JP2009151459A - State informing system and state informing program for electric equipment - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a state informing system for electric equipment reducing a user's workload or the like and surely acquiring information on the state of the electric equipment with simple constitution to improve convenience and security. <P>SOLUTION: The state informing system for the electric equipment comprises a communication means (a power line communication part 208) transmitting/receiving predetermined information; a confirming means (a failure determining device 201) confirming a state on a predetermined part of the electric equipment (E1-E3); and informing means (a display device 203 and alternative means A1-3) informing the user of information on the state of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirming means, through the communication means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to a state notification system and a state notification program for electrical equipment.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a state notification system that notifies a user or the like of a state of a device, such as a printer or a multifunction device as an electrical device.

  For example, for a multifunction device or photo printing machine installed in a copy center or the like, when printing cannot be performed due to a shortage of consumables or a device failure, etc. There has been proposed a technique for displaying installation position information and function information of an operable peripheral device among the set peripheral devices, and displaying a map of the peripheral device selected by the user (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-186400). ).

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-190171 discloses a technique in which print data is transferred in advance from a device in which a failure has been notified to a peripheral device, and the peripheral device prints an image.

  However, the above-described conventional technique has a problem that a storage device for preliminarily storing peripheral devices and the like must be provided for a device in which a failure occurs.

  In addition, when using a server, there is a problem that a user or the like needs work such as server setting and management, which is troublesome.

  Furthermore, when a failure or an error occurs in a display device included in an electric device, there is a problem that it is difficult to grasp the failure state.

  In addition, in order to prevent fire or electric shock from an electrical device, an abnormality (failure or error) of the electrical device is detected at an early stage, and control is performed so that the electrical device is not turned on before a malfunction occurs. It is considered effective to avoid it.

  For example, in Japanese translations of PCT publication No. 2004-536514, when an operation failure of an electrical device managed using a network is detected, an emergency signal (special signal line) is transmitted to the electrical device determined to be malfunctioning. However, a technology is disclosed in which a malfunctioning device is disabled when it receives an emergency signal.

  In addition, in the case of manufacturers of electrical equipment, when communicating important information such as equipment recall information and maintenance / inspection information to users, documents can be sent by mail or electronically based on user registration information registered by the user. If mail is distributed but user registration is not performed or if user information is changed due to transfer of equipment, etc., the manufacturer shall transmit the information to the user using the means described above. There was a problem that could not be.

  In the above conventional technique, since the monitoring device can only monitor a certain fixed operation with respect to a device connected to the network, and can only monitor in a state in which the device is operating, there is a malfunction. There was a risk that the response would be delayed when waking up.

In addition, the conventional technology has a problem in that an operation failure diagnosis program cannot be updated, and it is not possible to flexibly cope with addition of diagnosis items.
JP-A-2005-186400 JP-A-2005-190171 Special table 2004-536514 gazette

  The present invention can reduce a user's work load and the like, can obtain information on the state of the electric device with a simple configuration, and can improve the convenience and security. An object is to provide a notification system and a status notification program.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, an electrical equipment state notification system according to the invention of claim 1 includes a communication unit that transmits and receives predetermined information, a confirmation unit that confirms a state of a predetermined part of the electrical device, And a notifying means for notifying information about the state of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirmation means via the communication means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, the communication unit is configured by a power line communication unit that transmits and receives the predetermined information via a power line.

  According to a third aspect of the electrical equipment status notification system according to the invention of claim 3, the status of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirmation means includes the presence or absence of a failure occurrence state or an error occurrence state for the predetermined part. And

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a state notification system for an electrical device, in which the notification means is used instead of the notification means when the predetermined portion whose failure occurrence state or error occurrence state is confirmed by the confirmation means is the notification means. Search means for searching for alternative means for performing via the communication means, and control means for transmitting and notifying information on the failure to the alternative means searched for by the search means via the communication means. It is characterized by providing.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a state notification system for an electric device, which includes display means capable of displaying predetermined information, and the alternative means relates to the communication means and the failure transmitted via the communication means. It includes a home electric appliance having an information display function.

  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrical apparatus status notification system comprising printing means capable of printing predetermined information, wherein the alternative means relates to the communication means and the failure transmitted via the communication means. An image forming apparatus including an information printing function is included.

  According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a state notification system for an electrical device, comprising: an analysis unit that analyzes a distance to the alternative unit and a position of the alternative unit based on information from the communication unit.

  According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a state notification system for an electric device that assigns identification information in advance to each of the alternative means that can be searched by the search means, and the analysis means calculates the distance and position based on the identification information. It is characterized by grasping.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a state notification system for an electrical device, comprising: a registration unit that registers in advance the distance to the alternative unit and the position.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a status notification system for an electrical device that determines a priority order based on a predetermined determination criterion as to which alternative means is used when a plurality of alternative means are searched by the search means. And a priority order determining means.

  In the electrical equipment state notification system according to an eleventh aspect of the invention, the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion related to a function provided in each of the alternative means.

  In the electrical equipment state notification system according to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion based on a usage history of each of the alternative means.

  According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion relating to a response speed of each of the alternative units via the communication unit.

  In the electrical equipment state notification system according to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion based on a distance to each alternative means and a position of the alternative means.

  According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the state notification system for an electric device, wherein the confirmation unit includes an information acquisition unit that acquires information about a state of a predetermined part via the communication unit.

  According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the status notification system for an electrical device, wherein the information related to the state of the predetermined part acquired by the information acquisition means is at least one of recall information, maintenance information, and a diagnostic program for the electrical device. It is characterized by including one.

  The electrical equipment state notification system according to the invention of claim 17 is characterized in that when the information on the state of the predetermined part includes the recall information, control is performed so as not to turn on the corresponding electrical equipment. To do.

  An electrical equipment status notification system according to an invention of claim 18 performs predetermined processing different for each level when the information related to the status of the predetermined site includes recall information provided with a plurality of levels. It is characterized by controlling to.

  In the electrical equipment status notification system according to the nineteenth aspect of the invention, the confirmation unit includes a monitoring unit that monitors the usage frequency of the predetermined part, and the usage frequency acquired by the monitoring unit is preset. When the threshold value is exceeded, the information on the state of the predetermined part is notified by the notification means.

  According to a twenty-second aspect of the present invention, there is provided an electrical device status notification program, wherein the notification means performs a communication process for transmitting and receiving predetermined information, a confirmation process for confirming a state of a predetermined part of the electrical device, and the confirmation process. And a notifying process for notifying information related to the state of the predetermined part confirmed in (5).

  According to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained.

  That is, according to the first aspect of the present invention, the information regarding the state of the predetermined part is notified as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Information about the state can be acquired.

  According to the invention described in claim 2, since it is configured to transmit and receive predetermined information via the power line as compared to the case where this configuration is not provided,

  According to the third aspect of the present invention, the state of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirmation unit includes the presence or absence of a failure occurrence state or an error occurrence state as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Therefore, the user can take an appropriate measure for the electric device based on the information.

  According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, the search is performed when the predetermined part of which the failure occurrence state or the error occurrence state is confirmed by the confirmation unit is the notification unit as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Since the information related to the failure is transmitted and notified to the alternative means searched by the means via the communication means, the user reliably acquires the information related to the state of the electric device via the alternative means. be able to.

  According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the display unit is configured by display means capable of displaying predetermined information. For example, a predetermined television receiver or a monitor of a personal computer can be used as an alternative means, and information can be easily acquired to improve user convenience. Can do.

  According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided, the information processing unit is configured by a printing unit capable of printing predetermined information, and the alternative unit includes a communication unit and a function for printing information regarding a failure. Therefore, for example, a predetermined printer, a facsimile machine or the like can be used as an alternative means, information can be easily acquired, and user convenience can be improved.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, since the distance and position to the alternative means are analyzed based on information from the communication means as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, the alternative means is provided to the user. The distance and position can be communicated, and convenience can be improved.

  According to the eighth aspect of the invention, compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided, the distance and the position are grasped based on the identification information, so that the analysis process can be easily performed, and the user can Convenience can be improved because the distance and position to the alternative means can be transmitted.

  According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, since the registration means for registering the distance and position to the alternative means in advance is provided, the analysis process can be easily performed. Moreover, since the distance and position to an alternative means can be told to a user, the convenience can be improved.

  According to the invention described in claim 10, when a plurality of alternative means are searched for by the search means as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, a predetermined determination criterion as to which alternative means is used. Since the priority order is determined based on the above, an alternative means convenient for the user can be guided, and convenience can be improved.

  According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, an alternative means that is more convenient for the user can be guided more accurately, and convenience can be improved.

  According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, an alternative means that is more convenient for the user can be guided more accurately, and convenience can be improved.

  According to the thirteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to guide the alternative means that is more convenient for the user more accurately than in the case where the present configuration is not provided, and the convenience can be improved.

  According to the fourteenth aspect of the present invention, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, an alternative means that is more convenient for the user can be guided more accurately, and convenience can be improved.

  According to the fifteenth aspect of the present invention, the confirmation unit obtains information on the state of the predetermined part via the communication unit as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Thus, it is possible to accurately cope with various states, and it is possible to improve convenience and security.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the information on the state of the predetermined part is at least one of the recall information, maintenance information, and information on the diagnostic program of the electric device as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Therefore, it is possible to accurately cope with a serious malfunction or the like in an electrical device, and to improve convenience and security.

  According to the seventeenth aspect of the present invention, as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided, control is performed so as not to turn on the corresponding electric device when the information regarding the state of the predetermined part includes the recall information. Therefore, it is possible to accurately cope with a serious problem or the like in the electric device, and it is possible to improve convenience and security.

  According to the eighteenth aspect of the present invention, compared to the case where the present configuration is not provided, the predetermined part is different for each level when the information on the state of the predetermined part includes recall information provided with a plurality of levels. Therefore, it is possible to take an appropriate response according to the state of the electric device, and to improve convenience and security.

  According to the nineteenth aspect of the present invention, when the frequency of use acquired by the monitoring unit exceeds a preset threshold, compared to a case where the present configuration is not provided, the notification unit sets the predetermined part. Since the information regarding the state is reported, for example, guidance such as replacement of a predetermined part of the electric device can be given to the user at an appropriate time, and convenience and security can be improved.

  According to the twentieth aspect of the present invention, the user is surely related to the state of the electrical device because the information about the state of the predetermined part is notified as compared with the case where the present configuration is not provided. Information can be acquired.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment as an example of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Here, in the accompanying drawings, the same reference numerals are given to the same members, and duplicate descriptions are omitted. In addition, since description here is the best form by which this invention is implemented, this invention is not limited to the said form.

  (First embodiment)

  With reference to FIG. 1 to FIG. 7, a state notification system S1 for an electric device according to a first embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an electrical equipment state notification system S1.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system S1 is extended from a power line L0 for supplying power from the outside, a circuit breaker (breaker) 100 for cutting off power when an overcurrent occurs, and the like, which will be described later. A power line communication unit that performs the communication line by the power line L1 in the house (indoor), a printer E1 as an electric device connected via the branched power line L1, multifunction devices E2 and E3, and print jobs to these electric devices Host devices PC1 and PC2 for transmission, substitute device (personal computer having a power line communication function) A1 serving as an alternative means when a failure or error occurs in the display device of these electric devices, and an alternative device (having a power line communication function) TV) A2 and an alternative device (video deck having a power line communication function) A3.

  Note that the electric devices E1 to E3 in the present embodiment are merely examples, and are not limited thereto, and any electric device having a power line communication function may be used.

  Further, in FIG. 1, reference numerals ID <b> 1 to ID <b> 4 are unique numbers for each outlet and connection point. The distance between the devices can be determined based on the ID1 to ID4. For example, it can be determined that the smaller the difference between two ID numbers is, the closer the distance is.

  Next, the configuration of the printer E1 will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the printer E1 is composed of a microcomputer or the like, and a control determination unit 200 that controls the entire apparatus, and a failure occurs in a predetermined part (each apparatus or the like) in the printer E1 by processing such as a self-diagnosis program. Failure determination device (confirmation means) 201 for determining (confirming) the presence or absence, a printing device 202 for performing print processing based on a print job input from the host computers PC1, PC2, etc., a liquid crystal display panel, an LED display, etc. A display device 203 configured to visually notify a failure occurrence state, a notification device 204 configured to include a speaker, a buzzer, and the like, and an input device 205 configured to include a keyboard. Various interfaces 206 such as USB, a storage device 207 for storing input data from the interface 206, A power line communication unit 208 for transmitting and receiving peripheral device confirmation result information and alternative information, and the like with an external device through the line L1, and a switch 209. performing power on and off.

  Here, power line communication will be described.

  Power line communication is a technology that uses a 100V (50/60 Hz) power line as a communication line, and an electrical outlet (PLC modem (power line communication modem) or PLC (Power Line Communications) card (power line communication card). )) Is connected to an electric device such as a personal computer or a printer, so that a high frequency signal (4 MHz to 28 MHz) is superimposed on the power line, and data communication of several Mbps to several hundred Mbps is possible using the power line as a transmission line. It is.

  The power line communication modem has a function of extracting only digital data from the power line, sending the data to various electric devices, and sending information from the various electric devices to the power line.

  And since electric wiring is stretched around a house or office, it has an advantage that a local communication network can be easily constructed without laying a new cable or the like. In addition, the distribution network of the electric power company can be used as it is as a communication infrastructure, and an Internet connection service is also possible.

  The timing of failure determination by the failure determination device 201 is not particularly limited, but can be periodically performed when the printer E1 is turned on (timing when the switch 209 is turned on) or at a preset time interval. .

  Next, the configuration of the multi-function device E2 (E3) will be described with reference to the block diagram of FIG.

  Note that the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those of the printer E1 described above.

  In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the multifunction peripherals E2 and E3 have the same configuration.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the multi-function device E2 is composed of a microcomputer or the like, and a control determination unit 200 that controls the entire device, and predetermined parts (each device, etc.) in the multi-function device E2 by processing such as a self-diagnosis program. A failure determination device (confirmation means) 201 that determines (confirms) whether or not a failure has occurred, a printing device 202 that performs a printing process based on a print job input from the host computers PC1, PC2, etc., and a scanner device that inputs an image 210, a facsimile apparatus 211 that performs facsimile transmission / reception, a display apparatus 203 that is configured by a liquid crystal display panel, an LED display, and the like, and that visually indicates a failure occurrence state, and a failure occurrence state that is configured by a speaker, a buzzer, and the like. Aurally informing device 204, input device 205 including a keyboard, and various interfaces such as USB. 206, a card slot 212 for inputting data using an IC card or the like, a wireless communication unit 213 for performing wireless communication, a storage device 207 for storing input data from the interface 206 or the like, and an external device via the power line L1. A power line communication unit 208 that transmits / receives peripheral device confirmation result information, alternative information, and the like to / from the device, and a switch 209 that turns the power on and off are configured.

  Here, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 4, a processing procedure of printer control processing executed by the printer E1 will be described.

  In step S100, the switch 209 is turned on to start supplying power to the entire apparatus, and the process proceeds to step S101.

  In step S101, the control determination unit 200 uses the failure determination device 201 to perform detection processing for the presence or absence of a failure at a predetermined part, and the process proceeds to step S102.

  In step S102, it is determined whether or not there is a failure. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S103 to perform a normal operation, and then the process ends.

  In the case of “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S104 to determine whether or not the display device 203 has a failure. In the case of “No”, the process proceeds to step S105 and the display device 203 is used to display a failed part ( After the information related to the predetermined part) is displayed and notified to the user, the process proceeds to step S106.

  In the case of “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S <b> 106 and it is determined whether or not the printing apparatus 202 has a failure.

  If the determination result is “No”, the process proceeds to step S107, and the printing apparatus 202 is used to print out information on the failed part (predetermined part) and notify the user, and then the process proceeds to step S108. To do.

  In step S108, it is determined whether or not it is connected to various interfaces 206. If “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S109 to notify the host devices PC1 and PC2 via the interface 206 such as USB, and in step S110. Migrate to

  If “No”, the process proceeds to step S110 to determine whether or not the network is connected to a network other than power line communication (PLC). If “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S111 and other than power line communication. The alternative devices A1 to A3 are searched using the network, and notification is made using the searched alternative device (for example, the personal computer A1), and the process is terminated.

  If “No” in step S110, the alternative devices A1 to A3 are searched for via power line communication (PLC), and notification is made using the searched alternative device (for example, personal computer A1), and the process ends.

  As a result, even if the part where the failure has occurred in the printer E1 is a notification means such as a display device or a printing device, the searched alternative devices (personal computer A1, television A2, video deck A3, etc.) This can be used to transmit information about the failure to the user, and convenience can be improved.

  Next, the processing procedure of search processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S200, the presence of alternative devices A1 to A3 is inquired by communication (power line communication or other network), and the process proceeds to step S201.

  In step S201, it is determined whether there is an alternative device. If “No”, the process returns to step S200, and if “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S202 to replace the device that has been confirmed to exist. An inquiry is made as to whether display is possible, and it is determined in step S203 whether there is a displayable device.

  If “No”, the process returns to step S200, and if “Yes”, the process proceeds to step S204, and the alternative devices are listed according to the predetermined priority order, and the process proceeds to step S205.

  In step S205, an alternative display (for example, the television A2 etc.) with the highest rank in the list is requested to perform an alternative display, and the process proceeds to step S206.

  In step S206, the display is requested to be erased after a predetermined time has elapsed, and the process proceeds to step S207.

  In step S207, it is determined whether or not there has been a user's reaction until the display is erased. If “No”, the process proceeds to step S208, and the highest-ranked device that has been displayed is deleted from the list, and the next alternative The apparatus is shifted to the highest rank and the process proceeds to step S209.

  In step S209, it is determined whether there is a displayable device. If “Yes”, the process returns to step S205, and if “No”, the process returns to step S200.

  On the other hand, if “Yes” is determined in step S207, the process proceeds to step S210, and it is determined that the notification of information to the user is completed, and the search process is terminated.

  Thereby, since an alternative device is selected based on a predetermined priority order, an alternative device convenient for the user can be searched and guided, and convenience can be improved.

  Next, a processing procedure for priority order determination processing will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S300, it is determined whether or not there are a plurality of host devices PC1 and PC2. If there are a plurality of host devices PC1 and PC2, the log information in the failed device is used, and the number of print jobs received from the corresponding host device is large. They are arranged in order (step S301).

  In step S302, it is determined whether the product is an equivalent product (such as a product having an equivalent function). Since the equivalent product has a similar display function, the priority is set higher than other alternative devices ( Priority 2-X).

  Next, when there are a plurality of devices having an operation function, the priority order is determined based on the size of the display size (priority order 3-X: step S305).

  Since the remaining devices are functions only for display, they are arranged in descending order of display size (priority order 4-X: step S306).

  However, since a device with only a display function cannot receive a reply from the user, if there is a device with a priority (1, 2, 3), it is displayed together with a message indicating that the device should also be turned on (and displayed) If you want to stop the operation, the display will also indicate that the faulty device is turned off.)

  In addition, when there is a thing with the same judgment criterion in the priority order (1, 2, 3, 4), a reply that can be displayed quickly is placed in a higher order.

Here, an example of the priority order in the equivalent apparatus will be described with reference to Table 1.

  For equivalent devices, those that are currently in operation (print, facsimile, scan) are lowered in order of priority so as not to affect the operation being processed. The function order is used as it is.

  As shown in Table 1, since the higher-level model has a better display function, the priority is raised. If it is not possible to distinguish between them, they are arranged in the order in which they are returned as displayable. The order of in-house equivalent devices is determined by this combination.

  In addition, in the equivalent device, there is a case where not only a notification of a malfunction of the display device but also a completely compatible display is possible. In such a case, it is possible to increase the priority order over the host apparatuses PC1 and PC2. In particular, until the repair of the failure is completed, it is possible to make it function as two display devices in a pseudo manner by using the communication function.

  Furthermore, in the equivalent device, it is possible to supplement not only the malfunction of the display device but also the malfunction of other functions. For example, a printing function and a facsimile function can be operated by transferring image data to an alternative device.

Here, Table 2 shows an example of priority order listing.

  Table 2 shows a priority table created using the configuration shown in FIG. As described above, the priority order of the host device and the equivalent product is switched depending on the operation status, so that the alternative display can be performed in a manner that is easy for the user to use, and the convenience can be improved.

  Next, with reference to the block diagram of FIG. 7 and Table 3, a procedure for determining the priority order using the installation location ID in power line communication will be described.

  When power line communication (PLC) is used for communication, for example, an ID or port number may be set for each outlet to which the power line L1 is connected (see FIG. 7).

  In some cases, the installed distance can be achieved using the ID and port number of each outlet.

  In that case, as a superordinate concept of the above-described priority determination method, a rule that gives the highest priority to those connected to different ports of the same outlet ID can be applied.

The priority order when the black circle on the connection in FIG. 1 is considered as an outlet is changed as shown in Table 3, for example.

  In this way, if power line communication is used, it is possible to preferentially display alternative devices A1 to A3 that are as close as possible to an electrical device that is to be notified of failure information, thereby improving user convenience. be able to.

  (Second Embodiment)

  With reference to FIG. 8, FIG. 9, the state notification system S2 of the electric equipment which concerns on 2nd Embodiment about this invention is demonstrated.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the state notification system S2 of the electrical equipment.

  The configuration of the electrical device status notification system S2 is similar to the configuration of the electrical device status notification system S1, and therefore, the same reference numerals are given and description thereof is omitted.

  The electrical device status notification system S2 is different from the electrical device status notification system S1 in that, instead of the IDs 1 to 4, relays 1 to 4 that can set the number of communication packet transfers are provided.

  When power line communication (PLC) is used for communication, it is also possible to use the number of repeaters 1 to 4 that have passed in the confirmation communication of the alternative device.

  An advantage of using the repeaters 1 to 4 is that it is not necessary to make an alternative display request to an alternative device farther than necessary.

For example, in FIG. 8, when the number of repeaters from the printer E1 to the alternative devices A1 to A3 is limited to two, the priorities are as shown in Table 4, and it is possible to determine that distant devices are not eligible. .

  And, for example, in the communication of the substitution confirmation request, when the number that can be passed over the repeater is limited to “2”, communication to the repeaters 2 to 3 is not performed, so unnecessary communication can be reduced. It is.

  As a result, it is possible to guide an alternative device that is relatively close to the user and can improve user convenience.

  Next, the processing procedure of the display request process will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the display request arrives, the requested content is output to the display device (step S400).

  After that, it waits for the user's reaction to the display (step S401), and when there is a user's reaction (in the case of “Yes”), the printer E1 is notified of the reaction content (step S402). After the notification, the message is displayed until a display erasure instruction is received from the user.

  Next, when a display erasure request is received from the printer E1, the alternative display content is erased (step S404: “Yes” in step S403).

  Next, when the timer count for the display request period from the display is completed, it is determined that a time-out has occurred, and the alternative display content is deleted (step S406: “Yes” in step S405). The reason for this processing is that it cannot be determined when the power of the requesting apparatus is turned off.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment and the second embodiment, when the display device in the electrical device such as the printer E1 fails, the alternative devices A1 to 3 are used to perform the alternative display and printout. It is possible to improve user convenience.

  In addition, by searching for an alternative device in which the failed electrical device itself notifies the failure, it is possible to reduce operations such as pre-setting to the storage device and preparation of the server device.

  Further, by using the power line communication function, it is possible to notify the user even if the electric device does not have a general network function.

  Furthermore, in power line communication (PLC), it is also possible to efficiently search for an alternative device installed near the failed electrical device, and give priority to notifications to an alternative device installed relatively nearby. As a result, the convenience of the user can be further improved.

  (Third embodiment)

  With reference to FIG. 10 to FIG. 12, an electrical equipment state notification system S <b> 3 according to a third embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the electrical equipment state notification system S3.

  As shown in FIG. 10, the state notification system S3 of the electrical equipment includes a maker server 300 installed in the maker, a power line communication modem 301 installed in the user building, and an electrical equipment connected to the in-building power line L1. The printer 302 is a kind of printer.

  The printer 302 is configured by a microcomputer or the like, and is configured by a maintenance control device 303 that controls maintenance of the printer 302, a main device 304 that is configured by a printer engine and performs printing processing, a liquid crystal display panel, and the like, and displays various information. And an apparatus (operation panel) 305.

  The maintenance control device 303 includes a power line communication (PLC) circuit 306 that performs power line communication via the in-building power line L1, and a diagnosis circuit 307 that executes a self-diagnosis program and diagnoses a predetermined part. .

  The manufacturer server 300 transmits recall information, maintenance information, and update information of the self-diagnosis check program to the printer 302 of the user whose IP address is acquired and recognized through the Internet network 308.

  As a method for acquiring the recall information, the maintenance information, and the self-diagnosis check program, there is a method in which the printer 302 accesses the manufacturer's server 300 to receive the information, but this configuration is not particularly limited.

  The power line communication modem 301 transmits information received by the Internet network 308 to the maintenance control device 303 of the printer 302 via the building power line L1.

  The maintenance control device 303 is always supplied with power from the time when an outlet (not shown) is connected, and transmits / receives information and cuts off power to the main device 304.

  In particular, the PLC circuit 306 is inoperable when the user tries to start the main device 304 by a power switch (not shown) based on the diagnosis result while transmitting the model information of the device and the IP address for connecting to the manufacturer server. The power is supplied to the display device 305 from the ON state of the power switch of the user regardless of the presence or absence of the diagnosis result independently of the in-device power line L1A to the main device 304. .

  The diagnosis circuit 307 determines whether or not power is supplied to the main device 304 from the recall information, maintenance information, and self-diagnosis check results, determines an error processing method, and determines a notification method to the user.

  The main device 304 prints the details of the recall method, maintenance information, and error information in addition to the normal operation and notifies the user.

  The display device 305 displays a recall method, maintenance information, and error information in addition to the normal operation panel operation, and notifies the user.

  Next, with reference to the flowchart of FIG. 11, the processing procedure of the operation process at the time of the main apparatus standby | waiting performed by state notification system S3 of an electric equipment is demonstrated.

  When the printer 302 is connected to an outlet and power is supplied only to the maintenance control device, the maintenance control device transmits an IP address and model information for connection to the manufacturer server 300 (step S500). Thereby, the maker server 300 can provide information unique to the apparatus.

  Here, there are two methods for receiving (acquiring) information. One is a method in which the manufacturer's server 300 periodically and unilaterally transmits information to the printer 302 to which access has been established, and the other is the method. Although the printer 302 side accesses the maker server 300 and receives information, the present invention does not specifically limit whether the information acquisition method is active or passive.

  Then, the maintenance control device 303 of the printer 302 first checks whether there is recall information from the manufacturer server 300 (steps S501 and S502).

  If the printer 302 is a recall target, it is checked whether the level is a level at which normal operation is possible, that is, whether the printer 302 is operating or not, there is no problem with damage or safety (step S512).

  If there is no problem, the diagnostic circuit 307 stores the recall information, sets the display method, and the printing method (step S513), and operates in operation mode 2 (described later) after the power switch is turned on (step m2).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S512 that there is a problem, the diagnostic circuit 307 performs power cutoff control settings for the main device 304 (step S515), and after the power switch is turned on, the operation in operation mode 1 described later is performed. Perform (step m1).

  If it is determined in step S502 that there is no recall information, the maintenance control device 303 of the printer 302 receives maintenance information from the manufacturer's server 300 (step S503).

  It is updated when there is a change in the maintenance part information that is the target of periodic replacement that has already been set according to the maintenance information or the number of copies printed.

  The diagnostic circuit 307 of the maintenance control device 303 counts and monitors the number of prints of each maintenance part, and compares the result with the maintenance information to check whether there is a part whose upper limit print number has passed (steps S504 and S505). ).

  If it is determined in step S505 that there is a part to be replaced, the diagnostic circuit 307 of the maintenance control device 303 sets a method for storing replacement part information and notifying the user (step S517). The operation in the operation mode 3 is performed (step m3).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S505 that there is no part to be replaced, the maintenance control device 303 of the printer 302 receives the update information of the self-diagnosis check program from the manufacturer's server 300 (step S506) and needs to be updated. If there is, the program stored in advance in the diagnostic circuit 307 of the maintenance control device 303 is updated.

  Next, for self-diagnosis, when the PLC circuit 306 supplies power to the main device 304 in accordance with an instruction from the diagnostic circuit 307 of the maintenance control circuit 303 (step S507), the diagnostic circuit 307 starts self-diagnosis (step S508).

  When the self-diagnosis is completed, the PLC circuit 306 stops the power supply to the main device 304 (step S509).

  Next, if an error is detected in step S510, it is determined whether it is an error level that can be operated by supplying power (step S519). After setting (step S522), after the power switch is turned on, an operation in an operation mode 1 described later is performed (step m1).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S519 that there is no problem with the power supply itself, the diagnostic circuit 307 stores error information and sets a notification method to the user (step S520). The operation in the operation mode 4 is performed (step m4).

  If it is determined in step S510 that the self-diagnosis result has no error, the operation mode 5 described later is performed after the power switch is turned on (step m5).

  Next, with reference to a flowchart of FIG. 12, a processing procedure of operation processing when the main apparatus is turned on will be described.

  The operation after the user turns on the power switch from the outside (step S600) is branched from the operation mode 1 to the operation mode 5 as shown in the flowchart at the time of standby of the main apparatus in FIG.

  In operation mode 1 (step m1), the PLC circuit 306 of the maintenance control device 303 performs control not to supply power to the main device 304 (step S601), so that the main device 304 cannot be operated because power is not supplied. Become. Then, the diagnostic circuit 307 of the maintenance control device 303 has a fatal problem in the display device (operation panel) 305 to which power is separately supplied that does not affect the operation according to the setting information, and the reason why the operation is stopped and the emergency contact information Is displayed and notified to the user (step S602). In this case, since no power is supplied, the device does not enter the ready state.

  In operation mode 2 (step m2), after the printer 302 is displayed on the display device (operation panel) 305 and the details of the recall information and contact information are printed and notified to the user (step S603). After the same information is printed out (step S604), it shifts to a normal ready state (step S605).

  In operation mode 3 (step m3), the display device (operation panel) 305 has a limit on the frequency of use and the parts and contacts that need to be replaced are displayed on the operation panel 305 (step S606) or more detailed information is printed. (Step S607), the user is notified. Thereafter, the normal ready state is entered (step S605).

  In operation mode 4 (step m4), the error detection result and error type are displayed on the display device (operation panel) 305 (step S308), and details of the error are printed (step S609) to notify the user. In this case, normal operation cannot be guaranteed, and the ready state is not entered.

  In operation mode 5 (step m5), the state immediately shifts to a normal ready state.

Here, Table 5 shows an operation example in each case (operation modes 1 to 5).

  In the example shown in Table 5, for example, when there is a connection failure of the high voltage conductive component in the reception information of the recall information, it is determined that there is a risk of fire or electric shock, and the operation mode 1 is set.

  Even if the same recall information is used, if there is a risk of malfunction due to a circuit board malfunction or firmware bug, the operation mode 2 is set to the normal ready state after notifying the user of the recall information. Become.

  Next, when receiving maintenance information, for example, a fixing unit and a pick roller are used as maintenance parts of the printer 302.

  For these parts, the use limit of the number of printed sheets is determined. When the limit is reached, the operation mode 3 is set to the normal ready state after notifying the user that the maintenance replacement time has come.

  The information on the number of sheets is not fixed, and the latest numerical value can always be updated by receiving maintenance information from the manufacturer.

  In the self-diagnosis, when an abnormal temperature rise in the apparatus or the heater is detected by the check program, the operation mode 1 in which the power is cut off because there is a risk of ignition.

  Even when the diagnostic program is stalled and there is no response, since it is not known at all what the situation is in an inoperable state, it becomes the operation mode 1 in which power is cut off to avoid risk.

  When a memory read / write check error occurs, it is not necessary to shut off the power supply, and the operation mode 3 is set to notify the user of the error content.

  In the operation mode 3, the apparatus does not operate normally, so that the normal ready state is not obtained.

Table 6 shows an example in which the recall contents are leveled (for example, two stages A and B).

  In the example shown in Table 6, for example, recall contents are divided into classification A and classification B according to the degree of risk and urgency.

  The classification A is designated when there is a problem in safety, such as when there is a risk of fire or smoke, or when there is a risk of injury, and corresponds to when it is desired to stop the operation immediately. Therefore, in the operation of Table 5 above, the operation mode 1 is emergency stop.

  The classification B does not need to be stopped, but is specified when it is desired to perform repair / replacement in response to a contact from the user because there is some problem.

  In this case, the operation shown in Table 5 is the operation mode 2 in which only the action of notifying the user and prompting for repair / replacement can be performed and the operation can be shifted to the normal operation.

  Information on the classifications A and B can be sent from the server 300 side.

  The printer 302 is associated in advance so that the classification A shifts to the operation mode 1 and the classification B shifts to the operation mode 2. When receiving the recall information from the server 300 side, the printer 302 shifts to each operation mode. It has become.

  Thereby, processing according to the state of the printer 302 can be performed at a more accurate timing, and convenience and security can be improved.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, the latest recall information, maintenance information, and self-diagnosis program can always be updated from the manufacturer's server 300, and the printer 302 can be checked and diagnosed by itself.

  Since the printer 302 itself performs diagnosis and determination based on information received by the printer 302 itself, it is possible to notify the user of detailed information on the problem location, and it is always urgent in cases where it is not necessary to cut off the power. You don't have to stop.

  Conversely, if the device is operated by recall information or self-diagnosis, there is a possibility of failure, or if it is judged dangerous because there is a risk of fire or electric shock, the power can be stopped immediately and safety is ensured. Equipment management functions can be provided, and total services such as recall, maintenance, and diagnosis are possible.

  Also, regarding the recall, unlike the conventional notification method by mail or e-mail based on user registration, communication with the manufacturer's server 300 is reliably established through power line communication when the outlet is connected.

  Furthermore, since it is not influenced by the action after the confirmation result on the user side, it is possible to quickly and forcibly carry out risk avoidance by a recall measure or a power shutdown.

  Regarding the use of a power line for communication with the manufacturer, the main device 304 must be turned on in order to use a communication means such as a network or wireless function included in the function of the main device 304, which may cause fire or electric shock. In the case of a recall, there is a possibility that the power supply itself may be dangerous. However, in the power line communication, the maintenance control device 303 supplies the power if the main device 304 is connected to an outlet independently without turning on the power of the main device 304. Can be used for communication.

  In addition, it is not necessary to inform the manufacturer of personal information for user registration, and unauthorized leakage of personal information can be prevented.

  Further, the maintenance control device 303 that performs power line communication does not require communication means with the main device 304, and the main device 304 is not supplied with power during communication. There is also an effect that information that should not be communicated such as internal data is not accidentally leaked to the outside.

  Although the invention made by the present inventor has been specifically described based on the embodiments, the embodiments disclosed herein are illustrative in all respects and are not limited to the disclosed technology. Should not be considered. That is, the technical scope of the present invention should not be construed restrictively based on the description in the above embodiment, but should be construed according to the description of the scope of claims. All modifications within the scope of the claims and the equivalent technology are included.

  When using a program, it can be provided via a network or stored in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

  An electrical device status notification system and a status notification program according to the present invention include an information processing apparatus such as a personal computer or a host computer having a power line communication function, a laser printer having a power line communication function, a full-color printer, a multifunction machine, an inkjet printer, The present invention can be applied to a facsimile machine, a home appliance having a power line communication function, and the like.

It is a block diagram which shows the structure of state alerting | reporting system S1 of the electric equipment which concerns on 1st Embodiment. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer E1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a multifunction machine E2 (E3). FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of printer control processing. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a search process. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a priority determination process. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of installation location ID. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of state alerting | reporting system S2 of the electric equipment which concerns on 2nd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of a display request process. It is a block diagram which shows the structure of state alerting | reporting system S3 of the electric equipment which concerns on 3rd Embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the operation | movement process at the time of a main apparatus standby. It is a flowchart which shows the process sequence of the operation process at the time of power-on of a main apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

S1 to S3 Status notification system for electrical equipment E1 Electrical equipment (printer)
E2 Electrical equipment (multifunction machine)
E3 Electrical equipment (multifunction machine)
A1 Alternative device (personal computer: alternative means, notification means)
A2 Alternative device (TV: alternative means, notification means)
A3 Alternative device (video deck: alternative means, notification means)
PC1, PC2 Host device L1 Power line 100 Circuit breaker 200 Control determination unit (control means, search means, analysis means)
201 Failure judgment device (confirmation means)
202 Printing device (notification means, printing means)
203 Display device (notification means, display means)
204 Notification device (notification means)
205 Input device 206 Various interfaces 207 Storage device 208 Power line communication unit (communication means, power line communication means)
209 Switch 210 Scanner device 211 Facsimile device 212 Card slot 213 Wireless communication unit 300 Manufacturer server 301 Power line communication modem (communication means, power line communication means)
302 Printer 303 Maintenance control device (control means)
304 Main device (printing means)
305 Display device (operation panel: notification means, display means)
306 PLC circuit 307 Diagnostic circuit (confirming means)
308 Internet network

Claims (20)

A communication means for transmitting and receiving predetermined information;
Confirmation means for confirming the state of a predetermined part of the electrical equipment;
An informing means for informing information about the state of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirmation means via the communication means;
A state notification system for an electrical device, comprising:   2. The state notification system for an electrical device according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit is configured by a power line communication unit that transmits and receives the predetermined information via a power line.   The state of the predetermined part confirmed by the confirmation means includes the presence or absence of a failure occurrence state or an error occurrence state for the predetermined part. Electrical equipment status notification system. Search means for searching, via the communication means, for alternative means for making a notification instead of the notification means when the predetermined part whose failure occurrence state or error occurrence state has been confirmed by the confirmation means is the notification means When,
Control means for transmitting and notifying information about the failure to the alternative means searched by the search means via the communication means;
The state notification system for an electrical device according to claim 3. The informing means is composed of display means capable of displaying predetermined information,
5. The electric appliance status notification system according to claim 4, wherein the alternative means includes a home electric appliance having the communication means and a function for displaying information related to the failure transmitted via the communication means. . The notification means is constituted by a printing means capable of printing predetermined information,
5. The electrical apparatus status notification according to claim 4, wherein the alternative unit includes an image forming apparatus including the communication unit and a function of printing information on the failure transmitted via the communication unit. system.   The electrical device according to any one of claims 4 to 6, further comprising an analysis unit that analyzes a distance to the alternative unit and a position of the alternative unit based on information from the communication unit. Status notification system.   8. The electric device according to claim 7, wherein identification information is given in advance for each of the alternative means that can be searched by the search means, and the analysis means grasps the distance and position based on the identification information. Status notification system.   9. The state notification system for an electrical device according to claim 7, further comprising registration means for previously registering the distance to the alternative means and the position.   5. The apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising priority order determining means for determining a priority order based on a predetermined determination criterion as to which alternative means is to be used when a plurality of the alternative means are searched by the search means. The state notification system of the electric equipment in any one of Claim 9.   The system according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion relating to a function included in each of the alternative means.   The system according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined criterion is a criterion based on a usage history of each alternative means.   The system according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion relating to a response speed of each of the alternative units via the communication unit.   The system according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined determination criterion is a criterion based on a distance to each alternative means and a position of the alternative means.   15. The electrical apparatus status notification system according to claim 1, wherein the confirmation unit includes an information acquisition unit configured to acquire information on a state of a predetermined part via the communication unit. .   The information on the state of the predetermined part acquired by the information acquisition unit includes at least one of recall information, maintenance information, and information on a diagnostic program of the electric device. Equipment status notification system.   The information notification system for an electric device according to claim 16, wherein when the information on the state of the predetermined part includes the recall information, control is performed so as not to turn on the power of the corresponding electric device.   17. The electricity according to claim 16, wherein when the information related to the state of the predetermined part includes recall information provided with a plurality of levels, control is performed so as to perform predetermined processing different for each level. Equipment status notification system. The confirmation unit includes a monitoring unit that monitors the use frequency of the predetermined part,
18. The information on the state of the predetermined part is notified by the notification unit when the use frequency acquired by the monitoring unit exceeds a preset threshold value. The state notification system of the electric equipment in any one. A communication process for transmitting and receiving predetermined information;
A confirmation process for confirming the state of a predetermined part of the electrical equipment;
An informing process for informing information on the state of the predetermined part confirmed in the confirmation process;
The state notification program of the electric equipment characterized by making a calculating means perform.

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