JP2001202224A - System and method for managing image forming device and portable computer and central management device and image forming device and recording medium to be used for the same system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To economically and efficiently operate a work by a service man when any abnormality is generated in an image forming device at a customer destination. SOLUTION: When an operation to output information indicating a firmware version on a keyboard is performed, each portable computer 17 and 27 successively reads the device classification and device number (identification information), standard constitution code, standard constitution version number (information indicating a firmware version corresponding to the standard constitution), option constitution (option mechanism) code, and option constitution version number (information indicating the firmware version corresponding to the option constitution) of an image forming device (in which any abnormality is generated) among plural image forming devices such as copying machines 13 and 23 respectively connected to communication adapters 11 and 21, and stores the read information in a memory, and displays it at an LCD display, and outputs it by image formation on paper or a voice.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a central management unit having a computer and a plurality of image forming apparatuses (for example, copying machines) which are connected to a public communication network, a plurality of communication adapters, and a plurality of wired or wireless dedicated interfaces. And a portable computer (including not only a commercially available notebook personal computer but also a dedicated small computer or a device having a computer function) connected to at least one of the communication adapters. Image Forming Apparatus Management System and Image Forming Apparatus Management Method for Performing Image Forming Apparatus Management Business, Portable Computer, Image Forming Apparatus, Central Management Apparatus (Comprising a Computer), and Computers Constituting the System Computer that stores programs that implement the functions required for A recording medium that can be taken only.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As an image forming apparatus management system, a public communication line network is used, and a plurality of communication adapters and a plurality of wired or wireless dedicated interfaces are used. A plurality of image forming apparatuses (collectively a copier, a printer, a printing machine, a facsimile apparatus, etc.) are connectable to a central management apparatus (center system) installed in a service center.

By the way, a serviceman (CE) performs the following operations (1) to (4) on an image forming apparatus at a customer site used in such an image forming apparatus management system. ing.

(1) When an abnormality such as a failure or a malfunction occurs in an image forming apparatus of a customer, the customer who purchased the corresponding (abnormal) image forming apparatus in order to repair the abnormality. If the information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus is required, go to the installation location of the image forming apparatus, remove the predetermined lid of the image forming apparatus, and, for example, check that the firmware on the corresponding control board is Read the firmware version written in the mounted ROM, or switch the image forming apparatus to the maintenance mode by operating the keys on the operation unit of the corresponding image forming apparatus, and read and display the firmware version. Let them do it.

Here, the firmware of the image forming apparatus includes a device program corresponding to a standard configuration (a device program for controlling the main body of the image forming device) and a device program corresponding to an optional configuration (an automatic document feeder, a sorter). , A device program for controlling an optional device such as a finisher, or both.

(2) When an abnormality such as a failure or a malfunction occurs in an image forming apparatus at a customer site, in order to repair the abnormality, it is considered that the cause of the abnormality is in the firmware. In some cases, it is necessary to confirm whether or not there is firmware that has been upgraded (version changed).
An inquiry is made from the customer to the center system operator (center operator) by telephone.

(3) If there is an upgraded version of the firmware of the image forming apparatus, the center operator is instructed to send the upgraded version of the firmware. (4) The firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus is replaced (updated) and the operation of various functions is checked. When the operation is completed (completed), a report to that effect is sent to the center operator by telephone, and the corresponding image is displayed. The updated firmware version and standard configuration of the forming equipment,
Report on the optional configuration, etc.

[0008]

However, (1)
In the operation for obtaining the information indicating the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus as described in (1), a great deal of time and effort is required for the service person. In addition, the customer cannot use the corresponding image forming apparatus during the above-mentioned operation, and the business efficiency of the customer is significantly reduced.

Therefore, there is also a method of collecting information indicating the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus online from the center system. However, a serviceman requests the center operator to collect the above information from the customer, and the center operator requests the customer to collect the information. The notification of the collection result to the previous serviceman places a heavy burden on the center operator and the serviceman, and involves the generation of a communication fee.

[0010] The work for confirming whether or not the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus has been upgraded as shown in (2) also requires a heavy burden on the service person and the center operator, and also takes time. In addition, there is a possibility that a trouble occurs due to a transmission error between both the serviceman and the center operator, and a call charge is also generated. The operation for acquiring the upgraded version of the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus as shown in (3) also has the same disadvantage as described above.

Therefore, the corresponding image forming apparatus updates and writes a control program (upgraded firmware) for device operation transmitted from the center system (center station) to the program memory using the public communication line. Yes (replace the firmware)
A method has also been proposed (for example, Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 7-143271).
Reference).

However, according to such a method, it is difficult to confirm the convenience of using the device by the customer. In addition, the amount of communication on the communication public network and the dedicated interface increases, and a failure report or the like of another image forming apparatus is delayed. Further, when an abnormality occurs in the dedicated interface or the interface portion of the corresponding image forming apparatus, the firmware cannot be updated unless the abnormality is repaired. In some cases, during this time, the corresponding image forming apparatus cannot be used.

According to the replacement of the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus and the work after checking the operation of the various functions as shown in (4), the trouble of reporting a telephone call by a serviceman or a report error, or the report by a center operator. There is a possibility of causing trouble in inputting the update information, input error, and the like.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and enables a serviceman to perform work economically and efficiently when an abnormality occurs in an image forming apparatus at a customer's site. An object of the present invention is to reduce the labor required by a center operator.

[0015]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus management system and an image forming apparatus management method, and a portable computer, a central management apparatus (including a computer), and an image used for the system. Provided are a forming apparatus and a computer-readable recording medium on which a program for realizing functions necessary for the computer is recorded.

An image forming apparatus management system according to a first aspect of the present invention provides a central management apparatus having a computer, a plurality of communication adapters connected to the central management apparatus via a public communication network, and the plurality of communication adapters. And a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a wired or wireless dedicated interface. The central management apparatus is configured to communicate with the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public communication network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces. An image forming apparatus management system for centrally managing the image forming apparatus and performing an image forming apparatus management business is characterized as follows.

That is, means for connecting a portable computer to at least one of the plurality of communication adapters is provided, and the portable computer connected to the communication adapter by the means is connected to the communication adapter. Provided with firmware version information reading means for reading information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus, and firmware version output means for displaying the information read by the means, forming an image on paper, or outputting by voice. It is.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the first aspect, the firmware version output means of the portable computer outputs information indicating the firmware version to the portable computer. This is a means for outputting by displaying on a display unit.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the first aspect, the firmware version output means of the portable computer transmits the information indicating the firmware version via the communication adapter. The image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer outputs the image by forming an image on a sheet.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the first to third aspects, the portable computer connected to the communication adapter is connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information for inquiring the central management apparatus whether there is a new change in the firmware version for the image forming apparatus, and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus; When response information is received from the central management device for the inquiry information, response information output means for outputting the response information is provided, and the central management device receives the inquiry information from the portable computer, Firmware based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the inquiry information Checks for new changes, Version, response information including the results is provided with a means for transmitting to said portable computer.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the fourth aspect, the response information output means of the portable computer is provided with the response information on a display section of the portable computer. This is a means for outputting by displaying.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the fourth aspect, the response information output means of the portable computer transmits the response information to the portable computer via the communication adapter. The image forming apparatus connected to the die computer is used as an output unit by forming an image on a sheet.

An image forming apparatus management system according to a seventh aspect of the present invention is the image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the fourth to sixth aspects, wherein the portable computer connected to the communication adapter is connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to download request information for requesting the central management apparatus to download firmware whose version has been changed to the image forming apparatus, and transmitting the firmware to the central management apparatus; Means for storing the firmware in the memory when the firmware is received from the central management device for the download request information, and the central management device, when the download request information is received from the portable computer, Identification of the image forming apparatus added to the download request information Based on the distribution, in which the firmware was a version change is provided means for transmitting to said portable computer.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the seventh aspect, after the accumulation of the firmware in the memory is completed in the portable computer, the firmware is accumulated in the memory. There is provided means for reading the firmware and replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management system according to the seventh aspect of the present invention, wherein the portable computer is provided with replacement instruction operation means for instructing the portable computer to replace firmware, and to the memory. Means for reading the firmware stored in the memory and replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter when the replacement instruction operating means is operated after the completion of the storage of the firmware. Are provided.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the seventh aspect, a writing device capable of inserting a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card into the portable computer. And when the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed in a state where the writing device having the recording medium inserted therein is connected by the means for connecting the firmware, the firmware stored in the memory is written in the memory. Means for writing to the recording medium by an apparatus.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the seventh aspect, a writing device capable of inserting a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card into the portable computer. A writing device connecting means for connecting firmware, a write instruction operating means for instructing writing of firmware to the recording medium,
After the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed, when the writing instruction operating means is operated in a state in which the writing device in which the recording medium is inserted is connected by the writing device connecting means, Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management system according to the tenth or eleventh aspect, wherein the image forming apparatus comprises:
A reading device capable of inserting the recording medium into at least one image forming apparatus; a replacement instruction operating means for instructing replacement of firmware; and a recording medium in which the firmware is written is inserted into the reading device. When the replacement instruction operation means is operated in this state, the firmware is read from the recording medium by the reading device, and firmware replacement means for replacing the firmware is provided.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the twelfth aspect, identification information such as a model and a machine number of the image forming apparatus is also written in the recording medium. Prior to causing the firmware replacing means of the image forming apparatus to read the firmware from the recording medium by the reading apparatus, read the identification information and compare the read identification information with the identification information of the image forming apparatus. Only when the respective pieces of identification information match, the firmware is read from the recording medium, and the firmware is replaced.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the thirteenth aspect, the identification information read from the recording medium and the image forming apparatus are stored in the firmware replacement means of the image forming apparatus. If the identification information does not match, the reading device stops reading the firmware from the recording medium, displays information indicating that the identification information does not match, forms an image on a sheet, or outputs audio. Output means.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the eighth to ninth aspects, the communication adapter is connected to the portable computer. Operating means for instructing a notification of completion of checking of various functions by the replaced firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the control unit, and check completion information indicating completion of the check when the operating means is operated. Means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus, wherein the central management apparatus has a database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses; A database for collectively managing the history of device firmware replacement, and the portable computer When the received the check complete information, is provided with a means for updating the respective database based on the identification information of the added said image forming apparatus to the information.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus management method, wherein a plurality of communication adapters are connected to a central management apparatus having a computer via a public communication network, and the plurality of communication adapters are respectively wired or wireless. A plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a dedicated interface, and the central management unit centrally manages the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public communication network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces. A portable computer is connected to at least one of the plurality of communication adapters, and the portable computer is connected to the communication adapter by the portable computer. Determine if there is a new firmware version change for the image forming device. The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the inquiry information for inquiring of the central management apparatus and transmitted to the central management apparatus. When the central management apparatus receives the inquiry information, the image forming apparatus added to the information is transmitted. Check whether there is a new change in the firmware version based on the identification information, and send response information including the result to the portable computer. The portable computer receives and displays the response information, and displays it on paper. Of the image or output by sound.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management method according to the sixteenth aspect, wherein
The portable computer adds the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the download request information requesting the central management apparatus to download the updated firmware to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. When the central management device receives the download request information, the centralized management device transmits the firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the request information to the portable management device. The firmware is transmitted to a computer, and the portable computer receives the firmware and stores it in a memory. Then, the stored firmware is read and the firmware of the image forming apparatus is replaced.

According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus management method, wherein a plurality of communication adapters are connected to a central management apparatus having a computer via a public communication network, and the plurality of communication adapters are respectively wired or wireless. A plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a dedicated interface, and the central management unit centrally manages the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public communication network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces. A portable computer is connected to at least one of the plurality of communication adapters, and the portable computer is connected to the communication adapter by the portable computer. Determine if there is a new firmware version change for the image forming device. The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the inquiry information for inquiring of the central management apparatus and transmitted to the central management apparatus. When the central management apparatus receives the inquiry information, the image forming apparatus added to the information is transmitted. Checking whether there is a new change in the firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus, transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer, and receiving the response information, the portable computer It is determined whether or not there is a new change in the firmware version of the image forming apparatus. If there is a new change, a download requesting the central management apparatus to download the updated firmware to the image forming apparatus. The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the request information, and the request is sent to the central management apparatus. When the central management device receives the download request information, the central management device transmits the firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the request information to the portable computer. After the portable computer receives the firmware and stores it in the memory, the portable computer reads the stored firmware and replaces the firmware of the image forming apparatus.

According to a nineteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management method according to the seventeenth or eighteenth aspect, wherein the portable computer is replaced with an image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the check completion information indicating the completion of the check of the various functions by the received firmware, and transmitted to the central management apparatus. The central management apparatus transmits the check completion information from the portable computer. Received, a database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses and a history of firmware replacement of the image forming apparatuses based on the identification information of the image forming apparatuses added to the information. Updates the database for management.

A portable computer according to a twentieth aspect of the present invention is a communication system which is connected to a central management device having a computer via a public communication network, and is connected to an image forming apparatus via a wired or wireless dedicated interface. A portable computer connectable to an adapter, comprising: firmware version information reading means for reading information indicating a firmware version of an image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter; displaying information read by the means; Firmware version output means for outputting by image formation or voice.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the portable computer according to the twentieth aspect, it is determined whether or not there is a new change in the firmware version of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information for inquiring of the management apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus; and when response information to the inquiry information is received from the central management apparatus, the response information is transmitted. And a response information output means for outputting by display, image formation on paper, or voice.

According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, in the portable computer according to the twenty-first aspect, the central management device downloads firmware whose version has been changed to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the download request information to be transmitted to the central management apparatus, and when the firmware is received from the central management apparatus for the download request information,
Means for storing the firmware in a memory.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, in the portable computer according to the twenty-second aspect, after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, the firmware stored in the memory is read. Means for replacing firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter.

A portable computer according to a twenty-fourth aspect of the present invention is the portable computer according to the twenty-second aspect, further comprising a replacement instruction operating means for instructing a replacement of the firmware, and transferring the firmware received from the central management device to the memory. Means for reading the firmware stored in the memory and replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter when the replacement instruction operation means is operated after the storage is completed. It is a thing.

The portable computer according to the twenty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the portable computer according to the twenty-second aspect, wherein:
Means for connecting a writing device into which a recording medium such as a card or a memory card can be inserted, and receiving from the central management device in a state where the writing device with the recording medium inserted by the means is connected. Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device when the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed.

The portable computer according to the twenty-sixth aspect is the portable computer according to the twenty-second aspect, further comprising an IC
Writing device connecting means for connecting a writing device into which a recording medium such as a card or a memory card can be inserted; writing instruction operating means for instructing writing of firmware into the recording medium; and the central management device After the firmware received from the storage device is completely stored in the memory, the writing instruction operating means is operated in a state where the writing device with the recording medium inserted therein is connected by the writing device connection means. Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device.

The portable computer according to the twenty-seventh aspect of the present invention is the portable computer according to the twenty-third aspect or the twenty-fourth aspect, wherein the check of various functional operations by the replaced firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter is completed. Operating means for instructing notification of
Means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus to check completion information indicating completion of the check and transmitting the check completion information to the central management apparatus when the operation means is operated.

According to a twenty-eighth aspect of the present invention,
22. A central management device connected to the portable computer according to claim 21 via the communication adapter and a public communication line network, wherein when the inquiry information is received from the portable computer, the central management device is added to the inquiry information. A means is provided for checking whether there is a new change in the firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus, and transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer.

The central management device according to the twenty-ninth aspect of the present invention
23. A central management device connected to the portable computer according to claim 22 via the communication adapter and a public communication line network, wherein when the download request information is received from the portable computer, it is added to the download information. There is provided means for transmitting firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the portable computer.

The central management device according to the invention of claim 30 is:
28. A central management device connected to the portable computer according to claim 27 via the communication adapter and a public communication network, wherein a database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses, and A database for collectively managing the history of the replacement of the firmware of the apparatus, and when the check completion information is received from the portable computer, the databases are stored based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information. Updating means.

According to a thirty-first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
27. An image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter to the portable computer according to claim 25 or 26, wherein a reading device into which the recording medium can be inserted and a replacement instruction operating means for instructing replacement of firmware. When the replacement instruction operating means is operated in a state where the recording medium in which the firmware is written is inserted in the reading device, the firmware is read from the recording medium by the reading device, and the firmware is replaced. Firmware replacement means for performing the following.

An image forming apparatus according to claim 32 is
32. The image forming apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the firmware replacement unit causes the reading device to read identification information written on the recording medium before reading the firmware from the recording medium, and reads the identification information. Is compared with the identification information of the image forming apparatus, and only when the respective identification information matches, the firmware is read from the recording medium and the firmware is replaced.

An image forming apparatus according to claim 33 is
33. The image forming apparatus according to claim 32, wherein when the identification information read from the recording medium and the identification information of the image forming apparatus do not match, the firmware replacement unit sends the firmware to the reading apparatus. A means for stopping reading of the firmware, displaying information indicating that the identification information does not match, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting by voice is provided.

A recording medium according to a thirty-fourth aspect of the present invention is a communication adapter connected to a central management device equipped with a computer via a public communication network, and connected to an image forming apparatus via a wired or wireless dedicated interface. A firmware version information reading function for automatically reading information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter on a portable computer connectable to the communication adapter; displaying the information read by the function; A program for realizing an image forming function or a firmware version output function of outputting by voice is recorded.

A recording medium according to a thirty-fifth aspect of the present invention is the recording medium according to the thirty-fourth aspect, wherein the portable computer has a new change in firmware version for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. A function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information for inquiring of the central management apparatus about whether or not the information is to be transmitted to the central management apparatus, and receiving response information from the central management apparatus for the inquiry information. At this time, a program for realizing a response information output function of displaying the response information, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting by voice is also recorded.

A recording medium according to a thirty-sixth aspect stores the inquiry information from the portable computer to the computer of a central management unit connected to the portable computer of the twenty-first aspect via the communication adapter and a public communication network. When receiving the information, a function of checking whether there is a new change in the firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the inquiry information and transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer is provided. It records the program to be realized.

A recording medium according to a thirty-seventh aspect is the recording medium according to the thirty-fifth aspect, wherein the version of the image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer via the communication adapter is changed. A function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the download request information requesting the central management apparatus to download the firmware and transmitting the firmware to the central management apparatus; and transmitting the firmware from the central management apparatus to the download request information. A program for realizing the function of storing the firmware in the memory when received is also recorded.

According to a thirty-eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a recording medium according to the twenty-second aspect, wherein the portable computer is connected to a computer of a central management unit via the communication adapter and a public communication network, and the download request is transmitted from the portable computer. When the information is received, a program for realizing a function of transmitting firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the download information to the portable computer is recorded.

A recording medium according to a thirty-ninth aspect is the recording medium according to the thirty-seventh aspect, wherein the storage of the firmware received from the central management unit in the memory is completed in the portable computer. Also, a program for reading the firmware stored in the image forming apparatus and realizing a function of replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter is recorded.

The recording medium according to claim 40 is the recording medium according to claim 37, wherein after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed in the portable computer, the operation is performed on the operation unit. A program for reading a firmware stored in the memory when an operation for instructing firmware replacement is performed, and also recording a program for realizing a function of replacing firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. It is.

The recording medium according to claim 41 is the recording medium according to claim 37, wherein a firmware recording medium for recording firmware, such as an IC card or a memory card, is inserted into the portable computer. A function of connecting devices and a writing function of writing the firmware stored in the memory to the firmware recording medium by the writing device when the storage of the firmware received from the central management device is completed. The program to be realized is also recorded.

A recording medium according to the invention of claim 42 is the recording medium of claim 39 or 40, wherein the firmware is replaced by the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer via the communication adapter. A program for realizing a function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the check completion information indicating the completion of the check of various functional operations and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus is also recorded.

The recording medium according to the invention of claim 43 is characterized in that the portable computer of claim 27 is connected to a computer of a central management unit connected via the communication adapter and a public communication network, and the check is performed from the portable computer to the computer. Upon receiving the completion information, a database for collectively managing the firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses based on the identification information of the image forming apparatuses added to the information, and a history of replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatuses. A program for realizing a function of updating a database for collectively managing the programs is recorded.

[0060]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention;
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the center system.

This image forming apparatus management system includes a center system 1 (central management apparatus) installed in a service center S, electronic equipment installed in each of customer sites A and B, and those electronic equipment. Communication Adapter 1
1 and 21 and a public communication network 5 connecting the center system 1. Each customer A, B
The illustration of the exchange in FIG.

The center system 1 is, as shown in FIG.
Are constituted by a plurality of client computers (hereinafter simply referred to as "clients") 2a, 2b,..., A server 3, and a network 4 such as a LAN (local area network) for interconnecting the servers.

As shown in FIG. 1, the electronic equipment at the customer site A includes a communication adapter 11 connected to the center system 1 via a public communication network 5, a facsimile machine 12, a copying machine 13, a printer 14, and a printing apparatus. The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses including a printer 15 and a dedicated interface 16 (hereinafter, “interface” is referred to as “I / F”) for connecting each image forming apparatus to the communication adapter 11.

The communication adapter 11 has means for connecting a portable computer. FIG. 1 shows the portable computer 17 connected to the communication adapter 11 by that means. The portable computer 17 is electrically connected to the communication adapter 11 (for example, by using a connection cable).

The portable computer 17 has means for connecting a card writer (writing device) into which an IC card or a memory card as a recording medium can be inserted (meaning both mechanical connection and electrical connection). Provided. FIG.
Shows the card writer 18 connected to the portable computer 17 by that means, but in actuality, a serviceman who has visited the customer site A mechanically connects the card writer 18 to the portable computer 17 and The type computer 17 is electrically connected to the card writer 18.

The electronic equipment of the customer B is connected to the center system 1 via a public communication network 5 through a communication adapter 2.
1, a facsimile machine 22, a copying machine 23, a printer 2
Image forming apparatus including the facsimile apparatus 22
Dedicated I / F by wire connecting the communication adapter 21
25, and a wireless dedicated I / F 26 for connecting a plurality of image forming apparatuses including the copying machine 23 and the printer 24 to the communication adapter 21.

The dedicated I / F 26 comprises wireless devices 26a, 26b, 26c connected to the communication adapter 21, the copying machine 23, and the printer 24, respectively. Communication adapter 2
1 is provided with means for connecting a portable computer. FIG. 1 shows the portable computer 27 connected to the communication adapter 21 by that means. In practice, a serviceman who has arrived at the customer site B attaches his / her own portable computer 27 to the communication adapter 21 by a machine. The portable computer 27 is electrically connected to the communication adapter 21.

The portable computer 27 has means for connecting a card writer into which an IC card or a memory card can be inserted. In FIG. 1, a card writer 28 connected to a portable computer 27 by that means
In actuality, a serviceman who has visited customer B mechanically connects a card writer 28 to the portable computer 27, and the portable computer 27
8 is electrically connected.

In this example of the image forming apparatus management system, a means for connecting a portable computer to each of the communication adapters 11 and 21 installed at each of the customers A and B is provided. It is not necessary to connect a portable computer to each of the communication adapters 11 and 21, and a means for connecting the portable computer to only one of the communication adapters may be provided.

In this example of the image forming apparatus management system, a means for connecting a card writer is provided in each of the portable computers 17 and 27. However, a card writer can be built in. Alternatively, the portable computer 1
Each of the units 7 and 27 may be provided with a unit for connecting another writing device into which a recording medium other than an IC card and a memory card can be inserted, or may incorporate another writing device. Alternatively, it is not always necessary to provide a means for connecting the writing device or to incorporate the writing device.

FIG. 3 shows the clients 2a, 2b,.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a server 3. The client 2a includes a CPU 31, a real-time clock circuit 3,
2, ROM33, RAM34, communication control unit 35
a, 35b,..., external memory control unit 36, display control unit 37, keyboard I / F circuit unit 38, network I / F unit 39, hard disk device 4
0, a CRT display 41, a keyboard 42 and the like.

The client 2b is also the client 2
a, the network I / F unit 3
Illustration and description of each part other than 9 are omitted. Further, other clients in the center system 1 are also clients 2
Since the configuration is the same as that of FIG.

The CPU 31 is a central processing unit that controls the entire client 2a according to a control program in the ROM 33. Real time clock circuit 32
Generates time information, and the CPU 31 can read the time information to know the current time. The ROM 33 is a read-only memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 31.

The RAM 34 is a readable / writable memory used as a work memory or the like used when the CPU 31 performs data processing. Communication control unit 35a, 3
5b controls communication with external devices via the public communication line network 5, respectively. The external memory control unit 36 controls an interface with a hard disk device (hereinafter abbreviated as “HDD”) 40.

The display control unit 37 controls the interface with the CRT display 41 (may be another display such as an LCD display). Keyboard I /
The F circuit unit 38 controls the interface with the keyboard 42. The network I / F unit 39 performs interface control with other clients such as the client 2 b connected to the network 4 and the server 3.

The server 3 includes a CPU 51, a real-time clock circuit 52, a ROM 53, a RAM 54, an external memory control unit 55, a display control unit 56, a keyboard I / F circuit unit 57, a network I / F unit 58,
HDD 59, CRT display 60, keyboard 61
And so on. The CPU 51 includes a ROM 53
It is a central processing unit that controls the entire server 3 by a control program in the server.

The real-time clock circuit 52 generates time information, and the CPU 51 can read the data to know the current time. ROM5
A read-only memory 3 stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 51.
The RAM 54 is a readable / writable memory used as a work memory or the like used when the CPU 51 performs data processing.

The external memory control unit 55
9 is controlled. The HDD 59 includes, for example, a customer database (hereinafter, "database" is abbreviated as "DB") 59a, a device program management DB (DB for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses) 59b, and devices as shown in FIG. Change history D
B (DB for collectively managing the history of firmware replacement of each image forming apparatus) 59c.

Here, the customer DB 59a stores the name (customer name), address, responsible department signature (department name), customer representative name, and contact information (TEL number, FA) of the customer who purchased the image forming apparatus.
X), information (customer information) for specifying the customer, such as the department name, person in charge, and contact information of each of the business district and service district of the image forming apparatus.

As shown in FIG. 4, for example, the device program management DB 59b stores the model / device number of the image forming apparatus (other identification information may be used), the standard configuration code, the standard configuration version number (the firmware version corresponding to the standard configuration). , Device configuration management information such as an option configuration code, an option configuration (option mechanism) version number (information indicating a firmware version corresponding to the option configuration).

The device change history DB 59c includes, for example, as shown in FIG. 5, the model and device number of the image forming apparatus (other identification information may be used), the firmware update (replacement) date, and the changed (updated) standard. Stores device change history information such as a code indicating a configuration or an option configuration, a firmware change history corresponding to a changed standard configuration or an option configuration (change version number corresponding to a changed standard configuration or an option configuration).

The display control unit 56 controls the interface with the CRT display 60 (may be another display such as an LCD display). Keyboard I /
The F circuit unit 57 controls an interface with the keyboard 61. The network I / F unit 58 includes clients 2a, 2b,
Controls the interface with.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the portable computers 17 and 27. The portable computers 17 and 27 each include a CPU 71, a real-time clock circuit 72, a ROM 73, a RAM 74, a communication I / F.
75, external memory control unit 76, display control unit 77, keyboard I / F circuit unit 78, HDD 79, LC
It comprises a D display 80, a keyboard 81 and the like.

The CPU 71 is a central processing unit that controls the whole of the portable computers 17 and 27 according to the control program in the ROM 73. The real-time clock circuit 72 generates time information.
By reading it, 71 can know the current time. The ROM 73 is a read-only memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 71.

The RAM 74 is a readable / writable memory used as a work memory or the like used when the CPU 71 performs data processing. The communication I / F 75 controls communication with an external device. The external memory control unit 76
The interface control with the HDD 79 is performed.

The display control unit 77 controls the interface with the LCD display 80 (may be another display unit). The keyboard I / F circuit unit 78 controls an interface with the keyboard 81.

Each of the clients 2a, 2b,..., The server 3 and the portable computers 17, 27 of the center system 1 has a keyboard as an operation unit. Of course, it can be provided. In this case, the keyboard or mouse functions as each operation unit of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the communication adapter 11 of FIG. Since the communication adapter 21 has the same configuration, its illustration and description are omitted. Data from the public communication network 5 is first sent to the line switching circuit 101.
Is input to Here, if the communication from the public line communication network 5 is addressed to the facsimile machine (FAX) 12 connected to the communication adapter 11, the public line communication network 5
Side to the facsimile machine 12 and the center system 1
From the public line communication network 5 to the modem 10
Connect to 2.

Communication with the image forming apparatus such as the copying machine 13 is performed by a communication interface (SI / O) 103 using an RS-485 transceiver or the like. The communication with the portable computer 17 is performed by the communication interface 104. These controls and processes are based on R
This is performed mainly by the CPU 105 according to the control program in the OM 106.

The buffer memory (RAM) 107 is also used for temporarily storing various data. A backup battery (battery) 108 is connected to the buffer memory 107. The switch 109 is
This is for selectively setting various modes. Each of the communication adapters 11 and 21 constantly and periodically performs a polling operation on each of the image forming apparatuses and the portable computers 17 and 27 connected thereto, in the order of the device addresses given to them.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of copying machines 13 and 23 of FIG. The control of the copying machines 13 and 23 is performed based on a control program and data stored in the ROM 112 and the nonvolatile RAM 113 with the CPU 111 as a center. The RAM 11 stores the intermediate results of the processing, various set values, the state of the apparatus, and the like.
Use 4. The control program in the non-volatile RAM 113 is firmware.

The A / D converter 115 includes a supply voltage to the exposure lamp, a light emission voltage and light reception voltage of the P sensor, an output of the potential sensor, an output of the ADS sensor, an output of the lamp light amount sensor for detecting the light amount of the exposure lamp, It is used to input an output of a drum current sensor for detecting a current flowing through the body drum, a thermistor voltage in the fixing unit, and the like. The optical system control unit 116 controls the scanner.

The high-voltage power supply unit 117 supplies a high voltage to be applied to each of the charging charger, the separation charger, the transfer charger, and the pre-transfer charger (PTC), and a developing bias voltage to be applied to the developing roller in the developing unit. The motor control unit 118 controls a main motor that drives the photosensitive drum, the paper feed units, the rollers of the transport unit, and the like.

The heater control unit 119 controls energization to a fixing heater for heating the fixing roller of the fixing unit, and maintains the surface temperature of the fixing roller within a predetermined range. The sensor control unit 120 is used to change the light receiving gain of the lamp light amount sensor, the light receiving gain of the ADS sensor, the light receiving gain of the P sensor, the light emitting voltage of the LED of the P sensor, and the like.

The card reader control unit 121 includes an IC
Card reader that can insert a card or memory card
(Reading device) 122 to read data written in an IC card or a memory card inserted into the card reader 122. The interface control unit 123 is a unit that performs communication with the communication adapters 11 and 21.

The operation section 124 has a display section for displaying various information, and an input section (operation keys) for inputting various information. In the examples of the copying machines 13 and 23, the card readers 122 are respectively built in. However, means for connecting the card readers may be provided, and the card readers may be externally connected by the means.

Further, another reading device capable of inserting a recording medium (firmware recording medium) other than the IC card and the memory card is incorporated therein, and means for connecting the reading device is provided, and the reading device is connected by the means. You can also. The control system of the copying machines 13 and 23 has been described above. However, other image forming apparatuses such as the printers 14 and 24 have the same control system, so that illustration and description thereof are omitted.

Here, in this example of the image forming apparatus management system, each of the image forming apparatuses such as the copiers 13 and 23 and the printers 14 and 24 (or any one of them) may have various functions according to the present invention. Means) is provided from the beginning by storing the corresponding control program in the ROM in advance.

Each of the portable computers 17, 27 and the center system 1 may be provided with various programs according to the present invention in advance by storing corresponding programs in a ROM, or
A program recorded on a recording medium (disk such as a floppy disk or an optical disk) according to the present invention is read by a disk device such as a built-in or external floppy disk device or an optical disk device, and is read from a built-in HDD (hard disk device). It may function by installing it on a hard disk or a non-volatile RAM or RAM.

Hereinafter, the processing operation according to the present invention in the image forming apparatus management system will be specifically described with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, the processing operation of the center system 1 and the processing operation of the image forming apparatus such as the portable computer 17 and the copying machine 13 at the customer site A will be described. The processing operation of the image forming apparatus such as the copying machine 23 is the same as the processing operation of the image forming apparatus such as the portable computer 17 and the copying machine 13, and the description thereof will be omitted.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the outline of the processing operation according to the present invention in this image forming apparatus management system. FIGS. 10 to 24 are flowcharts showing different embodiments (corresponding to each claim) of the processing according to the present invention. In each of these drawings, steps are abbreviated as “S”.

[First Embodiment: FIG. 10] FIG. 10 shows a first embodiment (corresponding to claims 1 to 3, 20, and 34).
12 is a flowchart showing a firmware version information output process by the CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 in the case of FIG. For example, when an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus installed at the customer site A, a service person goes to the customer site A to repair the abnormality.

The serviceman who has arrived at the customer site A connects the portable computer 17 to the communication adapter 11 as shown in FIG.
Connect to Next, on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17, among the plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the communication adapter 11 via the dedicated I / F 16, the corresponding (abnormal) image forming apparatus (a plurality of images) An operation (version output operation) for outputting information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus may be performed.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware version information output process shown in FIG. 10 is periodically started by calling a main routine (not shown). In step 1, it is checked whether or not the version output operation has been performed. Of the plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the communication adapter 1, information indicating the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus in step 2
1 and read via the dedicated I / F 16.

In this example, it is assumed that information other than the information indicating the firmware version is simultaneously read.
That is, the model / device number of the corresponding image forming apparatus (other identification information may be used), a standard configuration code, a standard configuration version number (information indicating a firmware version corresponding to the standard configuration), an optional configuration (optional mechanism) code, The option configuration version number (information indicating the firmware version corresponding to the option configuration) is sequentially read.

At this time, a read command for reading the above information (hereinafter collectively referred to as “firmware version information”) is transmitted from the portable computer 17 to the corresponding image forming apparatus. This is as shown in (1) of FIG. Also,
The data format of firmware version information, which is response information from the image forming apparatus corresponding to the read command, is as shown in (2) of FIG. Further, the firmware version information is added to firmware in the image forming apparatus.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware version information read by the above read command is stored in the memory (RAM 74 or H
DD79), and in step 4, the stored firmware version information is output by displaying it on the LCD display 80.

If the portable computer 17 has an audio output function, the firmware version information stored in the memory can be output by audio. The firmware version information stored in the memory is transferred to the portable computer 1 via the communication adapter 11.
The image can be output by forming an image on a sheet by an image forming apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus 7.

In the data format shown in FIG. 25, the communication control code and data security are omitted. The same applies to the data formats of FIGS. 26 to 28 described later.

As described above, the serviceman connects the portable computer 17 to the communication adapter 11 when necessary, and reads the firmware version information of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter 11 on the keyboard 81 ( The portable computer 17 reads the firmware version information of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter 11 and performs the read information on the LCD display 8.
Since the output is made by displaying it at 0, the following effects can be obtained.

That is, the user goes to the installation site of the image forming apparatus (in which an abnormality has occurred), opens a predetermined lid of the image forming apparatus, and, for example, writes the firmware on a ROM mounted with firmware on a control board. It is possible to reduce the trouble of reading the firmware version or switching the image forming apparatus to the maintenance mode by operating a key on the operation unit of the corresponding image forming apparatus, and reading and displaying the version of the firmware. .

Therefore, the labor required by the service person can be remarkably reduced, and the customer who has purchased the image forming apparatus can avoid the unusable state of the image forming apparatus as much as possible, and hardly causes a decrease in work efficiency. . Further, when collecting firmware version information, since only a dedicated interface is used as a communication interface, no burden is imposed on the center operator and no communication fee is charged.

If the portable computer 17 outputs the read firmware version information by voice, the serviceman can check the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus regardless of the state of the display screen of the LCD display 80. We can know information.

Alternatively, if the portable computer 17 outputs the read firmware version information by causing the image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer 17 to form an image on a sheet via the communication adapter 11, the firmware version information is output. Even if the service person subsequently turns off the power of the portable computer 17, he or she can view the firmware version information of the corresponding image forming apparatus any time.

[Second Embodiment: FIGS. 11 and 12] FIG.
1 is the second embodiment (Claims 4 to 6, 16, 21, 22)
8, 35, and 36), the flowchart showing the version change presence / absence inquiry processing by the CPU 71 of the portable computer 17; FIG. 12 shows C of the client (2a, 2b,...) Of the center system 1;
It is a flowchart which shows the inquiry response process by PU31.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 performs the firmware version information output processing shown in FIG. 10, and outputs the firmware version information (model / machine number, standard configuration code, standard configuration version number, option configuration code) of the corresponding image forming apparatus. , Option configuration version number) is displayed on the LCD display 80, the serviceman performs the following operation on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17.

That is, the LC of the portable computer 17
The firmware version information of the corresponding image forming apparatus displayed on the D display 80 is selected by an operation on the keyboard 81 (selection operation is performed). In this example, among the plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the communication adapter 11, information on the corresponding image forming apparatus is displayed. ) Or multiple pieces of information can be selected.

Subsequently, an operation (inquiry request) for inquiring of the center system 1 on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17 as to whether or not there is a new change in the firmware version for the previously selected corresponding image forming apparatus. Operation). The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 11 by calling the main routine.

First, at step 11, it is checked whether or not an inquiry request operation has been performed. If the inquiry request operation has been performed, at step 12, the inquiry information (version change presence / absence inquiry information) for making the inquiry is transmitted to the communication adapter. Information including 11 model / device numbers, the address of the portable computer 17 (other identification information may be used), and the model / device number (other identification information may be used) of the previously selected corresponding image forming apparatus. In addition, the data is transmitted to the center system 1 via the communication adapter 11 and the public communication network 5 in a data format as shown in FIG.

Next, in step 13, the reception of inquiry response information described later from the center system 1 is waited. When the inquiry response information (which matches the address of the portable computer 17) is received, in step 14, the inquiry is received. Response information is stored in a memory (RAM 74 or HDD
79), and in step 15, the stored inquiry response information is output by displaying it on the LCD display 80.

If the portable computer 17 has a voice output function, the inquiry response information stored in the memory can be output by voice. Also,
Communication response information stored in the memory
The image data can also be output by forming an image on a sheet by an image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer 17 via the first computer 1.

On the other hand, the CPU 31 of the client (any of 2a, 2b,...) Of the center system 1 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 12 by calling the main routine.
It is checked whether or not version change inquiry information has been received from step 7. If version change inquiry information has been received, the following processing is performed in step 202.

That is, using the model / device number of the corresponding image forming apparatus added to the received version change presence / absence inquiry information as a keyword (based on the model / device number), the device program management DB 59b of FIG. (See FIG. 3) to check whether there is a new change in the firmware version for the image forming apparatus.

When the check processing is completed,
In step 203, information indicating the result is stored in the communication adapter 1
1 model / machine number, address of portable computer 17,
Information including the model / machine number, the standard configuration code, the standard configuration version number, the option configuration code, and the option configuration version number of the corresponding image forming apparatus selected earlier is added, and the inquiry response information (2) in FIG. Is transmitted to the portable computer 17 via the public communication network 5 and the communication adapter 11 in the data format shown in FIG.

As described above, the serviceman determines on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17 whether or not there is a new change of the firmware version for the corresponding image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter 11 by the center system 1. Operation for inquiring (simple operation)
Is performed, the portable computer 17 adds information including the model and the machine number of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information (version change inquiry information) for making the inquiry, and transmits the information to the center system 1. When response information (inquiry response information) is received from the center system 1 for the information, the response information is displayed on the LCD display 80, so that the following effects can be obtained.

That is, even if the service person does not make an inquiry from the customer A to the center operator by telephone, it is determined whether there is a new change in the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus, that is, whether the corresponding image forming apparatus has been changed. It is possible to know whether or not there is an upgraded version of the firmware of the device. Therefore,
The burden on the serviceman and the center operator and the occurrence of various errors can be eliminated, and the communication fee can be reduced.

If the portable computer 17 outputs the response information by voice, the serviceman can change the firmware version for the corresponding image forming apparatus regardless of the state of the display screen of the LCD display 80. Can be known.

Alternatively, if the portable computer 17 outputs the response information by causing the image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer 17 to form an image on a sheet via the communication adapter 11, the service person Even if the portable computer 17 is powered off thereafter, it can be confirmed at any time when it is desired to confirm whether or not the firmware version of the corresponding image forming apparatus has been changed.

[Third Embodiment: FIGS. 13 and 14] FIG.
3 is a third embodiment (claims 7, 22, 29, 37, 3).
8)) of the portable computer 17 in the case of
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing download request processing by U71, and FIG.
31 is a flowchart showing a download request response process performed by a user 31.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 performs the respective processes shown in FIGS. 10 and 11, and receives the inquiry response information received from the center system 1 (provided that there is a new change in the firmware version for the corresponding image forming apparatus). (Including information indicating that there is a version change) is displayed on the LCD display 80, and the serviceman operates the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17.
Above, an operation (download request operation) for requesting the center system 1 to download the firmware whose version has been changed (upgraded) to the corresponding selected image forming apparatus.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The download request process shown in FIG. 13 is periodically started by calling the main routine, and it is determined in step 21 whether or not the download request operation has been performed. If the download request operation has been performed, the download is performed in step 22. In the requested download request information (download request data), the model and device number of the communication adapter 11, the address of the portable computer 17 (other identification information may be used), and the model and device of the corresponding image forming apparatus previously selected. The information including a number (or other identification information) may be added and transmitted to the center system 1 via the communication adapter 11 and the public communication network 5 in a data format as shown in FIG.

Next, in step 23, the system waits for reception of download request response information described later from the center system 1, and
Upon receiving the download request response information (but matching the address of the portable computer 17), the download request response information is stored in a memory (R
In step 25, a message indicating the end of reception is displayed on the LCD display 80 in step S25.

On the other hand, the CPU 31 of the client of the center system 1 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 14 by calling the main routine, and first determines in step 211 whether download request response information has been received from the portable computer 17. Is checked, and if the download request information is received, the following processing is performed in step 212.

That is, the device program management DB 59 shown in FIG. 2 is used as a keyword with the model and device number of the corresponding image forming apparatus added to the received download request information.
b (see FIG. 4), the firmware of the image forming apparatus whose version has been changed (in this example, the current (pre-change) version number of the standard configuration, the changed version number, the control firmware, and the current version of the optional configuration) Number, changed version number, control firmware, etc.).

When the process is completed, the firmware read in step 213 contains the model of the communication adapter 11 and
The device number, the address of the portable computer 17, and the model and device number of the corresponding image forming apparatus selected earlier are added, and the data is sent to the public communication line in a data format as shown in FIG. 27 (2) as download request response information. The data is transmitted to the portable computer 17 via the network 5 and the communication adapter 11.

Here, the control firmware portion shown in (2) of FIG. 27 may be either the entire firmware of the relevant image forming apparatus whose version has been changed or only the actual changed portion. The character format of the control firmware part is HEX (16
Hex) or binary format.

As described above, the service person requests the center system 1 to download the updated firmware to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter 11 on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17. The portable computer 17 adds the information including the model and the machine number of the image forming apparatus to the request information (download request information) requesting the download, and transmits the request information to the center system 1, When the download request response information including the firmware whose version has been changed is received from the center system 1 with respect to the request information, the download request response information is stored in the memory.
Without instructing the center operator over the phone from
The firmware whose version of the corresponding image forming apparatus has been changed can be acquired.

[Fourth Embodiment: FIG. 15] FIG. 15 shows a fourth embodiment (claims 8, 9, 23, 24, 39, 40).
Of the portable computer 17 in the case of
7 is a flowchart illustrating a firmware replacement process performed by the firmware 71.

The service person operates the portable computer 17.
An operation (download request operation) for requesting the center system 1 to download the firmware whose version has been changed to the corresponding image forming apparatus selected earlier is performed on the keyboard 81 of the, and the download shown in FIG. When the request processing is completed, that is, when the download request response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is stored in the memory, the keyboard 8
An operation for instructing the replacement of firmware (firmware replacement operation) is performed on 1.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware replacement process shown in FIG. 15 is started periodically by calling the main routine. First, it is determined whether or not the firmware replacement operation has been performed in step 31. If the firmware replacement operation has been performed, the firmware is downloaded to the memory in step 32. It is determined whether the request response information is stored.

If the download request response information has been stored in the memory (if the download request response information has been stored in the memory by the download request processing shown in FIG. 13), the process proceeds to step 33. The firmware in the download request response information stored in the storage device is read, and in step 34, the firmware (including its version information) of the corresponding image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter 11 is replaced. For example, when the corresponding image forming apparatus is the copying machine 13, the firmware in the nonvolatile RAM 113 is replaced with the firmware whose version has been changed.

As described above, the portable computer 17
When the firmware replacement operation is performed on the keyboard 81 after the storage of the download request response information in the memory is completed, the firmware in the download request response information stored in the memory is read, and the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus is read. Since the replacement is performed, the trouble of replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus by the service person can be reduced.

[Fifth Embodiment: FIG. 16] FIG. 16 shows a firmware replacement process by the CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 in the fifth embodiment (corresponding to claims 8, 17, 23, and 39). It is a flowchart shown.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware replacement process shown in FIG. 16 (instead of the process shown in FIG. 15) is started periodically by calling the main routine. First, in step 41, it is determined whether or not the download request response information is stored in the memory. If the download request response information has been stored in the memory by the download request processing shown in FIG. 13 has been completed, the firmware in the download request response information stored in the memory is read in step 42, and In step 43, the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter 11 is replaced.

Thus, the portable computer 17
After the storage of the download request response information in the memory is completed, the firmware in the download request response information stored in the memory is automatically read and the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus is replaced. One operation (firmware replacement operation in this example) becomes unnecessary, and the trouble of replacing the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus by the service person can be further reduced.

[Sixth Embodiment: FIG. 17] FIG. 17 shows a firmware writing process by the CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 in the sixth embodiment (corresponding to claims 10, 11, 25 and 26). It is a flowchart which shows.

The service person operates the portable computer 17.
An operation (download request operation) for requesting the center system 1 to download the firmware whose version has been changed to the previously selected corresponding image forming apparatus (download request operation) is performed on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17. When the card writer 18 (with an IC card or memory card inserted) is connected and the download request processing shown in FIG. 13 is completed, that is, download request response information (including firmware whose version has been changed) When the storage in the memory is completed, an operation (firmware writing operation) for instructing writing of the firmware is performed on the keyboard 81.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware writing process shown in FIG. 17 (instead of the processes shown in FIGS. 15 and 16) is started periodically by calling the main routine, and it is first determined in step 51 whether the firmware writing operation has been performed. When the firmware writing operation is performed, it is determined in step 52 whether the card writer 18 (however, an IC card or a memory card is inserted) is connected to the portable computer 17.

When the card writer 18 is connected to the portable computer 17, it is determined in step 53 whether or not the download request response information is stored in the memory, and the download request response information is stored in the memory. If it is determined that the storage of the download request response information in the memory by the download request processing shown in FIG. 13 has been completed, the download request response information stored in the memory is read in step 54 and read in step 55. The download request response information is written into an IC card or a memory card by the card writer 18.

Thus, the portable computer 17
After the storage of the download request response information in the memory is completed, when the firmware writing operation is performed in a state where the IC card or the card writer 18 in which the memory card is inserted is connected, the download stored in the memory is performed. Since the request / response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is written into the IC card or the memory card by the card writer 18, the memory in the portable computer is released, and the memory can be used effectively.

[Seventh Embodiment: FIG. 18] FIG. 18 shows a firmware writing process by the CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 in the case of the seventh embodiment (corresponding to claims 10, 25, 41). It is a flowchart.

The service person operates the portable computer 17.
An operation (download request operation) for requesting the center system 1 to download the firmware whose version has been changed to the previously selected corresponding image forming apparatus (download request operation) is performed on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17. A card writer 18 (provided that an IC card or a memory card is inserted) is connected.

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The firmware writing process shown in FIG. 18 (instead of the processes shown in FIGS. 15 to 17) is started periodically by calling the main routine, and the card writer 18 (however, an IC card or It is determined whether or not the memory card (with a memory card inserted) is connected. If the card writer 18 is connected, it is determined in step 62 whether or not the download request response information is stored in the memory.

When the download request response information is stored in the memory (when the storage of the download request response information in the memory by the download request processing shown in FIG. 13 is completed), in step 63, the memory is downloaded. The download request response information stored in the IC card or the memory card is written by the card writer 18 in step 64.

Thus, the portable computer 17
When the storage of the download request response information in the memory is completed in a state where the card writer 18 with the IC card or the memory card inserted therein is connected, the download request response information stored in the memory (there is a version change). (Including firmware) is written on the IC card or the memory card by the card writer 18, so that the memory in the portable computer 17 is released, and the memory can be used effectively. Further, since one operation on the keyboard 81 (firmware writing operation in this example) is not required, the IC card or the IC card of the download request response information including the firmware whose version of the corresponding image forming apparatus has been changed by the serviceman is required. It is possible to reduce the trouble when writing to the memory card.

[Eighth Embodiment: FIG. 19] FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a firmware replacement process by the CPU of the image forming apparatus according to the eighth embodiment (corresponding to claims 12 and 31). is there. Here, for convenience of explanation, the corresponding image forming apparatus (in which an abnormality has occurred) is assumed to be the copying machine 13 and its CPU 111 is to perform the processing shown in FIG. Similar processing can be performed.

The service person inserts the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or FIG.
After being inserted into the operation unit 22, an operation for instructing a firmware replacement (firmware replacement operation) is performed on the operation unit 124.

The CPU 111 of the copying machine 13 periodically starts the firmware replacement process shown in FIG. 19 by calling the main routine.
4 to determine whether a firmware replacement operation has been performed, and when the firmware replacement operation has been performed,
In step 72, it is determined whether an IC card or a memory card in which the download request response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is written to the card reader 122 is inserted.

If the IC card or the memory card is inserted in the card reader 122, the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122 in step 73, and step 74 is executed. Replace the firmware with. That is, the nonvolatile RAM 1
13 is replaced with firmware whose version has been changed.

As described above, the CPU 111 of the copying machine 13
However, when the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or 18 is inserted into the card reader 122 of the copying machine 13, the firmware replacement operation is performed on the operation unit 124. In this case, the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122 and the firmware is replaced (including the replacement of the version information), so that the following effects can be obtained. it can.

That is, the copying machine 13 by the service person
The time required for replacing the firmware can be reduced. Further, the serviceman only needs to insert the IC card or the memory card into the card reader 122 and perform the firmware replacement operation while observing the usage status of the user of the copying machine 13, thereby minimizing the hindrance to user operations. If any trouble occurs in the copying machine 13 due to the replacement of the firmware, a quick response can be taken.

[Ninth Embodiment: FIG. 20] FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a firmware replacement process by the CPU of the image forming apparatus in the ninth embodiment (corresponding to claims 13 and 32). is there. Here also, for convenience of explanation, the corresponding image forming apparatus is assumed to be a copying machine 13 and its CPU 111 is to perform the processing shown in FIG. 20, but the CPU of another image forming apparatus is also to perform the same processing. be able to.

As described above, the service person inserts the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or FIG. After inserting the firmware into the firmware 122, a firmware replacement operation is performed on the operation unit 124.

The CPU 111 of the copying machine 13 periodically starts the firmware replacement process shown in FIG. 20 (instead of the process shown in FIG. 19) by calling the main routine. 72
The same determination as that described above is performed.
If it is determined that the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information is written in the memory 22 is inserted, the card reader 122 in step 83
The model and device number of the image forming apparatus in the download request response information are read from the C card or the memory card.

Next, in step 84, the read model / machine number is compared with the model / machine number of the own machine (copier 13) to determine whether or not each model / machine number matches. Only when they match, the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122 in step 85, and the firmware is replaced in step 86.

As described above, the CPU 111 of the copying machine 13
However, when the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or 18 is inserted into the card reader 122 of the copying machine 13, the firmware replacement operation is performed on the operation unit 124. Before the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122, the model / device number of the image forming apparatus in the download request response information is read.・ Compare the machine number with the model and machine number of your own machine, and only when the model and machine number match,
Since the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122 and the firmware is replaced, the following effects can be obtained in addition to the effects similar to the above-described eighth embodiment. Can also.

That is, the model and the machine number written on the IC card or the memory card are compared with the model and the machine number of the copying machine 13 having the card reader 122 in which the IC card or the memory card is inserted. This makes it possible to prevent a mistake such as erroneous replacement of firmware of another image forming apparatus and occurrence of a failure (abnormality).

[Tenth Embodiment: FIG. 21] FIG.
33 is a flowchart showing a firmware replacement process by a CPU of a corresponding image forming apparatus in the case of the tenth embodiment (corresponding to claims 14 and 33). Here also, for convenience of explanation, the corresponding image forming apparatus is a copying machine 13,
It is assumed that the CPU 111 performs the processing shown in FIG. 21, but the same processing can be performed by the CPUs of other image forming apparatuses.

In the same manner as described above, the service person inserts the IC card or the memory card into which the download request response information (including the firmware whose version has been changed) is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or FIG. After inserting the firmware into the firmware 122, a firmware replacement operation is performed on the operation unit 124.

The CPU 111 of the copying machine 13 periodically calls the main routine to replace the firmware shown in FIG. 21 (instead of the processing shown in FIGS. 19 and 20).
Are started, and steps 81 to 96 in FIG.
The same judgment and processing as in steps 86 to 86 are performed, but step 9
In step 4, the model / model number of the image forming apparatus read from the IC card or the memory card and the model of its own machine (copier 13)
If it is determined that the machine numbers do not match, the following processing is also performed.

That is, in step 97, the card reader 1
22 causes the firmware reading from the IC card or the memory card to be stopped, and in step 98, the warning information indicating that the models and machine numbers do not match is displayed on the operation unit 124 (L
It is output by displaying it on a display unit such as a CD. If the copying machine 13 has an audio output function, the warning information can be output by voice. Further, the warning information can be output by forming an image on a sheet.

As described above, the CPU 111 of the copying machine 13
However, when the IC card or the memory card in which the download request response information is written by the processing of FIG. 17 or 18 is inserted into the card reader 122 of the copying machine 13, the firmware replacement operation is performed on the operation unit 124. Before the firmware in the download request response information is read from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122, the model / device number of the image forming apparatus in the download request response information is read. -Compare the model number with the model / model number of the own device, and when the model / model number matches, read the firmware in the download request response information from the IC card or the memory card by the card reader 122, and Of each model and machine number If not, the card reader 122 stops reading the firmware from the IC card or the memory card, and outputs warning information indicating that the models and machine numbers do not match on the operation unit 124 by outputting the warning information. In addition to the effects similar to those of the ninth embodiment, the following effects can be obtained.

That is, the serviceman is in the situation (copier 1
(An IC card or a memory card into which firmware for another image forming apparatus has been written by mistake) is easily inserted into the third card reader 122), and quick and efficient maintenance work can be performed. .

If the copying machine 13 outputs the warning information by voice, the service person can know the situation irrespective of the display state of the display unit of the operation unit 124. Alternatively, if the copying machine 13 outputs the warning information by forming an image on a sheet, the service person can check the status at any time even after the power of the copying machine 13 is turned off.

[Eleventh Embodiment: FIG. 22] FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows the firmware replacement process by CPU71 of the portable computer 17 in 11th Embodiment (corresponding to Claim 18).

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17 performs the firmware version information output processing shown in FIG. 10, and the firmware version information (model / machine number, standard configuration code, standard configuration version number, option configuration code) of the corresponding image forming apparatus. , Option configuration version number) is displayed on the LCD display 80, the service person performs the same operation on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17 as described above.

That is, the LC of the portable computer 17
The firmware version information of the corresponding image forming apparatus displayed on the D display 80 is selected by operating the keyboard 81. In this example, among the plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the communication adapter 11, information on the corresponding image forming apparatus is displayed. ) Or multiple pieces of information can be selected.

Subsequently, on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17, an operation for instructing the replacement of the firmware of the previously selected corresponding image forming apparatus (firmware replacement operation) is performed. CP of portable computer 17
U71 starts the processing shown in FIG. 22 (instead of the processing shown in FIGS. 11, 13, and 15 to 18) by periodically calling the main routine.

First, at step 101, it is checked whether or not the firmware replacement operation has been performed.
In steps 2 and 103, the same processes and determinations as those in steps 12 and 13 in FIG. 11 are performed. When inquiry response information (which matches the address of the portable computer 17) is received from the center system 1, the corresponding image is determined in step 104. It is determined whether or not there is a new change in the firmware version for the forming apparatus (whether or not there is a version change).

If there is a new change in the firmware version for the corresponding image forming apparatus, steps 105 and 106 execute steps 22 and 23 in FIG.
23, when download request response information is received from the center system 1, the download request response information is stored in the memory (R
The firmware is read from the stored download request response information in step 108, and the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter 11 is replaced in step 109.

If there is no new firmware version change for the image forming apparatus, information indicating that (new information indicating that there is no version change) is displayed on the LCD display 80 and output. I do. On the other hand, the CPU 31 of the client (any of 2a, 2b,...) Of the center system 1 performs the processing shown in FIGS.

When the portable computer 17 has an audio output function, information indicating that there is no version change can be output by audio. Further, information indicating that there is no version change can be output by forming an image on a sheet by an image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer 17 via the communication adapter 11.

As described above, the serviceman instructs the replacement of the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter 11 on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17 (firmware replacement operation).
Is performed, the portable computer 17 sends the information including the model and the machine number of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information for inquiring the center system 1 whether there is a new change of the firmware version for the image forming apparatus. In addition, the information is transmitted to the center system 1, response information is received from the center system 1 in response to the inquiry information, and it is determined whether or not a new firmware version change exists in the image forming apparatus. When there is a significant change, the information including the model and the machine number of the image forming apparatus is added to the request information for requesting the center system 1 to download the firmware whose version has been changed, and transmitted to the center system 1. Firmware whose version has been changed from the center system 1 for the request information When receiving the download request response information including the response information, the firmware stores the response information in the memory, reads the firmware in the stored response information, and replaces the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus. The same effect as that of the fifth embodiment can be obtained. Further, since there is no need to perform an inquiry request operation and a download request operation on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17, the work load of the service person is further reduced.

[Twelfth Embodiment: FIG. 23] FIG. 23 shows a twelfth embodiment (claims 15, 19, 27, 30, 4).
2 and 43).
24 is a flowchart showing a check completion process by the CPU 71 of FIG.
It is a flowchart which shows the database update process by U31.

After the firmware replacement process (the process shown in FIG. 15, FIG. 16, or FIG. 19 to FIG. 22) of the corresponding image forming apparatus is completed, the service person replaces the image forming apparatus. After checking various functional operations by the firmware and determining that the various functional operations are normal, an operation indicating completion of the various functional operations of the replaced firmware on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17 (check complete) Operation).

The CPU 71 of the portable computer 17
The check completion processing shown in FIG. 23 is periodically started by calling the main routine, and it is determined whether or not the check completion operation has been performed in step 111, and if the operation has been performed, the check completion processing is performed in step 112. Model / device number (other identification information may be used), standard configuration code, standard configuration version number, option configuration code, option configuration of the image forming apparatus selected earlier in the check completion information (completion notification data) indicating Information including a version number is added to the communication adapter 11 and the public communication network 5 in a data format as shown in FIG.
To the center system 1 via.

After the process of replacing the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus is completed, a service person checks various functional operations based on the replaced firmware, and determines that the various functional operations are normal. By performing an operation indicating the completion of the check of the various functions of the replaced firmware on the operation unit 124 of the corresponding image forming apparatus, the CPU of the image forming apparatus displays its model / machine in the check completion information. No. (may be other identification information), a standard configuration code, a standard configuration version number, an option configuration code, and information including an option configuration version number.
1 and the public communication network 5 to the center system 1.

On the other hand, the CPU 31 of the client of the center system 1 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 24 by calling the main routine, and first checks in step 221 whether the check completion information has been received from the portable computer 17. After checking and receiving the check completion information,
The device program management DB 59b (see FIG. 4) and the device change history DB 5 shown in FIG. 2 are used as keywords, with the model and device number of the image forming apparatus added to the information in step 222 as keywords.
9c (see FIG. 5) is updated. Therefore, the center system 1 can constantly maintain the latest equipment status.

As described above, the service person operates the communication adapter 11 on the keyboard 81 of the portable computer 17.
After the replacement of the firmware of the corresponding image forming apparatus connected to is completed, the portable computer 17 performs an operation (simple operation) indicating completion of checking of various functional operations by the replaced firmware. Information including the model and machine number of the image forming apparatus is added to the check completion information and transmitted to the center system 1. When the center system 1 receives the check completion information, the model of the image forming apparatus added to the information is transmitted. Since the device program management DB 59b and the device change history DB 59c are updated based on the device number, it is possible to prevent the work load of the serviceman and the center operator and the occurrence of various errors.

That is, when the serviceman uses the portable computer 17, the replacement of the firmware of the image forming apparatus and the checking of the various functions are completed, and the trouble of the telephone report from the customer A after the completion of the check is confirmed. There is no possibility of inducing a report error, a trouble of inputting update information by the center operator, or an input error.

The client 2 of the center system 1
a, 2b,..., server 3 and portable computer 1
In 7 and 27, various operations are performed on the keyboard. However, when other operation units such as a mouse are provided, various operations can be performed using the operation units.

[Recording Medium] A computer-readable program which records a program for causing the portable computers 17, 27 and the clients 2a, 2b... Of the center system 1 to execute the above-described functions (processing, judgment, etc.). It is also possible to create a recording medium such as a floppy disk or an optical disk (corresponding to claims 34 to 43).

By inserting the recording medium into a floppy disk device such as a general-purpose personal computer, a CD-ROM reader, or the like, reading a program recorded therein and installing the program in a storage device such as an internal hard disk. The functions can be provided as the portable computers 17, 27 used in the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention or the clients 2a, 2b... Of the center system 1.

[0194]

As described above, according to the present invention, the work by a serviceman when an abnormality occurs in an image forming apparatus of a customer used in an image forming apparatus management system can be economically and efficiently performed. In addition to this, it is possible to reduce the labor required by the center operator.

That is, the serviceman can connect the portable computer to the communication adapter when necessary and output information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. The image forming apparatus can be remarkably reduced, and the customer who has purchased the image forming apparatus avoids the unusable state (abnormal state) of the image forming apparatus as much as possible, and hardly causes a decrease in work efficiency. Further, when collecting the above information, only a dedicated interface is used as a communication interface, so that no burden is imposed on the center operator and no communication fee is charged.

Also, the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter can be operated by a simple operation on the portable computer without a service person inquiring the center operator by telephone from the customer. It is possible to know whether or not there is an upgraded version. Therefore, the burden on the serviceman and the center operator and the occurrence of various errors can be eliminated, and the communication fee can be reduced.

Further, even if the serviceman does not instruct the center operator over the telephone from the customer's point, the serviceman can perform the operation by a simple operation on the portable computer or the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. The image forming apparatus obtains the firmware whose version has been changed from the central management apparatus, or causes the obtained firmware to replace the firmware of the image forming apparatus. Can be reduced.

Further, after the replacement of the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter is completed, the service person sends the check completion information to the central management apparatus by a simple operation on the portable computer. Since transmission can be performed and required databases can be updated, it is possible to prevent the service load of the serviceman and the center operator and the occurrence of various errors.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a center system (central management device) 1 of FIG.

3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of clients 2a, 2b,..., Server 3 in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a device program management DB 59b of FIG. 2;

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of a device change history DB 59c of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of portable computers 17, 27 in FIG.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication adapter 11 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system of the copying machines 13 and 23 of FIG.

FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an outline of a processing operation according to the present invention in the image forming apparatus management system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing firmware version information output processing by the portable computer in the case of the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing version change presence / absence inquiry processing by the portable computer in the case of the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an inquiry response process by a client of the center system.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a download request process by the portable computer in the case of the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a download request response process by a client of the center system.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing firmware replacement processing by a portable computer according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a firmware replacement process by a portable computer according to a fifth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing firmware writing processing by a portable computer in the case of a sixth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a firmware writing process by the portable computer in the case of the seventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a firmware replacement process by a corresponding image forming apparatus in the case of the eighth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a firmware replacement process performed by a corresponding image forming apparatus according to a ninth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing firmware replacement processing by a corresponding image forming apparatus in the case of a tenth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart showing firmware replacement processing by the portable computer in the case of the eleventh embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a check completion process by the portable computer in the case of the twelfth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a database update process by a client of the center system.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a format example of communication data between the portable computers 17 and 27 of FIG. 1 and image forming apparatuses such as the copying machines 13 and 23.

26 is a diagram showing a format example of communication data between the portable computers 17, 27 and the center system 1 in FIG.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a format example of another communication data between the portable computers 17, 27 of FIG. 1 and the center system 1.

28 is a diagram showing an example of a format of communication data from an image forming apparatus such as the portable computers 17, 27 or the copying machines 13, 23 in FIG. 1 to the center system 1. FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1: Center system (central management device) 2a, 2b: Client 3: Server 4: Network 5: Public communication line network 11, 21: Communication adapter 12, 22: Facsimile device 13, 23: Copy machine 14, 24: Printer 15 : Printing machines 16, 25: Wired dedicated I / F 17, 27: Portable computer 18, 28: Card writer 26: Wireless I / F 26a, 26b, 26c: Wireless device 31, 51, 71, 105, 111: CPU 32, 52, 72: Real-time clock circuit 33, 53, 73, 106, 112: ROM 34, 54, 74, 114: RAM 35a, 35b: Communication control unit 36, 55, 76: External memory control unit 37 , 56, 77: display control unit 38, 57, 78: keyboard I / F circuit 3 , 58: Network I / F units 40, 59, 79: HDD 41, 60: CRT display 42, 61, 81: Keyboard 59a: Customer DB 59b: Device program management DB 59c: Device change history DB 80: LCD display 75, 103, 104: Communication I / F 101: Line switching circuit 102: Modem 107: Buffer memory 108: Battery 113: Non-volatile RAM 121: Card reader control unit 122: Card reader 123: Interface control unit 124: Operation unit

Claims (43)

[Claims] A central management device having a computer;
A plurality of communication adapters connected to the central management apparatus via a public communication network, and a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the plurality of communication adapters via dedicated interfaces, such as wired or wireless, respectively. An image forming apparatus management system for centrally managing the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public communication line network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces, and performing an image forming apparatus management business. Means for connecting a portable computer to at least one communication adapter of the plurality of communication adapters, and an image connected to the communication adapter by the portable computer connected to the communication adapter by the means. A firmware bar that reads information indicating the firmware version of the forming device John information reading means and the image forming apparatus management system characterized by the information read by said means display, in which a firmware version output means for outputting the image forming, or audio to the paper. 2. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein the firmware version output unit of the portable computer outputs information indicating the firmware version by displaying the information on a display unit of the portable computer. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: 3. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein the firmware version output means of the portable computer is connected to the portable computer via the communication adapter to output information indicating the firmware version. An image forming apparatus for outputting an image by causing the image forming apparatus to form an image on a sheet. 4. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein the portable computer connected to the communication adapter includes:
The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the inquiry information for inquiring the central management apparatus whether or not there is a new firmware version change for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Means for transmitting, and response information output means for outputting response information when response information is received from the central management device with respect to the inquiry information, wherein the central management device is provided with the inquiry from the portable computer. Upon receiving the information, checking whether there is a new change in the firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the inquiry information,
An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: means for transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer. 5. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 4, wherein the response information output unit of the portable computer outputs the response information by displaying the response information on a display unit of the portable computer. An image forming apparatus management system, characterized in that: 6. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 4, wherein said response information output means of said portable computer transmits said response information to said portable computer via said communication adapter. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising means for outputting an image by forming an image on a sheet by a forming apparatus. 7. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 4, wherein the portable computer connected to the communication adapter includes:
The identification information of the image forming apparatus is added to the download request information requesting the central management apparatus to download the firmware whose version has been changed to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter, and the download request information is transmitted to the central management apparatus. Means for transmitting, when receiving firmware from the central management device for the download request information,
Means for storing the firmware in a memory, wherein the central management device, when receiving the download request information from the portable computer, based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the download request information An image forming apparatus management system including means for transmitting firmware whose version has been changed to the portable computer. 8. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 7, wherein after the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed, the firmware stored in the memory is read into the portable computer, and the firmware is read through the communication adapter. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising means for replacing firmware of a connected image forming apparatus. 9. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 7, wherein a change instruction operation means for instructing the portable computer to exchange firmware is provided, and wherein the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed. Means for reading firmware stored in the memory when the replacement instruction operating means is operated, and for replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. Forming equipment management system. 10. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 7, wherein said portable computer is connected to a writing device into which a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card can be inserted, and said means is used for said portable computer. Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device when the storage of the firmware in the memory is completed in a state where the writing device having the recording medium inserted therein is connected. An image forming apparatus management system comprising: 11. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 7, wherein: a writing device connection unit that connects a writing device capable of inserting a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card to the portable computer; Writing instruction operating means for instructing writing of the firmware in the recording medium, and a writing device in which the recording medium is inserted after the accumulation of the firmware in the memory is completed, the writing device connecting means Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device when the write instruction operating means is operated in a state where the image forming apparatus is connected to the image forming apparatus. Equipment management system. 12. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 10, wherein a reading device capable of inserting the recording medium into at least one image forming apparatus among the plurality of image forming apparatuses, and firmware. When the replacement instruction operating means is operated in a state where a recording medium in which the firmware is written is inserted into the reading device, the recording device stores the recording data in the reading device. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: firmware replacement means for reading firmware from a medium and replacing firmware. 13. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 12, wherein identification information such as a model and a machine number of the image forming apparatus is also written on the recording medium. Prior to causing the reading device to read firmware from the recording medium, read the identification information, compare the read identification information with the identification information of the image forming apparatus,
An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that the firmware is read from the recording medium and the firmware is replaced only when the respective pieces of identification information match. 14. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 13, wherein the firmware replacement unit of the image forming apparatus does not match the identification information read from the recording medium with the identification information of the image forming apparatus. Means for causing the reading device to stop reading firmware from the recording medium, and displaying information indicating that the identification information does not match, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting the information by voice. Image forming apparatus management system. 15. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 8, wherein an image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer via the communication adapter is replaced. Operating means for instructing a notification of completion of checking various functions by the received firmware, and when the operating means is operated,
Means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus to the check completion information indicating the completion of the check and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus, wherein the central management apparatus manages firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses collectively. And a database for
A database for collectively managing the history of firmware replacement of each image forming apparatus and, when the check completion information is received from the portable computer, based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information. Means for updating each of the databases. 16. A plurality of communication adapters are connected to a central management device equipped with a computer via a public communication network,
A plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected to the plurality of communication adapters via wired or wireless dedicated interfaces, respectively, and the central management unit controls a public communication network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces. An image forming apparatus management method for providing a business of centrally managing the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a portable computer, wherein the portable computer is connected to at least one communication adapter among the plurality of communication adapters. The computer adds identification information of the image forming apparatus to inquiry information for inquiring the central management apparatus whether or not there is a new change in firmware version for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. To the management device, and the central management device receives the inquiry information. Then, based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information, it is checked whether there is a new change in the firmware version, and response information including the result is transmitted to the portable computer. Receiving and displaying the response information,
An image forming apparatus management method, wherein an image is formed on a sheet or output by voice. 17. The image forming apparatus management method according to claim 16, wherein the portable computer downloads the firmware whose version has been changed to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the download request information and transmitting the request to the central management apparatus. When the central management apparatus receives the download request information, the image formation apparatus attached to the request information is transmitted. Transmitting the firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the device to the portable computer, receiving the firmware, storing the firmware in a memory, reading the stored firmware, and executing the image forming process. Image characterized by replacing the firmware of the device Forming device management method. 18. A plurality of communication adapters are connected to a central management device equipped with a computer via a public communication network,
A plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected to the plurality of communication adapters via wired or wireless dedicated interfaces, respectively, and the central management unit controls a public communication network, the plurality of communication adapters, and the plurality of dedicated interfaces. An image forming apparatus management method for providing a business of centrally managing the plurality of image forming apparatuses via a portable computer, wherein the portable computer is connected to at least one communication adapter among the plurality of communication adapters. The computer adds identification information of the image forming apparatus to inquiry information for inquiring the central management apparatus whether or not there is a new change in firmware version for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. To the management device, and the central management device receives the inquiry information. Then, based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information, it is checked whether there is a new change in the firmware version, and response information including the result is transmitted to the portable computer. Receiving the response information, determining whether there is a new change in the firmware version for the image forming apparatus, and if there is a new change, there is a version change for the image forming apparatus. The download request information requesting the central management device to download the firmware is added to the identification information of the image forming apparatus and transmitted to the central management device. When the central management device receives the download request information, the request is issued. Firmware whose version has been changed based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information; The portable computer receives the firmware, stores the firmware in a memory, reads the stored firmware, and replaces the firmware of the image forming apparatus. Forming device management method. 19. The image forming apparatus management method according to claim 17, wherein the portable computer completes checking of various functional operations by the replaced firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. When the central management device receives the check completion information from the portable computer, the identification information is added to the information. Updating a database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses and a database for collectively managing the history of firmware replacement of each image forming apparatus based on the identification information of the image forming apparatuses. A method for managing an image forming apparatus, the method comprising: 20. A portable computer which is connected to a central management device equipped with a computer via a public communication network, and which can be connected to a communication adapter which is connected to the image forming apparatus via a wired or wireless dedicated interface. Firmware version information reading means for reading information indicating the firmware version of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter; and firmware for displaying the information read by the means, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting the information by voice A portable computer provided with version output means. 21. The portable computer according to claim 20, wherein the inquiry information for inquiring of the central management apparatus as to whether or not there is a new firmware version change for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus; and when response information to the inquiry information is received from the central management apparatus, displaying the response information, forming an image on a sheet, Or a response information output means for outputting by voice. 22. The portable computer according to claim 21, wherein the download request information requesting the central management device to download the firmware whose version has been changed to the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter. Means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus; and means for storing the firmware in a memory when the firmware is received from the central management apparatus in response to the download request information. A portable computer characterized by the above-mentioned. 23. The portable computer according to claim 22, wherein after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, the firmware stored in the memory is read and connected via the communication adapter. A portable computer provided with means for replacing firmware of the image forming apparatus. 24. The portable computer according to claim 22, wherein a replacement instruction operation means for instructing a replacement of firmware, and said replacement after the storage of the firmware received from said central management device in said memory is completed. Means for reading firmware stored in the memory when the instruction operation means is operated, and replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. Computer. 25. A portable computer according to claim 22, further comprising means for connecting a writing device to which a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card can be inserted, and a document to which said recording medium has been inserted by said means. With the embedded device connected,
Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device when the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed. . 26. The portable computer according to claim 22, wherein a writing device connecting means for connecting a writing device into which a recording medium such as an IC card or a memory card can be inserted, and writing firmware to the recording medium. Writing instruction operating means for instructing the writing device, and after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, the writing device into which the recording medium is inserted is connected by the writing device connecting means. Means for writing the firmware stored in the memory to the recording medium by the writing device when the write instruction operation means is operated in a connected state. . 27. The portable computer according to claim 23, wherein the operation for instructing a notification of completion of checking of various functions by the replaced firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter is performed. And a means for adding identification information of the image forming apparatus to check completion information indicating completion of the check and transmitting the check completion information to the central management apparatus when the operation means is operated. Type computer. 28. A central management unit connected to the portable computer according to claim 21 via the communication adapter and a public communication network, wherein the inquiry is received when the inquiry information is received from the portable computer. Means for checking whether there is a new change in firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information, and transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer. Central management unit. 29. A central management device connected to the portable computer according to claim 22, via the communication adapter and a public communication network, wherein the download request information is received from the portable computer. A central management device comprising means for transmitting firmware whose version has been changed based on identification information of the image forming apparatus added to download information to the portable computer. 30. A central management device connected to the portable computer according to claim 27 via the communication adapter and a public communication network, wherein a database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming devices is provided. A database for collectively managing the history of firmware replacement of each image forming apparatus, and when the check completion information is received from the portable computer, the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information. Means for updating each of the databases based on the central management device. 31. An image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer according to claim 25 or 26 via the communication adapter, wherein the instruction is to exchange firmware with a reading device into which the recording medium can be inserted. When the replacement instruction operating means is operated in a state where the recording medium in which the firmware is written is inserted into the reading device and the reading instruction device is operated, the firmware is read from the recording medium into the reading device. And a firmware replacement unit for performing firmware replacement. 32. The image forming apparatus according to claim 31, wherein the firmware replacing unit causes the reading device to read firmware from the recording medium,
Read the identification information written on the recording medium,
The read identification information is compared with the identification information of the image forming apparatus, and only when the respective identification information matches, the firmware is read from the recording medium and the firmware is replaced. Image forming apparatus. 33. The image forming apparatus according to claim 32, wherein the firmware replacement unit determines that the identification information read from the recording medium does not match the identification information of the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus for stopping reading of firmware from the recording medium, displaying information indicating that the identification information does not match, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting by voice. 34. A portable computer which is connected to a central management device equipped with a computer via a public communication network, and which can be connected to a communication adapter which is connected to the image forming apparatus via a wired or wireless dedicated interface. ,
A firmware version information reading function for automatically reading information indicating a firmware version of the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter, and a firmware for displaying the information read by the function, forming an image on a sheet, or outputting the information by voice A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for realizing a version output function is recorded. 35. The recording medium according to claim 34, wherein the central management unit determines whether or not there is a new change in firmware version for the image forming apparatus connected to the communication adapter in the portable computer. A function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the inquiry information for inquiring the apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus, and displaying the response information when the response information to the inquiry information is received from the central management apparatus A computer-readable recording medium, which also records a program for realizing a response information output function of forming an image on a sheet or outputting by voice. 36. When the inquiry information is received from the portable computer to the computer of a central management unit connected to the portable computer according to claim 21 via the communication adapter and a public communication network, the inquiry is made. A program for realizing a function of checking whether there is a new change in firmware version based on the identification information of the image forming apparatus added to the information and transmitting response information including the result to the portable computer is recorded. A computer-readable recording medium characterized by the above-mentioned. 37. The recording medium according to claim 35, wherein the central management unit downloads firmware whose version has been changed to an image forming apparatus connected to the portable computer via the communication adapter. A function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the download request information requested by the apparatus and transmitting the information to the central management apparatus; and A computer-readable recording medium characterized by recording a program for realizing a function to be stored in a memory. 38. When receiving the download request information from the portable computer, the portable computer according to claim 22 is connected to a computer of a central management device connected via the communication adapter and a public communication network. A computer-readable recording medium storing a program for realizing a function of transmitting firmware whose version has been changed based on identification information of the image forming apparatus added to download information to the portable computer. 39. The recording medium according to claim 37, wherein after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, the firmware stored in the memory is read into the portable computer. A computer-readable recording medium, which also records a program for realizing a function of replacing firmware of an image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. 40. The recording medium according to claim 37, wherein after the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, the portable computer issues an instruction to replace the firmware on the operation unit. A computer-readable program for reading the firmware stored in the memory and performing a function of replacing the firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. Recording medium. 41. The recording medium according to claim 37, wherein a function of connecting a writing device having a firmware recording medium for recording firmware, such as an IC card or a memory card, to the portable computer,
When the storage of the firmware received from the central management device in the memory is completed, a program for realizing a writing function of writing the firmware stored in the memory to the firmware recording medium by the writing device is also recorded. A computer-readable recording medium characterized by the above-mentioned. 42. The recording medium according to claim 39, wherein the portable computer confirms completion of various functional operations by the replaced firmware of the image forming apparatus connected via the communication adapter. A computer-readable recording medium, further recording a program for realizing a function of adding the identification information of the image forming apparatus to the check completion information and transmitting the check completion information to the central management apparatus. 43. When the check completion information is received from the portable computer to a computer of a central management unit connected to the portable computer according to claim 27 via the communication adapter and a public communication network, A database for collectively managing firmware versions of the image forming apparatuses based on the identification information of the image forming apparatuses added to the information and a database for collectively managing the history of firmware replacement of the image forming apparatuses. A computer-readable recording medium on which a program for realizing a function of updating a program is recorded.