JP2000341467A - Facsimile machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To prevent increase in product cost, even when a function is increased by providing the function for downloading an application by accessing a network in the function declaration of an initial identification signal to be sent from equipment at incoming. SOLUTION: A network control unit(NCU) 2 included in facsimile equipment FSI performs the connection control of a telephone exchange network, switching to a data communication path or holding of a loop for using a telephone network for data communication or the like. If the level of a signal from a control circuit 20 is '0', a telephone line 2a is connected to the side of telephone set by the NCU 2, and if the signal level is '1', the telephone line 2a is connected to the side of facsimile equipment. The telephone line 2a is ordinarily connected to the side of telephone set 4. The control circuit 20 downloads the application by accessing the network from the facsimile equipment.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus, and more particularly, to a facsimile apparatus connectable to a network.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art A conventional facsimile apparatus receives N
By an initial identification signal such as SF / CSI / DIS signal,
Notify its own reception capability. In this case, the capability of the facsimile apparatus itself is notified to the partner machine.

[0003]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional example, in order to increase the capability of the facsimile apparatus, it is necessary to replace the ROM of the facsimile apparatus and cope with it.

[0004] For this reason, a large memory space is required, and large-size software must be built in the ROM in order to cope with a capability that is not frequently used, which causes a problem that the cost of the facsimile apparatus increases.

[0005] It is an object of the present invention to provide a facsimile machine which does not increase the product cost even if the function of the facsimile machine increases.

[0006]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a facsimile apparatus connectable to a network, comprising means for accessing a network and downloading an application, wherein the facsimile apparatus transmits an initial identification signal transmitted at the time of an incoming call. The function declaration includes a function to access the network and download the application. By using these functions, the function to access the network and download the application can also be notified to the other party, and the facsimile communication using this function can be performed. And the facsimile machine can be used effectively.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in a facsimile apparatus connectable to a network, the facsimile apparatus has means for accessing the network and downloading an application. This is to notify the presence or absence of the function to access the network and download the application.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the third aspect of the invention, the function of the facsimile apparatus itself and the function of accessing the network and realizing the application by downloading the application are separated by an initial identification signal. , To notify the other party.

Thus, when facsimile transmission is performed from the transmitter, it is possible to recognize whether the function of the partner facsimile receiver itself can be realized by accessing the network and downloading an application, and only when there is a great effect. It is easy to use because it is possible to access the network and specify the downloaded application.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in a facsimile apparatus capable of accessing a network and designating download of an application, means for registering whether or not a network having application software may be designated corresponding to a call destination. And means for accessing the transmitter network from the receiver and having the function of downloading the application, and for accessing the receiver network from the transmitter and specifying the network to download and access the application. .

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the fifth aspect of the present invention, the receiver is notified that there is a function of accessing the network of the transmitter and downloading the application, and the destination called by the transmitter is Only when the designation of the network where the application software is located is permitted, the transmitter accesses the network of the receiver, and specifies the network to download and access the application software.

Thus, the RO of the facsimile apparatus is
The application software stored in the M is simple and reduces the cost of the facsimile machine. On the other hand, with the permission from the transmitter side, the receiver accesses the network of the receiver and downloads the application software and establishes a connection with the network to be accessed. The facsimile communication to access the highly reliable network and download the application software became possible.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided the fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention.
In the described invention, it is notified that the receiver has a function of accessing the transmitter network and downloading the application software, but the destination called on the transmitter side is permitted to designate the network having the application software. If it is not, a message to that effect is displayed, and if the designation of the network with the application software is permitted for the destination, a message is displayed indicating that facsimile communication using the network is possible.

[0014] Thus, when the destination called by the transmitter accesses the network, the designation of the network with the application is not permitted, and the receiver has a function of accessing the network and downloading the application software. The operator on the transmitter side can indicate that facsimile communication using the network that permits application software to be specified for this destination is possible, and access the network and download the application software. Can be used effectively.

The invention according to claim 8 is means for accessing a network and downloading an application,
Means for transmitting information from the facsimile apparatus to the network and receiving the information processed in the network by a predetermined condition, according to predetermined conditions, accessing the network, downloading the application software, and executing the predetermined processing. The information is transmitted from the device to the network, and it is determined whether to receive the information processed in the network.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the invention of the eighth aspect, when there is no decoding application software of the encoding method specified by the transmitter, the network is accessed, the decoding application software is downloaded, and the decoding is performed. The control as to whether to execute the decoding process or to transmit the received information to the network and to receive the information subjected to the decoding process on the network is determined by the number of received data.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the eighth and ninth aspects of the present invention, when the number of received data is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the received information is transmitted to the network, and the information decoded by the network is received. On the other hand, if the number of received data exceeds a predetermined number, the network is accessed, the decryption application software is downloaded, and the decryption process is executed and recorded.

Thus, for example, when the received information cannot be decoded by its own facsimile machine, the user accesses the network and downloads the decryption application software, or sends it to the network to decode the received information and resend it. Judgment as to whether or not to receive is determined based on the number of receptions, and a shorter communication time for accessing the network can be selected, which is more efficient for the user.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the ninth and tenth aspects of the present invention, as a predetermined condition, the reception encoding capacity is not less than the predetermined number but the reception encoding capacity is not less than the predetermined capacity.

Thus, the control according to the eighth, ninth, and tenth aspects of the present invention can be determined based on the reception coding capacity, and the one that shortens the communication time for accessing the network can be selected, which is more efficient for the user. .

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, in a facsimile apparatus connectable to a local area network, a means for storing specific application software in a server on a LAN and a means for downloading application software stored in the server. And
When the facsimile machine needs the specific application software, it accesses the LAN server, downloads the application software, and executes the subsequent control.

Thus, in the case of a facsimile apparatus connected to a local area network, the facsimile apparatus itself has basic software, and is infrequently used and difficult to develop, that is, application software that may be changed. Can be stored in a server on the LAN, and the cost performance is good.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, in accordance with the twelfth aspect of the invention, there is provided a means for accessing a network and downloading application software.
If the server on N does not have the required application software, it accesses the network and downloads the required application software.

Thus, communication control when there is no application software in the server on the LAN becomes clear, and it is easy for the user to use. Here, it is important to access the network and download the application software so that the download of the application software stored in the server of the local area network is prioritized. Is less problematic and communication costs are unnecessary.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the twelfth and thirteenth aspects of the present invention, there are further provided a means for directly connecting to a personal computer and a means for storing application software in the directly connected personal computer. If the connected personal computer has application software, the application software stored in the directly connected personal computer is used in preference to the server on the LAN and the network.

Thus, when the facsimile machine wants to download the application software,
If you preferentially download from a directly connected PC,
The traffic is not affected as compared with downloading from the AN server.

[0027]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 shows a facsimile apparatus F according to a first embodiment of the present invention.
It is a block diagram which shows S1.

In the facsimile apparatus FS1, the NCU
The (network control device) 2 connects the terminal of the line to use the telephone network for data communication or the like, controls connection of the telephone switching network, switches to a data communication path,
This is to maintain the loop. The NCU 2 sets the signal level (signal line 20a) from the control circuit 20 to “0”.
If so, the telephone line 2a is connected to the telephone, and if the signal level is "1", the telephone line 2a is connected to the facsimile machine. In a normal state, the telephone line 2a is connected to the telephone 4 side.

The hybrid circuit 6 separates the transmission system signal and the reception system signal, sends the transmission signal from the addition circuit 12 to the telephone line 2a via the NCU 2, and transmits the signal from the other party via the NCU 2. The signal is received and sent to the modem 8 via the signal line 6a.

The modem 8 is based on ITU-T Recommendation V. 8,
V. 21, V.I. 27ter, V.I. 29, V.I. 17, V.I.
34, a modulator and a demodulator that performs modulation and demodulation based on C.34.
Each transmission mode is designated by the signal line 20c. The modulator / demodulator 8 receives the signal output on the signal line 20b, outputs modulated data to the signal line 8a,
a, and outputs the demodulated data to the signal line 8b.

The circuit 10 for transmitting the ANSam signal transmits the ANSam signal to the signal line 10a when the signal of the signal level "1" is output to the signal line 20d, and transmits the ANSam signal to the signal line 20d. When a signal is being output, no signal is output to the signal line 10a.

The adder circuit 12 receives the information on the signal line 8a and the information on the signal line 10a, and adds the result of the addition to the signal line 12a.
Output to

The reading circuit 14 outputs read data to a signal line 14a.

The recording circuit 16 sequentially records information output to the signal line 20e line by line.

The memory circuit 18 is used to store raw information of read data, a memory storing encoded information, or decoded information.

The operation unit 22 includes a one-touch dial, a speed dial, a numeric keypad, a * / # key, a start key, a set key, a stop key, a registration key for the circuit 24, and a circuit 2
6 and other function keys, and pressed key information is output to the signal line 22a.

Dial-up connection telephone number registration circuit 2
4 is a service provider 34 via a signal line 24a.
Memorize the telephone number.

The function storage circuit 26 can be accessed from the network, and is a function accessible from the network via the signal line 26a, for example, JBIG transmission.

The reading mode selection button 28 is a button to be pressed when selecting a reading mode at the time of transmission. When the button 28 is pressed, a pressing pulse is generated on the signal line 28a.

The read mode display circuit 30 is connected to the signal line 3
When a clear pulse is generated at 0a, "character mode" is displayed. Thereafter, every time a press pulse is generated on the signal line 28a, "photo mode" → "character mode" → "photo mode"
Are displayed alternately. When "character mode" is displayed, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 30a, and when "photograph mode" is displayed, signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 30a. Is output.

The facsimile apparatus FS1 'and the service provider 34 are connected to the PSTN 36 via signal lines 32a and 34a, respectively.

The control circuit 20 has means for accessing a network and downloading an application in a facsimile apparatus connectable to the network.
In the function declaration of the initial identification signal transmitted by the facsimile apparatus when receiving a call, a function (for example, J
BIG transmission). Here, it is assumed that the initial identification signal is an NSF / CSI / DIS signal.

FIGS. 2, 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the control circuit 20.

Here, encoding is considered as a function of the facsimile apparatus itself and a function of downloading the application by accessing the network. For example, the functions of the facsimile apparatus itself are as follows. , MH, MR, and MMR, it is assumed that a function that can be realized by accessing a network and downloading an application is JBIG.

Step S2 indicates that the information in the telephone number registration circuit 24 for dial-up connection is cleared via the signal line 24a.

Step S4 indicates that the information in the function storage circuit 26 accessible from the network via the signal line 26a is cleared.

In S6, a clear pulse is generated on the signal line 20f, and the reading mode display circuit 30 displays the "character mode".
Is displayed.

In S8, a signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 20d, and the ANSam signal is not transmitted.

In S12, the information of the signal line 22a is input, and it is determined whether or not registration of the telephone number registration circuit 24 for dial-up connection is selected.
The telephone number of the dial-up function is registered in the telephone number registration circuit 24 of the dial-up connection via the signal line 24a, and if not selected, the flow proceeds to S16.

In S16, it is determined whether or not registration to the circuit 26 has been selected via the signal line 22a.
When the registration to the is selected, the process proceeds to S18, and the signal line 26a
For example, JBIG is stored as a function that can access the circuit 26 from the network via the network. If registration to the circuit 26 is not selected, the process proceeds to S20.

In S20, it is determined whether or not the reception is selected. If the reception is selected, the process proceeds to S24. If the reception is not selected, the process proceeds to S22 to perform other processes.

In S24, a signal of signal level "1" is output to the signal line 20a, and the CML is turned on.

Step S26 represents a pre-procedure. here,
A function that can be received by the facsimile apparatus itself (for example, MH, MR, and MMR when focusing on coding) and a function that can be realized by accessing a network and downloading an application (for example, JBI when focusing on coding)
G) or the like is notified to the partner device by the DIS signal.

In S28, the transmitter sends JB
It is determined whether or not IG transmission is specified. If JBIG transmission is specified, the process proceeds to S34. If JBIG transmission is not specified (specifically, MH, MR, or MMR coded transmission is selected), S30 is performed. Then, the image signal is received / recorded, and the post-procedure (S32) is executed.

In step S34, the image signal is received in the memory, and in step S36.
Represents a post-procedure.

In S38, a signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 20a, and the CML is turned off.

Step S40 indicates that the wait is performed for 10 seconds.

At S42, a signal of signal level "1" is output to the signal line 20a, and the CML is turned on.

Step S44 represents a dial-up connection to the service provider 34.

In step S46, the network is accessed and J
This indicates that a BIG decryption program is downloaded.

In S48, a signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 20a, and the CML is turned off.

In step S50, the information received in the memory is converted to a JBIG
Decrypting and printing. Here, after the printing is completed, the received image signal and the JBIG decoding application software are deleted from the memory.

[Modification of First Embodiment] In a facsimile apparatus connectable to a network, the facsimile apparatus has means for downloading an application by accessing the network. Can be notified of the function of accessing the network and downloading the application.

Furthermore, the function of the facsimile apparatus itself and the function of accessing the network and downloading and realizing the application can be separated and notified to the partner machine by the initial identification signal.

In the modified example of the first embodiment, for example, in the case of JBIG transmission, when a function that can be realized by accessing a network and downloading an application is notified to the transmitter, the time can be greatly reduced by the JBIG transmission. JBIG transmission is used in the photograph mode, and MMR transmission is used in the character mode in which the time can be reduced a little by JBIG transmission.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are flowcharts showing a specific example of control in a modification of the first embodiment.

In FIG. 5, S60 is a step S24.
Is represented.

S62 represents a pre-procedure, which indicates that there is a function of accessing the network to download the application, and that the function of accessing the network to download the application can be realized by, for example, JB.
Notify that the transmission is IG transmission.

S64 represents step S28, and S66
Represents step S22.

In step S68, information on the signal line 22a is input, and it is determined whether transmission is selected. If transmission is selected, the process proceeds to step S72. If transmission is not selected, step S72 is performed.
Proceed to 70 (S8).

At S72, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 20a, and CML is turned on.

Step S74 represents a pre-procedure.

In S76, it is determined whether or not the facsimile apparatus itself has a JBIG transmission function in the other receiver.
If there is a BIG transmission function, the process proceeds to S78, and the character mode
In either case of the photograph mode, the read information is JBIG-encoded and transmitted, and if there is no JBIG transmission function, the process proceeds to step S84.

Step S80 represents a post-procedure. S82
Represents step S8.

In S84, access to the network is made,
It is determined whether there is a JBIG transmission function as a function which can be realized by downloading the application software,
If there is a JBIG transmission function, the process proceeds to S86, and if there is no JBIG transmission function, the process proceeds to S90.

In S86, the information on the signal line 30a is input, and it is determined whether or not the reading in the photograph mode is selected.
The process proceeds to S88, where the read information is JBIG-encoded and transmitted, and if reading in the character mode is not selected, S9
Go to 0.

Step S90 indicates that the read information is encoded by encoding the function of the facsimile apparatus of the other party's receiver. Here, the encoding is MM
R, MR, and MH are selected in this order.

[Second Embodiment] FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS2 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

In the facsimile apparatus FS2, N
In order to use the telephone network for data communication and the like, a CU (network control device) 102 connects to the terminal of the line, controls connection of the telephone exchange network, switches to a data communication path, performs a loop, Is held. Also, NCU
102 is a signal level from the control circuit 120 (signal line 1
If 20a) is "0", the telephone line 102a is connected to the telephone, and if the signal level is "1", the telephone line 1 is connected.
02a is connected to the facsimile machine side. In a normal state, the telephone line 102a is connected to the telephone 104.

The hybrid circuit 106 separates the transmission system signal and the reception system signal, and sends the transmission signal from the addition circuit 112 to the telephone line 102a via the NCU 102.
A signal from the other party is received via the NCU 102 and sent to the modem 108 via the signal line 106a.

The modem 108 is based on ITU-T Recommendation V.
8, V.I. 21, V.I. 27ter, V.I. 29, V.I. 17,
V. This is a modulator / demodulator that performs modulation and demodulation based on the signal line 34, and each transmission mode is designated by a signal line 120c. The modem 108 receives the signal output on the signal line 120b, outputs the modulated data on the signal line 108a, receives the received signal output on the signal line 106a, and outputs the demodulated data on the signal line 108b. I do.

The circuit 110 for sending the ANSam signal
When the signal of signal level "1" is output to the signal line 120d, the ANSam signal is sent out to the signal line 10a. When the signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 120d, the signal is sent to the signal line 110a. No signal is output.

The addition circuit 112 inputs the information of the signal line 108a, the information of the signal line 10a, and the information of the signal line 122a, and outputs the result of addition to the signal line 112a.

The reading circuit 114 outputs read data to a signal line 114a.

The recording circuit 116 sequentially records the information output to the signal line 120e line by line.

The memory circuit 118 is used for storing raw information of read data or encoded information, and for storing received information or decoded information.

When a calling command pulse is generated on the signal line 120f, the calling circuit 122 inputs the information output on the signal line 120g and outputs a DTMF selection signal on the signal line 122a.

The operation unit 124 includes a one-touch dial, a speed dial, a numeric keypad, a * / # key, a start key, a stop key, a set key, a registration key for the circuits 126 and 118, and other function keys. Is output to the signal line 124a.

The one-touch dial registration circuit 126 corresponds to a one-touch dial via a signal line 126a.
The STN's telephone number or IP address, and information as to whether or not the user can access the network and specify the network where the application software is located may be registered.

Service provider destination registration circuit 128
Registers the telephone number of the service provider A via the signal line 128a.

The display circuit 129 inputs the information output to the signal line 120h, and, for example, specifies that the destination of the call is permitted to specify the network where the application software is located. Facsimile communication that makes effective use of the network is possible if you allow the designation of a network that has a network. "

The service provider A 130 is connected to the signal line 1
30a, and is connected to the PSTN 142 via the signal line 13
0b is connected to the Internet 146.

The service provider B 132 is connected to the signal line 1
32a, and is connected to the PSTN 144 via the signal line 13
It is connected to the Internet 146 via 2b.

Further, a facsimile machine FS2 'is provided.

The network A 136 is connected to the signal line 136 a
, And is connected to the Internet 46.

The network B 138 is connected to the signal line 136a.
Is connected to the Internet 146 via the Internet.

The network C140 is connected to the signal line 140a.
Is connected to the Internet 146 via the Internet.

[0098] PSTNs 142 and 144 and the Internet 146 are provided.

The control circuit 120 determines whether or not a network with application software may be designated corresponding to a call destination in a facsimile apparatus capable of accessing a network and designating download of application software. Means for registering, whether or not the receiver has a function of accessing the network to the transmitter to download the application software, and means for accessing the network from the transmitter to the receiver to download the application software and specifying the network to be accessed The receiver notifies the transmitter that it has a function of accessing the network to download the application software, and the transmitter calls the destination of the call with the finger of the network where the application software is located. There only if allowed to specify a download of the application software to access the network to a receiver, and a network to be accessed from the transmitter. Also, the receiver notifies the transmitter that it has a function to access the network and download the application software, but the destination called on the transmitter side is not allowed to specify the network with the application software Is displayed, and if the designation of the network where the application software is located is permitted for the destination, it is displayed that facsimile communication using the network effectively is possible.

FIGS. 8, 9, 10, and 11 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the control circuit 120.

Step S102 indicates that the information of the circuit 126 is cleared via the signal line 126a.

Step S104 indicates that the information of the circuit 128 is cleared via the signal line 128a.

In S106, via the signal line 120h,
This indicates that nothing is displayed on the display circuit 129.

In S108, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 120a, and CML is turned off.

At S110, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 120d, and the ANSam signal is not transmitted.

At S112, the information of the signal line 124a is input, and it is determined whether or not the registration to the circuit 126 is selected. When the registration to the circuit 126 is selected, the process proceeds to S114, and the registration to the circuit 126 is performed. If is not selected, S11
Proceed to 6.

S114 corresponds to the one-touch dial to the circuit 126 via the signal line 126a, and determines whether the PSTN telephone number or the IP address, the network is accessed, and the network having the application software may be designated. Is registered.

In S116, the information of the signal line 124a is input, and it is determined whether or not the registration to the circuit 128 is selected. When the registration to the circuit 128 is selected, the process proceeds to S118, and the process proceeds to S118. Then, the telephone number of the service provider A is registered in the circuit 128, and if registration in the circuit 128 is not selected, the process proceeds to S120.

At S120, information on the signal line 124a is input, and it is determined whether or not a call is selected. If a call is selected, the process proceeds to S124. If a call is not selected, the process proceeds to S122. Proceed and perform other processing.

At S124, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 120a, and CML is turned on.

Step S126 indicates that a call is made to the designated destination using the calling circuit 122.

S128 represents a pre-procedure.

In S130, the receiver accesses the network and determines whether or not there is a function of downloading the application software. If there is a function of downloading the application software, the receiver proceeds to S138.
If there is no function of downloading the application software, the process proceeds to S132.

Step S132 represents the remaining pre-procedure.
Among the MH, MR, and MMR, a code possessed by the partner device is designated in priority to MMR, MR, and MH in that order, and encoding is specified.

Step S134 indicates that the image signal is transmitted by the encoding method specified in the previous procedure.

Step S136 represents a post-procedure.

In step S138, the information of the circuit 126 is input, and the destination of the call accesses the network, and it is determined whether or not the network with the application software can be specified. If it is OK, the process proceeds to S144, and if it is not necessary to specify the network where the application software is located, the process proceeds to S154.

In step S140, information on the signal line 124a is input, and it is determined whether or not the document is a character document. If the document is a character document, the process proceeds to S142. If the document is a photo document, the process proceeds to S148.

[0119] S142 represents the remaining pre-procedure.
Here, the address of the network A is notified, and access to this network A is designated to download the decryption A application software.

Step S144 indicates that the image signal encoded by the encoding A is transmitted.

Step S146 represents a post-procedure.

Step S148 represents the remaining pre-procedure.
Here, the address of the network B is notified, and access to the network B is specified to download the decryption B application software.

Step S150 indicates that the image signal encoded by the encoding B is transmitted.

Step S152 represents a post-procedure.

In S154, the signal is transmitted via the signal line 120h.
When the display circuit 129 indicates that "the destination of the call is not permitted to specify the network with the application software, but the destination is permitted to specify the network with the application software. Facsimile communication using the network effectively is possible. Is displayed. " This display is deleted by any key operation.

[Third Embodiment] FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS23 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

In the facsimile apparatus FS23, NC
U (network controller) 2 connects the telephone network to a terminal of the line to control connection of a telephone exchange network, switches to a data communication path, uses a loop to use the telephone network for data communication and the like. Is held. In addition, NCU20
202 is a signal level from the control circuit 220 (signal line 2
If 20a) is "0", the telephone line 202a is connected to the telephone, and if the signal level is "1", the telephone line 2 is connected.
02a is connected to the facsimile machine side. In a normal state, the telephone line 202a is connected to the telephone 204.

The hybrid circuit 206 separates the transmission system signal and the reception system signal, and transmits the transmission signal from the addition circuit 212 to the telephone line 202a via the NCU 202.
A signal from the other party is received via the NCU 202 and sent to the modem 208 via the signal line 206a.

The modulator / demodulator 208 conforms to ITU-T Recommendation V.
8, V.I. 21, V.I. 27ter, V.I. 29, V.I. 17,
V. This is a modulator / demodulator that performs modulation and demodulation based on the signal 34, and each transmission mode is designated by a signal line 220c. The modulator / demodulator 208 receives the signal output on the signal line 220b, outputs the modulated data on the signal line 208a, receives the received signal output on the signal line 206a, and outputs the demodulated data on the signal line 208b. I do.

Circuit 210 for sending ANS20am signal
Transmits an ANS20am signal to the signal line 210a when the signal of the signal level "1" is output to the signal line 220d, and outputs the signal line of the signal level "0" to the signal line 220d when the signal of the signal level "0" is output to the signal line 220d. No signal is output to 210a.

The addition circuit 212 inputs the information of the signal line 208a, the information of the signal line 210a, and the information of the signal line 224a, and outputs the addition result to the signal line 212a.

The reading circuit 214 outputs read data to the signal line 214a.

The recording circuit 216 sequentially records the information output to the signal line 220e line by line.

The memory circuit 218 is used to store raw information of read data or encoded information, and also stores received information or decoded information.

When a calling command pulse is generated on the signal line 220f, the calling circuit 224 inputs the telephone number information output on the signal line 220g, and the DTMF is input on the signal line 224a.
Is output.

The operation unit 222 has a one-touch dial, a speed dial, a numeric keypad, a * / # key, a set key, a start key, a stop key, a registration key for the network access method registration circuit 224, and other function keys. The key information is output to the signal line 222a.

Network access method registration circuit 224
Determines whether to access the network and download the application software or to transmit the received information to the network when the received information cannot be decrypted, and to have the decrypted information transmitted by the network transmitted. Whether to make a decision according to the number of sheets or a decision according to the received coding capacity is registered via the signal line 224a.

The destination (telephone number) registration circuit 226 of the service provider communicates with the PSTN 23 via the signal line 226a.
8 and connected to the Internet via a signal line 228b.

The service provider A 228 is connected to the signal line 2
28a to the PSTN 238 and the signal line 22
8b is connected to the Internet.

The facsimile apparatus FS3 'is connected to the PSTN 36 via a signal line 230a.

The network information provider 232 is connected to 2 via a signal line 232a.

The service provider B 234 is connected to the signal line 2
34a, and is connected to the PSTN 236 via the signal line 23.
4b, it is connected to the Internet 240.

The control circuit 220 is a facsimile apparatus having means for accessing the network and downloading application software, and means for transmitting information from the facsimile apparatus to the network and receiving information processed in the network. According to predetermined conditions, it is determined whether to access the network, download application software and execute predetermined processing, or transmit information from the facsimile apparatus to the network and receive information processed by the network. Specifically, when there is no decoding application software of the encoding method specified by the transmitter, access the network, download the decoding application software, and execute the decoding process, or
Control of whether to transmit the received information to the network and to receive the information decoded on the network is determined by the number of received data or the received coding capacity (registered in the network access method registration circuit 224).

Here, if the number of received data is equal to or less than a predetermined number or the received coding capacity is equal to or less than a predetermined capacity, the received information is transmitted to the network, the information coded by the network is received and recorded. If the number of received data exceeds the predetermined number or the reception capacity exceeds the predetermined capacity, the network is accessed, the decryption application software is downloaded, and the decryption processing is executed and recorded.

FIGS. 13, 14, 15, and 16 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the control circuit 220.

At S202, the number of received data (for example, 1
In accordance with (0), the determination of the network access method is registered in the network access method registration circuit 224 via the signal line 224a.

Step S204 indicates that the telephone number of the service provider registered in the circuit 226 is cleared via the signal line 226a.

In S26, a signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 220a, and the CML is turned off.

In S208, a signal of the signal level "0" is output to the signal line 220d, and the ANS20am signal is not transmitted.

In S210, the information of the signal line 222a is input, and it is determined whether registration in the network access method registration circuit 224 has been selected. If registration is selected, the flow advances to S212, in which the network access method is received. Whether to judge by the number (for example, 10) or the reception coding capacity (for example, 256 Kbytes)
It registers with the network access method registration circuit 224 via the signal line 224a, and if registration is not selected, S
Proceed to 214.

At S214, the information of the signal line 222a is input, and it is determined whether or not the registration to the circuit 226 has been selected. When the registration to the circuit 226 has been selected, the process proceeds to S216, and the control proceeds to the signal line 226a. Then, the telephone number of the service provider is registered in the circuit 226, and if registration in the circuit 226 has not been selected, the process proceeds to S218.

At S218, it is determined whether facsimile reception has been selected. If facsimile reception has been selected, control proceeds to S222. If facsimile reception has not been selected, control proceeds to S220, where other processing is performed.

At S222, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 220a, and CML is turned on.

Step S224 represents the pre-procedure. Here, it is notified that there is a reception function in MH, MR, MMR, and JBIG encoding.

In S226, the encoding method specified by the transmitter is determined. If the encoding method is MH, MR, or MMR encoding, the process proceeds to S228, where the image signal is received / decoded / recorded, and the post-procedure ( S230) is executed, and if it is JBIG encoding, the process proceeds to S232.

S232 represents memory reception of the image signal,
S234 represents a post-procedure.

In S236, a signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 220a, and the CML is turned off.

In S238, the information of the signal line 224a is input, and the method of determining network access is checked.
If it is the received number, the process proceeds to S2040, and if it is the received encoding capacity, the process proceeds to S242.

At S240, the number of received data is 1
It is determined whether or not the number is 0 or more. If the number of received images is 10 or more, the process proceeds to S244. If the number of received images is less than 10, the process proceeds to S254.

In S242, it is determined whether or not the received reception encoding capacity is equal to or more than 256 Kbytes. If the response is affirmative, the process proceeds to S244. If the response is negative, the process proceeds to S244.
Proceed to 254.

At S244, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 220a, and CML is turned on.

Step S246 indicates that the calling circuit 242 is used to call the service provider.

Step S248 indicates that JBIG application software is downloaded from the network.

At S250, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 220a, and CML is turned off.

Step S252 indicates that the image signal received from the memory is decoded and recorded by the JBIG decoding application software accessed from the network.

At S254, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 220a, and CML is turned on.

Step S256 indicates that the calling circuit 242 is used to call the service provider.

In step S258, the currently received JBIG encoded information is transmitted to the network.
This indicates that G decoding and MMR encoding are specified.

Step S260 indicates that the MMR-encoded information is received from the network, decoded, and recorded.

[Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS4 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

In the facsimile apparatus FS4, the NCU
The (network control device) 302 connects the telephone network to a terminal of the line to control the connection of the telephone exchange network, switches to a data communication path, uses a loop, or the like to use the telephone network for data communication and the like. It is to hold. In addition, NCU30
2 is a signal level from the control circuit 320 (signal line 320
If a) is "0", the telephone line 302a is connected to the telephone, and if the signal level is "1", the telephone line 302a is connected.
a is connected to the facsimile machine side. In addition,
In a normal state, the telephone line 302a is connected to the telephone 304.

The hybrid circuit 306 separates the transmission system signal and the reception system signal, and sends the transmission signal from the addition circuit 312 to the telephone line 302a via the NCU 302.
A signal from the other party is received via the NCU 302 and sent to the modem 308 via the signal line 3306a.

The modulator / demodulator 308 is based on ITU-T Recommendation V.
8, V.I. 21, V.I. 27ter, V.I. 29, V.I. 17,
V. This is a modulator / demodulator that performs modulation and demodulation based on the signal line 34, and each transmission mode is designated by a signal line 320c. The modulator / demodulator 308 receives the signal output on the signal line 320b and converts the modulated data to the signal line 3308a.
And outputs the received signal output to the signal line 3306a, and outputs the demodulated data to the signal line 3308b.

The circuit 310 for transmitting the ANSam signal
When the signal of signal level "1" is output to the signal line 320d, the ANSam signal is sent out to the signal line 310a. When the signal of signal level "0" is output to the signal line 320d, the signal is sent to the signal line 310a. No signal is output.

The addition circuit 312 inputs the information of the signal line 3308a, the information of the signal line 310a, and the information of the signal line 322a, and outputs the result of the addition to the signal line 312a.

The reading circuit 314 outputs read data to the signal line 314a.

The recording circuit 316 sequentially records information output to the signal line 320e line by line. Signal line 3
When the signal of the signal level “0” is output to the signal line 20i, the information of the signal line 320e is input and recorded. When the signal of the signal level “1” is output to the signal line 320i, Enter and record the information.

The memory circuit 318 is used for storing raw information of read data or encoded information, and for storing received information or decoded information.

When a calling command pulse is generated on the signal line 320f, the calling circuit 322 inputs the telephone number information output on the signal line 320g, and the DTM is input on the signal line 322a.
An F selection signal is output.

The operation unit 324 includes one-touch dial, speed dial, numeric keypad, * / # key, start key, set key, stop key, registration key for the circuit 328, and other function keys. Output to line 324a.

The application software storage location storage circuit 326 includes, for example, a signal line 326a, and the encoding / decoding application software for encoding A includes the facsimile apparatus itself, a directly connected PC, a server of a local area network, The encoding / decoding application software of the encoding B is in the direct PC, the server of the local area network and the memory of the network, and the encoding / decoding application software of the encoding C is in the local memory. The server (personal computer 7) of the area network and the memory of the network, and the encoding / decoding application software of the encoding D is accessed and downloaded from the network.

Service provider destination registration circuit 328
Registers the telephone number of the service provider A (348) via 3a.

The PDL function 330 receives the PDL output to the signal line 320h, interprets and renders, and outputs print information to the signal line 330a.

A personal computer (PC1) 332 is directly connected to a facsimile machine via a signal line 32a.

A network card 334 is provided, and the signal line 334a is by Centronics.
4b is an Ethernet.

PC (personal computer) 336, PC 338, P
C340, PC342, and PC344 are client personal computers connected to the local area network.

The PC 346 is a personal computer of a server connected to the local area network.

The service provider A 348 operates on the signal line 3
48a, and is connected to the PSTN 352 via a signal line 48a.
b to the Internet 354.

[0189] Network information provider 350 is connected to the Internet via signal line 350a.

The control circuit 320 is a means for storing specific application software in a server on a LAN in a facsimile apparatus connectable to a local area network, and the facsimile apparatus downloads application software stored in the server. When the facsimile machine needs the specific application software, the facsimile machine accesses a server on the LAN, downloads the application software, and executes the subsequent control.

Further, it has means for accessing the network and downloading the application software. If the server on the LAN does not have the required application software, it accesses the network and downloads the required application software.

Further, the personal computer directly connected to the personal computer has means for storing the application software, and the personal computer directly connected to the personal computer has the application software. Use the application software stored on the personal computer directly connected with higher priority.

FIGS. 18, 19, 20, and 21 are flowcharts showing the control operation of the control circuit 320.

Step S302 indicates that the information of the circuit 326 is cleared via the signal line 326a.

Step S304 indicates that the information of the circuit 328 is cleared via the signal line 328a.

In S306, a signal of signal level “0” is output to the signal line 320i, and the recording circuit 316 outputs
It is set to record the information of 20e.

At S308, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 320a, and CML is turned off.

At S310, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 320d, and the ANSam signal is not transmitted.

In S312, after registration in the circuit 326, 2
It is determined whether or not the week has elapsed, and when it has elapsed, S314 is reached.
To access the direct connection PC, the server of the local area network, the network, and
26, and if two weeks have not passed, S316
Proceed to.

Step S314 represents accessing the PC via the direct connection, the server of the local area network, and the network via the Internet, and registering the storage location of the application software stored in each of them to the circuit 326.

As an example, the coding / decoding application software of the coding A is “Yes, Yes, Yes, Yes” in the order of “the facsimile machine itself, a PC with direct connection, the server of the local area network, the network”. The coding / decoding application software of the encoding B is registered as “absence, existence, existence, existence”, and the encoding / decoding application software of the encoding C is represented as “absence, absence, existence,
It is assumed that “Yes” is registered, and the encoding / decoding application software of the coding D is registered as “No, No, No, Yes”.

At S316, the information of the signal line 324a is input, and it is determined whether or not the registration to the circuit 328 is selected. When the registration to the circuit 328 is selected, the process proceeds to S318, and the process proceeds to S318. Then, the destination (telephone number) of the service provider is registered in the circuit 328, and if registration in the circuit 328 is not selected, the process proceeds to S320.

At S320, it is determined whether facsimile reception has been selected. If facsimile reception has been selected, control proceeds to S324. If facsimile reception has not been selected, control proceeds to S322, where other processing is performed.

At S324, a signal of signal level "1" is output to signal line 320a, and CML is turned on.

Step S326 represents a pre-procedure. Here, it is notified that there is a reception function in encoding A, B, C, and D.

In S328, the coding method specified by the transmitter is determined. If the coding method is coding A, the flow advances to S330.
If the encoding is B, the process proceeds to S334. If the encoding is C, the process proceeds to S344. If the encoding is D, the process proceeds to S354.

Here, when the decoding application software for the encoding specified by the transmitter is not in the memory of the facsimile apparatus of the own apparatus, the direct connection PC, the server (PC) of the local area network, and the network The point is to download the application software for decoding from this location.

Step S330 indicates that the image signal is received / decoded by the decoding application software of the encoding A stored in the memory of the own device and recorded.

Step S332 represents a post-procedure.

In S334, the image signal is received in the memory, and in S33
Reference numeral 6 denotes a post-procedure.

At S338, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 320a, and CML is turned off.

Step S340 indicates that the decoding application software for encoding B is downloaded from the personal computer connected directly.

Step S342 indicates that the information received in the memory is decoded and recorded.

In step S344, the image signal is received in the memory, and in step S346.
Represents a post-procedure.

At S348, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 320a, and CML is turned off.

Step S350 indicates that the decoding application software for encoding C is downloaded from the server (PC7) of the local area network.

Step S352 indicates that the information received in the memory is decoded and recorded.

Step S354 represents memory reception of the image signal.
S356 represents a post-procedure.

At S358, a signal of signal level "0" is output to signal line 320a, and CML is turned off.

Step S360 represents dialing the service provider, accessing the network via the Internet, and downloading the application software for decoding the coded D.

Step S362 indicates that the information received in the memory is decoded and recorded.

[0222]

According to the first and second aspects of the present invention, it is possible to access a network and to notify a partner device of a function that can be realized by downloading an application.
Facsimile communication using this function is also possible, and the facsimile apparatus can be effectively used.

According to the third and fourth aspects of the present invention, when facsimile transmission is performed from the transmitter, the function of the other party's facsimile receiver itself can access the network and download and realize the application. It is possible to recognize the functionalization and to access the network and specify the downloaded application only when there is a great effect, which is easy to use.

According to the fifth and sixth aspects of the present invention, the application software stored in the ROM of the facsimile apparatus can be simplified, the cost of the facsimile apparatus can be reduced, and on the other hand, the reception can be performed by permission from the transmitter. It is possible to specify the download of application software and the network to be accessed by accessing the network of the machine, and the facsimile communication to access the network with high reliability and download the application software is possible. Play.

According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, the destination called on the transmitter side accesses the network, and the designation of the network having the application is not permitted.
If there is a function to access the receiver's network and download the application software, if the operator on the transmitter side is allowed to specify the network with the application software for this destination, facsimile communication that effectively uses the network is possible. There is an effect that it is possible to display that there is, and that facsimile communication for accessing the network and downloading the application software can be effectively used.

According to the eighth, ninth and tenth aspects of the present invention, for example, when the received information cannot be decoded by the own facsimile machine, the network is accessed and the decoding application software is downloaded. Or whether the data is sent to the network and the received information is decoded and sent again, according to the number of received data, and the shorter communication time for accessing the network can be selected, which is more efficient for the user. To play.

According to the eleventh aspect, according to the eighth aspect,
The control according to the ninth and tenth aspects of the present invention is determined in accordance with the received coding capacity, and a shorter communication time for accessing the network can be selected, which is effective for the user.

According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, in the case of a facsimile apparatus connected to a local area network, the facsimile apparatus itself has basic software, is infrequently used, is difficult to develop, that is, can be changed. The application software having the possibility can be stored in the server on the LAN, and the facsimile apparatus has an advantageous effect that the cost performance is good.

According to the thirteenth aspect, communication control when there is no application software in the server on the LAN is clarified, and there is an effect that it is easy for the user to use.

Here, access is made to the network. The point is that by downloading the application software, the priority is given to downloading the application software stored in the server of the local area network.The software that is closed in your environment has fewer problems, There is an advantage that communication costs are unnecessary.

According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, when the facsimile apparatus wants to download the application software, if the priority is downloaded from the personal computer directly connected, the influence on the traffic is less than when downloading from the server on the LAN. It has the effect of not giving.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS1 according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a control circuit 20;

FIG. 3 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a control circuit 20;

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of a control circuit 20;

FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of control in a modification of the first embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating a specific example of control in a modification of the first embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS2 according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 120.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 120.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 120.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating a control operation of the control circuit 120;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS23 according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 220.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 220.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 220.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 220.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram showing a facsimile apparatus FS4 according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 320.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 320.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 320.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing a control operation of the control circuit 320.

[Description of Signs] FS1, FS2, FS3, FS4: facsimile machine, 20, 120, 220, 320 ... control circuit, 24 ... telephone number registration circuit, 28 ... reading mode selection button, 30 ... reading mode display circuit. 128, 226: service provider destination registration circuit; 129, display circuit; 224, network access method registration circuit; 326, application software storage location storage circuit; 328, service provider destination registration circuit.

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (72) Inventor Teruyuki Nishii 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Shunichi Fujise 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon (72) Inventor Tomoyuki Takeda 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) 5C062 AA02 AA13 AA29 AA30 AA35 AB23 AB42 AC25 AC34 AE14 AF07 BC02 5K101 KK01 MM04 MM05 MM07 MM25 PP03 RR12 TT02 TT06 UU16 UU19 UU20 VV01

Claims (14)

[Claims] 1. A facsimile device connectable to a network, means for accessing the network and downloading an application; and accessing the network in the function declaration of an initial identification signal transmitted by the facsimile device when receiving an incoming call. A facsimile apparatus comprising: means for including a download function. 2. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the initial identification signal is an NSF / CSI / DIS signal. 3. A means for accessing a network and downloading an application in a facsimile apparatus connectable to a network; and accessing the network in a function declaration of an initial identification signal transmitted by the facsimile apparatus when an incoming call is received. Facsimile apparatus having a function of notifying the presence or absence of a function of downloading a facsimile. 4. The apparatus according to claim 3, further comprising means for separating a function of the facsimile apparatus itself from a function of accessing the network and downloading an application, and notifying the function of the other party by the initial identification signal. A facsimile machine characterized by the above. 5. A facsimile apparatus capable of accessing a network and designating download of an application, registers whether or not a network in which application software exists may be specified in accordance with a call destination. Registering means; designation means for accessing the transmitter network from the receiver and having the function of downloading the application, for accessing the receiver network from the transmitter, and for downloading the application and specifying the network to be accessed; A facsimile machine comprising: 6. The receiver according to claim 5, wherein the receiver is notified that there is a function of accessing the transmitter network and downloading the application, and the transmitter has called the destination of the network having the application software. A facsimile apparatus which accesses a network of a receiver from a transmitter and designates a download of application software and a network to be accessed only when the designation is permitted. 7. The receiver according to claim 5, wherein the receiver is notified that the transmitter has a function of accessing the network of the transmitter and downloading the application software. If the designation of the network with the application software is not permitted, a message to that effect is displayed, and if the designation of the network with the application software is permitted for the destination, the facsimile communication that effectively uses the network is possible. A facsimile device for displaying. 8. A facsimile apparatus having means for accessing a network and downloading an application, and means for transmitting information from the facsimile apparatus to the network and receiving information on which predetermined processing has been performed on the network. A facsimile machine which determines whether to access application, download application software and execute predetermined processing, or transmit information from a facsimile apparatus to a network and receive information processed in the network. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein when there is no decoding application software of the encoding method designated by the transmitter, the network is accessed.
Downloading the decryption application software and executing the decryption processing, or transmitting the received information to the network, and controlling whether to receive the decrypted information on the network is determined by the number of receptions. Facsimile machine. 10. The method according to claim 8, wherein when the number of received data is equal to or less than a predetermined number, the received information is transmitted to the network, and the information decrypted by the network is received and recorded. A facsimile apparatus characterized in that when the number exceeds a predetermined number, a network is accessed, decryption application software is downloaded, decryption processing is executed, and recording is performed. 11. The method according to claim 9, wherein the predetermined condition is that a condition that the reception encoding capacity is equal to or greater than the predetermined capacity is used instead of the condition that the number of received images is equal to or greater than the predetermined number. Facsimile machine. 12. A facsimile apparatus connectable to a local area network, comprising: means for storing specific application software in a server on a LAN; and means for downloading application software stored in the server. A facsimile apparatus which, when the specific application software becomes necessary, accesses a LAN server, downloads the application software, and executes the subsequent control. . 13. The system according to claim 12, further comprising means for accessing the network and downloading the application software, and when the server on the LAN does not have the required application software, access the network to execute the required application software. A facsimile machine characterized by downloading. 14. The device according to claim 12, comprising: means for directly connecting to a personal computer; and means for storing application software in the personal computer directly connected to the personal computer.
A facsimile apparatus characterized in that if there is application software in a directly connected personal computer, the application software stored in the directly connected personal computer is used in preference to the server and network on the LAN.