JP2005084570A - Consumable management processing method and apparatus for information processing system and charging management processing method and apparatus, and information processing system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable the charging processing and consumable processing management adapted to a combination state of devices in an image forming apparatus constituted so that the devices can be replaced. <P>SOLUTION: A device information acquiring section 302 acquires respective consumable charging configurations J9 of the devices actually constituting the system and apparatus and informs a consumable charging management processing section 360 of such configurations. An information presentation control section 366 refers to the consumable charging configurations J9, determines the fundamental information for the purposes of the charging management processing and the consumable management and stores the information in the consumable charging management storage section 364. When the output processing based on a user instruction is executed, the payment collection processing meeting the output processing is executed cooperatively with a coin feeding machine 238. Also, the use conditions relating to the consumables, such as the residual amount of toner, the run-out of paper sheets, and the use time of a photoreceptor, are managed cooperatively with a management center 9. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2005,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to a method and apparatus for performing consumables management and billing management when a system or apparatus is configured by a combination of functional modules (devices), and a system having the functions of these apparatuses.

  Image forming apparatuses having a printing function (function of forming an image on a predetermined recording medium) such as a printer, a copying machine, a facsimile machine, or a multifunction machine having these functions in combination are used in various fields. ing. Also, today, image forming apparatuses are colorized and are used as various expression means for users. For example, a color page printer apparatus using an electrophotographic process (xerography) has attracted attention in terms of high quality image quality or high speed printing.

  An important goal in conventional digital image forming apparatuses has been to build the most affordable system with the performance necessary to process large amounts of data at the time of design. As a result of such a design process and thought process, we were able to produce a digital image forming apparatus at the lowest possible price, but the digital image forming apparatus can be easily changed or expanded. It was difficult to do.

  For example, most of the circuits constituting the image forming apparatus are accommodated on a single circuit board, and the processing control mechanism is composed of almost one unit. In this configuration, when dealing with high speed, high performance, and multi-functionality, even if the change is for some circuits, each time the circuit board is replaced, A design change (pattern layout change) is required, and as a result, there is a problem that a development cost and a development period are required.

  For example, based on a conventional digital copying machine, a so-called multiple-function image processing device (also referred to as a multi-function machine) having functions other than a copying function has been proposed. For example, another function that may be required in a digital copying machine is a function (network scanner function) that gives a read image obtained from a scanner to a personal computer or a network. In addition, there is a function (printer function) that uses a digital copying machine as a printer to print an image obtained from a computer or a computer network. It is also conceivable that a digital copying machine can be used as a facsimile apparatus.

  On the other hand, in order to execute the additional functions in the conventional digital copying machine, an additional controller such as a microprocessor is required because of the demand for making the basic price of the digital copying machine as low as possible. For example, when a network scanner function, a printer function, or a facsimile transmission / reception function is added to a conventional digital copying machine, a controller that realizes these new functions needs to be added to the digital copying machine. The controller that implements this new function will include basic hardware and software functions and its own processor. This is because a processor used in the digital copy function is not generally intended to execute processing for a new function.

  Therefore, to realize a new function, it is necessary to add a new control device or controller card that allows hardware and software to execute an additional function. However, in this case, system components such as an additional relatively expensive microprocessor and a corresponding program storage memory are duplicated. Furthermore, adding components requires the addition of tightly integrated hardware and software, so the functionality of the added components is not flexible.

  As a new approach to realizing a new architecture for digital copiers or multi-function peripherals for such problems, low cost using a PCI (Peripheral Component Interconnect) bus as well as computer systems such as personal computers. It is also considered to adopt a scalable architecture (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

JP 2000-151878 A

  In the technique described in Patent Document 1, a processor, a memory system connected to the processor, a scanner, a plotter, a user interface, a plotter, a scanner, and a user interface are connected to the processor, such as a PCI bus. A digital copier is configured with an industry standard bus. By using an industry standard bus such as a PCI bus, readily available computer accessories, peripherals, and any conventional components can be used in a digital copier simply and inexpensively. The CPU can execute processing required by an additional peripheral device or card connected to the standard bus.

  By using the PCI bus (including its mini-PCI, PCI-E, etc.), control commands and image data are placed on a common transmission line called the PCI bus, and bidirectional via this PCI bus. Therefore, it is possible to easily meet the demand for higher performance and multi-functionality of the apparatus.

  However, since the conventional PCI bus transfers data (control command, image data, etc.) in parallel, the number of wires is large and the interface cost is high. As can be seen from the architecture of personal computers, it is necessary to concentrate individual function modules that use the PCI bus on a motherboard with a processor (equivalent to a controller) and a memory system. There is no flexibility in layout, and in reality, it is difficult to respond flexibly to multi-functionality.

  In addition, the conventional PCI bus is difficult to meet the demand for higher speed. As described above, when data is transferred in parallel, data shifts and irregularities occur between the signal lines, and a crosstalk phenomenon occurs in which the signal lines influence the voltage. It is not suitable.

  When a plurality of modules are connected to the PCI bus, an input / output (I / O) address and an IRQ (Interrupt ReQuest) must be assigned to share one PCI bus so as not to compete with other modules. That is, since data must be transferred between modules in a time-sharing manner, high-speed data transfer becomes difficult.

  As described above, in the configuration of the conventional image forming apparatus, it is difficult to meet the demands for high speed, high performance, and multiple functions of the apparatus at low cost, in a short time, or flexibly. .

  Therefore, in order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the applicant of the present application disclosed, for example, PC Express (trademark) in Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2002-272855, 2002-273958, or 2002-275086. ); Hereinafter also referred to as PCI-EX), the controller and the image forming function part (device), which is a function part related to image formation, are detachable, and have a bi-directional and serial communication system or peer-to-peer characteristics. We proposed a new architecture that uses a connection interface to transmit electrical signals between the controller and the device.

  The new architecture proposed in Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-272855 solves the above-mentioned problems of the parallel bus using a large number of signal lines. For example, there is no data shift or skew between the signal lines. Also, no signal crosstalk occurs. Therefore, high-speed and long-distance data transfer is possible, and functional modules can be easily changed or added. This frees you from restrictions on hardware design, increases the degree of freedom in increasing the functionality and speed of image forming devices, and increases the functionality and functionality that were impossible with the extension of the conventional parallel bus. Performance or speedup can be realized easily and at low cost.

  However, if the above-described new architecture proposed by the applicant of the present application is adopted, there is a concern that a new problem may occur due to the easy change and addition of the functional module and the peripheral device (optional device). For example, how to perform consumables management and billing management according to the combination of devices becomes a problem.

  In a conventional image forming apparatus, a set of consumables management and billing management conditions corresponding to a uniquely determined combination of a plurality of devices such as an image capturing unit, an image processing unit, and an image recording unit are prepared. Consumables management and billing management should be executed in accordance with conditions according to this uniquely determined combination. In addition, the system configuration for consumables management and billing management is not complicated because the combination is uniquely determined or limited in the machine configuration.

  However, when the device combination itself becomes free to the user, each device can be changed as needed by the user. Therefore, it is not necessary to prepare a single consumable management or billing management condition. It is not possible to execute consumables management or billing management adapted to the system configuration of the copying machine.

  In other words, the conventional concept of consumables management and billing management cannot cope with a change in device combination. On the other hand, it may be possible to prepare consumables management and billing management conditions in advance for every device combination, but there are countless combinations and it is virtually impossible to adopt this method. is there. Further, even if consumable management and billing management conditions corresponding to an assumed combination of devices are prepared, it is impossible to cope with an unexpected combination. That is, it is difficult to flexibly and easily cope with unexpected combinations.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and can easily cope with the demand for higher speed, higher performance, or multiple functions of the system, and even if there is a change in the combination of devices. An object of the present invention is to provide a method and apparatus capable of executing appropriate consumables management and billing management according to a system of a device to be changed, and an information processing system having consumables management and billing management functions. To do.

  A consumables management processing method according to the present invention is a method for managing the usage status of consumables used in a system or apparatus in a system or apparatus configured by combining replaceable devices. Device information related to the device type is acquired, and based on the acquired device information, the connection status of the device and the usage status of consumables in the connection status are managed.

  The billing management processing method according to the present invention is a method for performing billing processing according to the use of the system or apparatus in a system or apparatus configured by combining replaceable devices. Device information related to the type is acquired, and on the basis of the acquired device information, a charging process is performed according to the connection state of the device and the use in the connection state.

  A consumables management processing apparatus according to the present invention is an apparatus suitable for carrying out the consumables management processing method according to the present invention, and includes a device information acquisition unit that acquires device information related to a device type. Based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit, a consumables management processing unit that manages the connection status of devices and the usage status of consumables in the connection status is provided.

  A billing management processing device according to the present invention is a device suitable for implementing the billing management processing method according to the present invention, and includes a device information acquisition unit that acquires device information related to a device type. Based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit, a device connection state and a charge management processing unit that performs a charge process according to use in the connection state are provided.

  The invention described in the dependent claims defines further advantageous specific examples of the consumable item management processing device and the charge management processing device according to the present invention. For example, an apparatus that serves as both the consumable management processing apparatus and the charge management processing apparatus according to the present invention can be extracted as an invention.

  In addition, when performing consumables management processing and billing management processing, there is a mode in which device information is acquired from the device every time the user uses it. Instead, a basis for managing the usage status of consumables is available. A consumable information storage unit for storing information or a charging information storage unit for storing basic information for performing charging processing is provided. When used by a user, the basic information stored in these information storage units and device connection The amount of consumables used and the value of the consumables should be determined based on the usage under the condition.

  An information processing system according to the present invention includes an information processing function unit that is a functional part that performs information processing instructed by a client and that can be exchanged for the apparatus main body, and an information processing function that is mounted on the apparatus main body. Interface unit for interfacing with an operation control unit for controlling the operation of the unit, processing target data input / output to / from the information processing function unit, and control command data for the operation control unit to control the operation of the information processing function unit A consumables management processing device according to the present invention for managing the usage status of consumables used in the system, or a billing management processing device according to the present invention for performing billing processing according to the use of the system, It was supposed to be equipped with.

  In the information processing system according to the present invention, the connection interface unit places the processing target data and the control command data on a common transmission line, and conforms to a standard such as PC-I Express (Peer to 1). (Peer) connection form is preferable.

  In the above, the information processing system may include a functional part related to image formation as an information processing function unit. In this case, the information processing system is effectively an image forming system (or apparatus). The functional part related to image formation is not only a functional part that performs some processing on an image or image data, but also to the other functional part without performing any processing on the image data received from one functional part. Those that only transfer and those that record (write or store) image data received from other functional parts on a recording medium that electronically stores data are also included in the functional parts related to image formation of the present application.

  For example, an image forming function unit that is a functional part related to image formation includes an image capturing unit that acquires image information by optically reading an image formed on a document, and a predetermined (for example, image capturing unit) The image processing unit that performs predetermined image processing on the image information, and the image on a predetermined recording medium based on predetermined (for example, processed image processing by the image processing unit) image information As long as it includes at least one of the image forming units (image recording units) to be formed.

  In the above configuration according to the present invention, when a system or apparatus is actually configured by combining devices, device information related to the type of the device is acquired from the actual device to be connected. The billing management process and consumables management adapted to the actual device connection state are executed.

  If necessary, the device information is referenced to determine basic information for billing management processing and consumables management, and the basic information is stored in the information storage unit (data storage unit). Based on the basic information stored in the storage unit and the use under the device connection state, the usage amount and the usage price of the consumables are determined.

  In other words, according to the present invention, device information related to the device type is obtained from the actual devices constituting the system or apparatus, and the device information is referred to, and charging is performed according to the actual device connection state. Determine basic information for management and consumable management. This makes it possible to execute billing management processing and consumable management according to the actual device combination.

  Even if it is possible for the user to easily change the device configuration without going through a specialist worker (service engineer), by acquiring basic information from each image forming function module, A highly reliable system can be constructed for the consumable management system.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

<< System Architecture >>
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of a system architecture of a color copying apparatus to which an information processing system according to the present invention is applied. The color copying apparatus 1 shown in the figure shows a form in the case of being used as a digital copying apparatus or a multifunction machine.

  As shown in the figure, the color copying apparatus 1 is provided with exchangeable connection devices such as the image forming function unit 202 and the user interface unit 14 around the I / O bridge unit 140 on the main body side. The connection device is connected in a star shape with the controller unit 100 as a center by using the standard interface to transmit electrical signals between main devices such as the image forming function unit 202 and the like. Such a configuration of the color copying apparatus 1 is a configuration proposed by the present applicant in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2002-272855, 2002-273958, 2002-275086, and the like. The outline will be described below.

  The color copying apparatus 1 includes a controller unit 100 that is an example of an operation control unit at the center thereof. The controller unit 100 includes a CPU (processor) 110 that is an example of a central processing unit, a memory bridge unit 120, and a main memory that is an example of a volatile storage medium that retains stored contents only when power is supplied. (Main memory unit) 130 is provided. In addition, the controller unit 100 is a non-volatile storage medium (ROM) 132 in which an operating system OS, each functional part related to image processing and image formation, or an application program for controlling peripheral devices is incorporated (installed). (Hereinafter referred to as a non-volatile memory 132). In addition to the operating system OS and application programs, the nonvolatile memory 132 stores apparatus setting conditions (including information on connected devices).

  The CPU 110 is a main controller that executes operation control and data processing of the entire color copying apparatus 1, and executes various programs under the control of the operating system OS. The main memory 130 is a volatile semiconductor memory such as a RAM (random access memory) for loading a program executed by the CPU 110 and using it as a work area.

  The main memory 130 and the nonvolatile memory 132 are connected to the CPU 110 via the memory bridge unit 120. The memory bridge unit 120 incorporates a memory controller that controls input / output of data between the CPU 110 and the main memory 130 and the nonvolatile memory 132 in cooperation with the CPU 110. Data is transferred between the CPU 110 and the main memory 130 in units of predetermined blocks by a DMA (Direct Memory Access) operation.

  The controller unit 100 also includes an I / O bridge unit (Input / Output Bridge) 140 and a switch unit 150 that is an example of a switching unit that switches a communication interface with a peripheral device. The I / O bridge unit 140 incorporates an I / O (input / output) controller that functions in cooperation with the CPU 110. Various add-on boards (driver boards) 250 in which an input / output interface driver is incorporated, such as a LAN board 252 and a 1394 board 254 that adopt an interface with peripheral devices, are additionally connected (add-on) to the switch unit 150. It has become so.

  The I / O bridge unit 140 is directly connected to a USB board 256 that interfaces with a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 2.0 standard device without passing through the switch unit 150. . The LAN board 252 and the 1394 board 254 may also be connected without going through the switch unit 150. In this case, the I / O bridge unit 140 is provided with a peer-to-peer (one-to-one) connection mechanism with the LAN board 252 or the like.

  The controller unit 100 also includes a hard disk device 54. The hard disk device 54 is connected to the I / O bridge unit 140 according to the “Serial ATA” standard, which is an example of a hard disk interface.

  The I / O bridge unit 140 is directly connected to the user interface unit 14 including an operation panel and operation keys for issuing operation instructions to the color copying apparatus 1. The controller unit 100 may optionally be provided with a graphics driver unit (Graphics) 160, which is an example of a user interface driver, as indicated by a dotted line in the figure. In this case, the user interface unit 15 having a large user interface or a maintenance screen is connected to the memory bridge unit 120 via the graphics driver unit 160.

  In the color copying apparatus 1, an image forming function module (image forming function section 202) that causes the color copying apparatus 1 to function as a multifunction peripheral is connected in a star shape with the I / O bridge section 140 of the controller section 100 as a center. Each functional module is distributed. As the image forming function module connected to the I / O bridge unit 140, for example, an image input unit 210 that obtains image data by optically scanning an image with a scanner device (not shown), and an image Image processing system (Image Processing System) that performs predetermined image processing such as color conversion and scaling on image data acquired by the capture unit 210 or image data obtained from a LAN (Local Area Network) or other peripheral devices 220 and an image forming unit 230 that forms an image on a predetermined recording medium based on image data that has been subjected to predetermined image processing by the image processing unit 220.

  Further, the image forming function unit 202 fixes a sheet transfer processing unit (PHM; Paper Handring Module) 232 that performs a transfer process of a printing sheet as an output medium, and an image transferred by the image recording unit 230 to the sheet. There are a fixing processing unit (FuSer Module) 234 and a paper discharge processing unit (Finish Module) 236 that discharges printing paper on which an image is fixed to the outside of the apparatus. In the case of the color copying apparatus 1 having a duplex printing function, a duplex processing unit that reverses a sheet on which an image is formed on one side and feeds the sheet to the image recording unit 230 again is provided.

  On the electrical signal transmission line connecting the functional modules, image data input / output to / from the image forming function unit such as the image capturing unit 210 and control for controlling the operation of the image forming function unit by the controller unit 100. Command data is put in common.

  Note that a recording medium reading unit (memory reader) that reads a semiconductor memory such as a flash memory, a recording medium writing unit that uses a CD-R or CD-RW as a recording medium, or another image forming unit (image recording unit). May be connected to the I / O bridge unit 140 as the expansion unit 240. Each functional module (connected device) such as the image capturing unit 210 and the image processing unit 220 incorporates an application program for executing a function corresponding to each module by software.

  Note that the image forming function unit 202 such as the image capturing unit 210 and the image processing unit 220 may be provided as a board level (module board), or as a functional unit in which the module board is accommodated in a housing. May be. In this specification, the module substrate and the functional unit are collectively referred to as a functional module or (connection) device.

  The controller unit 100 further includes a processing flow control unit 300. The processing flow control unit 300 may be configured to be provided outside the controller unit 100. The processing flow control unit 300 acquires a device configuration J0 related to the operation specification of the connected device from each device, and refers to this device configuration J0 so that the entire system can perform efficient processing between the devices. Control the data path and operation timing.

  The device configuration J0 is information indicating attributes of a connection device that can be attached to and detached from the main body of the color copying apparatus 1 such as an image forming function unit such as the image capturing unit 210, a driver circuit for a peripheral device, or a user interface device. It is.

<User interface function section and consumables management processing function section>
The controller unit 100 also includes a user interface (UI) control unit 350. That is, the controller unit 100, which is an example of the operation control unit, serves as the user interface control unit 350. Note that the present invention is not limited to such a configuration, and the user interface control unit 350 may be removed from the controller unit 100 and configured independently.

  The user interface control unit 350 includes an image forming function unit 202 such as the image capturing unit 210, a peripheral device driver circuit, or a peripheral device that is detachable from the main body of the color copying apparatus 1 such as the user interface units 14 and 15. Information on a user interface function (hereinafter referred to as UI configuration J4) is acquired, a display menu to be presented to the user is determined based on the acquired UI configuration J4, and displayed on a predetermined display device. The function assignment of the operation keys is determined, the user instruction based on the presented display menu and operation keys is received, and each part of the apparatus is controlled.

  Specifically, the user interface control unit 350 acquires a device configuration J0 indicating the device attribute from each connected device, and refers to the UI configuration J4 included in the device configuration J0 to refer to each device. By automatically presenting user interfaces (such as operation keys and display menus) according to the functions, an efficient user interface can be constructed even in a configuration in which a plurality of devices are arbitrarily combined.

  In the UI configuration J4, information related to user interface keys (buttons) and display menus necessary for the functions provided in the device is associated with each function. The UI configuration J4 may be acquired via the processing flow control unit 300.

  The controller unit 100 also includes a consumable item charge management processing unit 360 that performs consumable item management processing including charge management processing. That is, the controller unit 100 which is an example of the operation control unit also serves as the consumable item charge management processing unit 360. The configuration is not limited to this, and the consumables charge management processing unit 360 may be removed from the controller unit 100 and configured independently.

  The consumables billing management processing unit 360 acquires consumables included in the device configuration J0 and information related to the management function of billing processing (price collection processing) (hereinafter referred to as consumable billing configuration J9). Based on the consumables billing configuration J9, consumables management information and billing management information are determined. Further, the consumables charge management processing unit 360 is based on an operation instruction to the color copying apparatus 1 from the user based on the determined consumables management information and charging management information, or the administrator of the color copying apparatus 1 (at a convenience store). When there is an information presentation request from a store clerk or the like, consumables information and billing information are presented on a predetermined display device.

  For example, at a convenience store or the like, a fee processing device such as a coin insertion machine is installed, and a copy service is performed in which a customer himself / herself puts a copy fee into the fee processing device to perform a copying operation. The color copying apparatus 1 cooperates with the fee processing apparatus to manage the input amount and permit or prohibit the operation of the copying apparatus. Here, the color copying apparatus 1 of the present embodiment displays the input amount in cooperation with the fee processing apparatus so as to match the device combination at that time, and the input amount is the minimum amount that can permit the copying operation. In such a case, a copying operation permission signal is sent to the copying apparatus to allow the copying operation. On the other hand, when a copying operation is executed and a signal indicating this is received, a predetermined copy fee is subtracted from the input amount to display the remaining amount, and it is determined whether or not the remaining amount is equal to or higher than a copy fee that allows the copying operation, When the copying operation can be permitted, a copying operation permission signal is sent to the copying apparatus, and when the remaining amount is equal to or less than the copying fee that allows the copying operation, a copying operation prohibition signal is sent to control the copying operation to be prohibited.

  That is, the consumables charge management processing unit 360 acquires the device configuration J0 indicating the device attribute from each connected device, and refers to the consumables charge configuration J9 included in the device configuration J0. By automatically presenting consumable information and billing information according to the function of each device, an efficient consumable management function and billing management function can be constructed even in a configuration in which a plurality of devices are arbitrarily combined.

  Note that the consumables billing configuration J9 is such that guidance contents and error contents necessary for the relationship with the functions provided in the device, and information relating to the display menu are associated with each function provided in the device. . The consumables billing configuration J9 may be obtained via the processing flow control unit 300.

  Here, as a connection interface for connecting each functional part in the controller unit 100, a standard interface adopting peer-to-peer (also referred to as point-to-point) is used. In addition, it is preferable to use a bidirectional and serial communication system.

  Standard interfaces follow legitimate (legal) technical guidelines recognized by non-commercial organizations such as IEEE and JIS (Japanese Industrial Standards) or government organizations (public standards bodies). It should also be a public interface used to establish uniformity in the area of hardware or software development. In addition to such public interfaces, private standard interfaces compiled by private organizations and single companies, so-called industry standard interfaces (industrial standard interfaces) and de facto industry standard interfaces, Also good.

  In any case, the standard interface may be a connection interface that satisfies a certain standard. For example, hardware development or software that occurs when a company or product develops a product or philosophy, and deviations from the standard, through success and imitation, cause compatibility problems or become widely used to limit marketability De facto technical guidelines on development (informal standards) may be employed as the standard interface of this embodiment.

  In the present embodiment, specifically, the standard interface is preferably PCI-EX (PC Express) which is an example of the PCI standard. Here, “PCI-EX” was proposed by Intel Corporation in the United States, and today, PCI-SIG / SIG; Special Interest Group; non-profit by companies gathered for the spread of PCI This is a serial transfer interface originally called “3GIO (abbreviation of 3rd Generation I / O)”.

  In addition, in this specification, the definition of PCI-EX is defined as the PCI-EX standard draft that has been studied by PCI-SIG at the time of this specification (the first standard proposal was a group member on July 23, 2002). In addition, PCI-EX and its revised version that will be officially approved later, or those that will be approved as an extended standard or a higher standard later. In addition, any bus corresponding to a PCI-EX compatible card or interface can be considered a PCI-EX.

  This "PCI-EX" has been proposed as a new standard for connecting parts and peripheral devices inside a personal computer, and mainly uses I / O ( It was developed to improve the bandwidth of (Input / Output). If the color copying apparatus 1 is configured by applying PCI-EX, it is possible to reduce interface costs between functional modules, simplify wiring, speed up data transfer, or reduce development man-hours.

  The serial interface is a transmission interface that sequentially transmits data bit by bit using a single signal line. As a communication method of this serial interface, there are, for example, RS-232C, RS-422, IrDA, USB, IEEE 1394, fiber channel, etc. as those adopted in many personal computers, portable information terminals or peripheral devices. PCI-EX has a much higher communication speed than these. Therefore, by configuring the color copying apparatus 1 using PCI-EX, a system capable of handling high-speed processing can be constructed.

  In the present embodiment, a preferable connection interface unit for applying PCI-EX is between the memory bridge unit 120 and the I / O bridge unit 140, as shown by a thick solid line in FIG. Between the switch unit 150, between the switch unit 150 and the add-on board 250 (for example, the LAN board 152 or the 1394 board 254), the I / O bridge unit 140, the image capturing unit 210, the image processing unit 220, and the image accumulation processing unit. 222, or an image forming function unit 202 such as an image forming unit (image recording unit) 230.

  Further, the present invention may be applied between the I / O bridge unit 140 and the user interface unit 14 including an operation panel and operation keys, or between the memory bridge unit 120 and the graphics driver unit 160. When connecting the expansion unit 240 to the controller unit 100 (for example, the I / O bridge unit 140), PCI-EX may be applied to the expansion unit 240. Of course, the example shown in FIG. 1 is merely an example, and PCI-EX can be applied to other connection interfaces.

  A user interface driver 162 indicated by a dotted line in the figure may be arranged between the user interface unit 14 including the operation panel and operation keys and the I / O bridge unit 140. In this case, at least one of between the user interface (U / I) driver 162 and the I / O bridge unit 140 and between the graphics driver unit 160 and the user interface device such as the operation panel 14 or the operation key 16 ( In one case, the I / O bridge 140 side is preferable) may be connected by PCI-EX.

  In the color copying apparatus 1, the controller unit 100 includes hardware parts such as a copying function and a printing function, such as an image capturing unit 210, an image processing unit 220, an image storage or image forming unit (image recording unit) 230. With regard to the interconnection of image data input / output systems, it is necessary to continuously manage a large amount of data flowing between the devices at the same time, and to control each device so as to perform functions such as a copying machine and a printer. If high speed processing is required, the machine cycle must be increased. In this case, various data flows such as image data and control command data can be applied to increase the speed of the CPU 110 and the main memory 130, applications that require a large amount of calculation, and improved connectivity (connectivity). Speed (internal bandwidth) needs to be increased. This increase in speed was difficult when using a parallel bus.

  On the other hand, the serial interface, which is a characteristic part of PCI-EX, can reduce the number of wires and interface cost compared to a parallel interface using a plurality of signal lines, and can reduce data costs between signal lines. There is no deviation or unevenness (skew), and the crosstalk phenomenon in which the signal lines influence the voltage does not occur. It is no longer necessary to synchronize data required in the case of the parallel communication method, and the processing of the functional part related to image formation can be accelerated in accordance with the improvement of the clock of the CPU constituting the controller.

  In addition, by using peer-to-peer connection like PCI-EX, the transmission line can be exclusively used for data transfer instead of time division. For example, by connecting each connected device to the controller unit 100 (specifically, the I / O bridge unit 140) by “peer-to-peer” connection, image data or the like between the I / O bridge unit 140 and each connected device can be obtained. Control signals are always input and output.

  In this way, the serial interface and peer-to-peer connection are suitable for high-speed and long-distance data transfer, and the data flow speed of image data, control command data, etc. is increased by using it for the system architecture of the image forming apparatus. It can be realized at low cost and easily. High-speed and long-distance data transfer is possible, and in addition, functional modules (devices) can be easily rearranged, and the degree of freedom in increasing the functionality and speed of the image forming apparatus is increased. Since functional portions related to image formation can be processed at high speed, the color copying apparatus 1 with improved system throughput can be realized.

  Further, the color copying apparatus 1 can be substantially made as one computer, and networking is facilitated. In addition, if an operating system OS and application programs for controlling each functional part or peripheral device related to image formation are incorporated in the controller unit, the versatility, applicability, expandability, or Share resources. In addition, from these facts, it is easy for a device manufacturer and easy to use for a user.

  For example, in order to improve performance, increase functionality, or speed by changing the version of functional modules (including not only hardware but also software) and changing the combination of functional modules, according to those changes, By simply changing the application program installed in the controller unit, the function module after the change can be appropriately controlled and used. Even if the version is upgraded or the combination of the function modules is changed, the connection configuration of the function modules to the controller unit does not change. Therefore, it is easy to update the application program in accordance with those changes.

  In addition, by connecting each functional block using a standard interface such as PCI-EX, a data transfer interface between the copying apparatus and the client terminal can be a general-purpose standard such as a wired LAN or IEEE1394. . Since the controller unit can be configured in the same manner as the motherboard of a personal computer, the color copying apparatus 1 can be configured by diverting inexpensive parts in the personal computer market. When a standard interface such as PCI-EX is adopted in the basic architecture of the color copying apparatus 1, it is possible to easily use computer accessories and peripheral devices that are readily available in a digital copying apparatus or the like.

  In addition, by connecting each functional block using a standard interface such as PCI-EX, there are no restrictions on electrical design including motherboard channels, and the degree of freedom of hardware H / W (electric circuit) layout Increase independence. Therefore, it is possible to easily and inexpensively realize higher functions and higher speeds, which are free from hardware design restrictions and are impossible on conventional extension lines of parallel buses. For example, a functional part (device) related to image formation such as an image capturing unit, an image processing unit, or an image forming unit (image recording unit) is mounted on a printed circuit board different from the printed circuit board on which the controller unit is mounted. For example, it is easy to disperse and dispose each device away from the controller unit 100, which gives flexibility and scalability.

<< Consumables management processing function and billing management processing function >>
On the other hand, if the architecture as described above is adopted, each functional module and peripheral device can be arbitrarily replaced and mounted. Therefore, in the case where each device and the controller can only take a unique combination as in the prior art. New problems that cannot occur can arise. For example, since it is easy for the user to change each image forming function module as necessary, a control unit (such as a method for replacing with a more productive image recording module or a method for connecting a plurality of image recording modules). It is conceivable to adopt various configurations centering on the controller. In this case, the problem is how to perform consumables management and billing management according to the combination of devices. Conventionally, it is difficult to cope with consumables and billing management functions that are performed in a copier configuration in which each functional part and controller (system software) are uniquely determined.

  Therefore, for this countermeasure, as shown in FIG. 1, the color copying apparatus 1 of this embodiment has a consumables charge as a mechanism for performing an appropriate consumable or charge management function according to the combination of devices. A configuration J9 is acquired from each device, and a consumables charge management processing unit 360 that executes a suitable consumables management function and charge management processing function as a whole system with reference to the consumables charge configuration J9 is provided. Yes. Hereinafter, the function of the consumable item charge management processing unit 360 will be described in detail.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating detailed examples of the processing flow control unit 300 and the consumables charge management processing unit 360. This figure shows a control system using a PCI-EX connection interface. In this control system, for example, the device configuration J0 of each connected device is acquired, and a command for controlling the data path route determined based on the device configuration J0 is notified to each device.

  For example, the processing flow control unit 300 is connected to the I / O bridge unit 140 from the connected device via the I / O bridge unit 140, and the connected device not connected to the I / O bridge unit 140 is a memory. The device configuration J0 of each connection device is acquired using a connection interface based on a standard interface, such as via the bridge unit 120. Further, when the processing flow control unit 300 notifies the connected device of control command data for controlling each device so as to perform efficient processing as the entire system based on the device configuration J0 of each connected device. In addition, a connection interface using a standard interface is used. Further, the processing flow control unit 300 passes the UI configuration J4 included in the device configuration J0 to the user interface control unit 350 and the consumable item charging configuration J9 to the consumable item charging management processing unit 360, respectively. .

  When the user interface control unit 350 presents a user interface (such as an operation key or a display menu) corresponding to each device based on the UI configuration J4 of each connected device, the user interface control unit 350, for example, displays the screen data of the display menu. The connection interface using the standard interface is also used for sending messages and accepting instructions from users. Similarly, the consumables charge management processing unit 360 uses the consumables charge configuration J9 of each connected device (particularly the image recording unit 230, the paper feed processing unit 232, or the paper discharge processing unit 236) according to each device. When presenting product information and billing information on a predetermined display device, a connection interface using a standard interface is used.

  Specifically, first, the processing flow control unit 300 is a device information acquisition unit 302 that acquires, from each connected device, a device configuration J0 that is information indicating an attribute of the connected device and information related to the operation specifications of the connected device. (An example of an image processing function information acquisition unit) and a user instruction reception control unit that receives an operation condition according to a user instruction via a soft key or a hardware (mechanical) operation key on a display menu presented on the display device 304 (an example of an operation condition acquisition unit).

  Further, the processing flow control unit 300 determines the operation timing of each unit so that the operation of each function in accordance with the user instruction is performed in the shortest time, and controls the device so that each unit operates at the determined timing, A data path control unit 308 that controls a path route of image data so that an operation according to a user instruction is efficiently performed based on the image processing function information J6 acquired by the information acquisition unit 302;

  The device information acquisition unit 302 is arbitrarily attached to and detached from the main body of the color copying apparatus 1 such as an image forming function unit such as the image capturing unit 210, a driver circuit for a peripheral device, or the user interface unit 14 under the control of the CPU 110. Each of the connected devices includes a UI configuration J4 and a consumables billing configuration J9 using PCI-EX that forms a connection interface between the connected devices and the I / O bridge unit 140 or the memory bridge unit 120. Get the device configuration J0 of the device. Note that the device information acquisition unit 302 also acquires the UI configuration J4 and the consumables charging configuration J9 for devices such as the controller unit 100 and the user interface unit 14 that are substantially fixedly attached to the apparatus.

  Of the various pieces of information included in the acquired device configuration J0, the device information acquisition unit 302 uses the user interface control unit 350 for the UI configuration J4 and consumables charge management processing for the consumables charge configuration J9. The unit 360 is notified of each.

  Although not shown, the user interface control unit 350 includes a functional part for automatically presenting operation keys, display menus, and the like corresponding to the functions of each device with reference to the UI configuration J4. For example, a UI function information acquisition unit that acquires a UI configuration J4 from each connected device, and a basic display pattern storage unit that stores a basic display pattern in which all buttons necessary for all possible combinations are stored. Prepare.

  In addition, the user interface corresponding to the operation mode corresponding to the combination of the connected devices and the function of each connected device is determined, and the determined user interface is reflected using the basic display pattern stored in the basic display pattern storage unit. A display menu generation unit that generates a display menu including software keys (software switches) and presents the display menu to a predetermined display device, and software keys and hardware (mechanical) operation keys on the display menu presented to the display device And a user instruction reception control unit that operates the apparatus (the functional units of the main body and the connected device) according to the instruction.

  The user interface control unit 350 operates in cooperation with each other so that an accurate and efficient user interface is constructed even in a configuration in which a plurality of devices are arbitrarily combined. Note that the details of the configuration and functions of the user interface control unit 350 may be referred to the architecture proposed by the present applicant in Japanese Patent Application No. 2002-275085.

  The consumable item charge management processing unit 360 includes a consumable item charge information acquisition unit 362 that acquires the consumable item charge configuration J9 related to the consumable item management function and the charge management function from each connected device via the device information acquisition unit 302, and color copying. And a consumables billing information storage unit 364 for storing information on consumables (for example, paper and toner remaining amount) of the apparatus 1 and basic data on apparatus usage fees (including copy output charges). The consumable item charge management processing unit 360 includes an information presentation control unit 366 and a user instruction reception control unit 368. The user instruction reception control unit 368 may also be used as the user instruction reception control unit 304 of the processing flow control unit 300.

  In the configuration of the present embodiment, the consumables charge management processing unit 360 that is a main part for executing the consumables management process and the charge management process is provided in the controller unit 100 (that is, the color copying apparatus 1). It becomes a mechanism for executing such management on one side. That is, the color copying apparatus 1 has the function of a consumables charge management device 5 (a combination of a consumables management processing device and a charge management processing device). The consumables charge management apparatus 5 may be separated from the controller unit 100 (that is, the color copying apparatus 1) to be a dedicated apparatus for executing the consumables management process and the charge management process.

  Based on the consumable billing configuration J9 acquired by the consumables billing information acquisition unit 362, the information presentation control unit 366 manages consumables and charges corresponding to the operation mode corresponding to the combination of connected devices and the function of each connected device. The basic information of the collection process is determined, and the determined basic information is stored in the consumables billing information storage unit 364 in association with a function list or the like. When the user operates the color copying apparatus 1 and outputs it to a predetermined size sheet with a predetermined specification (for example, monochrome / color), the billing information is immediately presented on the display unit of the coin insertion machine 238, or the color copying apparatus 1 to prepare information for notification to a management center 9 connected to the network 1 in advance.

  The basic information of consumables management and price collection processing adapted to the device connection state stored in the consumables billing information storage unit 364 can be updated as appropriate according to the device connection state connected to the controller unit 100. For example, the actual device connection status such as the paper size prepared in the tray of the paper feed processing unit 232 provided as the image forming function unit 202 and whether the image recording unit 230 is a monochrome compatible device or a color compatible device. Register the module function information below. In addition, information indicating the current usage status of consumables such as the remaining toner amount and the usage time of the photoconductor under the actual device connection status is also registered.

  The user interface control unit 350 receives an output instruction by a soft key or hardware (mechanical) on a display menu presented on the display device of the user interface unit 14 via the user instruction reception control unit 304, and a timing control unit 306 is notified. At this time, an instruction such as the output paper size, the number of output sheets, and monochrome / color output is accepted. The user interface control unit 350 notifies the information presentation control unit 366 of the consumable item charge management processing unit 360 of these pieces of information.

  The information presentation control unit 366 receives information on whether or not the output process has been normally completed in the image recording unit 230 and the like, and executes a billing process corresponding to the output process in conjunction with the coin insertion machine 238. Further, when the remaining amount of toner becomes insufficient during the use of the apparatus, the information presentation control unit 366 notifies the management center 9 of the information. Alternatively, the paper usage amount is notified to the management center 9. In response to this, the management center 9 takes steps to replenish consumables so that toner shortage and paper shortage do not occur locally.

  That is, the consumable item charge management processing unit 360 refers to the consumable item charge configuration J9 included in the device configuration J0 indicating the device attribute from each connected device, and responds to each device connection state constituting the apparatus. The basic information of consumables management and billing management is stored in advance in the consumables billing information storage unit 364, and when the user operates the device, the adaptive processing is performed in cooperation with the coin insertion machine 238 and the management center 9. Work and execute. Thereby, even in a configuration in which a plurality of devices are arbitrarily combined, a consumables management function and a billing processing function that conform to the actual device connection state are efficiently realized.

  In addition, even in a configuration in which a plurality of devices are arbitrarily combined, an accurate and efficient user interface is constructed by the user interface control unit 350, and an actual device combination is obtained by linking with user instructions based on this user interface. It is possible to realize an accurate consumable management function and billing processing function that conforms to For example, even if the user interface and the charging process conditions are initially determined in a state where the color image recording unit 230 is connected, when the color image recording unit 230 is switched to the monochrome image recording unit 230, Since the user interface and the accounting process conditions are determined, an appropriate user instruction can be received and an appropriate accounting process can be performed, and there is no inconvenience to the user.

<< Configuration of connected device (main part) >>
FIG. 3 is a functional block diagram focusing on the power supply circuit system provided in each connected device and the notification of the device configuration J0 to the main body. As shown in the figure, each connected device is provided with a mechanism for notifying the controller unit 100 (the processing flow control unit 300) of the device configuration J0 of the connected device under the control of the controller unit 100. This is because the controller unit 100 determines the function information of the devices connected to the color copying apparatus 1 and constructs a consumable management system or billing management system corresponding to the actual connection module.

  For example, the power supply circuit 400 is supplied with power of a predetermined voltage (UNSW) from a system power supply unit (not shown) when the main power supply of the color copying apparatus 1 is turned on, and the main power supply of the system is turned on. A constantly operating part 402 that is a function part that always operates as much as possible, a switching power supply 404 that generates a stabilized secondary voltage by receiving a power supply (UNSW) of a predetermined voltage from the system power supply part, and power supply from the switching power supply 404 And a switch operating unit 406 which is a functional part that operates in response to the operation.

  In the illustrated example, the switch operating unit 406 includes a power saving system PW4 and PW5 in addition to a functional part that operates by receiving the supply of PW1 to PW3 among the SW systems PW1 to PW5 that are power outputs of the switching power supply 404. The power saving unit 407 operates in response to the supply from. The constantly operating unit 402 is provided with, for example, a device system control unit that controls each unit in the connected device, a transmission / reception circuit that forms a connection interface unit using PCI-EX, and the like.

  In addition, in response to a request from the processing flow control unit 300 on the main body side, information storage that holds a device configuration J0 including a power supply configuration J1, a UI configuration J4, an image processing function information J6, or a consumables charging configuration J9. Functions of a device information notifying unit for notifying each unit and each information are also provided. For example, the device system control unit is provided with a non-volatile memory as the information storage unit 403, and in a predetermined storage area (configuration register) of this memory is information indicating the attributes of each connected device, A device configuration (system information unique to the connected device) J0 related to the operation specification is recorded.

  For example, when the connected device is a scanner (image capturing unit 210), the reading resolution, effective image size, determination result calculation time for various document detection functions, process speed, scanning start command to actual data transmission The image quality parameter setting method and detailed operation specifications for each model such as time are recorded as the image processing function information J6. In addition, in the device configuration (system information) J0, a power supply configuration J1 that is information on the power consumption (either a rated value or a maximum value) of the connected device is also recorded. When the power consumption of the connected device differs depending on the operation state of the connected device, the device configuration J0 for each operation state is recorded. Further, in the device configuration J0, for example, information related to the consumables of the device and charge collection processing (remaining toner amount, corresponding paper size and monochrome / color functions) are recorded as the consumables charging configuration J9. .

<< Consumables management processing procedure and accounting management processing procedure >>
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the charge management processing procedure and the consumable management processing procedure in the consumables charge management processing unit 360. For example, when the main switch is turned on with each device such as the image capturing unit 210, the image processing unit 220, and the image recording unit 230 connected to the controller unit 100 (S100-YES), the entire apparatus is first powered on. Reset. Thereafter, a system power supply unit (not shown) commonly supplies a predetermined voltage power supply (UNSW) to each unit (controller unit 100 and each device) of the color copying apparatus 1 (S102). In response, first, the power management function unit of the controller unit 100 sets the SW system control signal CT1 and the power save control signal CT2 to off (S104). Therefore, only the operation unit 402 always operates for each connected device.

  Next, the CPU 110 (processing flow control unit 300) of the controller unit 100 reads the value of the configuration register of each connected device (S108, S110). Note that the value of the configuration register of each device is reacquired not only when the power is turned on but also when the device connection is changed while the main power is on (hot and plug) (S109-YES). Also, when a request is received from an external device such as a download personal computer, the value of the configuration register of each device may be reacquired.

  Thereby, the driver and utility of each device are prepared (registered) in the controller unit 100. For example, when the value of the configuration register from the scanner is read, the power supply configuration J1 related to the power consumption by the process speed (the value at the time of standby, the maximum operation value, etc.) is acquired and registered as a utility of the scanner. Also, when the value of the configuration register is read from the image recording unit 230, consumables management and billing management such as remaining toner and device correspondence information (processing paper size and monochrome / color type) as utilities of the print output function unit Consumables billing configuration J9 is acquired and registered. Furthermore, the FCOT-related information J5 related to the processing time FCOT and the image processing function for determining the path route and the operation sequence of the image data so that the operation according to the user instruction such as the reading resolution and the effective image size can be efficiently performed. Information J6 and further information (UI configuration J4) related to keys (buttons) and menus necessary for operating the function are acquired and registered.

  The device configuration J0 once fetched may be stored in the nonvolatile memory 132 or the hard disk device 54 provided in the controller unit 100. When device authentication is performed before reading the device configuration J0 from the connected device in step S111, if the device is already registered in the nonvolatile memory 132, it is not necessary to read the device configuration J0 again.

  The CPU 110 extracts the UI configuration J4 related to the user interface for using the functions of the connected device from the utility information of each individual device, and notifies the user interface control unit 350 of this UI configuration J4. (S112). In response to this, the user interface control unit 350 determines an appropriate user interface for the entire apparatus (S113). Then, the type and layout of buttons (hardware operation keys and software keys presented on the screen) to be prepared on the user interface, menu display, and the like are specified.

  Further, the CPU 110 extracts the consumables billing configuration J9, and notifies the information presentation control unit 366 of the consumables billing management processing unit 360 of this consumables billing configuration J9 (S114). Based on the consumables billing configuration J9, the information presentation control unit 366 determines basic information of consumables management and price collection processing corresponding to the operation mode corresponding to the combination of connected devices and the function of each connected device. Then, it is stored in the consumables billing information storage unit 364 in association with a function list corresponding to the device combination at that time (S115).

  As long as the maximum power consumption of the apparatus is within the range of the maximum rating, the controller unit 100 sets the SW system control signal CT1 to ON for all the connected devices as usual, and the power save control signal CT2 Is turned off to turn on the power of the SW system of all connected devices (S116).

  In addition, the user interface control unit 350 sends image data representing a display menu having a soft key that reflects the determined user interface to a predetermined display device (for example, a display screen of the operation panel 14 or the user interface device 15). (S118). Thereby, an appropriate menu corresponding to the combination of devices and the operation mode is displayed on the display device.

  Although not shown in the figure, when the overall maximum power consumption exceeds the maximum rating, the power management function unit of the controller unit 100 turns on the power of the SW system of all connected devices. The device is maintained in a standby state with low power consumption, and thereafter, the operation mode of each connected device is switched or the operation sequence is controlled so as not to exceed the maximum rating.

  In this way, the power supply of the UNSW system is supplied to the required connection device, and the individual power supply circuit (specifically, the switching power supply 404) is controlled by the control commands CT1 and CT2 on each connection device side, and the combination of devices and the operation mode are controlled. After an appropriate display menu corresponding to the above is displayed on a predetermined display device and an operation key is made functional, a user instruction is accepted via an operation key which is a soft key or a hard key on the display surface (S120). The processing flow control unit 300 controls each unit of the apparatus according to the received user instruction. Receiving this, the connected device performs normal output processing with the processing capability of each (S130).

  When shifting to normal output processing in this way, the timing control unit 306 of the processing flow control unit 300 performs the image quality parameter setting method and operation of the copying apparatus optimized for each device by the device combination at that time. Provide information. For example, according to the user instruction received by the user instruction reception control unit 304, an operation suitable for the entire apparatus (preferably the best / processing time FCOT is the shortest) with reference to the FCOT related information J5 and the image processing function information J6. Start the sequence setting process.

  For example, the timing control unit 306 starts all the connected devices in the processing standby state (S134) with the processing capability of each at the predetermined timing after the transfer after the start button is pressed. A control command (start code; operation start instruction) to be notified is transmitted (S136). Each device operates each functional unit using the start code received from the timing control unit 306 as a trigger (S138).

  In addition, the processing flow control unit 300 monitors the data and communication status between the devices during execution of the apparatus operation after sending a control command to notify all devices to start (S136), and the operation status is abnormal. If there is, the response (feedback control) according to the state is performed. If there is no abnormality, the operating condition is changed until the operating condition is changed, the power saving mode (including standby mode / sleep mode) is set, or the main power is turned off. (S140). When the main power supply is turned off, the system power supply unit stops all power supply (UNSW) except for the always-on system and waits for the main power supply to be turned on again (S140-main SW).

  Note that the processing flow control unit 300 also controls each unit so as to obtain an appropriate processing sequence for the entire apparatus based on the utility information even when recovering from the standby state to the normal mode (S140-return, S120 to S138). . In addition, even when the operation mode is changed, an appropriate user interface is determined for the entire device based on the utility information, and a display menu having soft keys is generated. Alternatively, the function assignment of the hard key is performed, and then a user instruction is accepted to control each part of the apparatus.

  The details of the processing procedure after the transition to the normal processing is not directly related to the present application, and therefore detailed description is omitted (Japanese Patent Application Nos. 2002-273958 and 2002-275085 related to the present applicant). , 2002-275086, etc.).

  On the other hand, in the process of performing the output process based on the user instruction, the consumables charge management processing unit 360 refers to the basic information for the fee collection process specified for registration in the consumables charge information storage unit 364 according to the output mode. An appropriate price collection process (billing process) is executed in conjunction with the coin insertion machine 238 (S150). The price collection process collects a fee for the output process in accordance with the user's instruction, and is similar to the price collection process in a copying machine installed in a convenience store or other stores, for example.

The consumable item charge management processing unit 360 also executes consumable item management such as the remaining amount of toner and the remaining amount of paper (S150). This consumable management is performed based on a maintenance service concluded with the management center 9 in order to prevent the user having the color copying apparatus 1 from running out of toner and running out of paper. Function.
These fee collection processing and consumable management processing are basically the same as those performed in the conventional color copying apparatus 1. The detailed explanation is omitted.

<< Example of device combination, consumables management, and billing management process >>
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration example when the color copying apparatus 1 is configured by combining the controller unit 100 and the image forming function unit 202.

  Initially, as shown in FIG. 5A, the basic configuration includes an image capture unit 210, an image processing unit 220, an image recording unit 230, a paper feed processing unit 232, and a paper discharge processing unit 236. Assume that each image forming function module is configured as a color copying apparatus 1 connected by PCI-EX.

  Here, for example, as shown in FIG. 5B, the user reconstructs the color copying apparatus 1 whose connection destination has been changed to the image recording unit 230b having higher productivity than the image recording unit 230a, that is, the image recording unit 230. If you change the function of. Alternatively, as shown in FIG. 5C, the color copying apparatus 1 to which an image recording unit 230c having a function different from that of the image recording unit 230a (for example, a high-resolution monochrome machine) is added is reconstructed. It is assumed that the function of the recording unit 230 is added.

  On the other hand, it is desirable that a charging counter (not shown) provided in the coin insertion machine 238 distributes charging information to a plurality of modules for the purpose of improving the reliability. For example, depending on whether the image recording unit 230 is a monochrome machine or a color machine, the processing speed, etc., it is necessary to change the charge amount even for the same output size. Further, when the device combination is switched, it is necessary to switch the information on the remaining amount of toner that has been managed so far.

  Therefore, the controller unit 100 according to the present embodiment checks whether the charging information acquired from each image recording unit 230 by the consumables charging management processing unit 360 at the time of starting the apparatus and the charging counter so far, and if there is a mismatch, Perform error detection. Therefore, when a function module is changed or added, error detection is avoided by module basic information (module name, module serial number, etc.) from the changed and added module, and then the billing counter is set to the current device. Can be matched to fit the combination. Similarly, with regard to the consumable item management counter, it is possible to match the consumable item usage status information, such as the remaining toner amount and the photosensitive member usage time, which has been managed so far, so as to match the device combination at that time.

  As mentioned above, although this invention was demonstrated using embodiment, the technical scope of this invention is not limited to the range as described in the said embodiment. Various changes or improvements can be added to the above-described embodiment without departing from the gist of the invention, and embodiments to which such changes or improvements are added are also included in the technical scope of the present invention.

  Further, the above embodiments do not limit the invention according to the claims (claims), and all combinations of features described in the embodiments are not necessarily essential to the solution means of the invention. Absent. The embodiments described above include inventions at various stages, and various inventions can be extracted by appropriately combining a plurality of disclosed constituent elements. Even if some constituent requirements are deleted from all the constituent requirements shown in the embodiment, as long as an effect is obtained, a configuration from which these some constituent requirements are deleted can be extracted as an invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, a standard interface such as PCI-EX is used as a connection interface between the controller unit and the image forming function unit. A connection interface unit adopting any “peer-to-peer” connection mode may be applied. For example, connection specifications based on IEEE 1394, USB 1.1, and USB 2.0 standards can be applied.

  In the above embodiment, the connection with the I / O bridge unit 140 using a standard interface such as PCI-EX is divided into relatively large functional blocks such as the image capturing unit 210 and the image processing unit 220 as functional modules. For example, the image processing unit 220 may be divided into smaller functional blocks such as a color conversion unit and an under color removal unit.

  Further, in the above embodiment, device alignment in the image forming apparatus that forms a visible image on a predetermined recording medium has been described. However, the method of price collection processing and consumable management processing of the above embodiment and the system configuration therefor are as follows. The present invention is not limited to the image forming apparatus, and can be similarly applied to other information processing apparatuses (electronic devices). That is, for a system or apparatus configured by combining a plurality of replaceable devices, the price collection processing method and the consumables management processing method shown in the above embodiment can be similarly applied, and the same You can enjoy the effect. It is not essential that each functional part (device) has a system configuration connected in a star shape. For example, as described in Patent Document 1 (Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2000-151878), even a device or system using a parallel PCI interface uses the price collection processing or consumable management processing method of the above embodiment. Thus, it is possible to apply a technique for executing billing management processing and consumable management suitable for a device combination.

1 is a diagram showing an example of a system architecture of a color copying apparatus to which an information processing system according to the present invention is applied. It is a figure explaining the detailed example of a process flow control part and a consumables charge management process part. It is a functional block diagram which paid its attention to the notification to the main body side of the power supply circuit system and device configuration which are provided in each connection device. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the charge management processing procedure and consumables management processing procedure in a consumable goods charge management processing part. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration when a color copying apparatus is configured by combining a controller unit and an image forming function unit.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Color copying apparatus, 5 ... Consumables charge management apparatus, 100 ... Controller part, 110 ... CPU, 120 ... Memory bridge part, 130 ... Main memory, 132 ... Non-volatile memory, 140 ... I / O bridge part, 150 ... Switch unit 160 ... Graphics driver unit 210 ... Image capture unit 220 ... Image processing unit 222 ... Image storage processing unit 230 ... Image forming unit (image recording unit) 240 ... Expansion unit 250 ... Add-on board 252 ... LAN board, 254 ... 1394 board, 256 ... USB board, 300 ... processing flow control unit, 302 ... device information acquisition unit, 304 ... user instruction reception control unit (operation condition acquisition unit), 306 ... timing control unit, 308: Data path control unit, 350: User interface control unit, 360 ... Consumables charge management processing unit 362 ... consumables billing information acquisition unit, 364 ... consumables billing information storage unit, 366 ... information presentation control unit, 368 ... user instruction receiving control unit

Claims (14)

A method of managing the usage status of consumables used in a system or apparatus that is configured by combining replaceable devices.
Get device information related to the device type,
Based on the acquired device information, a consumables management processing method characterized by managing a connection state of the device and a use state of the consumables in the connection state. In a system or apparatus configured by combining replaceable devices, a method for performing billing processing according to the use of the system or apparatus,
Get device information related to the device type,
Based on the acquired device information, the charging process is performed according to the connection state of the device and the use in the connection state. A device that manages the usage status of consumables used in a system or device that is configured by combining replaceable devices,
A device information acquisition unit for acquiring device information related to the type of the device;
Consumable comprising: a consumable management processing unit that manages a connection state of the device and a usage state of the consumable in the connection state based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit Product management processing device. A consumables information storage unit that holds basic information for managing the usage status of the consumables based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit;
The consumable item management processing unit specifies a use state of the consumable item based on the basic information held in the consumable item information storage unit and a usage amount in a connection state of the device. The consumable item management processing apparatus according to claim 3. An apparatus that performs billing processing according to use of the system or apparatus in a system or apparatus configured by combining replaceable devices,
A device information acquisition unit for acquiring device information related to the type of the device;
A billing management comprising: a billing management processing unit that performs the billing process according to the connection state of the device and the use in the connection state based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit Processing equipment. A charging information storage unit for holding basic information for performing the charging process based on the device information acquired by the device information acquisition unit;
The billing management processing unit determines a usage fee according to the use based on the basic information held in the billing information storage unit and usage in a connection state of the device. 5. The charge management processing device according to 5. An information processing function unit that is a functional part that performs information processing instructed by a client and that can be exchanged for the apparatus main body;
An operation control unit for controlling the operation of the information processing function unit mounted on the apparatus body;
A connection interface unit that takes an interface of data to be processed input / output to / from the information processing function unit and control command data for the operation control unit to control the operation of the information processing function unit;
An information processing system comprising: the consumables management processing device according to claim 3 or 4 for managing a use status of consumables used in the system. An information processing function unit that is a functional part that performs information processing instructed by a client and that can be exchanged for the apparatus main body;
An operation control unit for controlling the operation of the information processing function unit mounted on the apparatus body;
A connection interface unit that takes an interface of data to be processed input / output to / from the information processing function unit and control command data for the operation control unit to control the operation of the information processing function unit;
An information processing system comprising: the charge management processing device according to claim 5 or 6 for performing the charge processing according to use of the system. The information processing system according to claim 7 or 8, further comprising an image recording unit that forms a visible image on a predetermined recording medium based on input image data as one of the information processing function units. As one of the information processing function units, an image capturing unit that reads an image of a document and obtains image data to be processed is provided.
The information processing system according to claim 9, wherein the image recording unit forms a visible image corresponding to the image of the document acquired by the image capturing unit. The connection interface unit places the processing target data and the control command data on a common transmission line, and adopts a one-to-one (Peer to Peer) connection mode for transmitting the processing target data and the control command data. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein the information processing system is one. The information processing system according to claim 11, wherein the connection interface unit is configured to transmit the processing target data and the control command data in a bidirectional and serial communication connection form.   The information processing system according to claim 9, wherein the connection interface unit is a standard interface that satisfies a certain standard. The information processing system according to claim 12, wherein the standard interface is PC Express.

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