JP2001345980A - Image forming device management system, image forming device used for the same, and its power supply control method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To always communicate with a central managing device even if an image forming device having an energy saving function functions as a data communication device. SOLUTION: A copying machine comprises a device main body 10, a communication device 20, and a power source part and when an energy-saving key on an operation display part is pressed (a specific switch is operated) or when the device main body 10 is not used continuously for a certain time, the CPU 11 of the device main body 10 enters energy saving mode to stop supplying the electric power to the device main body 10 (providing that the communication part 20 is continuously supplied with the electric power). Further, PPC internal information (counter information and log information) to be reported to the central managing device can be stored in the RAM of the communication part 20 before the power supply to the device main body 10 is stopped.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public line by a central management apparatus, an image forming apparatus used therefor, and a power supply control method. .

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As an image forming apparatus management system, data communication is performed between image forming apparatuses (copiers, facsimile apparatuses, printers, and the like, which are premised on remote management) installed in offices of an unspecified number of customers (users). It is generally known that an apparatus and a public line can be connected to a central management apparatus installed in a service center (a base for sales, services, etc.).

In such an image forming apparatus management system, the image forming apparatus accumulates the number of image formed sheets by a counter in accordance with an image forming operation, and displays information (hereinafter also referred to as "counter information") indicating the accumulated image formed sheet number. The data communication device transmits the internal information of the image forming apparatus, such as information indicating the ROM version and log information such as the fixing temperature of the fixing device, to the central management device by a self-call or a request from the central management device. I have.

[0004]

However, in such a conventional image forming apparatus management system, since the central management apparatus remotely manages the image forming apparatus via a public line, communication with the image forming apparatus is performed. It is necessary to install a data communication device together with the image forming device in a customer's office or the like, but the data communication device (also referred to as a communication adapter) is not used by a user in normal business, so the image forming device is not used. It has been very disturbing due to the installation space or layout of each OA device including the device.

Therefore, it is conceivable to provide the image forming apparatus with a function as a data communication apparatus. However, in recent image forming apparatuses, when an unused state continues for a predetermined time or a predetermined switch is operated. Sometimes, for the purpose of energy saving (hereinafter referred to as "energy saving"), there is an energy saving function that stops the power supply to the entire device or the power consuming part (fixing device etc.). When the forming device has a function as a data communication device, communication with the central management device cannot be performed while the power supply is stopped, and internal information such as counter information and log information is transmitted to the central device. There is a problem that it cannot be transmitted to the management device.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems. Even when an image forming apparatus having an energy saving function used in an image forming apparatus management system has a function as a data communication apparatus, It is an object of the present invention to enable communication with a central management device to be always executed and to allow internal information such as counter information and log information to be transmitted to the central management device at any time.

[0007]

In order to achieve the above object, the present invention provides an image forming apparatus management system, an image forming apparatus used therefor, and a power supply control method described below.

An image forming apparatus management system according to a first aspect of the present invention is a business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public line by a central management apparatus. It is characterized by having done.

That is, the image forming apparatus is supplied with power to the apparatus main body including a control section for controlling the apparatus in general, a communication section communicating with the central management apparatus via a public line, and both the apparatus main body and the communication section. The control unit of the device main body normally supplies power to both the device main body and the communication unit from the power supply unit, and when an unused state of the device main body continues for a predetermined time or a predetermined switch is turned on. A power supply control means for stopping power supply to the apparatus main body when operated is provided.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the first aspect, the power supply unit of the image forming apparatus transmits a predetermined direct current to the apparatus main body based on an alternating current from an alternating current power supply. A first DC power supply for supplying power and a second DC power supply for supplying a predetermined DC power to the communication unit based on AC from the AC power supply, and an electromagnetic reset is provided between the AC power supply and the first DC power supply. Insert the power switch with function, and feed the power supply control means of the control unit of the device main body,
The power supply switch with the electromagnetic reset function is turned off when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management system according to the first aspect, wherein the power supply unit of the image forming apparatus transmits a predetermined direct current to the apparatus main body based on an alternating current from an alternating current power supply. A first direct-current power supply for supplying power, and a second direct-current power supply for supplying a predetermined direct current to the communication unit based on alternating current from the alternating-current power source, and at least the first direct-current power supply includes a switching regulator;
The power supply control means of the control unit of the apparatus main body is a means for stopping the oscillation of the switching regulator of the first DC power supply when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. Things.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein a memory such as a RAM is provided in a communication unit of the image forming apparatus. Before stopping the power supply to the device body by at least the power supply control means,
A means is provided for storing internal information of the apparatus main body to be notified to the central management apparatus in a memory of the communication unit.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus management system according to the fourth aspect, wherein a microcomputer is used as a control unit of the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus, and a microcomputer and the microcomputer are used as a communication unit. And a dual port RA respectively connected to a microcomputer bus of a control unit of the apparatus main body.
M, respectively, and the microcomputer of the control unit of the device main body stores the internal information of the device main body to be notified to the central management device in the dual port RAM of the communication unit, and communicates the information stored in the dual port RAM. A part of the microcomputer stores the information in a memory.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management system according to the fifth aspect, wherein the microcomputer of the control section of the apparatus main body updates internal information of the apparatus main body at predetermined time intervals. This is stored in the dual port RAM of the communication unit.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the fifth aspect, the microcomputer of the control unit of the apparatus main body changes internal information of the apparatus main body to the information. Sometimes, it is stored in the dual port RAM of the communication unit.

An image forming apparatus management system according to an eighth aspect of the present invention is a business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public line by a central management apparatus. It is characterized by having done.

That is, the image forming apparatus is provided with an apparatus body including a control section for controlling the apparatus in general, a communication section for communicating with the central management apparatus via a public line, and power supply to both the apparatus body and the communication section. And a power supply for supplying power to
Normally, the control unit of the apparatus main body is supplied with power from the power supply unit to both the apparatus main body and the communication unit, and when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated, the communication unit and A first power supply control unit for stopping power supply to a power consuming portion excluding a control unit of the device main body, and a communication unit receiving an access request to the device main body via a public line from a central management device; When the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped, the power supply stop is temporarily released to allow the central management device to access the device main body. After the access is completed, the power consumption is stopped again. And second power supply control means for stopping power supply to a portion having a large amount.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the eighth aspect, the power supply unit of the image forming apparatus is connected to the apparatus main body and the communication unit based on an AC from an AC power supply. A DC power supply for supplying a predetermined DC power, a relay is interposed between the power supply unit and the power consuming portion, and the first power supply control means of the control unit of the apparatus main body is changed to an unused state of the apparatus main body. When a predetermined time is continued or when a predetermined switch is operated,
Means for turning off the relay, the second power supply control means of the control unit of the device body, when the communication unit receives a request to access the device body from the central management device via a public line,
When the relay is turned off, the relay is turned on to enable access to the apparatus main body by the central management device, and after the access is completed, the relay is turned off again. .

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
An image forming apparatus that is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line, and includes an apparatus main body including a control unit that controls the image forming apparatus overall, and a communication unit that communicates with the central management apparatus via a public line. And a power supply unit for supplying power to both the device main body and the communication unit. Power supply control means is provided for stopping power supply to the apparatus main body when the time has continued or when a predetermined switch is operated.

An image forming apparatus according to the invention of claim 11 is
The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the power supply unit includes a first DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on the AC from the AC power supply, and a predetermined DC power supply to the communication unit based on the AC from the AC power supply. A second DC power supply that supplies DC power, a power switch with an electromagnetic reset function is interposed between the AC power supply and the first DC power supply, and a power supply control unit of a control unit of the apparatus main body is connected to the power supply control unit of the apparatus main body. When the unused state continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated,
This is a means for turning off a power switch with an electromagnetic reset function.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the power supply unit includes a first DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on the AC from the AC power supply, and a predetermined DC power supply to the communication unit based on the AC from the AC power supply. A second DC power supply for supplying DC power, at least the first DC power supply is provided with a switching regulator, and the power supply control means of the control unit of the apparatus main body is used when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time. Or means for stopping oscillation of the switching regulator of the first DC power supply when a predetermined switch is operated.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
The image forming apparatus according to claim 10,
A communication unit of the image forming apparatus is provided with a memory such as a RAM, and a control unit of the apparatus main body has at least a power supply control unit to stop internal power supply to the apparatus main body and to notify the central management apparatus of internal information of the apparatus main body to be notified. Is stored in the memory of the communication unit.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein a microcomputer is provided in a control unit of the apparatus main body, a microcomputer is provided in a communication unit, and a dual port RAM is connected to a bus of the microcomputer and the microcomputer of the control unit. The microcomputer of the unit stores the internal information of the apparatus body to be notified to the central management device in the dual port RAM of the communication unit, and stores the information stored in the dual port RAM in the memory of the communication unit. It was made.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
In the image forming apparatus according to the fourteenth aspect, the microcomputer of the control unit of the apparatus main body stores the internal information of the apparatus main body in the dual port RAM of the communication unit at every preset time.

An image forming apparatus according to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention
In the image forming apparatus of the present invention, the microcomputer of the control section of the apparatus main body stores the internal information of the apparatus main body in the dual port RAM of the communication section when the information changes.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus comprising:
An image forming apparatus which is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line, including an apparatus main body including a control unit which controls the apparatus in general, and a communication unit which communicates with the central management apparatus via a public line. , And a power supply unit that supplies power to both the device main body and the communication unit.
When the power supply unit supplies power to both the main unit and the communication unit, and the unused state of the main unit continues for a predetermined time, or when a predetermined switch is operated, the power consumption excluding the communication unit and the control unit of the main unit. First power supply control means for stopping power supply to a part having a large power consumption, and power supply to a part having a large power consumption when a communication unit receives an access request to the apparatus main body from a central management device via a public line. If the power supply has been stopped, the suspension of the power supply is temporarily released to enable the central management apparatus to access the apparatus main body, and after the access is completed, the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped again. Second power supply control means is provided.

An image forming apparatus according to claim 18 is
18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the power supply unit is a DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to each of the apparatus main body and the communication unit based on the AC from the AC power supply. A relay is interposed therebetween, and the first power supply control means of the control unit of the apparatus main body is turned off when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. As means, the second power supply control means of the control unit of the apparatus main body, when the apparatus main body receives an access request from the central management device via a public line, when the relay is turned off, the relay When turned on, the central management unit can access the main unit, and after the access is completed, the relay is turned off again.

The power supply control method according to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention
A power supply control method for controlling power supply from a power supply unit in an image forming apparatus remotely managed via a public line by a central management device. When the unused state continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated, internal information of the device to be notified to the central management device is stored in an internal memory of a communication unit that communicates with the central management device via a public line. After the storage, the power supply to each unit except the communication unit is stopped.

A power supply control method according to a twentieth aspect of the present invention
A power supply control method for controlling power supply from a power supply unit in an image forming apparatus remotely managed via a public line by a central management device. When the unused state continues for a predetermined time, or when a predetermined switch is operated, the power supply to the power-consuming portion excluding the communication unit and the control unit communicating with the central management unit via the public line is stopped. When the communication unit receives an access request from the central management device via the public line, if the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped, the power supply stop is temporarily released and the central management device The access is made possible, and after the access is completed, the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped again.

[0030]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system embodying the present invention.

The image forming apparatus management system includes a copying machine (PPC) 1 and a facsimile machine (FAX) 2 installed in a customer's office or the like, and a center terminal (client computer) 3 installed in a service center.
A facsimile machine 2 and a modem 4 of the central control device 5 via a public line network (including an exchange) 6 (but a mechanical connection). The central management unit 5 can remotely control the copying apparatus 1 and the facsimile apparatus 2 via the public line network 6.

FIG. 2 shows an example in which the facsimile apparatus 2 is connected to the public line network 6 via the copying apparatus 1, but the facsimile apparatus 2 is directly connected to the public line network 6 without passing through the copying apparatus 1. Can also. Further, in this image forming apparatus management system, only the copying apparatus 1 and the facsimile apparatus 2 are shown as image forming apparatuses connected to the central management apparatus 5 via the public line network 6, but in reality, many Image forming apparatuses are connected.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control system of the copying apparatus 1. The copying apparatus 1 includes an apparatus main body 10 including a control section for controlling the entire apparatus in its entirety, a communication section (remote diagnosis communication section) 20 for communicating with the center terminal 3 of the central management apparatus 5 via the public network 6. And a power supply unit (not shown) that supplies power to both the apparatus main body 10 and the communication unit 20 (each unit of the entire apparatus).

The control unit of the apparatus main body 10 includes a CPU 11 constituting a microcomputer, a real-time clock circuit 12, a ROM 13, a RAM 14, a nonvolatile RAM 1
5, input / output port 16 and serial communication unit 17
a, 17b, and 17c, which are interconnected by a main bus 18 including an address bus, a control bus, and a data bus.

The CPU 11 is a central processing unit that controls the entire control unit of the apparatus main body 10 in accordance with a control program stored in the ROM 13. Real-time clock circuit 1
Numeral 2 generates time information, and the CPU 11 can know the current time by reading the time information.

The ROM 13 is a fixed memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 11. The RAM 14 is a temporary storage memory used as a work memory or the like used when the CPU 11 performs data processing.

The nonvolatile RAM 15 stores information indicating the contents of a mode instruction from an operation display unit or the like described later, an ID code (identification information) for identifying the copying apparatus 1, a telephone number of the central management apparatus 5, and a successful line connection. Internal information of the apparatus main body 10 including information for communicating with the central management apparatus 5 such as the number of recalls (the number of retries), the number of recalls, and the like, counter information and log information (hereinafter, “PPC internal information”)
(Also referred to as "memory"), and is backed up by a battery.

The input / output port 16 is connected to output loads such as a motor, a solenoid, and a clutch in the apparatus main body 10 and sensors and switches. Serial communication unit 17a
Exchanges signals with the operation display unit.

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

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the communication section 20 of FIG. The communication unit 20 has a dual port RA
M (hereinafter abbreviated as "DPRAM") 21, a CPU 22 constituting a microcomputer, a RAM 23, and an RO
M24, real-time clock circuit (hereinafter, also referred to as "RTC") 25, and network controller (hereinafter, referred to as "NCU")
26, and a modem 27, which are interconnected by a dedicated bus 28 comprising an address bus, a control bus, and a data bus.

The dual port RAM 21 includes a communication unit 20
Are connected to a dedicated bus 28 (a microcomputer bus including the CPU 22 and the like) and a main bus 18 (a microcomputer bus including the CPU 11 and the like) of the control unit of the apparatus body 10, respectively.
11 is a data memory that is readable and writable from both sides, and is used for exchanging data between the control unit of the apparatus main body 10 and the communication unit 20. The CPU 22 is a central processing unit that controls the entire communication unit 20 according to a control program stored in the ROM 24.

For example, the NCU 26 controls transmission and reception of data to and from the central management unit 5 via the line (public line) of the NCU 26 and the public line network 6, and receives various reports from the device body 10 so that the NCU 26 uses the line of the public line network 6. A call is made to the central management unit 5 via the telephone line, a line of the public line network 6 is connected to the modem 27 side, or a general telephone (TEL) (not shown) or a facsimile machine (FA) shown in FIG.
X) Control of switching to connect to the 2 side is performed.

The RAM 23 is a temporary storage memory used as a work memory used when the CPU 22 performs data processing. The ROM 24 is a fixed memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 22.

The RTC 25 generates time information, and the CPU 22 can read the information to know the current time. The NCU 26 connects the communication unit 20 to a line of the public line network 6 and has an automatic transmission / reception function. The modem 27 modulates and demodulates data to be transmitted and received.

Here, the CPU 1 of the control section of the apparatus body 10
1 transmits the information for communicating with the central management device 5 in the PPC internal information stored in the non-volatile RAM 15 to the dual port of the communication unit 20 at a predetermined timing such as when power is turned on by turning on a power switch to be described later. The information stored in the RAM 21 is stored in the RAM 23 by the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20.
Note that the communication unit 20 may include a nonvolatile RAM storing information for communicating with the central management device 5.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the NCU 26. The NCU 26 includes a protection circuit 31, a loop current detection circuit 32, a ringing detection circuit 33, a line switching circuit 34, a loop forming circuit 35, and the like. The protection circuit 31 is a circuit for protecting the device from noise from the line of the public network 6.

The loop current detecting circuit 32 detects a current flowing in the DC loop formed by the loop forming circuit 35. The ringing detection circuit 33 detects ringing from a line of the public line network 6.

The line switching circuit 34 switches between connecting the line of the public line network 6 to the modem 27 shown in FIG. 3 or connecting to the external telephone (TEL) or facsimile (FAX) 2 side. It is what you do. The loop forming circuit 35 forms a DC loop when off-hook and grasps the line of the public line network 6 (the lines L1 and L2 are DC-closed), and transmits and receives a modem signal to and from the line.

FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram showing a configuration example of the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1. This power supply unit is an AC power supply (AC power supply)
Filter 41 that cuts AC noise from
A first direct current for supplying a predetermined direct current to each unit (power supply system A) of the apparatus main body 10 based on the alternating current from the noise filter 41.
, And a second DC power supply 43 that supplies a predetermined DC to each unit (power supply system B) of the communication unit 20 based on the AC from the noise filter 41.

A power switch 44 having an electromagnetic reset function (hereinafter simply referred to as “power SW”) is interposed between the noise filter 41 on the AC power supply side and the first DC power supply 42. The power switch 44 is a switch for self-cutoff by a combination of a permanent magnet, an electromagnet and a spring, and is generally a Matsushita AJ8R series or the like.

The power switch 44 is turned off by a SW control signal output from the CPU 11 of the control section of the apparatus main body 10, and stops power supply to each section (power supply system A) of the apparatus main body 10. FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing another example of the configuration of the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1, and portions corresponding to those in FIG.

This power supply section has substantially the same configuration as that of FIG. 5, but at least the first DC power supply 42 has a switching regulator 42a. Further, the noise filter 41 on the AC power supply side and the first and second DC power supplies 42 and 4
3, a normal power switch (hereinafter simply referred to as “power S
W ”) 51 is inserted.

In this power supply section, the first DC power supply 42
The oscillation of the switching regulator 42a is controlled by a power control signal output from the CPU 11, and a predetermined alternating current is supplied to each unit (power system A) of the apparatus main body 10. Therefore, by stopping the oscillation of the switching regulator 42a, the device body 1
0 (power supply system A) can be stopped.

FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing still another example of the configuration of the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1. Parts corresponding to those in FIGS. 5 and 6 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The power supply unit includes a noise filter 41 similar to that shown in FIG.
1 and the communication unit 20 based on the AC from
DC power supply (DC power supply) 6 for supplying a predetermined direct current to both
1.

The noise filter 41 and the DC power supply 61
, A power switch 51 is interposed. Further, the parts (eg, the operation display unit, the document feeding unit,
A relay 62 is interposed between the transfer paper post-processing unit and the fixing unit.

Therefore, power is constantly supplied to the control unit and the communication unit 20 of the apparatus main body 10. In addition, by turning off the relay 62 by a control signal output from the CPU 11 of the control unit of the apparatus main body 10, power supply to a portion of the apparatus main body 10 that consumes a large amount of power can be stopped.

FIG. 8 is a layout diagram showing a configuration example of the operation display unit of the copying apparatus 1. Like the general control unit (for example, the control unit of the apparatus main body 10 shown in FIG. 1), the operation display unit includes a ROM storing a control program, a CPU executing various controls by the control program, and temporarily storing data. 1 and a non-volatile RAM backed up by a battery, a serial communication unit, and an input / output port.
Data is exchanged with a, but details thereof 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, an energy saving / 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, contrast volume 8 for display
2, and a character display 83.

A ten key 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 copying operation. The print key 73 is a key for starting execution of an image forming (copying) operation.

The enter key 74 is a key for confirming numerical values and designations such as the zoom magnification and the number of binding margin dimensions. The interrupt key 75 is a key used when interrupting a copy and copying another original.

Energy saving (preheating) / mode clear key 76
Cancels the contents of all the set image forming modes, shifts to the energy saving mode, and stops the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 (or the power consuming portion excluding the communication unit 20 and the control unit of the apparatus main body). Key.

The energy saving / mode clear key 76 functions as an energy saving key when pressed continuously for a predetermined period (for example, one second or longer), and can shift to an energy saving mode. The mode clear key and the energy saving key may be provided separately. Then, it is possible to shift to the energy saving mode without pressing the energy saving key continuously for a predetermined period.

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).
A substantially transparent sheet-like matrix touch panel is overlapped, and the power switch 44 shown in FIG. 5 or the power switch shown in FIGS.
Power is supplied by turning on 51, and for example, an image forming mode (copy mode) screen as shown in FIG. 9 can be displayed.

Here, by pressing (touching) a key (display section) on the image forming mode screen, the paper size (paper feed stage), image density (copy density), and scaling (actual magnification, reduction, Various image forming modes related to image forming operations, such as enlargement, paper specification scaling, zoom scaling, size scaling), double-sided mode, binding margin mode, sort mode, etc., can be arbitrarily selected. Switches to black and white inverted display.

While the control system of the copying apparatus 1 has been described above, other image forming apparatuses including the facsimile apparatus 2
Since similar control systems are provided, their illustration and description are omitted.

Here, in this example of the image forming apparatus management system, at least the copying apparatus 1 stores control programs corresponding to various functions (means) according to the present invention in the apparatus main body 10 and the ROMs 13 and 24 of the communication section 20. The CPU 11 and 22 operate according to their control programs, and various functions according to the present invention can be realized by using the above-described power supply unit.

Next, a schematic function of the image forming apparatus management system will be described. As described above, a large number of image forming apparatuses including the copying apparatus 1 are connected to the central management apparatus 5 via the public line network 6, but for the sake of simplicity, the copying apparatus 1 will be described here. It is assumed that only one is connected.

The functions of the image forming apparatus management system are roughly classified into the following two types (1) and (2). (1) Communication control from copying apparatus 1 to central management apparatus 5 (2) Communication control from central management apparatus 5 to copying apparatus 1

The communication control from the copying apparatus 1 to the central management apparatus 5 in (1) includes, for example, the following (a) to (c). (A) In the copying apparatus 1, when an abnormality (failure) in which the image forming operation (copy operation) becomes impossible in the apparatus main body 10 occurs, the CPU 11 of the control unit of the apparatus main body 10 transmits abnormality information indicating the occurrence. Stored in the DPRAM 21 and the DPRAM
The CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 stores the abnormal information stored in the RAM 21 in the abnormal area of the RAM 23, and the modem 27, the NCU
26, the central management unit 5 is notified via the public network 6.

(B) In the copying apparatus 1, the CPU 11 of the control section of the apparatus main body 10 controls the nonvolatile RA in accordance with the image forming operation.
The number of image formations in M15 is integrated, and counter information indicating the integrated number of image formations is stored in the DPRAM 21 of the communication unit 20 at a predetermined timing (for example, at every preset time or when the counter information changes). , That D
The CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 stores the counter information stored in the PRAM 21 in the counter area of the RAM 23 (rewrites the counter information into the latest counter information), and at a predetermined timing (the integrated image formation number indicated by the counter information becomes the predetermined number). When the time reaches the predetermined time or when a preset time is reached, the counter information in the counter area of the RAM 23 is read, and the modem 27 and the NCU 26 use the public network 6.
To the central management device 5 via the.

(C) In the copying apparatus 1, the CPU 11 of the control section of the apparatus main body 10 controls the version of the ROM 13, the control voltage and current of each section (each unit) constituting the apparatus main body 10, and the like.
Log information such as resistance, temperature, timing, and the like (for example, the surface temperature and current of the fixing roller of the fixing unit) at predetermined timing (for example, at every preset time or when there is a change in the log information) DPRAM 21 of the communication unit 20 The log information stored in the DPRAM 21 is stored in the log area of the RAM 23 by the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 (rewritten with the latest log information), and at a predetermined timing (for example, when the version of the ROM 13 changes, The log information in the log area of the RAM 23 is read (when the surface temperature of the
U26 is notified to the central management device 5 via the public line network 6.

The communication control from the central management apparatus 5 to the copying apparatus 1 in (2) includes, for example, the following (a) to (c). (A) Reading and resetting of PPC internal information (counter information, log information, etc.) of the copying apparatus 1 (b) Adjustment values of control voltage, current, resistance, timing, etc. of each unit constituting the apparatus main body 10 of the copying apparatus 1 Setting (tuning) and reading (c) Return of communication result from copying machine 1 to central management device 5 by communication control of (1)

Next, the processing operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. For convenience of explanation, it is assumed that a mode clear key and an energy saving key are separately provided in the operation display unit instead of the energy saving / mode clear key 76. 10 to 14 show different embodiments of the processing according to the present invention (corresponding to each claim).
It is a flowchart which shows. In each of these figures,
Steps are abbreviated as “S”.

[First Embodiment: FIG. 10] FIG. 10 shows a first embodiment (corresponding to claims 1 to 3 and 10 to 12).
9 is a flowchart showing power supply control by the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 in the case of FIG. CPU 11 of device body 10
Starts the process shown in FIG. 10 periodically, determines in step 1 whether the energy saving key is pressed (operates a predetermined switch), and if the energy saving key is pressed, in step 2 The mode is shifted to the mode, and the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 is stopped.

Here, when the power supply unit of the copying machine 1 is configured as shown in FIG. 5, when the energy saving key is pressed, the power supply SW 44 is turned off by the SW control signal, and each unit of the apparatus main body 10 is turned off. The power supply to (power supply system A) is stopped. Alternatively, when the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1 is configured as shown in FIG. 6, the oscillation of the switching regulator 42a of the DC power supply 42 is stopped by the power supply control signal, and the power supply unit A supplies power to the respective units (power supply system A) of the apparatus body 10. To stop power supply.

The unused time of the apparatus body 10 is measured by using the real-time clock circuit 12, and when the measured time continues for a predetermined time, the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode to stop the power supply to the apparatus body 10. It can also be done.

As described above, when the energy saving key is pressed (a predetermined switch is operated), or when the apparatus main body 10 is not used for a predetermined time, the CP of the apparatus main body 10 is
U11 shifts to the energy saving mode and stops the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 (however, the power supply to the communication unit 20 is continued), so that the communication with the central management apparatus 5 can be executed even in the energy saving mode. In other words, while realizing energy saving, communication with the central management device 5 can be always performed, and P information such as counter information and log information of the device main body 10 can be used.
The PC internal information can be transmitted to the central management device 5 at any time.

Also, a power switch 44 with an electromagnetic reset function
If the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 is stopped using the power supply, the power supply can be reliably stopped. Alternatively, the switching regulator 42a of the DC power supply 42
If the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 is stopped by stopping the oscillation of the power supply, it is not necessary to use an expensive power switch with an electromagnetic reset function, and the power supply can be reliably stopped at low cost.

[Second Embodiment: FIG. 11] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the power supply control by the CPU 11 of the apparatus body 10 in the second embodiment (corresponding to claims 4, 13 and 19). . The CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 11, and determines in step 11 whether the energy saving key is pressed (a predetermined switch is operated).

Then, when the energy saving key is pressed,
In step 12, the PPC internal information (counter information, log information, etc.) to be reported to the central management device 5 stored in the nonvolatile RAM 15 is stored in the RAM 23 of the communication unit 20 (another memory such as a nonvolatile RAM is provided). (This memory may be used if necessary). Actually, the PPC internal information in the non-volatile RAM 15 is stored in the DPRAM 21 of the communication unit 20, and the information stored in the DPRAM 21 is stored in the communication unit 20.
Store in the RAM 23.

Thereafter, in step 13, the mode is shifted to the energy saving mode, and the power supply to the apparatus main body 10 is stopped. The configuration and control of the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1 in this case are the same as those in the first embodiment. As in the case of the first embodiment, the time of the unused state of the apparatus main body 10 is measured using the real-time clock circuit 12, and when the measured time continues for a predetermined time, the apparatus is shifted to the energy saving mode. The power supply to the apparatus main body 10 can be stopped.

As described above, when the energy saving key is depressed, or when the unused state of the apparatus main body 10 continues for a predetermined time, the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10
By storing PPC internal information (counter information, log information) to be notified to the central management device 5 in the RAM 23 of the communication unit 20 before power supply to the central management device 5 is stopped, energy saving is realized, and Communication can always be executed, and the latest internal information such as counter information and log information can be reliably transmitted to the central management device 5 at any time.

[Third Embodiment: FIG. 12] FIG. 12 shows a third embodiment (corresponding to claims 5, 6, 14, and 15).
9 is a flowchart showing an information transfer process by the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 in the case of FIG. CPU 1 of device body 10
1 performs the following processing in addition to the same processing as in the first or second embodiment. That is, although illustration is omitted,
The time is measured using the real-time clock circuit 12, and a process of setting the evacuation flag at every preset time is performed.

Further, the processing shown in FIG. 12 is started periodically, and it is determined in step 21 whether or not the evacuation flag is set. If the evacuation flag is set, it is stored in the nonvolatile RAM 15 in step 22. The PPC internal information (counter information, log information, etc.) to be reported to the central management device 5 is stored in the RAM 23 (non-volatile RAM) of the communication unit 20.
(If the other memory is provided, the memory may be used). Actually, the nonvolatile RAM 1
5 is stored in the DPRAM 21 of the communication unit 20, and the information stored in the DPRAM 21 is stored in the RAM 23 by the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20. Thereafter, in step 23, the evacuation flag is reset.

As described above, the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10
Performs the same processing as in the first or second embodiment, and stores the PPC internal information in the DPRAM 21 at every preset time.
The information stored in the communication unit 20 is stored in the RAM by the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20.
By storing in the storage unit 23, the following effect can be obtained in addition to the same effect as in the first or second embodiment.

That is, since the PPC internal information updated at predetermined time intervals is stored in the RAM 23 of the communication section 20, the PPC internal information is accessed when the central management device 5 accesses (a request for transmitting the PPC internal information). The information can be transmitted to the central management device 5 immediately. Therefore,
Communication time can be shortened, leading to a reduction in communication costs.

[Fourth Embodiment: FIG. 13] FIG. 13 shows a fourth embodiment (corresponding to claims 5, 7, 14, and 16).
9 is a flowchart showing an information transfer process by the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 in the case of FIG. CPU 1 of device body 10
1 performs the following processing in addition to the same processing as in the first or second embodiment.

That is, the process shown in FIG. 13 is started periodically, and in step 31, the PPC internal information (counter information, log information, etc.) stored in the non-volatile RAM 15 to be reported to the central management device 5 has changed. It is determined whether or not it has changed, and if it has changed, in step 32 the changed internal information is transferred to the RAM 23 of the communication unit 20 (or another memory such as a non-volatile RAM, if provided). Actually, the device body 10 in the nonvolatile RAM 15
The changed internal information is stored in the DPRAM 21 of the communication unit 20 and the information stored in the DPRAM 21 is stored in the communication unit 2.
0 is stored in the RAM 23.

As described above, the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10
Performs the same processing as that of the first or second embodiment, and stores the PPC internal information in the DPRAM 21 when the information is changed.
The CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 stores the information stored in the
By storing it in M23, the following effect can be obtained in addition to the same effect as in the third embodiment.

That is, as compared with the case of the third embodiment, there is no need to perform time measurement using the real-time clock circuit 12, and only when there is a change in the PPC internal information, the internal information is communicated by the CPUs 11 and 22. Part 20
Of the CPUs 11 and 22
In this case, the latest internal information of the apparatus main body 10 can be reliably transmitted to the central management apparatus 5 at the time of access from the central management apparatus 5.

[Fifth Embodiment: FIG. 14] FIG. 14 shows an energy saving mode by the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 in the fifth embodiment (corresponding to claims 8, 9, 17, 18, and 20). It is a flowchart which shows the incoming call processing.

In the case of the fifth embodiment, it is assumed that the power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1 is configured as shown in FIG.
Therefore, similarly to FIG. 10, when the energy saving key is pressed (or when the unused state of the apparatus main body 10 continues for a predetermined time), the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 shifts to the energy saving mode. By turning off 62, the power supply to the power consuming portion excluding the communication unit 20 and the control unit of the apparatus main body 10 is stopped.

On the other hand, the CPU 22 of the communication unit 20 starts the processing of FIG. 14 in the energy saving mode, and determines whether or not an off-hook state is established in a step 41. If the off-hook state is established, an ID tone (DTMF) is determined in a step 42. The presence / absence of detection of identification information by a tone signal such as a signal is checked. If no ID tone is detected, step 48 is performed.
FAX (or TEL) communication is performed at step 49, and it is determined at step 49 whether or not an on-hook state is established.

On the other hand, if an ID tone is detected, it is determined that there is an incoming call from the central management unit 5 and step 43
Performs a line connection process with the central management apparatus 5, and in step 44, the contents of the incoming call from the central management apparatus 5 are changed to an access request to the apparatus main body 10 (acquisition of PPC internal information or PPC
It is determined whether or not the request is for remote tuning. If it is not an access request to the apparatus main body 10, normal data communication is performed between the communication unit 20 and the central management apparatus 5 in step 50, and the communication is performed in step 51. After completion, the process returns to the step 41.

If the content of the incoming call from the central management device 5 is an access request to the device main body 10, step 4
5 to temporarily release the energy-saving mode and
C) is started. At this time, the CPU 1 of the apparatus main body 10
1 turns on the relay 62 to temporarily release the suspension of power supply to the power consuming portion excluding the communication unit 20 and the control unit of the apparatus main body 10 to enable the central management apparatus 5 to access the apparatus main body 10. I do.

Then, in step 46, the central management unit 5 causes the main unit 10 to access (acquire PPC internal information or PPC remote tuning),
After the communication with the central management apparatus 5 is completed, the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 shifts to the energy saving mode again in step 47, and the relay 62 is turned off to save the power consumption excluding the communication unit 20 and the control unit of the apparatus main body 10. After stopping the power supply to the portion having a large number, the process returns to step 41.

As described above, when the energy saving key is depressed, or when the unused state of the apparatus main body 10 continues for a predetermined time, the CPU 11 of the apparatus main body 10 shifts to the energy saving mode, and the communication section 20 and the apparatus main body 10 When the communication unit 20 receives a request for access to the device main body 10 from the central management device 5 via the public network 6 from the central management device 5, the power consumption is stopped. If the power supply to the part with a large number of power supplies has been stopped, the power supply stop is temporarily released and the central
Access to and after that access is over,
By stopping the power supply to the portion where the power consumption is high again, communication with the central management device 5 (including access to the device main body 10 by the central management device 5) can be executed even in the energy saving mode.

That is, while realizing energy saving, communication with the central management device 5 can always be executed, and
PPC internal information such as 0 counter information and log information can be transmitted to the central management device 5 at any time. If the relay 62 is used to stop and release the power supply to the portion where the power consumption is large, it is possible to reliably stop and release the power supply.

[0101]

As described above, according to the present invention, even when an image forming apparatus having an energy saving function used in an image forming apparatus management system is designed to have a function as a data communication apparatus, a central processing unit can be used. Communication with the management device can be always executed, and internal information such as counter information and log information can be transmitted to the central management device at any time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control system of the copying apparatus 1 of FIG.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system embodying the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a communication unit 20 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of an NCU 26 in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a circuit diagram illustrating a configuration example of a power supply unit of the copying apparatus 1 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a circuit diagram showing another configuration example of the copying apparatus 1 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a circuit diagram showing still another example of the configuration of the copying apparatus 1 of FIG. 2;

FIG. 8 is a layout diagram illustrating a configuration example of an operation display unit of the copying apparatus 1 of FIG. 2;

9 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image forming mode screen displayed on a character display 83 in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing power supply control by the CPU of the apparatus main body of the copying apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing power supply control by the CPU of the apparatus main body of the copying apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an information transfer process by the CPU of the apparatus main body of the copying apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an information transfer process by a CPU of a copying apparatus according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an incoming call process in the energy saving mode by the CPU of the communication unit of the copying apparatus according to the fifth embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1: Copying device 2: Facsimile device 3: Center terminal 4, 27: Modem 5: Central management device 6: Public line network 10: Device body 11, 22: CPU (central processing unit) 12, 25: Real time clock circuit 13, 24: ROM 14, 23: RAM 15: Non-volatile RAM 16: I / O port 17a, 17b, 17c: Serial communication unit 18: Main bus 20: Communication unit 21: Dual port RAM (DPRAM) 26: NCU (network control device) 28: dedicated bus 31: protection circuit 32: loop current detection circuit 33: ringing detection circuit 34: line switching circuit 35: loop forming circuit 41: noise filter 42: first DC power supply 42a: switching regulator 43: second DC power supply 44: Power switch with electromagnetic reset function 51: Normal Source switch 61: a DC power supply 62: Relay 76: energy-saving / mode clear key

Claims (20)

[Claims] 1. A business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public line by a central management apparatus, wherein the image forming apparatus is controlled by the centralized management apparatus. Unit, comprising a communication unit that communicates with the central management device via a public line, and a power supply unit that supplies power to both the device body and the communication unit. Power is supplied from the power supply unit to both the device body and the communication unit, and when the unused state of the device body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated, the power supply to the device body is stopped. An image forming apparatus management system comprising a power supply control unit. 2. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein a power supply unit of the image forming apparatus is connected to a first DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on AC from an AC power supply. A power supply switch having an electromagnetic reset function between the AC power supply and the first DC power supply, the power supply switch including a second DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the communication unit based on an AC from the AC power supply. Power supply control means of the control unit, when the unused state of the device body continues for a predetermined time, or when a predetermined switch is operated, the power supply switch with the electromagnetic reset function is turned off means An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: 3. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein a power supply unit of the image forming apparatus is provided with a first DC power supply for supplying a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on an AC from an AC power supply. A second direct-current power supply that supplies a predetermined direct current to the communication unit based on an alternating current from the alternating-current power source. At least the first direct-current power source includes a switching regulator. The power supply control means is means for stopping the oscillation of the switching regulator of the first DC power supply when the unused state of the device main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. Image forming apparatus management system. 4. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1, wherein a communication unit of the image forming apparatus includes a memory such as a RAM, and the control unit includes at least the power supply control. An image forming apparatus management unit that stores, in a memory of the communication unit, internal information of the apparatus main body to be notified to the central management apparatus before power supply to the apparatus main body is stopped by means. system. 5. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 4, wherein the microcomputer of the apparatus main body of the image forming apparatus includes a microcomputer, the microcomputer of the communication section, and the microcomputer of the microcomputer and the control section. Dual port R connected to each bus
And a microcomputer of the control unit stores internal information of the device main body to be notified to the central management device in the dual port RAM, and transmits the information stored in the dual port RAM to the communication unit. An image forming apparatus management system, wherein the microcomputer stores the image data in the memory. 6. The microcomputer of the control unit,
6. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 5, wherein internal information of the apparatus main body is stored in the dual port RAM at predetermined time intervals. 7. The microcomputer of the control unit,
6. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 5, wherein internal information of the apparatus main body is stored in the dual port RAM when the information changes. 8. A business image forming apparatus management system in which a central management apparatus remotely manages a plurality of image forming apparatuses via a public line, wherein the control is to control the image forming apparatuses in an integrated manner. Unit, a communication unit that communicates with the central management device via a public line, and a power supply unit that supplies power to both the device body and the communication unit. Power is supplied from the power supply unit to both the device body and the communication unit, and when the unused state of the device body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated, the communication unit and the device body A first power supply control unit for stopping power supply to a portion having a large power consumption except for the control unit, and the communication unit accessing the device main body from the central management device via a public line. When receiving the request, if the power supply to the power consumption is large part has been stopped, to enable access to the apparatus body by the central management device to release temporarily the power supply stop,
An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: a second power supply control unit for stopping power supply to the power consuming portion again after the access is completed. 9. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 8, wherein the power supply unit of the image forming apparatus supplies a predetermined direct current to the apparatus main body and the communication unit based on an alternating current from an alternating current power supply. A power supply, a relay is interposed between the power supply unit and the power consuming portion, and a first power supply control unit of the control unit, when the unused state of the device main body continues for a predetermined time, Alternatively, when a predetermined switch is operated, the relay is turned off. The second power supply control unit of the control unit is configured so that the communication unit is connected to the device main body from the central management device via a public line. When the access request is received, if the relay is turned off, the relay is turned on to enable the central management device to access the device main body, and the access is completed. The image forming apparatus management system characterized in that a means for again off the relay. 10. An image forming apparatus which is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line, comprising: an apparatus main body including a control unit for controlling the apparatus in an integrated manner; A communication unit for communicating
A power supply unit that supplies power to both the device main body and the communication unit.The control unit normally supplies power from the power supply unit to both the device main body and the communication unit, and the unused state of the device main body. An image forming apparatus provided with power supply control means for stopping power supply to the apparatus main body when a predetermined time has been maintained or a predetermined switch has been operated. 11. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the power supply unit includes: a first DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on an AC from an AC power supply; A second DC power supply for supplying a predetermined direct current to the communication unit based on an alternating current; a power switch with an electromagnetic reset function interposed between the alternating current power supply and the first direct current power supply; The power supply control means of the unit is a means for turning off the power switch with the electromagnetic reset function when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. Image forming device. 12. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the power supply unit comprises: a first DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to the apparatus main body based on an AC from an AC power supply; A second DC power supply that supplies a predetermined direct current to the communication unit based on an alternating current; at least the first direct current power supply includes a switching regulator; and the power supply control unit of the control unit includes: An image forming apparatus comprising: means for stopping oscillation of a switching regulator of the first DC power supply when an unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. 13. The image forming apparatus according to claim 10, wherein the communication unit is provided with a memory such as a RAM, and the control unit is connected to the apparatus main body by at least the power supply control unit. Means for storing internal information of the apparatus main body to be notified to the central management apparatus in a memory of the communication unit before stopping power supply to the image forming apparatus 14. The image forming apparatus according to claim 13, wherein a microcomputer is connected to a control unit of the apparatus main body, and the microcomputer is connected to the communication unit and a bus of the microcomputer and the microcomputer of the control unit. A dual-port RAM, the microcomputer of the control unit stores internal information of the device main body to be notified to the central management device in the dual-port RAM, and stores the information stored in the dual-port RAM. An image forming apparatus, wherein a microcomputer of a communication unit stores the information in the memory. 15. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the microcomputer of the control unit stores the internal information of the apparatus main body in the dual port RAM at predetermined time intervals. . 16. The image forming apparatus according to claim 14, wherein the microcomputer of the control unit stores internal information of the apparatus main body in the dual port RAM when the information changes. apparatus. 17. An image forming apparatus which is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line, comprising: an apparatus main body including a control unit for controlling the apparatus in an integrated manner; A communication unit for communicating
A power supply unit that supplies power to both the device main body and the communication unit.The control unit normally supplies power from the power supply unit to both the device main body and the communication unit, and the unused state of the device main body. When a predetermined time is continued or when a predetermined switch is operated, first power supply control means for stopping power supply to a portion having a large power consumption except for the communication unit and the control unit of the apparatus main body, When the communication unit receives an access request to the device main body from a central management device via a public line, if the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped, the power supply stop is temporarily released. To allow access to the device body by the central management device,
An image forming apparatus comprising: a second power supply control unit for stopping power supply to the power-consuming portion again after the access is completed. 18. The image forming apparatus according to claim 17, wherein the power supply unit is a DC power supply that supplies a predetermined DC to each of the apparatus main body and the communication unit based on an AC from an AC power supply. A relay is interposed between the unit and the power consuming part, and the first power supply control unit of the control unit operates when the unused state of the apparatus main body continues for a predetermined time or when a predetermined switch is operated. When the device main body receives an access request from the central management device via a public line, the relay is turned off. In the case where the relay has been turned off, the relay is turned on to enable access to the apparatus main body by the central management device, and after the access is completed, the relay is turned off again by means. An image forming apparatus comprising Rukoto. 19. A power supply control method for controlling power supply from a power supply unit in an image forming apparatus that is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line. Let it feed,
When the unused state of the device continues for a predetermined period of time or when a predetermined switch is operated, communication for communicating internal information of the device to be notified to the central management device with the central management device via a public line. A power supply control method comprising: stopping power supply to each unit except the communication unit after storing the data in an internal memory of the unit. 20. A power supply control method for controlling power supply from a power supply unit in an image forming apparatus which is remotely managed by a central management apparatus via a public line. Let it feed,
When the unused state of the device continues for a predetermined time, or when a predetermined switch is operated, the power consumption to a portion having a large power consumption excluding a communication unit and a control unit communicating with the central management device via a public line is reduced. When the power supply is stopped and the communication unit receives an access request from the central management device via a public line, if the power supply to the power consuming portion is stopped, the power supply stop is temporarily released. A power supply control method for enabling access by the central management device, and after the access is completed, stopping power supply to the power consuming portion again.