JP2001053913A - Image processor and its control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To surely secure information associated with an image processor itself by providing a 1st storage means which stores the information on the image processor itself, a 2nd storage means which stores the information in a removable storage medium, a collection means which collects the information to be stored in the 1st storage means and a control means which stores the information collected by the collection means in the removable storage medium via the 2nd storage means. SOLUTION: The control part of the image processor includes a RAM 207, an SDRAM 205, a ROM 204, an HDD 229 and an information recording/ reproducing device 123 which writes and reads the information into and out of a removable storage medium of large capacity. A CPU 202 collects the information which are temporarily or permanently stored in the RAM 207 and SDRAM 205 and records these pieces of information in the removable recording medium. The CPU 202 also stores all information stored in the HDD 229, the information on a user data area and its security information and the job information that is under processing and to be stored in a temporary data storing area in the removable recording medium.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus having one or more functions and a control method for the image processing apparatus.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a conventional image processing apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer function for outputting image information from a computer by a printer unit, and a document image placed on a platen of a reader unit are read and input to a computer. A multi-function copier (multifunction machine) with a scanner function and an attached device for realizing a facsimile function capable of transmitting and receiving images by being connected to other facsimile devices via a public line such as a telephone line and an Internet line. ) Has been put to practical use.

In the above-mentioned multifunction peripheral, a single multifunction peripheral can receive a plurality of jobs, and is provided with a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) having a considerably large capacity for storing data of the jobs. What has been proposed.

The storage device is used for temporarily storing job data received from the outside, or as an area from which job data received from the outside can be taken out as needed, or security is provided for a certain storage area. And can be used by each user or group.

Further, in a composite image processing apparatus having various functions, such as the above-described multifunction peripheral, a large number of jobs (print data, transmission data designated by the user, etc.) are requested based on a plurality of users. And storage means such as a hard disk drive (HDD) for storing the instruction information and the like. The storage area of the HDD is effectively used to improve the efficiency of the processing, change the priority of the job, and perform special processing. It can be used as an area where only a specific individual or a group can be read and written by providing a special storage area, and can store a confidential document (job data) by securing the area.

In addition, a storage unit in an apparatus represented by an HDD operates using various setting information (configuration information, facsimile address book, setting for each user) and a function in the composite image processing apparatus. Application software and the like are scattered and held.

[0007]

However, in the above-described conventional composite image processing apparatus, means for causing various composite image processing apparatuses to use various setting information and the like stored in a storage unit of a certain composite image processing apparatus. There was no provision for backup.

Further, it is possible to guarantee the data stored in the HDD inside the composite image processing apparatus against a catastrophic failure or failure of the composite image processing apparatus itself, and to replace the composite image processing apparatus with another composite image processing apparatus. At this time, means for transferring data stored in the HDD to the HDD of another multifunction image processing apparatus is not provided, and in the event of an apparatus failure or replacement of the multifunction image processing apparatus, a user creates and stores the data in the HDD. Restoring the stored data, FAX address book, settings for each user, and the like requires a great deal of labor and labor.

Further, when an abnormality or a failure occurs during the processing of a print job or the like in a multifunction copier, data relating to the unprocessed or unprocessed job is not guaranteed. The print job processing instructed to be executed by the image processing apparatus is:
It has to be sent again from the computer to another device having a print function, and the operator (user) has to take extra time and effort, which causes a problem that the work efficiency is reduced.

[0010] Furthermore, by using the area in the HDD,
Means for moving data including security information (including information for identifying a user who is permitted to perform operations such as outputting and editing the data, such as a password) when moving highly confidential data. Was not provided.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to collect information on the image processing apparatus stored in a first storage means and to store the collected information. By storing in a removable storage medium, various setting information, software, user data, job information, etc. stored in the image processing apparatus can be backed up in the removable storage medium, and a failure occurs. More particularly, the present invention relates to an image processing apparatus and a control method of the image processing apparatus which can securely maintain information stored in the image processing apparatus.

[0012]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus having one or a plurality of functions, wherein information relating to the image processing apparatus (configuration information of the image processing apparatus, application software, etc.) is provided. ,Address book,
Usage status of the image processing device, account information, device ID
First storage means (HDD 229, SDRAM 2 shown in FIG. 3) for storing numbers, software modules, user data, job information being processed by the image processing apparatus, unprocessed job information, and the like.
05, RAM 207, etc.) and a removable storage medium (FIG. 2).
A storage means (information recording / reproducing device 123 shown in FIG. 2) for storing information in a storage medium 124 shown in FIG. 2 and a collecting means (FIG. 2) for collecting information about the image processing device stored in the first storage means. Controller chip 20 shown in 3
1) and control means (controller chip 201 shown in FIG. 3) for storing the information about the image processing device collected by the collection means in the removable storage medium by the second storage means.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a selection means for selecting information on the image processing apparatus to be stored in the removable storage medium (the storage item selection screen 1 shown in FIG. 10).
000), and the control means stores information on the image processing apparatus selected by the selection means in the second storage means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus having one or more functions, wherein first storage means (HDD 229, SDRAM 205, RAM 207 shown in FIG. 3) for storing information on the image processing apparatus. etc)
And a removable storage medium (storage medium 124 shown in FIG. 2)
A second storage unit (information recording / reproducing device 123 shown in FIG. 2) for storing information in the storage unit, and information about the image processing device stored in the first storage unit when a failure occurs in the image processing device. A collecting means for collecting (the controller chip 201 shown in FIG. 3), and a control means for automatically storing the information on the image processing apparatus collected by the collecting means in the removable storage medium by the second storage means (FIG. 3). 3).

A fourth invention according to the present invention comprises a reading means (information recording / reproducing device 123 shown in FIG. 2) for reading information stored in the removable storage medium, and the control means comprises The information relating to the image processing apparatus is read from a possible storage medium by the reading means and stored in the first storage means.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, when the storage medium is mounted on the reading means, the control means automatically transmits the information on the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium. The data is read out by the reading means and stored in the first storage means.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the control means reads information (job information or the like) relating to a job executed by the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium and causes the job to be executed. It is.

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, the control means stores all information on the image processing apparatus stored in the first storage means in the removable storage medium in the second storage means. It is to let.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, the first storage means includes a rewritable storage unit (RAM 20 shown in FIG. 3).
7).

In a ninth aspect according to the present invention, the first storage means includes a rewritable nonvolatile storage section (H shown in FIG. 3).
DD229 and the SDRAM 205 backed up by the secondary battery 209).

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, a first storage means (HDD 229, SDRAM 205, RAM 207, etc. shown in FIG. 3) for storing information relating to the image processing apparatus itself.
A method of controlling an image processing apparatus having one or more functions, wherein a collection step of collecting information on the image processing apparatus stored in the first storage unit (steps in the flowchart shown in FIG. 6) 607)) and a storage step (step (609) of the flowchart shown in FIG. 6) for storing the information on the image processing apparatus collected in the collection step in a removable storage medium.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a reading step (step (807) in the flowchart shown in FIG. 8) in which information on the image processing apparatus is read from the removable storage medium and stored in the first storage means. ).

[0023]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of an image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. In the present embodiment,
A description will be given using an image input / output device which is a composite image processing device as an example of the image processing device.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 denotes an image input / output device;
Reference numeral 102 denotes a document feed unit (hereinafter, DF unit). Reference numeral 301 denotes a platen glass as a document placing table. Reference numeral 302 denotes a scanner, which includes a document illumination lamp 303, a scanning mirror 304, and the like. The scanner 302 reciprocates in a predetermined direction by a motor (not shown) and transmits reflected light of the document through a lens 308 via scanning mirrors 304 to 306. Then, an image is formed on a CCD sensor (image sensor unit) 309.

Reference numeral 320 denotes an exposure control unit comprising a laser, a polygon scan, and the like. The exposure control unit 320 converts the laser light 329 converted into an electric signal by the image sensor unit 309 and modulated based on the image signal subjected to image processing to the photosensitive member. Irradiate the drum 310. Around the photosensitive drum 310, a primary charger 3
12, developing device 321, transfer charger 318, peeling charger 3
19, a cleaning device 316, and a pre-exposure lamp 314.

In the image forming section 326, the photosensitive drum 310 is rotated by a motor (not shown) in the direction of the arrow shown in the figure, and after being charged to a desired potential by the primary charger 312, the exposure control section 320 Is applied to form an electrostatic latent image. The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 310 is developed by the developing unit 321 and is visualized as a toner image.

On the other hand, the pickup roller 33 is moved from the upper recording paper cassette 331 or the lower recording paper cassette 332.
The recording paper fed by the feed roller 3334
5, 336, and the registration rollers 337.
Is transferred to a transfer belt, and the visualized toner image is transferred to recording paper by transfer chargers 318 and 319.
After the transfer, the photosensitive drum 310 is moved to the cleaning device 31.
6 removes residual toner, and the pre-exposure lamp 314 eliminates residual charges. The recording paper after the transfer is separated from the transfer belt 330 and the pre-fixing chargers 339 and 340.
, The toner image is recharged, sent to a fixing device 341, fixed by pressure and heat, and discharged to the finisher unit 107 by a discharge roller 342.

The image input / output device 100 has, for example, 400
A deck 350 capable of storing zero recording paper is provided. The lifter 351 of the deck 350 includes a paper feed roller 352
The recording paper rises according to the amount of recording paper so that the recording paper always contacts.

A multi-hand 353 capable of storing 100 recording sheets is provided. Further, in FIG. 1, reference numeral 354 denotes a paper discharge flapper, which switches the path between the double-side recording side or the multiple recording side and the paper discharge side. Discharge roller 3
The recording paper sent out from the paper discharge flapper 35
4 switches to the double-side recording side or the multiple recording side. Reference numeral 358 denotes a lower transport path, and the discharge roller 34
The recording paper sent out from 2 is turned upside down and guided to the re-feed tray 356 via the reversing path 355. Also, 35
Reference numeral 7 denotes a multiplex flapper for switching the path between double-sided recording and multiplex recording. By inclining the flapper to the left, the recording paper is guided directly to the lower conveyance path 358 without passing through the reversing path 355.

Reference numeral 359 denotes a paper feed roller which feeds the recording paper to the photosensitive drum 310 through a path 360. A discharge roller 361 is disposed near the discharge flapper 354, and discharges the recording paper switched to the discharge side by the discharge flapper 354 to the outside of the apparatus. At the time of double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiple recording (multiple copying), the paper discharge flapper 354 is raised upward, and the copied paper is turned upside down via the reversing path 355 and the lower transport path 358 to re-feed the paper. 35
6 is stored.

At this time, at the time of double-sided recording, the multiplex flapper 357 is tilted rightward, and at the time of multiplex recording, the recording sheets stored in the re-feeding tray 356 are passed one by one from the bottom by the sheet feeding roller 359 to the path 360. Through the register roller 337 of the image input / output device. When the recording paper is judged and discharged from the image input / output device 100, the discharge flapper 354 is raised upward, the multiple flapper 357 is tilted rightward, and the copied recording paper is transferred to the reversing path 355, and the recording paper is transferred. After the trailing end of the second feed roller 36 passes through the first feed roller 362,
The recording paper is conveyed to the side 2a, and the recording paper is turned over by the discharge roller 361 and discharged to the finisher unit 107.

FIG. 1 shows an example of the image input / output device 100 capable of printing in a single color. However, it is possible to print in a plurality of colors, for example, three colors of black and red, yellow, cyan and magenta. An image input / output device capable of printing in four colors of yellow, cyan, magenta, and black may be used.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 101 denotes an image input device (hereinafter, referred to as a "reader unit"), which optically reads a document and converts it into image data. The reader unit 101 includes a scanner unit 103 having a function of actually reading a document optically, and a DF unit 1 having a function of automatically conveying a document so that the scanner unit 103 can read the document.
02.

Reference numeral 105 denotes an image output device (hereinafter, referred to as a "printer unit") having a plurality of types of recording paper cassettes (upper and lower recording paper cassettes 331 and 332), and recording image data according to a print command. It is output as a visible image on recording paper conveyed from a cassette. Printer unit 1
Reference numeral 05 denotes a printer unit 106 having a function of transferring and fixing image data on recording paper, and a finisher unit 107 for performing recording paper notes and staples on which images are fixed.

Reference numeral 104 denotes a control unit (hereinafter, referred to as a “control unit”), which is electrically connected to the reader unit 101 and the printer unit 105, and is connected to the image input / output device 100 and the image input / output device 100. It controls various devices, etc., and has various functions. This control unit 104
There are a facsimile communication unit, each computer I / F (interface) communication unit,
An image processing unit, a PDL formatter unit, and an operation unit I / F are provided.

An operation unit 108 of the image input / output device 100 includes a large liquid crystal touch panel 108a, and a user I / F unit that allows the user to easily give an execution instruction or the like to the image input / output device 100. It is.

The image input / output device 100 including the reader unit 101, the control unit 104, the printer unit 105, and the operation unit 108 can communicate with various external devices via the control unit 104.

Reference numerals 112 and 118 denote personal computers (PCs) normally used by users for creating documents. The PC 112 is a network (LAN (local area network), W
The PC 118 is connected to the control unit 104 via an AN (Wide Area Network) 120 or the like.
/ F 121 is connected to the control unit 104.

The PC 112 exchanges e-mail with another computer connected to the network 120, and transmits / receives e-mail to / from the
It is possible to browse an HTML file by a service of a server such as a server.

Reference numeral 114 denotes a computer having a function as a workstation (WS).
Reference numeral 17 denotes a facsimile machine (fax). The fax device 113 can communicate with the image input / output device 100 via the network 120, and the fax 117 can communicate with the image input / output device 100 via the public line (G3 or G4, which is the international communication standard for fax). . 111 is a printer, and 115 is a scanner.

Reference numeral 123 denotes an information recording / reproducing device. By connecting to the control unit 104, a large-capacity detachable storage medium 124 can be used as a storage device.
The information recording / reproducing device 123 includes the image input / output device 100
Is a device for recording and playing back various information and jobs handled by.

The network 120 is generally an Ether Net or the like. Further, the computer I / F 121 generally includes RS232C, Centronics I / F, IEEE1284, SCSI, and the like.

As described above, the image input / output device 100 described above
Is an example of an image processing apparatus including a control unit 104 capable of connecting an accessory device having a plurality of functions, and particularly includes an information recording / reproducing apparatus 123 for driving a large-capacity detachable storage medium 124. Network 12
It is possible to connect to the PCs 112 and 118 through a connection medium such as 0, print out data on the PCs 112 and 118, perform facsimile transmission, and record data in the image input / output device 100 in the storage medium 124. It has a function to do.

Hereinafter, the signal processing configuration and operation of the control unit 104 shown in FIG. 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of control unit 104 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 3, reference numeral 201 denotes a controller chip, which is a one-chip microcomputer mainly including a CPU 202, a RIP 203 and the like. The CPU 202 causes each function block provided in the control unit 104 to execute the following processing. The RIP 203 develops a PDL (Page Description Language) format such as PS or PCL input from the PCs 112 and 118 shown in FIG.
It has a function of converting to an image format (bitmap data) that can be output by the printer unit 105 connected to the printer unit 04. The cott roller chip 201 is a PC which will be described later.
A PCI controller (not shown) for controlling the I bus is built in.

Reference numerals 215 and 218 denote connectors each having a bidirectional asynchronous serial I / F and a video I / F.
The connector 215 is connected to the scanner unit 103 shown in FIG.
The connector 218 is connected to the printer unit 106 shown in FIG.

The CPU 202 transmits a control command to the scanner unit 103 via the connector 215, requests an image transfer, and sends an image transfer request to the scanner unit 103.
03 is received. Also, the CPU 202
Transmits a control command to the printer unit 106 via the connector 218, requests an image transfer, and transmits image information to the printer unit 106.

Reference numeral 216 denotes a scanner image processing circuit which performs image processing on an image transferred from the scanner unit 103.
Is controlled via The main functions of the scanner image processing circuit 216 include an RGB phase correction function, a background removal function,
Examples include a character determination function, an image processing function, a chromatic color determination / count function, a main scanning scaling function, a binarization function, a contour, an edge enhancement function, and the like.

The above-described RGB phase correction function corrects a reading phase (sub-scanning position) shift between the respective color components of the scanner unit 103, and the background removal function is
This is to remove the background color from the image input from the scanner unit 103, and the character determination function is to determine the edge area of the character / thin line portion.

The image processing function includes an italic function for converting a corresponding portion in the image determined as a character by the character determining function into an italic, a mirror image function for inverting the image to a mirror image, and a plurality of image functions. There is a repeat function capable of outputting the same image.

Further, the chromatic color judgment / counting function separates a color character from a black character, controls a character signal,
The main scanning scaling function is for determining whether the original image read by the scanner unit 103 is a monochrome image or a color image. The main scanning scaling function is for scaling the main scanning direction of the image input from the scanner unit 103. The binarization function includes a simple binarization function for binarizing a multi-level signal at a fixed slice level, a binarization function using a variable slice level in which the slice level varies from the value of a pixel around a pixel of interest,
And a binarizing function by an error diffusion method.

Reference numeral 217 denotes a printer image processing circuit which performs image processing on an image to be transferred to the printer unit 106, but a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

The image transferred from the scanner unit 103 is transmitted to the controller chip 2 according to an instruction from the CPU 202.
01 to the printer image processing circuit 217,
The image processed by the printer image processing circuit 217 can be transferred to the connector 218. The printer image processing circuit 217 can process the image into an optimal image that can be output by the printer unit 106, request the printer unit 106 to output the image, and transfer the image information to print out an orderly image. is there.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a ROM, which is a storage medium for storing a control program of the control unit 104 and the like, and mainly stores a program for controlling the entire image input / output device.

Reference numeral 205 denotes an SDRAM, which is a volatile storage device used as a main memory by the CPU 202. The volatile storage device 205 can also store various setting values required for the operation of the control unit 104, and save image data as it is. It is also possible. The contents stored in the SDRAM 205 can be backed up by the backup circuit 208 and the secondary battery 209, and the power of the control unit 104 is turned off.
Even when it becomes F, the stored contents are not lost. Further, in the SDRAM 205, configuration information of the devices connected to the control unit 104 (for example, information indicating whether or not the finisher unit 107 is provided, information indicating how many recording paper cassettes are provided, Information such as information indicating the type of the device constituting the image input / output device 100) is stored, and when the configuration is changed, the content can be updated.

A compression / expansion unit 206 has a function of compressing / expanding image data using the RAM 207.
Compression formats include JPEC, JBIC, MR, MM
R and the like. Further, it is directly connected to the controller chip 201 and can exchange image data with the SDRAM 205. Further, the compression / expansion unit 206 has a function of rotating the image in addition to the function of compressing and expanding the binary image. This rotation function rotates the binarized image clockwise by 90 degrees, 180 degrees, and 270 degrees. It is to let.

Reference numeral 212 denotes a MACROM, which is a ROM for storing a network physical address. The controller ROM 201 and the SDRAM 20 are connected via a connector 210.
5 is connected.

Reference numeral 211 denotes a 10/100 BASE-T connector (network connector) for connecting the control unit 104 to a private network (network 120), which is for transmitting and receiving data to and from the private network. In addition, 10/10 / BASE-
The T connector 211 is connected to the controller chip 201 via the connector 210.

An operation unit I / F 213 is used to connect the operation unit 108 shown in FIG. The operation unit 108 has a large liquid crystal touch panel 108a including a liquid crystal display unit and a touch panel input device attached to the liquid crystal display unit, and a plurality of hard keys (not shown). The signal input by the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a or the hard key is transmitted to the C through the operation unit I / F 213 described above.
The information is transmitted to the PU 202, and the liquid crystal display unit operates the operation unit I / F 21.
3 has a function of displaying the image data sent from
In addition, a function display or the like in the operation of the image input / output device 100 is also possible.

Reference numeral 214 denotes an IEEE1284 connector.
This is a connector conforming to EEE1284, and can be connected to an external PC.
An I / F that can be connected to the I / F 118. The external PC 118 issues a scan / print request to the control unit 104 via the IEEE1284 connector,
For example, status information of 0 can be obtained.

An LCD controller 219 is used when a color LCD (not shown) is connected. The LCD controller 219 controls the LCD controller 219 through the I / O 227
It is possible to display an image on a color LCD connected via the / F220.

Reference numeral 221 denotes a real-time clock module which counts the time.
202 has an alarm function for generating an interrupt.

Reference numeral 222 denotes a facsimile communication unit which is a unit which can be connected to a public line.
4 and a function of modulating digital data sent from the PCs 118 and 112 via the public line so that the modulated data sent from the public line can be processed in the image input / output device 100. Has a function to convert to data. In addition, a decompression unit 223, a compression unit 224, a rotation unit 225, and a scaling unit 2 that perform various image processing functions for transmitting and receiving images to and from another FAX or the like on a public line.
Equipped with 26 etc.

Reference numeral 232 denotes a PCI bus, which is controlled by arbitration performed by a PCI arbiter 230 that executes an arbitration function of the PCI bus.
The CPU 202 can transfer data to the PCI bus 232 via a PCI controller (not shown) built in the controller chip 201, and thereby the I / O
It is possible to access O227 and communicate with other peripheral devices connected beyond the PCI connector 231.

Reference numeral 228 denotes an HDI / F, which is an I / F for connecting the HDD 229. Generally, E-IDE,
An interface such as SCSI is used. HDD2
Reference numeral 29 denotes a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device for storing a plurality of applications, image data, and the like when the CPU 202 operates. The image input / output device 100
The job information including the job data (image data) of most of the jobs to be executed and various data necessary for the execution of the jobs is temporarily recorded in the HDD 229 (storage device) and stored in the printer unit 105, External devices (PCs 112, 1) are connected via a network connector 211 or the like.
18, WS 114, printer 111, fax 113
Etc.) is performed.

An information recording / reproducing device 123 for recording / reproducing a removable storage medium 124 connected to the end of the HDI / F 228 is connected via an I / F such as SCIS. With this information recording / reproducing device 123, it is possible to record and reproduce information in the image input / output device 100 on the removable storage medium 124.

In the image input / output device 100, a copy job in which an image read by the reader unit 101 is output by the printer unit 105, print data received from the PC 112, WS 114, or the like via the network 120 or PC 1
18, a print job for outputting print data received from the printer unit 105 by the printer unit 105, a first facsimile transmission job for transmitting an image read by the reader unit 101 to the fax 117 via the facsimile communication unit 222, PC 112, and WS 11.
4 via the network 120 or the data received from the PC 118.
A second facsimile transmission job to be transmitted to the facsimile 117 via the PC 22 and an image read by the reader unit 101 to the PC
Scanner jobs sent to 112, 118, WS 114, etc., facsimile data received by facsimile communication unit 222, first facsimile reception job output by printer unit 105, and facsimile data received by facsimile communication unit 222 are sent to PCs 112, 118, WS 114, Printer 111
And a plurality of jobs such as a second facsimile reception job to be sent to the user.

The inside of the HDD 229 is used by being divided into a plurality of areas as shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a schematic diagram for explaining an example of the recording area of the HDD 229 shown in FIG.

In FIG. 4A, an apparatus function software storage area 401 stores a software module for operating the function of the control unit 104. 40
Reference numeral 2 denotes an in-apparatus application software storage area for storing a plurality of applications using functions in the image input / output apparatus 100.

Reference numeral 403 denotes a user data storage area, which is an area that can be used by the user, and will be described in detail with reference to FIG. A temporary data storage area 404 temporarily stores job information of the job requested to be executed. 405
Is an area for storing LogAccount information.

In FIG. 4B, the user data storage area 403 is divided into a plurality of areas, and each of the divided areas (User n (n: 1 to x)) is like a BOX with a key. Can be used as an area for storing user personal data (user data) and an area for storing group data.

As shown in FIG. 4C, information such as a user name, a serial number, a user area password, and the number of user registration documents are stored in the user data storage area 403 in areas separated by User1 to Userx. Stored as user information. In addition, User1
Userx has a plurality of areas for storing job data, which can be stored as documents 1, 2, 3,....

Information such as a document name, a job type, and a password can be added to each job.
The job data to which the information is added is stored as job information. These passwords other than the administrator password do not need to be complicated, and a password of about five digits can be used.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating the recording area of the removable storage medium 124 shown in FIG.

Reference numeral 501 denotes an apparatus ID security area which stores the ID number of the image input / output apparatus 100 and the like. Reference numeral 502 denotes an apparatus configuration information security area which stores configuration information of the image input / output apparatus 100 indicating the configuration (functional configuration) of the image input apparatus 100. Reference numeral 503 denotes a device application software maintenance area for storing a plurality of applications using functions in the image input / output device 100.

Reference numeral 504 denotes a logAccount information security area. Reference numeral 505 denotes a user data security area, which is an area for storing user data.
This is an area for storing the same information divided as in (c). 506 is a temporary data security area. Reference numeral 507 denotes a device function software maintenance area.

As described above, the removable storage medium 124
Can be used by being divided into multiple areas.
229, SDRAM of one image input / output device 100
It is configured such that information of a storage device such as 205 can be recorded.

Hereinafter, referring to the flowchart of FIG. 6 and the like, when the information of the storage device of the image input / output device 100 is interactively recorded and stored in the removable storage medium 124 by the operation of the operator (administrator). Will be described.

In the present embodiment, as an example, a storage device (HDD 229, SDR
A case will be described in which information of an item selected by the administrator from all data, configuration information, and the like stored in the AM 205) is recorded in the removable storage medium 124. When the information in the image input / output device 100 is recorded in the storage medium 124 in the administrator mode by the operation of the administrator of the image input / output device 100, all information held in the image input / output device 100 Can access it. Further, the name, ID (serial number), date and time (for example, last access date and time of the storage medium 124) of the image input / output device 100, and administrator name are stored in a special area on the removable storage medium 124, for example, the device ID maintenance area 501. And the device management password. As a result, it is possible to restrict inadvertent access to the storage medium 124.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, which is executed by the CPU 202 based on the control program stored in the ROM 204 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the control procedure. Note that (601) to (610) indicate each step.

First, an input of a management password from the administrator of the image input / output device 100 is received (601), and it is determined whether or not the input management password is correct (6).
02) If the password is determined to be incorrect, the process is terminated. If the password is determined to be correct, the operator is recognized as having access to all information held by the image input / output device 100 at this point.

Next, information stored in the removable storage medium 124 is read (603), and the read content is displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a of the operation unit 108. Then, it is determined whether or not the removable storage medium 124 is recordable (604).
3 (610), and the process ends. Note that the case where the removable storage medium 124 cannot record is the case where the storage medium 124 is in a state where recording is not possible.

If it is determined that the storage medium 124 is recordable, and there is information already recorded on the removable storage medium 124, for example, another image input / output device may store the information in the storage medium 124. Is recorded, the recorded information is displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a, and a screen is displayed to prompt the user to determine whether to delete the recorded information or replace the storage medium, Waiting for an input from the administrator, and when the administrator instructs to exchange the storage medium from the operation unit 108, step (61)
If the process proceeds to step (0) and deletes information already recorded, the process proceeds to step (605). The process also proceeds to step (605) when no information is recorded on the storage medium 124.

In step (605), FIG.
Is displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a, and waits for the operation of the administrator. On the save item selection screen 1000, the administrator selects and specifies an item to be saved in the storage medium 124, and
When 3 is pressed and the designation of the storage item is completed, the information of the designated item stored in the storage device such as the HDD 229 and the SDRAM 205 in the image input / output device 100 starts to be recorded in the storage medium 124.

First, the storage medium 124 is stored in the device I
The D information (device name, ID (serial number), date and time, administrator name and management password) is recorded in a special area, for example, the device ID security area 501 (606).

Then, in order to sequentially record the information of the item designated in step (605) on the storage medium 124,
Information stored in the storage device of the image input / output device 100, for example, device configuration information, application software, an address book (for example, telephone number data of a facsimile transmission destination, etc.), usage status up to now, account information, and the like are collected ( 607), each area for storing the designated item is secured on the storage medium 124 (608), and the storage medium 12
The information of the designated item is recorded in the area 4 determined (609), and the processing is terminated.

Note that all information stored in the storage device may be collected in step (607), or information on items specified in step (605) may be collected. .

Further, regarding the job data (or job information) in the user data storage area 403 shown in FIG. 4, the user of the storage medium 124 keeps the structure as shown in FIGS. 4 (b) and (c). It is recorded in the data security area 505. It is also possible to record the processing job and the waiting job stored in the temporary data storage area 404 in the storage medium 124, but this is not usually performed in this mode. When a failure occurs in the image input / output apparatus 100, the job information of the job being processed and the job on standby is always recorded on the storage medium 124 as much as possible.

The automatic recording operation to the storage medium 124 when a failure such as a failure occurs in the image input / output device 100 will be described below with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, which is executed by the CPU 202 based on a control program stored in the ROM 204 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the control procedure. Note that (701) to (706) indicate each step.

When a fatal fault occurs in the printer unit 105, the reader unit 101, etc. shown in FIG. 2 and a sensor (not shown) detects the fault (701), the HDD 22
9. Recording of all information stored in a storage device such as the SDRAM 205 to the storage medium 124 is started. In this case, the administrator password is not required to be input and is automatically recorded in a large-capacity removable storage medium in the following procedure.

At step (702), it is determined whether or not the storage medium 124 is inserted into the information recording / reproducing apparatus 123, and whether or not the storage medium 124 is recordable even if inserted. If it is determined that it has not been inserted or that recording is not possible, recording is not performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, when it is determined that the storage medium 124 inserted into the information recording / reproducing apparatus 123 is in a recordable state, the storage medium 124 is provided with apparatus ID information (name of apparatus, ID (serial number)). , Date and time, administrator name and management password) are recorded in a special area, for example, the apparatus ID maintenance area 501 (703).

Next, in order to sequentially record all information stored in the storage device on the storage medium 124, information and the like stored in the storage device in the image input / output device 100 are collected (7).
04), each area is secured on the storage medium 124 as shown in FIG. 5 in order to store all the information stored in the storage device (705), and the information collected in a predetermined area of the storage medium 124. Is recorded (706), and the process ends.

If the information has already been recorded on the storage medium 124, all the information stored in the storage device is forcibly recorded by overwriting the content stored on the storage medium 124. In addition, a job whose processing is interrupted and a job that is waiting in the temporary data storage area 403 of the HDD 229 are also recorded in the temporary data security area 506 of the storage medium 124.

When restoring the information stored in the storage medium 124 to the image input / output device 100, the image input / output device 100 cannot read the data unless the administrator inputs the administrator password.

The control procedure for reading out the information stored in the storage medium 124 will be described below with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart for explaining an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, which is executed by the CPU 202 based on a control program stored in the ROM 204 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the control procedure. Note that (801) to (807) indicate each step. Here, the device configuration information recorded on the storage medium 124 and the image input / output device 100 to be read are described.
The case where the device configuration information is the same as the device configuration information is described.

First, when reading information recorded in the storage medium 124, the storage medium 124 in which various kinds of device information (such as information recorded in each area shown in FIG. 5) are recorded is inserted into the device ( 801), various device information recorded in the storage medium 124 is read (802), and the administrator inputs the management password of the device recorded in the storage medium 124 (803), and performs password collation (804). ,
If the passwords do not match, the process ends.

On the other hand, when the passwords match, all the information recorded in the storage medium 124 can be accessed, and the information items recorded in the storage medium 124 are read item selection items shown in FIG. Screen 1100
Is displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a as shown in FIG.
5) An item to be read is selected on the read item selection screen 1100 by the administrator (selection input to the check box 1001), and it is determined whether reading of information on the selected item is instructed (OK key 1003 is pressed). (806) If it is determined that no instruction has been given, the process returns to step (806), and waits until a read instruction is given by the administrator. If a read instruction is given by the administrator, the item for which read was given is given. If there is, the information of the designated item is read out from the storage medium 124, written into any one of the storage devices in the image input / output device that stores the read out information (807), and the process is terminated.

Further, in the present embodiment, the case where the information of the selected item is stored in the HDD 229, the SDRAM 205, or the like after the management password input by the administrator is collated, but is stored in the information recording / reproducing device 123. When mounted on the medium 124, the controller chip 201 may automatically read information stored in the storage medium 124 and store the information in the HDD 229 and the SDRAM 205.

The above-described processing is performed, for example, when a failure of the storage device in the image input / output device 100 (HDD life, damage,
Failure of the backup power supply of the SDRAM 205) and the image input / output device 1 such as the printer unit 105 and the reader unit 101.
When the image input / output device has a functional failure or the like, or when the image input / output device itself is replaced with another image input / output device, the repaired or restored image input / output device or the newly replaced image input / output device is used. By performing the operation on the device, the information stored in the previous image input / output device can be simply read by reading the information written on the storage medium without newly inputting the setting or creating various data. Various information can be easily restored.

Hereinafter, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 9 and the like, temporary data for storing job information of a job in process or unprocessed in the item selected on the read item selection screen 1100 shown in FIG. Processing when a storage area is selected and the OK key 1103 is pressed will be described.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment, which is executed by the CPU 202 based on the control program stored in the ROM 204 shown in FIG. Corresponds to the control procedure. (901) to (906)
Each step is shown.

First, in the read item selection screen 1100 shown in FIG. 11, it is determined whether or not an item in the temporary data storage area has been designated by the administrator (901).
If it is determined that the instruction has not been issued, the process ends. If it is determined that the instruction has been issued, job information that is being processed or has not been processed, which is recorded in the temporary data security area 505 of the storage medium 124, is read out ( 902).

Next, it is determined whether job information that is being processed or has not been processed is stored in the storage medium 124 (903). If not, the processing is terminated and stored. In this case, the job list screen 1200 shown in FIG.
08a (904) and the job list screen 1200
When a selection input of a job to be executed is received from the administrator and an OK key 1203 is pressed, it is determined whether there is a job selected on the job list screen 1200 (905), and there is no selected job. If it is determined that the job is completed, the process is terminated. If it is determined that there is a selected job, the jobs selected on the job list screen 1200 are sequentially executed (905), (906), and the stick (90) is executed.
When the execution of all the jobs selected in 5) is completed, the processing is completed.

Note that the processing shown in the flowchart of FIG. 9 is performed in step (807) of the flowchart shown in FIG.
Or after the step (806) of the flowchart shown in FIG. 8, the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 is executed, and after the processing of the flowchart ends, The process may shift to step (807) in the flowchart shown in FIG.

Further, when a failure occurs in the image input / output device 100, the information of the storage device is automatically transferred to the unprocessed job information or the job information being processed in the temporary data security area 404 of the storage medium 124. When reading is instructed on the reading item selection screen 1100, the job information recorded on the storage medium 124 is not written in the temporary data storage area 404 shown in FIG. It is also possible to read job information directly from the storage medium 124 and execute the designated job.

FIG. 10 is a view for explaining an example of a save item selection screen 1000 displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a shown in FIG.

In FIG. 10, reference numeral 1001 denotes a check box which is depressed when selecting an item to be recorded in the storage medium 124 among the items displayed in the item column 1002. 1
Reference numeral 003 denotes an OK key which is pressed when information of the item selected in the check box 1001 is recorded in the storage medium 124. A cancel key 1004 is pressed to cancel recording of information.

FIG. 11 shows a read item selection screen 110 displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a shown in FIG.
It is a figure explaining an example of 0.

In FIG. 11, reference numeral 1101 denotes a check box which is depressed when selecting an item to be read by the image input / output device 100 from among the items displayed in the item column 1102. An OK key 1103 is a check box 1
The button is pressed when the information of the item selected in 101 is read by the image input / output apparatus 100. A cancel key 1104 is pressed to cancel reading of information.

FIG. 12 is a view for explaining an example of the job list screen 1200 displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel 108a shown in FIG.

In FIG. 12, a check box 1201 is pressed to select a job to be executed by the image input / output device 100 from the jobs displayed in the job list 1202. An OK key 1203 is pressed when the image input / output apparatus 100 executes the job selected by the check box. A cancel key 1204 is pressed when canceling the job execution.

Although the present embodiment does not particularly refer to the large-capacity detachable storage medium 124, since the HDD 229 in the image input / output device 100 has been increased in capacity, the DVD-RAM , Magneto-optical disk, CD
-RW or the like, or another removable storage medium.

As described above, the image processing apparatus shown in this embodiment can transmit and receive processing requests and information from the outside such as a PC to the reader unit 101 for inputting an image of a document as digital image data. And a control unit 104 capable of transferring the data to an external PC, a printer 111, or the like or a printer unit 105 in response to a request from the outside, and a plurality of volatile memories, such as a RAM 207 and an SDRAM 205.
And a ROM 204 as a non-volatile memory and an HDD 229 as a large-capacity fixed storage unit, and an information recording / reproducing device 123 for writing and reading information to and from a large-capacity removable storage medium 124 ( The image input / output device 100) is configured.

A CPU 202 is provided for collecting information temporarily and permanently stored in a memory in the image input / output device 100 and recording the collected information in a large-capacity removable storage medium 124. ing.

Further, all information (data) stored in the HDD 229 is stored in a large-capacity removable storage medium 1.
24 is provided with a CPU 202.

The information of the user data storage area 403, which is a special area used only for each user or group and stored in the HDD 229, and its security information are stored in a large-capacity removable storage medium 124.
Is provided.

The CPU 202 is also provided with a CPU 202 for recording job information during processing stored in the temporary data storage area 404 of the HDD 229 in the storage medium 124.

Therefore, by recording the information stored in the image input / output device 100 on the removable storage medium 124, the information in the device can be backed up with security, and the image can be further backed up. By mounting the removable storage medium 124 on which information stored in the input / output device 100 is recorded in a different device, the information recorded on the removable storage medium 124 is read out,
The read information is stored in various memories and storage devices inside the device (HDD 229, SDRAM 205, RAM 207, etc.)
By writing to the device, information held in the device can be backed up to a storage medium while ensuring security, and can be restored and copied to a storage device in the device, and information in the device can be copied to another device. It can be used in the device.

Further, when the information recorded in the storage medium 124 includes job information that is being processed or is not processed, execution of the job processing is determined by the operator.
Processing of job information that is being processed or is not processed
In the case where the image input / output device 100 breaks down, another image input / output device can execute a job that is being processed or has not been processed.

Further, since the configuration information of the image input / output device 100, the account book, the address book of the facsimile transmission destination, and the like can be backed up in the storage medium 124, for example, the image input / output device is replaced with another image input / output device. Even in this case, information necessary for another image input / output device is recorded in the storage medium 124 from the original image input / output device to the storage medium 124, and the recorded storage medium 124 is stored in another image input / output device. By reading, even if the device is replaced, the same data as the information held in the original image input / output device can be stored easily and in a short time while maintaining security.

In this embodiment, the HDDs 229 and SD
The case where the data stored in the storage device such as the RAM 205 is backed up to the storage medium 124 has been described. However, the type of the storage device is not limited to the HDD and the SDRAM, and the rewritable nonvolatile memory such as the flash ROM and the EEPROM is used. Data stored in a volatile memory such as a memory or a RAM may be backed up in the storage medium 124, or data stored in the ROM may be recorded in the storage medium 124. .

Further, in the present embodiment, the SDRAM 20
5, various software and user data stored in the HDD 229, data such as unprocessed job information temporarily stored, data relating to logs and / or accounts, an address book, Although a case has been described where various setting information and the like are selectively recorded by the administrator or automatically when a failure occurs, the information recorded on the storage medium 124 may be other than the above-described information. Information on the network 120 stored in the HDD 229 or the like, for example, the network 120
The information indicating the address of the PC, printer, scanner, server, or the like connected to the storage medium 124 may be recorded in the storage medium 124.

When a failure occurs, the HDD 229, SDR
All the information stored in the AM 205 is automatically stored in the storage medium 1
Although the case where the information is recorded in the H.24 has been described, a configuration in which some or all of the information is automatically recorded may be employed. In this case, the administrator who inputs the password can set items to be recorded in the storage medium 124 at the time of failure from the operation unit 108 or the like in advance or when a failure occurs. Information to HDD 22
9. The recording from the SDRAM 205 to the storage medium 124 is performed.

Further, FIG. 5 shows an example of the recording area of the storage medium 124. However, as shown in FIG. 5, a plurality of security areas need not be secured on the same storage medium. May be configured to be stored in the storage medium.

Further, a configuration may be adopted in which the techniques described in the above embodiments are implemented in combination.

Further, in the above embodiment, the image processing apparatus is described as an example, but various image processing apparatuses,
For example, an electrophotographic apparatus, a digital copying machine, a monochrome copying machine, a color laser copying machine, a laser beam printer, a color laser printer, an ink jet printer, a thermal transfer printer, a facsimile machine, a copying function and / or a printing function and / or a facsimile function are provided. The technology described in the present invention or the present embodiment may be applied to a multifunctional copying machine and the like, a control device for controlling various image processing devices, an information processing device, a data processing device, and the like.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator, etc. are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

The functions shown in FIG. 6, FIG. 7, FIG. 8, and FIG. 9 in this embodiment may be executed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program code of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiment is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or the CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, C
D-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, etc. can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program code is read based on the instruction of the program code. The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

[0144]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the present invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus having one or more functions, wherein a first storage means for storing information on the image processing apparatus, and a second storage means for storing information on a removable storage medium. Collecting means for collecting information on the image processing device stored in the first storage means, and storing the information on the image processing apparatus collected by the collecting means in the removable storage medium in the second storage means. With the control means, the information about the image processing apparatus can be securely maintained in a removable storage medium.

According to the second invention, there is provided a selecting means for selecting information on the image processing apparatus to be stored in the removable storage medium, and the control means is configured to control the image processing selected by the selecting means. Since information about the device is stored in the second storage means, the user can selectively maintain information about the image processing device in the storage medium.

According to the third invention, there is provided an image processing apparatus having one or a plurality of functions, wherein the first storage means for storing information on the image processing apparatus and the information are stored in a removable storage medium. A second storage unit, a collection unit that collects information about the image processing device stored in the first storage unit when a failure occurs in the image processing device, and the image processing device collected by the collection unit Control means for automatically storing information on the removable storage medium in the second storage means with the second storage means, so that loss of information stored in a backup memory or the like due to occurrence of a failure can be reliably prevented. At the same time, information stored in the HDD can be stored in a removable storage medium that is safer and easier to handle.

According to the fourth aspect, there is provided a reading means for reading information stored in the removable storage medium,
Since the control unit causes the reading unit to read the information on the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium and stores the information in the first storage unit, the information stored in the storage medium can be returned to the device. It is possible to easily restore the information storage state in the device.

According to the fifth aspect, when the storage medium is mounted on the reading means, the control means automatically reads information on the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium. And read the first
Since the information is stored in the storage means, the information in the apparatus can be easily and quickly restored.

According to the sixth aspect, the control means reads information relating to a job executed by the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium and executes the job, so that the information is stored in the storage medium. An unprocessed or in-process job received by the failed image processing apparatus can be executed.

According to the seventh aspect, the control means stores all the information on the image processing apparatus stored in the first storage means in the removable storage medium in the second storage means. Thus, information on the image processing apparatus can be completely maintained.

According to the eighth aspect, since the first storage means includes a rewritable storage section, information that is easily lost can be securely stored in a storage medium.

According to the ninth aspect, the first storage means includes the rewritable nonvolatile storage section, so that the lost information can be securely stored in the storage medium.

According to a tenth aspect, there is provided a method for controlling an image processing apparatus having one or more functions, the method comprising a first storage means for storing information relating to the image processing apparatus itself. A collection step of collecting information about the image processing device stored in the storage device, and a storage step of storing the information about the image processing device collected in the collection step in a removable storage medium. Can be securely maintained in a removable storage medium.

According to the eleventh aspect, there is provided a reading step of reading information relating to the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium and storing the information in the first storage means. And the information storage state in the device can be easily restored.

Therefore, various setting information, software, user data, job information, and the like stored in the image processing apparatus can be backed up in a removable storage medium. There is an effect that the information stored in the storage device can be securely maintained.

Further, by providing a means for recording configuration information, an account, an address book of the apparatus, and the like, an effect is obtained that the replacement of the apparatus can be performed while maintaining security.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a configuration of an image processing apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image processing apparatus according to the exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a control unit illustrated in FIG.

4 is a schematic diagram illustrating an example of a recording area of the HDD shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram illustrating a recording area of a removable storage medium shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the embodiment.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a third data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a save item selection screen displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel illustrated in FIG.

11 is a view for explaining an example of a read item selection screen displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a job list screen displayed on the large liquid crystal touch panel illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 101 reader unit 103 scanner unit 104 control unit 105 printer unit 108 operation unit 106 printer unit 124 storage medium 123 information recording / reproducing device

Claims (11)

[Claims] An image processing apparatus having one or more functions, a first storage unit for storing information on the image processing device, a second storage unit for storing information on a removable storage medium, A collection unit that collects information about the image processing device stored in the first storage unit; and stores the information about the image processing device collected by the collection unit in the removable storage medium in the second storage unit. An image processing apparatus comprising: a control unit. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a selection unit configured to select information on the image processing device to be stored in the removable storage medium, wherein the control unit stores information on the image processing device selected by the selection unit. 2. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image data is stored in two storage units. 3. An image processing apparatus having one or more functions, a first storage means for storing information on the image processing apparatus, a second storage means for storing information on a removable storage medium, A collection unit that collects information about the image processing device stored in the first storage unit when a failure occurs in the image processing device; and automatically collects information about the image processing device collected by the collection unit. Control means for causing the second storage means to store the data in the removable storage medium. 4. A reading means for reading information stored in the removable storage medium, wherein the control means causes the reading means to read information on the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium. The image processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the image data is stored in the first storage means. 5. The control means, when the storage medium is mounted on the reading means, automatically causes the reading means to read information on the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium, and 5. The image processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the image processing apparatus stores the information in a first storage unit. 6. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit reads information on a job executed by the image processing apparatus from the removable storage medium and executes the job. An image processing apparatus as described in the above. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit causes the second storage unit to store all of the information about the image processing apparatus stored in the first storage unit in the removable storage medium. 4. The image processing device according to 1 or 3. 8. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first storage unit includes a rewritable storage unit. 9. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the first storage unit includes a rewritable nonvolatile storage unit. 10. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus having a first storage means for storing information relating to the image processing apparatus itself and having one or more functions, wherein the image stored in the first storage means is provided. A method for controlling an image processing apparatus, comprising: a collection step of collecting information about a processing apparatus; and a storage step of storing information about the image processing apparatus collected in the collection step in a removable storage medium. 11. The method according to claim 10, further comprising a reading step of reading information about the image processing device from the removable storage medium and storing the information in the first storage unit.