JPH04329752A - Communication system of alpha-numeric of pixel base with facsimile input interface - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To receive data subjected to pixel processing from a facsimile-type equipment and to provide an output of the data to other equipment. CONSTITUTION: A scanning facsimile equipment 42 is provided with a modem 32 which interfaces a facsimile equipment 22, and an other equipment interface that interfaces a computer 20. A pixel graphic input logic 44 is connected to the modem 32, and the facsimile equipment 42 is also provided with a logic 48 that responds with an interface signal to an input signal from the facsimile equipment 22, receives pixel processed data from the facsimile equipment thereby and provides an output of the data to the computer 20 through the other equipment interface and with a page memory 14 that receives and stores the pixel processed data and provides an output of the data to the other equipment interface.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

0001

TECHNICAL FIELD This invention relates to a method and apparatus for inputting and transmitting alphanumeric characters, and more particularly to receiving pixelated data from a facsimile-type device and transmitting this data to another device. It relates to a scanning fax machine that outputs and uses. The present invention includes modem means for interfacing with a facsimile-type device. Other device interface means are also provided for interfacing with other devices. Facsimile input logic means is connected to the modem means and interfaces and responds to input signals from the facsimile-type device, thereby causing the facsimile-type device to transmit pixelated data to the scanning fax machine. Logic means are also provided for receiving pixelated data from the facsimile type device by the modem means and for outputting this data to another device via the other device interface means.

0002

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION Traditionally, the input, transmission, and reception of alphanumeric characters has generally been an important element in communication technology. Communication in written form is essential to daily life. Accordingly, as electronic devices capable of creating and transmitting documents have appeared, they have quickly gained general acceptance. In the past, the sender wrote the contents of the message by hand, and the courier carried it. Later, the role of courier was assumed by the simple and low-cost postal service. The advent of typewriters made writing faster and easier to read. However, there is no improvement in speeding up transmission and reception.

[0003] With the advent of telegrams, transmission from one point to another has become faster, but the procedure is complicated and costly. That is, to send a telegram, one goes to the nearest telegraph station and verbally communicates the contents of the message, which is then sent to the receiving station in so-called Morse code. Here the signal is translated into text and handed to the recipient. Later, communications between the sender and the transmitting station, and between the receiving station and the recipient, began to be communicated by telephone. Very recently, so-called telex has started to be used in companies and the like. With this telex, users input alphanumeric characters on the keyboard and convert them into a transmission code by punching holes in paper tape. The recipient is then called on the recipient's telex telephone number. Once the receiver is received and connected, the paper tape is read and the code is sent to the receiver. The receiver also automatically translates the transmission and types it out in alphanumeric characters. The operator does not need to have any knowledge of the code used. Telex has long been a staple in business communications, and in fact continues to be used in a wide range of fields.

[0004] In recent years, small and inexpensive computers and microprocessors equipped with chips have appeared, and communication technology has made great progress in two respects. That is, document creation and document transmission. Document production has been greatly improved with the introduction of computer-based character processing systems (and more recently desktop publishing systems). Document transmission was also improved with the introduction of computer-based facsimile (fax) systems. According to character processing systems, alphanumeric characters are first entered into a computer by means of a typewriter-type keyboard and stored in so-called ASCII codes. In this ASCII code, each character has eight binary bits (1 and /
or 0, etc.) and is called a "byte". Once entered, your computer can display, edit, spell-check, automatically center or align your submissions, print in any size and font, and has many other features. It is also possible to do so.

A major constraint on character processing systems is the time required to pre-enter alphanumeric character data. Computer keyboards allow rapid typing, but they only receive data as quickly as a fast typist can type. In view of this limitation, and to reduce the hassle of data typing, optical character readers were introduced. This operation is illustrated at 10 in the simplified block diagram of FIG. Early optical character readers were large, stand-alone, and used rotatable read heads to scan documents. When paper is input into the reader, it is bent into a cylindrical shape and passed line by line through a read head where an optical scanning device moves over the paper from left to right. Each scanned line is resolved into multiple locations on the paper, and at each location the read head outputs a "1" or "0" to indicate whether the location is black or white. These dots on paper are called pixels. The paper is then scanned, creating data similar to that used on television screens. More recently, the large, complex rotary scan heads of earlier optical character readers have been replaced by linear charge couplings, such as those used in small, lightweight television cameras.
rge coupled device). However, little improvement was seen. As the paper moves under the pixel scanner 12 or as the pixel scanner 12 moves over the paper, a vertically scanned line outputs a series of binary data indicating the state of each pixel location on the line. do. This series of binary data is input to page memory 14. Therefore, page memory 1
4, we end up with a pixel diagram of the scanned page. All alphanumeric character data and pictorial data are converted to dot patterns. Driven by a computer (currently primarily resident in microprocessor chips), the data in the page memory 14 is scanned from top to bottom or from left to right, reading a fixed pattern, i.e. alphanumeric characters, and converting them into ASCII notation. Convert to This optical character reading (hereinafter referred to as OCR) process is performed by the OCR logic 16, and the ASCII characters are stored in the ASCII memory 18.
to be memorized. The ASCII characters in memory 18 can be entered into a character processing program in computer 20, for example, as if being typed on a keyboard.

[0006] Japanese kanji are numerous and cannot be written like simple alphanumeric characters in a computer, so the first fax machine invented by the Japanese was an optical character reader as shown in Figure 2. The same equipment is used. However, it does not convert pixels to ASCII codes. The fax machine 22 scans the pixel scanner 1 at the final point of transmission.
2 to create a series of binary data identical to that in memory 14 of FIG. 1, ie, a pixel representation of the scanned document. At fax machine 22, this data is then output by output logic 24 as a series of binary data representing pixel graphics data. This series of data is sent over standard telephone line 25 to receiving fax machine 22 where input logic 26 receives the binary pixel data to drive graphics printer 28. This graphic printer 28 is a dot-based printer (such as a dot matrix printer or a laser printer) that creates characters as a series of dots or pixels in a graphic mode, so-called "
ASCI found in "Daisy Wheel" printers, etc.
The characters are not printed at the same time as the I code is received. Thus, at each pixel location on the output page, printer 28 creates either a black dot or a white dot (ie, no dot) based on the representation on the pixelated binary data sent.

[0007] In recent years, software and hardware have become available, and the large base of personal computers (PCs) currently in use allows for the connection of computers to standard fax machines. Such conventional technology (generally known as "P/C FAX")
) is shown in Figure 3. Meanwhile, the standard fax machine 22 with logic 30 receives and transmits input data from the scanned pixel scanner 12 over the telephone line 25 and receives binary data from the telephone line 25;
This drives the graphic printer 28. Also, a graphics printer 28 and an external pixel scanner 1
2' is connected to the personal computer 20. Enabled (virtua)
l) or P/C fax machine is connected to telephone line 2.
5 and an internal or external modem 32 connected to the computer's software, and a P/CFAX program 33 embedded in the computer's software, generally indicated by box 34. Generally, the software 34 is, for example, a desktop publishing software 36.
, thereby creating a document containing alphanumeric and/or pictorial representations of graphical representations in page memory 14 . In use, when fax machine 22 sends a facsimile document to computer 20, P/C fax program 33 answers the call through modem 32, enters the binary pixel data into page memory 14, and extracts the binary pixel data from there. The data is output to graphics printer 28. This also applies to other computer graphic outputs, such as those created by the desktop publishing software 36. To send a facsimile document, the document is stored in the page memory 14 using the pixel scanner 12' alone, or in conjunction with the desktop publishing software 36 and the pixel scanner 12', or by using the desktop publishing software 36 alone ("
(sometimes referred to as "effective fax"). When the document to be transmitted is ready, the P/C fax program 33 calls the fax machine 22 through the modem 32 and transmits the contents of the page memory 14 in a form suitable for the fax machine 22.

[0008] OCR software that can be used on a personal computer converts data scanned from the external pixel scanner 12' into ASCII codes using a character processing program, etc.
It is also worth noting that it is available on the market. For these reasons,
OCR software 38 is incorporated into software 34 of computer 20. Although it cannot be used as part of a P/C fax program, it is possible to convert documents from fax communications received by a P/C fax system into ASCII codes for other purposes in the computer, such as for archival purposes. There is hope in the prior art literature that this will become possible in the not-too-distant future.

As shown in FIG. 4, at least one Japanese fax machine 22' sold in Japan under the trade name CANON is equipped with an RS-232 type computer interface 40 and is compatible with the standard fax machine 22. It is connected to a telephone line 25 for sending and receiving. The fax machine 22' also connects the computer 20 to an RS-232 type interface 40 to enable the use of a pixel scanner 12 and a graphics printer 28 located within the fax machine 22' as additional external devices. . The pixel scanner 12 and graphics printer 28 are provided within the fax machine 22' because the computer 20 of FIG.
By the same method as using 2'. Appropriate software for computers to take advantage of the unique features of this fax machine is available on the market. Similarly, an "advanced" fax machine with special features that interfaces directly with a personal computer is disclosed in Koshiishi's US Patent No. 4,652,999.
3 (transferred to Ricoh Co., Ltd.). However, it should be noted that these are not standard fax machines, and standard ones cannot be used.

A final point regarding the prior art regarding the transmission and reception of alphanumeric characters in communication systems is that
In the cryptographic technology of yesteryear, only basic approaches can be taken because confidentiality is important. Although this technology is sometimes applied to business as it is fundamentally secretive, it is most commonly used in military communications. Since World War II, there have been many stories of people being able to read the enemy's actions and change the course of the war by knowing in advance the content of enemy transmissions that were supposed to have been secretly sent by ``reading through the codes.'' In such communication systems, since an enemy can interrupt the communication, the codes and symbols must be understood only by the person concerned who has been taught how to decipher them. Early code systems were impossible for humans to decipher, but later computers made it possible to quickly and easily process large numbers of characters and symbols and discover their meanings, or decipher them. However, prior art alphanumeric character transmission remains dominated by characters. That is, when the letter A is typed on the sender's keyboard, it is converted to an ASCII code that matches it. It is then expressed numerically, calculated based on a cryptographic system (for example, by arranging pseudo-random numbers next to each other), and then transmitted. At the receiving end, the same pseudo-random sequence starting from the same starting point must be displayed so that the correct number can be subtracted from the input sequence to create a sequence representing the original message. Thus, no matter how difficult the encrypted content is for an enemy to decipher, it is not impossible to decipher it, especially with the help of the latest supercomputers.

[0011]

[Problems to be Solved by the Invention] As mentioned above, conventional facsimile machines require special functions to be added in order to interface with a standard computer. Machines were expensive. Furthermore, there is still no improvement in communication systems that place importance on confidentiality.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been devised to solve the above problems and provides a method and apparatus capable of inputting graphic data provided by a pixel scanning device of a facsimile machine into a standard computer. It is intended to. Additionally, the present invention provides a method for providing a standard computer with a series of A
It is also an object to provide a method and apparatus for inputting SCII strings. It is also an object to provide a method and apparatus that allows a standard computer to be entered with a series of ASCII characters using a local or remote standard facsimile machine as an optical character reader. Furthermore, it is an object to provide a method and a device that allows ultra-reliable transmission of alphanumeric character strings. Other objects and advantages of the present invention will become apparent from the detailed description taken in conjunction with the drawings that follow.

[0013]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION To achieve these objectives, a standard facsimile machine is enabled to scan a document and input the resulting pixelated data into a standard computer. The scanning facsimile apparatus of the present invention includes modem means for interfacing with the facsimile machine, computer interface means for interfacing with the computer, and an interface response to an input signal from the facsimile machine, thereby to the facsimile machine,
facsimile input logic means connected to modem means for transmitting pixelated data resulting from scanning a document to a scanning fax machine; and receiving pixelated data from the facsimile machine by said modem means; It is characterized in that logic means are provided for outputting it to the computer via the interface means.

In an embodiment, page memory means are also provided for receiving pixelated data from a facsimile-type device and outputting it to other device interface means. In a variant embodiment of the invention, the contents of the page memory means are scanned from top to bottom and from left to right and the alphanumeric characters identified are converted into a series of binary codes for identification by other devices; Character identification means is provided for outputting the binary code to another device via another device interface means. In this embodiment, the pixelated data is positioned in front of the character identification means in a vertically arranged column, and the character identification means scans the column of data horizontally to identify the alphanumeric characters contained therein. Orientation means are provided for searching. Additionally, pixelated data from a facsimile-type device may be conveyed directly to another device in its pixelated form or first matched to alphanumeric characters identified by character identification means contained therein. Selection means are also provided for allowing the user to select between converting to a series of binary codes.

In other embodiments, the facsimile-type device is of a local type placed near other devices, and a pseudo switchboard means is provided between the facsimile-type device and the modem means to provide a telephone connection. Simulate the function of the central switch board and the connecting lines connected to it. Thus, a local facsimile-type device can make an outgoing connection by calling a scanning fax machine. In this embodiment, the following three switch means are preferably provided which are connected to the telephone line. The first is one that connects the modem means and the telephone line, and the one that connects the local facsimile type device and the telephone line, the one that connects the local facsimile type device and the pseudo switchboard means, and the one that connects the pseudo switchboard means and the modem means. It is something to do. This allows a local facsimile-type device to call and make a transmission connection to a scanning fax machine.

In yet another embodiment, a local facsimile-type device located near the other device and the modem means is provided with shift buffer means for connecting the local facsimile-type device to a telephone line; and sends signals in two directions between the telephone line and the telephone line. The shift buffer means includes an output tap for sampling data passing therethrough, a control input for receiving a signal to abort the signal passing therethrough, and logic means for connecting the output to the control input. We are prepared. This logic means can delay the transmission from the facsimile-type device for the necessary processing time. The output tap is connected as an input to a logic means such that while the local facsimile-type device receives input from the telephone line, the scanning fax machine reads data and sends it to the local facsimile-type device, which forwards the data to other devices. can do.

The scanning fax machine may be provided with display print logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a printer for printing, and function selection means for controlling the operation of the display print logic means. It is also possible to provide a dot printer connected to the display print logic means, or a case housing the scanning fax machine and printer together. The invention further includes display print logic means for outputting and viewing data from the page memory means on a pixel display, and a pixel display connected to the display print logic means and housed within the case. good. The home communication system includes a scroll display logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a television screen and displaying the data on the screen, and a function selection means for controlling the operation of the scroll display logic means. It may be provided.

The present invention can be utilized as part of an apparatus and related method for the transmission and reception of alphanumeric characters, comprising transmitter means connected to a transmission medium for transmitting a transmission; The means includes a character input means for inputting a first series of alphanumeric characters indicating the content of the transmission, and a graphic input means for inputting a first series of alphanumeric characters, each consisting of a two-dimensional region of pixels on a two-dimensional page of graphic data. Receiver means comprising pixel conversion means for converting into a display and conveyance means for transmitting the two-dimensional page of graphic data through the transmission medium and connected to the transmission medium for receiving and deciphering the transmission. receiving means for receiving a two-dimensional page of graphic data through a transmission medium; scanning the two-dimensional page of graphic data from top to bottom and from left to right; , character identification means for providing a sequence of decipherable codes corresponding to the alphanumeric characters after identification.

[0019]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS The present invention for inputting scanned standard fax machine input into a standard computer is illustrated in the simplified block diagram of FIG. As will be clear from the following description, the Scan-Faxtm
・Trade name) provides cost benefits to small and medium-sized businesses since there is no need to purchase optical scanners or OCR equipment. In addition to a fax machine, many of these small business users also have personal computers with word processing and/or desktop publishing capabilities. The present invention can provide cost benefits to users by providing a device that does not include an optical scanner or OCR device.

As is clear from the above description, the scanning fax machine of the present invention is an external stand-alone device, such as a modem or a P/C fax machine, and is capable of scanning fax machines without exceeding the spirit of the present invention. The machine can also be installed on a printed line card installed inside a computer.

As shown in FIG. 5, scanning fax machine 42
includes pixel graphics input logic 44, which, like the fax machine described above, includes:
A series of binary pixel data is input into page memory 14. In an embodiment, scanning fax machine 42 receives input from anywhere to pixel graphics logic 44. The scanning fax machine 42 is also connected to an internal modem 32 which is connected to the telephone line 25 and receives input from a remote standard fax machine 22 or a remote Key-Fax machine 46. The key fax machine 46 is
United States patent application “Keyboard for Facsimile Transmission System” (application number 254) by the same inventor as this application
, 925, filed Oct. 7, 1988), the reader is referred to in detail. scanning fax machine 42
is arranged to receive input from a local standard fax machine 22, as will be described in more detail below. Logic 48 further includes an OCR program 38 that optionally converts the contents of page memory 14 into ASCII codes consistent with the alphanumeric character contents.
is provided. This logic 48 is provided to interface with a standard computer 20 (through a series of ports) and to transmit the contents of page memory 14 (as pixel data or ASCII data) to the computer using well-known techniques. The techniques and hardware necessary to transmit data to a computer as an external device are well known and will not be discussed as they are not novel. Similarly, a description of the program and logic related to the optical character recognition device will be omitted. These techniques have been developed and refined over the past 10-15 years and are understandable in any form, and in many cases even obvious in handwriting. All programs are available on the market for $2-300. If one wishes to implement the present invention including OCR functionality, one should take advantage of these prior art (which does not constitute novelty of the present invention), and these OCR logic and You should get the program.

FIG. 6 shows a scanning facsimile machine 4 of this embodiment.
2 is shown in detail. The scanning fax machine 42 of the present invention is expected to retail for $200 to $300, but is available in standard 8-1/2
A CCD-based scanner capable of scanning a 1-inch sheet of paper with sufficient resolution (i.e., dots or pixels per inch vertically and horizontally) and capable of optical character recognition based on an OCR program. Currently about 2
The price is 000 dollars. The scanning fax machine 42 has a pair of modular telephone jacks 52 and an RS-232 on the side wall.
It is housed in a case 50 equipped with a socket 54. The RS-232 (ie, serial) interface connected to the computer 20 is preferably serial, but can of course be changed to a parallel interface or the like.

Suitable computer interface logic 56 of the prior art is connected to RS-232 socket 54 to transfer the contents of page memory 14 to a suitable cable 5.
8 (series or parallel, whichever you choose).

One of the pair of modular telephone jacks 52 is connected to two contacts of a three-position slide switch 60. The local telephone line 25 is connected to a jack 5 as shown.
It is connected to 2 with a plug. Another modular telephone jack 52 is connected to the other contact of the switch 60 and the local fax machine 22 is plugged into this jack 52. The other two contacts of the switch 60 are connected to the internal modem 32, and the other one contact of the switch 60 is connected to the pseudo switch board 62. Power is provided by a conventional type power supply (not shown for simplicity) suitable for such low energy devices. It is often preferred to connect the transformer directly to the wall and use low voltage wiring to plug and jack each device. Rechargeable or replaceable batteries may be installed. Modem 32 is connected and input to fax input logic 64. Fax input logic 64 is connected to scanning fax logic 66, which in turn is connected to OCR logic 68. This OCR logic 68 includes the OCR program 38 described above. Scanning fax logic 66 further connects to mode selection switch 70, which allows the user to select scanning fax machine 4.
2 can select the mode in which it operates. (e.g. OCR or pixel/graphics mode).

When the switch 60 is in position A in FIG.
Telephone line 25 is connected directly to local fax machine 22, which performs standard facsimile sending and receiving operations. When switch 60 is in position C, telephone line 25
is connected to internal modem 32. In this mode,
Scanning fax machine 42 responds to input signals from telephone line 25 and communicates with remote fax machine 22 (or key fax machine 46) in a manner similar to that found in transmitting devices, i.e., proper "handshaking" as in the prior art.
Interface by providing columns etc. That is, rather than inputting data from a remote fax machine or printing it as graphic data as is normal, scanning fax logic 66 inputs it into page memory 14 and then outputs it through RS-232 port 54. decimal (i.e. pixels/graphics)
Either output it as data to the computer 20, or first convert it into an ASCII character code by OCR conversion. Logic 66 may be caused to discard data associated with the first and last of the 1/2 inch input data seen. This is because this data is typically added by the fax machine 22 at the time of transmission, such as transmission number, time, date, etc.

When switch 60 is in B, local fax machine 22 is connected to computer 20 via scanning fax machine 42. The local fax machine 22 can thus be used as a scanner, inputting graphic (binary/pixel) information or OCR-derived ASCII data in the same manner described above as the remote device (fax machine 22 or key fax machine 46). However, at a local fax machine 22 connected to a scanning fax machine 42, transmitting data from the fax machine 22 is
This is not possible without special equipment. In such a device, when switch 60 is in position B, pseudo switch board 62 connects local fax machine 22 and modem 32.
is established between. A flow chart of the logic for pseudo switch board 62 is shown in FIG. The pseudo switch board 62 functions to allow the central telephone switch and connecting telephone lines to provide telephone connections between the local fax machine 22 and other fax machines. When the handset of the local fax machine 22 goes "off-hook," the pseudo switchboard 62 senses this and applies an appropriate voltage to the telephone line 72 connecting the local fax machine 22 and the pseudo switchboard 62, causing the telephone line 72 to receive an appropriate voltage. Power is applied to cause the local fax machine 22 to make a dial tone. When the user dials a series of numbers into the local fax machine 22, they are all translated by the pseudo switchboard 62,
Sending the appropriate call to the scanning fax machine 42, the pseudo switchboard 62 also provides a ring signal on the telephone line 74 connecting the pseudo switchboard 62 and the modem 32, and sends a ring signal to the modem 32 in the same manner as answering a telephone call. "response"
let When pseudo switchboard 62 senses that modem 32 has received a signal, the applied ring signal is stopped, telephone line 72 is connected directly to telephone line 74, and scanning begins and remote input is performed in the manner previously described. Pseudo switchboard 62 continues to control telephone lines 72 and 74;
When it senses that the handset has been hung up or is "on hook",
Telephone lines 72 and 74 are disconnected and pseudo switch board 62
returns to its initial state and waits for the next "call" from local fax machine 22 while switch 60 is in position B. If switch 60 is moved from position B, the pseudo switch board 62 logic considers this to be an off-hook condition and the connection is broken as described above.

FIG. 11 shows a basic scanning fax machine 42.
This shows a version with some modifications and additional functions. The scanning fax machine 42' includes a local fax machine 22 and a telephone line 25 connected at opposite ends of a controlled first-in, first-out (FIFO) buffer 96. The path that data takes between local fax machine 22 and telephone line 25 via buffer 96 can be controlled by fax input logic 64 via control line 98. Since this circuit is a prior art, detailed explanation will be omitted here. This allows fax input logic 64 (not local fax machine 22) to control the speed at which lines of pixel data are input to local fax machine 22. By periodically freezing the line that receives the signal sent from the local fax machine 22 through the telephone line 25 to the transmitting fax machine, the fax input logic 64 controls the scanning fax machine 42'.
You can give processing time to other logic within. This will be explained later. Data passing through buffer 96 is sampled and input by fax input logic 64 via telephone line 100. Accordingly, scanning fax machine 42' can be coupled in series between standard fax machine 22 and computer 20 as described above. When fax machine 22 receives a facsimile in the normal manner, scanning fax machine 42' receives the alphanumeric characters in the data pixelated by OCR techniques as described above and converts them into ASCII codes that computer 20 can process. Convert.

Modified scanning fax machine 42' of FIG.
includes a display print logic 102, a function selection block 104, a printer 106, and a display 108. These additional parts can be used with or without connection to the computer 20. These additional parts can be added to a basic scanning fax machine with a modem 32, such as the scanning fax machine 42'' shown in FIG. The result is an inexpensive receive-only fax machine for receiving alphanumeric character data.Additionally, this method provides a key fax machine for two-way facsimile communication devices that can interface with standard fax machines and that can send and receive alphanumeric characters. Display print logic 102 receives input from page memory 14. Function selection block 104 then causes logic 102 to display messages in a scrolling mode on display 108. This display 108 is an inexpensive For example, a 3-line, 24-character LCD panel for use in larger devices such as those used in laptop computers.
One of the CD panels may be used in a larger display capable of displaying approximately half a page at a time, without appreciably increasing cost. Similarly, one of the currently available compact dot thermal printers may be used in printer 106 as a cost-effective version of the present invention. Note that an ink jet printing device is used in a relatively expensive and sophisticated version of the present invention. It is clear that such a device can also be used for electronic mail. In this case, page memory 1
The page memory 14 can also be expanded to store multiple pages and/or to store many short messages of one page or less. The printer may be omitted. When sending a message, the sender types the message through a standard fax machine or a key fax machine. This content is received by the scanning fax machine 42'', converted to ASCII, and stored for later modification. Just like a telephone, it lights up an indicator, such as an LED 107, to alert the recipient. The recipient may then use function selection device 104 to scroll to the waiting message.
scanning fax machine 42" can be adapted to cause the ASCII codes in expanded page memory 14 to be retransmitted over telephone line 25 to a remote location. This retransmission uses prior art logic to This allows for corrections to be made remotely by a person.

Finally, the scanning fax machine 42' of FIG.
A simple receiving and display-only facsimile machine can be created by using the present invention. As in the scanning fax machine 42'' of FIG.
It also interfaces with a remote input fax machine and stores multiple inputs (generally less than one page) loaded in expanded page memory 14. However, no OCR logic is provided at this time and the contents of the memory 14 are pixelated data stored similar to a telephone. Similar to the previous embodiment, an LED message reception indicator 107 is also provided, and this indicator 1
07 is lit by the scanning fax logic 66 when a message is received. Printer 106 and display 108 have been omitted in this embodiment, and display print logic 102 has been replaced with scrolling display logic 110, which has partially similar functionality. The scrolling display logic 110 is connected to the function selection device 104 and receives operator input. Rather than printing or displaying the contents of memory 14, the scrolling display logic 110 is connected to a television 112 in the conventional signal input manner, allowing the inexpensive home computers of long ago to display the contents in place of a monitor. The contents of the memory 14 are displayed on the screen of the television 112 in the same way as when a television was used for the purpose of the present invention. Since such devices are well known in the prior art, a detailed description thereof will be omitted. When the scanning fax machine 42''' of FIG. 14 is connected to a telephone line, visible e-mail can be sent to
(e.g., fax machine, key fax machine, PC/fax machine, etc.) to scanning fax machine 42'''. As shown in this figure, for example, if you work in a location where faxing is available, you can leave a message on your home scanning fax machine 42'''. Of course, you can also send pictures. When the person returns home, he finds that the LCD display 107 is lit, turns on the television 112, and uses the function selection input device 104 to cause the scroll display logic 110 to output a message to the screen of the television 112. The connection between the television 112 and the scrolling display logic 110 is described in US Pat.
Application number 096, 929 Application date September 15, 1987
It can also be made wireless by using technology from Japan.

Accordingly, as will be apparent from the foregoing description and drawings, the present invention provides an effective and low cost method for entering graphical and OCR input into standard computers. , thereby eliminating the need for expensive and special equipment. Next, the ultra-secure communication system of the present invention will be explained in detail.

As previously mentioned, conventional transmission systems for alphanumeric data transmission generally use one byte of binary data for each character, and then add a pseudo-random sequence of numbers that is subtracted at the end of the reception and first Plays the entered number sequence and prints the original alphanumeric characters. As can be seen from the description of the scanning fax machine operating in OCR mode from a remote location,
In communication systems based on this technology, letters do not remain in the form of numbers. That is, there is not one 8-bit binary digit representing each character in the message. Each character is converted to a dot or pixel pattern in a graphics area, which is sent as a series of binary bits, each representing each pixel in the graphics area. At the receiving end, the graphics area is regenerated and scanned with optical character recognition logic to read the character pattern therefrom and regenerate the original alphanumeric character. This type of text transmission method is perfect as an ultra-secure transmission system that can never be ``deciphered'' even if the transmission is obtained without permission. Before being encrypted, transmissions from such systems can be decoded as soon as it is known that the transmission is a facsimile transmission. However, by encrypting the transmitted data in the only way that can be processed by that data alone, it can be rendered unreproducible without suitable equipment. A system and method used alone or in combination for such encryption will be described below.

The functionality of the basic elements of such a secure transmission system is illustrated in the simplified block diagram of FIG. This system consists of a transmitter 76 and a receiver 78. Of course, in a two-way transmission system, there would be a transmitter 76 and a receiver 78 at either location. However, in this figure, only one side is shown for simplicity. If the document containing the transmission to be entered is typed on paper and, within the spirit of the transmission system of the invention, is scanned by a pixel scanner used in a fax machine in the manner described above; , a KeyFax type input method (described in detail in the aforementioned patent application by the inventors of the present invention) is preferred at the message input portion of the transmitter 76. As shown in FIG. 7, an alphanumeric keyboard 80 is connected to a key fax generator 82. Accordingly, a series of characters entered by keyboard 80 is converted into a dot pattern by key fax generator 82 and stored sequentially in input memory 84. To convey the cipher as desired, the pixels of input memory 84 are moved to output memory 86 scrambled according to a well-known scrambling algorithm by pixel scrambling output logic 87;
It is output by modem 32 through transmission medium 88 as a series of binary/pixel bits. Transmission medium 88 may be any available transmission medium, such as telegraphy, microwave, fiber optics, wireless telegraphy, etc. Similarly, conventional interface protocols or specialized ones may be used to prevent code breaking. This point will be explained in more detail later. The input memory 84 and the output memory 86 may be the same memory, but it is preferable that they be separate memories for their respective processing purposes. In addition, input memory 8
4 and/or output memory 86 may be large enough to handle a full page, or may be of slightly smaller capacity, depending on the degree and type of pixel scrambling applied. Regarding this point, in the US patent application ``Facsimile System with Reliable Transmission'' (Application No. 175, 947, filed March 31, 1988) by the inventor of the present invention, a pixel type facsimile system for reliable transmission is described. Several methods of spatially scrambling data have been described.

At the receiving end, receiver 78 transmits the message via modem 32 to pixel input logic 89.
The data is inputted to the input memory 84' via. From here, the ASCII code for the character consisting of the message is restored based on the correct algorithm, OCR scanned, and output by the pixel restoration and output logic 90 to the ASCII memory 92, which is the ASCII code of the prior art. This can be used in a manner suitable for character display and printing technology.

In addition to spatially scrambling the pixel data, a method that makes it more difficult (though not completely impossible) to reconstruct the scrambled data into a meaningful representation of the original message is to Several other techniques can also be applied. To crack a code, you generally create permutations of some kind of understood pattern and then see if any of the permutations make sense. In the secure communication system of the present invention, pixels consisting of symbols representing characters are scrambled, so that a person intervening in the transmission first restores the scrambled pixels to the original character state and then uses the traditional decryption method. must be applied. If the original characters are normally unintelligible, the first step (ie, reproducing the picture of the characters in the encoded message) becomes even more difficult. Therefore, other symbols may be used instead of normal alphanumeric characters in ultra-secure transmission systems. This system does not cause any harm to legitimate recipients. The OCR identification code is A, B,
It is only necessary to transform each pattern corresponding to C, etc. so that it can be identified. Therefore, the form # may be identified as A, and A may be replaced with an ASCII code. Similarly, the original message can also undergo character transformation by applying a pseudo-random number sequence instead of, or in addition to, a symbol substitution scheme as described above. . Thus, for example, the word CAT is first converted to TYP, then #%&, then pixelated and spatially scrambled for transmission. Thus, someone who receives an unauthorized series of bits can restore it to its original state, play #%&, replace it with TYP, and from TYP write the original word C.
There is almost no possibility that AT can decipher it, and it is almost impossible.

As alluded to above, in military systems, for example, data confidentiality is more important than obtaining the desired hardware, and in addition to or in addition to the techniques described above, data confidentiality may be more important than obtaining the desired hardware. Special communication algorithms can also be used instead. It is clear that the techniques described above can be utilized in conventional facsimile-type devices, either as part of a separate interface or incorporated into the device. Similarly, scrambling and undoing can be done by so-called "flying", which processes the data in memory but does not actually print it out. Alternatively, the scrambled pixel data can be stored, printed out by a standard fax machine for physical transmission, and later rescanned and decoded.

For non-standard graphics types, the application of the present invention allows communication systems to be up to the latest level of security. In traditional facsimile systems, standard 8-1/2 x 11-inch paper
It is scanned from top to bottom and left to right at a conversion of approximately 200 dots per inch. Thus, with half an inch of margin around it, the data is transmitted in the form of 2,000 lines of 1,500 pixels each separated and controlled by well-known delimiters such as end of line, line skip, end of page, etc. Knowing this, an unwarranted recipient can at least pin it out to see if there is anything decipherable when the data is located in one place at the same time in a two-dimensional representation. If the pattern is deciphered,
The first step in solving this puzzle has been completed.

A military embodiment of the invention, with particular emphasis on data confidentiality with respect to transmission, uses the key fax generator 82 of FIG. 7 to scramble and restore it to its original state. In this embodiment, which uses the method of ``Fry'', the following method is used. First, the KeyFax method uses a preset character setting set. That is, when key A on keyboard 80 is pressed, key fax generator 82 replaces A with a pixelated (i.e., two-dimensional representation made up of dots) into the appropriate location in memory 84 . Each letter is a constant size and has the same typeface (O
CR-A, etc.) is selected. These characters are standard O
This can be understood without being confused by CR logic. Therefore, the output of key fax generator 82 is:
A series of pixelated characters occupying a fixed number of "columns" of pixels as shown in FIG. To simplify transmission and character generation, a pixel response is provided in the KeyFax patent application. That is, 1 inch conversion 2
A unique row of dots of 00 dots is responded n times vertically (
i.e. repeated), and the horizontal dot is responded to m times. Therefore, the data sent is 200 per inch conversion.
At X200 dots, a character containing a series of messages in pixels is actually an nXm dot matrix representation as produced by a standard dot matrix printer. Therefore, the data can be compressed vertically and horizontally when output. In other words, the data consists of all m dots n
It can contain columns and supply all the data. Receiving such compressed data and treating it as normal facsimile data results in a distorted, inconsistent, and unrelated display of the actual data. Of course, the receiver 78 only needs to recognize that the data is in a compressed state and sample the data in order to match the character type for OCR. It is clear that this can be done not through a full page buffer memory for OCR scanning, but through a working buffer where m rows of data can be incorporated into the vertical orientation before horizontal scanning is done by the OCR logic. . The general logic for implementing these methods is
This is shown in the flowchart of FIG. The fax input logic 64 first inputs a row of pixels of whatever number of bits are set per row therein. This row of pixels may be of standard length, but may vary in length for added secrecy, as will be explained in more detail below. The logic then checks to see if lines are being skipped, which is due to data compression being done for scanning when characters generated by keyfax using vertical and horizontal pixel responses are being sent. It is carried out only in places where it is possible. Pixel information is redundant and actually OC
It is not being scanned for R purposes, but it is occurring and
OCR can reduce the amount of data scanned.
The scanning speed by logic can be increased. Therefore, if a previous row of pixels was repeated due to the vertical response, it will be skipped. One row of pixels of each vertical response group is stored in scan buffer 94 in vertical alignment with the previous row. Logic checks if it is the last line from the height of the character. KeyFax generated data results in a fixed number of lines (again speeding up the OCR scanning and character identification process through simplification). For other data, this is when the first row of all white pixels is received, as before. If more lines of text are needed, the logic goes back and fetches them. Otherwise, the logic scans the buffer 94 from “left” to “right” for pixelated characters contained in the buffer 94, and the ASCII for the identified character in the page memory 14.
Memorize the code. So when we get to the end of the message, the logic comes out. Otherwise, it returns to a common point where a recognition line receipt signal, or equivalent, is sent to the transmitting fax. This is an important point in the present invention. In most cases when receiving data, the receiving device receives the data at the speed it is sent;
It must be possible to process (or store for later processing). For this reason, such devices are expensive. However, fax machines operate on a mutual protocol basis, with transmission speed controlled by the slower of the two fax machines. The transmitting fax machine will not transmit the next line until the receiving fax machine acknowledges receipt of the previous line. Taking advantage of these features of facsimile transmission, the scanning fax machine of the present invention can be assembled with very inexpensive (and, of course, slow) equipment, thus reducing the cost to a low price that allows anyone to take advantage of this advantage. It is possible to produce and sell.

Non-standard type (h
In addition to the "andshaking" process and other processes of the protocol, data can be sent in the form of pseudo-pages of non-standard size and non-standard shape (i.e., non-rectangular). As mentioned above, standard facsimile systems typically transmit each page at approximately 2,000 lines of 1,500 pixels (a standard "A" or 11 inch 8-12 sheet).
. With the virtual elimination of "pages", except within the space/time continuum in computer logic and memory, there is no longer a need for constant line length. By varying the line length according to well-known algorithms (which, like other algorithms of the invention, can also be varied with mutual consent of sender and receiver), a series of bits can be is automatically further scrambled to prevent unwarranted recipients from treating it as a standard cylindrical page. Of course, in such cryptosystems the code at the end of the line must be trimmed or skipped. After a starting point is indicated, the unauthorized recipient must count the bits according to an algorithm to locate and vertically align the pixel rows of the scrambled contents of the "document." Since the messages are all alphanumeric, it is more convenient to indicate the shape of the document by the number of characters per line, as generated by a pseudo-random number generator. For example, if n is 7 and m is 9, each character is represented by a cylindrical matrix of 7×9 dots. Due to the nature of the data and the fact that the OCR algorithm is performed based on the amount of characters previously scanned, the space required between each word can be reduced. Only the standard 7X9 "blank" character needs to be placed between each character. If a diamond pattern were used instead of pseudo-random numbers in a "page" format, it would start with 5 characters per line, increase to 20 characters per line, then decrease to 5 characters, and so on. Understanding this, the illegitimate recipient first enters 35 bits and then enters a "carriage return" on the sequence of bits to incorporate the next 35 bits directly below the first 35 bits. This operation is repeated for 9 "rows" of 35 bits represented by the first 5 characters (5 characters of 7 bits per character). Repeat this process for 6 characters per line. That is, the series of bits is divided into nine rows of 42 bits each (six characters of seven bits per character). No further illustrations seem necessary. Possible steps of an ultra-secure communication system including the above-described techniques of the present invention are illustrated in FIG. The original characters entered by pressing keys on keyboard 80 are actually entered as ASCII codes. The next pseudo-random sequence of numbers (modulo the ASCII character code range) is added to the original ASCII character code, turning it into a new (symbolized) character. Then perform symbol substitution for the new character. This symbol is embedded within the output of a series of compressed characters as a patterned "page" of data.

Accordingly, as described above, the present invention provides an alphanumeric character communication system that is capable of ultra-reliably confidential transmission by applying various scrambling techniques to the bits that make up the "figures" of the characters that contain the message. It also provides a method.

[0040]

As described above, the scanning fax machine of the present invention allows a standard computer to input graphic data provided by the facsimile machine's pixel scanning device. It also allows standard computers to use ASCII by optical character identification of documents scanned by the facsimile machine's pixel scanning device.
You can also enter the I character. It is also possible to enter ASCII characters into a standard computer using a local or remote standard facsimile machine as an optical character reader. Furthermore, ultra-reliable transmission of alphanumeric characters is also possible.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a simplified block diagram of a prior art stand-alone optical character reader connected to a computer and inputting alphanumeric characters into the computer by scanning typed paper.

FIG. 2 is a simplified block diagram of a prior art integrally connected facsimile machine for transmitting alphanumeric data in graphic form over a telephone line.

FIG. 3 is a simplified block diagram of a prior art facsimile machine connected to a personal computer implementing an effective facsimile system for transmitting alphanumeric data in graphic form over a telephone line.

FIG. 4 is a simplified block diagram of two prior art facsimile machines connected together for transmitting alphanumeric data in graphic form over a telephone line. One of the two facsimile machines includes a computer interface so that an attached personal computer can utilize the scanning and printing equipment within the facsimile machine.

FIG. 5: Receiving pixel data from a remote standard facsimile machine and a key fax machine through a telephone line or from a local standard facsimile machine at input, and transmitting pixel data to a standard computer connected to an output side, or O
1 is a simplified block diagram of a scanning fax module of the present invention connected to output information in CR/ASCII codes; FIG.

FIG. 6 is a more detailed block diagram of a scanning fax module of one embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a detailed block diagram of the scanning fax ultra-secure communication system of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a front view of the vertical and horizontal pixel responses used in the KeyFax machine used in the secure communication system embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart of the logic implemented by the pseudo switchboard of the present invention to cause a local facsimile machine to output to a local computer.

FIG. 10 illustrates a method of data conversion and transmission in the ultra-secure communication system of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a simplified block diagram of a scanning fax machine showing optional features that make the scanning fax machine versatile.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart of the logic used by a receiving scan fax to compress data from a key fax input for OCR scanning and "fly" conversion.

FIG. 13 is a detailed block diagram of the functionality of the scanning fax module of the present invention according to a second embodiment;

FIG. 14 is a detailed block diagram of the functionality of the scanning fax module of the present invention according to a third embodiment;

[Explanation of symbols]

14 Page memory 20 Computer 22 Fax machine 25 Telephone line 32 Modem 42 Scanning fax machine

Claims (42)

[Claims] 1. A Scan-Fax device that enables a standard facsimile machine to scan a document and input pixelated data therefrom into a standard computer, comprising: a) the facsimile machine; b) computer interface means for interfacing with a computer; and c) interfacing responses to input signals from said facsimile machine, thereby causing said facsimile machine to scan a document. facsimile input logic means connected to the modem means for transmitting the resulting pixelated data to the scanning fax machine; and d) facsimile input logic means for receiving the pixelated data from the facsimile machine by said modem means and said computer interface means. A scanning fax machine characterized in that it comprises logic means for outputting it to a computer via a fax machine. 2. The scanning fax machine of claim 1 further comprising page memory means for receiving pixelated data from the facsimile machine and outputting it to said computer interface means. 3. scanning the contents of said page memory means from top to bottom and from left to right and converting identified alphanumeric characters contained therein into a sequence of binary codes distinguishable by a computer; 3. The scanning fax machine of claim 2 further comprising character recognition means for outputting said binary code to a computer via said computer interface means. 4. Scanning the pixelated data from the facsimile machine and converting the identified alphanumeric characters contained therein into a series of binary codes distinguishable by a computer; The scanning fax machine of claim 1 further comprising character recognition means for output to a computer via the interface means. 5. A) an orientation means located in front of the character identification means for dividing the pixelated data into vertically arranged pixel columns; b)
5. The scanning fax machine of claim 4, wherein said character identification means horizontally scans vertically arranged pixel columns to locate alphanumeric characters contained therein. 6. The user sends a pixeled data from the fact that the pixeled data from the facts is sent directly to the computer in its pixelized form, or a series of doubles corresponding to the alphanumeric characters that can be identified by the character identification means. 5. The scanning fax machine of claim 4, further comprising selection means for selecting whether to first convert to a code. 7. The facsimile machine is a local facsimile machine located in the vicinity of a computer, pseudo switchboard means is provided between the facsimile machine and the modem means, and the modem means is connected to a telephone central switchboard. 2. The scanning fax machine of claim 1, further comprising simulating the functionality of the fax machine and the connection lines connected thereto to enable the local fax machine to call the scanning fax machine and establish an outgoing connection thereto. 8. Switch means operably connected to the telephone line and between the linkage of the facsimile machine and the modem means for selectively connecting the facsimile machine to the telephone line or the pseudo switchboard means. 8. A scanning fax machine as claimed in claim 7. 9. A local facsimile machine is provided near the computer, and includes (a) pseudo switchboard means for simulating the functions of a telephone central switchboard and connecting lines connected thereto; and (b) said modem means. a first position for connecting to a telephone line; a second position for connecting a local facsimile machine to said telephone line; and a second position for connecting said local facsimile machine and pseudo switchboard means, and said pseudo switchboard means and said modem means. 3
2. A scanning fax machine according to claim 1, further comprising a three position switch means operably connected to the telephone line to enable the local facsimile machine to call and transmit to the scanning fax machine. 10. A local facsimile machine located near the computer, said modem means including shift buffer means, said shift buffer means connecting the local facsimile machine and a telephone line, and said modem means connecting said local facsimile machine and said telephone line. the shift buffer means includes an output tap for sampling data and a control input for receiving a signal for ceasing transmission of the signal; an output connected to a control input to allow transmissions from the facsimile machine to be delayed for as long as necessary for processing of said logic means, said output tap being connected as an input to said logic means; 3. The scanning fax machine of claim 2, wherein the scanning fax reads data to the facsimile machine, while the local facsimile machine receives input from the telephone line and sends said read data to the computer. . 11. The present invention further comprises a) display print logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a printer and printing accordingly; and b) function selection means for controlling the operation of the display print logic means. 11. The scanning fax machine of claim 10. 12. The scanning fax machine of claim 11, further comprising: a) a dot printer connected to said display print logic means; and b) a case for commonly housing the scanning fax and said printer. 13. A) display print logic means for outputting data from said page memory means to a pixelated display for viewing; and b) for controlling operation of said display print logic means. 11. The scanning fax machine of claim 10, further comprising function selection means. 14. The scanning fax machine of claim 13, further comprising: a) a pixelated display connected to the display print logic means; and b) a case commonly housing the scanning fax machine and the display. . 15. A scanning fax machine for receiving pixelated data from a facsimile machine and outputting it to another device, comprising: (a) modem means for interfacing with the facsimile-type device; and (b) another device interface for interfacing with other devices. and c) facsimile input logic means connected to said modem means for interfacing to input signals from a facsimile-type device and thereby causing the facsimile-type device to transmit pixelated data to a scanning fax machine. d) a scanning fax machine further comprising logic means for receiving pixelated data coming from a facsimile-type device by said modem means and outputting it to another device via said other device interface means. . 16. The scanning fax machine of claim 15 further comprising page memory means for receiving pixelated data from a facsimile-type device and outputting it to said other device interface means. 17. Scanning the contents of the page memory means from top to bottom and from left to right and converting identified alphanumeric characters contained therein into a series of binary codes distinguishable by other devices. 17. The scanning fax machine of claim 16, further comprising character recognition means for outputting said binary code to another device via said other device interface means. 18. Scanning pixelated data from a facsimile-type device and converting the identified alphanumeric characters contained therein into a series of binary codes that are distinguishable by another device; 16. The scanning fax machine of claim 15 further comprising character recognition means for outputting to another device via said other device interface means. 19. A) orientation means located in front of said character identification means for dividing pixelized data into vertically arranged pixel columns, and b) said character identification means comprises: 19. The scanning fax machine of claim 18, further comprising horizontally scanning said pixel rows for alphanumeric characters contained therein. 20. A user transmits pixelated data from a facsimile-type device directly in pixelated form to another device, or sends a series of pixelated data corresponding to alphanumeric characters distinguishable by said character recognition means. 19. The scanning fax machine of claim 18, further comprising selection means for selecting whether to first convert to a binary code. 21. A facsimile-type device is located in the vicinity of other devices, and is provided between the facsimile-type device and the modem means, and simulates the function of a telephone central switchboard and connecting lines connected thereto. 16. The scanning fax machine of claim 15, further comprising pseudo switchboard means for enabling the local facsimile-type device to call the scanning fax machine for a transmission connection. 22. Further comprising switch means connected to a telephone line and selectively connecting a facsimile-type device to the telephone line or to the pseudo-switchboard means between a link between the facsimile-type device and the modem means. 22. The scanning fax machine of claim 21. 23. A local facsimile machine is provided near other devices, and includes (a) pseudo switchboard means for simulating the functions of a telephone central switchboard and connection lines connected thereto; and (b) said modem means. a first position for connecting a local facsimile machine to a telephone line, a second position for connecting a local facsimile machine to said telephone line, a local facsimile machine and pseudo switchboard means, and said pseudo switchboard means and said modem means. 16. The scanning fax machine of claim 15, wherein a three-position switch means comprising a third position is operably connected to the telephone line to enable the local facsimile machine to call and connect the scanning fax machine. 24. A local facsimile machine is located near the other device, the modem means includes shift buffer means, the shift buffer means connects the local facsimile machine and the telephone line, and the modem means connects the local facsimile machine to the telephone line. the shift buffer means has an output tap for sampling the data and a control input for receiving a signal to stop transmitting the signal; an output connected to said control input, said output tap being connected as an input to said logic means, said output tap being connected as an input to said logic means, said output tap being connected as an input to said logic means; 17. The scanning fax machine of claim 16, wherein the scanning fax machine reads data to the facsimile machine, while the local facsimile machine receives input from the telephone line and transmits the read data to another device. 25.b) outputting data from the page memory means to a printer and printing the data thereby;
25. The scanning fax machine of claim 24, further comprising: display print logic means; and b) function selection means for controlling operation of the display print logic means. 26. The scanning fax machine of claim 25, further comprising: a) a dot printer connected to said display print logic means; and b) a case that commonly houses the scanning fax machine and said printer. 27.b) display print logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a pixelated display for viewing;
25. The scanning fax machine of claim 24 further comprising: b) function selection means for controlling operation of said display print logic means. 28. A scanning fax machine further comprising: a) a pixelated display connected to said display print logic means; and b) a case commonly housing the scanning fax machine and said display. 29. A) display print logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a printer and printing accordingly; and b) function selection means for controlling operation of the display print logic means. 17. The scanning fax machine of claim 16, further comprising: 30. The scanning fax machine of claim 29, further comprising: a) a dot printer connected to said display print logic means; and b) a case for commonly housing the scanning fax and said printer. 31. A) display print logic means for outputting data from said page memory means to a pixelated display for viewing; and b) for controlling operation of said display print logic means. 17. The scanning fax machine of claim 16, further comprising function selection means. 32. The scanning fax machine of claim 31, further comprising: a) a pixelated display connected to the display print logic means; and b) a case commonly housing the scanning fax machine and the display. . 33. A) scrolling display logic means for outputting data from the page memory means to a television so that it can be viewed on a screen; and b) controlling operation of the scrolling display logic means. 17. The scanning fax machine of claim 16, further comprising function selection means for. 34. A) character input means for inputting a first series of alphanumeric characters comprising a message; and a graphic representation comprising a two-dimensional area of pixels within a two-dimensional page of graphic data. a) transmitter means, the transmitter means being connected to the transmitter for transmitting a message, the transmitter comprising pixel converter means for converting a number of characters; and transmitter means for transmitting the graphic data of said two-dimensional page by means of a transmitter; b) transmitter means connected to the transmitter for transmitting a message; receiving means for receiving said two-dimensional page of graphic data from a computer; and scanning said two-dimensional page of graphic data from top to bottom and from left to right to identify said first alphanumeric character from a predetermined shape. , character identification means for creating a series of readable codes corresponding to the identified first alphanumeric character, and on said transmission medium for receiving a message and placing it in readable form. Apparatus for transmitting and receiving alphanumeric characters, further comprising connected receiver means. 35. A) inputting an initial sequence of alphanumeric characters containing a message; and b) converting the initial alphanumeric characters into a graphical display consisting of a two-dimensional region of pixels within a two-dimensional page of graphical data. , c) transmitting a two-dimensional page of graphic data by means of a transmitting medium at a transmitting position;
d) at a receiving location receives a two-dimensional page of graphic data from the transmission medium; e) scans the two-dimensional page of graphic data from top to bottom and from left to right; and f) scans the first page contained therein. (i) identifying alphanumeric characters from a predetermined form; g) creating a sequence of readable codes corresponding to the identified first alphanumeric character; A reliable way to send and receive alphanumeric characters. 36. A) Before transmitting the two-dimensional page of graphic data by the transmission medium, the pixels comprising the two-dimensional page of graphic data are scrambled at the transmission position according to a predetermined scrambling algorithm; 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising the step of restoring the pixels of the two-dimensional page of graphics at the receiving location according to a predetermined scrambling algorithm before scanning the two-dimensional page. . 37. The step of inputting a first series of alphanumeric characters of a message and converting it into a graphical representation comprises: a) inputting the first series of alphanumeric characters by pressing a key on an alphanumeric keyboard; 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising the steps of: (b) recognizing that a key has been pressed and replacing the corresponding two-dimensional region of pixels to project the associated alphanumeric character. 38. The step of inputting a first series of alphanumeric characters of the message and converting it into a graphical representation comprises: a) inputting the first series of characters by pressing a key on an alphanumeric keyboard and converting it into a graphical representation; ) recognize that a key has been pressed and replace it with the associated number; c) use that number code to obtain a two-dimensional region of corresponding pixels;
36. The method of claim 35, further comprising the step of mapping alphanumeric characters associated with each numeric code. 39. A) at the transmitting position, before obtaining the two-dimensional region of associated pixels using the numerical code, add the following consecutive numbers from the pseudo-random number sequence to each numerical code; and b) at the receiving position: 39. The method of claim 38, further comprising the step of dividing the next consecutive number from the pseudo-random number sequence by a readable code before reading it as a message. 40. A) At the transmitting position, before incorporating into a two-dimensional page of graphic data, replace it with a symbol consisting of a two-dimensional area of pixels based on a predetermined permutation table; and (b) At the receiving position, the scanning step After and before the step of creating a readable set of codes corresponding to the identified, based on a predetermined substitution table,
39. The transmitting and receiving method of claim 38, further comprising the step of restoring each identified symbol to its original notation. 41. The step of converting initial alphanumeric characters into a graphical representation and incorporating the same into a two-dimensional page of graphical data comprises converting the graphical data into a non-rectangular form by varying the length of the page rows according to a predetermined algorithm. 36. The method of claim 35, further comprising incorporating the graphical representation within a two-dimensional page. 42. The step of a) converting the initial alphanumeric characters into a graphical representation includes providing a vertical and horizontal pixel response in a two-dimensional domain for each predetermined alphanumeric character and symbol, and b) determining the receiving location. receiving a two-dimensional page of graphic data from a transmission medium, compressing the data before scanning by removing sample pixels of the data at the speed of the vertical and horizontal response;
35. The transmitting/receiving method according to claim 34, characterized in that data remaining at the time of reception is discarded.