JPH0488358A - Management system and centralized management unit for copying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To allow the sure data collection and centralized management of the respective copying machine managing devices by changing the time zone of the fixed time signal transmission of the copying machine managing devices when the fixed time signal transmission time of a certain copying machine managing device is set in the time zone where the connection to the centralized management unit is difficult. CONSTITUTION:Whether the arrival of the signal from the copying machine managing device is detected or not is decided at the fixed time signal transmission time of the arbitrary copying machine managing device managed by the centralized management unit. The result of the decision is adopted as the data for computating the frequency at which the fixed time signal transmission is not executed at the fixed time signal transmission date and time concerning the copying machine managing device. The next fixed time signal transmission date and time of the copying machine managing device are set according to this frequency. The next fixed time signal transmission date and time data set in such a manner is transmitted to the copying machine managing device. The probability that the copying machine managing device cannot be connected to the centralized management unit at the center at the fixed time signal transmission date and time is gradually decreased in this way and, therefore, the collection of the data of the respective copying machine managing devices and further the centralized management thereof are surely executed.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention]

[Field of Industrial Application] The present invention relates to a copying machine management system and a centralized management device for transmitting data for copying machine management between a copying machine management device and a central management device.

[Conventional technology]

(1) A method has been proposed in which management data for multiple copying machines is sent to a single central processing unit and processed in batches by the central processing unit (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 54032/1983). . (2> A system has been proposed that centrally manages each copying machine by transmitting the management data of multiple copying machines to a single central control unit via the terminal device of each copying machine and processing it. (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 54-44522). (3) A system equivalent to the above has been proposed in which communication with a central control unit is performed via a communication line network such as a public telephone line.

[H point while the invention is trying to solve]

In a system that centrally manages a large number of copying machines (more precisely, copying machine management devices connected to each copying machine) via communication lines, each copying machine management device has its own scheduled transmission date and time. After allocating the data, the corresponding copying machine management device to the central management device are connected to perform predetermined data communication at the scheduled transmission date and time. Furthermore, in addition to data communication at the scheduled transmission date and time, for example, in the event of a trouble, connection is made to the central control device to perform data communication necessary to deal with the trouble. However, as mentioned above, data communication between the copier management device and the central control device is performed via the communication line, so even if the scheduled call date and time has arrived, for example, a telephone sharing the communication line Connection with the central management device cannot be made for applications such as . Further, even if some kind of trouble occurs in another copying machine management device and data communication is being performed between the other copying machine management device and the central management device, connection with the central management device cannot be established. In order to deal with this, in such a case, the copying machine management device automatically sets a recall time, and calls the central management device again at the recall time. However, if the scheduled transmission date and time of the copying machine management device is set to a time when it is difficult to connect to the central management device for some reason, the copying machine management device will frequently send calls to the central management device. A re-call will be made. This is not only wasteful, but also monopolizes the user's communication line and prevents, for example, the use of a telephone that shares the communication line. This announcement was made in consideration of the above circumstances, and if the scheduled transmission date and time of the copying machine management device is set in a time zone where it is difficult to connect to the central management device, the copying machine management device The purpose of this is to prevent the above-mentioned inconvenience by changing the time zone of scheduled transmissions. Note that times when it is difficult to connect to the central management device include, for example, times when the user of the copying machine management device frequently uses the telephone, times when troubles are likely to occur in each copying machine management device, or , such as first thing in the morning, when the copier management devices are powered on and calls are busy.

[Means to solve the problem]

The first invention is a system comprising a copying machine management device that has a data collection function for copying machines, and a central management device that manages each copying machine management device via a communication line. Here,
The copying machine management device includes a clock means, a means for connecting to the central control device at the scheduled transmission date and time for predetermined data communication, and a device for transmitting the scheduled transmission date and time data received at the time of connection to the central control device at the next scheduled transmission time. It has means for storing as transmission date and time data. The central control device also includes clock means, means for storing the scheduled transmission date and time data of each copying machine management device, means for detecting a copying machine management device that does not make scheduled transmissions on the scheduled transmission date and time, and means for calculating, for each copying machine management device, the frequency with which scheduled transmissions are not made on the transmission date and time;
It has means for setting the next scheduled transmission date and time according to the frequency and transmitting it to the copier management apparatus. Further, the second invention is an apparatus for centrally managing a large number of copying machine management apparatuses via a communication line, and includes a clock means, a storage means for storing the scheduled transmission date and time data of each copying machine management apparatus, respectively; means for detecting a copying machine management device that does not make a scheduled call on the scheduled sending date and time; means for calculating for each copying machine management device the frequency of not making a scheduled call on the scheduled sending date and time; and means for setting and transmitting the next scheduled transmission date and time of the machine management device. In the above, "setting the date and time of the next scheduled transmission according to the slope" means, for example, when the frequency exceeds a predetermined value, the time of the next scheduled transmission of the copier management device will be changed from the previous time. This refers to setting a time zone that is different from the time of scheduled transmission.

[Effect]

In the central management device, at the scheduled transmission date and time of any copy machine management device managed by the central management device (specifically, within a relatively short time from the date and time side), from the copy machine management device It is determined whether or not an incoming call has been detected. The above-mentioned establishment result is employed as data for calculating the frequency with which scheduled transmissions are not made on the scheduled transmission date and time regarding the copier management device. Further, the next scheduled transmission date and time of the copier management device is set according to the above-mentioned slope. For example, if the frequency exceeds a predetermined threshold, the time data of the scheduled transmission date and time data of the copier management device is set to a time zone different from the previous scheduled transmission time. Note that the day data is set as a date a predetermined number of days after the current time. Further, the scheduled transmission date and time data set in this manner is transmitted to the copier management device. Note that the copying machine management device performs the next scheduled transmission based on the above data.

【Example】

The present invention will be explained in detail below. [Overall Configuration of the System First, the schematic configuration of this system will be explained with reference to FIGS. 1 to 5. Figure 1~21! As shown in FIG. 1, this system includes a large number of user devices (one set of user devices is shown in the figure),
It consists of a center-side device, which is the administrator, and a communication line network that connects these devices. Here, on the user side, a copying machine 4, a DT (data terminal) 1, a modem 52 which also functions as a communication terminal device, and a telephone 53 which is a communication device are installed. Note that the data terminal 1 is a device that receives various information from the copying machine 4, performs predetermined processing on it, and transmits it to a computer on the center side. On the other hand, on the center side, a modem 72 which also functions as a communication terminal device, a combination computer (main unit 90, display 92, keyboard 93, printer 94), and a telephone 73 which is a communication device are installed. , creates data for copying machine management based on data received via a communication line network (for example, a telephone line network), and takes necessary measures. Next, each device will be described. Copying machine 4> This is a device that forms a copy WJ image on a sheet of paper by scanning the original image. The copying machine 4 uses various element data that affect the image forming process (paper transport time, surface potential of the photoreceptor drum, toner concentration in the developer, exposure amount of the photoreceptor drum, development bias voltage, The amount of attached toner, the grid voltage of the charger, etc.) are detected by various sensor groups (not shown), taken into the CPU 41 and processed, and then transmitted to the data terminal 10 CPU II via the serial I/F 43 and the serial E/F 13. The various element data described above will be abstractly expressed as element data X+ (i=1 to the number of items of element data) in the explanation of control to be described later. The copying machine 4 also has counters (total counter indicating the number of paper ejections,
(counter by paper size that shows the number of times each paper size has been used)
, a counter that serves as a guideline for maintenance (J on the side
Count the count values of the location-side JAM counter that indicates the number of AM operations, the location-side trouble counter that indicates the number of troubles at the location, and the component-specific PM counter that indicates the number of times each component has been used. It is transmitted to CPL, 111 of data terminal 1 via F12. On the right, the PM counter is a counter that counts the number of times each part is used, and the count value is used as a guide for when to replace the part. The copying machine 4 also has various key switches on the operation panel (Fig. 4) (a printout (P.
R) key 46. Numeric keypad group 47 for numerical input. clear key 48 for instructing clearing of input data, etc.), various switch groups other than the operation panel (for example, trouble reset switch 49 for instructing trouble reset)
In response to the signals from the data terminal, a predetermined operation or mode setting is performed, and the corresponding signal is sent to the data terminal via the serial I/F 42 and the serial I/F 12 as necessary. l0) Send to CPU11. Note that the transmission data also includes numerical data being displayed on the display section 451. Data terminal 1> When the data from the copying machine 4 is taken in and processed, and a predetermined estrous condition (condition for the transmission flag to be set to "1": see the section on control described later for details) is met, the modem 52
, connect the communication line with the center side, and transmit the copying machine management data (element data, count data, etc.)
This is a device that transmits the information to the center side. In addition, when communicating by scheduled transmission, scheduled transmission date and time data transmitted from the management center is received and stored in a predetermined memory area. As shown in FIG. 2, the control Uc of the data terminal 1 is
The PU 11 includes a ROM 14 in which a control program is stored;
It is connected to a nonvolatile memory 16 for storing selection number data (described later), etc., a system RAM 15 for working that is backed up by a battery, and a clock IC 17 that is also backed up by a battery. The CPU II executes the processing described later by receiving data transmitted from the copying machine 4 from the serial I/F 12 or the serial I/F 13, or at a predetermined time. In addition, the 51st! 1 is a diagram showing the data configuration of a paper ejection code, a JAM code, and a trouble code, which are data input via the serial 1/F12. That is, the paper ejection code is represented as a falling edge of bit b, and the JAM code is represented as b)b,=l,b6=Q. Also, the trouble code is bit bt” 1.
It is expressed as bg = 1. The CPU II also executes predetermined operations, mode settings, etc. in response to inputs from the operation switches. Here, as the operation switches, four dip switches DIP-SW1 to DIP-SW4 are used as shown in FIG.
, and a bushing switch 21 are installed. DIP-3W4 is a switch for setting the initial setting mode. In addition, DIP-3WI is the center selection number (telephone number) input mode, DI P-SW2 is the data terminal 1 identification ID number (DTID) input mode, and DIP-5W3 is the center identification ID.
These are switches for setting the input mode of the number (center ID). In addition, push switch 21
is a switch for instructing initial setting transmission (see 5145 in FIG. 8). The CPU II is also connected to a modem 52, which is a communication terminal device, via a communication interface (R3232CI/F) 18 on the CPU II side and a communication interface (R5232CI/F) 51 on the modem 52 side. That is, by sending an off-footer signal and a center selection number signal from the modem 52 to the communication line through these devices, the communication line with the center side modem 72 is connected, and communication with the center computer is performed. It is configured to obtain. Note that the data transmitted from the data terminal l to the center side (the contents of the copying machine management data are determined by the type of transmission flag set to 11w'', as will be explained in detail later). This is a computer device configured to be connected to a large number of data terminals via a line network.This device manages each copying machine connected to each data terminal.That is, from the data terminal 1 side, Data sent to the modem 72 via the communication line network is sent to the communication interface (R5232CI/F) on the modem 72 side and the communication interface (R3232CI/F) on the computer side.
The information is sequentially inputted to the CPU 91 via 98. CPU
91 processes the data (the element data, count data, etc.) to create management data for the copying machine 4 connected to the data terminal 1. Furthermore, based on the management data, a bill is printed out, instructions are given as to whether or not to dispatch a service person, and parts, etc. to be prepared at the time of dispatch are selected. Further, during scheduled communication (communication due to the scheduled transmission flag being set to "1"), the next scheduled transmission date and time data is transmitted from the CPU 91 side to the data terminal 1 side. Note that among the next scheduled transmission date and time data, the time period of the time data is changed depending on the frequency of non-reception by the data terminal, as will be described later. [2] Control of the system Next, the control of this system will be explained with reference to FIGS. 6 to 19. Processing on the copying machine side> First, the processing in the control PU 41 of the copying machine will be explained with reference to the flowchart in FIG. For example, the CPU 41 starts processing when the power is turned on, and performs initial settings such as clearing the memory and setting the standard mode (341). Thereafter, the processes of steps 343 to S49 are executed. Step 543 includes a group of key switches on the operation panel 40 (numeric keypad group 47 for numerical input, print (PR) key 46 for commanding to start copying, clear key 48 for command to clear electronic numbers, etc.), trouble reset switch This process takes in data from a group of switches such as 49, a group of sensors (not shown) arranged inside the copying machine, and data received from the data terminal 1 side.
This is also a process for transmitting count data and the like. Step S47 is a step that collectively shows the processing required during the copying operation. Examples include paper feeding control, scanning control, photoreceptor drum control, and developer control. Step 351 and subsequent steps are processing when a trouble occurs. In other words, if a JAM or other trouble occurs (
349; YES), data terminal 1 control CP
A signal corresponding to the trouble that has occurred is transmitted to the UI 1 (551). Further, when the trouble reset switch 49 is operated by an operator or the like (S53;
YES), a trouble reset signal is sent to the control CPU II of the data terminal 1 in the same manner as above (S55). Processing on the Data Terminal Side> Next, the processing on the control CPU 1 of the data terminal will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 to 14. (a) Main Routine First, an outline of the processing will be explained based on the main routine shown in FIG. The control CPU II starts processing when the power is turned on, executes initial setting processing (S13) as necessary, and then transmits a copy permission signal to the control CPU 41 of the copying machine (S15). After that, steps 317 to S3
The process moves to repeat loop processing of step 1. In each subroutine step, the following processing is generally performed. *Initial setting: 813 When turning on the power, dip switch DIP-S
When W4 is on, that is, when it is the initial setting moto (S 11 ; YES), it is executed. As described later, the center selection (telephone) number, data terminal ID number (DTID>center ID number (center ID) settings, and initial setting call are performed. *Count data reception: S17 Copy machine control Performs reception processing of various count data sent from the CPU 41. Data contents include discharge code, JAM/trouble code,
JAM/trouble counter, counter by paper size, P
It is an M counter. The data terminal control ffcPU11 updates and holds these data to the latest values. *Element data reception/data processing: 819 As will be described later, data corresponding to the average value and standard deviation of each element data is sequentially calculated and updated to the latest value. *Trouble transmission determination: 821 As described later, it is determined whether or not trouble data and trouble recovery data should be transmitted to the center side. * Scheduled transmission determination: 523 Set the scheduled transmission flag to 1 on a predetermined scheduled transmission date and time to transmit various count data and various element data to the center. After the scheduled transmission is completed, the center sends back the next scheduled transmission date and time data, current time data, and bill cutoff date data. As described below, the time of the next scheduled call will be set to a different time zone from the current time if the recent difficulty in receiving calls (the frequency of not being able to connect even after the scheduled call date and time) has been high. Ru. *Warning generation determination: 825 As described later, the element data, the count value of the JAM counter, and the count value of the PM counter are each compared with a predetermined threshold value. Also, based on the results, it is determined whether or not warning data and warning recovery data should be transmitted to the center side. *Manual transmission determination: 527 When the Punni switch 21 is turned on when not in the initial setting mode, the manual transmission flag is set to 1. As a result, various count data and various element data are transmitted to the center. *PM transmission judgment: 829 As described later, the count value is set to “0” by replacing parts.
The count value of the PM counter before clearing is sent to the center. Water line power processing: S31 As described later, when any call flag is set to "1", the communication terminal device on the center side is called. Further, after connection with the CPU 91 on the center side, data communication is executed. Note that during communication for scheduled transmission (transmission with scheduled transmission flag = 1), the next scheduled transmission date and time data transmitted from the center side is received. (b) Subroutine Next, the details of each subroutine step are shown in Figure jliB~
This will be explained in order with reference to FIG. *Initial setting process (Fig. 8) This process is performed when the dip switch D is turned on when the power is turned on.
When IP-5W4 is turned on (Sl 1 ; YE
S) is executed. In this process, the initial settings of the center selection number, data terminal ID number (DTID), and center ID number (center ID) are accepted, and the initial settings are sent. First, initialize the memory 15 (5IOI), then
Three dip switches DIP-3WI ~ DIP-5W
Wait for 3 to turn on. When DIP-3W1 is turned on (SILL; YES)
, enters the selection number (telephone number) input mode. That is, the numerical value input using the numeric keypad 47 of the copying machine and displayed in the first digit of the display unit 45 is stored in the non-volatile memory as the center selection number data in response to input from the print key 46 (3113; YES). 16 (5115). Note that the selection number input mode is canceled by turning off the DIP-3WI (S117). Similarly, in response to turning on DIP-3W2 (S121
; YES), the DTID input mode is set, and the numerical value displayed in the first digit of the display section 45 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as DTID data in response to the input of the print key 46 (5123; YES). (S125)
. Further, the DTID input mode is canceled by turning off DIP-5W2 (3127). Similarly, in response to turning on DIP-3W3 (S131;
YES), the center ID input mode is set, and each time the print key 46 is input (S133; YES), the numerical value displayed in the first digit of the display section 45 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as center ID data. (S135
). In addition, the center ID input mode is DIP・-3W
3 is turned off (5137). In this way, when all three types of data settings are completed (S
141 ; YES), the button switch 21 is enabled, and when the button switch 21 is pressed (S 1
43; YES), an initial setting call is made to the center (5145). In other words, after the line is connected to the center side, the center's cPU
91, the above two types of ID data are transmitted. Further, when the transmission is completed, the data transmitted from the center CPU 91 (the count data cut-off date, the first regular transmission date and time, the current time, and the threshold value for warning determination) is received. Note that when the above-mentioned transmission and reception are completed, it is determined whether or not the communication was performed normally (S147). As a result, if it is not performed normally (S147; N
o) Return to step 5111 and press the button switch 21.
Wait for the switch to turn on again. Further, if the process is performed normally (5147; YES), the process returns to the main routine and processes from step 515 onwards are executed. *Receiving element data, etc. (Figure 9) In this subroutine step, a threshold value (warning transmission judgment; first
(see Figure 1) is calculated. First, the element data group X, j transmitted from the copying machine each time a copy sheet is ejected is fetched from the serial I/F 13 (S201). Here, the subscript l represents the item number of the element data, and the subscript J represents the order within each item. Next, after assigning the initial value 1 to item number l (8203)
, for each item, maximum value XIMAX% minimum value Xl1
Sequentially update lIN% and sum Xik (3205~
5217). After that, the subscript J is incremented (S219), and J
If is 4 or less, return to the main routine. In this way, steps 5201 to 5217 are performed four times for each item (S221; YES).
, after resetting the subscript J to 1 (S223), assign the initial value 1 to item number 1 (5225), and calculate the difference R between the maximum value and minimum value for each item, and the average value of the four data. Calculate each Xlk (3227 to 5233
). Note that step 5229 is the next step 820.
This is a step of providing initial values of the maximum value X INAX and the minimum value X□□H in preparation for the processing in steps 5 to 5211. After processing steps 5227 to 5233 above, Stella 7'32
Steps 37 to 5245 and c. Steps 8247 to 5263 are executed. Steps 5237 to 5245 are the upper ICs 5227 to 5.
This is a process when the cumulative total of 233 processes has not reached 33 times, and for each item, the sum RIK of the difference Rik between the maximum value and the minimum value, and the average value Xlk of the 4 data This is a step in which the sum XIS is calculated for 32 times of data. On the other hand, steps 8247 to 5263 are the steps 5227 to 5263 described above.
This is a process when the cumulative total of 5233 processes is 33 or more times, and for each item, the sum of the differences Rik 'R, su
, l, and the sum of the above average value Xik X i S 111+
This is the step of calculating the latest 32 times of data, and calculating the respective average values Xi and Ri. As described above, for each item of element data, the average value X1 of the latest 128 (=4×32) pieces of data and the average value of the deviation (value equivalent to the standard deviation)
Get Ri. *Trouble call determination (Figure 10) This process is a subroutine that manages trouble call and trouble recovery call. That is, in the state of "trouble flag = 0"(S301;
YES) When a trouble code from the copying machine is detected (5303; YES), the trouble flag and the trouble transmission flag are set to "1" (53
05). Also, in the state of “trouble flag = 1” (S301; N
o) When the paper ejection code from the copier is detected (5
307; YES), resets the trouble flag to "0" and sets the trouble recovery transmission flag to "1"(5309>.The paper ejection in the copying machine is an operation performed after the trouble is recovered. This is because the trouble transmission flag and the trouble recovery transmission flag are set to execute pear-shaped processing (Fig. 13), and the trouble data and trouble recovery data are respectively transmitted to the center. *Warning transmission determination (Fig. 11) This process is a subroutine that manages warning transmission and warning recovery transmission. Steps 8401 to 5427 issue a warning when the value of the element pig is out of the permissible range specific to the element data. This process also executes a warning recovery transmission when the range returns to within the permissible range.First, an initial value "1" is set to the item number l indicating the type of element data (S401).Next, In step 5411, the warning flag for the target element data (the first element data for the first time) is determined.As a result, if the warning flag for the element data is "0"(S411; YES), determine whether the element data value is within the allowable range specific to the element data, in other words, whether it is within the range of the upper limit threshold 1° or less and the lower limit threshold 1L or more. death,
If it is outside the above tolerance range (3413; YES,
or 5415; YES), the warning flag Fi and the warning transmission flag for the element data are each set to "1" (5417). As a result, pear-shaped processing (FIG. 13) is executed, and warning data is sent to the center. On the other hand, if the warning flag of the target element data is "1" in step 5411 (S411; No),
It is determined whether the value of the element data has returned to the above tolerance range, and if it has returned (3421; YES,
And, 3423; YES), the warning flag Ft for the element data is reset to "02", and the warning recovery transmission flag is set to "1". As a result, the pear-shaped processing (Fig. 13) is executed. , for the center,
Alert recovery data is sent. After performing this process until l reaches the number of items of element data, in other words, after performing it for all element data, the process moves to step 3431 and subsequent steps. Steps 5431 to 5445 are the JAM counter and P
This is a process for issuing a warning when the count value (frequency) of the M counter exceeds a specific dark value, and issuing a recovery warning when the count value (frequency) of the M counter returns to a threshold value or less. First, the initial value "] (value of the final number of element data divided by 1)" is set in the item number m indicating the type of JAM counter and PM counter (S431). Next, in step 5433, the warning flag for the target JAM counter or PM counter is determined. As a result, if the warning flag for the JAM counter or PM counter is 0"(S433; YES)
), it is determined whether the value of the counter is within the permissible range specific to the counter, that is, whether it exceeds the dark value, and if it is exceeded (8435; YES), a warning about the counter is issued. Set flag F and warning transmission flag to “1”,
Set each (5437). As a result, pear-shaped processing (FIG. 13) is executed, and warning data is sent to the center. On the other hand, in step 5433, if the warning flag for the target JAM counter or PM counter is 1''(S433; No), it is determined whether the value of the counter has returned to below the threshold value, If you return (5441
;YES), resets the warning flag F1 for the acid counter to “O”, and also sets the warning recovery transmission flag to “1”.
''. As a result, the current collection process (Fig. 13) is executed and warning recovery data is sent to the center. In other words, after all the counters have been processed, the process returns to the main routine. As described above, warning transmission and warning recovery transmission are managed. *PM transmission determination (Figure 12) In this process, PM transmission is managed. In addition, the initial value "" is set in item number 1 indicating the type of PM counter.
1" (5501), steps 3503 to 55
After executing the process 11, the value of ] is incremented, that is, the type of PM counter is changed, and the above process is repeated. Here, the processing of steps 5503 to 5511 above is performed when the PM counter is cleared (5505; YES and
5507; YES), saves the count value of the PM counter immediately before clearing (S509), and sets the PM transmission flag to "
This is the process of setting it to 1 (S511). In addition, PM
The counter is cleared by a service person when replacing the part corresponding to the PM counter. Also, when “PM transmission flag = 12,” the current collection process (
131st! l) is executed and PM data (type of replaced parts, count value before replacement) is sent to the center.
is sent. *Pear-shaped processing (Figures 13 and 14) In this process, the center is called in response to "any call flag = 1", and data corresponding to the call flag is transmitted. First, if any call flag is set to 11'' (
S601; YES), not in redial standby (5603; No), communication line with center modem 72 not connected (S605; No), off-hook signal and selection signal not being sent to the communication line On the condition that (5607; NO), the modem 52 is instructed to send an off-hook signal and a selection signal to the communication line (3609). By the process in step 5609, the next step 56
The determination at step 07 is "YES". In this case,
If the user's telephone 53 is in a busy state (the communication line is in use) and therefore the modem 52 cannot send the off-hook signal and selection signal to the communication line (S611;
If YES), the time after the fixed time is set as the redial time (5613). As a result of the process in step 5613, the determination in step 5603 becomes "YES" and the call process for the center side modem 72 is not executed until the redial time comes. In addition, when the redial time comes, 5603; No-5605; N○ → 3607, N
O → 5609 commands the modem 52 again to send an off-hook signal and a selection signal to the communication line. Also, by the process of step 5609, the modem 52
If it is determined that the modem 72 on the center side is busy (the communication line on the center side is occupied) as a result of sending an off-footer signal and a selection signal from ! J dial time processing (11
4; described later) is executed (, 5617). As a result, the determination in step 5603 becomes "YES" until the time set in the redial time processing, and the calling processing of the center side modem 72 is not executed. Furthermore, when the time set in this process comes, the center side modem 7 is activated again.
2 calls are made. On the other hand, as a result of the process in step 5609, the modem 52
sends an off-hook signal and a selection signal to the communication line, and as a result, when the communication line with the center side modem 72 is connected (5605; YES), it waits for a state in which data transmission is possible due to data transmission permission from the center side, When the transmission becomes possible (S621; YES), data communication with the center side is performed (S625). The data content transmitted and received in step 5625 is defined by the origination flag set to "l". For example, in the case of communication based on scheduled transmissions,
The next scheduled transmission date and time data is received and stored in a predetermined memory area (see 8901, etc. in FIG. 17). In this way, when all data communications are completed (S623;
YES), call, reset the flag to “0” hL (S62
7), and also causes a line disconnection signal to be sent to the communication line to disconnect the communication line with the center side modem 72 (5)
629). Next, redial time processing (5617, Fig. 14) will be explained. Redial time processing is performed when connection with the center side CPU 91 cannot be established (S615; YES). This is the process of setting the time. First, a counter for counting the number of redials (redial counter) is counted up (S651). The counter is cleared after the communication line is connected to the center side. Next, It is determined whether the current call is a call in emergency mode (for example, trouble call).As a result, if the call is in emergency mode (S653; YES),
On the condition that the redial counter value is less than a times (=about 10 to 20 times) (S655; YES), the time one minute from now is set as the next call (redial) time (S657). That is, in the emergency mode, the center calls 8 every minute until the number of redials reaches a.
processing is performed. Note that when the number of times of dialing in the emergency mode reaches a number of times (S655; No), a predetermined time of the next day is set as the redial time (S659). If it is not possible to connect to the center despite making a number of calls (possibly due to abnormal line congestion, center-side CPT, :91 operation stoppage, etc.), the user's communication line is monopolized and the 111 caller This is to ensure that the use of 53 etc. is not hindered. On the other hand, if it is determined in step 5653 that the mode is not emergency mode (S653; No), the redial counter value is 5.
(S661; YES)
, Set any even minute time within 20 minutes from the current time as the next call (redial) time using a random number (S
663). As a result, even if a large number of data terminals are calling the center, the dialing times of each data terminal are scattered, increasing the possibility of being able to connect to the center. In addition, when the number of Nori dials becomes b times or more in the non-emergency mode (3661; No), a predetermined time on the next day is set as the next Nori dial time (S665). If you cannot connect to the center despite calling the center b times (abnormal communication line congestion, center CPU
This is to prevent the user's communication line from being occupied and hindering the use of the telephone 53 etc. when the telephone 91 stops operating, etc.). Pear-shaped processing is performed as described above, data is transmitted to the center, and data is received from the center as necessary. Processing at the center> Next, the CPU installed in the center computer
The processing at 91 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 15 to 19. (a) Fl ~F? Key Processing (FIG. 15) First, processing for input from the keyboard 93 will be explained. The CPU 91 starts processing, for example, by connecting a power source. First, after setting the environment for the modem, printer, etc. (361), set the following mode or perform the following process according to the input operation of each key switch F1 to F7 on the keyboard 93. Execute. - F1 key operation (S63; YES) Sets the reception mode for model registration (S65). That is, new registrations such as the model name, the number of element data items (1), the name of each element data, the threshold value of each element data, the darkness value of each count data, etc. are accepted. - F2 key operation (S67; YES) Sets the user master registration reception mode (S69). That is, new registrations such as user name, address, telephone number, scheduled call date and time, etc. are accepted. - F3 key operation (S71; YES) displays the trouble status (373). That is, the user information (user name, address, telephone number, model name) of the copying machine to which the trouble was reported, the date and time of occurrence, etc. are displayed on the display 92 together with the details of the trouble. Note that the number of troubles is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F3 key. - F4 key operation (575; YES) Displays the warning status (377). That is, the user information of the copying machine for which the warning was issued is displayed on the display 92 together with the contents of the warning. Note that the number of warnings is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F4 key. - F5 key operation (S79; YES) Displays unreceived status <581). That is, the user information of a copying machine that does not make a scheduled call even after a predetermined scheduled call date and time is read out from the unreceived buffer (see FIG. 19) and displayed on the display 92. Note that the number of unreceived messages is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F4 key. - F6 key operation (S83; YES) Enters user data display mode (S85). That is, when a user is selected, user information is displayed on the display 92. Also, when you select a submenu,
Various counters (total counter,
Count values of paper size counters, JAM counters, trouble counters, PM counters) and element data are displayed by month or by item. - F7 key operation (S87; YES) Print out the bill (S89). For example, the billing amount is calculated based on the count value of the total counter and a predetermined calculation formula, and the printer 94 is activated to print out the bill. (b) Incoming call interruption processing (jl! Figure 16, Figure 17) Next,
Incoming call interruption processing will be explained. The CPU 91 receives data transmitted via the communication line from the data terminal side through the main incoming call interruption process, and also performs predetermined processing on the received data (S9).
1). That is, when an interruption occurs due to an incoming call from the communication line, D
Transmission processing of the TID, reception description of transmission data, and scheduled transmission date and time is performed (5901). Note that if a communication error occurs (S903; Y
ES), on the condition that the number of errors has occurred within a predetermined number (S905; YES), requests the data terminal to retransmit the DTID and transmission data, or requests C
The PU 91 side requests retransmission of the scheduled transmission date and time (S907). If DTID is received as data (S909;
YES), When the source data terminal is identified as DTJ (third data terminal managed by CPU 91) by the DTID (S911;
YES) The next scheduled transmission date and time of the data terminal DT is calculated as in steps 5913 to 8923 and set as transmission data. First, it is determined whether the unreceived frequency of the data terminal DT, which is the source, exceeds a predetermined threshold (5913).
. The unreceived frequency is the frequency at which incoming calls due to scheduled outgoing calls are not detected even after the scheduled outgoing date and time, and as described later,
Calculations are made for each data terminal, and the latest values are stored (see No. 191!l). As a result of the determination in step 5913, data terminal D
If the floor reception reliability of T does not exceed the predetermined threshold (8913; NO), the date and time after P days is set as the next scheduled transmission date and time data of data terminal DT (5923). That is, in this case, data terminal D
The next scheduled transmission of T will be made at the same time P days later (same time as the current scheduled transmission). On the other hand, if it is determined in step 8913 that the frequency of non-reception of data terminal DT exceeds a predetermined threshold, (
5913; YES), set the date and time of P days and 0 hours later as the next scheduled transmission date and time data.59
15, 3923), and also clears the unreceived frequency of the data terminal DT (S917). That is, in this case,
The next scheduled transmission from the data terminal DTJ will take place 0 hours after P. Note that, by the process of step $915, DT. If there is an overlap with the scheduled transmission date and time of another copying machine management device (S919; YES), the next scheduled transmission date and time data of "Data Terminal DT" will be P days later and 0 hours later. , and sets the date and time after R minutes (S915, 5921.5923). That is, in this case, the next scheduled transmission from data terminal DT is P.
The next scheduled transmission date and time data set as above will be sent to the data terminal. After a series of data reception from the DT is completed, the data is transmitted to the data terminal DT through the processing in step 5901 (see 5625 in FIG. 13).In addition, in step 5911, the received DTID is
If it does not correspond to any of the data terminals managed by U91, it is considered that there is a data transmission/reception error, and a request is made to retransmit the t1 data (S907). On the other hand, when the received data is data other than DTID (
5909; No>, that is, the normal DTID is sent before the various data of the copying machine 4 equipped with the data terminal DT.After receiving the DTID, the processing in steps 5911 to 5923 is There was no need to do it.
, proceed to step 5931. In this way, when the data communication with the data terminal DT is completed (S931; YES), if DTj is stored in the unreceived buffer (S933; YES).
S) After removing the data (3935), disconnect the communication line (5937), perform aggregation by item and month, and create screen display data according to operator selection.<59
39). (c) Timer interrupt processing (FIGS. 18 and 19) Next, the timer interrupt processing will be explained. The CPU 91 executes a non-reception check process using a timer interrupt every minute (395), detects data terminals that do not make scheduled transmissions even after the scheduled transmission date and time, and calculates the frequency of non-reception. That is, when a timer interrupt occurs, after assigning an initial value 1 to a variable j (j = 1 to the number of data terminals to be managed) that specifies a data terminal (S951), steps 3953 to 595 are performed regarding the data terminal DTj.
Perform the process in step 9. First, 1 from the scheduled transmission date and time of the data terminal DT.
At the time after minutes have passed (S953; YES), if the scheduled transmission from the data terminal DT has not been received (59
55; YES), the data terminal DTJ is stored in the unreceived buffer (3957), and the unreceived frequency of the data terminal DT is calculated and stored in the unreceived frequency area of DT in the memory (S959). In this way, when the processing for the data terminal DT is completed, the value of the variable J is incremented (
5961), and similar processing is performed for the next data terminal (5953-3959). Note that various methods may be adopted as a method for calculating the frequency of non-reception. For example, how many consecutive times in the past the message was not received on time, or how many times during the past N times of scheduled transmission date and time, was the message not received on time. Also, when the above processing is completed for all data terminals managed by the CPU 91 (S963; YES)
, this timer interrupt ends. As described above, processing is performed by the CPU 41 of the copying machine, the CPU II of each pig terminal, and the CPU 91 of the center. Further, in the case of communication by scheduled transmission, the date and time data for the next scheduled transmission is set as described above and transmitted to the data terminal side.

【Effect of the invention】

As described above, the present invention determines whether or not a scheduled transmission is made on the scheduled transmission date and time for each copying machine management device to be managed, and based on the result, determines whether the transmission is not made on the date and time side. is calculated, and based on the result, the next scheduled transmission date and time of the copier management device is set. According to the present invention, it is possible to gradually reduce the possibility of not being able to connect to the central control device of the center at the scheduled transmission date and time. Therefore, data collection of each copying machine management device and furthermore, centralized management can be performed reliably.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of a system according to an embodiment;
Figure 2 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the system, Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the system.
FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the operation switch of the data terminal, FIG. 4 is an explanatory diagram of the operation panel of the copying machine to which the data terminal is connected, and FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the structure of data transmitted from the copying machine to the data terminal. Figure 6 shows the control 11 of the copying machine.
It is a flowchart which shows the processing in 1cPU. Figures 7 to 14 are flowcharts showing data terminal control [1cPU processing]. Figure 7 is the main routine, Figure 8 is the initial setting processing subroutine, and Figure 9 is the element data reception/data processing subroutine. , FIG. 10 is a trouble call determination subroutine, FIG. 11 is a warning call determination subroutine, FIG. 112 is a PM call determination subroutine, FIG. 13 is a pear-shaped processing subroutine, and FIG. 141! l indicates a redial time processing subroutine. Figure 15 - 1st
Figure 9 is a flowchart showing the processing in the control CPU of the central convenience store connected to the data terminal via the communication line network, Figure 15 is the main part of the main routine, and Figure 16 is the incoming call interrupt. FIG. 17 shows the details of the incoming call interrupt processing, FIG. 18 shows the timer interrupt processing, and FIG. 19 shows the details of the timer interrupt processing. 1...Data terminal (DT>, 4...Copy machine, 90
・ 11 ・ ・ U, 91 ・ DIP ・ Switch. 52... Dem, 53 side telephone.・Combination Niichiyo at the center. DT's CPtJ, 41...Copier's CP/Center〇C
P.U. SW1-DIP-SW4...Dip 21...Bush switch. DT side modem, 72... Center one side upper... DT side telephone, 73... Center

Claims (3)

[Claims] (1) A copying machine management device having a data collection function of the copying machine and a function of connecting to a central management device via a communication line;
In a copying machine management system comprising a central management device that performs data communication with a connected copying machine management device, the copying machine management device is connected to the central management device at a scheduled transmission date and time. The central control device has a means for performing predetermined data communication, and a means for storing scheduled transmission date and time data received when connected to the central control device as the next scheduled transmission date and time data, the central control device having a clock means; Means for storing the scheduled transmission date and time data of each copying machine management device, means for detecting a copying machine management device that does not make scheduled transmissions on the scheduled transmission date and time, and means for detecting the frequency at which scheduled transmissions are not made on the scheduled transmission date and time. A copying machine management system, comprising means for calculating for each copying machine management device, and means for setting the next scheduled transmission date and time according to the frequency and transmitting it to the copying machine management device. (2) In claim 1, when the frequency exceeds a predetermined threshold, the central control device sets the next scheduled transmission time of the copying machine management device to a time zone different from the current scheduled transmission time. Copy machine management system to be set up. (3) A centralized management device that is configured to be connectable to a large number of copying machine management devices via a communication line and performs data communication for copying machine management with the connected copying machine management devices, a clock means, a storage means for storing the scheduled transmission date and time data of each copying machine management device, a means for detecting a copying machine management device that does not make the scheduled transmission on the scheduled transmission date and time, and for each copying machine management device, A central control device comprising means for calculating the frequency at which scheduled transmissions are not made on scheduled transmission dates and times, and means for setting and transmitting the next scheduled transmission date and time of the copier management device according to the frequency.