JP2004172938A - Network gateway device - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a communication system enabling communication between network facsimile equipment connected to an IP network and G3/G4 facsimile equipment connected to a public network. <P>SOLUTION: By utilizing an extended D-SMTP system communication function for which a D-SMTP system communication function is extended, image information can be transmitted from the network facsimile equipment connected to the Internet INET to the group 3 facsimile equipment GX connected to an analog public network PSTN. Thus, it is very convenient. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2004,JPO

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a network gateway device provided with an IP network connecting means for connecting to an IP network and a public network connecting means for connecting to a public network.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, ITU-T Recommendation T. With the establishment of 37, Internet-compatible facsimile machines that convert facsimile image information into an electronic mail format generally exchanged on the Internet and transmit / receive the electronic mail have begun to spread.
[0003]
This Recommendation T. As a communication method compatible with the 37 communication function, for example, an e-mail type Internet facsimile communication system for communicating facsimile image information using an e-mail exchanged on the Internet includes RFC (Request For Comments) 2301 to 2306. Stipulated by Here, the RFC is a document on a technology to be referred to by a communication application on the Internet or the like, and is issued by an IETF (Internet Engineering Task Force; an organization that summarizes technical contents related to the Internet).
[0004]
Also, in April 1999, T.100 packetized on a packet network including an IP network. ITU-T Recommendation T.30 for exchanging signals 38 has been enacted. This T. By utilizing the 38 communication technology, the capability exchange between terminals (related to FAX) and real-time communication are guaranteed.
[0005]
Furthermore, in recent years, the IETF has used a communication method (commonly called "DirectSMTP", hereinafter referred to as "DirectSMTP") for directly exchanging capabilities with a partner network fax using an SMTP (Simple Mail Transfer Protocol) which is a protocol used for sending and receiving e-mail. -SMTP ”) has been published (see Non-Patent Document 1).
[0006]
[Non-patent document 1]
K. Toyoda, D.A. Clocker, "SMTP Service Extension for Content Negotiation", [online], [searched on November 19, 2002], Internet <URL: http: // www. ief. org / internet-drafts / draft-iet-fax-esmtp-conneg-03. txt>
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
By the way, Recommendation T. In the 37 communication system, facsimile image information is stored in a mail server and transferred, so that there is a problem that capability exchange cannot be performed during communication and communication is not immediate.
[0008]
In order to overcome the problem, the enacted Recommendation T. In the 38 communication system, complete capability exchange can be performed end-to-end, and real-time communication with a conventional G3 facsimile apparatus located on a public network is also possible. Because of its complexity, implementation is difficult, and T. There is a drawback that there is no compatibility with a T.37 terminal (a communication terminal having a recommended T.37 communication function, the same applies hereinafter).
[0009]
The D-SMTP method has been proposed as a solution to such a problem. However, this D-SMTP system only regulates communication between network facsimile apparatuses connected to an IP network such as the Internet, and therefore, a conventional facsimile (G3 / No consideration is given to communication with a G4 facsimile apparatus.
[0010]
The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and provides a network gateway that enables communication between a network facsimile device connected to an IP network and a G3 / G4 facsimile device connected to a public network. It is intended to provide a device.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
The present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus between an IP network connecting means connected to an IP network, a public network connecting means connecting to a public network, a network facsimile apparatus connected to the IP network, and a facsimile apparatus connected to the public network. It comprises protocol conversion means for performing communication in real time using an e-mail protocol, and communication control means for determining a usable communication mode of a communication partner terminal and performing a communication operation in the determined communication mode. is there.
[0012]
Further, the facsimile communication between the IP network connection means connected to the IP network, the public network connection means connected to the public network, the network facsimile apparatus connected to the IP network, and the facsimile apparatus connected to the public network is performed. A protocol conversion unit that performs real time using an e-mail protocol and a communication partner terminal can use any communication mode of the extended D-SMTP communication mode, the D-SMTP communication mode, or the e-mail communication mode. And a communication control means for performing a communication operation in the determined communication mode.
[0013]
Further, the facsimile communication between the IP network connection means connected to the IP network, the public network connection means connected to the public network, the network facsimile apparatus connected to the IP network, and the facsimile apparatus connected to the public network is performed. Protocol conversion means for performing real-time using an e-mail protocol; and determining whether the communication partner terminal can use the extended D-SMTP communication mode. If the communication terminal cannot use the extended D-SMTP communication mode, the communication operation ends with an error. If it can be used, it has communication control means for performing a communication operation in the extended D-SMTP communication mode.
[0014]
Further, the facsimile communication between the IP network connection means connected to the IP network, the public network connection means connected to the public network, the network facsimile apparatus connected to the IP network, and the facsimile apparatus connected to the public network is performed. Protocol conversion means for real-time using an e-mail protocol, user setting information storage means for storing communication modes usable by user settings, and whether the communication partner terminal can use the extended D-SMTP communication mode Is determined, and the communication operation in the extended D-SMTP communication mode is performed when the communication mode is available, and when the communication operation is not available, the communication mode stored as the communication mode usable in the user setting information storage unit. Is checked, and if the communication mode is stored as an available communication mode, the communication operation of the communication mode is performed. Those having a power sale communication control means.
[0015]
The communication apparatus further includes a communication result notifying unit for notifying the user of the communication result.
[0016]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0017]
FIG. 1 shows a communication system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0018]
In the figure, the Internet INET as an IP network includes gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2, a network facsimile apparatus FX, and an SMTP server apparatus MS (including a network facsimile apparatus (T.37 terminal) having an SMTP server function). The group 3 facsimile machines GX1 and GX2 are connected to the analog public networks PSTN1 and PSTN2, respectively.
[0019]
Further, the gateway device GW1 connects between another gateway device GW2 of the Internet INET and the group 3 facsimile device GX1 of the analog public network PSTN1 to enable mutual communication (extended D-SMTP type gateway function). (To be described later), and the gateway device GW2 has a function of connecting between another gateway device GW1 of the Internet INET and the group 3 facsimile device GX2 of the analog public network PSTN2 to enable mutual communication. I have.
[0020]
In addition, the group 3 facsimile apparatuses GX1 and GX2 use the normal group 3 facsimile communication function and the other group 3 facsimile apparatuses GX2 and GX1 when making a call using the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2. A destination notification function is provided for notifying the gateway devices GW1 and GW2 of destination information designating the group 3 facsimile machines GX2 and GX1.
[0021]
Further, the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2 transmit and receive facsimile image information using electronic mail. 37, a communication function of the D-SMTP method, and a gateway function corresponding to the extended D-SMTP method for performing facsimile communication with the group 3 facsimile apparatuses GX1 and GX2 of the analog public network PSTN.
[0022]
Accordingly, in the present embodiment, a communication mode in which the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 performs a real-time communication operation with the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 via the gateway apparatus GW1 and the gateway apparatus GW2 (hereinafter, “communication mode 1”) ), A communication mode in which the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 performs a real-time communication operation with the network facsimile apparatus FX via the gateway apparatus GW1 (hereinafter, referred to as “communication mode 2”), and group 3 A communication mode in which the facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits image information to the SMTP server apparatus MS via the gateway apparatus GW1 (hereinafter, referred to as "communication mode 3")
[0023]
FIG. 2 shows an example of the configuration of a group 3 facsimile machine GX (GX1, GX2) according to an embodiment of the present invention.
[0024]
In FIG. 1, a system control unit 1 performs a control process of each unit of the group 3 facsimile apparatus and a predetermined group 3 facsimile transmission control procedure process, and a system memory 2 is executed by the system control unit 1. A control processing program and various data necessary for executing the processing program are stored, and a work area of the system control unit 1 is configured. The parameter memory 3 is unique to the group 3 facsimile apparatus. The clock circuit 4 is for storing various kinds of information, and is for outputting current time information.
[0025]
The scanner 5 is for reading a document image at a predetermined resolution, the plotter 6 is for recording and outputting an image at a predetermined resolution, and the operation display unit 7 is for operating this group 3 facsimile apparatus. And consists of various operation keys and various indicators.
[0026]
The encoding / decoding unit 8 encodes and compresses the image signal and decodes the encoded and compressed image information into the original image signal. The image storage device 9 encodes and compresses the image signal. This is for storing a large number of image information in the closed state.
[0027]
The group 3 facsimile modem 10 is for realizing a group 3 facsimile modem function, and is a low-speed modem function (V.21 modem) for exchanging transmission procedure signals, and mainly for exchanging image information. It has a high-speed modem function (V.17 modem, V.34 modem, V.29 modem, V.27ter modem, etc.).
[0028]
The network control device 11 is for connecting the group 3 facsimile apparatus to the analog public network PSTN, and has an automatic transmission / reception function.
[0029]
These are a system control unit 1, a system memory 2, a parameter memory 3, a clock circuit 4, a scanner 5, a plotter 6, an operation display unit 7, an encoding / decoding unit 8, an image storage device 9, a group 3 facsimile modem 10, and , The network controller 11 is connected to an internal bus 12, and data exchange between these elements is mainly performed through the internal bus 12.
[0030]
Data exchange between the network control device 11 and the group 3 facsimile modem 10 is directly performed.
[0031]
FIG. 3 shows a configuration example of the gateway device GW (GW1, GW2). The gateway device GW not only functions as a gateway but also has a function of directly communicating with the network facsimile device FX or the group 3 facsimile device GX.
[0032]
In the figure, a system control unit 21 performs control processing of each unit of the gateway apparatus GW, 37, which performs various control processes such as a communication function process, a D-SMTP system communication function process, and an extended D-SMTP system gateway function process. The system memory 22 includes a control process program executed by the system control unit 21, In addition to storing various data required when executing the processing program, the work area of the system control unit 21 is configured. The parameter memory 23 stores various information unique to the gateway device GW. The clock circuit 24 outputs current time information.
[0033]
The scanner 25 is for reading an original image at a predetermined resolution, the plotter 26 is for recording and outputting an image at a predetermined resolution, and the magnetic disk device 27 is for reading the image of the gateway device GW. This is for storing an execution program, various parameter data, and the like.
[0034]
The operation display unit 28 is for operating the gateway device GW, and includes various operation keys and various displays.
[0035]
The encoding / decoding unit 29 encodes and compresses the image signal and decodes the encoded and compressed image information into the original image signal. The image storage device 30 encodes and compresses the image signal. This is for storing a large number of image information in the closed state.
[0036]
The group 3 facsimile modem 31 is for realizing a group 3 facsimile modem function, and is a low-speed modem function (V.21 modem) for exchanging transmission procedure signals, and mainly for exchanging image information. It has a high-speed modem function (V.17 modem, V.34 modem, V.29 modem, V.27ter modem, etc.).
[0037]
The network control device 32 is for connecting the gateway device GW to the analog public switched telephone network PSTN, and has an automatic transmission / reception function.
[0038]
The Internet interface circuit 33 is for connecting the gateway device GW to the Internet INET. The Internet transmission control unit 34 is for exchanging various data with other terminal devices via the Internet INET. For executing communication control processing of various predetermined protocol suites.
[0039]
These are a system control unit 21, a system memory 22, a parameter memory 23, a clock circuit 24, a scanner 25, a plotter 26, a magnetic disk device 27, an operation display unit 28, an encoding / decoding unit 29, an image storage device 30, a group 3 The facsimile modem 31, the network control device 32, and the local area network transmission control unit 34 are connected to an internal bus 35, and exchange of data between these elements is mainly performed through the internal bus 25. Have been
[0040]
Data exchange between the network controller 32 and the group 3 facsimile modem 31 is directly performed.
[0041]
FIG. 4 shows an example of the configuration of the network facsimile machine FX.
[0042]
In the figure, the system control unit 41 performs control processing of each unit of the network facsimile machine FX, 37, which performs various control processes such as a communication function process, a D-SMTP communication function process, and an extended D-SMTP communication function process. The system memory 42 includes a control processing program executed by the system control unit 41, In addition to storing various data required when executing the processing program, it constitutes a work area of the system control unit 41. The parameter memory 43 stores various information unique to the network facsimile machine FX. The clock circuit 44 outputs the current time information.
[0043]
The scanner 45 is for reading a document image at a predetermined resolution, the plotter 46 is for recording and outputting an image at a predetermined resolution, and the operation display unit 47 operates the network facsimile machine FX. And consists of various operation keys and various indicators.
[0044]
The encoding / decoding section 48 encodes and compresses the image signal and decodes the encoded and compressed image information into the original image signal. This is for storing a large number of image information in the state of being closed.
[0045]
The magnetic disk device 50 stores an execution program of the network facsimile device FX, various parameter data, and the like.
[0046]
The Internet interface circuit 51 is for connecting the network facsimile machine FX to the Internet INET, and the Internet transmission controller 52 exchanges various data with other terminal devices via the Internet INET. For performing communication control processing of various predetermined protocol suites.
[0047]
These include a system control unit 41, a system memory 42, a parameter memory 43, a clock circuit 44, a scanner 45, a plotter 46, an operation display unit 47, an encoding / decoding unit 48, an image storage device 49, a magnetic disk device 50, The Internet transmission control unit 52 is connected to an internal bus 53, and data exchange between these components is mainly performed via the internal bus 53.
[0048]
In addition, the gateway device GW includes an address conversion table for converting the destination information received from the group 3 facsimile device GX into a mail address of the corresponding network facsimile device FX.
[0049]
This address conversion table is, for example, a group of a plurality of pieces of address conversion information as shown in FIG. 5A, and each address conversion information is group 3 facsimile as shown in FIG. It consists of a number (or sub-address) as destination information notified from the device GX, and an e-mail address registered at the number (sub-address).
[0050]
For example, the address “print@ifax.tokyo.abc.co.jp” is assigned to the number “0001”, and the address “print@ifax.osaka.abc.co.jp” is assigned to the number “0002”. [0003], the address "print@192.168.0.10" is registered, and the number "0004" is registered with the address "fax=0123456789@ifax.tokyo.abc.co.jp".
[0051]
Further, the value of the number may be, for example, a one-touch dial number or a reception box number of a so-called reception box function.
[0052]
By the way, the extended D-SMTP communication function basically uses a command in the D-SMTP communication function. Therefore, after starting communication of the extended D-SMTP communication function, If it is determined that the partner terminal does not have the extended D-SMTP communication function, from that point on, the communication is switched to the D-SMTP communication function, and the image information is also transmitted using e-mail. . It is also possible to switch to communication of 37 communication functions.
[0053]
6 and 7 show an example of an operation (communication mode 1) when transmitting image information from the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 using the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2.
[0054]
First, the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 sends a call to the gateway apparatus GW1, and when the gateway apparatus GW1 responds to the incoming call, transmits a signal RING and then transmits destination information using a push button signal. For example, when transmitting the destination information of the number “0004”, the numbers “0”, “0”, “0”, and “4” of the push button signal are continuously transmitted to the gateway device GW1.
[0055]
On the other hand, when a call is originated from analog public network PSTN1, gateway apparatus GW1 responds to an incoming call and waits for reception of signal RING. When receiving the signal RING, the push button signal is received from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1, and the number carried by the received push button signal is recognized.
[0056]
Then, an e-mail address corresponding to the recognized number is obtained by referring to the address conversion table. At this time, if the received number is not registered in the address conversion table, the communication operation at this time cannot be performed, so that the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 is disconnected and restored at that time.
[0057]
When the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW1 sends a signal CED to the group 3 facsimile device GX1 on the calling side. The gateway device GW1 requests the SMTP port open by designating the gateway device GW2. On the other hand, the gateway device GW2 responds with a signal “220” to the gateway device GW1.
[0058]
Next, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command EHLO, which is a start command of ESMTP, to the gateway device GW2.
[0059]
The gateway device GW2 that has received the command EHLO receives the signal “250-FAXGW” notifying that the communication device has the extended D-SMTP communication function and the signal “250-FAXGW” notifying that the communication device has the D-SMTP communication function. "CONNEG" to the gateway device GW.
[0060]
In this case, the gateway device GW1 determines to use the extended D-SMTP type gateway function in this case (communication mode 1).
[0061]
As a result, the gateway device GW1 transmits the command “MAIL FROM: <own mail address>” to the gateway device GW2, and notifies the mail address of the transmission source. Here, the gateway device GW2 can determine the connection permission by using “<own mail address>” which is a parameter of the received command “MAIL FROM”.
[0062]
Then, if the reception of the electronic mail at that time can be permitted, the gateway device GW2 responds to the signal “250” to the gateway device GW1.
[0063]
Next, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain>” for specifying the final destination (in this case, the group 3 facsimile device GX2) to the gateway device GW2. Here, as the parameter of the command “RCPT TO”, an e-mail address obtained by referring to the address conversion table is applied. For example, when the e-mail address registered in the destination number "0004" is "fax=0123456789@ifax.tokyo.abc.co.jp", the value is set.
[0064]
As a result, the gateway device GW2 uses the analog public network PSTN2 to make a call to the destination group 3 facsimile device GX2 specified by the command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain>”.
[0065]
Thereby, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 responds to the incoming call and starts a predetermined group 3 facsimile transmission procedure. Therefore, the group 3 facsimile machine GX2 responds to the gateway device GW2 with a signal CED, and then responds to the gateway device GW2 with a signal CSI (identification information of its own terminal) / DIS (capability information of its own terminal).
[0066]
Upon receiving the signal CSI / DIS, the gateway device GW2 recognizes the reception capability parameter (binary data) included in the signal DIS, and responds to the command “RCPTTO: <fax = 1234 @ domain>” to the gateway device GW1. “Capability information” for notifying the recognized reception capability parameter is added as a parameter to the response signal “250” to respond. The “capability information” at this time is a value obtained by MIME-converting the reception parameter.
[0067]
As a result, the gateway device GW1 transmits the signal CSI (receiving terminal identification information) / DIS (reception capability of the network facsimile device FX) to the group 3 facsimile device GX1.
[0068]
Accordingly, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 sets the communication function to be used at that time based on the parameters of the received signal DIS, the image mode of the image information to be transmitted, and the available modem speed, and sets the signal TSI (transmission Terminal identification information) / DCS (capability notification) is transmitted to the gateway device GW1, and a signal TCF is transmitted to the gateway device GW1 in order to perform modem training at the modem speed set by the signal DCS.
[0069]
Upon receiving the signal TSI / DCS, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain> capability information” to the gateway device GW2 to notify the parameters of the signal DCS. Here, the parameter “capability information” is a value obtained by MIME-converting the parameter of the signal DCS.
[0070]
Upon receiving the command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain> capability information”, the gateway device GW2 interprets the parameter “capability information”, creates a corresponding signal TSI / DCS, and sends it to the group 3 facsimile device GX2. Send.
[0071]
Next, gateway apparatus GW2 transmits signal TCF to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 to perform modem training at the modem speed specified by the parameter “capability information” at that time.
[0072]
Here, when the training has failed, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 transmits a signal FTT to the gateway apparatus GW2.
[0073]
Thereby, gateway apparatus GW2 responds to gateway apparatus GW1 with a response signal "450 FTT" as a response to the command "RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain> capability information".
[0074]
Therefore, gateway apparatus GW1 responds to signal FTT to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1. Thereby, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 resets the communication function used at that time, transmits the signal TSI / DCS to the gateway apparatus GW1, and performs modem training at the modem speed reset by the signal DCS. The signal TCF is transmitted to the gateway device GW1.
[0075]
Upon receiving the signal TSI / DCS, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain> capability information” to the gateway device GW2 to notify the parameters of the signal DCS.
[0076]
Upon receiving the command “RCPT TO: <fax = 1234 @ domain> capability information”, the gateway device GW2 interprets the parameter “capability information”, creates a corresponding signal TSI / DCS, and sends it to the group 3 facsimile device GX2. Send.
[0077]
Next, gateway apparatus GW2 transmits signal TCF to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 to perform modem training at the modem speed specified by the parameter “capability information” at that time.
[0078]
Here, when the training is successful, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 transmits a signal CFR to the gateway apparatus GW2.
[0079]
Thereby, gateway device GW2 responds to signal “250 CFR” to gateway device GW1. Further, gateway apparatus GW1 transmits signal CFR to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1.
[0080]
When the communication function to be used is set in this way, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits the image information PIX for one page, and when the transmission is completed, transmits the signal EOP as the post-message signal.
[0081]
Further, the gateway device GW1 converts the image information PIX received from the group 3 facsimile device GX1 into MIME, transmits the image information PIX as transmission data DATA to the gateway device GW2, and receives a post-message signal. . (Period) "to the gateway device GW2.
[0082]
The gateway device GW2 performs inverse MIME conversion of the transmission data DATA received from the gateway device GW1, and transmits the image data PIX to the group 3 facsimile device GX2. When the data ". (Period)" indicating the end of the data transfer is received, the post-message signal EOP is transmitted to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2.
[0083]
When the image information PIX has been normally received, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 transmits a signal MCF to the gateway apparatus GW2. Thereby, the gateway device GW2 transmits the signal “354” to the gateway device GW1. Thereby, gateway apparatus GW1 transmits signal MCF to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1.
[0084]
As a result, since the transmission of the image information has been completed, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits the signal DCN to the gateway apparatus GW1, and restores the line. Further, upon receiving the signal DCN, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “QUIT” to the gateway device GW2.
[0085]
Thereby, gateway apparatus GW2 transmits signal DCN to group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2, whereby the line between group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 and gateway apparatus GW2 is restored.
[0086]
Further, gateway apparatus GW2 transmits signal “221” to gateway apparatus GW1, and a series of transmission operations ends.
[0087]
In this way, the image information is transmitted from the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 via the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2.
[0088]
FIG. 8 shows an example of an operation (communication mode 2) when the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits image information to the network facsimile apparatus FX using the gateway apparatus GW1. In this case, the number of transmission pages is one.
[0089]
First, the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 sends a call to the gateway apparatus GW1, and when the gateway apparatus GW1 responds to the incoming call, transmits a signal RING and then transmits destination information using a push button signal. For example, when transmitting the destination information of the number “0001”, the number “0”, the number “0”, the number “0”, and the number “1” of the push button signal are continuously transmitted to the gateway device GW1.
[0090]
On the other hand, when the gateway device GW1 is called from the analog public network PSTN, it answers the incoming call and waits to receive a signal RING. When receiving the signal RING, the push button signal is received from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1, and the number carried by the received push button signal is recognized. The function of receiving the push button signal is provided in the network control device 32.
[0091]
Then, an e-mail address corresponding to the recognized number is obtained by referring to the address conversion table. At this time, if the received number is not registered in the address conversion table, the communication operation at this time cannot be performed, so that the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 is disconnected and restored at that time.
[0092]
If the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW requests the SMTP port open by designating the network facsimile device FX. On the other hand, the network facsimile machine FX sends a signal “220” to the gateway GW1.
[0093]
Next, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the network facsimile device FX. Here, the command EHLO is also used as a command for instructing the start of the extended D-SMTP communication function.
[0094]
The network facsimile machine FX, which has received the command EHLO, responds to the gateway apparatus GW1 with a signal "250 CONNECT" notifying that it has the D-SMTP communication function. Thereby, the gateway device GW1 sends the signal CED to the group 3 facsimile device GX1.
[0095]
Thus, the gateway device GW1 determines that the communication operation is performed in the D-SMTP communication mode (communication mode 2).
[0096]
As a result, the gateway device GW1 transmits the command “MAIL FROM: <own mail address>” to the network facsimile device FX, and notifies the mail address of the transmission source. Here, the network facsimile machine FX can determine the connection permission by using “<own mail address>” which is a parameter of the received command “MAIL FROM”.
[0097]
Then, if the reception of the e-mail at that time can be permitted, the network facsimile machine FX responds to the signal “250” to the gateway GW1.
[0098]
Next, the gateway device GW1 sends the command “RCPT TO: <other mail address (mail address of the network facsimile device FX)>” for specifying the destination of the e-mail (in this case, the network facsimile device FX) to the network facsimile. Transmit to the device FX.
[0099]
As a result, the network facsimile machine FX transmits the signal “250 capability information” to the gateway GW1. Here, the value of the “capability information” added to the signal “250” is for notifying the reception capability of the network facsimile machine FX.
[0100]
Thereby, the gateway device GW1 transmits the signal CSI (destination terminal identification information) / DIS (reception capability of the network facsimile device FX) to the group 3 facsimile device GX. Here, as the parameter of the signal CSI, for example, identification information (e-mail address or the like) of the network facsimile machine FX can be used.
[0101]
Accordingly, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 sets the communication function to be used at that time based on the parameters of the received signal DIS, the image mode of the image information to be transmitted, and the available modem speed, and sets the signal TSI (transmission Terminal identification information) / DCS (capability notification) is transmitted to the gateway device GW1, and a signal TCF is transmitted to the gateway device GW1 in order to perform modem training at the modem speed set by the signal DCS.
[0102]
Thereby, when the reception result at that time is good, the gateway device GW1 responds the signal CFR to the group 3 facsimile device GX1 to notify that the preparation for receiving the image information has been completed, and thereby, The three-facsimile apparatus GX1 sequentially transmits the image information PIX for one page to the gateway apparatus GW1, and when the transmission of the image information PIX is completed, transmits the signal EOP as a post-message signal to the gateway apparatus GW1.
[0103]
Upon receiving the image information PIX from the group 3 facsimile device GX1, the gateway device GW1 performs MIME conversion on the image information PIX and sequentially transmits the image information PIX to the network facsimile device FX as image information data DATA. When the signal EOP of the post-message signal is received from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1, the data ". (Period)" is transmitted to the network facsimile machine FX to notify the end of the image information for one page.
[0104]
As a result, the network facsimile machine FX responds to the signal "354" to the gateway apparatus GW1, whereby the gateway apparatus GW1 transmits the signal MCF to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1.
[0105]
When the transmission of the image information is completed in this way, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits the signal DCN to the gateway apparatus GW1, and restores the line with the gateway apparatus GW1.
[0106]
Further, upon receiving the signal DCN, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “QUIT” to the network facsimile device FX, whereby the transmission to the network facsimile device FX responds with the signal “221”, thereby the network facsimile device. The communication between the device FX and the gateway device GW1 ends.
[0107]
In this manner, in the present embodiment, it is possible to transmit image information from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 to the network facsimile machine FX. Further, since the destination network facsimile machine FX is specified using the push button signal, no special device for specifying the destination is required.
[0108]
FIG. 9 shows an example of an operation (communication mode 3) when the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits image information to the SMTP server apparatus MS using the gateway apparatus GW1. In this case, the number of transmission pages is one.
[0109]
First, the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 sends a call to the gateway apparatus GW1, and when the gateway apparatus GW1 responds to the incoming call, transmits a signal RING and then transmits destination information using a push button signal. For example, when transmitting the destination information of the number “0001”, the number “0”, the number “0”, the number “0”, and the number “1” of the push button signal are continuously transmitted to the gateway device GW1.
[0110]
On the other hand, when the gateway device GW1 is called from the analog public network PSTN, it answers the incoming call and waits to receive a signal RING. When receiving the signal RING, the push button signal is received from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1, and the number carried by the received push button signal is recognized. The function of receiving the push button signal is provided in the network control device 32.
[0111]
Then, an e-mail address corresponding to the recognized number is obtained by referring to the address conversion table. At this time, if the received number is not registered in the address conversion table, the communication operation at this time cannot be performed, so that the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 is disconnected and restored at that time.
[0112]
If the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW specifies the SMTP server device MS and requests an SMTP port open. In response, the SMTP server device MS responds to the signal “220” to the gateway device GW1.
[0113]
Next, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the SMTP server device MS. Here, the command EHLO is also used as a command for instructing the start of the extended D-SMTP communication function.
[0114]
Upon receiving the command EHLO, the SMTP server device MS responds to the gateway device GW1 with a signal "250" notifying that the communication device has the ESMTP communication function. Thereby, the gateway device GW1 sends the signal CED to the group 3 facsimile device GX1.
[0115]
Further, in this case, the gateway device GW1 performs the communication operation to the partner terminal with T.100. 37. It is determined that the communication is to be performed in the communication mode (communication mode 3).
[0116]
Thereby, the gateway device GW1 transmits the command “MAIL FROM: <own mail address>” to the SMTP server device MS, and notifies the mail address of the transmission source. Here, the SMTP server device MS can determine the connection permission by using “<own mail address>” which is a parameter of the received command “MAIL FROM”.
[0117]
Then, if the SMTP server device MS can permit the reception of the e-mail at that time, the SMTP server device MS sends a signal “250” to the gateway device GW1.
[0118]
Next, the gateway device GW1 transmits to the SMTP server device MS a command "RCPT TO: <partner mail address>" for specifying the destination of the e-mail (in this case, the SMTP server device MS).
[0119]
Thereby, the SMTP server device MS transmits the signal “250” to the gateway device GW1.
[0120]
Thereby, the gateway device GW1 transmits the signal CSI (destination terminal identification information) / DIS (fixed value) to the group 3 facsimile device GX. Here, as the parameter of the signal CSI, for example, identification information (e-mail address or the like) of the SMTP server device MS can be used. The parameters of the signal DIS are as described in Recommendation T.30. Image mode information defined by 37 TIFF-F profiles S is set. That is, "black and white (binary), A4 size, ordinary characters, MH compression".
[0121]
Accordingly, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 sets the communication function to be used at that time based on the parameters of the received signal DIS, the image mode of the image information to be transmitted, and the available modem speed, and sets the signal TSI (transmission Terminal identification information) / DCS (capability notification) is transmitted to the gateway device GW1, and a signal TCF is transmitted to the gateway device GW1 in order to perform modem training at the modem speed set by the signal DCS.
[0122]
Thereby, when the reception result at that time is good, the gateway device GW1 responds the signal CFR to the group 3 facsimile device GX1 to notify that the preparation for receiving the image information has been completed, and thereby, The three-facsimile apparatus GX1 sequentially transmits the image information PIX for one page to the gateway apparatus GW1, and when the transmission of the image information PIX is completed, transmits the signal EOP to the gateway apparatus GW1 as a post-message signal.
[0123]
Upon receiving the image information PIX from the group 3 facsimile device GX1, the gateway device GW1 converts the image information PIX into MIME and sequentially transmits the image information PIX as image information data DATA to the SMTP server device MS. Further, when the signal EOP of the post-message signal is received from the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1, the data ". (Period)" is transmitted to the SMTP server apparatus MS to notify the end of the image information for one page.
[0124]
Accordingly, the SMTP server MS responds with the signal “354” to the gateway GW1, whereby the gateway GW1 transmits the signal MCF to the group 3 facsimile machine GX1.
[0125]
When the transmission of the image information is completed in this way, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits the signal DCN to the gateway apparatus GW1, and restores the line with the gateway apparatus GW1.
[0126]
Further, upon receiving the signal DCN, the gateway device GW1 transmits a command “QUIT” to the SMTP server device MS, and the transmission to the SMTP server device MS responds with the signal “221”, thereby the SMTP server The communication between the device MS and the gateway device GW1 ends.
[0127]
In this manner, in the present embodiment, image information can be transmitted from the group 3 facsimile machine GX1 to the designated destination using the electronic mail. Further, since the destination number (address) is specified using the push button signal, no special device for specifying the destination is required.
[0128]
FIG. 10 shows an example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN. In this case, communication by the extended D-SMTP method gateway function (communication mode 1) and D-SMTP communication are performed.
[0129]
When the network control device 32 detects the incoming call, the gateway device GW responds to the incoming call (process 101), receives the signal RING (process 102), and receives the destination number by the push button signal (process 103).
[0130]
Next, an e-mail address corresponding to the destination number received in step 103 is acquired with reference to the address conversion table (step 104). At this time, it is checked whether the received destination number is registered in the address conversion table (decision 105), and if the result of the decision 105 is NO, the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored at that time. (Process 106) The process ends with an error.
[0131]
If the e-mail address has been properly acquired and the result of determination 105 is YES, the gateway device GW specifies the destination connection destination and requests an SMTP port open (process 107).
[0132]
Then, it is checked whether or not the signal "220", which is an acknowledgment, is received from the connection destination (decision 108). When the result of decision 108 is NO, the process proceeds to step 106, at which time the group 3 facsimile machine GX and The line is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0133]
On the other hand, when the result of determination 108 is YES, gateway apparatus GW transmits command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the connection destination (step 109), and determines whether signal "250" is received from the connection destination. Check (decision 110). Here, if the result of the determination 110 is NO, since the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP system gateway function or the communication operation of the D-SMTP system cannot be performed, the process proceeds to the processing 106, at which time the group 3 facsimile apparatus The line with GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0134]
When the result of the judgment 110 is YES, it is checked whether or not the signal "250 CONNECT" has been received from the connection destination (judgment 111). Even when the result of the determination 111 is NO, since the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP system gateway function or the communication operation of the D-SMTP system cannot be performed, the process proceeds to the process 106, at which point the group 3 facsimile machine GX The line with is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0135]
When the result of the determination 111 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal “250-FAXGW” representing the extended D-SMTP communication function has been received (decision 112).
[0136]
When the result of the determination 112 is YES, the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 113), and the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP type gateway function is started. Transition.
[0137]
If the result of determination 112 is NO, whether the e-mail address of the destination specified at that time is in the form of a facsimile number defined by RFC 2304 of “fax = (phone number) ＠domain” It is checked whether it is (judgment 114).
[0138]
When the result of the determination 114 is NO, since the designated destination is the final destination, the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (processing 115), and -Transition to a communication operation by the SMTP method.
[0139]
If the result of determination 114 is YES, the process proceeds to step 106, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0140]
Thus, in this case, the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP system gateway function or the communication operation of the D-SMTP system can be performed.
[0141]
FIG. 11 and FIG. 12 show another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN. In this case, the communication mode of the partner terminal is determined, and the communication mode of the own terminal is set accordingly.
[0142]
When the network controller 32 detects the incoming call, the gateway device GW responds to the incoming call (process 201), receives the signal RING (process 202), and receives the destination number by the push button signal (process 203).
[0143]
Next, an e-mail address corresponding to the destination number received in step 203 is acquired with reference to the address conversion table (step 204). At this time, it is checked whether the received destination number is registered in the address conversion table (decision 205), and if the result of the decision 205 is NO, the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored at that time. (Process 206) The process ends with an error.
[0144]
In addition, when the e-mail address has been properly acquired and the result of the determination 205 is YES, the gateway device GW specifies the destination connection destination and requests an SMTP port open (process 207).
[0145]
Then, it is checked whether or not the signal "220" which is an acknowledgment is received from the connection destination (decision 208). When the result of the decision 208 is NO, the process proceeds to a process 206, at which time the group 3 facsimile machine GX and The line is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0146]
On the other hand, when the result of determination 208 is YES, gateway apparatus GW transmits command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the connection destination (step 209), and determines whether signal "250" is received from the connection destination. Check (decision 210).
[0147]
When the result of the judgment 210 is YES, it is checked whether or not the signal "250 CONNECT" has been received from the connection destination (decision 211). When the result of the determination 211 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal "250-FAXGW" representing the extended D-SMTP communication function has been received (a determination 212).
[0148]
When the result of the determination 212 is YES, the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 213), and the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP type gateway function is started. Transition.
[0149]
When the result of the determination 212 is NO, with the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” set in the field of the signal DIS (process 214), the operation shifts to the D-SMTP communication operation. I do.
[0150]
When the result of determination 211 is NO, T.P. Since the communication operation is performed, the fixed information having the contents described above is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 215). The operation shifts to 37 communication operation.
[0151]
When the result of the determination 210 is NO, since the connection destination does not have the ESMTP communication function, an SMTP command “HELO” is transmitted to the same connection destination (processing 216), and the signal “250” is sent from the connection destination. It is checked whether or not to receive (Step 217).
[0152]
When the result of the determination 217 is YES, the process shifts to step 215, where T.V. 37 communication processing is performed.
[0153]
If the result of the determination 217 is NO, the process proceeds to step 206, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0154]
Thus, in this case, the communication operation in the communication mode corresponding to the communication function of the connection destination can be appropriately performed.
[0155]
By the way, it is also possible to set whether or not the gateway device GW can perform a communication operation other than the extended D-SMTP method gateway function. For example, this is effective when an administrator or the like wants to limit the communication function of the gateway device GW.
[0156]
In this case, as shown in FIG. 5C, a D-SMTP flag for setting whether or not to allow a D-SMTP communication operation, T.37 Set whether to allow communication operation of communication function 37 flags are provided.
[0157]
Then, when the user sets to permit the D-SMTP communication operation, “ON (1)” is stored in the value of the D-SMTP flag, and the user permits the D-SMTP communication operation. If the setting is not made, “OFF (0)” is stored as the value of the D-SMTP flag. In addition, when the user sets T. When the setting to permit the communication operation of the T.37 communication function is set, the T.37 communication function is enabled. The flag value “ON (1)” is stored in the flag value, and the user sets the T.37 flag. If the setting that the communication operation of the communication function is not permitted is set, “Off (0)” is stored as the value of the 37 flag.
[0158]
FIGS. 13 and 14 show an example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN in this case.
[0159]
When the network controller 32 detects the incoming call, the gateway device GW responds to the incoming call (process 301), receives the signal RING (process 302), and receives the destination number by the push button signal (process 303).
[0160]
Next, an e-mail address corresponding to the destination number received in step 303 is acquired with reference to the address conversion table (step 304). At this time, it is checked whether or not the received destination number is registered in the address conversion table (decision 305). (Process 306) The process ends with an error.
[0161]
If the result of the determination 305 is YES when the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW specifies the destination connection destination and requests an SMTP port open (process 307).
[0162]
Then, it is checked whether or not the signal "230", which is an acknowledgment, is received from the connection destination (decision 308). The line is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0163]
On the other hand, when the result of determination 308 is YES, gateway apparatus GW transmits command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the connection destination (step 309), and determines whether signal “250” is received from the connection destination. Check (decision 310).
[0164]
When the result of the determination 310 is YES, it is checked whether or not the signal “250 CONNECT” has been received from the connection destination (determination 311). When the result of the judgment 311 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal “250-FAXGW” representing the extended D-SMTP communication function has been received (decision 312).
[0165]
When the result of the determination 312 is YES, the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 313), and the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP type gateway function is started. Transition.
[0166]
When the result of the judgment 312 is NO, the value of the D-SMTP flag of the user setting information is read (process 314), and it is checked whether or not the D-SMTP communication operation is permitted (judgment 315).
[0167]
When the result of the determination 315 is YES, with the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” set in the field of the signal DIS (process 316), the operation shifts to the D-SMTP communication operation. If the result of determination 315 is NO, the process proceeds to step 306, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0168]
When the result of the determination 311 is NO, the T.D. The value of the T.37 flag is read (process 317). It is checked whether the communication operation of the communication function 37 is permitted (decision 318).
[0169]
If the result of decision 318 is YES, T.P. Since the communication operation is performed, the fixed information having the contents described above is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 315). The operation shifts to 37 communication operation. If the result of determination 318 is NO, the process proceeds to step 306, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0170]
If the result of determination 310 is NO, since the connection destination does not have the ESMTP communication function, an SMTP command “HELO” is transmitted to the same connection destination (process 320), and the signal “250” is sent from the connection destination. It is checked whether or not to receive the information (decision 321).
[0171]
When the result of the determination 321 is YES, the processing shifts to step 317, where T.V. It checks whether or not the communication operation of the T.37 communication function is permitted. 37. Perform communication processing, and if not permitted, end with an error.
[0172]
If the result of determination 321 is NO, the process proceeds to step 306, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0173]
Thus, in this case, the communication operation of the communication mode corresponding to the communication function of the connection destination can be appropriately performed according to the setting of the user.
[0174]
FIGS. 15 and 16 show another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN in this case.
[0175]
When the network control device 32 detects an incoming call, the gateway device GW responds to the incoming call (process 401), receives a signal RING (process 402), and receives a destination number by a push button signal (process 403).
[0176]
Next, an e-mail address corresponding to the destination number received in step 403 is acquired with reference to the address conversion table (step 404). At this time, it is checked whether or not the received destination number is registered in the address conversion table (decision 405). (Process 406) The process ends with an error.
[0177]
If the result of the determination 405 is YES when the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW specifies the destination connection destination and requests an SMTP port open (process 407).
[0178]
Then, it is checked whether or not the signal "240", which is an acknowledgment, is received from the connection destination (decision 408). The line is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0179]
On the other hand, when the result of determination 408 is YES, gateway apparatus GW transmits command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the connection destination (processing 409), and determines whether signal “250” is received from the connection destination. Check (decision 410).
[0180]
When the result of the determination 410 is YES, it is checked whether or not the signal “250 CONNECT” has been received from the connection destination (determination 411). When the result of the judgment 411 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal "250-FAXGW" indicating the extended D-SMTP communication function has been received (decision 412).
[0181]
When the result of the determination 412 is YES, the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 413), and the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP type gateway function is started. Transition.
[0182]
When the result of the determination 412 is NO, the value of the D-SMTP flag of the user setting information is read (process 414), and it is checked whether or not the D-SMTP communication operation is permitted (determination 415).
[0183]
When the result of the determination 415 is YES, the capability information obtained by the response signal to the "RCPT TO" is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 416), and the telephone number of the calling facsimile apparatus is further stored. In this state (process 417), a communication operation according to the D-SMTP method is performed (process 418).
[0184]
When the image information transmission is completed, a report representing the communication result at that time is created, the report is converted into image information, a call is made to the telephone number stored in process 417, and the image information obtained by the conversion is obtained. Is transmitted to notify the transmission result to the originating facsimile machine (process 419).
[0185]
If the result of the determination 415 is NO, the process proceeds to step 406, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0186]
If the result of the determination 411 is NO, the T.D. The value of the T.37 flag is read (process 420). It is checked whether the communication operation of the 37 communication function is permitted (decision 421).
[0187]
When the result of determination 421 is YES, T.P. Since the communication operation is performed, the fixed information having the above-described content is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 422), and the telephone number of the calling facsimile apparatus is stored (process 423). The communication operation by the 37 communication function is performed (process 424).
[0188]
Then, when the image information transmission is completed, a report representing the communication result at that time is created, the report is converted into image information, a call is made to the telephone number stored in process 423, and the image information obtained by the conversion is obtained. Is transmitted to notify the transmission result to the originating facsimile machine (process 425). If the result of determination 421 is NO, the process proceeds to step 406, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0189]
When the result of the determination 410 is NO, since the connection destination does not have the ESMTP communication function, an SMTP command “HELO” is transmitted to the same connection destination (processing 426), and the signal “250” is sent from the connection destination. It is checked whether or not to receive (Step 427).
[0190]
When the result of the determination 427 is YES, the flow shifts to step 420, where T.V. It checks whether or not the communication operation of the T.37 communication function is permitted. 37. Perform communication processing, and if not permitted, end with an error.
[0191]
If the result of determination 427 is NO, the process proceeds to step 406, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0192]
Thus, in this case, the communication operation of the communication mode corresponding to the communication function of the connection destination can be appropriately performed according to the setting of the user. Further, since the communication result is notified to the calling-side facsimile apparatus, the communication result can be appropriately notified to the calling-side user.
[0193]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the notification of the transmission result is performed by transmitting the image information. However, the notification may be performed by using an e-mail to the administrator user. In this case, as shown in FIG. 5D, the e-mail address (administrator e-mail address) of the administrator user is registered in advance.
[0194]
FIGS. 15 and 16 show an example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN in this case.
[0195]
When the network control device 32 detects the incoming call, the gateway device GW responds to the incoming call (process 501), receives the signal RING (process 502), and receives the destination number by the push button signal (process 503).
[0196]
Next, an e-mail address corresponding to the destination number received in step 503 is acquired with reference to the address conversion table (step 504). At this time, it is checked whether the received destination number is registered in the address conversion table (decision 505), and if the result of the decision 505 is NO, the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored at that time. (Process 506) The process ends with an error.
[0197]
If the result of the determination 505 is YES when the e-mail address has been properly acquired, the gateway device GW specifies the destination connection destination and requests an SMTP port open (process 507).
[0198]
Then, it is checked whether or not the signal "250", which is an acknowledgment, is received from the connection destination (decision 508). If the result of decision 508 is NO, the process shifts to processing 506, at which time the group 3 facsimile machine GX and The line is disconnected and restored, and the processing ends with an error.
[0199]
On the other hand, when the result of determination 508 is YES, gateway apparatus GW transmits command EHLO, which is an ESMTP start command, to the connection destination (processing 509), and determines whether signal "250" is received from the connection destination. Check (decision 510).
[0200]
When the result of judgment 510 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal “250 CONNECT” has been received from the connection destination (judgment 511). If the result of decision 511 is YES, it is checked whether or not a signal "250-FAXGW" representing the extended D-SMTP communication function has been received (decision 512).
[0201]
When the result of the determination 512 is YES, the capability information obtained by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 513), and the communication operation by the extended D-SMTP type gateway function is started. Transition.
[0202]
If the result of determination 512 is NO, the value of the D-SMTP flag of the user setting information is read (process 514), and it is checked whether or not the D-SMTP communication operation is permitted (determination 515).
[0203]
When the result of the determination 515 is YES, the communication operation by the D-SMTP method is performed with the capability information acquired by the response signal to the “RCPT TO” set in the field of the signal DIS (process 516) (process 517). ).
[0204]
Then, when the transmission of the image information is completed, the administrator mail address is obtained (step 518), a report showing the communication result at that time is created, and the report is sent to the administrator using the electronic mail in step 518. The transmission is sent to the mail address, and the transmission result is notified to the administrator user (process 519).
[0205]
If the result of determination 515 is NO, the process proceeds to step 506, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0206]
If the result of the determination 511 is NO, the T.D. The value of the flag is read (process 520). It is checked whether the communication operation of the 37 communication function is permitted (decision 521).
[0207]
When the result of determination 521 is YES, T.P. Since the communication operation is performed, the fixed information having the contents described above is set in the field of the signal DIS (process 522). The communication operation by the 37 communication function is performed (process 523).
[0208]
Then, when the image information transmission is completed, the administrator mail address is obtained (step 524), a report representing the communication result at that time is created, and the administrator obtains the report using electronic mail in step 524. The transmission is sent to the mail address, and the transmission result is notified to the administrator user (process 525).
[0209]
If the result of determination 521 is NO, the process proceeds to step 506, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0210]
If the result of determination 510 is NO, since the connection destination does not have the ESMTP communication function, an SMTP command “HELO” is transmitted to the same connection destination (processing 526), and the signal “250” is sent from the connection destination. It is checked whether or not to receive (step 527).
[0211]
When the result of determination 527 is YES, control is passed to step 520 and T.V. It checks whether or not the communication operation of the T.37 communication function is permitted. 37. Perform communication processing, and if not permitted, end with an error.
[0212]
If the result of determination 527 is NO, the process proceeds to step 506, at which point the line with the group 3 facsimile machine GX is disconnected and restored, and the process ends with an error.
[0213]
Thus, in this case, the communication operation of the communication mode corresponding to the communication function of the connection destination can be appropriately performed according to the setting of the user. Further, since the communication result is notified to the administrator user by using the electronic mail, the communication result can be appropriately notified to the administrator user.
[0214]
By the way, the present invention is applied not only to the communication system as shown in FIG. 1 but also to a communication system as shown in FIG. 19, for example.
[0215]
That is, in the communication system in this case, the network facsimile machine FX is connected to the Internet INET, and the group 3 facsimile machine GX is connected to the analog public network PSTN. The gateway device GW has a function of connecting the network facsimile device FX of the Internet INET and the group 3 facsimile device GX of the analog public network PSTN to enable mutual communication. The Internet INET is a wide area network that functions as an IP network.
[0216]
The network facsimile machine FX has a facsimile machine function for creating and recording and outputting facsimile image information, and a T.F.R. for exchanging facsimile image information using electronic mail. 37, a D-SMTP communication function, and an extended D-SMTP communication function for performing facsimile communication with a group 3 facsimile apparatus GX of the analog public network PSTN via the gateway apparatus GW. I have.
[0219]
Further, the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX transmits destination information for specifying the destination network facsimile apparatus FX to the gateway when calling the network facsimile apparatus FX using the normal group 3 facsimile communication function and the gateway apparatus GW. A destination notification function for notifying the device GW is provided.
[0218]
The gateway device GW transmits and receives facsimile image information using electronic mail. 37, a D-SMTP communication function, and a gateway function corresponding to the extended D-SMTP method for performing facsimile communication with the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX of the analog public network PSTN.
[0219]
Then, the gateway device GW in the present embodiment can realize the same communication function as in the above-described embodiment.
[0220]
Further, in the above-described embodiment, the group 3 facsimile apparatus using the analog public switched telephone network PSTN is applied as the facsimile apparatus, but the group 3/4 facsimile apparatus using the digital public switched telephone network ISDN is also applied. The present invention can be similarly applied. In this case, as the information for specifying the destination number, an appropriate information element included in the call setup message, for example, a destination subaddress information element of the call setup message can be applied.
[0221]
Note that the present invention can be similarly applied to equivalent communication systems other than the communication system described above.
[0222]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, a network facsimile apparatus provided with an IP network connection means for connecting to an IP network and a network gateway apparatus provided with a public network connection means for connecting to a public network Facsimile communication between the network facsimile apparatus connected to the public network and the G3 / G4 facsimile apparatus connected to the public network. An effect is obtained that communication with the device can be appropriately performed.
[0223]
Further, the gateway device also has an effect that the communication operation can be appropriately performed in the communication mode that matches the communication mode of the designated partner terminal.
[0224]
Further, since the gateway device does not perform a communication operation in a communication mode other than the communication mode specified in advance, it is possible to clarify the role assignment and achieve an effect of realizing an appropriate system configuration.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a communication system according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a group 3 facsimile apparatus GX (GX1, GX2) according to one embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a gateway device GW (GW1, GW2).
FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a configuration of a network facsimile machine FX.
FIG. 5 is a schematic diagram showing an example of an address conversion table and the like.
FIG. 6 is a time chart showing an example of an operation (communication mode 1) when transmitting image information from the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 using the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2.
FIG. 7 is a time chart showing an example of an operation (communication mode 1) when transmitting image information from the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 to the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX2 using the gateway apparatuses GW1 and GW2 (continued).
FIG. 8 is a time chart showing an example of an operation (communication mode 2) when the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits image information to the network facsimile apparatus FX using the gateway apparatus GW1.
FIG. 9 is a time chart showing an example of an operation (communication mode 3) when the group 3 facsimile apparatus GX1 transmits image information to the SMTP server apparatus MS using the gateway apparatus GW1.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN (continued).
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing still another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is made from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart (continued) showing still another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing still another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 16 is a flowchart (continued) showing still another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN.
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing another example of the operation of the gateway device GW when a call is originated from the analog public network PSTN (continued).
FIG. 19 is a block diagram showing a communication system according to another embodiment of the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
FX network facsimile machine
GW, GW1, GW2 Gateway device
GX, GX1, GX2 Group 3 facsimile machine

Claims (5)

IP network connection means for connecting to the IP network;
A public network connection means for connecting to the public network,
Protocol conversion means for performing facsimile communication between a network facsimile device connected to an IP network and a facsimile device connected to a public network in real time using an electronic mail protocol;
A network gateway device comprising communication control means for determining a communication mode usable by a communication partner terminal and performing a communication operation in the determined communication mode. IP network connection means for connecting to the IP network;
A public network connection means for connecting to the public network,
Protocol conversion means for performing facsimile communication between a network facsimile device connected to an IP network and a facsimile device connected to a public network in real time using an electronic mail protocol;
The communication partner terminal determines whether any of the extended D-SMTP communication mode, the D-SMTP communication mode, or the e-mail communication mode is available, and performs the communication operation in the determined communication mode. A network gateway device comprising communication control means. IP network connection means for connecting to the IP network;
A public network connection means for connecting to the public network,
Protocol conversion means for performing facsimile communication between a network facsimile device connected to an IP network and a facsimile device connected to a public network in real time using an electronic mail protocol;
It is determined whether or not the communication partner terminal can use the extended D-SMTP communication mode. If not, the communication operation is terminated with an error. A network gateway device comprising communication control means for performing the following. IP network connection means for connecting to the IP network;
A public network connection means for connecting to the public network,
Protocol conversion means for performing facsimile communication between a network facsimile device connected to an IP network and a facsimile device connected to a public network in real time using an electronic mail protocol;
User setting information storage means storing communication modes usable by user setting;
It is determined whether or not the communication partner terminal can use the extended D-SMTP communication mode. If the communication partner terminal can use the extended D-SMTP communication mode, the communication operation is performed. A communication control unit that checks whether or not the communication mode is stored as an available communication mode in the information storage unit and performs a communication operation in the communication mode when the communication mode is stored as an available communication mode; A network gateway device characterized by the above-mentioned. 5. The network gateway device according to claim 1, further comprising a communication result notifying unit that notifies a communication result to a user.

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