JP2008015799A - Communication device and device remote management system - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a communication device for inexpensively and appropriately collecting and transmitting management information necessary for a plurality of devices, and a device remote management system for managing the devices based on the management information. <P>SOLUTION: The remote management system 1 comprises an intermediary device 200 connected to each copying device 100a-100n to be managed. The device 200 acquires management information necessary for the management of each copying device 100a-100n therefrom, compares the acquired management information with the latest management information previously acquired, and transmits only different management information to a central control device CK. Accordingly, the intermediary device 200 transmits the necessary management information while reducing the data volume to be transmitted to the central control device CK, whereby the copying devices 100a-100n can be appropriately managed while reducing the communication traffic and the communication cost. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2008,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a communication device and a device remote management system. More specifically, the present invention relates to a communication device that collects management information necessary for managing a plurality of devices and transmits it to a central management device. The present invention relates to a device remote management system that receives centralized control and centrally manages devices.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in devices such as facsimile machines, copiers, multifunction devices, and printer devices such as OA (Office Automation) devices, in order to facilitate maintenance management of the consumables and maintenance of the devices, the devices and the devices Connected to a central management device such as a service center of the manufacturer by a wired or wireless communication line via a communication device such as a communication adapter connected to the device. Collect various management information such as operating status, presence / absence of failure, etc. via the communication device, accumulate and analyze the collected management information, and various maintenance management, failure repair management, consumables management, etc. Perform management.

  In a remote device management system in which a central management device manages a plurality of devices via a communication device, conventionally, a communication device is generally connected to each connected device at a predetermined timing. The management information is collected from the devices by transmitting a management information (counter value, etc.) collection request and receiving a management information response from each device, and the communication device stores the collected management information in an internal memory or the like. The management information stored in the storage area is transmitted to the central management apparatus at a predetermined time, and the central management apparatus stores the received management information in its own storage area for managing the device. Use.

  Also, in a conventional remote device management system, the central management device requests the communication device to collect management information such as a device counter value at an arbitrary timing, and the communication device acquires the management information of the device to be managed. Then, the management information of all devices to be managed is returned to the central management device.

  Further, in the remote device management system, when an abnormality occurs in the device and an SC (center call signal) is generated, the device centrally manages SC information including management information such as a counter value via a communication device. Sending to the device.

  In the conventional remote device management system, a communication device is provided for each device and communication is performed for each device. However, in recent years, with the spread of networks, devices to be managed are connected to the network. In addition, it is necessary to appropriately acquire management information even when the device is in a dormant state.

  Therefore, the present applicant, first, the image forming apparatus management system in which the data communication apparatus collects management information of a plurality of connected image forming apparatuses at a regular period and an early period before the regular period, and passes them to the central management apparatus, A data communication apparatus and an image forming apparatus management method have been proposed (see Patent Document 1). That is, with this conventional technology, it is possible to collect management information by covering the occurrence of a state that cannot be collected due to the power-off of the device at the regular management information collection timing, by collecting the earlier period before the regular period. Try to collect as much as possible.

JP 2001-147622 A

  However, in the above prior art, more management information can be collected, but the communication data with the central management apparatus increases accordingly, the communication time becomes longer, and it is appropriate while reducing the communication cost. It was necessary to improve the remote management of various devices.

  In other words, the number of management information for managing devices increases, and as the number of target devices increases, the amount of data increases, the communication time increases, the communication cost increases, and the communication line increases. Traffic will also be congested.

  And in the prior art, regardless of whether or not the content of the management information has changed, as much management information as possible is collected and transmitted from all managed devices, Accordingly, there is a problem that the amount of communication data is increased, the communication time is increased, communication traffic on the communication line is not only congested, and the communication cost is increased.

  Therefore, the present invention reduces the load on communication traffic and reduces the communication cost, and appropriately collects management information necessary for managing managed devices and transmits it to the central management device. It is an object of the present invention to provide a communication device and a device remote management system capable of managing devices at high speed.

  The communication device according to the first aspect of the invention is connected to a network to which the device is connected, or is built in or externally connected to each device, and manages the device through a predetermined wired or wireless communication line. In a communication device that is connected to a central management device, acquires predetermined management information necessary for management of the device from each device, and transmits it to the central management device via the communication line, Management information acquisition means for making a management information acquisition request to a device to acquire the management information, and management information storage means for specifying and storing the latest management information acquired from each device by the management information acquisition means A comparison unit that compares the acquired new management information of each device with the management information stored in the management information storage unit, and a management unit that determines that the comparison unit has a difference between the management information By being and a control means for transmitting to the central station only broadcast, it has achieved the above objects.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, there is provided a device remote management system in which a communication device connected to a network to which a device is connected or built in or externally connected to each device and a central management device for managing the device are wired or Connected by a predetermined wireless communication line, the communication apparatus acquires predetermined management information necessary for management of the apparatus from each apparatus, and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus via the communication line. In a device remote management system in which a device manages each device based on the management information, the communication device makes a management information acquisition request to each device at a predetermined collection timing to obtain the management information. Management information acquisition means, management information storage means for identifying and storing the latest management information acquired by the management information acquisition means, new management information for each acquired apparatus, and Comparing means for comparing management information stored in the physical information storage means, and control means for transmitting to the central management device only the management information that the comparing means has determined that there is a difference between the two management information. The above-mentioned purpose is achieved.

  In each of the above cases, for example, as described in claim 3, the communication device collects the management information from each device with the timing for each predetermined period set in advance as the collection timing. Also good.

  For example, as described in claim 4, the communication device may collect the management information from the devices with the timing instructed from the central management device as the collection timing.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 5, the control means, for management information determined by the comparison means that there is no difference between the old and new management information, is only information indicating that there is no change in the management information. May be transmitted to the central management apparatus.

  For example, when a predetermined abnormal state such as a failure occurs, the device transmits a service call to which the management information is added to the central management device via the communication device. The communication device has a service call function, and when the service call is generated from a device, the communication device transmits the service call to the central management device and management information added to the service call by the comparison unit And the management information of the device of the management information storage means, and only the management information that the comparison means determines that there is a difference between the management information is added to the service call and transmitted to the central management device, The central management device determines whether or not management information is added to the service call. When management information is added, only the added management information changes and the others And there is no change for the management information, if not added management information, as there is no change in any of the management information, may perform management of the equipment.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 7, when the communication unit determines that there is no difference between the management information of the devices that have generated the service call, the control unit Only information indicating that there is no change in management information may be added to the service call and transmitted to the central management apparatus.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 8, the device includes a predetermined energy saving mode for reducing power consumption, and when there is a collection request for the management information from the communication device in the energy saving mode, the device is in the energy saving mode. Notifying the communication device of energy saving mode information indicating the existence and the management information, and returning from the energy saving mode, an energy saving mode release call is transmitted to the communication device, and the communication device transmits the received management information and the management information to the communication device. Energy saving mode information is stored in the management information storage means, and for the devices in which the energy saving mode information is stored in the management information storage means, the management information collection request is stopped, and the energy saving mode is transmitted from the device. When a release call is sent, the management information storage means saves the device The Modo information may be deleted.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 9, the communication device has at least the energy saving mode information stored in the management information storage for the device in which the energy saving mode information is stored in the management information storage means. In the transmission of the management information to the central management apparatus after the second time after being stored in the means, the transmission of the management information of the device to the central management apparatus may be stopped.

  Further, for example, as described in claim 10, the device, as the energy saving mode, when the energy saving mode has passed a predetermined time, the device is turned off, and the device is turned on under a predetermined return condition. The communication device may perform a power-on notification, and the communication device may delete the energy saving mode information from the management information storage unit when the power-on notification is received from the device.

  According to the communication apparatus of the present invention, management information necessary for management of the device is acquired from each device to be managed, the acquired management information is compared with the latest management information acquired previously, and the both management Only the management information with different information is transmitted to the central management device that manages the equipment, so the necessary management information can be transmitted while reducing the amount of data transmitted from the communication device to the central management device. Traffic and communication costs can be reduced, and the central management apparatus can appropriately manage the devices.

  Further, according to the device remote management system of the present invention, a communication device connected to or built in each device to be managed acquires management information necessary for managing the device from each device, and the acquired management The information is compared with the latest management information acquired previously, and only the management information that is different between the two management information is transmitted to the central management device that manages the device, so the communication device transmits it to the central management device Necessary management information can be transmitted while reducing the amount of data, communication traffic and communication costs can be reduced, and the central management apparatus can appropriately manage the devices.

  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. In addition, since the Example described below is a suitable Example of this invention, various technically preferable restrictions are attached | subjected, However, The scope of the present invention limits this invention especially in the following description. As long as there is no description of the effect, it is not restricted to these aspects.

  1 to 7 are diagrams showing a first embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention, and FIG. 1 is applied to the first embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention. 1 is a system configuration diagram of a device remote management system 1. FIG.

  Referring to FIG. 1, a device remote management system 1 includes a central management device CK and copying devices 100a to 100n as a plurality of devices that do not include an intermediary device of a customer site KS that is a plurality of customers, and each copying device 100a to 100n. The intermediary apparatus 200 and the copying apparatus with intermediary apparatus 300 are connected by a communication network NW, and a wired or wireless communication line such as a public line or a network such as the Internet is used as the communication network NW.

  The central management device CK is a server device installed in a service center or the like of a device manufacturer or a service provider company, and includes a management database for storing various management data. The management database stores, for each customer, management information such as network device configuration, customer information, and technical information related to devices to be managed at the customer site KS. The network configuration of the customer site KS and the configuration of the devices connected to the network, the device model, model number, delivery date, installation location information, etc. Information that can be done. Customer information consists of, for example, customer name, address, telephone number, FAX number, device administrator, network administrator, etc., and specifies customer and contact information, especially contact information for device administrators and network administrators. Information that can be done. The technical information includes, for example, a model, a machine number, a count value such as the number of printed sheets and the number of scanners, a failure code, an estimated cause, and the like, and is information that can identify to some extent a cause and a measure for a phenomenon of a failed managed device. .

  Each of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as managed devices of the customer site KS is connected by a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and is connected to the mediation apparatus 200. The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n may be connected by connecting the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n in a daisy chain, and the first copying apparatuses 100a to 100n may be connected to the mediation apparatus 200. The intermediary device 200 is connected to the central management device CK via the communication network NW.

  The copying apparatus with an intermediary device 300 incorporates an intermediary device, and is connected to the central management device CK via a communication network NW.

  The central management device CK remotely manages a plurality of copy devices 100a to 100n, which are management target devices, via the mediation device 200, and directly remotely manages the copy device 300 with a mediation device, which is a management target device.

  In order to realize remote management, the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment has a function of transmitting and receiving processing requests and responses to methods of applications to be mounted on each device by RPC (Remote Procedure Call). In order to realize RPC, protocols such as SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol), HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol), and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) can be used.

  In the above connection environment, if there are firewalls between the mediation device 200 and the communication network NW and between the mediation device-equipped copying apparatus 300 and the communication network NW, the central management device CK directly connects the mediation device 200. When a request is transmitted to the copying apparatus 300 with an intermediary apparatus, there is a problem that it is repelled by a firewall. Therefore, when the central management apparatus CK is periodically polled from the intermediary apparatus 200 and the copying apparatus with an intermediary apparatus 300, It is possible to use a policy of placing a request on the HTTP response by utilizing the characteristic that the HTTP response of the firewall can pass.

  Therefore, in the following description, when a request is transmitted from the central management apparatus CK to the intermediary apparatus 200 or the intermediary apparatus-equipped copying apparatus 300, periodic polling is performed from the intermediary apparatus 200 or the intermediary apparatus-equipped copying apparatus 300. After that, it is assumed that the request is transmitted in the HTTP response, and detailed description thereof is omitted.

  The central management device CK has a block configuration as shown in FIG. 2, and includes a control unit 11, an operation terminal 12, a database 13, a communication terminal 14, a modem 15, a proxy server 16, and the like. The modem 15 exchanges a communication protocol with the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n via the communication network NW, in particular, the public line via the intermediary apparatus 200, and is connected to the copying apparatus 300 with the intermediary apparatus. Exchange communication protocols between them and connect. The communication terminal 14 controls the communication of the modem 15 under the control of the control unit 11, and the proxy server 16 copies the intermediary device 200 or the copy devices 100a to 100n and the intermediary device copy when the communication network NW is the Internet. It communicates with the device 300 and performs security management. The operation terminal 12 is an interface for inputting various data by an operator, which includes a keyboard, a mouse, a display, and the like. The database 13 is copied with a parameter storage area 21 for storing various management parameters (management information), management programs, and data input by the operator, which are used for managing managed devices such as the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus 300 with an intermediary apparatus. The counter storage area 22 stores counter values of the apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus 300 with an intermediary apparatus. The control unit 11 includes a microcomputer that is configured by a CPU (Central Processing Unit), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and the like (not shown), and controls the entire central management device CK to control a copying apparatus. The management information (management parameter) receiving function from the copying apparatuses 300a to 100n and the intermediary apparatus is realized, and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus 300 with the intermediary apparatus are managed based on the management information.

  The intermediary device (communication device) 200 has a block configuration as shown in FIG. 3, and includes a CPU 201, an RTC 202, an HDD (hard disk: non-volatile storage medium) 203, an SDRAM (Synchronous Dynamic Random Access Memory) 204, a modem 205, PHY206, RS485I / F207, ROM208 etc. are comprised, and each part is connected by the bus | bath 209. FIG.

  An RTC (real time clock) 202 is an internal clock that includes an oscillator, a frequency divider, and the like and generates a clock signal. The modem 205 exchanges signals with the modem 15 of the central management device CK via a communication network NW, in particular, a public line. The HDD 203 holds firmware for updating the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, and the SDRAM 204 holds various data necessary for the operation of the CPU 201. The PHY 206 is an interface that is connected to the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n via the local network and is connected to the proxy server 16 of the central management apparatus CK via the communication network NW, particularly the Internet. A CE (customer engineer) terminal is connected to the PHY 206, and the CE terminal can display the Web UI of the mediation apparatus 200 through the PHY 206. The RS485 I / F 207 is an interface connected to the PII / F 118 (see FIG. 4) of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. The HDD 203 and / or the SDRAM 204 function as management information storage means for storing various data used in the device remote management processing, particularly management information.

  The intermediary device 200 collects management information such as status information and counter information, firmware version information collection, life / death confirmation (confirmation of failure / non-existence), IP address unknown / changeable connection status with respect to the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. It has a function of transmitting requests such as search, firmware update, command execution and the like in units of methods, and a function of receiving a response to a method from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and notifying the central management apparatus CK. Further, the intermediary device 200 has a function of receiving regular, immediate or irregular abnormality reports, supply reports, activation reports, counter uncollected reports, etc. from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and reporting them to the central management apparatus CK. Have. Furthermore, the intermediary device 200 has a scheduler function, a file transmission / reception function, and a function for sorting out firmware to be held, and sets parameters for realizing these functions. For example, the mediation apparatus 200 sets parameters such as information collection timing, firmware update timing, command execution timing, and notification timing. Further, the intermediary device 200 has a Web UI screen display function. By connecting to the CE terminal, the information collected from the Web UI, life / death confirmation, IP address unknown, or search under a connection impossible state due to change is not possible. It can be performed.

  The mediation apparatus 200 is configured by software as shown in FIG. 4, and includes three layers, an application layer 210, a service layer 220, and a protocol layer 230. The application layer 210 has a device controller method group 211 and an NRS application method group 212. The device controller method group 211 is a program for performing information management, communication settings, and the like of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. The NRS application method group 212 is configured to collect counters (collection of management information) of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, change settings of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, check whether the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are alive, notify the counter to the central management apparatus CK, or abnormal This is a program that includes each method of notification and causes the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n to perform an operation in accordance with a request from the central management apparatus CK.

  The service layer 220 includes a security service 221, an electronic device communication service 222, a central management device communication service 223, and a scheduler service 224. The security service 221 is a module that generates and executes a job for preventing unauthorized leakage of internal information or the like to the outside. The electronic device communication service 222 is a module that realizes transmission / reception of information between the intermediary device 200 and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, which are management target devices. This module realizes transmission and reception of information with the management device CK. The scheduler service 224 is a module that performs processing of each method group based on predetermined set time information.

  The protocol layer 230 is a module that generates and executes a job for transmitting / receiving information using a protocol corresponding to an information transmission / reception target.

  The intermediary apparatus incorporated in the copying apparatus with intermediary apparatus 300 has the same function as the intermediary apparatus 200, although not shown.

  The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are configured as shown in FIG. 5, and include a controller board 110, an operation panel 121, an FCU (facsimile control unit) 122, a USB (Universal Serial Bus) 123, an IEEE 1394 124, and a plotter / scanner. An engine 125, a peripheral unit 126, and the like are provided.

  The controller board 110 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 111, an SDRAM 112, a flash memory 113, a hard disk (HDD) 114, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 115, a remote management system memory 116, a NIC (Network Interface Card) 117, a PI. (Communication interface unit) 118 and a modem 119 are provided.

  The SDRAM 112 is a memory that stores various programs, and a memory that the CPU 111 uses during data processing. The flash memory 113 is a memory that stores a boot program and an OS (Operating System) image, and a memory that stores data (model number, IP address, etc.) that require various non-volatility. The HDD 114 is a nonvolatile storage medium, and stores update firmware and execution firmware.

  The CPU 111 performs data calculation based on programs in the SDRAM 112, the flash memory 113, and the HDD 114, controls each unit of the copying apparatuses 110a to 110n, executes processing as the copying apparatuses 110a to 110n, and performs remote device management described later. Performs managed processing in the process.

  The ASIC 115 is designed to share a device to be controlled by the CPU 111 and to support high efficiency of development of applications and the like from the viewpoint of architecture. The remote management system memory 116 is a memory that stores various data necessary for realizing each function of the managed process in the device remote management process in the device remote management system 1. The NIC 117 is an interface that is connected to the mediation device 200 via a local network, and that connects to the proxy server 16 of the central management device CK from the mediation device 200 via a communication network NW such as the Internet. The PI 118 is an interface connected to the modem 15 of the central management device CK via the RS485 I / F 207 of the mediation device 200 or a line adapter. The modem 119 is connected to the modem 15 of the central management device CK via the communication network NW that is a public line.

  The operation panel 121 includes various operation keys, function keys, and the like, as well as a display (for example, a liquid crystal display), and various commands necessary for causing the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n to perform various operations. The contents of the command input from the operation keys and various information notified to the operator from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are displayed on the display.

  The FCU 122 captures a line, sends a selection signal that is a destination telephone number, detects an incoming call, etc., automatically receives a call from the line, performs automatic call processing to the line, A facsimile control signal is exchanged with the partner facsimile machine, and a facsimile communication procedure is executed.

  A USB device is connected to the USB 123, and data is exchanged with the connected USB device under the control of the CPU 111.

  The IEEE1394 124 is used for connection with an external scanner, a plotter, or the like.

  The plotter / scanner engine 125 prints out an image on a sheet based on the image data received from the ASIC 115, reads the document image data by main scanning / sub scanning, and outputs the document image data to the ASIC 115. The plotter / scanner engine 125 is connected to a peripheral unit 126 such as a post-processing machine or an ADF (automatic document feeder).

  The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are configured by software as shown in FIG. 6, and include an application module layer 130, a service module layer 150, a general-purpose OS layer 160, and the like. In the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the CPU 111 activates the boot programs in the flash memory 113 via the ASIC 115 to activate these programs, reads the OS image, loads the SDRAM 112, and develops the OS on the OS. Then, the OS is started. The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can realize each function by reading each application, service, and other programs in the flash memory 113, loading them into the SDRAM 112, starting them, and starting them as necessary. .

  The application module layer 130 includes an NRS 131, a CSS 132, a copy application (application) 133, a fax application 134, a printer application 135, a scanner application 136, a net file application 137, and a web application 138, and sandwiches the GW-API-IF 139. , OCS140, ECS141, MCS142, NCS143, FCS144, SCS145, DCS146, and UCS147.

  The NRS 131 is an application having a function related to device remote management via a network and a scheduler function such as data conversion when data is transmitted and received via the network, and the CSS 132 is a function related to remote management over a public line. It is an application that realizes. The copy application 133, the fax application 134, the printer application 135, the scanner application 136, the net file application 137, and the web application 138 are, as their names respectively, copy function, fax function, printer function, scanner function, net file operation function, and web service. It is an application that realizes each service.

  The OCS 140 is a module that controls the operation panel 121, and the ECS 141 is a module that controls the engine unit 125. The MCS 142 is a module that performs memory control, and the NCS 143 is a module that performs mediation processing between the network and each application in the application module layer 130. The FCS 144 is a module that realizes a facsimile function, and the SCS 145 is a module that performs activation management and termination management of each application of the application module layer 130 according to the command content. The DCS 146 is a module that transmits and receives image files stored in the memory on the HDD 114 and the controller board 110 using SMTP and FTP. The UCS 147 stores user information such as destination information and destination information registered by the device user. It is a module to manage.

  The SRM 150 is a module that controls the system and manages resources, and the general-purpose OS 160 is an operating system such as UNIX (registered trademark) or LINUX.

  The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n include an IMH 170. The IMH 170 is a module that manages a memory for temporarily storing image data.

  Next, the operation of this embodiment will be described. In the device remote management system 1 of this embodiment, the mediation device 200 acquires management information of the copy devices 100a to 100n at the customer site KS at a predetermined timing and transmits the management information to the central management device CK. The intermediary device acquires management information of the copying apparatus 300 with the intermediary device and transmits it to the central management device CK. At this time, only the difference from the previous management information is transmitted to the central management device CK. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, the device remote management system 1 is configured such that when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are installed (the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are registered in the central management apparatus CK via the mediation apparatus 200 as management targets), the central management apparatus CK is the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. Management information collection date and time (interval) such as the count value of the counter and the notification date and time (interval) setting command of the collected management information (count value of the counter) held in the storage area of the mediation device 200 200. When the setting command is sent, the intermediary device 200 sets the content of the setting command in its own scheduler, collects management information when the timing comes, and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information I do.

  That is, in the device remote management system 1, as shown in FIG. 7, the central management device CK transmits a collection / notification date (interval) setting command to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 responds to the setting command. Then, the management information collection date and notification (notification) date and time are set and registered in its own scheduler.

  When the mediation device 200 reaches a predetermined collection date and time (collection timing) set and registered in the scheduler, the intermediary device 200 stores various management information necessary for managing devices (copying devices 100a to 100n) such as counter values from the copying devices 100a to 100n. Collect the latest value collected and save it in its own storage area (management information storage means).

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save as information (latest management information) in the save area.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Next, when the mediation device 200 reaches a predetermined collection date and time registered and registered in the second and subsequent schedulers, it similarly collects various management information such as counter count values from the copying devices 100a to 100n and collects the latest collected information. The value is compared with the previously reported report management information (report value) in the storage area, and only the difference is reported to the central management device CK, and the latest value is stored in the storage area as the reported value (report value). That is, the management information collected this time is compared with the management information collected last time, and only management information having a difference between the management information is reported.

  The central management device CK supplements the previous reception management information, which is the previous reception value, based on the received management information (count value) and stores it in the database 13.

  Then, the device remote management system 1 processes the management information collection and notification processing for the second and subsequent times according to the set scheduler date and time.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the intermediary device 200 connected to each copy device 100a to 100n to be managed is necessary for managing the copy devices 100a to 100n from the copy devices 100a to 100n. Management information is acquired, the acquired management information is compared with the latest management information acquired previously, and only management information that is different between the management information is transmitted to the central management device CK. Specifically, the intermediary device 200 takes the difference between the two pieces of management information, and transmits the difference to the central management device CK. Is not sent.

  Accordingly, necessary management information can be transmitted while reducing the amount of data transmitted from the mediation apparatus 200 to the central management apparatus CK, communication traffic and communication costs can be reduced, and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can be managed. Can be performed appropriately.

  In the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation apparatus 200 collects management information from each of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n using the timing for each predetermined period set in advance from the central management apparatus CK as the collection timing. Yes.

  Therefore, it is possible to appropriately collect management information necessary for managing the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as managed devices at a necessary timing while reducing communication traffic and communication cost.

  FIG. 8 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the second embodiment of the communication apparatus and the device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  In the device remote management system 1 of this embodiment, the mediation device 200 of the customer site KS acquires management information of the copy devices 100a to 100n at a predetermined timing and transmits it to the central management device CK. The intermediary apparatus acquires the management information of the copying apparatus with intermediary apparatus 300 at a predetermined timing and transmits it to the central management apparatus CK. At this time, when the management information matches the previous management information, there is no change in the management information. Only information to that effect is transmitted to the central management device CK. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are installed, the remote management system 1 allows the central management apparatus CK to store the management information collection date and time (interval) such as the count value of the counter of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the storage area of the mediation apparatus 200. A notification date / time (interval) setting command of the collected management information (count value of the counter, etc.) held is transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. When the setting command is sent, the intermediary device 200 sets the content of the setting command in its own scheduler, collects management information when the timing comes, and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information I do.

  That is, in the device remote management system 1, as shown in FIG. 8, the central management device CK transmits a collection / notification date (interval) setting command to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 responds to the setting command. Then, the management information collection date and notification (notification) date and time are set and registered in its own scheduler.

  When the mediation device 200 reaches a predetermined collection date and time registered and registered in the scheduler, the mediation device 200 issues a value collection request to each of the copying devices 100a to 100n, and collects the counter count value from the copying devices 100a to 100n (copying device). 100a to 100n) is collected, and the collected latest values are stored in its own storage area.

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save it in the save area as information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Next, when the mediation device 200 reaches a predetermined collection date and time registered and registered in the second and subsequent schedulers, it similarly collects various management information such as counter count values from the copying devices 100a to 100n and collects the latest collected information. Compares the value with the previously reported report management information (report value), and if the two match, informs the central management device CK that there is no change in the management information (count value) and updates the latest value Is saved in the save area as the reported value (report value).

  The central management device CK supplements the previous reception management information, which is the previous reception value, based on the received management information (count value) and stores it in the database 13. That is, when the management information received this time is different from the management information received last time, the central management device CK stores the management information received this time as the latest management information, and that the content received this time does not change in the management information. If there is, the management information received last time is stored as it is as the latest management information.

  Then, the device remote management system 1 processes the management information collection and notification processing for the second and subsequent times according to the set scheduler date and time.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the intermediary device 200 connected to each copy device 100a to 100n to be managed is necessary for managing the copy devices 100a to 100n from the copy devices 100a to 100n. Management information, compare the acquired management information with the latest management information acquired previously, and for the management information that does not differ between the two management information, only the information that there is no change in the management information, It is transmitted to the management device CK.

  Accordingly, it is possible to transmit necessary management information while further reducing the amount of data transmitted from the intermediary device 200 to the central management device CK, further reduce communication traffic and communication cost, and copy device 100a. Management of ~ 100n can be performed appropriately.

  FIG. 9 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the third embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  In the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation apparatus 200 collects and acquires management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n in response to a management information collection request from the central management apparatus CK, and transmits the central management apparatus CK. In addition, the mediation device of the copy device with mediation device 300 acquires the management information of the copy device with mediation device 300 and transmits it to the central management device CK in response to a management information collection request from the central management device CK. At this time, when there is no previous management information transmission, all management information is transmitted. When the previous management information is transmitted, only the difference from the previous management information is transmitted to the central management device CK. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, in the device remote management system 1, the central management device CK transmits a collection request command for requesting collection of management information such as count values of counters of the copying apparatuses 100 a to 100 n to the mediation device 200. When the collection request command is sent, the intermediary device 200 collects management information at a predetermined timing and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information.

  That is, as shown in FIG. 9, when the central management device CK transmits a collection request command (value collection request) for requesting collection of management information (count value) to the mediation device 200, as shown in FIG. In response to the collection request command, the mediation apparatus 200 collects various management information such as a counter count value from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n at a predetermined timing, and stores the collected latest value in its own storage area. .

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save it in the save area as information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Next, when the collection request command is sent from the central management device CK at a predetermined timing after the second time, the intermediary device 200 similarly receives the count value of the counter from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n at the subsequent predetermined timing. The management information was collected, the latest value collected was compared with the previously reported report management information (report value), and only the difference was reported to the central management unit CK (response) and the latest value was reported. Save as a value (report value) in the save area.

  The central management device CK supplements the previous reception management information, which is the previous reception value, based on the received management information (count value) and stores it in the database 13.

  The device remote management system 1 executes the management information collection and notification processing for the second and subsequent times each time there is a collection request from the central management device CK.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 of this embodiment, the intermediary device 200 connected to each of the copy devices 100a to 100n to be managed uses the timing designated by the central management device CK as the collection timing. Management information is collected and acquired from the devices 100a to 100n, the acquired management information is compared with the latest management information acquired previously (report value), and only the management information having a difference between the management information is centrally managed. Transmitting to device CK.

  Therefore, it is possible to appropriately collect management information necessary for managing the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as devices at a necessary timing while reducing communication traffic and communication cost.

  FIG. 10 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the fourth embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  The device remote management system 1 of this embodiment transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK when an abnormality such as a failure occurs in each of the copying devices 100a to 100n and the copying device 300 with an intermediary device. Management information (a count value or the like) is attached (added) to the service call (SC) signal and passed to the mediation device of the mediation device 200 or the mediation device 300 with the mediation device, and mediation of the mediation device 200 or the mediation device 300 with the mediation device. The device transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK. At this time, if no previous management information is transmitted, all the management information is added to the service call (SC) signal and transmitted. When the management information is transmitted, only the difference from the previous management information is added to the service call (SC) signal and transmitted to the central management device CK. . .

  In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case will be described in which the intermediary device 200 transmits management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n to the central management device CK to perform management. The same applies to the device 300.

  First, the remote device management system 1 transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK when an abnormality such as a failure occurs in each of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. Management information (count value, etc.) is attached (added) and passed to the mediation apparatus 200.

  The intermediary device 200 stores the management information passed from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as its latest value (latest management information) in its own storage area.

  Then, when the mediation device 200 has not transmitted management information to the central management device CK last time, the mediation device 200 adds all management information that is all count values in the storage area to the service call (SC) signal. The management information (count value) transmitted to the central management device CK is stored in the storage area as report management information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Next, when the mediation device 200 has transmitted management information from the mediation device 200 to the central management device CK for the second time or later, that is, when the copying devices 100a to 100n have an abnormality such as a failure, the mediation device 200 Management information (a count value or the like) is attached (added) to the service call (SC) signal transmitted to the management device CK and passed to the mediation device 200.

  The intermediary device 200 stores the management information passed from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as its latest value (latest management information) in its own storage area.

  And since the intermediary device 200 has transmitted the management information to the central management device CK last time, the latest value in the storage area is compared with the report management information (report value) reported last time, and only the difference is centrally managed. In addition to reporting to the device CK, the latest value is stored in the storage area as the reported value (report value).

  The central management device CK supplements the previous received value based on the received management information (count value) and stores it in the database 13 as the latest management information.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n generate a service call with management information added when a predetermined abnormal state such as a failure occurs, the mediation apparatus 200 When the service call is transmitted to the central management device CK and there is a difference between the management information added to the service call and the management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n stored in the storage area, there is a difference. The management information is added to the service call and transmitted to the central management device CK, and the central management device CK determines whether the management information is added to the service call. Only management information that has been changed and other management information has not changed, and if management information has not been added, all management information has not changed, For managing the copy apparatus 100a~100n.

  Therefore, also in the transmission of management information when a service call occurs, it is possible to transmit necessary management information while reducing the amount of data transmitted from the mediation device 200 to the central management device CK, thereby reducing communication traffic and communication cost. In addition, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can be appropriately managed.

  FIG. 11 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the fifth embodiment of the communication apparatus and the device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  The device remote management system 1 of this embodiment transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK when an abnormality such as a failure occurs in each of the copying devices 100a to 100n and the copying device 300 with an intermediary device. Management information (a count value or the like) is attached (added) to the service call (SC) signal and passed to the mediation device of the mediation device 200 or the mediation device 300 with the mediation device, and mediation of the mediation device 200 or the mediation device 300 with the mediation device. The device transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK. At this time, if no previous management information is transmitted, all the management information is added to the service call (SC) signal and transmitted. When the management information is transmitted and matches the previous management information, information indicating that the information does not change is added to the service call (SC) signal. It is sent to the central management device CK.

  In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, the remote device management system 1 transmits a service call (SC) signal to the central management device CK when an abnormality such as a failure occurs in each of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. Management information (count value, etc.) is attached (added) and passed to the mediation apparatus 200.

  The intermediary device 200 stores the management information passed from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as its latest value (latest management information) in its own storage area.

  Then, when the mediation device 200 has not transmitted management information to the central management device CK last time, the mediation device 200 adds all management information that is all count values in the storage area to the service call (SC) signal. The management information (count value) transmitted to the central management device CK is stored in the storage area as report management information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Next, after the second time, that is, when management information has been transmitted from the mediation apparatus 200 to the central management apparatus CK last time, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n transmit to the central management apparatus CK when an abnormality such as a failure occurs. Management information (count value or the like) is attached (added) to the service call (SC) signal to be transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. The mediation apparatus 200 receives the management information passed from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as the latest value (latest information). Management information) is stored in its own storage area, but since the management information is sent to the central management device CK last time, the latest value in the storage area is compared with the previous report management information (report value), If the two match, information indicating that the management information (count value) is not changed is added to the service call (SC) signal to notify the central management device CK, and the latest value is transmitted. Save to save area as the value (Problem value). Also, when the management information does not match, the mediation device 200 adds the difference to the service call (SC) signal and transmits it to the central management device CK, for example.

  Based on the received management information (count value), the central management device CK supplements the previous received value and stores it in the database 13 as the latest management information.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n generate a service call with management information added when a predetermined abnormal state such as a failure occurs, the mediation apparatus 200 The service call is transmitted to the central management device CK, and management information that has no difference between the management information added to the service call and the management information of the copying devices 100a to 100n stored in the storage area is managed. Only information indicating that there is no change in information is added to the service call (SC) signal and transmitted to the central management device CK.

  Therefore, in the notification of the management information when the service call (SC) signal is generated, the necessary management information can be transmitted while further reducing the amount of data transmitted from the mediation device 200 to the central management device CK. Communication costs can be further reduced, and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can be appropriately managed.

  FIG. 12 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the sixth embodiment of the communication apparatus and the device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  In the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation apparatus 200 collects and acquires management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n at the customer site KS in response to a management information collection request from the central management apparatus CK. The intermediary device of the copying apparatus 300 with the intermediary device acquires the management information of the copying apparatus 300 with the intermediary device in response to the management information collection request from the central management device CK, and transmits the central device CK. However, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus with an intermediary apparatus 300 are provided with an off mode (predetermined energy saving mode) for reducing power consumption. If there is an off-mode flag (energy saving mode information) in the management information, the intermediary apparatus 200 or the intermediary apparatus-equipped copying apparatus 300 is connected. When the collection of management information for the second and subsequent times in the off mode is stopped by passing to the apparatus, and when the mode is shifted from the off mode to another mode, an off mode release call is issued to the intermediary apparatus 200 or the intermediary apparatus of the copier 300 with the intermediary apparatus. To pass. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are installed, the remote management system 1 allows the central management apparatus CK to store the management information collection date and time (interval) such as the count value of the counter of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the storage area of the mediation apparatus 200. A notification date / time (interval) setting command of the collected management information (count value of the counter, etc.) held is transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. When the setting command is sent, the intermediary device 200 sets the content of the setting command in its own scheduler, collects management information when the timing comes, and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information I do. In addition, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n have an off mode in which power supplied to each unit other than the main unit is reduced or stopped in order to reduce power consumption, a copy mode other than the off mode, a print mode, and the like. When the off mode is entered, the off mode flag is set, and when the first management information collection request is received from the intermediary device 200 in the off mode, the off mode flag is set to the management information. When the mode is transferred from the off mode to another mode, the off mode flag is reset, and the mediation device 200 is accompanied by the off mode flag in the off mode release call. Pass to device 200. Then, the intermediary device 200 sets the off mode flag set and reset from each of the copying devices 100a to 100n in the internal memory, and manages the copying devices 100a to 100n based on the setting and reset of the off mode flag. Controls information collection requests.

  That is, in the device remote management system 1, as shown in FIG. 12, the central management device CK transmits a collection / notification date (interval) setting command to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 responds to the setting command. Then, the management information collection date and notification (notification) date and time are set and registered in its own scheduler.

  The mediation apparatus 200 checks the state of the off mode flag from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n when the predetermined collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached. A value collection request is made, various management information such as a counter count value is collected from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, and the latest collected value is stored in its own storage area.

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save it in the save area as information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Then, in the case of the second and subsequent notifications, the intermediary device 200 reports only the difference in management information or information indicating that there is no change, as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Do.

  Thereafter, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n shift from the other mode to the off mode, the off mode flag is set. After that, when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached, the intermediary device 200 refers to the off mode flag in the internal memory and makes a value collection request if the off mode flag is not set. At this time, since the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are in the off mode and the off mode flag is set, the off mode flag is attached to (added to) the management information such as the count value, and the off mode flag is added. The managed information is transferred to the mediation apparatus 200. The intermediary device 200 stores the management information from each of the copying devices 100a to 100n in its own storage area as the latest value, and when the off mode flag is added, the management to which the off mode flag is added. An off mode flag is set in the internal memory in correspondence with the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n that are the information transmission sources.

  Thereafter, when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached, the intermediary device 200 refers to the off mode flag in the internal memory, and when the off mode flag is set, collects values to the copying devices 100a to 100n. When the notification date and time is reached without making a request, the stored management information is transmitted to the central management device CK.

  Then, when the off mode is canceled and the copying apparatus 100n shifts to another mode, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n reset the off mode flag, and pass the reset off mode flag to the mediation apparatus 200 in association with the off mode release call.

  When the off-mode release call accompanied by the reset off-mode flag is sent from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the mediating apparatus 200 resets the off-mode flag of the internal memory, and is then set and registered in the scheduler. If the off-mode flag in the internal memory is not set and the off-mode flag is not set, a value collection request is made and various management information such as counter count values from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n And collect the latest value collected in its own storage area.

  Then, the intermediary device 200 transmits all management information that is all count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and stores the reported management information (count value) in the storage area as report management information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  As described above, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n receive a management information collection request from the mediation apparatus 200 in the off mode, the remote device management system 1 according to the present embodiment is in an off mode flag ( The energy saving mode information) and the management information are notified to the mediation device 200, and when returning from the off mode, an off mode release call is transmitted to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 stores the received management information and the off mode flag in the internal memory. Storage mode, i.e., the off mode flag is set, and the copying apparatus 100a to 100n for which the off mode flag is set, cancels the management information collection request, and an off mode release call is issued from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. When it is sent, the off mode flag of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n is reset. Delete) to.

  Accordingly, even when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n have the off mode, it is possible to transmit necessary management information while reducing the amount of data transmitted from the mediation apparatus 200 to the central management apparatus CK, and to communicate with communication traffic. The cost can be reduced and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can be appropriately managed.

  FIG. 13 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the seventh embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  In the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation apparatus 200 collects and acquires management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n in response to a management information collection request from the central management apparatus CK, and transmits the central management apparatus CK. In addition, the mediation device of the copy device with mediation device 300 acquires the management information of the copy device with mediation device 300 and transmits it to the central management device CK in response to a management information collection request from the central management device CK. The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus with an intermediary apparatus 300 are provided with an off mode for reducing power consumption, and if there is a management information collection request after shifting to the off mode, an off mode flag is displayed in the management information. Is transferred to the mediation device of the mediation device 200 or the copy device 300 with the mediation device, and in the off mode, the pipe from the mediation device 200 to the central management device CK It does not notify of information. When the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n shift from the off mode to another mode, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n pass the off mode release call to the mediating apparatus 200 or the mediating apparatus of the mediating apparatus 300. The 300 intermediary devices reset the off-mode flag and resume the notification of management information to the central management device CK. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are installed, the remote management system 1 allows the central management apparatus CK to store the management information collection date and time (interval) such as the count value of the counter of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the storage area of the mediation apparatus 200. A notification date / time (interval) setting command of the collected management information (count value of the counter, etc.) held is transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. When the setting command is sent, the intermediary device 200 sets the content of the setting command in its own scheduler, collects management information when the timing comes, and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information I do. In addition, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n have an off mode (predetermined energy saving mode) for reducing or stopping power supply to each unit other than the main unit during standby or the like in order to reduce power consumption, and a mode other than the off mode. And other modes such as a copy mode and a print mode. When the off mode is entered, an off mode flag (energy saving mode information) is set, and the collection request for the first management information is entered when the off mode is entered. If it is 200, the off mode flag is attached (added) to the management information and passed to the mediation apparatus 200. In the off mode, the management information is not notified from the mediation apparatus 200 to the central management apparatus CK for the second and subsequent times. Further, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n shift from the off mode to another mode, the copying apparatus 100a resets the off mode flag, and passes the off mode flag to the mediation apparatus 200 and passes it to the mediation apparatus 200. Then, the intermediary device 200 sets the off mode flag set and reset from each of the copying devices 100a to 100n in the internal memory, and manages the copying devices 100a to 100n based on the setting and reset of the off mode flag. Control of information collection requests and control of management information notification to the central management device CK are performed.

  That is, in the device remote management system 1, as shown in FIG. 13, the central management device CK transmits a collection / notification date (interval) setting command to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 responds to the setting command. Then, the management information collection date and notification (notification) date and time are set and registered in its own scheduler.

  The mediation apparatus 200 checks the state of the off mode flag from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n when the predetermined collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached. A value collection request is made, various management information such as a counter count value is collected from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, and the latest collected value is stored in its own storage area.

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save it in the save area as information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Then, in the case of the second and subsequent notifications, the intermediary device 200 reports only the difference in management information or information indicating that there is no change, as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Do.

  Thereafter, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n shift from the other mode to the off mode, the off mode flag is set. After that, when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached, the intermediary device 200 refers to the off mode flag in the internal memory and makes a value collection request if the off mode flag is not set. At this time, since the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are in the off mode and the off mode flag is set, the off mode flag is attached to (added to) the management information such as the count value, and the off mode flag is added. The managed information is transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. The intermediary device 200 stores the management information from each of the copying devices 100a to 100n in its own storage area as the latest value, and when the off mode flag is added, the management to which the off mode flag is added. An off mode flag is set in the internal memory in correspondence with the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n that are the information transmission sources.

  Thereafter, when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached, the intermediary device 200 refers to the off mode flag in the internal memory, and when the off mode flag is set, collects values to the copying devices 100a to 100n. When the notification date and time is reached without making a request, the transmission of the stored management information to the central management device CK is also stopped.

  Then, when the off mode is canceled and the copying apparatus 100n shifts to another mode, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n reset the off mode flag, and pass the reset off mode flag to the mediation apparatus 200 in association with the off mode release call.

  When the off-mode release call accompanied by the reset off-mode flag is sent from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the mediating apparatus 200 resets the off-mode flag of the internal memory, and is then set and registered in the scheduler. If the off-mode flag in the internal memory is not set and the off-mode flag is not set, a value collection request is made and various management information such as counter count values from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n And collect the latest value collected in its own storage area.

  Then, the intermediary device 200 transmits all management information that is all count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and stores the reported management information (count value) in the storage area as report management information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  As described above, the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment performs at least the second and subsequent central management after the off mode flag is set for the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n in which the off mode flag is set. In transmission of management information to the apparatus CK, transmission of the management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n to the central management apparatus CK is stopped.

  Therefore, it is possible to further reduce the communication traffic and communication cost from the intermediary device 200 to the central management device CK when the copying devices 100a to 100n are in the off mode, and to appropriately manage the copying devices 100a to 100n. it can.

  FIG. 14 is a device remote management sequence diagram by the device remote management system to which the eighth embodiment of the communication apparatus and device remote management system of the present invention is applied.

  The device remote management system of this embodiment is applied to the device remote management system similar to the device remote management system 1 of the first embodiment, and in the description of this embodiment, if necessary, Description will be made using the same reference numerals used in the description of the first embodiment.

  In the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the mediation apparatus 200 collects and acquires management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n in response to a management information collection request from the central management apparatus CK, and transmits the central management apparatus CK. In addition, the mediation device of the copy device with mediation device 300 acquires the management information of the copy device with mediation device 300 and transmits it to the central management device CK in response to a management information collection request from the central management device CK. The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the copying apparatus with an intermediary apparatus include an off mode (predetermined energy saving mode) for reducing power consumption and turning off the main power when a predetermined elapsed time has elapsed. If there is a management information collection request after shifting to, the mediation device 200 is attached with an off mode flag (energy saving mode information) in the management information. Or the mediation device of the mediation device 200 or the mediation device with the mediation device 300 sets the off mode flag, and in the off mode, the second time to the central management device CK. The subsequent management information is not notified. Further, when the main power is turned on again after the main power is turned off, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n pass a power-on notification to the mediating apparatus 200 or the mediating apparatus of the copying apparatus 300 with the mediating apparatus, and mediate. The mediation apparatus of the apparatus 200 or the copying apparatus with a mediation apparatus 300 resets the off mode flag. In the following description, in order to simplify the description, a case where the mediating apparatus 200 collects management information of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and transmits the management information to the central management apparatus CK to perform management will be described. The same applies to the copying apparatus with apparatus 300.

  First, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are installed, the remote management system 1 allows the central management apparatus CK to store the management information collection date and time (interval) such as the count value of the counter of the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n and the storage area of the mediation apparatus 200. A notification date / time (interval) setting command of the collected management information (count value of the counter, etc.) held is transmitted to the mediation apparatus 200. When the setting command is sent, the intermediary device 200 sets the content of the setting command in its own scheduler, collects management information when the timing comes, and notifies the central management device CK of the collected management information I do. In addition, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n have an off mode in which power supplied to each unit other than the main unit is reduced or stopped in order to reduce power consumption, a copy mode other than the off mode, a print mode, and the like. When the off mode is entered, the off mode flag is set, and when the first management information collection request is received from the intermediary device 200 in the off mode, the off mode flag is set to the management information. Is attached (added) to the mediation apparatus 200, and the mediation apparatus 200 sets an off mode flag. In this off mode, the management information is not notified to the central management apparatus CK for the second and subsequent times. The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n turn off the main power when the predetermined time has elapsed in the off mode, and then, after the main power is turned on, the main power is normally turned off once in the off mode. Even if it is turned on again, an off mode release call is not performed, so a power-on notification is sent to the mediation apparatus 200. Then, the intermediary device 200 sets the off mode flag set and reset from each of the copying devices 100a to 100n in the internal memory, and manages the copying devices 100a to 100n based on the setting and reset of the off mode flag. The information collection request is controlled, and when there is a power-on notification from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the off mode flag is reset.

  That is, in the device remote management system 1, as shown in FIG. 14, the central management device CK transmits a collection / notification date (interval) setting command to the mediation device 200, and the mediation device 200 responds to the setting command. Then, the management information collection date and notification (notification) date and time are set and registered in its own scheduler.

  The mediation apparatus 200 checks the state of the off mode flag from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n when the predetermined collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached. A request for collecting values is made, various management information necessary for managing devices (copying apparatuses 100a to 100n) such as collection of counter values from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n is collected, and the latest values collected are collected by the user. Save to the save area.

  Then, in the case of the first notification, the intermediary device 200 transmits all the management information that is all the count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and reports the reported management information (count value). Save it in the save area as information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  Then, in the case of the second and subsequent notifications, the intermediary device 200 reports only the difference in management information or information indicating that there is no change, as in the first embodiment or the second embodiment. Do.

  Thereafter, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n shift from the other mode to the off mode, the off mode flag is set. After that, the mediation apparatus 200 turns off the internal memory when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler comes. With reference to the mode flag, if the off mode flag is not set, a value collection request is made. At this time, since the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are in the off mode and the off mode flag is set, the off mode flag is added (added) to the management information such as the count value, and the off mode flag is added. The intermediary apparatus 200 stores the management information from the respective copying apparatuses 100a to 100n as its latest value in its own storage area, and an off mode flag is added. Then, the off mode flag is set in the internal memory in correspondence with the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n that are the transmission sources of the management information to which the off mode flag is added.

  Thereafter, when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler is reached, the mediation apparatus 200 refers to the off-mode flag in the internal memory. If the off-mode flag is set, the mediation apparatus 200 performs the second and subsequent times to the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n. The transmission of the stored management information to the central management device CK is also stopped.

  The copying apparatuses 100a to 100n turn off the main power when the predetermined time has elapsed in the off mode, and then turn on the main power when the main power is turned on by the operator or facsimile reception occurs. To do. When the main power supply is turned on, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n send a power-on notification to the mediation apparatus 200. When receiving the power-on notification from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the intermediary device 200 resets the off mode flag of the internal memory, and then refers to the off mode flag of the internal memory when the collection date and time set and registered in the scheduler comes. If the off mode flag is not set, a value collection request is made, various management information such as a counter count value is collected from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, and the collected latest value is stored in its own storage area. Save to.

  Then, the intermediary device 200 transmits all management information that is all count values in the storage area to the central management device CK, and stores the reported management information (count value) in the storage area as report management information.

  The central management device CK stores the received management information (count value) in the database 13 which is a storage area.

  As described above, in the device remote management system 1 according to the present embodiment, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are in the off mode, and when the off mode has elapsed for a predetermined time, the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n are turned off and the power is supplied under a predetermined return condition. And a mode for performing a power-on notification to the mediation apparatus 200. When the mediation apparatus 200 receives a power-on notification from the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n, the off-mode flag is reset.

  Accordingly, when the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n have an off mode for turning off the power, when the power turned off in the off mode is turned on, the off mode flag of the mediation apparatus 200 is appropriately set by the power on notification. The collection and transmission of management information can be appropriately resumed by resetting, and the copying apparatuses 100a to 100n can be appropriately managed while reducing communication traffic and communication cost.

  The invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the preferred embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above, and various modifications can be made without departing from the scope of the invention. Needless to say.

  INDUSTRIAL APPLICABILITY The present invention can be applied to a communication device and a device remote management system in general that centrally manage a plurality of devices at low cost and efficiently.

1 is a system configuration diagram of a device remote management system to which a first embodiment of a communication apparatus and a device remote management system of the present invention is applied. FIG. The principal part block block diagram of the central management apparatus of FIG. The principal part block block diagram of the mediation apparatus of FIG. The figure which shows the software structure of the mediation apparatus of FIG. FIG. 2 is a block configuration diagram of the copying apparatus in FIG. 1. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the copying apparatus in FIG. 5. FIG. 2 is a sequence diagram showing device management processing by the device remote management system of FIG. 1. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which 2nd Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention is applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which 3rd Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which 4th Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which 5th Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which the 6th Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which the 7th Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied. The sequence diagram which shows the apparatus remote management process by the apparatus remote management system to which the 8th Example of the communication apparatus and apparatus remote management system of this invention are applied.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Apparatus remote management system CK Central management apparatus 11 Control part 12 Operation terminal 13 Database 14 Communication terminal 15 Modem 16 Proxy server 21 Parameter storage area KS Customer site 100a-100n Copy apparatus 110 Controller board 111 CPU
112 SDRAM
113 Flash memory 114 HDD
115 ASIC
116 Memory for remote management system 117 NIC
118 PI
119 Modem 121 Operation panel 122 FCU
123 USB
124 IEEE 1394
125 Plotter / Scanner Engine 126 Peripheral Machine 130 Application Module Layer 131 NRS
132 CSS
133 Copy application 134 Fax application 135 Printer application 136 Scanner application 137 Net file application 138 Web application 139 GW-API-IF
140 OCS
141 ECS
142 MCS
143 NCS
144 FCS
145 SCS
146 DCS
147 UCS
150 Service Module Layer (SRM)
160 General-purpose OS layer 170 IMH
200 Mediation device 201 CPU
202 RTC
203 HDD
204 SDRAM
205 Modem 206 PHY
207 RS485 I / F
208 ROM
209 Bus 210 Application layer 211 Device controller method group 212 NRS application method group 220 Service layer 221 Security service 222 Electronic device communication service 223 Central management device communication service 224 Scheduler service 230 Protocol layer

Claims (10)

  Each device is connected to a network to which the device is connected, or is built in or externally connected to each device, and is connected to a central management device that manages the device through a predetermined wired or wireless communication line. In a communication device that acquires predetermined management information necessary for each device from each device and transmits it to the central management device via the communication line, the management information acquisition request is made to each device at a predetermined collection timing, and the management Management information acquisition means for acquiring information, management information storage means for specifying and storing the latest management information acquired from each device by the management information acquisition means, and new management of each acquired device Comparison means for comparing information and management information stored in the management information storage means, and the central management apparatus only for the management information that the comparison means determines that there is a difference between the management information Communication device characterized by comprising a control means for transmitting.   A communication device that is connected to a network to which each device is connected or that is built in or externally connected to each device and a central management device that manages the device are connected via a predetermined wired or wireless communication line, and the communication device Obtains predetermined management information necessary for management of the device from each device and transmits it to the central management device via the communication line, and the central management device manages each device based on the management information. In the device remote management system, the communication device sends a management information acquisition request to each device at a predetermined collection timing to acquire the management information, and a management information acquisition unit The management information storage means for specifying and storing the latest management information acquired is compared with the management information stored in the management information storage means and the new management information for each acquired equipment. Comparison means and, equipment remote control system, characterized in that said comparing means comprises a control means for transmitting to the central station only management information it is determined that there are differences in both said management information.   The communication device according to claim 1, wherein the communication device collects the management information from each of the devices, with a timing set for each predetermined period as the collection timing. Remote management system.   The communication apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication apparatus collects the management information from each of the apparatuses using the timing instructed from the central management apparatus as the collection timing. Remote management system.   The control means transmits only information indicating that there is no change in the management information to the central management apparatus for the management information determined by the comparison means that there is no difference between the old and new management information. The communication apparatus or apparatus remote management system in any one of Claims 1-4.   The device has a service call function of transmitting a service call to which the management information is added to the central management device via the communication device when a predetermined abnormal state such as a failure occurs. When a service call is generated from a device, the service call is transmitted to the central management apparatus, and the comparison means adds management information added to the service call and management information of the device in the management information storage means. Only the management information that the comparison means determines that there is a difference between the management information is added to the service call and transmitted to the central management device, and the central management device adds the management information to the service call. If management information is added, it is assumed that only the added management information changes, and there is no change in other management information. If distribution is not added, as there is no change in any of the management information, the communication device or equipment remote management system according to any of claims 1 to 5, characterized in that for managing the device.   When the comparison unit determines that there is no difference between the management information of the devices that have generated the service call, the communication unit determines that the control unit has only information indicating that the management call has not changed. The communication apparatus or the remote equipment management system according to claim 6, wherein the communication apparatus or the equipment remote management system is transmitted to the central management apparatus.   The device includes a predetermined energy saving mode for reducing power consumption, and when there is a collection request for the management information from the communication device in the energy saving mode, the device includes the energy saving mode information indicating the energy saving mode and the management information. Notifying the communication device and returning from the energy saving mode, an energy saving mode release call is transmitted to the communication device, and the communication device stores the received management information and the energy saving mode information in the management information storage means, If the energy saving mode information is stored in the management information storage means, the management information collection request is canceled and the energy saving mode cancellation call is sent from the device. Deleting the energy saving mode information of the device from the means Communication devices or equipment remote management system according to any one of claims 7 to Motomeko 1.   The communication device may be configured to store the energy saving mode information in the management information storage unit at least for the second or subsequent time after the energy saving mode information is stored in the management information storage unit. 9. The communication device or device remote management system according to claim 8, wherein in transmitting the management information to a management device, transmission of the management information of the device to the central management device is stopped. The device, as the energy-saving mode, turns off the power of the device when the energy-saving mode has elapsed for a predetermined time, turns on the power under a predetermined return condition, and notifies the communication device of power-on, and the communication device 10. The communication apparatus or device remote management system according to claim 8 or 9, wherein when the power-on notification is received from the device, the energy saving mode information is deleted from the management information storage unit.

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