JP3887127B2 - Image forming apparatus management system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus management system in which an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printing apparatus is connected to a center apparatus which is a management apparatus via a communication line, and the center apparatus controls and manages the image forming apparatus.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine or a printing apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus through local communication means, and a communication adapter apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line. There has been an image forming apparatus management system comprising a center apparatus for remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus.
[0003]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, the conventional image forming apparatus management system as described above has the following problems.
[0004]
(1) In the conventional image forming apparatus management system, various operation parameters, user setting data, operation record data, and internal data such as various counters stored in the image forming apparatus are temporarily stored outside the image forming apparatus. When it is necessary to evacuate, for example, when replacing the battery of a battery that has been backed up by a battery, when it is necessary to replace a printed circuit board on which the memory is also mounted, or for replacement of the image forming apparatus itself When using the communication system, there is a problem that if it is retracted to the center device of the center system via the communication line, it takes a communication time and a communication fee is generated.
[0005]
In addition, the center system has a problem that the processing increases beyond normal traffic, and if the data capacity of internal data to be transferred is large, the normal operation is hindered.
[0006]
Therefore, it is conceivable to connect a portable personal computer (portable terminal device) such as a laptop computer to the image forming apparatus and save the internal data in the storage device of the portable terminal device. There is no interface for connecting to a portable terminal device, and it is for maintenance even if it exists, so you have to open the back cover with a screwdriver, just replace the device, etc. In this case, there is a problem that it is very inconvenient.
[0007]
This is because a maintenance interface provided in a normal image forming apparatus is generally a memory card interface used for program replacement, and a serial interface such as RS-232C is for development and inspection. This is because it is not disclosed for maintenance.
[0008]
In addition, since the internal data saving via the memory card is an offline operation, it is impossible to read / write directly from the personal computer, and it is necessary to execute the saving operation on the image forming apparatus side.
[0009]
However, an image forming apparatus having only a limited number of input keys and a display screen can only perform a very limited operation, so that there is a problem that the evacuation operation cannot be easily performed.
[0010]
Therefore, when a terminal device such as a personal computer is connected to a communication interface (CSS-IF) for remote management, which is prepared in an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine and is the only interface that can be connected immediately. In addition, it is necessary to prepare a CSS-IF on the terminal device side in advance, which causes a problem that the cost of the board and adapter becomes a heavy burden.
[0011]
Furthermore, it is conceivable that the internal data is saved in the memory of a communication adapter that is connected to the image forming apparatus and communicates with the center apparatus via a communication line. Has to be prepared, resulting in a problem that the cost burden of the communication adapter increases.
[0012]
In recent years, image forming apparatuses such as copiers and printing apparatuses have built-in hard disk devices, and the internal storage capacity is steadily increasing. Therefore, a hard disk of a personal computer is also used as a storage device for saving internal data. If it is not used, the capacity that can be saved may be limited.
[0013]
As described above, the first problem of this case is that the conventional image forming apparatus management system cannot easily perform the operation of temporarily saving the internal data of the image forming apparatus.
[0014]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and has as its first object to provide the most efficient means for temporarily or permanently saving the internal data of the image forming apparatus to the outside. .
[0015]
Next, the program management of the image forming apparatus, the conventional management work is performed by the service person based on the instruction, the new program recorded on the above-mentioned memory card is mounted on the image forming apparatus and replaced as necessary. I was working.
Such a method has a problem that operations are limited as described above and a large number of expensive memory cards must be prepared.
[0016]
Therefore, if the program is downloaded from the center device via the communication adapter device, there arises a problem that when the program capacity increases, the communication time becomes longer, the processing load on the center device increases, and the communication cost increases.
[0017]
In addition, there is a merit that online download is possible without a service person, but it is preferable to check the operation after downloading, because the image forming apparatus can not be used while downloading the program. It is desirable to rewrite the program when a service person goes.
[0018]
Internal data such as operation parameters, user setting data, or operation record data is set at the time of shipment from the factory, automatically generated while the image forming apparatus is in operation, or operated by a service person or user. And some or all of them can be read / written from the center apparatus via the communication adapter.
[0019]
However, the center device reads / writes internal data such as these parameters and log data only when there is a failure report, and the read data is not stored and managed.
[0020]
Therefore, the internal data of the image forming apparatus is managed individually by the service person or the user by operating the image forming apparatus. However, as described above, there are restrictions on the key input and the display screen, so that the contents can be grasped and set. There are significant restrictions on the instructions.
[0021]
That is, when setting, there is no keyboard for inputting alphabets, kana and kanji, and only the numeric keypad can be used. Therefore, kana-kanji conversion is very inferior compared to personal computers, etc. There is a problem that the operation is very inconvenient because there is no GUI operation environment using a pointer such as a mouse.
[0022]
Furthermore, it is inconvenient that the contents of the internal data cannot be saved as a file, and only a method such as writing on paper is provided when it is desired to store the previous setting contents. There was a problem that it took a lot of work to restore.
[0023]
As described above, the second problem to be solved by the present case is that in the conventional image forming apparatus management system, in addition to the above-described various parameters, user setting data, and operation recording data, the program of the image forming apparatus, etc. It means that I / O cannot be easily managed.
[0024]
A second object of the present invention is to provide the most efficient means for locally managing internal data of an image forming apparatus.
[0025]
Next, the print server connected to the normal network (LAN) is managed by the print server, and the status can be monitored and instructed from the client personal computer (PC) connected to the LAN.
[0026]
However, in the past, only the status of the printing device (busy, ready, no paper, out of toner, etc.) that can be obtained via the LAN is the target, and the operating status of the device (total number of prints, etc.) I didn't know.
[0027]
This is because the parameters that affect the function and performance of the device are necessary only for a special administrator, so that they cannot be changed unnecessarily by the user. Previously, they could not be accessed from the LAN interface of the printing device. .
[0028]
These parameters are information that only the manufacturer's maintenance personnel need to know, so the format is not always standardized, and there are many cases depending on the model and model.
[0029]
Accordingly, it is considered that those internal parameters that can be standardized to some extent in the future can be read out from the LAN interface, but much information is still not disclosed.
[0030]
However, since the information required at the time of failure or maintenance is such an internal parameter, if the information that can be extracted from the CSS interface is managed for each device by the print server, the user of the personal computer at the time of abnormality or maintenance It becomes possible to respond flexibly using the interface.
[0031]
In addition, since the print server is connected to the user's LAN, if necessary, files can be sent to and received from the center device using the Internet, etc., so that flexible online processing is possible in addition to routine call processing. Is also possible.
[0032]
As described above, the third problem to be solved in this case is that the management of parameters and programs cannot be included in the management of the printing apparatus in the print server in the conventional image forming apparatus management system. is there.
[0033]
  This invention uses the internal data of the image forming apparatus.Server functionThe third purpose is to provide a means for integrated management.
[0034]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, the present invention connects an image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and the image via the communication adapter apparatus. In an image forming apparatus management system comprising a center apparatus for remotely controlling and managing the forming apparatus, the communication adapter apparatus is provided with a connection interface means with a terminal apparatus, and the terminal apparatus is connected to the connection interface means, Internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus to the terminal device via the communication adapter device and storing and managing the internal data in a storage deviceAnd internal data restoring means for restoring the internal data of the image forming apparatus by writing the internal data stored in the storage device to the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter deviceIs provided.
[0036]
  Furthermore, in the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the terminal device isPortable terminal deviceIt is good to.
[0037]
  In the image forming apparatus management system as described above, a plurality of client terminal apparatuses are connected to the terminal apparatus via a local area network, and each client terminal apparatus is connected to the terminal apparatus.serviceIt is preferable to provide server means for realizing the above and means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage device.
[0038]
  Further, in the image forming apparatus management system as described above, a service is provided in which a plurality of client terminal apparatuses are connected to the terminal apparatus via a local area network, and each of the client terminal apparatuses shares the image forming apparatus. RealizeServer meansAnd means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage device.
[0039]
In the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the connection interface unit may be a data transfer unit based on the USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard.
[0040]
Further, in the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the connection interface unit may be a wireless data transfer unit.
[0041]
In the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the data transfer unit may be a data transfer unit based on a spread spectrum system.
[0042]
Further, in the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the data transfer unit may be a data transfer unit based on an infrared system.
[0043]
  In the image forming apparatus management system as described above, the portable terminal deviceRadio waveIt is preferable that a means for connecting a mobile communication device capable of data communication according to the above and a method for transmitting / receiving the internal data to / from the center device via the mobile communication device connected to the means.
[0044]
  Further, an image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus. In an image forming apparatus management system comprising an apparatus, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus,The connection between the image forming device and the communication adapter device, or the connection between the image forming device and the terminal device is a connection by a communication means based on a local area network connection,
Internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus in the terminal device and storing and managing the internal data in a storage deviceAnd a means for realizing a WEB server, by which the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet.Things are also provided.
[0045]
  Also,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In the image forming apparatus management system, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a local area network connection. Connection by means of communication based onIn the above terminal device,Internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device;A plurality of client terminal devices are connected via a local area network, and server means for realizing the service for each client terminal device, and each client terminal device is allowed to read and write internal data to the storage device Means to doAnd means for realizing a WEB server, by which the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet.Good.
[0046]
  further,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In the image forming apparatus management system, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a local area network connection. Connection by means of communication based onIn the above terminal device,Internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device;A service is realized in which a plurality of client terminal devices are connected via a local area network, and the image forming devices are shared by the client terminal devices.Server meansAnd means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage deviceAnd means for realizing a WEB server, by which the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet.Good.
[0047]
  Also,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In this image forming apparatus management system, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is an Ethernet connection. The terminal device is provided with internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server. The internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device viaGood.
[0048]
  further,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In this image forming apparatus management system, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is an Ethernet connection. Yes, internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device is connected to the terminal device, and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected via a local area network. , Server means for providing services to each client terminal device, and each client terminal device Means for permitting reading / writing of internal data to the storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server, by which the internal data stored in the storage device is accessed from the center device via the Internet. So that you can getGood.
[0049]
  Also,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In this image forming apparatus management system, a terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is an Ethernet connection. Yes, internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device is connected to the terminal device, and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected via a local area network. Server means for realizing a service for sharing the image forming apparatus with each client terminal device; A means for allowing each client terminal device to read / write internal data to / from the storage device and a means for realizing a WEB server are provided, which are stored in the storage device from the center device via the Internet. So that internal data can be accessed and retrievedGood.
[0050]
  further,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In the image forming apparatus management system comprising: a terminal device connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a local area network connection. The internal data management means for acquiring the internal data of the image forming apparatus in the terminal device and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device, and the means for realizing the WEB server The internal data stored in the storage device from the center device via the Internet by means of So that it can be retrieved by accessingGood.
[0051]
  Also,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In the image forming apparatus management system comprising: a terminal device connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a local area network connection. The internal data management means for acquiring the internal data of the image forming apparatus to the terminal device and storing and managing the internal data in the storage device, and the local data via the local area network. A service that connects multiple client terminal devices and provides services to each client terminal device. Means for permitting each of the client terminal devices to read and write internal data to the storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server. The storage device from the center device via the Internet by means of the means is provided. To access and retrieve internal data stored inGood.
[0052]
  further,An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus; In the image forming apparatus management system comprising: a terminal device connected to the image forming apparatus, and the connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a local area network connection. The internal data management means for acquiring the internal data of the image forming apparatus to the terminal device and storing and managing the internal data in the storage device, and the local data via the local area network. Connect multiple client terminal devices and share the image forming device with each client terminal device Server means for realizing the service, means for permitting each of the client terminal devices to read and write internal data to the storage device, means for realizing a WEB server, and the means via the Internet by means of the means The internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device.Good.
[0054]
According to the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention, the service person can carry the image forming apparatus without transferring various internal data of the image forming apparatus to the center apparatus and without making major changes to the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus. Can be saved in a storage device of a personal computer or a server device connected to the LAN.
[0055]
Further, editing, searching, key input, print output, etc. can be easily performed on a personal computer carried by the service person or a server connected to the LAN, and the database can be managed as necessary.
[0056]
  In addition, during maintenance or maintenance, the maintenance staff can log in with a privileged password from the client PC connected to the user's LAN without using any special devices.serverDetailed parameters for each device managed above can be manipulated.
[0057]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings.
First, a configuration example of a general remote diagnosis system as a base of an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention will be described.
[0058]
FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a general remote diagnosis system.
In this remote diagnosis system, a CSS center 100 that is a center device such as a computer that remotely controls and manages a plurality of image forming apparatuses, and a communication adapter (device) 300 installed in a customer's office connect a communication line 200. Connected through.
[0059]
Further, the image forming apparatus group 400 is connected to the communication adapter 300, and up to five image forming apparatus groups 400 such as copiers and printing apparatuses can be connected by a local communication means such as a serial interface or a local area network (LAN). It is connected.
[0060]
The communication adapter 300 and each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 are connected by a daisy chain method, and the communication adapter 300 can communicate with a specific image forming apparatus by identifying the address of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405. it can.
[0061]
Further, since the communication amount between the CSS center 100 and the communication adapter 300 is relatively small and the communication frequency is not high, a normal public line (PSTN) is used for the communication line 200. However, ISDN, optical communication, etc. A communication line capable of exchanging a large amount of data at high speed may be used.
[0062]
The remote diagnosis system configured as described above periodically accesses the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 from the CSS center 100 via the communication line 200 and the communication adapter 300, and determines the operation status of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405. Maintenance information can be acquired and the status of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can be diagnosed from a remote location.
[0063]
Next, an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention using the remote diagnosis system as described above will be described.
[0064]
(1) A remote diagnosis system which is a first embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention. Components common to those in FIG. Only the part will be described in detail.
[0065]
In this remote diagnosis system, a PC 500 which is a terminal device such as a personal computer is connected to the communication adapter 300 in the remote diagnosis system as shown in FIG. 11, and the CSS center 100, the communication adapter including the PC 500 is connected. 300 and each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 incorporate a microcomputer such as a CPU, a ROM, and a RAM, and realize various functions related to the present invention described later.
[0066]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration inside communication adapter 300 shown in FIG. In this communication adapter 300, the data sent from the CSS center 100 via the communication line (public line) 200 is received by the line control unit (NCU) 310, demodulated by the modem unit (MODEM) 320, and then stored in the control. (CPU & MEM) 330 temporarily stores the data.
[0067]
Thereafter, the data is passed through the local line communication protocol unit (HDLC) 340 based on the control information, and then sent from the driver unit (DRV / RCV) 350 to the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 which are OA devices such as a copying machine and a printing apparatus. Send it out.
[0068]
The control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 330 is provided with a PC interface (RS-232C) 360. The PC 500 is connected via the PC interface 360 and temporarily stored in the control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 330. Data is transferred to the PC 500 and data received from the PC 500 is transferred to the CSS center 100.
[0069]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a detailed hardware configuration of the communication adapter 300 shown in FIG.
This communication adapter 300 has line control corresponding to the line control unit (NCU) 310, modem unit (MODEM) 320, local line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 340, and driver unit (DRV / RCV) 350 shown in FIG. Unit (NCU) 311, modem unit (MODEM) 321, private line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 341, driver unit (DRV / RCV) 351, and S-PORT 361 corresponding to the PC interface 360 is provided. .
[0070]
The control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 330 includes a CPU 331, a RAM 332, and a ROM 333.
Further, in addition to the functions described with reference to FIG. 2, a real-time clock (RTC) for recording the operation time is provided, which includes an LED / SW 335 including an LED for displaying the operation status of the apparatus and an SW for instructing the operation. 334 is also provided.
[0071]
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the communication adapter 300 shown in FIG.
This communication adapter 300 includes three types of communication interface drivers, a MODEM driver 391, an RS-232C driver 392, and an HDLC driver 393, as the driver unit 390, and controls the hardware of the PC interface 360, respectively. Yes.
[0072]
In addition, an RS protocol program 380 is provided as a protocol layer above the driver unit 390 and implements a transmission control procedure.
Furthermore, an application program 370 is provided as the application layer at the highest level, and controls data accumulation and transfer.
[0073]
In the communication adapter 300 configured as described above, the control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 330 performs various operation parameters, user setting data, and operation record data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the driver unit (DRV / RCV) 350. , Counter data, program data, and other internal data are acquired and transferred to the PC 500 using the PC interface (RS-232C) 360, or the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 received from the PC 500 is a driver. To each corresponding device via the unit (DRV / RCV) 350.
[0074]
In the PC 500, a control unit (not shown) realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like acquires internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the communication adapter 300. Each internal data is stored in an internal storage device and managed.
Although not shown, the internal data may be stored in an external storage device connected to the PC 500.
[0075]
Further, the internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 managed in the storage device is transferred via the communication adapter 300 as necessary, and the internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is restored.
[0076]
That is, the PC interface 360 of the communication adapter 300 functions as a connection interface means with the PC 500.
[0077]
The PC 500 acquires internal data such as various operation parameters, user setting data, operation record data, counter data, and program data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the communication adapter 300, and the internal data. Fulfills the function of internal data management means for storing and managing data in a storage device.
[0078]
Further, the PC 500 functions as an internal data restoring unit that writes internal data stored in the storage device to each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the communication adapter 300 to restore the internal data of each image forming apparatus. Also fulfills.
[0079]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an interface unit of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 illustrated in FIG.
The interface unit 410 includes a driver unit (DRV / RCV) 411, a private line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 412 and a control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 413, and the data from the main control unit as in the case of the communication adapter 300. Is transferred to the control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 413 and sent from the driver unit (DRV / RCV) 411 to the communication adapter 300 via the local line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 412.
[0080]
As in the case of the communication adapter 300, the control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 413 executes the driver and RS protocol of the local line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 412. In this case, the application is executed by the main control unit. .
[0081]
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a frame configuration of the RS protocol in the local line communication procedure unit (HDLC) 412.
When communication is performed between the CSS center 100 and the communication adapter 300 via the communication line (public line) 200, the data is transmitted in the format shown in FIG.
[0082]
This frame includes a host (HOST) header portion and a host (HOST) data portion, and the host header portion includes “S-TYP”, “S-ADR”, “D-TYP”, “D-ADR”, and “H-CTL”. "H-OPR" and "H-LNG" are stored, and data with the image forming apparatus is stored in the host data portion.
[0083]
That is, transfer information such as addresses and commands between stations is exchanged in the host header portion, and the communication adapter 300 transfers the host data portion from which the host header portion has been removed to each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.
Further, the host header portion is added to the data from each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 and the data is sent to the CSS center 100.
[0084]
Further, during communication between the communication adapter 300 and each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, the data is transmitted in the format shown in FIG.
The frame in this case includes a peripheral header portion and a peripheral data portion, and the peripheral header portion includes “P-TYP”, “P-ADR”, “P-CTL”, “P-OPR”, and “P-OPR”. -LNG "is stored, and data with the image forming apparatus is stored in the peripheral data section.
[0085]
That is, transfer information such as addresses and commands on the premises is exchanged in the peripheral header section, and the interface section 410 of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 transfers the peripheral data section from which the peripheral header section is removed to the main control section. .
[0086]
In addition, the peripheral header part is added to the data from the main control part and the data is sent to the communication adapter 300.
[0087]
On the other hand, when data from each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is transferred to the CSS center 100, a frame of the format shown in FIG. Assembling into a frame of the format shown in FIG.
[0088]
When data is sent from the CSS center 100 to each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, the frame having the format shown in FIG. 6B is used as the data part, and the frame is assembled into the frame having the format shown in FIG. Is transferred to the communication adapter 300.
[0089]
Further, since the PC 500 connected to the communication adapter 300 is also a locally connected host station as viewed from the communication adapter 300, the internal frames of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 are displayed in a frame having the format shown in FIG. Sends and receives various data such as data.
[0090]
That is, the communication adapter 300 analyzes the host header part of the data sent from the PC 500, takes in the data part if it is addressed to its own adapter, and sends it to the designated address otherwise.
[0091]
If the command is a transfer command if it is addressed to itself, the host data part interprets it as a frame of the format shown in FIG. 6B and transfers it to the image forming apparatus specified by the peripheral address. .
In this case, the communication adapter 300 adds a host header part to the response data from the image forming apparatus and returns it to the PC 500.
[0092]
As described above, the PC 500 connected to the communication adapter 300 transfers the image to the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 as if commanded from the CSS center 100, and the response is sent from the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 to the PC 500. Forwarded to
[0093]
Although data transfer between the PC 500 and the CSS center 100 and data transfer between the PC 500 and another communication adapter are possible, the description is omitted because they are not directly related to the present invention.
[0094]
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a sequence of the above processing, and the above processing will be described in more detail with reference to FIGS.
When reading internal data (for example, operation parameters) of a specific image forming apparatus from the PC 500, first, a header portion of a frame having the format shown in FIG.
[0095]
Each data stored in the header portion will be described below.
1) P-TYP: type of image forming apparatus (PPC, LP, FAX, etc.)
2) P-ADR: Device address of the image forming apparatus
3) P-CTL: Control information (in this case, command)
4) P-OPR: Execution command (in this case, operation parameter read)
5) P-LNG: Length of the data part
In this case, since there is no data to be sent from the PC to the image forming apparatus, the data portion is unnecessary.
[0096]
Next, the header of the frame having the format shown in FIG. 6A is created using the frame having the format shown in FIG. 6B as the host data portion.
Each data stored in the header portion will be described below.
[0097]
1) S-TYP: Source device type (PC)
2) S-ADR: Line address (phone number) of source device
3) D-TYP: Type of destination device (adapter)
4) D-ADR: Line address (telephone number) of destination device
5) H-CTL: Control information (in this case, transfer command)
6) H-LNG: The length of the data part, that is, the PC transmits the parameter read command, and transfers the host data part to the communication adapter directly connected with the same address. The image is transferred to the image forming apparatus designated by the peripheral address.
[0098]
As a result, each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 receives the parameter read command from the PC 500 and returns the operation parameters set in the own apparatus to the PC 500 via the communication adapter 300.
[0099]
The operation parameter return procedure of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is the reverse of the above-described processing, and the interface unit of the image forming apparatus adds a peripheral header part to the parameter data from the main controller unit, and transmits the parameters. To the communication adapter 300. In this case, P-CTL: control information (in this case, response) is used.
[0100]
In the communication adapter 300, the frame received in the format shown in FIG. 6A is used as a host data portion, and a host header portion is added to the frame and transmitted to the PC 500. In this case, H-CTL: control information (in this case, transfer response) is used.
[0101]
Next, in order to write the internal data (for example, operation parameters) of the image forming apparatus stored in the PC 500 to the corresponding image forming apparatus, the following procedure is performed.
First, the PC 500 uses the parameter data (operation parameter) as a peripheral data part, and creates a header part having the format shown in FIG. In this case, P-OPR: execution command (in this case, operation parameter write) is used.
[0102]
Thereafter, as in the case of the above-described read, the PC 500 transmits a parameter write command (Parameter Write Command) to the communication adapter 300, and the communication adapter 300 transfers it to the image forming apparatus designated by the peripheral address.
[0103]
The image forming apparatus passes the command received from the communication adapter 300 and the operation parameter, which is data, to the main controller unit, and executes a writing (Done) process.
[0104]
When the writing is completed, the fact is notified to the interface unit, and a frame without a data unit is created in the format shown in FIG. In this case, P-CTL: control information (in this case, response) is used.
After that, it is the same as the above-mentioned read response return, and the only difference is that no data part is attached.
[0105]
In this way, when the PC 500 transmits / receives a command instead of transmitting / receiving a command from the CSS center 100, the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can be held and managed by the PC 500.
[0106]
According to this remote diagnosis system, the operation parameters of the image forming apparatus can be temporarily saved in the external storage device of the terminal device such as a personal computer. Therefore, the internal data as various parameters of the image forming apparatus can be stored. You can easily change it back at any time after making changes and testing it, so you don't have to take notes.
[0107]
Even after the memory board of the image forming apparatus is replaced or initialized, internal data such as parameters that have been used before can be easily restored, so there is no need for resetting.
[0108]
Furthermore, in an image forming apparatus equipped with flash memory and capable of rewriting a program, it is possible to read out the version number of the program in addition to the operation parameters and rewrite it with a newer program, or to manage the version number with a PC. Become.
[0109]
In addition, since the functions as described above can be used only by installing the corresponding software on a personal computer that is normally used by a user instead of dedicated equipment, it can be easily introduced.
[0110]
Of course, it is possible to use a dedicated personal computer used for departmental charge management of copiers, but in a relatively small office, it can be used by connecting to the administrator's personal computer. Can grasp the operation state of the image forming apparatus by looking at the operation parameters.
[0111]
Next, as an interface between the PC 500 and the communication adapter 300, a USB interface or an IEEE 1394 interface based on the USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard may be used.
[0112]
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with a USB interface or an IEEE 1394 interface based on the USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard, and the PC 500 is connected to the interface unit.
[0113]
These USB or IEEE 1394 interfaces have a hot-swap function. Specifically, the power pins in the connector are connected before other signal pins due to the arrangement. , Both can be connected and disconnected while the power is on.
[0114]
In this way, by making the interface between the communication adapter and the portable terminal device a LAN interface, for example, if USB or IEEE 1394 is used, they are standard interfaces of personal computers and are similar to LANs. Multiple devices can be connected using HUB.
[0115]
Therefore, as described above, the distance limitation of RS-232C is eliminated, and it is convenient not to wire to a place where a personal computer is installed, but it is only necessary to wire to a place where there is a HUB.
Another advantage is that it can be implemented at a lower cost than the LAN interface.
[0116]
Next, as a method of eliminating the electrical connection and eliminating the need for a cable between the PC 500 and the communication adapter 300, a wireless interface that enables wireless data transfer may be used.
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with an interface unit for wireless data transfer means, and the PC 500 is connected to the interface unit.
[0117]
For example, the RS-232C interface can be wirelessly used, and a conversion adapter may be used or preferably built-in.
Further, in the communication adapter 300, it has already been put to practical use to use the wireless interface for the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, and the 232C interface unit can be easily wireless.
In this way, if the interface between the communication adapter 300 and the PC 500 is wirelessly connected, the arrangement of the PC 500 can be easily changed.
[0118]
Next, the communication adapter 300 may be provided with spread spectrum wireless data transfer means.
Thus, if the spread spectrum system is used for the interface between the PC 500 and the communication adapter 300, it is possible to coexist without being disturbed or disturbed even when a wireless LAN is used in the office. There is.
[0119]
The interface between the PC 500 and the communication adapter 300 may be a system using infrared rays.
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with an interface unit of data transfer means based on the infrared system, and the PC 500 is connected to the interface unit.
As described above, infrared interfaces are widely used in television remote controllers and the like, which is advantageous in terms of cost.
[0120]
Thus, by devising the connection with the communication adapter 300, the PC 500 can be connected to the communication adapter 300 at a low cost, and the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can be controlled and managed.
[0121]
Next, a case where a portable terminal device (portable PC) is connected instead of the PC 500 of the communication adapter 300 will be described.
That is, instead of the PC 500, a portable terminal device such as a PDA or a notebook personal computer is connected to the communication adapter 300 via an interface unit.
[0122]
As described above, the use of a portable PC such as a personal digital assistant (PDA) or a notebook personal computer is that the serviceman can take home and manage and update files, and the serviceman maintains it. Since a single PC can cope with a plurality of systems, it is desirable that the PC carried by the service person can be easily connected to or disconnected from the communication adapter 300 in the field.
[0123]
The communication adapter 300 normally operates with the power turned on, and the memory is backed up by a battery in case of a power failure or in case of a change in arrangement. It's okay to turn off the power, and you can use it manually, usually with both machines off and connected.
In reality, if one of the machines is off, there is no problem in connection, so the communication adapter 300 is not turned off for connection.
[0124]
Therefore, even if the interface between the communication adapter 300 and the portable PC is RS-232C, no special special consideration is required electrically, but the position and shape of the connector need to be physically considered. .
[0125]
In this way, by using the portable terminal device, it is possible to manage the data of each image forming apparatus with a PDA or notebook personal computer brought by the service person as needed without using the user's personal computer. The service person can efficiently perform operations such as maintenance of the image forming apparatus.
[0126]
Further, since the service person can bring back the operation parameters of the image forming apparatus that has undergone maintenance and inspection to the service station, analysis, storage, and analysis can be performed using a HOST computer as necessary.
[0127]
Furthermore, when updating the program of the image forming apparatus, it is possible to prepare a program downloaded from the CSS center database in advance at the service station, and the program update operation of the image forming apparatus can be performed quickly.
[0128]
By the way, a portable terminal device such as a notebook PC is convenient because it has a function of shifting to a sleep mode while maintaining the operation state without turning off the power every time. If it is necessary to drop this function, this function cannot be used effectively.
[0129]
Therefore, in such a case, a USB interface or an IEEE 1394 interface based on the USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard may be used as an interface between the portable PC and the communication adapter 300.
[0130]
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with a USB interface or an IEEE 1394 interface based on the USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard, and a portable terminal device is connected to the interface unit.
[0131]
These USB or IEEE 1394 interfaces have a hot-swap function. Specifically, the power pins in the connector are connected before other signal pins due to the arrangement. , Both can be connected and disconnected while the power is on.
[0132]
In this way, USB or IEEE 1394 is a standard interface for personal computers, and a plurality of devices can be connected using HUB in the same manner as LAN.
[0133]
In particular, it has the greatest effect in that it is an interface that allows hot-plugging / unplugging of a portable PC, and a service person can immediately perform the above-described work, thereby improving work efficiency.
Another advantage is that it can be implemented at a lower cost than the LAN interface.
[0134]
Next, as a method of eliminating the electrical connection and eliminating the need for a cable for the interface between the portable PC and the communication adapter 300, a wireless interface that enables wireless data transfer may be used.
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with an interface unit for wireless data transfer means, and a portable terminal device is connected to the interface unit.
[0135]
For example, the RS-232C interface can be wirelessly used, and a conversion adapter may be used or preferably built-in.
Further, in the communication adapter 300, it has already been put to practical use to use the wireless interface for the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, and the 232C interface unit can be easily wireless.
Thus, if wireless connection is used, the arrangement of the portable terminal device can be easily changed, and workability can be improved.
[0136]
Furthermore, in a notebook PC, a wireless LAN card that can be built in a card slot has been put into practical use on the notebook PC side, but it is better to develop a simple method considering the cost of the communication adapter 300 side. It seems good.
[0137]
Currently, the USB interface is being developed wirelessly, and when such an interface is put to practical use, it will be very easy to use. There are drawbacks.
[0138]
In particular, around the communication adapter 300 placed on the back side of an image forming apparatus such as a copier, there is an environment where there is a lot of noise and radio waves are difficult to reach.
As an effective wireless communication method in such a case, there is a spread spectrum method, which has recently been adopted as a wireless LAN standard method.
Therefore, the communication adapter 300 is provided with spread spectrum wireless data transfer means.
[0139]
In this way, if the spread spectrum system is used for the interface between the portable PC and the communication adapter 300, not only the performance is excellent but also the interference is caused even when the wireless LAN is used in the office. There is an advantage that they can coexist without being disturbed.
[0140]
In other words, the spread spectrum method can coexist with the operation of the wireless LAN used by the user, and does not adversely affect the surrounding LAN even if the frequency is the same.
This is because a function called carrier sense is employed, and the other station suspends its own transmission during transmission.
[0141]
Further, as an alternative to the wireless communication as described above, the interface between the portable PC and the communication adapter 300 may be a system using infrared rays.
That is, the communication adapter 300 is provided with an interface unit of data transfer means based on the infrared system, and a portable terminal device is connected to the interface unit.
[0142]
As described above, the infrared interface is also widely used in television remote controllers and the like, and can be realized at low cost.
Also, infrared communication in a personal computer environment has been standardized as IrDA, and many recent notebook PCs or the like have this function.
Note that the drawback of the interface using infrared rays is the straightness of radio waves, but it can be solved by arranging the light receiving unit on the communication adapter 300 side next to the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.
[0143]
Thus, by devising the connection with the communication adapter 300, the portable PC can be connected to the communication adapter 300, and the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can be controlled and managed.
[0144]
Next, if a mobile communication device capable of data communication using radio waves such as a mobile phone or a PHS is connected to the PC 500 or the portable PC connected to the communication adapter 300, each of them is connected to the CSS center 100 via the mobile communication device. The internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can also be transmitted.
[0145]
That is, an interface unit for connecting a mobile communication device capable of data communication using radio waves such as a mobile phone or a PHS is provided in the portable PC, and the mobile communication device is connected to the interface unit.
And portable PC performs the process which transmits / receives the internal data of each image forming apparatus 401-405 between SCC centers via a mobile communication apparatus.
[0146]
Next, if a mobile communication device capable of data communication using radio waves such as a mobile phone or a PHS is connected to the PC 500 or the portable PC connected to the communication adapter 300, each of them is connected to the CSS center 100 via the mobile communication device. The internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 can also be transmitted.
[0147]
That is, the PC 500 and the portable PC are provided with an interface unit for connecting a mobile communication device capable of data communication using radio waves such as a mobile phone or PHS, and the mobile communication device is connected to the interface unit.
Then, the PC 500 or the portable PC performs processing for transmitting / receiving internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 to / from the SCC center via the mobile communication device.
[0148]
In this way, the internal data of the image forming apparatus can be exchanged with the SCC center using the mobile communication device, so that the work can be performed in an environment where wireless communication is easy to reach, and in a place where wireless communication is difficult. It is not necessary to repeat the same operation over and over, and the internal data recovery operation of the image forming apparatus can be performed efficiently.
[0149]
(2) A remote diagnosis system which is a second embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention. The same reference numerals are given to the same parts as those in FIGS. Only the features related to the invention will be described in detail.
[0150]
In this remote diagnosis system, the PC 500 is connected to a local area network (LAN) 600 and has a server function.
Further, a PC group 700 is connected to the LAN 600, and a plurality of personal computers (PCs) 701 to 709 of the PC group 700 each have a control unit realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like. It has a function of a client of the PC 500 and various functions related to the present invention which will be described later.
In this embodiment, the case where the number of PC groups 700 is nine is illustrated, but the number of PCs is not actually limited.
[0151]
In the remote diagnosis system configured as described above, the control storage unit (CPU & MEM) 330 performs various operation parameters, user setting data, and operation record data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the driver unit (DRV / RCV) 350. , Counter data, and program data are acquired and transferred to the PC 500 using the PC interface (RS-232C) 360, or the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 received from the PC 500 is a driver. To each corresponding device via the unit (DRV / RCV) 350.
[0152]
In the PC 500, a control unit (not shown) realized by a microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, and the like acquires internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the communication adapter 300. Each internal data is stored in an internal storage device and managed.
Although not shown, the internal data may be stored in an external storage device connected to the PC 500.
[0153]
Further, the internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 managed in the storage device is transferred to the communication adapter 300 as necessary, and the internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is restored. .
[0154]
That is, the PC 500 is provided with an interface unit for connecting a plurality of client terminal devices PCs 701 to 709 via a local area network (LAN) 600, and the control unit provides services such as resource sharing to each of the PCs 701 to 709. The server means for realizing the above and the means for allowing each of the PCs 701 to 709 to read and write internal data to the storage device.
[0155]
  In addition, the control unit of the PC 500 realizes a service that allows the PCs 701 to 709 to share the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.Server meansThe PC 701 to 709 function as means for permitting reading / writing of internal data to / from the storage device.
[0156]
In this remote diagnosis system, when the PC 500 is operating as a shared data server, files can be read and written from each of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client connected to the LAN 600. If internal data such as operation parameters 401 to 405 are read and stored in a file, a serviceman or a user can refer to the file as needed from any of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client. it can.
[0157]
Therefore, the PCs 701 to 709 can monitor and manage the internal data such as the operation state and software version of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 accumulated in the PC 500.
[0158]
Further, when it is desired to replace the operation data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 and internal data such as software, the PC 500 accumulates in the storage device by sending the data file from any of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client to the PC 500 of the server. Then, the data is automatically written into the corresponding image forming apparatus to restore or update the internal data.
[0159]
Furthermore, when the PC 500 has a print server function that allows each of the PCs 701 to 709 to use the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, it is necessary to install special software on the server PC 500 and the clients PC 701 to 709. The client PCs 701 to 709 can read internal data such as the operating state and version information of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 used as printing apparatuses, and manage the internal data.
[0160]
Similarly, in the case of changing the parameters of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 or replacing the program, the internal data of the image forming apparatus can be restored or updated simply by instructing the target image forming apparatus from the client PCs 701 to 709. Although it is possible to perform such operations, it is desirable to protect such operations with a password so that only a specific administrator can perform such operations.
[0161]
In this remote diagnosis system, as a connection interface means of the PC 500 provided in the communication adapter 300, the above-described LAN such as Ethernet, an interface such as USB or IEEE 1394, a wireless interface such as spread spectrum system, You may make it employ | adopt the interface based on an infrared system.
[0162]
In this way, when a PC has a server function and is connected to a LAN, it can be accessed from all client PCs. Therefore, such a server can be used even in a large-scale office on each floor. The status of all the image forming apparatuses can be grasped from a certain PC.
Further, advanced data management can be performed by using the security function and backup function of the server PC.
[0163]
On the other hand, when the server PC has the function of a printer server, the effect is particularly great in an image forming apparatus in which a copier and a network printer are combined.
In other words, by including a program for managing the operation state of the image forming apparatus in the printer driver, maintenance can be performed in the same way as general operation confirmation, and if necessary, the authority of the administrator can be set by setting the server. Can be set.
[0164]
(3) A remote diagnosis system which is a third embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is still another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention. Components common to those in FIGS. Only the features related to the present invention will be described in detail.
[0165]
In this remote diagnosis system, in the remote diagnosis system as shown in FIG. 11, a PC 500 is connected to any one of the image forming apparatuses in the image forming apparatus group 400, here, the image forming apparatus 405. The interface between the forming apparatus 405 and the PC 500 is the same as that of the communication adapter 300 and each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.
[0166]
That is, the PC 500 is connected to the image forming apparatus 405 by a local communication unit, and a control unit (not shown) of the PC 500 performs various operation parameters of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via the local communication unit. , Functioning as internal data management means for acquiring internal data such as user setting data, operation record data, counter data, and program data and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device.
[0167]
Further, the control unit of the PC 500 writes internal data managed in the storage device to each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 via local communication means, and restores and updates the internal data of the image forming apparatus. It is better to fulfill the function.
[0168]
In the remote diagnosis system configured as described above, the PC 500 directly acquires the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 through local communication means, and stores and manages it in the storage device of the own apparatus. Further, by directly writing the corresponding internal data stored in the storage device to each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, the internal data of the image forming apparatus is restored or updated.
[0169]
As the local communication means, an RS-485 interface based on the RS-485 connection standard, which is an existing interface, or an HDLC interface based on the HDLC connection standard may be used.
[0170]
In that case, since the PC 500 is connected to the image forming apparatus 405 at the final end, it is recognized as a newly added image forming apparatus when referred to from the communication adapter 300. Accordingly, as a matter of course, a unique device address is required for the PC 500 as in the case of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.
[0171]
Further, as the local communication means, a LAN interface such as Ethernet or various wireless communication means based on a local area network may be used.
[0172]
In this way, by connecting the PC 500 to any one of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 and making the connection interface the same as the interface of the communication adapter 300 and each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, There is no need to provide the communication adapter 300 with RS232-C or a wireless interface.
Therefore, there is no need to replace the already installed communication adapter 300 or change the internal function, which is advantageous for reducing the cost at the time of introduction, and is advantageous for simplifying system control.
[0173]
Furthermore, when the interface of the PC is matched with an image forming apparatus interface such as RS-485, it is necessary to mount an interface board on the PC and to connect a conversion adapter, but a longer distance than that of RS-232C is transmitted. (15m max → 500m max).
[0174]
(4) A remote diagnosis system which is the fourth embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is still another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention. Components common to those in FIGS. Only the features related to the present invention will be described in detail.
[0175]
This remote diagnosis system has substantially the same configuration as the remote diagnosis system shown in FIG. 8, but the PC 500 is connected to any one of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, and each of them is not connected via the communication adapter 300. The difference is that the internal data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is directly acquired and managed.
[0176]
That is, a PC group 700 including a plurality of client terminal devices is connected to the PC 500 via a local area network (LAN) 600, and the control unit of the PC 500 performs resource sharing or the like for each of the PCs 701 to 709 of the PC group 700. It functions as server means for realizing the service and means for allowing each of the PCs 701 to 709 to read and write internal data to the storage device.
[0177]
  In addition, the control unit of the PC 500 realizes a service that allows the PCs 701 to 709 to share the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405.Server meansThe PC 701 to 709 function as means for permitting reading / writing of internal data to / from the storage device.
[0178]
In this remote diagnosis system, when the PC 500 is operating as a shared data server of the PC group 700, files can be read and written from each of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client connected to the LAN 600. If internal data such as operation parameters of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is read and stored in a file, a serviceman or a user can read the contents of the file from any of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client as necessary. You can refer to it.
[0179]
Therefore, the PCs 701 to 709 can monitor and manage the internal data such as the operation state and software version of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 accumulated in the PC 500.
[0180]
Further, when it is desired to replace the operation data of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 and internal data such as software, the PC 500 accumulates in the storage device by sending the data file from any of the PCs 701 to 709 of the client to the PC 500 of the server. Then, the data is automatically written into the corresponding image forming apparatus to restore or update the internal data.
[0181]
Furthermore, when the PC 500 has a print server function that allows each of the PCs 701 to 709 to use the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, it is necessary to install special software on the server PC 500 and the clients PC 701 to 709. The client PCs 701 to 709 can read internal data such as the operating state and version information of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 used as printing apparatuses, and manage the internal data.
[0182]
Similarly, in the case of changing the parameters of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 or replacing the program, the internal data of the image forming apparatus can be restored or updated simply by instructing the target image forming apparatus from the client PCs 701 to 709. Although it is possible to perform such operations, it is desirable to protect such operations with a password so that only a specific administrator can perform such operations.
[0183]
In this remote diagnosis system, as an interface means for connecting the communication adapter 300, the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405, the image forming apparatus 405, the PC 500, and the PC group 700, a LAN such as Ethernet, USB, IEEE 1394, or the like. An interface, a wireless interface such as a spread spectrum method, or an interface based on an infrared method may be employed.
[0184]
In this way, when a PC has a server function and is connected to a LAN, it can be accessed from all client PCs. Therefore, even in a large-scale office on each floor, such a server can be accessed. It is possible to grasp the status of all image forming apparatuses from one PC without using a communication adapter.
Further, advanced data management can be performed by using the security function and backup function of the server PC.
[0185]
On the other hand, when the server PC has the function of a printer server, the effect is particularly great in an image forming apparatus in which a copier and a network printer are combined.
[0186]
In other words, by including a program for managing the operation state of the image forming apparatus in the printer driver, it is possible to perform maintenance directly on each image forming apparatus from the PC in the same manner as in general operation confirmation. If there is, the authority of the administrator can be set by setting the server.
[0187]
Next, if the LAN as described above is introduced as an interface means for connecting the image forming apparatus 405 to the PC 500 and the PC group 700, the communication adapter 300 functions similar to a dial-up router. Can be realized.
[0188]
First, the control unit of the PC 500 performs the function of means for transferring the internal data stored in the storage device via the communication adapter 300 to the CSS center 100.
[0189]
The PC 500 transmits the internal data of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 stored in the storage device to the CSS center 100 via the communication adapter 300 using the file transfer function, and the CSS center 100 sends the data to the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405. Internal data is received via the communication adapter 300.
[0190]
In this way, by transferring files from the PC 500 to the CSS center 100 via the LAN, internal data such as binary parameters and program files can be transferred at high speed.
[0191]
Next, the control unit of the PC 500 performs a function of means for transmitting and receiving an e-mail with an internal data file attached to the CSS center 100 via the communication adapter 300.
[0192]
Then, the PC 500 creates an e-mail attached with an internal data file of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 accumulated in the storage device, and transmits it to the CSS center 100 via the communication adapter 300 by the file transfer function.
When an e-mail attached with an internal data file of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is received from the CSS center 100, the file is stored in a storage device and managed.
[0193]
In this way, the internal data file of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 is attached to an e-mail and transmitted between the PC 500 and the CSS center 100, thereby enabling easy communication even in an environment with a firewall. become.
[0194]
Next, if the dial-up destination is not the CSS center 100 directly but an Internet provider, it is possible to connect to the CSS center 100 or a service station via the Internet, and access from anywhere in the world is possible. .
[0195]
In other words, the control unit of the PC 500 functions as means for realizing a WEB server and means for allowing the means to access and acquire internal data stored in the storage device from the CSS center 100 or the like via the Internet. .
[0196]
However, when the Internet connection is made possible, it is usually necessary to restrict access from the outside by placing a firewall that prevents the communication adapter 100 that functions as a router from entering the PC 500 of the server directly from the viewpoint of safety. is there.
In such a case, if internal data is transmitted and received as an e-mail attachment file without using FTP or HTTP, communication can be performed without going through a firewall.
[0197]
In this way, by using the Internet, it becomes possible to easily communicate directly with a place other than the CSS center, that is, the sales department or the development department, and the work range when managing the image forming apparatus is greatly expanded. be able to.
[0198]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, according to the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention, the internal data of the image forming apparatus can be temporarily and permanently saved to the outside most efficiently.
  Further, it is most efficient when managing the internal data of the image forming apparatus locally.
  Furthermore, the internal data of the image forming deviceServer functionCan be integrated and managed.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is an embodiment of an image forming apparatus management system of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a schematic configuration inside the communication adapter 300 shown in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a detailed hardware configuration of the communication adapter 300 shown in FIG. 1;
4 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the communication adapter 300 shown in FIG.
5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of an interface unit of each of the image forming apparatuses 401 to 405 illustrated in FIG.
6 is a diagram showing an RS protocol frame configuration in the private line communication procedure section (HDLC) 412 shown in FIG. 2; FIG.
7 is a diagram showing a processing sequence in the remote diagnosis system shown in FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention.
FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is still another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a remote diagnosis system which is still another embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is a functional block diagram showing a configuration example of a general remote diagnosis system.
[Explanation of symbols]
100: CSS center 200: Communication line
300: Communication adapter 310, 311: Line control unit (NCU)
320, 321: Modem part (MODEM)
330, 413: Control accumulation unit (CPU & MEM)
331: CPU 332: RAM
333: ROM 334: RTC
335: LED / SW
340, 341, 412: Local line communication procedure part (HDLC)
350, 351, 411: Driver part (DRV / RCV)
360, PC interface 361: S-PORT
370: Application program
380: RS protocol program
390: Driver unit 391: MODEM driver
392: RS-232C driver
393: HDLC driver 400: Image forming apparatus group
401 to 405: Image forming apparatus 410: Interface unit
500, 701, 709: PC
600: LAN 700: PC group

Claims (18)

An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
The communication adapter device is provided with a connection interface means with a terminal device,
Connecting the terminal device to the connection interface means;
Internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter device and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device in the terminal device, and the image via the communication adapter device An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: an internal data restoring means for writing internal data stored in the storage device to the forming apparatus to restore the internal data of the image forming apparatus. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1 .
An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the terminal apparatus is a portable terminal apparatus. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1 .
Server means for connecting a plurality of client terminal devices to the terminal device via a local area network and providing services to the client terminal devices, and an internal to the storage device for the client terminal devices An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: means for permitting reading and writing of data. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1 .
Server means for connecting a plurality of client terminal devices to the terminal device via a local area network, and sharing the image forming device with each client terminal device; and for each client terminal device And an image forming apparatus management system. The image forming apparatus management system further comprises means for permitting reading and writing of internal data to and from the storage device. The image forming apparatus management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the connection interface means is a data transfer means based on a USB or IEEE 1394 interface standard. The image forming apparatus management system according to any one of claims 1 to 4 ,
An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the connection interface means is a wireless data transfer means. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 6 .
An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the data transfer means is a data transfer means based on a spread spectrum system. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 6 .
An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the data transfer means is data transfer means based on an infrared system. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 2 .
Means for connecting a mobile communication device capable of radio wave data communication to the portable terminal device, and transmitting / receiving the internal data to / from the center device via the mobile communication device connected to the means An image forming apparatus management system characterized by that. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by a communication unit based on a local area network connection ,
The terminal device is provided with internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server. An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by a communication unit based on a local area network connection ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, Server means for realizing a service for each client terminal device, means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage device, means for realizing a WEB server, and An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus via the Internet. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by a communication unit based on a local area network connection ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, A server means for realizing a service for sharing the image forming apparatus with each client terminal apparatus, a means for allowing each client terminal apparatus to read / write internal data to / from the storage apparatus, and a WEB server An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that an internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming device and the communication adapter device, or the connection between the image forming device and the terminal device is a connection by Ethernet ,
The terminal device is provided with internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server. An image forming apparatus management system, wherein internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming device and the communication adapter device, or the connection between the image forming device and the terminal device is a connection by Ethernet ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, Server means for realizing a service for each client terminal device, means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage device, means for realizing a WEB server, and An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus via the Internet. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming device and the communication adapter device, or the connection between the image forming device and the terminal device is a connection by Ethernet ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, A server means for realizing a service for sharing the image forming apparatus with each client terminal apparatus, a means for allowing each client terminal apparatus to read / write internal data to / from the storage apparatus, and a WEB server An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that an internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by wireless communication means based on a local area network connection ,
The terminal device is provided with internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device, and means for realizing a WEB server. An image forming apparatus management system, wherein internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by wireless communication means based on a local area network connection ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, Server means for realizing a service for each client terminal device, means for allowing each client terminal device to read and write internal data to the storage device, means for realizing a WEB server, and An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that the internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center apparatus via the Internet. An image forming apparatus, a communication adapter apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus, a center apparatus connected to the communication adapter apparatus via a communication line, and remotely controlling and managing the image forming apparatus via the communication adapter apparatus In an image forming apparatus management system comprising:
A terminal device is connected to the image forming apparatus;
The connection between the image forming apparatus and the communication adapter apparatus, or the connection between the image forming apparatus and the terminal apparatus is a connection by wireless communication means based on a local area network connection ,
An internal data management means for acquiring internal data of the image forming apparatus and storing and managing the internal data in a storage device and a plurality of client terminal devices are connected to the terminal device via a local area network, A server means for realizing a service for sharing the image forming apparatus with each client terminal apparatus, a means for allowing each client terminal apparatus to read / write internal data to / from the storage apparatus, and a WEB server An image forming apparatus management system characterized in that an internal data stored in the storage device can be accessed and acquired from the center device via the Internet.

Images