JP2000278468A - Network copy control system, copy system copy controller, network copy control method and computer- readable medium - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To obtain a network copy control system, capable of notifying the copy system of a transmission source of the state of a copy system of a transmission destination, when a network copy is executed. SOLUTION: A printing part 116 of a destination system detects the state of a printer each time printing is performed and stores the detected operation state and supply information in a log file 121. Also, the control part 112 of the destination system reads the file 121 each time scanned data is transmitted to the part 116 and transmits a message, corresponding to the operation state and the supply information, to a transmission source system.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention performs control for transmitting image data obtained by scanning an original to one of a plurality of copy systems connected via a computer network and outputting the image data to the other. A network copy control system, a copy system that constitutes such a network copy control system, a copy control device that is a core of such a copy system, and a computer-readable program that stores a program for causing a computer to function as such a copy control device The present invention relates to a medium and a network copy control method using the network copy control system as described above.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In the past, a copy system was of a so-called analog type in which an image of a document placed on a platen was formed directly on a photosensitive drum and developed on paper using an electrophotographic process. However, with the development of digital technology in recent years, in order to enable more advanced image processing, a digital method in which an original is read as digital image data, image processing is performed as appropriate, and then printed,
Copy systems have become mainstream.

[0003] Such a digital copying system is a reading device for reading an original, a printing device for printing, and controlling these devices, appropriately processing image data received from the reading device, and transmitting the processed image data to the printing device. And a copy control device. Among them, the reading device and the printing device operate on the same principle as the scanner and the printing device used in the computer system, respectively.
Therefore, the architecture of the copy system is changed to PC-A
If it is common to a computer system such as T, a scanner or a printer can be used as the reading device and the printing device, and a general-purpose personal computer or a dedicated computer on which a print control program is installed can be used as a copy control device.

As described above, the PC-A is used as a copy control device.
When a personal computer such as T is used,
By providing the copy control device with a communication protocol such as TCP / IP and HTTPD and network hardware, a plurality of copy systems can be interconnected via a computer network such as the Internet or a LAN (local area network). become able to. As a result, image data obtained by reading a document by the reading device of one copy system is transmitted to the other copy system via a computer network, and printed on output paper by the printing device of the other copy system. It has become possible. Such copying over a long distance via a network is hereinafter referred to as “network copying”. Performing a copy using the same copy system is hereinafter referred to as “local copy”.

[0005] If such network copy becomes general, much higher image quality and higher speed than conventional facsimile,
Further, it is possible to transmit an image much more easily than when transmitting image data by personal computer communication.

[0006]

However, since the communication protocol conventionally determined in the computer network is simply an agreement for exchanging conditions for data transfer, information indicating the state of each copy system is not transmitted. They were not exchanged with each other. Therefore,
Since the copy control device of each copy system cannot recognize the status of the other copy system (the operation status of normal operation or not and the remaining amount of consumables such as ink, toner, paper, etc.), An operator who sets a document in the copy system and operates the operation panel needs to inquire the administrator of the copy system of the transmission destination about the operation state and the remaining amount of consumables every time the operator attempts to execute a network copy. was there. If this inquiry is neglected, even if the transmission source operator intends to execute the network copy, no output is actually made from the transmission destination copy system, or the output is interrupted on the way. It can happen that the original operator is completely unaware of this.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION In view of such a conventional problem, an object of the present invention is to provide a transmission copy system which notifies a transmission copy system of a status of a transmission copy system when performing a network copy. Network copy control system that can be presented to an operator of the same, a copy system that constitutes such a network copy control system, a copy control device that is the core of such a copy system, and a computer that functions as such a copy control device And a network copy control method using the above-described network copy control system.

[0008]

The present invention has the following features to attain the object mentioned above.

That is, the invention according to claim 1 comprises a plurality of copy systems connected to each other via a network, and transmits image data obtained by reading a document in a source copy system to a destination copy system. A network copy control system that performs printing on paper based on the image data in the destination copy system, wherein the source copy system reads an original and obtains image data;
A transmitting unit that transmits the image data obtained by the image reading unit to the destination copy system; and a status information presenting unit that presents status information indicating a status of the destination copy system to an operator. The destination copy system includes a reception unit that receives the image data transmitted from the transmission unit of the transmission source copy system, a printing unit that prints on paper based on the image data received by the reception unit, and It is characterized by having a state detecting unit for detecting a state of the system, and a state information notifying unit for notifying the source copy system of state information indicating the state detected by the state detecting unit.

With this configuration, when the status detection unit of the destination copy system detects the status of its own system,
The status information notification unit of the transmission destination copy system sends status information indicating the status detected by the status detection unit to the transmission source copy system at a periodic timing, a timing of a request from the transmission source copy system, or an arbitrary timing. respond. In the transmission source copy system, the status information presentation unit
The received status information is presented to the operator. For example, the content of status information can be displayed on a display placed separately from the operation panel, the content of status information can be displayed on a display placed on the touch panel, and the source copy system can be operated online Then, the status information is transmitted to the terminal connected to the transmission source copy system. As a result, the operator can know the status of the destination copy system, and can determine whether to execute, continue, or cancel the network copy after checking the status. For example, if it is determined that a normal network copy is executable, the network copy is executed as it is, and if it is determined that the normal network copy is not executable, the administrator of the destination copy system is contacted. Indicate necessary actions.

Further, even if the state of the destination system deteriorates during the execution of the network copy, the state can be immediately known. Therefore, the administrator of the destination copy system is contacted to instruct necessary measures. can do.

[0012] Here, the "system state" covers the state of all parts in the transmission destination system. For example, the status of the image reading device and the control device of the destination copy system is also targeted. However, the effect of the present invention is remarkably exhibited when the state of the printing unit including the printing apparatus is targeted. In this case, the status information notified from the transmission destination copy system to the transmission source copy system may be information on whether the printing unit is usable or unusable, or when the printing unit operates. May be information on whether the printing unit has completed printing normally or abnormally, or may be information on whether the printing unit has failed. May be information about. Further, the information may be information indicating the type of a failure that has occurred in the printing unit, or the level of the failure (that is, a minor failure that can be recovered by the administrator of the destination copy system, or the maintenance staff of the manufacturer). Information indicating that the disability is severe enough to require dispatching).

According to a second aspect of the present invention, the printing section of the first aspect has a printer for performing printing based on the image data, and the status information notifying section notifies the status of the printer as the status information. By doing so, it is specified.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the status information notifying unit according to the second aspect specifies the operation information as to whether or not the printer is operating, thereby specifying the status.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the status information notifying unit according to the second or third aspect specifies the status information by notifying information about a fault occurring in the printer as the status information.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the status information notifying section according to any one of the second to fourth aspects specifies the status information by notifying information about the amount of consumables of the printer as the status information. It is.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the state information presenting means of the first aspect is specified by having a display for displaying the state information.

The invention according to claim 7 is specified by the fact that the transmission destination copy system according to claim 1 further has a status display unit for displaying status information of the own system.

[0020] The invention according to claim 8 is specified by the fact that the status display section of claim 7 has a display for displaying the status information.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the source copy system according to the first aspect further includes a status information request unit for requesting the destination copy system for status information indicating the status of the system. A status information notification unit responds to a request from the status information request unit of the transmission source copy system,
The status information is identified by responding to the transmission source copy system. With this configuration,
It suffices that the status information notification unit of the destination copy system starts its operation at the time requested by the source copy system, so that the processing load of the destination copy system and the traffic between both copy systems can be reduced.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, the printing section of the ninth aspect has a printer for performing printing based on the image data, and the status information notifying section includes a printer of the printer detected by the status detecting section. A storage unit for recording a status as the status information, and reading out the status information recorded in the storage unit in response to a request from a status information requesting unit of the transmission source copy system, and responding to the transmission source copy system It is specified by having a response unit. With this configuration, the detection by the state detection unit and the notification by the notification unit can be asynchronous, so that the latest state information can always be stored in the storage unit while suppressing communication traffic.

[0022] According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the transmission destination copy system of the tenth aspect further comprises a status display unit for reading out and displaying the status information of the own system stored in the storage unit. , Specified. With this configuration, since the status is displayed not only in the source copy system but also in the destination copy system, the administrator of the destination copy system, which has been notified by the operator of the source copy system, An appropriate action can be taken while watching the displayed state.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, a transmission source system and a transmission destination system are connected to each other via a network, and image data obtained by reading a document in the transmission source system is transmitted to the transmission destination system. A network copy control system for performing printing on paper based on the image data in the transmission destination system, wherein the transmission source system reads an original and obtains image data; A transmission unit for transmitting the image data obtained by the transmission destination system to the transmission destination system, and state information presenting means for presenting state information indicating a state of the transmission destination system to an operator. A receiving unit that receives the image data transmitted from the transmitting unit of the original system, and a receiving unit that receives the image data. A printing unit that prints on paper based on image data, a state detection unit that detects the state of the own system, and state information indicating the state detected by the state detection unit is notified to the transmission source system. A status information notifying unit.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a copy system capable of communicating with another copy system via a network, wherein the state detection unit detects a state of the own system.
A status information notifying unit that notifies status information indicating the status detected by the status detection unit to the other copy system, and a status where the status information notified from the status information notification unit of the other copy system is presented to the operator. Information presenting means, an image reading unit for reading an original to obtain image data, a transmitting unit for transmitting the image data obtained by this image reading unit to another copy system, and a transmitting unit for transmitting the image data obtained from the other copying system. And a printing unit that prints on paper based on the image data received by the receiving unit.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, a copy system is constructed by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and a printer for performing printing based on image data read by the scanner, and other devices are connected via a network. A copy control device capable of communicating with the copy system of claim 1, wherein the state detection unit detects a state of the own system, and a state of notifying the other copy system of state information indicating the state detected by the state detection unit. An information notification unit, status information presenting means for presenting status information notified from the status information notification unit of the other copy system to an operator, and an image for obtaining the image data by causing the scanner to read the original A reading unit, and transmitting the image data obtained by the image reading unit to the another copy system. A transmitting unit and a receiving unit that receives the image data transmitted from the transmitting portion of the other copy system, characterized in that it has.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, in a plurality of copy systems connected to each other via a network, image data obtained by reading a document by a source copy system is transmitted to a destination copy system. A network copy control method in which a destination copy system prints on paper based on data, wherein the destination copy system detects a state of its own system,
It is characterized in that status information indicating the detected status is notified to the transmission source copy system, and the transmission source copy system presents the status information notified from the transmission destination copy system to the operator.

According to the present invention, a copy system is constituted by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and outputting image data and a printer for printing based on the image data, respectively, and is connected to a printer via a network. For a computer capable of communicating with the copy system, the state of the own system is detected, and state information indicating the detected state is notified to other copy systems that transmit the image data to the own system, A computer-readable medium that stores a program that causes an operator to present the status information when another copy system notifies the status information.

[0028]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS An embodiment of a network copy control system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

(Overall Configuration) FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a network copy control system according to the present embodiment. The network copy control system of the present embodiment is, for example, a LAN
Or, it is composed of a plurality of sets of copy systems 1 and 1 'and a large number (or one) of client terminals 2 mutually connected by a network NW such as the Internet. Since each of the copy systems 1 and 1 'has exactly the same configuration as each other, the following one copy system 1
Only the detailed configuration will be described. The other copy system 1 'is referred to as a "destination system" when acting as a destination copy system for a network copy with respect to the copy system 1, and is referred to as a "source system" when acting as a source copy system. Called.

The copy system 1 includes a copy server 10 as a copy control device including a dedicated computer or a general personal computer,
0 and a scanner 20 and a printer 21 respectively connected thereto.

Further, the copy server 10 includes a CPU 17, a RAM 11, an input / output control unit 12, a hard disk 13, a communication device 14, a SCSI interface 15, and a Centronics interface 16 connected to each other by a bus (data bus and system bus) B. , Touch panel 18 connected to input / output control unit 12, LCD
(Liquid Crystal Display) and a keyboard 23.

The CPU 17 is a processor (computer) that controls the entire copy server 10. The RAM 11 is a random access memory in which a work area by the CPU 17 is expanded.

The communication device 14 performs packet-based data exchange with each client terminal 2 and another copy system 1 '. As the communication interface 14, the network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network).
If k), a LAN card is used, and if the network NW is the Internet, a serial interface and a modem, a LAN card or DSU is used.

A SCSI cable connected to the scanner 20 is connected to the SCSI interface 15 to exchange data with the scanner 20 (transmission of various information and commands to the scanner 20, transmission of various information and scan data from the scanner 20). Control). A Centronics cable connected to the printer 21 is connected to the Centronics interface 16 for exchanging data with the printer 21 (transmission of various information, commands and print data to the printer 21, various information from the printer 21). Control).

The hard disk 13 as a computer-readable medium includes a control program (including an operation system program) 131 read and executed by the CPU 17 and a large number of hypertext data distributed in response to a request from the client terminal 2. (One of them is “WebCopier.html” 132) and J
The class file 133 of the ava applet is stored. These control programs and the like are stored in a CD-RO (not shown).
It is downloaded to the hard disk 13 via an M drive or the like.

An LCD (liquid crystal panel) as a display forming part of the state information presenting means and the state display unit
Reference numeral 19 is fitted on the upper surface of the housing of the copy server 10, and a touch panel 18 is overlaid on the surface. The LCD 19 is a monochrome two-tone dot matrix liquid crystal panel, which is driven by the input / output control unit 12 and displays an operation screen generated by the CPU 17.

The operation screen (basic operation screen) displayed on the LCD 19 is divided into three columns, left, right and center, as shown in FIG. In the left column, tabs (magnification, paper size, document size, output destination, memory) indicating the types of main parameters are displayed, and in the center column, the current setting contents of each parameter are displayed. Is displayed. The touch panel 18 is a pressure-sensitive area sensor superimposed on the LCD 19, and inputs a signal corresponding to a position pressed by a finger of the operator to the input control unit 12. Pressing a portion of the touch panel that overlaps each display item on the LCD 19 is simply referred to as “pressing” the display item.

As described above, when each tab on the basic operation screen is pressed, under the control of the CPU 17, options for the parameter indicated by the tab are displayed in a list in the center column. FIG. 29 shows the state of the screen when the “paper size” tab is pressed in this way. At this time, the combination of the paper size and direction displayed in the center column indicates the size and direction of each paper set in the printer 21 of the copy system currently set as the output destination.

FIG. 30 shows the state of the screen when the "output destination" tab is pressed. At this time, the system name displayed in the center column is the copy system 1
And a copy system 1 'registered in advance in the copy server 10 as being capable of network copy.

The keyboard 23 is connected to the copy server 10
The input control unit 1 includes a start key, numeric keys, and the like provided on the upper surface of the housing adjacent to the touch panel 18 and corresponding to the key pressed by the operator.
Enter 2

The input / output control unit 12 appropriately drives the LCD 19 based on the image data received from the CPU 17, and inputs a corresponding position signal to the CPU 17 by analyzing an input signal from the touch panel 18, The corresponding code signal is input to the CPU 17 by analyzing the input signal from the CPU 17.

Next, the hardware configuration of each client terminal 2 will be described with reference to FIG. 2, each client terminal 2 includes a CPU 30, a ROM 31, a RAM 32, a communication device 33, a bus controller 34, a disk drive controller (DDC) 35, a display controller 36, and an input interface 37, which are connected to each other by a bus B. , A hard disk 38 and a floppy disk drive 39 connected to a disk drive controller (DDC) 35, a display 40 connected to a display controller 36, and a keyboard 41 and a mouse 42 connected to an input interface 37. ing.

The bus controller 34 is a device that manages the state of the bus B and enables data transfer between circuits via the bus B. Disk drive controller (DD
C) 35 drives each of the disk drives 38 and 39 under the control of the CPU 30 to write data to each disk (the hard disk 38 and the floppy disk 43) and to write data to the disks (the hard disk 38 and the floppy disk 43).
Data is read from the floppy disk 43). The hard disk 38 stores an operation system program (Windows 95 (trademark) manufactured by Microsoft Corporation) executed by the CPU 30, a communication program, and a web browser.

The CPU 30 is a processor that controls the entire client device 2. Also, the RAM 32
Is a memory used as a work area of the CPU 30. The operation system program read from the hard disk 38 by the CPU 30 and the web browser 3
01 is expanded. This CPU 30 (processor)
By reading and executing the BIOS program from the ROM 31 when the power is turned on, the operating system program and the web browser are read from the hard disk 38 and loaded into the RAM 32. By executing this operation program, the entire client terminal 10 is controlled, and Packet-based communication is performed with the copy server 10 of the copy system 1.
Further, the CPU 30 executes the web browser to execute the hypertext data (“WebCopier.html” 132) stored in the server 10 and Java.
The class file 133 of the applet is downloaded onto the RAM 32, and the hypertext data (“WebC
opier.html ”132) is generated, and a Java applet is executed.

The display controller 36 has a CPU
According to the control by the CPU 30, various images are displayed on the display 40 based on the display data generated by the CPU 30. The input interface 37 encodes signals input from the mouse 42 and the keyboard 41 to thereby input information input by the user (a signal indicating a pressed key, vector information input by the mouse 42, and information input by the mouse 42). Click signal)
Enter 0. When the network NW is a LAN (Local Area Network), a LAN card is used as the communication device 33, and when the network NW is the Internet, a serial interface and a modem, a LAN card, or a DSU are used.

FIG. 3 shows that the CPU 17 of the copy server 10 of each copy system 1, 1 ′ reads out the control program 131 from the hard disk 13 and expands it in the RAM 11, and that each client terminal 2
Operating system and web browser from R
FIG. 4 is a software configuration diagram showing a relationship between each task and a program in a state where the program is developed on the AM 32. As shown in FIG. 3, the tasks executed by the CPU 17 of the copy server 10 include the network interface unit 111,
The control unit 112, the storage unit 113, the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, the network copying unit 117, and the operation panel display unit 118 are provided in a row. The tasks executed by the CPU 30 of each client terminal 2 include the web browser 301 and the communication unit 30.
2. Since communication between each of the copy servers 10 and each of the client terminals 2 is performed according to the TCP / IP protocol, a unique IP address is assigned to each of the server 10 and each of the client terminals 2 in advance. ing.

The network interface unit 111 of the copy server 10 described above
Control and TCP / IP protocol, HTTP
(Hypertext Transfer Protocol) is a task as a server terminating the server. When data (URL, various messages) stored in a packet and transmitted from the network NW is received, one of the control units 1 in an open state is received.
12 is started and these data are passed to the control unit 112.

The control unit 112 receives necessary data from the storage unit 113, the management unit 114, or the printing unit 116 according to the type of data received from the network interface unit 111, and sends the requested data to the client terminal 2 or another copy system. 1 'copy server 1
0, and necessary control (local copy control, network copy control,
Etc.) or instruct the printing unit 116 to print.

Specifically, when the control unit 112 receives the URL from the client terminal 2, the control unit 112
13 and the corresponding hypertext data ("WebCopie
r.html "132 etc.) and sends it to the requesting client terminal 2. If the control unit 112 receives a request for the Java applet class file 133 from the client terminal 2, the control unit 112 receives the request. Jav
The applet class file 133 is transmitted to the client terminal 2.

When the control unit 112 receives a request for system information from the client terminal 2, if the copy system 1 executes a local copy, the control unit 112 transmits the printer information of the printer 21 (to the printer 21). Information indicating the type, size and direction of the paper set in each set cassette or tray, and indicating whether the printer 22 is a color printer, a monochrome printer, a laser printer, or an ink jet printer. Information and other information about the functions of the printer 21), and responds to the requesting client terminal as system information. When the copy system 1 functions as a source system in a network copy, the copy system 1 requests system information to the destination system 1 ′, and transmits the system information received from the destination system 1 ′.
Responds to the requesting client terminal 2. When a system information request is received from another copy system (source system) 1 ', printer information is received from the printing unit 116 and transmitted to the source system 1' as system information.

When receiving a copy start request from the client terminal 2, the control unit 112 issues a copy start request to the management unit 114, and responds from the management unit 114 (a message indicating that copying is possible and The supply information of the printer 21 or the fact that copying is not possible and the reason thereof) are notified to the requesting client terminal 2. The supply information of the printer 21 is information indicating the remaining amounts of consumables such as printing target paper, toner of each color, and ink of each color set in the printer 21 as percentages.

When receiving a copy start confirmation request from another copy system (source system) 1 ′, the control unit 112 issues a copy start confirmation request to the management unit 114, and The returned status information indicating the status of the printer 21 (the fact that copying is possible and the supply information of the printer 21, or the fact that copying is not possible and the reason thereof) is returned to the requesting source system 1 '.

When receiving a copy start request from another copy system (source system), the control unit 112 requests the printing unit 116 to start copying. When receiving the scan data (compressed original reading data) from another copy system (source system) 1 ′, the control unit 112 decompresses the scan data and sends it to the printing unit 116. Request printing. Thereafter, until all the copying is completed, the control unit 1
12 checks the printer operation status and supply information registered in the log file 121 and detects the detected printer operation status (during printing, occurrence of a warning [that is, out of paper, out of toner, out of ink, paper jam,
Or a printer error (that is, a failure requiring repair by maintenance personnel of the manufacturer such as a halogen lamp burnout)) or the supply information described above. , To the source system 1 '.

When receiving a copy end notification from another copy system (source system) 1 ′, the control unit 112 notifies the management unit 114 of a “processing end message”.

When the control unit 112 receives the output information acquisition request from the client terminal 2, the control unit 112 transmits the log file 1 from the storage unit 113 as state information presentation means.
21 is received and the client terminal 2 of the request source is received.
Notify.

The storage section 113 is a task for accessing the data storage area of the hard disk 13 and the RAM 11 in response to a request from the control section 112, the management section 114, the image reading section 115, the printing section 116, and the network copying section 117. Specifically, the storage unit 113 sends any of the hypertext data (“WebCop
ier.html "132, etc.) or the Java applet class file 133 is requested, the requested hypertext data (" WebCopier.html "132, etc.) or the Java applet class file 133 is read from the hard disk 13. To the control unit 112.

The storage unit 113 holds a log file 121 in a data holding area of the RAM 11, and in response to a request from the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, and the network copying unit 117, 121 is appropriately updated, and the contents of the log file 121 are passed in response to a request from the control unit 112.

The log file 121 includes a “copying page number” indicating the page number of the page being copied or copied, a “copying section number” indicating the number of the copy being copied or completed, and the “copying section number” described above. Printer output status ",
Status information such as “error status” indicating the type of warning or error, and status information such as “supply information” described above are registered, respectively.

The control unit 112 and the storage unit 113
Further, when the own system 1 behaves as a destination system, it also functions as a state information notification unit. That is, the storage unit 113 stores the printing unit 116 as described later.
Manages a log file 121 in which the “operating state” and “supply information” of the printer 21 are stored. Then, the control unit 112 as a response unit sends the storage unit 113 a response to the scan data from the source system 1 ′ or the “printer status monitoring request message”.
It receives the contents of the log file and responds to the source system 1 '.

The operation panel unit 118 includes the input / output control unit 12
, And creates data of an operation screen to be displayed on the LCD 19, and instructs the input / output control unit 12 to display the operation screen based on the data. Further, when receiving the position data indicating the pressed position of the touch panel 18 from the input / output control unit 12, the display item overlapping the pressed position on the operation screen displayed on the LCD 19 at that time is specified, and the operation key is specified. A corresponding process is executed (that is, a process corresponding to the pressed display item is executed). When a signal indicating a pressed key of the keyboard 23 is received from the input / output control unit 12, a process corresponding to the type of the key is executed.

Specifically, the operation panel unit 118
If the output destination change key displayed in D19 (the name of each copy system listed in the center column when the “output destination” tab is pressed) is pressed, the management unit 11
4, a "change key press message" is transmitted, and the contents of the operation key for selecting the paper type and direction of the output destination printer in the basic screen are rewritten based on the system information responding to the "change key press message". The operation panel unit 11
Reference numeral 8 denotes a management unit 114 as a status information request unit when the start key in the keyboard 23 is pressed.
And a response from the management unit 114 (the fact that copying is possible and the printer supply information, or the fact that copying is not possible and the reason thereof) is displayed on the LCD 19 as the status information presentation unit. indicate. The operation panel unit 118 serves as a status information presentation unit and a status display unit, and stores the log file 12 in the storage unit 113.
When there is a change in the “printer operation state” or the “supply information”, the contents of the “printer operation state” and the “supply information” after the change are displayed on the screen of the LCD 19.

The management unit 114 is a task that controls the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, and the network copying unit 117 in response to a copy execution request from the control unit 112 and executes a copying operation. Specifically, when the management unit 11 receives the “change key press message” from the operation panel unit 118, if the output destination is the printer 21 of its own system, the management unit 11 sends a “system information acquisition request” to the printing unit 116. Message ", and the output destination is another copy system (destination system) 1 '.
Printer 21 transmits a system information request to the destination system 1 '. Then, the operation panel unit 1 changes the content of the operation screen displayed on the LCD 19 based on the responded system information.
Order 18.

Further, the management unit 114 includes the control unit 1
When a copy start request is received from the client terminal 2 via the communication terminal 12 or a copy start request is received from the operation panel unit 118, a copy start confirmation request is made to the image reading unit 115. In response to this, if the image reading unit 115 responds that the status is normal and stopped, if the output destination system is its own system, it issues a copy start confirmation request to the printing unit 116, and the output destination system transmits to another system ( If the destination system is 1 ', a start confirmation request is made to the network copy unit 117 as the status information request unit. When the status information indicating “OK” or “copy permitted” is returned, the management unit 114 responds to the copy start request source that the copy is permitted and the supply information, and the printing unit 116 or A copy start request is issued to the network copy unit 117, and the desired setting of the log file 121 is performed. On the other hand, if status information indicating “scanner in use or error” or “copy impossible” is notified from any of the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, and the network copying unit 117, the management is performed. The unit 114 responds to the copy start request source that copying is impossible and the reason therefor.

The management unit 114 includes the control unit 11
When a copy start confirmation request is received from another system (source system) 1 ′ via the communication unit 2, a copy start confirmation request is made to the printing unit 116 as a status information notification unit.
The response content is transferred to the request source control unit 112.

When the output destination specified by the client terminal 2 or the operation panel display unit 118 is another copy system (destination system) 1 ′, the network copy unit 117 provides a network interface of the destination system 1 ′. Operates as a client for the image reading unit 1 of the own system.
The task is to control the execution of a network copy by controlling the destination system 1 and the destination system 1 '. Specifically, when receiving a copy start confirmation request from the management unit 114, the network copy unit 117 determines the destination system 1 ′ as a status information request unit.
, And a response from the destination system 1 ′ is transferred to the management unit 114.

When receiving a copy start request from the management unit 114, the network copy unit 117 issues a copy start request to the destination system 1 ', and includes the copy parameters returned from the destination system 1'. A copy start request is transmitted to the image reading unit 115. The network copy unit 11
When the scan data (image data output by reading the document by the scanner 20) is received from the image reading unit 115, the transmission unit 7 compresses the scan data and transmits the compressed data to the destination system 1 '. .

The image reading unit 115 includes a SCSI driver for controlling the SCSI interface 15 and a scanner driver for controlling the scanner 20, and in response to a copy start confirmation request from the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115 Investigate the status by communicating and check the result ("OK" or "in use or error")
Is reported to the management unit 114.

Further, the image reading unit 115 includes a printing unit 116.
When a copy start request is received from the user (when a local copy is executed) or when a copy start request is received from the network copy unit 117 (when a network copy is executed), the scanner 20 is controlled and its scanning unit ( An original set on a flatbed or a feeder is scanned for a predetermined number of lines, and image data (scan data) obtained by this scanning is transferred to the printing unit 116 or the network copying unit 117 that has issued the request.

The printing unit 116 includes a Centronics driver for controlling the Centronics interface 16 and a printer driver for controlling the printer 21. A system information acquisition request from the management unit 114 (when executing local copying) Or control unit 1
When the system information acquisition request is received from the management unit 1, the system information of the printer 21 is
14 or the controller 112.

The printing unit 116 is provided by the management unit 1
When a copy start confirmation request is received from the printer 14, the status detection unit communicates with the printer 21 to detect the status, and detects the detected status information ("OK" and supply information, or "in use"). Or "error" and the reason)
Is reported to the management unit 114.

The printing unit 116 is provided with the management unit 1
When a copy start request is received from the user (when executing a local copy), a copy start request with copy parameters is transmitted to the image reading unit 115, and the image reading unit 115 responds to the request. The read scan data is converted into print data and output to the printer 21. On the other hand, when receiving a copy start request from another copy system (source system) via the control unit 112 (when executing a network copy), the printing unit 116 sends a copy parameter to the request source control unit 112. , And sends the scan data transmitted from the source system in accordance with the response.
When the data is received via the printer, the received scan data is converted into print data and output to the printer 21.

On the other hand, the communication section 302 of the client terminal 2
Controls the network adapter 33 and
This is a task for terminating the P / IP protocol and HTTP (Hypertext Transfer Protocol), and includes data (hypertext data [“WebCopier.html” 132) stored in a packet and transmitted from the network NW.
, Etc.), the class file of the Java applet, the record information of the copy operation read from the log file 121, and other information) are passed to the web browser 301, and the web browser 301 (or activated on the web browser 301). Java Applet 133)
(URL, various messages) transmitted from the server to the server 10 are stored in a packet and transmitted to the network NW.

The web browser 301 sends various data (UR) to the communication unit 302 in accordance with an instruction input from the operator via the mouse 42 and the keyboard 41.
L, various messages). Also, URL
The image is displayed on the display 40 in accordance with the hypertext (“WebCopier.html” 132 or the like) downloaded from any of the servers according to (1). In addition, each class file of the Java applet transmitted by the server 10 in response to the request is expanded in the RAM 32 to reproduce the Java applet (program) 133, and
The image generated by the ava applet 133 is displayed.

In the hypertext data, particularly, “WebCopier.html” 132 includes an applet class file name for specifying a class file of the Java applet 133 and an area for displaying an image generated by the Java applet 133. Information to secure,
Also, the definition of the parameters given to the Java applet 133 is included. Web browser 301
Is the copy server 10 of one of the copy systems 1 and 1 '.
The URL corresponding to “WebCopier.html” 132 in “WebCopier.html” 132 is transmitted from the copy server 10 to “WebCopier.html” 1
When the Java applet 133 and the class file of the Java applet 133 are downloaded, the started Java applet 133 communicates with the copy server 10 of the download source, and makes a copy request only to the copy server 10 of the download source. I do.

FIG. 31 shows that the web browser 301
bCopier.html ”132 and an image displayed on the display 40 according to the Java applet 133 (WebCopier
The basic screen 50) of FIG. The basic screen 50 includes a copy number setting area 51, a copy capacity setting area 52, a key area 53, an output destination setting area 54, and a status area 5.
5 is divided. This copy number setting area 51
Indicates an area in which a button for specifying the type of scanning unit (flatbed, ADF, etc.) of the scanner 20 of the copy system 1, a button for setting a copy magnification, a box for setting the number of copies, and the like are displayed. It is. Further, the copy capacity setting area 52 indicates whether the image quality is the standard image quality or the high image quality, the color adjustment, the monochrome image or the color image,
This is an area for setting etc. Also, the key area 53
Is an area where a copy start button 531 for instructing a copy start and the like are displayed.

The output destination setting area 54 has an output destination designation box 541 for setting the output destination system (whether it is a local copy or another copy system 1 'in a network copy). A group of paper selection buttons (including an automatic selection button 542a) 542 and an automatic selection button for specifying which of the trays and cassettes mounted on the printer 21 of the destination system should be used for printing. 54
This area displays a paper size setting box 543 for setting the paper size and direction when the button 2a is pressed, a paper type setting box 544 for setting the paper type, and the like.

The status area 55 indicates whether copying is not possible or not, the reason why copying is not possible, the supply information of the printer 21 during the copying operation, the number of copies being made, and the number of pages. Is an area for displaying each.

The basic screen is a Windows 95
(A trademark of Microsoft Corporation) or MacOS (a trademark of Apple Computer) according to a graphical user interface generally used, and the cursor moved by the operation of the mouse 42 by the operator is changed to any button. Alternatively, when the click button of the mouse 42 is pressed in a state where the mouse 42 overlaps the key, a command corresponding to the button or key on which the cursor is overlaid is specified by the Java applet, and the Java applet 133 is specified in accordance with the specified command. Performs a predetermined process. Note that the pressing of the click button of the mouse 42 with the cursor over any key or button in this manner is hereinafter referred to as "clicked" or "pressed" for that key or button. .

(Processing by Each Task) Next, the operation of each task and each program described above will be described in order.

<Web Browser> First, the processing executed by the web browser 301 in each client terminal 2 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
The following description focuses on the case where the URL is input. The web browser 301 is operated by the operator using “WebCopie
When the URL of “r” is input, in S001, this URL is transmitted to any one of the copy systems 1 via the communication unit 302.
To the copy server 10. The copy system 1 to which the URL is transmitted is hereinafter referred to as a source system.

In response to the transmission of the URL, the copy server 10 of the source system 1 transmits the hypertext “WebCop
ier.html ”, the web browser 301
Receives the hypertext data “WebCopier.html” in S302.

Next, the web browser 301 executes S00
3, the received hypertext data "WebCop
ier.html ”, a Java applet image display area is secured, and the class file of the Java applet whose applet class file name is specified in the hypertext data“ WebCopier.html ”is transmitted via the communication unit 302. A request is made to the copy server 10 of the source system 1.

Next, in S004, the browser 301 waits for completion of reception of all the class files of the requested Java applet. When all the class files have been received, the web browser 301 restores the Java applet 133 from the received all class files in S005, and activates the Java applet 133. After the above, the web browser 301 continues normal processing.

<Java Applet> Next, in this embodiment, the Java whose applet class file name is specified in the hypertext data “WebCopier.html”
The processing by the va applet 133 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

The Java applet 133 started in S005 initializes various parameters required for execution of processing in S101, and then displays the basic screen 50 of “WebCopier” in the display screen of the web browser 301 in S102. indicate.

In the next S103, the Java applet 1
33 designates the output destination copy system 1, 1 'selected as the output destination at that time for the copy server 10 of the source system 1, and designates the "system" for the output destination copy system 1, 1'. Information (server information, printer status, scanner status, copy capability) request message "is transmitted.

In the next S104, the Java applet 1
33 is a response to the message transmission in S103 (S
309), and if a response is received, the process proceeds to S105.
Proceed to In this S105, the Java applet 13
Reference numeral 3 denotes a copy number setting area 51 and a copy capacity setting area 52 in the basic screen 50 based on the received system information.
And the output destination setting area 54 is redrawn. For example, if the source system 1 is capable of color copying in the copy capability setting area 52, buttons for selecting color and monochrome are displayed in S102, but the changed output destination systems 1, 1 'are displayed. Are not available in S105, these buttons are disabled in S105. In the paper selection button group 542 displayed in the output destination setting area 54, only a button indicating a tray or a cassette mounted on the printer 21 of the output destination systems 1, 1 'and an automatic selection button 542a are displayed. In the paper size setting box 543, only combinations of all papers and sizes set in each tray and cassette of the printer 21 are displayed.

In the next S106, the Java applet 1
Reference numeral 33 denotes the basic screen 5 of the operator of the client terminal 2.
Wait for clicking on any item in 0. And
When the operator clicks any item, Java
In the next step S107, the applet 133 checks whether the clicked item is the copy start button 531. If the copy start button 531 has not been clicked, the Java applet 133
In the next step S108, it is checked whether any output destination system name has been clicked in the output destination specification box 541 to change the output destination system.
Then, when the name of the output destination system different from the previous output destination is clicked, the Java applet 1
The process returns to S103 to transmit a system information request for the output destination system after the change. On the other hand, if the name of the output destination system is not clicked in the output destination specification box 541 to change the output destination, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S10
In step 9, after executing the process corresponding to the clicked item, the process returns to S106.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S107 that the copy start button 531 has been clicked, Ja
The va applet 133 advances the process to S110. In S110, the Java applet 133 transmits a “copy start request message” for requesting execution of a copy operation to the copy server 10 of the source system 1 via the communication unit 302. The “copy start request message” includes items set on the basic screen, for example,
The number of copies set in the copy area setting area 51,
The name of the output destination system, the output destination cassette, and the size and direction of the output paper set in the output destination setting area 54 are included as copy parameters.

The Java applet 133 executes the following S11
In step 1, the process waits for a response from the copy server 10 to the message transmission in step S110, and upon receiving the response, the process proceeds to step S112. In step S112, the Java applet 133 checks whether the received response includes information indicating that a copy operation is possible or not. If the response indicates that copying is not possible (see S317), the Java applet 133 displays in S121 the status indicating that copying is not possible in the status area 514 of the basic screen 51 in S121. Show the reason. S121
After the completion of the processing, the Java applet 133 executes the processing in S10
Return to 6.

On the other hand, if the response indicates that a copy operation is possible (see S316), Ja is performed.
In step S113, the va applet 133 opens a dialog box shown in FIG. 32 on the display 40 to display that the copy operation has started.

In the next S114, the Java applet 1
33 starts a timer (software timer) that times out every predetermined period. In the next S115, J
The ava applet 133 waits for the timer to time out. When the timer times out, Ja
In the next S116, the va applet 133 executes the S1
In order to request a notification of the progress status of the copy operation in response to the “copy start request message” in step 12, the output destination “copy progress information acquisition request message” is transmitted to the copy server 10 via the communication unit 302.

In the next step S117, the Java applet 1
33 waits for a response from the copy server 10 to the message transmission in S116 (see S341), and upon receiving a response, advances the processing to S118. In this S118,
The Java applet 133 displays the received copy progress information (contents of the log file 121) in the status display area 55 in the basic screen 50. Specifically, FIG.
33, the number of copies being made, the number of pages being copied, and the output status of the printer ("in copying" in the example of FIG. 33) are displayed. If the printer output status is "warning occurred" or "abnormal termination", the reason is also displayed.

In the next step 119, the Java applet 13
Step 3 checks whether the copy operation has been completed based on whether the “printer operation status” in the copy progress information received in S117 is “normal end” or “abnormal end”. If the copy operation has not been completed, the Java applet 133 proceeds to S114
Return to On the other hand, when the copy operation has been completed, the Java applet 133 advances the processing to S120.

At S120, the Java applet 1
Reference numeral 33 displays the copy result on the display screen of the web browser 301. Specifically, if the “printer operation status” in the copy progress information received in S117 is “normally completed”, a dialog box shown in FIG. 34 is opened to inform that the copy has been normally completed. indicate. If the "printer operation status" in the copy progress information received in S117 is "abnormal end", a dialog box shown in FIG. 35 is opened to display that the copy has abnormally ended. In any case, the Java applet 133 then returns the process to S106 and waits for the operator to click on the next item.

As described above, the Java applet 1
33 is S10 until the web browser 301 ends.
When the web browser 301 terminates by repeating the processes of 3 and below, the web browser 301 is deleted from the RAM 32 without being saved on the hard disk 38.

<Network interface section>
The processing executed by the network interface unit 111 on the copy server 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. As shown in FIG. 7, in S201, the network interface unit 111 receives a packet from any one of the client terminals 2 or the copy server 10 (the network copy unit 117) of the other copy system 1 via the network NW. Wait for. When any of the packets is received, in S202, any of the control units 112 in an empty state is selected based on the control unit management table stored in the RAM 11. This control unit management table includes, as shown in FIG.
It is a table for managing whether each of the 25 control units 112 is currently in an empty state or in a busy state.

In the next S203, the network interface unit 111 executes the control unit 112 selected in S202.
, The information recorded in the control unit management table is changed from “empty state” to “busy state”.

In the next step S204, the network interface unit 111 extracts a message from the packet received in step S201 and notifies the control unit 112 selected in step S202. Upon completing S204, the network interface unit 111 returns the processing to S201 and waits for the next packet.

<Control Unit> Next, the processing by each control unit 112 will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. Immediately after activation, each control unit 112 executes S30
At 1, the reception of a message (S 204) from the network interface unit 111 is awaited.

Upon receiving the message from the network interface unit 111, the control unit 112 checks the type of the received message in S302.
And the received message is "WebCopier" UR
If L (S001), the control unit 112 advances the process from S302 to S303. In step S303, the control unit 112 sets the hypertext data “WebCop
ier.htlm ”from the storage unit 113 and the client terminal 2 (the web browser 301) requesting it.
Send to After that, in S342, the control unit 112 changes its own information recorded in the control unit management table (that is, information corresponding to the use control unit number passed from the network interface unit 111) to “busy state”.
Is rewritten to “empty state”, and the process returns to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
If the message received from No. 1 is a “class file request message (see S003)” of the Java applet, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S304.
The requested class file is received from the storage unit 113, and the client terminal 2 requesting the class file is sequentially requested.
(Web browser 301). After that, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S342, and then returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
1 receives the message from client terminal 2
If the message is a “system information request message (see S103)” from the ava applet 133, the control unit 1
In step S12, the process proceeds from step S302 to step S305. This S
In 305, the control unit 112 executes the Java applet 13
It is checked whether the copy system designated as the output destination from 3 is the own system 1 or another copy system 1 '. Then, the copy system of the output destination is the own system 1
In step S306, a "system information acquisition request message" is transmitted to the printing unit 116. On the other hand, if the copy system of the output destination is another copy system (destination system) 1 ', in step S307, the copy system is linked to the designated destination system 1', and the destination system 1 'is linked. Network interface part 1
11 transmits a system information request packet.

In any case, the control unit 112
In the next step S308, the printing unit 116 or the control unit 112 of the destination system 1 'transmits the "system information acquisition request message" or "system information request packet".
Wait for a response to be sent. When the system information is returned from the printing unit 116 or the control unit 112 of the output destination copy system 1 '(S803, S3
12), the control unit 112 executes the processing from S308 to S3.
Proceed to 09.

In S309, the control unit 112 transmits the system information responded in S308 to the requesting Java applet 133 (see S104). After that, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S342, and then returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
1 receives a “system information request message (S30) from the control unit 112 or the management unit 114 of another copy system (source system) 1 ′.
7, S505)).
Proceeds from S302 to S310. This S31
At 0, the control unit 112 transmits a “system information acquisition request message” to the printing unit 116. Next S3
At 11, the control unit 112 waits for the printing unit 116 to transmit a response to the “system information acquisition request message”. When the system information is returned from the printing unit 116 (see S803), the control unit 112
The process proceeds from S311 to S312.

In S312, the control unit 112 responds to the request source control unit 112 or the management unit 114 of the source system 1 'with the system information received from the printing unit 116. Thereafter, the control unit 112 proceeds to S342
, After rewriting its own information recorded in the control section management table from "busy state" to "empty state", the process returns to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
1 received from Java applet 13
If the received message is a “copy start request message” (see S110) from the control unit 3, the control unit 112 proceeds to S3.
The process proceeds from S02 to S313. In this step S313, the control unit 112 transfers a “copy start request message” to the management unit 114. In the next step S314, the control unit 112 waits for the management unit 114 to transmit a response to the “copy start request message”.
If there is a response from the management unit 113 (see S513, S517, and S520), the control unit 11
In step S2, the process advances from step S314 to step S315.

In S315, the control unit 112 determines in S314
It is checked whether or not the response received from the management unit 114 includes that copying is possible or that copying is not possible. Then, if it is included that copying is possible (S513, S51
7) In step S316, the control unit 112 replies to the Java applet 133 that copying is possible. On the other hand, if it is determined that copying is not possible (S520), the control unit 112 has included in the response from the management unit 114 that copying is impossible in S317. Along with the reason that copying is impossible,
Responds to Java applet 133. After giving any reply, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S342, and then proceeds to S30.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
1 is a "copy start confirmation request message (see S603)" from the network copy unit 117 of the other copy system (source system) 1 '.
If so, the control unit 112 advances the process from S302 to S318. In S318, the control unit 112
Transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the management unit 114. In the next step S319, the control unit 112 waits for the management unit 114 to transmit a response to the “copy start confirmation request message”. Then, if a response is received from the management unit 114 (see S536), the control unit 112 proceeds to S3
The process proceeds from S19 to S320.

In S320, the control unit 112 determines in S319
It is checked whether the response from the management unit received at step 1 contains "OK" or "printer in use or error". And "O
K ”is included (S536, S8
07) In step S321, the control unit 112 replies to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 'together with the supply information of the printer 21 included in the response from the management unit 114. . On the other hand, "Printer in use or error"
Is included (S536, S80
6) In step S322, the control unit 112 responds to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 'that the copy is not possible, together with the reason for the copy failure included in the response from the management unit 114. I do.
After giving any reply, the control unit 112 proceeds to S342
, After rewriting its own information recorded in the control section management table from "busy state" to "empty state", the process returns to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
If the message received from S1 is a “copy start request message (see S606)” from the network copy unit 117 of another copy system (source system) 1 ′, the control unit 112 proceeds from S302 to S302.
Proceed to 323. In S323, the control unit 112
A “copy start request message” is sent to the printing unit 116.
Send In the next step S324, the control unit 112 sends a response to the "copy start request message" to the printing unit 116.
Wait for the to send. If a response is received from the printing unit 116 (see S821), the control unit 112
Advances the process from S324 to S325.

In S325, the control unit 112 transmits a copy start request to which the copy parameter included in the response from the printing unit 116 is added, to the network copying unit 117 of the source system 1 '. After that, the control unit 112 rewrites its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state” in S342, and then returns the processing to S301.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
If the message received from the first copy system is scan data (for a predetermined line) compressed from the network copy unit 117 of the other copy system (source system) 1 '(see S610), the control unit 112 proceeds to S30.
The process proceeds from S2 to S326. In this S326, the control unit 1
Reference numeral 12 decompresses the received scan data in the JPEG format to decompress it into RGB bitmap data. In the next step S327, the control unit 112 transmits the scan data in the RGB bitmap format obtained by decompressing in step S326 to the printing unit 116. S327
After the completion of the process, the control unit 112 causes the process to proceed to S329.

On the other hand, the network interface unit 11
If the message received from the first printer 1 is a “printer status monitoring request message (see S616)” from the network copy unit 117 of another copy system (source system) 1 ′, the control unit 112 proceeds to S30.
Proceed from S2 to S328. In S328, the control unit 1
12 transmits the dummy data to the printing unit 116 instead of the scan data. After completion of S328, control unit 112 causes the process to proceed to S329.

In S329, the control unit 112 determines in S327
It is checked whether or not the printing unit 116 has transmitted a print end message for one sheet as a response to the scan data transmitted in step S328 or the dummy data transmitted in step S328. When the printing unit 116 has transmitted a print end message for one sheet (S827, S83).
In step S330, the control unit 112 notifies the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 'of a "print end message for one sheet".

On the other hand, if the printing unit 116 has not sent the “printing end message for one sheet”, the control unit 112 proceeds to step S 331 to change the current “ The status of the printer 21 is checked based on the “printer operation status” (see S826). If “printing” is registered, in step S332, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 ′ notifies the network copy unit 117 of the current “supply” registered in the log file 121. Information ".

Also, "out of paper", "out of ink",
If the “printer operation state” and “warning” are registered together with a warning cause such as “out of toner” or “paper jam”, the control unit 112 sends a “warning detection message” to the management unit 114 in S333. Is transmitted to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 ′ in S334 (including the name of the cause of the warning).
If the warning cause that has once occurred has disappeared, the control unit 112 transmits a “normal recovery message” to the management unit 114 in S336, and the network copy of the source system 1 ′ is performed in S335. The module 117 is notified of normal return. If “printer operation state” and “abnormal termination” are registered together with the error reason name such as “halogen lamp out”, the control unit 112 sends an “error detection message” to the management unit 114 in S337. In step S338, an error notification (including an error reason name) is transmitted to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 ′. These S330, S332,
When S334, S336, and S338 are completed, the control unit 1
In step S342, the control unit 12 changes its own information recorded in the control unit management table from “busy state” to “empty state”
Then, the process returns to S301.

<Operation Panel Unit> Next, the operation panel unit 11
8 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The operation panel unit 118 is operated in S40 immediately after startup.
1, the basic operation screen shown in FIG.
Display above. In S401, "local printer" indicating the printer 21 of the own system is displayed in the center column on the basic operation screen.

In the next step S402, the operation panel section 118
Checks whether the touch panel 18 has been pressed. If the touch panel 18 has not been pressed at all, the operation panel unit 18 proceeds to S
Proceed to 414. On the other hand, when the touch panel 18 is pressed, the operation panel unit 118 determines in S403 that the pressed position on the touch panel 18 is
A check is made as to which item in the screen displayed at 9 corresponds.

If it is determined in step S403 that the output destination change key has been pressed, the operation panel unit 118 proceeds to step S405.
, The copy system selected by the output destination change key is set as the output destination system, and a “change key press message” is transmitted to the management unit 114. The operation panel unit 118 determines in step S406 that S
Management unit 11 for message transmission at 405
Wait for a response from S4 (see S507), and upon receipt of the response, the process proceeds to S407. In step S407, the operation panel unit 118 displays the LC based on the received system information.
The list display item in the center column when the “paper size” tab in the basic operation screen displayed on D19 is pressed is changed. Upon completion of S407, operation panel unit 118 causes the process to proceed to S414.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S403 that the start key in the keyboard 23 has been pressed,
The operation panel unit 118 advances the process to S408. In step S408, the operation panel unit 118 transmits a “copy start request message” for requesting execution of a copy operation.
The information is transmitted to the management unit 114. The “copy start request message” includes, as copy parameters, items set on the basic screen, for example, the number of copies, the name of the output destination system, the output destination tray, and the size and direction of the output paper. I have.

In the next step S409, the operation panel unit 118 waits for a response from the management unit 114 to the message transmission in S408, and receives the response (S5).
26, S530, and S533), and the process proceeds to S410. If the response indicates that copying is not possible (see S533), the operation panel unit 118
Displays the fact that the copy operation is not possible and the reason for that on the LCD 19 in S413. After the completion of S413, the operation panel unit 118 advances the process to S414.

On the other hand, if the response indicates that the copy operation is possible (see S526 and S530), the operation panel unit 118 determines in step S411 that the LC
The fact that copying is possible is displayed together with the supply information of the printer 21 included in the response received from the management unit 114 on the basic screen on D19. After the completion of S411, the operation panel unit 118 advances the process to S414.

In S414, the operation panel unit 118 displays the log file 121 stored in the storage unit 113.
Check for changes in content. That is, this log file 1
The contents of "printer operation state" and "supply information" in 21 are checked, and it is checked whether or not the contents have changed from the contents at the time when S414 was executed last time. If the contents of the log file 121 have not changed,
The process returns to S402 as it is. On the other hand, if the content of the log file 121 has changed, the operation panel unit 118 determines in step S415 that the log file 121 has changed.
Is displayed on the LCD 19. After the completion of S416,
The operation panel unit 118 returns the process to S402.

<Management Unit> Next, the processing by the management unit 114 will be described with reference to FIGS. Immediately after activation, the management unit 114 executes the control unit 112 and the operation panel unit 1 in S501.
18. Waiting for reception of a message from network copy unit 117.

Upon receiving any message, the management unit 114 checks the type of the received message in S502. Then, the operation panel unit 11
When the management unit 114 receives the “change key press message (see S405)” from S8, the management unit 114 proceeds to S503.
In, based on the output destination system name added to the "change key press message", it is checked whether or not the specified output destination system is its own system. Then, when the output destination system is its own system (see S405), the management unit 114 determines in S504
A “system information acquisition request message” is transmitted to the printing unit 116. On the other hand, if the specified output destination system is another copy system (destination system) 1 ', the management unit 114
At 505, a link is established with the designated destination system 1 ', and a "system information request packet" is transmitted to the network interface unit 111 of the destination system 1'.

In any case, the management unit 1
14 waits for the printing unit 116 or the control unit 112 of the destination system 1 'to send a response to the "system information acquisition request message" in the next step S506. Then, the printing unit 116 or the control unit 112 of the destination system 1 'sends system information (S
804 and S312), the management unit 114 advances the process from S506 to S507. In S507, the management unit 114 transmits the system information responded in S506 to the operation panel unit 118. After the completion of S507, the management unit 114 proceeds to S5 to wait for the next message.
Return to 01.

On the other hand, if a “copy start request message (see S 313)” is received from any of the control units 112,
If it is determined in 502, the management unit 114
Advances the process to S508. In step S508, the management unit 114 transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 to request confirmation of whether the scanner 20 is currently idle.

In the next step S509, the management unit 114
Is the image reading unit 1 for the message transmission in S508.
Wait for a response from 15. When a response is received from the image reading unit 115, if the response includes a message “scanner in use or error” (see S704), the process proceeds to S520, and a message “OK” is included. If yes (see S705), the process proceeds to S510.

At S510, the management unit 114
It is checked whether the output destination system specified in the “copy start request message” received from the control unit 112 is the own system 1 or another copy system 1 ′.
Then, if the output destination system is the own system, the process proceeds to S.
If the output destination system is another copy system (destination system) 1 ′, the process proceeds to S 515.
Proceed to 511.

In S515, the management unit 114
A “copy start confirmation request message” is transmitted to the printing unit 116 to request confirmation of whether the printer 21 is currently idle.

In the next S516, the management unit 114
Is the print unit 116 for the message transmission in S515.
Wait for a response from. Then, when a response is received from the printing unit 116, if the response includes "printer in use or error" (see S806), the process proceeds to S5.
20 and if "OK" is included (S80
7), the process proceeds to S517. In S517,
The management unit 114 indicates that “copying is possible”
Printer 2 included in the response received in S516
A response is sent to the requesting control unit 112 together with the 1 supply information. In the next S518, the management unit 11
No. 4 attaches the copy parameter included in the “copy start request message” received from the control unit 112 to the printing unit 116, and assigns the “copy start request message”
Send After the completion of S518, the management unit 114
Advances the process to S519.

On the other hand, in S511, the management unit 114 sends a request to the network copy unit 117.
To request whether or not the printer 21 of the destination system is currently vacant, a “copy start confirmation request message” with the designation of the destination system is transmitted.

In the next S512, the management unit 114
Waits for a response from the network copy unit 117 to the message transmission in S511. When a response is received from the network copy unit 117, the response includes a message that "copying is impossible" (S32).
In step S 520, the process proceeds to step S 520, and if “copy is possible” is included (S 321, S 6)
05), the process proceeds to S513. In step S513, the management unit 114 notifies the control unit 112 of the request source that "copy is possible" together with the supply information of the printer 21 included in the response received in step S512.
Respond to In the next step S514, the management unit 114 sends a “copy start request message” received from the control unit 112 to the network copy unit 117.
And sends a "copy start request message" with the copy parameter included in the "." After the completion of S514, the management unit 114 advances the processing to S519.

In step S519, the management unit 114
It requests the storage unit 113 to initialize the log file 121. At this time, “1” is set to “number of pages being copied” in the log file 121, “1” is set to “number of copies being made”, and “in operation” is set to “printer operation state”. , "None" is set in the "error information", and the supply information of the printer 21 included in the response received in S512 or S516 is set in the "Supply information". On the other hand, in S520, the management unit 1
14 responds to the requesting control section 112 to the effect that "copying is impossible" together with the reason (scanner in use, scanner error, printer in use, or printer error). In any case, the management unit 1
In step S501, the process proceeds to step S501 to wait for the next message.
Return to

On the other hand, if a "copy start request message (see S408)" is received from the operation panel section 118, the process proceeds to S5.
02, the management unit 114 determines
The process proceeds to S521. In S521, the management unit 114 transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 to request confirmation of whether the scanner 20 is currently empty.

In the next S522, the management unit 114
Is the image reading unit 1 for the message transmission in S521.
Wait for a response from 15. Then, when a response is received from the image reading unit 115, if the response includes a message “scanner in use or error” (see S704), the process proceeds to S533, and a message “OK” is included. If yes (see S705), the process proceeds to S523.

At S523, the management unit 114
It is checked whether the output destination system specified in the “copy start request message” received from the operation panel unit 118 is the own system 1 or another copy system 1 ′. Then, if the output destination system is the own system 1, the process proceeds to S528, and if the output destination system is another copy system (destination system) 1 ', the process proceeds to S524.

At S528, the management unit 114
A “copy start confirmation request message” is transmitted to the printing unit 116 to request confirmation of whether the printer 21 is currently idle.

In the next S529, the management unit 114
Is the print unit 116 for the message transmission in S528.
Wait for a response from. Then, when a response is received from the printing unit 116, if the response includes "printer in use or error" (see S806), the process proceeds to S5.
33, and when "OK" is included (S80
7), the process proceeds to S530. In S530,
The management unit 114 indicates that “copying is possible”
Printer 2 included in the response received in S529
A response is made to the operation panel section 118 together with the supply information of No. 1. In the next S531, the management unit 114
Transmits a "copy start request message" to the printing unit 116 with the copy parameters included in the "copy start request message" received from the operation panel unit 118. After the completion of S531, the management unit 1
14 advances the processing to S532.

On the other hand, in S524, the management unit 114 sends a message to the network copy unit 117.
In order to request whether the printer 21 of the destination system 1 'is currently vacant, a "copy start confirmation request message" with the designation of the destination system 1' is transmitted.

In the next S525, the management unit 114
Waits for a response from the network copy unit 117 to the message transmission in S524. When a response is received from the network copy unit 117, the response includes a message that "copying is impossible" (S32).
2, S605), the process proceeds to S533, and the fact that “copying is possible” is included (S321, S6)
05), the process proceeds to S526. In S526, the management unit 114 responds to the operation panel unit 118 that "copy is possible" together with the supply information of the printer 21 included in the response received in S525. In the next S527, the management unit 1
14 transmits a “copy start request message” to the network copy unit 117 with the copy parameters included in the “copy start request message” received from the operation panel unit 118. After the completion of S527, the management unit 114 advances the processing to S532.

In S532, the management unit 114
As in step S519, the storage unit 113 is requested to initialize the log file 121. On the other hand, in S533,
The management unit 114 responds to the operation panel unit 118 to the effect that "copying is impossible" together with the reason (scanner in use, scanner error, printer in use, printer error). In any case, the management unit 114 returns the process to S501 to wait for the next message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S502 that a “copy start confirmation request message (see S318)” has been received from any of the control units 112, the management unit 1
In step S534, the process advances to step S534. In this S534,
The management unit 114 transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the printing unit 116. Next S53
In 5, the management unit 114 waits for a response of the printing unit 116 to the message in S534. Then, when a response (including “Printer in use or error” or “OK”) is received from the printing unit 116 (S
806 and S807), the management unit 114
Transfers the response received from the printing unit 16 in S535 to the control unit 112 that transmitted the "copy start confirmation request message" in S536. S536
Is completed, the management unit 114 returns the process to S501 to wait for the next message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S502 that the “warning detection message (see S333, S613)” has been received from any of the control units 112 or the network copy unit 117, the management unit 114 proceeds to S537. Proceed to In S537, the management unit 114 transmits a “processing temporary stop message” to the operating parts (the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, the network copying unit 117, etc.) in the own system 1. In the next S538, the management unit 114
In the storage unit 113, the "printer operation status" in the log file 121 is reset to "warning", and the content of the warning (cause name) is added to the "error information".
Write. After completion of S538, the management unit 114
Returns the process to S501 to wait for the next message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S502 that a “normal recovery detection message (see S335 and S619)” has been received from any of the control units 112 or the network copy unit 117, the management unit 114 executes the processing. Proceed to S539. In S539, the management unit 114 transmits a “processing continuation message” to the part of the system 1 that is temporarily suspended. Next S54
At 0, the management unit 114 resets the “printer operation state” in the log file 121 to “operating” in the storage unit 113 and resets the “error information” to “none”. After the completion of S540, the management unit 114 executes the processing to wait for the next message.
Return to 501.

On the other hand, an error detection message (S
337, S620) ”, the management unit 114 determines in S502 that the process has been performed in S5.
Proceed to 41. In this S541, the management unit 11
Reference numeral 4 denotes operating parts (the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116, the network copying unit 11
7, etc.) is transmitted. In the next step S542, the management unit 114 resets the “printer operation status” in the log file 121 to “abnormal termination” in the storage unit 113, and also describes the error content (reason name) in “error information”. Write. S5
After the completion of 42, the management unit 114 returns the process to S501 to wait for the next message.

<Network Copy Unit> Next, the processing by the network copy unit 117 will be described with reference to FIGS. 19 and 20. This network copy unit 117
Immediately after startup, in step S601, it waits for reception of a message from the management unit 114 and the image reading unit 115.

Upon receiving any message, the network copy unit 117 checks the type of the received message in S602. Then, the management unit 114 issues a “copy start confirmation request message (S5
11, see S524) ”, the network copy unit 117 advances the processing to S603. In step S603, the network copy unit 117 links with the destination system 1 'specified in the "copy start confirmation request message", and sends a "copy start confirmation" to the network interface unit 111 of the destination system 1'. Request packet ".

At the next step S604, the network copy unit 117 waits for a response from the destination system 1 'to the packet transmission at step S603. Then, the response from the destination system 1 '(S321,
If there is (Step S322), the network copy unit 117 proceeds to the next Step S605.
14, the response received from the destination system 1 'in S604 is transferred. After the completion of S605, the network copying unit 117 returns the processing to S601 to wait for the next message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S602 that a copy start request message (see S514 and S527) has been received from the management unit 114, the network copy unit 117 advances the processing to S606. This S60
In 6, the network copy unit 117 links with the output destination system (destination system) 1 'designated by the "copy start request message", and sends a " A "copy start request packet" is transmitted.

In the next step S607, the network copy unit 117 waits for a response from the destination system 1 'to the packet transmission in step S606. If there is a response (see S325) from the destination system 1 ', the network copy unit 117
Transfers the copy start request attached with the copy parameter received from the destination system 1 ′ in S607 to the management unit 114 in the next S608. After the completion of S608, the network copy unit 117 performs processing in S60 to wait for the next message.
Return to 1.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S602 that the page information (see S716) has been received from the image reading unit 115, the network copy unit 117 stores the number of copies and the number of pages in the received page information in S609. Then, the process returns to S601 to wait for the next message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S602 that the scan data (image data obtained by reading the original by the scanner 20; see S718) has been received from the image reading unit 115, the network copying unit 117
The process proceeds to S610. In S610, the network copy unit 117 performs JPEG compression on the scan data received from the image reading unit 115, and sends the compressed scan data to the network interface unit 111 of the specified output destination system (destination system) 1 '. Send the packet containing the data.

At the next step S611, the network copy unit 117 waits for a response from the output destination system 1 'to the packet transmission at step S610. Then, the response from the output destination system 1 '(S330, S332, S334, S3
36, S338), the network copy unit 117 checks the contents of the response in the next S612. If the content of the response is a notification of “printing” (refer to S332), the network copy unit 117 proceeds to S622 to execute the log file 121
The “supply information” in the table is updated with the notified supply information. After the completion of S622, the network copy unit 117 returns the processing to S601.

If it is determined in S612 that the content of the response is a notification of “printing of one sheet has been completed” (see S330), the network copying unit 117 proceeds to S62.
In step 1, after transmitting a print end message for one sheet to the image reading unit 115, the process returns to S601.

If it is determined in S612 that the content of the response is a notification of “error occurrence” (see S338), the network copy unit 117 sends a “error occurrence message” to the management unit 114 in S620. , The process returns to S601.

If it is determined in S612 that the content of the response is a notice of "warning" (see S334), the network copying unit 117 proceeds to S61.
Proceed to 3. In S613, the network copy unit 117 transmits a warning detection message to the management unit 114. In the next step S614, the management unit 114 starts a polling timer that times out at a predetermined cycle. And Management Department 1
14 waits for the timeout of the polling timer in the next S615, and transmits a "printer status monitoring packet" to the destination system 1 'in the next S616. In the next step S617, the management unit 114 waits for a response from the management unit 114 to the “printer status monitoring packet”. Then, a response from the destination system 1 '(S334, S33
6, see S338), the network copy unit 117 checks the contents of the response in the next S618. If the content of the response is a notification of "warning has occurred" (see S334), the network copying unit 117 returns the processing to S614 and restarts the polling timer.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S618 that the content of the response is a notification of “error occurrence” (see S338), the network copying unit 117 proceeds to S62.
At 0, the process returns to S601 after notifying the management unit 114 of the “error occurrence message”.

On the other hand, if the content of the response is “return to normal”
Is determined in S618, the network copy unit 114 notifies the management unit 114 of a “normal recovery message” in S619, and then returns to S601.

On the other hand, if the “scan end message (see S727)” is received from the image reading unit 115, the process proceeds to S60.
If it is determined in step 2, the network copy unit 117
Advances the process to S622. In S622, the network copy unit 117 transmits a "copy end packet" to the specified output destination system (destination system) 1 '.

In the next step S623, the network copy unit 117 waits for a response from the destination system 1 'to the transmission of the "copy end packet" in step S622. If there is a dummy response (see S340) from the destination system 1 ', the network copy unit 117 rewrites "printer operation status" in the log file 121 to "normal end" in the next S624. To the storage unit 113. After transmitting a “processing end message” to the management unit 114 in the next S625, the network copying unit 117 returns the processing to S601.

On the other hand, when the “processing stop message (see S541)” is received from the management unit 114, it is determined in S6.
02, the network copy unit 11
In S625, after transmitting the “processing end message” to the management unit 114 in S625, the processing proceeds to S6.
Return to 01.

<Image Reading Unit> Next, the processing by the image reading unit 115 will be described with reference to FIGS. Immediately after startup, the image reading unit 115 executes S701
Waiting for messages from the management unit 114, the network copy unit 117, and the printing unit 116.

Upon receiving any message, in step S702, the image reading unit 115 checks the type of the received message. If the received message is a “copy start confirmation request message (see S508 and S521)” from the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115 checks the state of the scanner 20 in S703. If the scanner 20 is normal and stopped, a response of “OK” is sent to the management unit 114 in S705. On the other hand, if the scanner 20 is already operating or is inoperable due to some error, in step S704, the management unit 114 is informed of "scanner in use or error". Respond with reason. In any case, the process returns to S701 to wait for a new message.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S702 that a “copy start request” (see S808) to which copy parameters have been added is received from the printing unit 116, the image reading unit 1
Reference numeral 15 denotes S706 to S714 for sequentially reading each page of the original set on the scanning unit of the scanner 20.
Execute the loop processing. In the first step S706 after entering the loop processing, the image reading unit 115 causes the scanner 20 to perform a prescan of the document, and obtains the document by reading the document based on the document size detected as a result of the prescan. The number of vertical and horizontal pixels of the image data (scan data) is calculated. Then, the number of pixels and the number of copies included in the copy parameter are transmitted to the printing unit 116 as “page information” regarding the page to be scanned later.

At the next step S707, the image reading unit 115
The scanner 20 is caused to read a predetermined number of lines of the document.

In the next step S708, the image reading unit 115
The scan data (image data) received from the scanner 20 as a result of the document reading in S707 is
Send to

At the next step S509, the image reading unit 115
From the printing unit 116, a “printing completion message for one sheet (S
814) is received, and if not, the process returns to S707 to execute the next original reading. On the other hand, when the "one print end message" is received (S8
14), the image reading unit 115 advances the processing to S710.

In step S710, the image reading unit 115 checks whether the number of copies specified in the copy parameters matches the value of “number of copies in progress” in the log file 121. If the two do not match, it means that the designated number of copies is a plurality of copies and the printing of all the copies has not been completed yet.
After incrementing the “number of copies during copy” in
In step 712, the control unit 115 waits for the printing unit 115 to transmit the “one-page print end message (see S818)” again. Then, upon receiving the “one-page print end message” from the printing unit 115, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S710.

On the other hand, when the number of copies specified in the copy parameter is one, or in S71
As a result of repeating the loop processing from 0 to S712, the number of copies specified in the copy parameter and the log file 12
If the “number of copies in progress” in 1 matches, the image reading unit 115 advances the processing from S710 to S713.
In step S713, the image reading unit 115
It is checked whether or not all pages of the original set in have been scanned. If the scanning of all the pages has not been completed yet, the image reading unit 115 sets “the number of copies being copied” in the log file 121 to “1” in S714.
And requests the storage unit 113 to increment the “number of pages being copied”. After the completion of S714, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S706.

When the scanning of all pages of the original set on the scanner 20 is completed as a result of repeating the loop processing of S706 to S714, the image reading unit 115 advances the processing from S713 to S715. In step S715, the image reading unit 115 transmits a “processing end message” to the management unit 114. In the next step S730, the image reading unit 115 requests the storage unit 113 to rewrite the “printer operation state” in the log file 121 to “normal end”. After the completion of step S730, the image reading unit 115 performs the process in step S730 to wait for a new message.
Return to 701.

On the other hand, from the network copy unit 117,
"Copy start request (S60
8) is received in S701, the image reading unit 115 sequentially reads each page of the document set on the scanning unit of the scanner 20 in S7.
The loop processing from 16 to S728 is executed. In the first step S716 after entering this loop processing, the image reading unit 115
Causes the scanner 20 to perform a prescan of the document, and calculates the number of vertical and horizontal pixels of image data (scan data) obtained by reading the document based on the size of the document detected as a result of the prescan. calculate. Then, the number of pixels and the number of copies included in the copy parameter are transmitted to the network unit 117 as “page information” regarding a page to be scanned later.

In the next step S717, the image reading unit 115
The scanner 20 is caused to read a predetermined number of lines of the document.

At the next step S718, the image reading unit 115
The scan data (image data) received from the scanner 20 as a result of the document reading in S717 is transmitted to the network copy unit 117.

At the next step S719, the image reading unit 115
“Processing suspension message (see S537)” or “processing stop message (S54)
1) ”or“ One-page print end message from network copy unit 117 (see S621) ”.
Check whether or not it has been received. If no message has been received, the image reading unit 11
In step S5, the process returns to step S717.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S719 that the “processing temporary stop message” or “processing stop message” has been received from the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115 determines in step S720 that “processing stop message” has been received. Message has been received or a “processing continuation message (S53
9) "is received. Then, when only the “processing suspension message” has been received, the management unit 114 repeats the check in S720. When the “processing continuation message” is received, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S717. If the “processing stop message” has been received, the image reading unit 115 causes the process to proceed to S728.

In contrast, the network copy unit 11
If it is determined in step S719 that the “one-page print end message” has been received from the image reading unit 115, the image reading unit 115
Advances the process to S721. In step S721, the image reading unit 115 checks whether the number of copies specified in the copy parameter matches the value of “number of copies in progress” in the log file 121. If the two do not match, it means that the designated number of copies is a plurality of copies and the printing of all the copies has not been completed yet. After incrementing the “number of copies in progress” in the above, the process proceeds to S723.

In this step S723, the image reading unit 115
It is checked again whether a “processing temporary stop message” or “processing stop message” from the management unit 114 or a “print end message for one sheet” from the network copying unit 117 has been received. If no message has been received, the image reading unit 115 repeats the process of S723.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S723 that a “processing temporary stop message (see S537)” or “processing stop message” has been received from the management unit 114, the image reading unit 115 determines in S724 It is checked whether a "processing stop message" or a "processing continuation message" has been received. And
If only the “processing suspension message” has been received, the management unit 114 repeats the check in S724. When the “processing continuation message” is received, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S723. If the “processing stop message” has been received, the image reading unit 115 causes the process to proceed to S728.

On the other hand, the network copy unit 11
If it is determined in step S723 that the “single-sheet print end message” has been received from the image reading unit 115, the image reading unit 115
Returns the process to S721.

As a result of repeating the sub-loop processing of S721 to S724, the number of copies specified in the copy parameter and the “number of copies during copy” in the log file 121
If they match, or if the number of copies specified in the copy parameters was originally one, the image reading unit 115 advances the processing from S721 to S725. In step S725, the image reading unit 115 checks whether all pages of the document set on the scanner 20 have been scanned. If the scanning of all the pages has not been completed yet, the image reading unit 115 resets the “number of copies during copying” in the log file 121 to “1” and sets the “number of pages during copying” in S726. The storage unit 113 is requested to increment. S7
After the completion of 26, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S716.

When the scanning of all pages of the original set on the scanner 20 is completed as a result of repeating the loop processing of S716 to S726, the image reading unit 115 advances the processing from S725 to S727. In step S727, a “scan end message” is transmitted to the network copy unit 117. After the completion of S727, the image reading unit 115 advances the processing to S728.

At S728, image reading section 115 transmits a “processing end message” to management section 114. After the completion of S728, the image reading unit 115 returns the processing to S701 to wait for a new message.

<Printing Unit> Next, the processing by the printing unit 116 will be described with reference to FIGS. Immediately after activation, the printing unit 116 controls the control unit 112, the management unit 114, and the image reading unit 11 in S801.
Waiting for a message from.

Upon receiving any message, in step S802, the printing unit 116 checks the type of the received message. Then, a "system information acquisition request message (S306, S3
10)), the printing unit 116 advances the processing to S803. In this S803, the printing unit 11
Reference numeral 6 denotes the type and number of each cassette or tray mounted on the printer 21, the size and direction of paper set in each cassette or tray, and the capability of the printer (that is, whether the printer is a color printer or a monochrome printer or a laser). Printer or inkjet printer), and other information about the function of the printer 21. Then, the printing unit 116 responds to the request source control unit 112 with the printer information as system information. After the completion of step S803, the printing unit 116 proceeds to step S803.
Return to 801.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S802 that the “system information acquisition request message (see S504)” has been received from the management unit 114, the printing unit 116
In S804, the printer information of the printer 21 is obtained in the same manner as in S803, and this printer information is responded to the management unit 114. After the completion of S804,
The printing unit 116 returns the processing to S801.

On the other hand, a "copy start confirmation request message (S518, S531, S5
34) is received in S802, the printing unit 116 advances the process to S805. This S
In 805, the printing unit 116 checks the status of the printer 21. If the printer 21 is already operating or an error has occurred, the printing unit 116
Responds to the management unit 114 with a message “printer in use or error” in S806. On the other hand, if the printer 21 is normal and stopped, the printing unit 116 responds “OK” to the management unit 114 in S807. In any case, the printing unit 116 returns the process to S801 thereafter.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S802 that a “copy start request message (see S518, S531)” has been received from the management unit 114, the printing unit 11
6 to the image reading unit 115 in S808
After transmitting the “copy start request” with the copy parameter, the process returns to S801.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S802 that “page information (see S706)” has been received from the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116 determines in S809 that the number of copies in the received “page information” After storing the number of pages, the process returns to S801.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S802 that the scan data (S708) has been received from the image reading unit 115, the printing unit 116 advances the process to 810. In S810, the printing unit 116 converts the received scan data (RGB multi-tone signal) into printer output data (YM
CK dot signal) and stores this in a buffer.

In the next step S811, the printing unit 116 instructs the printer 21 to execute printing based on the printer output data for a predetermined line converted in the process of step S810. When the printing of one page is completed, the printer 21 notifies the user of a “one-page printing end notification” indicating that.

In the next step S 812, the printing unit 116 checks whether or not a “print notification for one page” has been received from the printer 21. If the “printing end notification for one page” has not been received yet, the printing unit 116 advances the process to S813. In step S813, the printing unit 11
Reference numeral 6 denotes a current operation state of the printer 21 (eg, whether the printer 21 is operating, what kind of error reason or warning cause is occurring, etc.) and supply information (what is the remaining amount of print target paper). %, Or what percentage is the remaining amount of toner
Or the percentage of the remaining amount of ink of each color) is detected, and the detected printer operation state and supply information are stored in the log file 121. Specifically, the printer 21
If the status is normal, the status is “operating” as “printer operating status”.
When a cause of the warning has occurred in the printer 21, the cause name is written in “error information” and “warning” is written as the “printer operation state”, and a serious error occurs in the printer 21. If there is, write the reason name of the error in the “error information” and write “abnormal termination” as the “printer operation state”. After the completion of S813, the printing unit 116 returns the processing to S801.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S812 that the “printing end notification for one page” has been received from the printer 21 in S812, the printing unit 116 instructs the image reading unit 115 to “1” in S814. Print end message ".

In the next step S815, the printing unit 116 checks whether a plurality of copies are specified in the copy parameters attached to the “copy start request message (see S518 and S531)” received from the management unit 114. Check if not. If only one copy is specified, the printing unit 116 advances the processing to S819.

On the other hand, if a plurality of copies are specified in the copy parameters, the printing unit 116
In step S816, it is checked whether printing for the number of copies specified in the copy parameters has been completed. And
If the specified number of copies have not been printed yet, the printing unit 116 determines in S817 the printer output data for one page accumulated in the buffer by executing S823 several times in the past. To instruct the printer 21 to print one page. Next S81
In step 8, the printing unit 116 transmits a “one-page printing end message” to the image reading unit 115. S81
After the end of 8, the printing unit 116 returns the processing to S816.
As a result of repeating the loop processing of S816 to S818, if printing of the number of copies specified in the copy parameters has been completed, the printing unit 116 advances the processing to S819.

In S819, the printing unit 116 checks whether or not the latest received scan data is data of the last page of the document set on the reading table of the scanner 21. If the data is not the data of the last page, the process returns to S801 as it is so that the scan data of the next page can be received. On the other hand, if the data is the last page data, the printing unit 116 transmits a “processing end message” to the management unit 114 in S820, and then returns the processing to S801.

On the other hand, a copy start request message (S3
23) ”has been received in S802,
In S821, the printing unit 116 requests the request source control unit 11
2, a “copy start request” with copy parameters is transmitted. After the completion of S821, the printing unit 116
Returns the process to S801.

On the other hand, if scan data (see S327 and S328) is received from any of the control units 112, the process proceeds to S8.
02, the printing unit 116 determines
Proceed to 22. In S822, the printing unit 116 determines that the identity of the received scan data is dummy data (S328
Check). If it is dummy data, the process proceeds to S826. On the other hand, if it is determined that the identity of the received scan data is not dummy data, the printing unit 116 advances the process to S823.

In step S823, the printing unit 116 converts the received scan data (RGB multi-tone signals) into printer output data (YMCK dot signals) and stores the data in a buffer.

In the next step S824, the printing unit 116 instructs the printer 21 to execute printing based on the printer output data of a predetermined line converted in the process of step S823.

In the next step S825, the printing unit 116 checks whether or not a “printing end notification for one page” has been received from the printer 21. If the “printing end notification for one page” has not been received yet, the printing unit 116 advances the process to S826.

In step S826, the printing unit 116 determines the current operation state of the printer 21 (whether the printer 21 is operating, what the cause of the error or the cause of the warning is issued, etc.) and the supply information. (What percentage is the remaining amount of paper to be printed, what percentage is the remaining amount of toner,
The amount of remaining ink of each color is detected), and the detected printer operation state and supply information are stored in the log file 121 as in the case of S813. This S8
After the completion of S26, the printing unit 116 returns the process to S801.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S825 that the “printing end notification of one page” has been received from the printer 21 in S825, the printing unit 116 instructs the request source control unit 112 in S827. One print end message "
Send

In the next step S828, the printing unit 116 receives the “copy start request message (S
323)) in the copy parameters
Checks whether multiple copies are specified. If only one copy is specified, the printing unit 116 advances the process to S832.

On the other hand, when a plurality of copies are specified in the copy parameters, the printing unit 116
In step S829, it is checked whether printing for the number of copies specified in the copy parameters has been completed. And
If the printing of the specified number of copies has not been completed, the printing unit 116 determines in step S830 that the printer output in the buffer for one page that has been accumulated in the buffer by executing S810 several times in the past. Based on the data, a print process for one page is instructed to the printer 21. In the next step S831, the printing unit 116 sets the image reading unit 1
15, a “one-page print end message” is transmitted. After the end of S831, the printing unit 116 proceeds to S8
Return to 29. As a result of repeating the loop processing of S829 to S831, if printing of the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is completed, the printing unit 116 advances the processing to S832.

In S832, the printing unit 116 checks whether or not the latest received scan data is the data of the last page of the document set on the reading table of the scanner 21. If the data is not the data of the last page, the process returns to S801 as it is so that the scan data of the next page can be received. On the other hand, if the data is for the last page, the printing unit 116 transmits a “processing end message” to the management unit 114 in S833, and then returns the processing to S801.

(Operation of Each Unit at Actual Copy) Next, an operation example of each unit at the time of actual copying (an operation example at the time of performing a network copy after performing a local copy first) will be described. The operation using the client terminal 2 and the operation using the touch panel 18 will be described separately. In the following description, the first copy system 1 is installed near the client terminal 2 operated by the operator.
It is assumed that a second copy system is installed in a remote place. Therefore, the operator sets a document on the scanner of the first copy system 1, and the first copy system 1 becomes a "source system".
The second copy system becomes a “destination system”.

[0210] 1. When operating using a client terminal, the operator places a web browser 3 on the client terminal 2
01, the URL of the WebCopier of the source system 1 is input on the web browser 301, and transmitted to the network NW via the communication unit 302 (S00).
1). Then, the network interface unit 111 executed in the copy server 10 of the source system 1
Receives the URL, and passes the URL to any of the control units 112 managed as being empty in the control unit management table (S201 to S204).

[0211] Then, the control unit 112 sets the URL
Hypertext data "WebCopier.html" corresponding to
Is received from the storage unit 113 and transmitted to the web browser 301 of the client terminal 2.

This hypertext data “WebCopier.
The web browser 301 receiving the “html” requests the server 10 for a class file of a Java applet whose applet class file name is described in the hypertext data “WebCopier.html” (S
003). Upon receiving this request, the network interface unit 111 sends the request to any of the control units 112 in the waiting state.
(S201 to S204). Upon receiving the request for the class file, the control unit 112 sequentially reads the requested class files from the storage unit 113 (hard disk 13) according to the specified applet class file name, and transmits the read class files to the web browser 301 of the client terminal 2. (S304).

[0213] When all the class files necessary for the activation are prepared in the RAM 32 of the client terminal 2 in this manner, the web browser 301 starts to execute the Java applet 13
3 is started (S005). This Java applet 1
Reference numeral 33 displays the basic screen 50 of the Java applet shown in FIG. 31 in a designated area on the display screen of the web browser 301.

Since the Java applet 133 sets the source system 1 as the output destination system in the initial state immediately after the startup (S101), the Java applet 133 sends a “system information message” for obtaining the system information of the source system 1 to the source. Send to system 1 (S10
3). The control unit 1 that has received this “system information request message” via the network interface unit 111
12 transmits a “system information acquisition request message” to the printing unit 116 of the own system (S306). Upon receiving the “system information acquisition request message”, the printing unit 116 determines the type of the printer 21 of the own system 1, the type and number of trays and cassettes mounted on the printer 21, and the number of sheets set in each tray or cassette. The size, direction, type, and the like are checked, and the information is returned to the requesting control unit 112 as system information (S8).
03). The control unit 1 that has received the response of the system information
12 transmits the received system information to the Java applet 133 (S309). The Java applet 133 that has received the system information rewrites the display items of the output destination setting area 54 in the basic screen 50 according to the contents of the system information.

That is, the identification name of the own system 1 is displayed at the head of the output destination designation box 541, and the printer 21 as the output destination is displayed.
A paper selection button group 542 corresponding to each of the trays and cassettes mounted on the tray is displayed, and a combination of the size and direction of the paper set in each of these trays and cassettes is displayed in a paper size setting box 543. The paper type is displayed in the paper type setting box 544.

Thereafter, when the operator of the client terminal 2 presses the copy start button 531 in a state where various copy conditions such as the number of copies are set on the basic screen 50 of the Java applet, the Java applet 133 is set.
Transmits a "copy start request message" including copy parameters indicating these copy conditions to the server 10 (S110). The control unit 112 that has received the “copy start request message” via the network interface unit 111 transmits a “copy start request message” to the management unit 114 (S31).
3). The management unit 114 that has received the “copy start request message” transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 while holding the copy parameters (S508). Image reading unit 115 receiving this “copy start confirmation request message”
Responds to the management unit 114 that the scanner 20 is normal and stopped (S7).
05). Management unit 114 receiving this response
Sends a "copy start confirmation request message" to the printing unit 116 (S515).

When the printing unit 116 receives the “copy start confirmation request message”, if the printer 21 is in use or some error has occurred, the printing unit 116 sends a “printer use confirmation message” to the management unit 114. A response of "medium and error" and the reason (if the printer is in use, and if an error occurs, the type of error that occurred) are returned (S806). The management unit 114, having received this response, responds to the requesting control unit 112 that copying is not possible and the reason therefor (S520). Upon receiving this response, the control unit 112
Further, a response indicating that copying is not possible and the reason therefor is made to the Java applet 133 (S317). Then, the Java applet 133 receiving this response
Displays the fact that copying is not possible and the reason therefor in a dialog box (S121).

On the other hand, a “copy start confirmation request message”
The printing unit 116 that has received “O” sends “O” to the management unit 114 if the printer 21 is normal and stopped.
K ”and the supply information of the printer 21 are responded (S807).
The server 14 responds to the requesting control section 112 that copying is possible and supply information of the printer 21 (S517). Upon receiving this response, the control unit 112
Further, a response indicating that copying is possible and the supply information of the printer 21 are sent back to the Java applet 133 (S
316). Then, the Java applet 133 that has received this response opens the dialog box shown in FIG. 32 on the display 40 and displays that the copy operation has been started (S113).

At the same time, the management unit 114
Sends a "copy start request message" with copy parameters to the printing unit 116 (S518), and initializes the log file 121 (S518).
519). The printing unit 116 that has received the “copy start request message” from the management unit 114 sends a “copy start request” to the document reading unit 115 with the copy parameter attached (S808). Then, the document reading unit 115 instructs the scanner 20 to read each page of the document set on the scanning unit of the scanner 20.

More specifically, when reading each page, the original reading section 115 first performs a prescan of the page to detect the original size of the page, and based on the detected original size. The page information is notified to the printing unit 116 (S
706). Thereafter, the document reading unit 115 instructs the scanner 20 for a predetermined line (here, as an example,
(S707), and scan data obtained from the scanner 20 is transmitted to the printing unit 116.

The printing unit 116 converts the received scan data of a predetermined line into printer output data (S8).
10), and instructs the printer 21 to perform printing based on the data (S811). In this way, every time the image reading unit 115 causes the scanner 20 to read a predetermined number of lines and transmits the printer output data to the printing unit 116, the printing unit 116 instructs the printer 21 to print. I do. Until the number of such document reading and printing processes reaches ten, the printing unit 116 stores the operating state of the printer 21 and supply information at that time every time the printer 21 executes printing.
21 (S826). When the printing instruction for the tenth printing is completed and the printing unit 116 confirms that the printing of one page has been completed (S812), the printing unit 116 instructs the image reading unit 115 to issue a "printing end message for one sheet". Is transmitted (S814).

The image reading unit 115 that has received the “one-page print end message” temporarily suspends the reading of the original by the scanner 20, and determines the number of copies specified in the copy parameters and the “number of copies in To the value of "." At this time, if the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is originally one, the copy-related processing for the page is immediately terminated. If the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is a plurality, ,
It waits for the next "printing end message for one sheet" from the printing unit 116 (S710, S712).

On the other hand, if the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is plural, the printing unit 116 transmits the first “one-page print end message”, and then transmits the image reading unit 115 by that time. The printer 21 is instructed to print using one page of printer output data based on all scan data received from the printer 21 (S817). Then, when the printer 21 finishes printing, it transmits again a "one-sheet print end message" (S818). The printing unit 116 repeats the process of printing and transmitting the “one-sheet print end message” until the total number of copies matches the number of copies specified in the copy parameters (S816).

The image reading unit 115 increments the value of “number of copies in progress” in the log file 121 each time it receives the “print end message for one sheet” from the printing unit 115 in this way, and When the value of the “number” matches the number of copies specified in the copy parameter, the copy-related processing for the page ends.

As described above, every time the entire number of individual pages is copied, the image reading unit 115 increments the “number of pages being copied” in the log file 121 and sets the “number of copies being copied” in the log file 121. Reset. Then, as a result of repeating such copy-related processing for each page, document reading section 115 determines that scanning of all pages has been completed (S
713), a “processing end message” is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S715), and the “printer operation state” in the log file 121 is rewritten to “normal end”. Similarly, when the printing unit 116 determines that printing of the last page has been completed as a result of repeating printing of each page (S819), it transmits a “processing end message” to the management unit 114 (S820). ).

On the other hand, the Java applet 133, after displaying the fact that the copy is normally started (S113), sends the “output destination copy progress information acquisition request message” to the server 10 of the source system 1 at regular intervals. Is transmitted (S116). The control unit 112, which has received the “output destination copy progress information acquisition request message” via the network interface unit 111, uses the contents of the log file 121 as “copy progress information” in the Java applet 1
33 (S341). As described above, in the log file 121, the “number of copies in progress”, “number of pages being copied”, and “copy operation status (copying, normal end, abnormal end, standby ) "Is written.

Therefore, based on the received “copy progress information”, the Java applet 133 displays, in the status display area 55 of the basic screen 50, the number of pages and copies currently being copied, and the copy operation status, as shown in FIG. (Copying, normal end, abnormal end, waiting) is displayed (S11).
8). When the “printer operating state” in the log file 121 has been rewritten by the image reading unit 115 from “operating” to “normal end”, the Java applet 133 displays a dialog box shown in FIG. Is displayed to indicate that the copy has been "successfully completed".

Also, the operation panel unit 118 includes S402,
Since the loop processing of S414 is repeated, the “printer operation state” and “supply information” in the log file 121 are constantly monitored (S414). It is displayed on the LCD 19 (S415).

Subsequently, it is assumed that the operator opens the output destination designation box 541 in the output destination setting area 54 of the basic screen 50, and selects the second copy system 1 'as the destination system.

Then, the Java applet 133 transmits a “system information request message” specifying the destination system 1 ′ as an output destination to the server 10 of the source system 1 (S103). The control unit 112, which has received this “system information request message” via the network interface unit 111,
A "system information request packet" is transmitted to 0 '(S307). The control unit 11 of the destination system 1 'receiving this "system information request packet"
2 'transmits a "system information acquisition request message" to the printing unit 116' (S310). The printing unit 116 ′ receiving the “system information acquisition request message”
Examines the type of printer 21 ', the type and number of trays and cassettes mounted on the printer 21', the size and direction and type of paper set in each tray or cassette, the capabilities of the printer 21 ', and the like. Is returned to the requesting control unit 112 'as system information (S803). The control unit 112 ′ that has received the response of the system information is the request source control unit 11 of the source system 1.
The system information is responded to the device 2 (S312). The control unit 112 of the source system 1 having received the system information transmits the received system information to the Java applet 133 (S309).

Upon receiving this system information, the Java applet 133 sets the copy number setting area 51, copy capacity setting area 52, and output destination setting area 5 in the basic screen 50.
The display item No. 4 is rewritten according to the contents of the system information (S118).

That is, the identification name of the destination system 1 'is displayed at the top of the output destination designation box 541, and the paper selection buttons corresponding to the tray and the cassette mounted on the printer 21' of the destination system 1 'are displayed. The group 542 is displayed, the combination of the size and direction of the paper set in each tray and cassette is displayed in the paper size setting box 543, and the type of each paper is displayed in the paper type setting box 544.

After that, when the operator of the client terminal 2 presses the copy start button 515 with various copy conditions such as the number of copies and the output destination set on the basic screen 50 of the Java applet, the Java applet 133 A “copy start request message” including copy parameters indicating these copy conditions is sent to the server 10.
(S110). The control unit 112 of the source system 1 having received the “copy start request message” via the network interface unit 111 transmits a “copy start request message” to the management unit 114 (S313). The management unit 114 that has received the “copy start request message” transmits the “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 while holding the copy parameters (S
508). The image reading unit 115 that has received the “copy start confirmation request message” sends “O” to the management unit 114 if the scanner 20 is normal and stopped.
K ”(S705). Upon receiving this response, the management unit 114 further sends a“ copy start confirmation request message ”to the network copy unit 117.
Is transmitted (S511).

The network copy unit 117 that has received the “copy start confirmation request message” transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the server 10 ′ of the designated destination system 1 ′ (S).
603). This "copy start confirmation request message"
The control unit 1 in the destination system 1 '
12 ', the management unit 114', and the printing unit 116 '(S318, S534). The printing unit 116 'receiving this "copy start confirmation request message" sends the printer 21'
If the printer 21 is in use or any error has occurred, the message "printer in use and error" and the reason therefor are described. 'Supply information is responded to (S806, S807). This response is transferred to the management unit 114 'and the control unit 112' (S536, S322). The control unit 112 ′ sets “OK” and “OK” to the effect that “copying is not possible when the printer is in use and error” and the reason is returned.
In response to the response to the request and the supply information of the printer 21 ′, the fact that copying is possible and the supply information of the printer 21 ′ are transferred to the network copy unit 1 of the source system 1.
17 (S322, S321).

In the source system 1, these responses are sent to the network copy unit 117, the management unit 1
14, is transferred to the request source control unit 112 (S605, S
513, S520), the request source control unit 112
transmitted to the va applet 133 (S316,
S317). As in the case of the local copy described above, when the Java applet 133 receives a message indicating that copying is not possible and the reason therefor, it displays a message indicating that copying is not possible and the reason thereof in a dialog box (S1).
21) If a message “OK” is received, a dialog box shown in FIG.
The fact that the copy operation has been started is displayed (S113).

In parallel with this, the management unit 114
When the network copy unit 117 responds that copy is possible, the network copy unit 117
Then, a "copy start request message" with copy parameters is transmitted (S514), and the log file 121 is initialized (S519). The network copy unit 117 that has received the “copy start request message” from the management unit 114 transmits a “copy start request message” to the server 10 ′ of the specified destination system 1 ′ (S606). This “copy start confirmation request message” is transferred to the control unit 112 ′ and the printing unit 116 ′ in the destination system 1 ′ (S323). The printing unit 116 'receiving the "copy start request message" adds a copy parameter to the control unit 112' and responds with a "copy start request" (S821). Control unit 112 '
Responds this "copy start request" to the network copy unit 117 'of the source system 1 (S325). In the source system 1, this "copy start request"
Are from the network copy unit 117 to the image reading unit 115
Is transferred to (S608).

The document reading unit 115 that has received the “copy start request” instructs the scanner to read each page of the document set on the scanning unit of the scanner 20.
More specifically, when reading each page, the document reading unit 115 first performs a prescan of the page to detect a document size of the page, and outputs page information based on the detected document size. It notifies the network copy unit 117 (S716). Thereafter, the document reading unit 115 causes the scanner 20 to read a predetermined line (here, for example, a line corresponding to 1/10 of A4 length) (S717). Scanner 2
The scan data obtained from 0 is transmitted to the network copy unit 117 (S718). The network copy unit 117 JPEG-compresses the received scan data and transmits it to the destination system 1 ′ (S6).
10). Control unit 11 of destination system 1 '
2 ′ decompresses the received scan data into RGB multi-tone image data (S326) and transmits it to the printing unit 116 ′ (S327).

The printing unit 116 'converts the received scan data of the predetermined line into printer output data (S
823), and instructs the printer 21 to perform printing based on the data (S824). In this manner, the image reading unit 115 of the source system 1 causes the scanner 20 to read a predetermined line, and
Each time 7 transmits scan data to the destination system 1 ', the printing unit 115' of the destination system 1 'instructs the printer 21' to perform printing. Until the number of such document reading and printing processes reaches ten, the printing unit 116 'of the destination system 1' executes the operation of the printer 21 'at that time every time the printer 21' executes printing. The status and supply information are stored in the log file 121 '(S826). When the tenth printing instruction is completed, the printing unit 116 'of the destination system 1'
Transmits a "one-page print end message" to the control unit 112 'after confirming that one page has been printed (S8).
27).

On the other hand, after transmitting the scan data to the print unit 116 ', the control unit 112' transmits the scan data to the print unit 116 ', and then the print unit 116' transmits a "print end message for one sheet". It is checked whether or not it has been performed (S329). As described above, the printing unit 11
No. 6 'does not make any response until the last printing (tenth printing) of the page is completed. In that case, the control unit 1
12 'checks the operation status of the printer 21' stored in the log file 121 ', and if there is no problem, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 indicates that "printing" and a log. File 12
The “supply information” in 1 ′ is notified (S332). Then, when the printing unit 116 'has transmitted the "one-page print end message", it transmits this "one-page print end message" to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 (S330). Source system 1
When receiving the notification of “printing” from the destination system 1 ′, the network copy unit 117 registers the contents of “supply information” attached to the notification in the log file 121 (S622). Also, "1
When the “printing end message for one sheet” is received, the “printing end message for one sheet” is sent to the image reading unit 11.
5 (S621).

The image reading unit 115 of the source system 1 that has received the “one-page print end message” temporarily suspends the reading of the original by the scanner 20, and determines the number of print copies specified in the copy parameters and Compare with the value of “Number of copies during copying”. At this time, if the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is originally one, the copy-related processing for the page is immediately terminated. If the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is plural, , Destination system 1 '
Wait for the next "one-page print end message" (S719, S723).

On the other hand, if the printing section 116 'of the destination system 1' transmits the first "printing completion message for one sheet", and if the number of copies specified in the copy parameters is plural, the printing section 116 ' The printer 2 uses one page of printer output data based on all scan data received from the control unit 112 'up to the point in time.
1 'is instructed to print (S830), and when the printer 21' finishes printing, a "one-page print end message" is again displayed.
Is transmitted to the control unit 112 ′ (S831). The printing unit 116 'repeats the process of printing and transmitting the "one-page print end message" until the total number of copies matches the number of copies specified in the copy parameters (S829).

The image reading unit 115 of the source system 1
In this way, every time the “one-page print end message” is received from the destination system 1 ′, the value of “number of copies in progress” in the log file 121 is incremented (S722), and the value of “number of copies in progress” is set. Is equal to the number of copies specified in the copy parameters, the copy-related processing for the page is terminated (S7).
21).

As described above, each time the copying of all the individual pages is performed, the image reading unit 1 of the source system 1
The step 15 increments the "number of pages being copied" in the log file 121 and resets the "number of copies being copied" (S726). When the original reading unit 115 determines that scanning of all pages has been completed as a result of repeating such copy-related processing of each page (S725), a "scan end message" is sent to the network copying unit 117.
Is transmitted (S727), and the management unit 11
A “processing end message” is transmitted to the server 4 (S72).
8). The network copy unit 117 that has received the “scan end message” transmits a “copy end packet” to the destination system 1 ′ (S
622). When the control unit 112 'of the destination system 1' which has received the "copy end packet" transmits a processing end message to the management unit 114 '(S339), and sends a dummy response to the source system 1' (S339). S340), source system 1
The network copy unit 117 of the
The “printer operation state” in the table is rewritten to “normal end” (S624), and a processing end message is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S625).

On the other hand, the printing section 116 'of the destination system 1' determines that printing of all the final pages has been completed as a result of repeating printing of each page (S83).
2) A “processing end message” is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S833).

Note that the printer 21 'of the destination system 1' runs out of toner, ink, paper,
When a cause of a warning such as a paper jam occurs, the printing unit 116 'stores the cause name and the operation state of the printer 21' in the log file 121 '(S813).
Then, immediately after transmitting the scan data to the printing unit 116 ', the control unit 112' transmits the log file 1 unless there is a response to "one print end message".
The “printer operation state” stored in 21 ′ is read (S331). Then, the control unit 112 'transmits a "warning detection message" to the management unit 114' of the destination system 1 '(S333), and notifies the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 of "warning occurrence". The effect and the cause are notified (S334). Upon receiving the "warning detection message", the management unit 114 of the destination system 1 'transmits a "processing suspension message" to the printer 21' (S537).

On the other hand, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 having received the notification of “warning has occurred”
A "warning detection message (including the name of the cause of the warning)" is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S6).
13). The management unit 114 that has received the “warning detection message” transmits a “processing temporary stop message” to the image reading unit 115 and the scanner 20 (S537), and changes the “printer operation state” of the log file 121 to “warning”. And write the name of the cause of the warning in the “error information” (S53
8). In the image reading unit 115 that has received the “processing suspension message”, the process proceeds from S719 to S720. Alternatively, the process proceeds from S723 to S724. As a result, the image reading unit 115 interrupts all processes other than the message check.

At the same time, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 executes the polling timer (S61
At S616, a printer status monitoring packet as a substitute for scan data is transmitted to the destination system 1 'at regular intervals (S616). The control unit 112 'of the destination system 1' which has received the printer status monitoring packet transmits the dummy data to the printing unit 116 '(S328), and similarly to the case of transmitting the scan data, the log file 121'. Is checked (S331). Printing unit 116 'that has received the dummy data
Does not perform the printing process, but performs only the process of storing the current printer output state in the log file 121 '(S826).

When the cause of the warning in the printer 21 'is eliminated by the recovery work by the operator or the like, the printing unit 116' of the destination system 1 'sets the "printer operation state" in the log file 121' as "printer operation state". "Printing in progress" is stored (S826).
When the “printer operating state” stored in the log file 121 ′ is changed to “during printing” in this way, the control unit 112 ′ recognizes that the printer 21 ′ has returned to the normal state, and the destination system 1 'A normal recovery message' is transmitted to the management unit 114 of '(S335), and a' Normal recovery 'is notified to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 (S335).
336). When receiving the “normal return message”, the management unit 114 of the destination system 1 ′ transmits a “processing continuation message” to the temporarily suspended printer 21 ′ (S539).

On the other hand, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 that has received the notification of “normal return” notifies the management unit 114 of a “normal return message” (S619). The management unit 114 that has received the “normal restoration message” transmits a “processing continuation message” to the image reading unit 115 and the scanner 20 (S539), and changes the “printer operation state” of the log file 121 to “operating”. And write "none" in the "error information" (S538). In the image reading unit 115 that has received the “processing continuation message”, the process proceeds to S720.
The process returns to S717. Or, if the processing is from S724 to S
Return to 723. As a result, the image reading unit 115 can execute normal processing.

On the other hand, when the printing unit 116 'of the destination system 1' receives the scan data or the dummy data, an error has occurred in the printer 21 'that is so serious that the dispatch of maintenance personnel is required. The printing unit 116 'stores the name of the reason for the error in the log file 121'. Then, the control unit 112 '
Immediately after sending the scan data or dummy data to the printing unit 116 ', the log file 121'
Reads the cause of the error stored in. Then, the control unit 112 'transmits an "error detection message" to the management unit 114' of the destination system 1 '(S337), and transmits a "printer error occurred" to the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1'. Is notified and the reason thereof (S338). The management unit 114 of the destination system 1 '
Upon receiving this "error detection message", it transmits a "processing stop message" to the printer 21 '(S
541).

On the other hand, the network copy unit 117 of the source system 1 which has received the notification of “printer error has occurred”
Notifies the management unit 114 of an “error occurrence message (including the name of the reason for the error)” (S62).
0). The management unit 114 having received the “error occurrence message” sends the image reading unit 115 and the scanner 20
Then, a "processing stop message" is transmitted (S541), the "printer operation status" of the log file 121 is set to "abnormal termination", and the error reason name is written in the "error information" (S542). In the image reading unit 115 that has received the “processing stop message”, the process proceeds to S7.
19 through S720 or S723 through S7
After 24, printing is immediately terminated.

On the other hand, the Java applet 133, after displaying the fact that the copy is normally started (S113), sends the “output destination copy progress information acquisition request message” to the server 10 of the source system 1 at regular intervals. Is transmitted (S116). The control unit 112, which has received the “output destination copy progress information acquisition request message” via the network interface unit 111, uses the contents of the log file 121 as “copy progress information” in the Java applet 1
33 (S341). As described above, the “number of copies in progress”, the “number of pages in copy”, the “supply information”, and the “copy operation status” at that time are written in the log file 121 as described above.

Therefore, based on the received “copy progress information”, the Java applet 133 displays, in the status display area 55 of the basic screen 50, the number of pages and copies currently being copied and the copy operation, as shown in FIG. The state is displayed (S118). If the “printer operation state” in the log file 121 has been rewritten by the image reading unit 115 from “in operation” to “warning” (S5)
38), Java applet 133 is displayed on display 4
37, a dialog box shown in FIG. 37 is opened to display that the printer 21 'of the destination system 1' is in a warning state and the cause of the warning.

If the “printer operating state” in the log file 121 has been rewritten by the image reading unit 115 from “operating” or “warning” to “abnormal termination” (S542), the Java applet 133 displays A dialog box shown in FIG. 35 is opened on the window 40, and a message indicating that copying has been abnormally terminated and a reason name of an error that has occurred in the printer 21 'of the destination system 1' are displayed. If the “printer operation status” in the log file 121 has been rewritten from “in operation” to “normal termination” by the network copy unit 117 (S62).
4) The Java applet 133 is displayed on the display 40
The dialog box shown in FIG. 34 is opened to display that the copying has been completed normally.

The operation panel units 118, 118 'of the source system 1 and the destination system 1'
Monitors the “printer operation status” and “supply information” in the log files 121 and 121 ′ at all times (S 414). When there is a change, the content is displayed on the LCD 19, 19 '(S
415).

[0256] 2. When Operating Using Touch Panel Since the source system 1 ′ is specified as the output destination system in the initial state, “local printer” is displayed as the output destination on the basic operation screen of FIG. 28 displayed on the LCD 19. (S401). Then, when the operator presses, for example, a “paper size” tab on the basic screen, as shown in FIG. 29, the type and number of each cassette and tray mounted on the printer 21 of the own system 1
In addition, the sizes and directions of the sheets set in each cassette are displayed in a list. When the operator presses any one of these, the pressed one is determined as information of the printing target paper (S404). When the operator presses a numeric key on the keyboard 23, the number of copies is determined according to the input number.

When the operator presses the start key on the keyboard 23 after the output paper and the number of copies have been determined in this way, the operation panel section 118 causes the “copy start request” including copy parameters indicating these copy conditions to be displayed. A message ”is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S408). The management unit 114 that has received the “copy start request message” transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 while holding the copy parameters (S521). If the image reading unit 115 receives the “copy start confirmation request message”, if the scanner 20 is normal and stopped,
A response of "OK" is sent to the management unit 114 (S705). The management unit 114 that has received this response further transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the printing unit 116 (S528).

The printing unit 116 that has received the “copy start confirmation request message” sends the management unit 11 the same as in the case of using the Java applet 133 described above.
In response to step S806, a message indicating "printer in use and error" and the reason thereof, or a message indicating "OK" and supply information of printer 21 are returned (S806, S807). When the management unit 114 receives the message “printer in use and error”, it indicates that copying is not possible and the reason therefor, and when the message “OK” is received, it indicates that copying is possible. The supply information of the printer 21 is returned to the operation panel unit 118 (S533, S530).
The operation panel unit 118 having received these responses,
The content of the response is displayed on D19 (S411, S41
3).

When the management unit 114 receives the message “OK” from the printing unit 116, the management unit 114
Then, a “copy start request message” with copy parameters is transmitted to No. 6 (S531), and the log file 121 is initialized (S532). The processing of each unit thereafter is performed by the Java applet 13 described above.
3, the description is omitted. The contents of the log file 121, which is successively updated as the copy operation proceeds, are constantly stored in the operation panel unit 1.
18 (S414), and when there is a change, the content is displayed on the LCD 19 (S41).
5).

Following the local copy executed as described above, the operator selects “output destination” in the basic operation screen.
Assume that the tab is pressed. Then, as shown in FIG.
A list of system names of other copy systems 1 'connected to the source system 1 via the network NW is displayed. When the operator presses any item (output destination change key) from these items, the copy system corresponding to the pressed item is determined as the destination system (S404). Operation panel section 118
Transmits a "system information request message" designating the destination system 1 'as an output destination to the management unit 114 (S405). The management unit 114 that has received the “system information request message” transmits a “system information request packet” to the server 10 ′ of the designated destination system 1 ′ (S505). The destination system 1 'that has received the "system information request packet" performs exactly the same processing as in the case where the above-described Java applet 133 is used, and returns system information to the management unit of the source system 1 (S312). The management unit 114 of the source system 1 that has received the system information sends a display rewriting request message with the received system information to the operation panel unit 118.
It is transmitted (S507).

After receiving the system information attached to the display rewrite request message, operation panel section 118 performs a display according to the received system information. That is, when the “paper size” tab on the basic screen is pressed, the type and number of each cassette and tray attached to the printer 21 ′ of the destination system 1 ′, and the size and size of the paper set in each cassette The directions are listed. When the operator presses any one of these, the pressed one is determined as information of the printing target paper (S404). When the operator presses a numeric key on the keyboard 23, the number of copies is determined in accordance with the input number.

When the operator presses the start key on the keyboard 23 after the output paper and the number of copies have been determined in this manner, the operation panel unit 118 displays a “copy start request” The message is transmitted to the management unit 114 (S408). The management unit 114 that has received the “copy start request message” transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the image reading unit 115 while holding the copy parameters (S521). If the image reading unit 115 receives the “copy start confirmation request message”, if the scanner 20 is normal and stopped,
A response of “OK” is sent to the management unit 114 (S705). The management unit 114 that has received this response further transmits a “copy start confirmation request message” to the network copy unit 117 (S
524).

The related processing in the network copy unit 117 and the destination system 1 ′ having received the “copy start confirmation request message” is based on the Ja described above.
Since it is completely the same as the case where the va applet 133 is used, the description is omitted. Then, the response from the destination system 1 'is transmitted to the network copy unit 117.
The management unit 114 receives the information indicating that the copy is not possible and the reason thereof, or the fact that the copy operation has been started and the supply information of the printer 21 ′ in the same manner as in the case of the local copy described above. Responds to panel unit 118 (S526, S533). The operation panel unit 118 displays the content of the received response on the LCD 19 (S411, S413).

In parallel with this, the management unit 114
When the network copy unit 117 responds that copy is possible, the network copy unit 117
Then, a "copy start request message" with copy parameters is transmitted (S527), and the log file 121 is initialized (S532). Subsequent processing is exactly the same as the case where the above-described Java applet is used, and therefore the description thereof is omitted.

Then, in the source system 1 and the destination system 1 ', the log files 121 and 121' which are sequentially updated as the copy operation progresses.
The contents of the “printer operation state” and the “supply information” are constantly monitored by the operation panel units 118 and 118 ′ (S414).
It is displayed on the CD 19, 19 '(S41).

[0266]

According to the present invention configured as described above, the state of the destination copy system can be notified to the source copy system at the time of starting or during the execution of the network copy. The source copy system can present the notified status of the destination copy system to the operator. Therefore. An operator who sets a document in the transmission source copy system can perform an action according to the state of the transmission destination system.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of a network copy control system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the client terminal shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a program configuration diagram showing tasks executed on a server and a client terminal of each copy system shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a web browser.

FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing processing executed by a Java applet.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a network interface unit.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing processing executed by each control unit.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the operation panel unit.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the management unit.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the management unit.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a management unit.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a network copy unit.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing processing executed by the network copy unit.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the image reading unit.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the image reading unit.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by the image reading unit.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a printing unit.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a printing unit.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart illustrating processing executed by a printing unit.

FIG. 27 is a conceptual diagram of a control unit management table.

FIG. 28 is a view showing a basic operation screen displayed on the LCD.

FIG. 29 is a view showing a list of sheets displayed when a sheet size tab is pressed.

FIG. 30 is a view showing a list of other systems displayed when an output destination tab is pressed.

FIG. 31 is a view showing a basic screen displayed by a Java applet.

FIG. 32 is a view showing a dialog box for displaying that copying has started.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a status area during a copy operation.

FIG. 34 is a view showing a dialog box indicating that copying has been completed normally.

FIG. 35 is a view showing a dialog box indicating that copying has ended abnormally.

FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating a status area indicating that the printer is in use.

FIG. 37 is a view showing a dialog box indicating that the printer is in a warning state.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 Copy System (Source System) 1 ′ Copy System (Destination System) 2 Client Terminal 10 Copy Server 11 RAM 13 Hard Disk 17 CPU 18 Touch Panel 19 LCD 20 Scanner 21 Printer 112 Control Unit 113 Storage Unit 114 Management Unit 115 Image Reading Unit 116 Printing unit 117 Network copy unit 118 Operation panel unit 121 Log file 131 Control program

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 5B021 AA19 BB01 BB02 BB10 EE04 NN00 NN16 PP04 QQ04 5B089 GA13 GA14 GB03 JA01 JA35 JB16 JB17 KA13 KB04 KC26 LB06 LB12 LB14 5C062 AA05 AA13 AA35 AB17 AC22 AB23 AB23 FF09

Claims (16)

[Claims] An image processing apparatus includes a plurality of copy systems connected to each other via a network, and transmits image data obtained by reading a document in a source copy system to a destination copy system. A network copy control system that performs printing on paper based on the image data, wherein the transmission source copy system reads an original and obtains image data, and an image reading unit that obtains image data. And a status information presenting means for presenting status information indicating a status of the destination copy system to an operator, wherein the destination copy system comprises: A receiving unit that receives the image data transmitted from the transmitting unit, A printing unit for printing on a sheet based on the image data signal unit receives a status detection unit for detecting the state of the host system, the state information indicating the detected state by the state detection unit,
A network copy control system comprising: a status information notification unit that notifies the transmission source copy system. 2. The printer according to claim 1, wherein the printing unit includes a printer that performs printing based on the image data, and the status information notification unit notifies the status of the printer as the status information. 2. The network copy control system according to 1. 3. The network copy control system according to claim 2, wherein the status information notification unit notifies operation information as to whether or not the printer is operating. 4. The network copy control system according to claim 2, wherein the status information notifying unit notifies the printer of information about a fault that has occurred in the printer as the status information. 5. The network copy control system according to claim 2, wherein the status information notification unit notifies the printer of information on the amount of consumables of the printer as the status information. . 6. The network copy control system according to claim 1, wherein said status information presenting means has a display for displaying said status information. 7. The network copy control system according to claim 1, wherein said destination copy system further comprises a status display unit for displaying status information of the own system. 8. The network copy control system according to claim 7, wherein said status display unit has a display for displaying said status information. 9. The transmission source copy system further includes a status information requesting unit for requesting the transmission destination copy system for status information indicating a status of the system, wherein the status information notifying unit is configured to transmit the status information. 2. The network copy control system according to claim 1, wherein the status information is returned to the transmission source copy system in response to a request from a status information request unit of the source copy system. 10. The printing unit includes a printer that performs printing based on the image data, and the status information notification unit records the status of the printer detected by the status detection unit as the status information. A storage unit, and a response unit that reads out the status information recorded in the storage unit in response to a request from a status information requesting unit of the transmission source copy system and responds to the transmission source copy system. The network copy control system according to claim 9, wherein 11. The network according to claim 10, wherein said destination copy system further comprises a status display unit for reading out and displaying status information of the own system stored in said storage unit. Copy control system. 12. A transmission source system and a transmission destination system connected to each other via a network, wherein image data obtained by reading a document in the transmission source system is transmitted to the transmission destination system. A network copy control system that performs printing on paper based on the image data, wherein the transmission source system reads an original and obtains image data; and an image data obtained by the image reading unit. And a status information presenting unit that presents status information indicating a status of the destination system to an operator, wherein the destination system includes: A receiving unit that receives the transmitted image data; and a receiving unit that receives the image data based on the image data received by the receiving unit. A printing unit for printing on a sheet have a state detection unit for detecting the state of the host system, the state information indicating the detected state by the state detection unit,
A network copy control system, comprising: a status information notification unit that notifies the transmission source system. 13. A copy system capable of communicating with another copy system via a network, comprising: a state detection unit for detecting a state of the own system; and state information indicating a state detected by the state detection unit. ,
A status information notifying unit for notifying the other copy system; status information presenting means for presenting the status information notified from the status information notifying unit of the other copy system to an operator; image reading for reading a document to obtain image data A transmitting unit that transmits image data obtained by the image reading unit to another copy system; a receiving unit that receives image data transmitted from a transmitting unit of another copy system; and a receiving unit that receives the image data. A printing unit for performing printing on paper based on the image data. 14. A copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner for reading an original and a printer for printing based on image data read by the scanner, and communicating with another copy system via a network. A copy control device capable of detecting a status of the own system, and status information indicating the status detected by the status detection unit.
A status information notifying unit for notifying the other copy system; status information presenting means for presenting the status information notified from the status information notifying unit of the other copy system to an operator; An image reading unit that obtains the image data by causing the image reading unit to transmit the image data obtained by the image reading unit to the other copy system; and an image that is transmitted from the transmission unit of the other copy system. A copy control device, comprising: a receiving unit that receives data. 15. In a plurality of copy systems connected to each other via a network, image data obtained by reading a document by a source copy system is transmitted to a destination copy system, and a destination is determined based on the image data. A network copy control method in which a copy system prints on paper, wherein the destination copy system detects the status of the own system, notifies the source copy system of status information indicating the detected status, and A network copy control method, wherein a source copy system presents status information notified from the destination copy system to an operator. 16. A copy system is configured by being connected to a scanner that reads an original and outputs image data and a printer that prints based on the image data, and can communicate with another copy system via a network. Computer to detect the status of its own system, and to notify other copy systems that transmit the image data to the own system of status information indicating the detected status. A computer-readable medium storing a program for presenting the state information to an operator when the state information is notified.