JP2001066952A - Image forming device management system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To lighten the operation at the time of exchanging an image forming device or a data communication equipment. SOLUTION: The data communication equipment 7 stores maintenance contract management data respectively received from respective image forming devices 1 to 5 and transmits the maintenance contract management data to a central controller 6 periodically at an interval longer than transmission interval of each image forming device 1 to 5 and also stores the data as maintenance contract management data history together with each management data and a transmission data. Also the equipment 7 transmits a corresponding maintenance contract management data history to the image forming device in accordance with the request of one of the devices 1 to 5, and also transmits a request for rewriting the stored maintenance contract management data history to the controller 6. The controller 6 transmits the rewritten data of the data history to the equipment 7 corresponding to the request for rewriting the data history received from the equipment 7 to makes the equipment 7 rewrite the data history.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus management system in which an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, a facsimile machine and the like and a central control unit are connected via a data communication device and a communication line.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As such an image forming apparatus management system, an image forming apparatus (such as a copying machine which is premised on remote diagnosis) installed at an unspecified number of customers (users) is used as a data communication apparatus and a public line. It is generally known that a connection can be made to a central control device (host machine) installed at a sales or service base (company) using a communication line such as the above.

[0003] Such an image forming apparatus management system includes:
By performing the following controls (1) to (3),
It is an object of the present invention to provide an efficient and quick service response. (1) Communication control from the central control device to the image forming device (2) Communication control from the image forming device to the central control device or the data communication device (3) Unique control of the data communication device

Some of such image forming apparatus management systems perform the following processing. The image forming apparatus accumulates the number of formed images (counts the total counter value) in accordance with the image forming operation, stores it as maintenance contract management data, and periodically transmits the maintenance contract management data to the data communication device. I do.

[0005] The data communication device stores the maintenance contract management data received from the image forming apparatus, and periodically transmits the maintenance contract management data to the central control device at intervals longer than the transmission interval of the image forming device to perform maintenance contract management. In addition to performing the management, the maintenance contract management data transmitted to the central control device and the transmission date and time are stored as a maintenance contract management data history, and the maintenance contract management data history is stored in response to a request from the image forming apparatus. The history of the maintenance contract management data is transmitted to the forming apparatus or in response to a request from the central control unit.

In such an image forming apparatus management system, the central control unit must accurately manage the maintenance contract of the image forming apparatus. It is necessary to rewrite the maintenance contract management data history in the data communication device. That is, when the image forming apparatus is replaced with another machine, it is necessary to initialize the maintenance contract management data history stored in the data communication apparatus. Further, when the data communication device is replaced, it is necessary to write the maintenance contract management data history stored in the data communication device before replacement into the data communication device after replacement.

[0007]

However, in the conventional image forming apparatus management system described above, when the maintenance contract management data history in the data communication apparatus is rewritten by exchanging the image forming apparatus or the data communication apparatus, the central control apparatus is required. Therefore, it is necessary to issue a request for this purpose, so that a person who exchanges the image forming apparatus or the data communication apparatus (a service person or the like) needs to contact the operator of the central control apparatus by telephone or the like.

Further, the data communication device has a clock means (for example, a real-time clock circuit) for outputting the current date and time in order to store the maintenance contract management data transmitted to the central control device and the transmission date and time as the maintenance contract management data history. However, if there is an error in the current date and time output from the clock means, the contents of the maintenance contract management data history are erroneously updated, so that the wrong display is displayed on the operation display section of the image forming apparatus. The contract management data history will be displayed.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and has as its object to reduce the work required when replacing an image forming apparatus or a data communication apparatus in an image forming apparatus management system. It is another object of the present invention to automatically correct the maintenance contract management data history in the data communication device to an accurate one when an error occurs in the current date and time output from the clock means of the data communication device. I do.

[0010]

According to the present invention, an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine and a central control device are connected via a data communication device and a communication line, and the central control device connects the communication line and the data communication device. In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus management system in which an image forming apparatus is remotely managed via a computer is characterized as follows.

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus, comprising: a number accumulating means for accumulating the number of image formed sheets in accordance with an image forming operation; A data storage unit; and a maintenance contract management data transmitting unit for periodically transmitting the maintenance contract management data stored in the unit to the data communication device, wherein the data communication device stores the maintenance contract management data received from the image forming apparatus. A maintenance contract management data storage means for storing the maintenance contract management data stored in the means, a maintenance contract management data transmitting means for periodically transmitting the maintenance contract management data to the central control device at an interval longer than a transmission interval of the image forming apparatus; Maintenance contract management data history storage for storing the maintenance contract management data transmitted by the means and the transmission date and time as a maintenance contract management data history And a maintenance contract management data history transmitting means for transmitting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage means to the image forming apparatus in response to a request from the image forming apparatus; and a maintenance contract management data history. Rewriting request transmitting means for transmitting a rewriting request of the maintenance contract management data history stored in the storage means to the central control device, wherein the central control device stores the maintenance contract management data in response to the rewriting request from the data communication device. Rewriting data transmitting means for transmitting the rewriting data of the history to the data communication device.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the first aspect, the rewrite request transmitting unit receives the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage unit and the image forming apparatus. The means for comparing the maintenance contract management data with the central control unit when the two are inconsistent with each other and transmitting a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage means to the central control device. .

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the first aspect, the rewriting request transmitting means includes a transmission date and time and a current date and time of the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage means. If the time is free for a certain period of time or if the current date and time is earlier than the transmission date and time, the central control unit issues a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage unit. Means for sending to

[0014]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

This image forming apparatus management system includes five image forming apparatuses (copiers and the like) 1 to 1 for remote diagnosis.
5 and a central control device 6 are connected via a data communication device 7 and a communication line 8, so that the central control device 6 enables centralized remote management of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5.

The data communication device 7 selectively transmits a command signal from the central control device 6 to the image forming devices 1 to 5 and conversely sends various reports from the image forming devices 1 to 5 via the communication line 8. And sends it to the central controller 6.

The data communication device 7 is energized for 24 hours, and normally enables communication with the central control device 6 even at night when the power of the image forming devices 1 to 5 is off. The data communication device 7 and each of the image forming devices 1 to
5 is connected by multi-drop connection via a serial communication interface RS-485, and communicates with each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 by selecting and polling from the data communication apparatus 7 described later with reference to FIGS. .

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control unit of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. The control units of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 are a CPU 11, a real-time clock circuit 12, a ROM 13, a RAM 14, and a nonvolatile RAM 1, respectively.
5, a PPC (image forming apparatus) controller including an input / output port 16, and serial communication control units 17a, 17b, 17c, a personal interface (hereinafter, "interface" is abbreviated as "I / F") 18,
A system bus 19 is provided.

The CPU 11 is a central processing unit that controls the whole of the control section by a control program in the ROM 13. The real-time clock circuit 12 outputs the current time (date and time), and the CPU 11 reads the current time (date and time) so that the current date and time can be known. The ROM 13 is a read-only memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 11.

The RAM 14 is a random access memory used as a work memory or the like used when the CPU 11 performs data processing. Non-volatile RAM 15
Is a memory for storing, for example, the contents of a mode instruction from an operation display unit or the like described later with reference to FIG. The input / output port 16 connects output loads such as a motor, a solenoid, and a clutch in the image forming apparatus, and sensors and switches.

The serial communication control unit 17a exchanges signals with an operation display unit (not shown).
The serial communication control unit 17b exchanges signals with a document feed unit (not shown). The serial communication control unit 17c exchanges signals with a transfer paper post-processing unit (not shown).

The personal I / F 18 is an interface circuit that controls communication with the data communication device 7, and has a CP
It is provided to reduce the load for communication processing with the data communication device 7 of U11. Of course, CPU11
If the processing capacity of the personal I / F 18 is sufficient,
This function may be incorporated in the CPU 11. The main functions of this personal I / F 18 are as follows (1) to
This is as shown in (4).

(1) Monitoring polling and selecting from the data communication device 7 (2) Processing for acknowledgment and negative response to the data communication device 7 (3) Validity of data transmitted and received with the data communication device 7 Check, parity check, and retransmission request processing when an error occurs (4) Header processing of data transmitted / received to / from data communication device 7

The system bus 19 is a bus line including an address bus, a control bus, and a data bus.
PU11, real-time clock circuit 12, ROM1
3, RAM 14, non-volatile RAM 15, input / output port 1
6, Serial communication control units 17a, 17b, 17
c and the personal I / F 18 are mutually connected.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the personal I / F 18 of FIG. This personal I / F1
8 includes a CPU 21, a dual port memory 22, registers 23 to 26, an input port 27, a serial communication control unit 28, a local bus 29, and a device code setting switch 30.

The CPU 21 has a central processing unit, ROM, R
This is a one-chip microcomputer composed of an AM or the like, and controls the entire personal I / F 18 as a whole. The dual port memory 22 is a data memory that is readable and writable by both the CPU 21 and the CPU 11 of FIG. 2, and is used for exchanging text data between the personal I / F 18 and the PPC controller 31.

The PPC controller 31 includes the CPU 11, the real-time clock circuit 12, the ROM 1
3, RAM 14, non-volatile RAM 15, input / output port 1
6, and serial communication control units 17a, 17b, 1
7c. The registers 23 to 26 are used for control when the text data is transmitted and received.
Detailed description is omitted.

The device code setting switch 30 is used to set a unique device code for each image forming apparatus, and is used for device code identification at the time of polling and selecting from the data communication device 7. The serial communication control unit 28 is connected to the personal I / O of the data communication device 7 and / or another image forming device.
Connected to F18.

FIG. 4 is a layout diagram showing a configuration example of an operation display unit (here, an operation display unit corresponding to a copying machine) of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. This operation display section
A general control unit (for example, the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2)
ROM that stores a control program, a CPU that executes various controls according to the control program, a RAM that temporarily stores data, a nonvolatile RAM that is backed up by a battery, a serial communication control unit, and an input / output It has a port and the like, and exchanges data with the serial communication control unit 17a in FIG. 2, but the details are omitted.

The operation display unit includes a numeric keypad 71, a clear / stop key 72, a print key 73, an enter key 74, an interrupt key 75, a preheat / mode clear key 76, a mode confirmation key 77, a screen, in addition to the control unit described above. Switch key 78, call key 79, registration key 80, guidance key 81, display contrast volume 8
2 and a character display 83.

The numeric keypad 71 is a key for inputting numerical values such as the number of images to be formed (the number of copies) and the magnification. The clear / stop key 72 is a key for clearing the set number (the number of formed images) and for stopping the image forming (copying) operation. The print key 73 is a key for starting execution of an image forming operation.

An enter key 74 is a key for confirming designation of numerical values such as a zoom magnification and a number for binding margin dimensions. The interrupt key 75 is a key used when interrupting a copy and copying another original. The preheat / mode clear key 76 is a key for canceling the contents of all the set image forming modes, and for setting the preheat to set the power saving state.

The mode confirmation key 77 is a key for confirming each image forming mode selectively displayed on the character display 83 in a list display. The screen switching key 78 is a key for switching the display mode of the character display 83 according to the skill level. The call key 79 is a key for calling a user program.

The registration key 80 is a key for registering a user program. The guidance key 81 is a key for displaying a guidance message or the like on the character display 83. The display contrast volume 82 is for adjusting the contrast of the character display 83.

The character display 83 uses a full-dot display element such as a liquid crystal (LCD) or a fluorescent display tube, and has a large number of touch sensors built therein (for example, every 8 × 8 display pixels).
Although the details are omitted here, the state of the image forming apparatus (the copying apparatus in this example) as shown in FIG. "No transfer paper" etc.), the number of formed images, and a normal image forming mode screen showing various keys.

Here, by pressing (touching) a key (display section) on the screen, the paper feed stage (paper size),
Automatic paper (the paper feed tray containing the optimal transfer paper is automatically selected according to the original size and set magnification), image density (copy density), and automatic density (image density is automatically selected according to the density of the original) Various image forming modes related to image forming operations, such as magnification (magnification / reduction / enlargement, paper magnification / magnification / magnification / magnification / magnification), double-sided mode, binding margin mode, sort mode, etc. Can be selected and displayed, and the pressed key switches to black and white reverse display.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of the data communication device 7 of FIG. This data communication device 7
It comprises a control section 41, an auto dialer section 42, a line control section 43 and the like. The control unit 41 includes a plurality of image forming apparatuses 1
5 and the reception of a command signal from the central control device 6 via the communication line 8 is controlled.

The auto dialer unit 42 is provided in the image forming apparatus 1.
A self-originating call is made to the central control unit 6 in response to various reports from. The line control unit 43 controls connection with the communication line 8 and switching control with the general telephone 44.

Although not shown, the control unit 41 has an RO storing a control program in the same manner as a general control unit (for example, the control units in the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2).
M, C that executes various controls by its control program
It includes a PU, a RAM for temporarily storing data, a nonvolatile RAM backed up by a battery, a serial communication control unit, an input / output port, and a real-time clock circuit (clock means) for outputting the current date and time.

The input port of the control unit 41 includes:
The maintenance contract management data initialization switch (SW) 41a is connected. The CPU in the control unit 41 turns on the maintenance contract management data initialization switch 41a via the input port.
/ OFF is detected, and when ON is detected, processing according to the present invention described later is performed.

Further, in the nonvolatile RAM in the control unit 41,
The maintenance contract management data (total counter value) received from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 is stored, and the central control unit 6
The maintenance contract management data transmitted to the server and the transmission date and time are stored together as a maintenance contract management data history, the transmission data from one of the central control device 6 and the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the other, a plurality of image forming apparatuses Device code and ID code for specifying one of the devices 1 to 5 (described with reference to FIGS. 9 and 10), telephone number of central control device 6, number of recalls when line connection is not successful, Recall intervals and the like are stored.

Next, a schematic function of the image forming apparatus management system will be described. The functions of the image forming apparatus management system are roughly classified into the following three types (1) to (3). (1) Communication control from the central control device 6 to the image forming devices 1 to 5 (2) Communication control from the image forming devices 1 to 5 to the central control device 6 or the data communication device 7 (3) Data communication device 7 control

The communication control from the central control unit 6 to the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 in (1) includes, for example, the following (a) to (c)
There are the following. (A) Total number of image formations (integrated number of image formations) of a specific image forming apparatus, number of image formations for each paper feed tray (paper supply tray), number of image formations for each transfer paper size, number of misfeeds, transfer paper size Read and reset the number of misfeeds for each transfer paper and the number of misfeeds for each transfer paper transport position

(B) Setting and reading of adjustment values such as control voltage, current, resistance and timing of each unit constituting the image forming apparatus. (C) Central control from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 by communication control of (2). Return result for communication control to device 6

These controls are performed by receiving a command signal from the central control unit 6 and selecting the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 from the data communication apparatus 7. The term “selecting” refers to a function of selecting one of the five connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 for communication.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the selecting operation in the data communication device 7. Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 has a unique (specific) device code, and the data communication apparatus 7 includes a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a predetermined selecting function and an image forming apparatus to be selected. Serial communication interface RS-48 with device code of device
5 on.

Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 compares the next device code with its own device code by using a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating the selecting function. Know that was selected. Here, if there is data to be transmitted, the selected image forming apparatus outputs a busy response using a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes).

When receiving the busy response, the data communication device 7 suspends the selecting operation and shifts to the polling operation described with reference to FIG. When there is no data to be transmitted, the selected image forming apparatus determines whether or not it is possible to support the selecting, and if it is possible, an acknowledgment with a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes). To perform communication with the data communication device 7.

If it is not possible to respond, a negative response is output with a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes), and the communication with the data communication device 7 is terminated. Also,
If the image forming apparatus corresponding to the device code output from the data communication device 7 cannot output an affirmative response or a negative response due to power OFF or the like, the data communication device 7 performs a selecting operation after a predetermined period of time has elapsed. To end.

The communication control from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the central control device 6 or the data communication device 7 in (2) includes, for example, the following (a) to (f). (A) After executing the above-mentioned selecting, the corresponding image forming apparatus returns data to the data communication apparatus 7. (B) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 immediately transmits data (reporting factor) indicating the occurrence of an abnormality such as a failure that disables the image forming operation to the data communication apparatus 7 and the communication line. 8 to the central controller 6 (emergency notification).

(C) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
The user (customer) inputs a user request for inputting a necessary request (repair request or supply replenishment request) from the image forming mode by a key operation on the operation display unit shown in FIG. 4. The mode is shifted to the mode, a user request input screen is displayed on the character display 83 of the operation display unit, and when the user inputs a required request by pressing a predetermined key on the screen, data indicating that. Is immediately reported to the central control device 6 via the data communication device 7 and the communication line 8 (emergency report).

(D) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
When the total number of image formations (total counter value) reaches a predetermined fixed number (report level value), data indicating the corresponding information (for example, the total number of image formations or transfer sheet order information, etc.) is immediately sent. A notification is sent to the central control device 6 via the data communication device 7 and the communication line 8 (emergency notification).

(E) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 notifies the data communication apparatus 7 of data indicating the total number of image formations at predetermined time intervals.
At the designated time of the day (this day) (this is set by the central control device 6 and stored in the data communication device 7), and the data received so far is put together to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8. Make a report (non-emergency report). This communication control includes a control for transmitting data to the central controller 6 without waiting for the specified time when the number of reports of data received up to the specified time reaches a predetermined number. included.

(F) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
Although it is possible to start the image forming operation, if an event that requires preventive maintenance occurs, such as the specified number of replacement parts, approaching the specified time, or reaching the sensor's standard level, data indicating that fact is sent to the data. The data communication device 7 informs the communication device 7 of the specified time (this is the central control device 6).
And stored in the data communication device 7), and collectively notifies the central control device 6 via the communication line 8 of the received data (non-emergency notification). This communication control includes a control for transmitting data to the central controller 6 without waiting for the specified time when the number of reports of data received up to the specified time reaches a predetermined number. included.

These communication controls are performed at the time of polling from the data communication device 7. Polling refers to a function of sequentially designating five connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and confirming the presence or absence of a communication request from the designated image forming apparatus. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the polling operation in the data communication device 7.

The data communication device 7 sends out a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a predetermined polling function and a device code of the image forming apparatus to be selected to the serial communication interface RS-485. Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 uses a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a polling function.
The next device code is compared with its own device code, and when both codes match, it is known that the user has been polled.

Next, the polled image forming apparatus:
If there is transmission data (a communication request to the data communication device 7 or the central control device 6), communication with the data communication device 7 is started, and if there is no communication request or when the started communication ends, a predetermined specific code is used. The communication with the data communication device 7 is terminated by outputting a termination response (or a combination of codes). Upon receiving the end response, the data communication device 7 shifts to polling of the next image forming device.

If the image forming apparatus corresponding to the device code output from the data communication device 7 cannot start communication or cannot output an end response due to power-off or the like, the data communication device 7 is determined in advance. After the elapse of the given time, the polling operation ends. This polling is sequentially repeated for each of the connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 unless selecting occurs.

The control unique to the data communication device 7 of (3) includes, for example, the following (a) and (b). (A) Reading (reading) of the total counter value (maintenance contract management data) of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 (b) From the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 of (2) to the central control device 6
Return result for communication control to

The reading of the total counter value is controlled by
1 day from the data communication device 7 to each of the image forming devices 1 to 5
The selection is performed at the scheduled time (00:00, but when the power of the image forming apparatus is turned off at this time, when the power is turned on for the first time after this time).

The data communication device 7 includes a total counter memory A (maintenance contract management data storage means) and a total counter memory B for each of the connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5.
(E.g., maintenance contract management data history storage means) (e.g., secured in a non-volatile RAM (not shown)), and the total counter value (maintenance management Data) is written to the total counter memory A.

Therefore, the total counter memory A
Means every day (except, for example, when the image forming apparatus is not turned on all day, such as on holidays)
The maintenance contract management data of the previous day is rewritten.

The total counter stored in the total counter memory A at a predetermined date and time once a month (this is set by the central controller 6 and stored in the nonvolatile RAM in the data communication device 7). The value and the current date and time acquired from a not-shown real-time clock circuit are copied (stored) in the total counter memory B as a maintenance contract management data history.

The total counter memory B can store a plurality of maintenance contract management data histories for each image forming apparatus. That is, the maintenance contract management data history for the past several months can be stored. When storing more than the storable number of maintenance contract management data histories in the total counter memory B, the oldest maintenance contract management data history is overwritten.

The contents of the total counter memory B are sent from the data communication device 7 to the central control device 6, and the transfer (transmission) method includes the following two methods (a) and (b).

(A) The central control unit 6 manages the maintenance contract stored in the total counter memory B of the data communication device 7 after the date and time (date and time when the contents of the total counter memory A are copied to the total counter memory B). Go read the data history. (B) The data communication device 7 makes a self-call after the date and time and sends the maintenance contract management data history stored in the total counter memory B to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8. The date and time at which the self-originating call is made is also set by the central control device 6 and stored in the nonvolatile RAM in the data communication device 7.

At a predetermined date and time once a month (this is set by the central control device 6 and stored in the nonvolatile RAM in the data communication device 7),
The maintenance contract management data stored in the total counter memory A is transmitted to the central control unit 6 by the same transfer method as described above, and the transmitted maintenance contract management data and the transmission date and time (the current Together with the date and time) can be copied (stored) in the total counter memory B as the maintenance contract management data history.

Further, the data communication apparatus 7 prepares a plurality of memories in which the total memories A and B are combined for each of the connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. This is because various total counter values for black-and-white copying, application copying, color copying, and the like can be considered.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of text data exchanged between the central control device 6 and the data communication device 7. In FIG. 9, the serial number is a communication block number in one transmission, and the first block starts with “01”, and is incremented by 1 thereafter, and is set to “00” after “99”.

The ID code is stored in the data communication device 7 and the plurality of image forming devices 1 connected to the data communication device 7.
5 has the purpose of specifying one image forming apparatus. The identification code is obtained by adding the source and destination of text data to a code (processing code) indicating the type of communication purpose. The processing code is determined as shown in Table 1.

[0071]

[Table 1]

An information record is composed of an information code, the number of digits of a data part, and a data part, and is determined as shown in Table 2. A semicolon (;) separator is inserted between the ID code and the identification code, between the identification code and the information record, and between the information records.

[0073]

[Table 2]

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between the data communication device 7 and the personal I / F 18 of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. As described above, the device code is uniquely set for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 by the device code setting switch 30 (see FIG. 3), and the association with the ID code in FIG. At the time of installation connected to the apparatus 7, the data is read from the image forming apparatus, stored in the nonvolatile RAM in the data communication apparatus 7, and thereafter appropriately converted depending on the transmission direction of the text data.

The processing code is a code indicating the type of communication purpose as described above, and is obtained by deleting the source and destination of text data from the identification code of FIG. This is also appropriately added or deleted by the data communication device 7 depending on the transmission direction of the text data.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between the personal I / F 18 of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and the PPC controller 31 (see FIG. 3), and the data shown in FIG. Communication device 7 and personal I /
Header from text data exchanged with F18,
Device code and parity part are removed.

Next, the processing according to the present invention in the image forming apparatus management system will be described with reference to FIGS. Here, the control units of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2 function as a sheet number accumulating unit, a maintenance contract management data storage unit, and a maintenance contract management data transmission unit.

Also, the data communication device 7 shown in FIG.
It functions as a maintenance contract management data storage unit, a maintenance contract management data transmission unit, a maintenance contract management data history storage unit, a maintenance contract management data history transmission unit, and a rewrite request transmission unit. Further, the central control device 6 functions as the rewrite data transmitting means of the first aspect.

A paper output sensor (not shown) is connected to the input / output port 16 of the control unit of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2, and when the image forming operation is started, the image is formed. Each time the transfer paper is discharged outside the apparatus, the discharge is detected by a discharge sensor, and a discharge signal is output from the discharge sensor.

CPU 1 of control unit of each of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
When detecting the trailing end of a paper discharge signal input from the paper discharge sensor via the input / output port 16, each of the counters 1 counts the total counter value (integrates the number of image formations) and stores the count as the maintenance contract management data in the nonvolatile RAM 15. To memorize. That is, the total counter value (maintenance contract management data) stored in the nonvolatile RAM 15 is counted up (+
1) Yes.

Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 is connected to the data communication apparatus 7 for one day, as described in “Description of reading of total counter value (maintenance contract management data) of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5”. One selection is made at a fixed time (selecting is described in detail with reference to FIG. 7).
Is transmitted to the data communication device 7.

The data communication device 7 stores the maintenance contract management data received (read) from each of the image forming devices 1 to 5 by regular selection once a day in the total counter memory A. The management data is periodically transmitted to the central controller 6 at intervals longer than the transmission interval of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 (once a predetermined date and time in this embodiment). The transmission date and time are stored in the total counter memory B as the maintenance contract management data history (the maintenance contract management data history may be transmitted to the central control device 6). Of the reading of the total counter value ", the detailed description is omitted here.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a screen related to the maintenance contract management data in the user program mode displayed on the character display 83 of the operation display unit shown in FIG. The user program mode is a mode in which the customer can make special settings that are not used in the normal image forming operation and that are not frequently used. Switching from the normal image forming mode to the user program mode is performed as follows.

That is, the above-mentioned switching may be performed by inputting a predetermined password using the ten keys 71, the clear / stop key 72, the enter key 74, the preheating / mode clear key 76, etc. A dedicated maintenance contract management data transmission request key is provided on the operation display unit, or a similar key is provided on the image forming mode screen of the character display 83 shown in FIG. 5 and the keys are depressed. Is also good.

By switching to the user program mode, the display screen of the character display 83 is switched to a screen relating to maintenance contract management data as shown in FIG. 12, for example. Here, the customer (user) inputs the number of months before the maintenance contract management data requested by the ten key 71 and displays it in the requested month display area 85, and then presses the transmission request key 86. The image forming apparatus generates a maintenance contract management data history transmission request and waits for polling from the data communication device 7 (the polling is described in detail with reference to FIG. 8). The transmission request is transmitted to the data communication device 7.

FIG. 13 shows a case where each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 transmits a maintenance contract management data history transmission request from the PPC controller 31 shown in FIG.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of text data to F18, and the general theory has already been described with reference to FIG.

The first processing code 91 is a code indicating a manual call ("31" in this example), and an information code 93 constituting the first information record 92a following it
Is defined as a “maintenance contract management data history transmission request”, a unique (specific) code is defined for each manual call factor.

The number of digits 94 in the data part is the data part 95
(In this example, "0" indicating one digit)
1)), the data section 95 is data indicating how many months ago maintenance contract management data is requested (in this example, “01” requesting one month ago maintenance contract management data). The information records 92b to 92n may be omitted if unnecessary. In connection with this, although illustration of text data from the personal I / F 18 to the data communication device 7 is omitted, the same change may be made to FIG. 10 as in the description of FIG.

When the data communication device 7 receives the maintenance contract management data history transmission request, the data communication device 7
The maintenance contract management data history (only the maintenance contract management data may be included) including the maintenance contract management data of the requested month among the maintenance contract management data histories of the image forming apparatus stored in the image forming apparatus is described in FIG. By the selecting, the maintenance contract management data history transmission request is transmitted to the transmitted image forming apparatus, and a series of communication operations is completed.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of text data from the personal I / F 18 to the PPC controller 31 shown in FIG. 3 when each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 receives the maintenance contract management data history. Yes, the generality has already been described with reference to FIG.

The first processing code 101 is a code indicating data writing (in this example, “04”), and the information code 1 constituting the subsequent first information record 102a is
03 is defined as “maintenance contract management data history”, and a unique (specific) code is defined for each data writing factor.

The number of digits 104 in the data part is
A code indicating the number of digits of 05 (in this example, “0” indicating 8 digits)
8)), the data section 105 is “maintenance contract management data history”.
It is itself. The information records 102b to 102n are:
If unnecessary, it can be omitted. In connection with this, although illustration of text data from the data communication device 7 to the personal I / F 18 is omitted, similar changes may be made to FIG. 10 according to the description of FIG.

When each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 receives the maintenance contract management data history including the past maintenance contract management data requested from the data communication device 7, the
U11 stores the data in the nonvolatile RAM 15. From the above,
Past maintenance contract management data for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 (maintenance contract management data confirmed by the customer) and maintenance for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 held by the central control device 6 managing the maintenance contract Data can be unified with contract management data.

In each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5, when the display key 87 on the screen relating to the maintenance contract management data in the user program mode shown in FIG. 12 is pressed, the corresponding signal is displayed on the operation display section. CP via a control unit (not shown) and the serial communication control unit 17a
U11, and the CPU 11
The maintenance contract management data history including the past maintenance contract management data stored in the AM 15 is transferred to the control unit of the operation display unit via the serial communication control unit 17a, and FIG.
Is displayed in the maintenance contract management data history display area 88.

As a result, the customer can easily check the past maintenance contract management data of the image forming apparatus used by the customer, and the central control unit 6 can check the maintenance contract of the image forming apparatus used by the customer. It can be easily determined whether or not the management of the information is correctly performed.

Here, the maintenance contract management data history is displayed in the maintenance contract management data history display area 88 in FIG. 12, but may be displayed alone as a dedicated screen,
Alternatively, it can be printed out.

On the other hand, the data communication device 7 includes a maintenance contract management data initialization switch 41 connected to the control unit 41.
When a is turned on, the control unit 41 detects the ON state, and text data (renewal request of the maintenance contract management data history) requesting rewriting (initialization) of the “maintenance contract management data history” shown in FIG. ) Is transmitted to the central controller 6 via the communication line 8.

The maintenance contract management data initialization switch 41a connected to the control unit 41 is
5 is used to initialize the maintenance contract management data history of the image forming apparatus before replacement stored in the total counter memory B when any of the printers is replaced with a new machine. Cannot be used if replaced.

That is, when the data communication device 7 is replaced, the maintenance contract management data history of each of the image forming devices 1 to 5 stored in the total counter memory B in the data communication device 7 before replacement is exchanged. Since it is necessary to copy the data to the total counter memory B in the data communication device 7 later, the maintenance contract management data initialization switch 41a cannot be used. Therefore, a switch for the above copy (maintenance contract management data copy switch) is provided to the control unit 41.
Is desirably newly connected.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data from the data communication device 7 to the central control device 6 when the data communication device 7 transmits a maintenance contract management data history rewrite request to the central control device 6. The general theory has already been described with reference to FIG.

The first ID code 111 is a code for specifying the image forming apparatus, and the subsequent identification code 112 is for rewriting (initializing or copying) the maintenance contract management data history transmitted from the data communication device 7 to the central control device 6.
A code indicating the request (in this example, "210
3 "). The information records 113a to 113n may be omitted if unnecessary.

Upon receiving the request (command) for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history, the central control unit 6 responds to the request and rewrites the maintenance contract management data history data (the replacement of the image forming apparatus which is the maintenance contract management data. Initial value of total counter value or data communication device 7 before exchange
Is transmitted to the data communication device 7 to rewrite (initialize or copy) the maintenance contract management data history.

FIG. 16 shows a case where the central control unit 6 transmits data from the central control unit 6 to the data communication unit 7 when the maintenance contract management data history stored in the total counter memory B in the data communication unit 7 is rewritten. FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of text data, and the general theory has already been described with reference to FIG. 9.

The ID code 121 at the head is a code for specifying the image forming apparatus, and the subsequent identification code 122 indicates that the maintenance contract management data transmitted from the central control device 6 to the data communication device 7 is rewriting data. Code ("1204" in this example). Identification code 1
The information code 124 that configures the first information record 123a subsequent to 22 defines a unique (specific) code indicating which maintenance contract management data history rewrite (initialization or copy) request.

The data part digit number 125 is the data part 1
A code indicating the number of digits of 26 (in this example, “0” indicating 8 digits)
8)), the rewriting data of the maintenance contract management data history (the initial value of the total counter value of the replaced image forming apparatus, which is the maintenance contract management data, or each image forming apparatus of the data communication apparatus 7 before the replacement) (Corresponding to the maintenance contract management data histories 1 to 5)).
The information records 123b to 123n may be omitted if unnecessary.

The data communication device 7 stores the renewal data of the maintenance contract management data history received from the central control device 6 in the corresponding area of the total counter memory B (the storage area of the total counter value of the image forming apparatus before the replacement or the area before the replacement). By writing (overwriting) the maintenance contract management data history in the storage area of the maintenance contract management data history of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 of the data communication device 7, the maintenance contract management data history in the total counter memory B has the correct contents. Rewrite (correct).

As described above, even when one of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 or the data communication apparatus 7 is replaced,
Past maintenance contract management data for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 (maintenance contract management data confirmed by the customer) and maintenance for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 held by the central control device 6 managing the maintenance contract Data can be unified with contract management data.

Next, the processing of the image forming apparatus management system according to the second aspect of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 17. Since this processing is substantially the same as the above-described processing of the first aspect, Only different parts will be described. Here, the control units of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2 function as a sheet number accumulating unit, a maintenance contract management data storage unit, and a maintenance contract management data transmitting unit.

Also, the data communication device 7 shown in FIG.
It functions as a maintenance contract management data storage unit, a maintenance contract management data transmission unit, a maintenance contract management data history storage unit, a maintenance contract management data history transmission unit, and a rewrite request transmission unit. Further, the central control device 6 functions as the rewrite data transmitting means of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of the processing according to the second aspect of the present invention in the data communication apparatus 7. The data communication device 7 reads (receives) a total counter value (maintenance contract management data) from each of the image forming devices 1 to 5. Since the details of this part have been described in “Description of reading of total counter value (maintenance contract management data) of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5”, description thereof will be omitted here.

Next, the total counter value read this time from each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and the total counter of the latest history data (maintenance contract management data history) stored in the total counter memory B in the data communication device 7. The value (maintenance contract management data) is compared, and it is checked whether or not there is inconsistency, that is, whether or not the following condition (A) or (B) is satisfied.

(A) Total counter value read this time <total counter value of latest history data (B) Difference between total counter value read this time and total counter value of latest history data> Upper limit of difference The upper limit may be a fixed value or a value obtained by calculation from the difference between the current date and time and the date and time when the previous history was taken.

When the condition (A) or (B) is satisfied (there is a mismatch between the two), the text data requesting rewriting of the “maintenance contract management data history” is transmitted via the communication line 8. By transmitting the rewritten data of the maintenance contract management data history returned from the central control device 6 to the central control device 6 and writing (overwriting) it in the corresponding area of the total counter memory B, Rewrite (correct) the maintenance contract management data history to the correct contents. Since this part is the same as the processing according to the first aspect of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted.

Next, the processing according to the third aspect of the image forming apparatus management system will be described with reference to FIG. 18. This processing is substantially the same as the processing according to the first aspect of the present invention. Only different parts will be described. Here, the control units of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 shown in FIG. 2 function as a sheet number accumulating unit, a maintenance contract management data storage unit, and a maintenance contract management data transmitting unit.

Further, the data communication device 7 shown in FIG.
The function as a maintenance contract management data storage unit, a maintenance contract management data transmission unit, a maintenance contract management data history storage unit, a maintenance contract management data history transmission unit, and a rewrite request transmission unit according to claim 3 is achieved. Further, the central control device 6 functions as a rewrite data transmitting means according to the third aspect.

FIG. 18 is a flow chart showing an example of processing according to the third aspect of the present invention in the data communication apparatus 7. The data communication device 7 reads (receives) a total counter value (maintenance contract management data) from each of the image forming devices 1 to 5. Since the details of this part have been described in “Description of reading of total counter value (maintenance contract management data) of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5”, description thereof will be omitted here.

Next, the current date and time obtained from the real-time clock circuit in the control unit 41 and the transmission date and time of the latest history data (maintenance contract management data history) stored in the total counter memory B are compared. Shown in (C)
Or, it is checked whether the condition of (D) is satisfied.

(C) Current date and time <Date and time of transmission of latest history data (D) Difference between current date and time and date and time of transmission of latest history data> Upper limit of time difference However, even if the upper limit of the time difference is It may be a value obtained by calculation from the difference between the read total counter value and the total counter value of the latest history data.

When the condition (C) or (D) is satisfied (when the current date and time is earlier than the transmission date and time of the latest history data, or when the interval between each date and time is longer than a certain period) The text data requesting rewriting of the "maintenance contract management data history" is transmitted to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8, and the rewritten data of the maintenance contract management data history returned from the central control device 6 in response thereto. Is received and written into the total counter memory B in which the maintenance contract management data history is stored, thereby rewriting the maintenance contract management data history to correct contents.

Since this part is almost the same as the processing according to the first aspect of the present invention, a detailed description thereof will be omitted, but if the condition (C) or (D) is satisfied, Since an error occurs in the current date and time output from the real-time clock circuit, the following processing may be actually performed.

That is, text data (transmission date and time correction request) requesting correction of the transmission date and time of the latest history data as text data requesting rewriting of “maintenance contract management data history” is transmitted to the central control device 6. On the other hand, the time information (the date and time when the maintenance contract management data, which is the total counter value of the latest history data, received by the central control device 6) returned from the central control device 6 is received. By writing (overwriting) the corresponding area of B (the storage area for the transmission date and time of the latest history data), if the transmission date and time of the latest history data is incorrect, it is rewritten to the correct date and time.

Further, a code for requesting correction of the current date and time is added to the text data, or text data (current date and time correction request) requesting the correction is transmitted to the central control device 6, and the Central controller 6
By receiving the time information (correction data) returned from, the current date and time output from the real-time clock circuit in the control unit 41 can also be corrected.

[0123]

As described above, according to the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention, the data communication apparatus
While receiving and storing the maintenance contract management data (integrated number of image formations) transmitted periodically from the image forming apparatus, and transmitting it to the central control apparatus at regular intervals longer than the transmission interval of the image forming apparatus, The maintenance contract management data and the transmission date and time are stored together as a maintenance contract management data history,
In addition to transmitting the maintenance contract management data history to the image forming apparatus in response to a request from the image forming apparatus, a rewrite request of the stored maintenance contract management data history is transmitted to the central control apparatus to perform maintenance from the central control apparatus. By transmitting the rewriting data of the contract management data history, the stored maintenance contract management data history can be rewritten.
The operation at the time of replacing the image forming apparatus or the data communication apparatus can be reduced.

Further, according to the second and third aspects of the present invention,
In addition to the same effects as described above, the following effects can be obtained. According to the invention of claim 2, the data communication device includes:
The stored maintenance contract management data history is compared with the maintenance contract management data received from the image forming apparatus. If there is an inconsistency between the two, a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history is transmitted to the central control device, and By transmitting rewrite data of the maintenance contract management data history from the control device, the stored contents of the maintenance contract management data history can be automatically corrected to correct contents.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, the data communication device compares the transmission date and time of the stored maintenance contract management data history with the current date and time, and when the data communication device is free for a certain period or more, In the case of before the transmission date and time, the stored maintenance contract management data history rewrite request is transmitted to the central control device, and the central control device transmits the maintenance contract management data history rewrite data, whereby the stored maintenance contract management data history rewrite request is transmitted. The contents of the data history can be automatically corrected to the correct contents.

Therefore, even if an error occurs in the current date and time output from the clock means of the data communication device and the content of the stored maintenance contract management data history is erroneously updated, the content is corrected to the correct content thereafter. Since the correction is corrected, it is possible to prevent the contents of the maintenance contract management data history from being erroneously displayed on the operation display unit of the image forming apparatus.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control unit of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a personal I / F 18 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a layout diagram illustrating a configuration example of an operation display unit of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming mode screen displayed on a character display 83 of the operation display unit shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing an example of a data communication device 7 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a selecting operation in the data communication device 7 of FIG. 6;

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of the polling operation.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between the central control device 6 and the data communication device 7 in FIG.

FIG. 10 shows a data communication device 7 and image forming devices 1 to
5 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged with a personal I / F 18 of FIG. 5 (FIG. 3).

FIG. 11 shows a personal I / O of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5;
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between F18 and a PPC controller 31 (FIG. 3).

12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a screen related to maintenance contract management data in a user program mode displayed on a character display 83 of the operation display unit illustrated in FIG. 4;

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a P when the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 of FIG. 1 transmit a maintenance contract management data history transmission request to the central control device 6;
From the PC controller 31 (FIG. 3) to the personal I / F1
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of text data to No. 8;

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a configuration of the personal I / F 18 to P when the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 receive the maintenance contract management data history.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of text data to a PC controller 31.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data from the data communication device 7 to the central control device 6 when the data communication device 7 transmits a maintenance contract management data history rewrite request to the central control device 6;

FIG. 16 shows a case where the central control unit 6 rewrites the maintenance contract management data history stored in the total counter memory B in the data communication unit 7, and the text data from the central control unit 6 to the data communication unit 7. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the first embodiment.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of processing according to the invention of claim 2 in the data communication device 7 shown in FIG. 6;

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an example of a process according to the invention of claim 3;

[Description of Signs] 1 to 5: Image forming apparatus 6: Central control apparatus 7: Data communication apparatus 8: Communication line 11, 21 / CPU 13: ROM 14: RAM 15: Non-volatile RAM 17a, 17b, 17c: Serial communication Control unit 18: Personal I / F 31: PPC controller 41: Control unit 41a: Maintenance contract management data initialization switch 42: Auto dialer unit 43: Line control unit

Claims (3)

[Claims] An image forming apparatus such as a copying apparatus and a central control device are connected via a data communication device and a communication line;
In the image forming apparatus management system, wherein the central control device remotely manages the image forming apparatus via the communication line and the data communication apparatus, the image forming apparatus includes: Means for accumulating the number of images, maintenance contract management data storage means for storing the number of images formed by the means as maintenance contract management data, and periodically storing the maintenance contract management data stored in the means to the data communication device. A maintenance contract management data transmitting unit for transmitting; a maintenance contract management data storage unit for storing the maintenance contract management data received from the image forming apparatus in the data communication device; and a maintenance contract management data stored in the unit. A maintenance contract management data transmitting means for periodically transmitting to the central control device at intervals longer than the transmission interval of the image forming apparatus;
A maintenance contract management data history storage unit for storing the maintenance contract management data transmitted by the means together with the transmission date and time as a maintenance contract management data history, and the maintenance contract management data A maintenance contract management data history transmission unit for transmitting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the data history storage unit to the image forming apparatus; and a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage unit. Rewriting request transmitting means for transmitting the rewriting data of the maintenance contract management data history to the data communication device in response to the rewriting request from the data communication device. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: rewriting data transmitting means for transmitting. 2. The rewrite request transmitting unit compares the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage unit with the maintenance contract management data received from the image forming apparatus, and the two are inconsistent. 2. The image forming apparatus management according to claim 1, further comprising: means for transmitting a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history stored in said maintenance contract management data history storage means to said central control device when there is an error. system. 3. The rewrite request transmitting unit compares the transmission date and time of the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage unit with the current date and time, and when the rewriting request transmission unit is free for a certain period or more, Means for transmitting, to the central control unit, a request for rewriting the maintenance contract management data history stored in the maintenance contract management data history storage means when a current date and time is before the transmission date and time. Item 2. The image forming apparatus management system according to Item 1.