2, ST3, ST4, ST5 Image processing setting values ST10, ST11, ST12, ST13, ST14, ST15, ST21 IP setting values ST22, ST23 Setting value ST31 Common setting value

Claims (13)

An image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
a main memory that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied;
an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply;
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. creating means for creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job runtime information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a print job;
storage means for storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creating means in the auxiliary storage;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. selection means for selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
writing means for writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected by the selecting means into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state;
each of the plurality of job execution time information includes a set value set based on each of a plurality of different print conditions that may be set in the print job;
The creation means generates each virtual print job in which each of a plurality of print conditions that may be set in the print job, which are different from each other, is set, thereby snapping each of the plurality of job execution time information. An image forming device that creates shots. An image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
a main memory that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied;
an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply;
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. creating means for creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job runtime information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a print job;
storage means for storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creating means in the auxiliary storage;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. selection means for selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
writing means for writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected by the selecting means into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state;
an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) that controls image processing and printer engine operations when performing printing based on a print job;
an ASIC driver, which is software that controls the operation of the ASIC;
notification means for notifying the ASIC driver of a virtual execution instruction of a print job in which each of the plurality of print conditions is set when the state of the image forming apparatus is the normal state;
When the ASIC driver receives the notification from the notification means, the ASIC driver sets the parameter setting values when the printer engine executes the print job and the image processing setting values performed by the ASIC when the print job is executed. output to the main memory,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the creation unit creates a snapshot of each of the plurality of pieces of job execution time information based on the information output by the ASIC driver to the main storage unit. An image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
a main memory that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied;
an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply;
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. creating means for creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job runtime information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a print job;
storage means for storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creating means in the auxiliary storage;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. selection means for selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
writing means for writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected by the selecting means into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state;
When the state of the image forming apparatus is the sleep state, when a print job execution instruction is received, after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state, the common setting value is set. and another writing means for writing the snapshot to the main storage unit,
The common setting value is a setting value that is commonly set when the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state regardless of whether or not there is an instruction to execute the print job,
The image forming apparatus, wherein the selection of the snapshot of the job execution time information by the selection unit is performed in parallel with writing of the snapshot of the common setting value by the another writing unit. An image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
a main memory that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied;
an auxiliary storage unit that holds information without power supply;
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. creating means for creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job runtime information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in a print job;
storage means for storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created by the creating means in the auxiliary storage;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. selection means for selecting a snapshot of job execution time information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
writing means for writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected by the selecting means into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state;
the print job for which the execution instruction has been accepted includes information on each image of a plurality of pages to be printed;
a processing unit that rasterizes each image of the plurality of pages;
further comprising calculating means for calculating a load when rasterizing each image of the plurality of pages by the processing means based on the information of each image of the plurality of pages;
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing means performs rasterization processing in a later order for a page having a larger load calculated by the calculating means. The creation unit is configured to perform the above-described processing when the state of the image forming apparatus is a standby state, which is a state of waiting for a print job execution instruction in a state in which a print job can be executed among the normal states, or when the state of the image forming apparatus is a standby state. 5. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein a snapshot of each of said plurality of pieces of job execution time information is created when shifting from said normal state to said sleep state. 6. The creating means according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein said creating means includes first creating means for creating a snapshot of each of said plurality of job execution time information when a print job is executed at each of a plurality of mutually different resolutions. The image forming apparatus according to 1. The creation means includes second creation means for creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information when executing a print job for printing on each of a plurality of different types of paper, The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 6. The creation means is
a first creation means for creating a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information when executing a print job at each of a plurality of mutually different resolutions;
After the snapshots of each of the plurality of job execution time information are created by the first creating means when the print job is executed at each of a plurality of resolutions different from each other, each of a plurality of types of paper different from each other 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a second creation unit that creates a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information when executing a print job for printing to the Device. 9. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the print job for which the execution instruction is accepted is PDL (Page Description Language) data and includes information on at least one of resolution and paper type. . A control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
The image forming apparatus includes a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied, and an auxiliary storage unit that retains information without power supply,
The control program is
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. a creating step of creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job run-time information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in the print job;
a storage step of storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created in the creation step in the auxiliary storage unit;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. a selection step of selecting a snapshot of the job execution information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
causing a computer to execute a writing step of writing the snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selecting step into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state; is for
each of the plurality of job execution time information includes a set value set based on each of a plurality of different print conditions that may be set in the print job;
In the creation step, each of the plurality of job runtime information is snapped by generating each virtual print job in which each of a plurality of print conditions that may be set in the print job are set. A control program for an image forming apparatus that creates shots. A control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
The image forming apparatus includes a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied, and an auxiliary storage unit that retains information without power supply,
The control program is
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. a creating step of creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job run-time information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in the print job;
a storage step of storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created in the creation step in the auxiliary storage unit;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. a selection step of selecting a snapshot of the job execution information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
causing a computer to execute a writing step of writing the snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selecting step into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state; is for
The image forming apparatus includes an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) that controls image processing and the operation of a printer engine when performing printing based on a print job, and an ASIC driver that is software that controls the operation of the ASIC. ,
The control program further comprises a notification step of notifying the ASIC driver of a virtual execution instruction of a print job in which each of the plurality of print conditions is set when the state of the image forming apparatus is the normal state. is for executing
When the ASIC driver receives the notification in the notification step, the ASIC driver transmits the setting values of the parameters when the printer engine executes the print job and the setting values of the image processing performed by the ASIC at the time of the print job to the main unit. output to memory,
A control program for an image forming apparatus, wherein in the creation step, a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information is created based on the information output by the ASIC driver to the main storage unit. A control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
The image forming apparatus includes a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied, and an auxiliary storage unit that retains information without power supply,
The control program is
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. a creating step of creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job run-time information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in the print job;
a storage step of storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created in the creation step in the auxiliary storage unit;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. a selection step of selecting a snapshot of the job execution information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
a writing step of writing a snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selecting step into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state;
When the state of the image forming apparatus is the sleep state, when a print job execution instruction is received, after the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state, the common setting value is set. for causing a computer to execute another writing step of writing a snapshot to the main storage unit,
The common setting value is a setting value that is commonly set when the state of the image forming apparatus shifts from the sleep state to the normal state regardless of whether or not there is an instruction to execute the print job,
A control program for an image forming apparatus, wherein the selection of the snapshot of the job execution time information in the selection step is performed in parallel with the writing of the snapshot of the common setting value in the other writing step. A control program for an image forming apparatus having a hibernation function,
The image forming apparatus includes a main storage unit that stores information when power is supplied and does not retain information when power is not supplied, and an auxiliary storage unit that retains information without power supply,
The control program is
A plurality of pieces of job execution time information that are information stored in the main storage unit when a print job is executed when the image forming apparatus is in a normal state in which power is supplied to the main storage unit. a creating step of creating a snapshot of each of a plurality of job run-time information, each of which is information corresponding to each of a plurality of different printing conditions that may be set in the print job;
a storage step of storing a snapshot of each of the plurality of job execution time information created in the creation step in the auxiliary storage unit;
When the image forming apparatus is in a sleep state in which power is not supplied to the main storage unit, the plurality of job execution time information stored in the auxiliary storage unit when a print job execution instruction is received. a selection step of selecting a snapshot of the job execution information from among the snapshots based on the printing conditions set in the print job whose execution instruction has been received;
causing a computer to execute a writing step of writing the snapshot of the job execution time information selected in the selecting step into the main storage unit after the state of the image forming apparatus is shifted from the sleep state to the normal state; is for
the print job for which the execution instruction has been accepted includes information on each image of a plurality of pages to be printed;
The control program is
a processing step of rasterizing each image of the plurality of pages;
a calculating step of calculating a load when rasterizing each image of the plurality of pages in the processing step based on the information of each image of the plurality of pages. can be,
A control program for an image forming apparatus, wherein in the processing step, a page having a larger load calculated in the calculating step is rasterized in a later order.

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