JP2009294477A - Setting information-imparting device, image processor, consumable unit, and setting information-imparting method - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a setting information-imparting device or the like for imparting functional setting information to an image processor, by which a service staff or the like performs functional setting of the image processor without performing setting operation, and proper manufacture of consumable units used for the image processor for every destination and stock control thereof can be eliminated. <P>SOLUTION: The setting information-imparting device 23 is provided in the image processor 1 or the consumable unit 14 attached to the image processor in a replaceable manner, and used to impart the functional setting information to the image processor 1. The device 23 includes: a radio communication means capable of performing radio communication with an external communication device 70; a cable communication means connected to the image processor and capable of performing cable communication; a storage means 102; and writing means 103 and 104 writing the functional setting information transmitted from the external communication device and received by the radio communication means into the storage means. Writing of the functional setting information transmitted from the external by radio communication into the storage part 102 is inhibited after the functional setting information is written into the storage part 102. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2010,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention provides an image processing apparatus such as an image forming apparatus or a consumable unit that is replaceably attached to the image processing apparatus, and a setting information adding apparatus for adding function setting information to the image processing apparatus. The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, a consumable unit, and a setting information provision method including the provision apparatus.

  In the image processing apparatus, for example, a consumable unit such as an imaging unit including a toner cartridge and a photosensitive drum is replaceably mounted. For such consumable units, the destination differs depending on the country or region to which the product is shipped, and accordingly, the functions installed in the image processing apparatus are also set differently for each destination. Yes.

  In general, a non-volatile memory is mounted on the consumable unit, and information for setting the function of the image processing apparatus is written in the memory. The image processing apparatus stores the information written in the memory of the mounted consumable unit. The function setting corresponding to the destination of the consumable unit is read out.

  Conventionally, the function setting information is written in the memory of the consumable unit as described above at the production stage before the consumable unit is packed. That is, consumable units in which different function setting information is written for each destination are created and packed, and inventory management is performed for each consumable unit thus created.

  On the other hand, with respect to the image processing apparatus, there are cases in which the user of the ordering party individually desires unique function settings using options or the like. In this case, conventionally, a service person or a user performs setting work at the time of setting up the apparatus, or a user acquires a license relating to the function via a network and performs setting.

Conventionally, a part of the IC tag is configured to be separable, and a part of the IC tag is separated as necessary, thereby restricting or releasing the function or restricting accessible data in the IC tag. Such a technique is known (for example, see Patent Document 1).
JP 2006-31110 A

  However, if a consumable unit in which different function setting information is written for each destination is created and packed as in the case of conventional consumable units, inventory management is performed for each consumable unit that has been created There is a drawback that production management and inventory management become more complicated each time the number increases.

  In addition, when the user of the ordering party wants to individually set unique functions using options or the like, the setting work by the service person or user may be a burden on the user or service person, or purchase of an image processing apparatus. There was a drawback that the device could not be used immediately.

  It is also conceivable to perform function setting work at the service center instead of the user. In this case, the image processing apparatus is unpacked before it reaches the user and the apparatus is operated. There was a fear of doing.

  The technique described in Patent Document 1 does not provide a solution to such a problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and is capable of setting a function of an image processing apparatus without performing a setting operation by a service person or a user, and is directed to a consumable unit used for the image processing apparatus. The present invention provides a setting information adding device for adding function setting information to an image processing apparatus that can eliminate the need for separate creation and inventory management, and further includes an image processing apparatus and a consumable unit provided with the setting information adding device, and It is an object to provide a setting information providing method.

The above problem is solved by the following means.
(1) A setting information providing device that is provided in an image processing device or a consumable unit that is replaceably attached to the image processing device, and for assigning function setting information to the image processing device, and wirelessly communicates with an external communication device. Wireless communication means capable of communication, wired communication means connected to the image processing apparatus and capable of wired communication, storage means, and function setting information transmitted from the external communication apparatus and received by the wireless communication means A writing means for writing to the storage means, and a prohibiting means for prohibiting writing of the function setting information transmitted from the outside by wireless communication to the storage means after writing the function setting information to the storage means. The function setting information stored in the storage means is read out via the wired communication means connected to the image processing apparatus when the image processing apparatus is powered on. Setting information applying apparatus characterized by being.
(2) When the packed image processing apparatus or the consumable unit is unpacked, the prohibiting unit is configured such that a part of the components of the wireless communication unit is mechanically separated and wireless communication is disabled. 2. The setting information providing apparatus according to item 1, wherein writing to the storage unit is prohibited.
(3) The setting information providing apparatus according to (1), wherein the prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by performing write prohibition setting to the storage unit when the image processing apparatus is initially energized.
(4) The prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by electrically separating a part of the components of the wireless communication unit when the image processing apparatus is initially energized. Setting information adding device.
(5) The setting information providing apparatus according to (1), wherein the prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by setting the storage unit to be read-only.
(6) An image processing apparatus comprising the setting information providing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
(7) A consumable unit comprising the setting information providing device according to any one of claims 1 to 5.
(8) Setting information for an image processing apparatus using a setting information providing apparatus provided in an image processing apparatus or a consumable unit that is replaceably attached to the image processing apparatus and for assigning function setting information to the image processing apparatus A method for providing, comprising: receiving function setting information transmitted from an external communication device by wireless communication; writing the received function setting information in a storage unit; and after writing the function setting information in the storage unit A step of prohibiting the writing of the function setting information transmitted from the outside by wireless communication to the storage means, and a step of reading the function setting information stored in the storage means when the image processing apparatus is turned on. A setting information providing method characterized by that.

  According to the invention described in item (1) above, the wireless communication means capable of wireless communication with an external communication device is provided, and function setting information transmitted from the external communication device and received by the wireless communication device is stored. Therefore, the function setting information can be written after the image processing apparatus or the consumable unit is packed. Therefore, since products having the same specification can be manufactured and inventory management can be performed, it is possible to eliminate the need for separate production and inventory management for each destination.

  In addition, after the function setting information is written to the storage means, writing of the function setting information transmitted from the outside by wireless communication to the storage means is prohibited, so that the function setting information is newly written by a third party or the like. Can be prevented.

  In addition, when the image processing apparatus is powered on, the function setting information stored in the storage unit is read out via the wired communication unit connected to the image processing apparatus. Therefore, the function setting of the image processing apparatus can be performed without the serviceman or the user, and the user can use the image processing apparatus promptly.

  According to the invention described in (2) above, when the packed image processing apparatus or consumable unit is unpacked, some of the components of the wireless communication means are mechanically separated, and wireless communication is disabled. As a result, writing to the storage means is prohibited.

  According to the invention described in item (3) above, writing to the storage unit is prohibited by setting write prohibition to the storage unit when the image processing apparatus is first energized.

  According to the invention described in item (4) above, when the image processing apparatus is initially energized, writing to the storage unit is prohibited by electrically separating some of the components of the wireless communication unit.

  According to the invention described in item (5) above, writing to the storage unit is prohibited by setting the storage unit to read-only.

  According to the invention described in item (6) above, an image processing apparatus capable of setting functions without being serviced by a service person or a user can be provided.

  According to the invention described in the preceding item (7), the function setting information can be written after the consumable unit is packed, so that products having the same specification can be manufactured and inventory management can be performed. It can be a consumable unit that can eliminate the need for inventory management.

  According to the invention described in item (8), the function setting information can be written after the image processing apparatus or the consumable unit is packed. Therefore, since products having the same specification can be manufactured and inventory management can be performed, it is possible to eliminate the need for separate production and inventory management for each destination. In addition, the function can be set without any serviceman or user.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram showing an image forming apparatus as an image processing apparatus in which a setting information providing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention is used. In this embodiment, an MFP (Multi Function Peripherajs), which is a multi-function digital multifunction peripheral having a copy function, a printer function, a facsimile function, and the like, is used as the image forming apparatus.

  In FIG. 1, the image forming apparatus 1 includes a printer (engine) unit 20, a scanner unit 40, and a document conveying device 50, which have a well-known configuration. Will be described together with the operation.

  When there is a print start request from an image controller (not shown), the printer unit 20 feeds the paper in the paper feed set 15 by the paper feed roller 2 and transports it along the paper feed path 3. The sheet to be conveyed waits at a position detected by the timing sensor 30 in the conveyance path.

  On the other hand, the transfer belt drive roller 9 is driven to rotationally drive the transfer belt 8 hung between the transfer belt drive roller 9 and the opposing roller 6.

  On the lower side of the transfer belt 8, four image forming process units (imaging units) 11Y, 11M, and 11C corresponding to the respective colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). 11K are arranged in parallel, and each color image is formed on the transfer belt 8 by the image forming process units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K as the transfer belt 8 rotates.

  As is well known, the process units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K are configured by transfer cycle components such as the photosensitive drums 12Y, 12M, 12C, and 12K and a developing device (not shown). When 12M, 12C, 12K, etc. reach the end of their life, they are consumable units that are replaced with new ones. Reference numerals 13Y, 13M, 13C, and 13K denote exposure apparatuses for exposing the photosensitive drums 12Y, 12M, 12C, and 12K.

  In addition, toner cartridges 14Y, 14M, 14C, and 14K that store toners corresponding to the colors of the process units are disposed in proximity to the process units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K. These toner cartridges 14Y, 14M, 14C, and 14K are also consumable units that are replaced with new toner cartridges when the toner is consumed.

  When the position of the image formed on the transfer belt 8 reaches the position of the secondary transfer roller 5 as the transfer belt 8 rotates, the conveyance of the sheet is started by the timing roller 4 in accordance with the timing. The front end position and the image position on the transfer belt 8 are controlled to coincide with each other.

  By applying a transfer voltage (about +2000 V) to the secondary transfer roller 5 on the image on the transfer belt 8, the toner (for example, negatively charged toner) forming the image is transferred to the opposing roller 6 and the secondary transfer roller. 5 is transferred onto the paper passing through the paper 5. The transferred toner image is fixed on the paper by the fixing roller 7.

  The horizontal transport unit 60 is a transport mechanism for transporting the fixed paper to the paper discharge tray 10, and the horizontal transport unit 60 is provided with a horizontal transport unit sensor 61 for detecting the paper passing therethrough. It has been.

  The scanner unit 40 can be opened and closed so that jamming can be performed when a jam occurs in the horizontal conveyance unit 60. The scanner unit 40 is provided with a scanning unit 41 having a CCD (not shown) and an exposure lamp 41a for reading an image of the document, and scans the document image placed on the platen glass 42 to scan the document. Read the image.

  A document transport device 50 for automatically transporting a document is installed above the scanner unit 40. The document conveying device 50 conveys the document loaded on the tray 51 to the reading position 43 of the scanner 40, reads the document image while conveying the document, and discharges it to the document discharge tray 53. It has become.

  The document image data read by the scanner unit 40 and the document conveying unit 50 is sent to a scanner controller (not shown) and subjected to image processing by the image controller. The processed image data is output to the printer unit 20 when a copy operation is designated using the operation panel unit 16 (FIG. 2). When a scanning operation is designated, it is converted into image data and output. Furthermore, when a fax operation is designated, fax transmission is performed.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an electrical configuration of the printer unit 20 in the image forming apparatus 1.

  In FIG. 2, the printer unit 20 includes an image control unit 21, a printer control unit 22, and a setting information adding device 23.

  The image control unit 21 includes, for example, a CPU 21a for controlling image processing, a ROM 21b that stores an operation program, a RAM 21c that provides a work area when the CPU 21a operates, and an interface (I / F) unit 21d. And.

  The image control unit 21 is connected to the scanner unit 40, the document conveying device 50, the operation panel unit 16, the network, and the fax line via the interface unit 21d, and controls image data processing. .

  The printer control unit 22 includes, for example, a CPU 81 for controlling a printing operation, a ROM 82 that stores an operation program, and a RAM 83 that provides a work area when the CPU 81 operates, and the image forming apparatus 1. In addition to receiving the various sensor signals 24, a motor control signal 25 for controlling motors in various places and a process control signal 26 for forming an image are transmitted to perform predetermined control.

  The setting information providing device 23 is set to be able to perform wireless communication with the external communication device 70 having the antenna 71 and to be able to perform wired communication with the printer control unit 22. As also shown, a setting information storing memory element 91, a wireless communication antenna 92, and a wired communication connector 93 are provided. The memory element 91, the antenna 92 for wireless communication, and the connector 93 for wired communication are mounted on the wiring board 23a.

  The memory element 91 is configured as an IC tag having a non-volatile memory or the like, and stores function setting information such as a function setting value unique to the image forming apparatus 1 and various adjustment values. The wireless communication antenna 92 is connected so that wireless communication can be performed with the device 70.

  The memo element 91 is also connected to a wired communication connector 93 so that wired communication can be performed with the printer control unit 22.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the setting information providing device 23.

  In FIG. 4, the memory element 91 in the setting information providing device 23 includes an interface (I / F) unit 101 for the printer control unit 22, a storage unit 102, a control unit 103, an encode / decode unit 104, and a transmission. (Modulation) section 105, reception (demodulation) section 106, and power supply section 107 are provided.

  The I / F unit 101 performs I / F conversion for realizing serial transmission by wire with the printer control unit 22 of the image forming apparatus 1, and the connector 93 constitutes a wired communication unit 300. Yes.

  The control unit 103 performs overall control of the setting information adding device 23. For example, the control unit 103 performs setting of writing and reading with respect to the storage unit 102 according to received data recognized by the encoding / decoding unit 104, and the storage unit 102. For example, a write prohibit flag is set.

  The encoding / decoding unit 104 converts the information stored in the storage unit 102 into a signal and sends it to the transmission unit 105 at the time of transmission, and converts the received signal into a signal and sends it to the control unit 103 at the time of reception. .

  The transmission unit 105 transmits the signal transmitted from the encoding / decoding unit 104 to the external communication device 70 via the antenna 92.

  The receiving unit 106 receives a signal from the external communication device 70 via the antenna 92. The transmission unit 105, the reception unit 106 and the antenna 92 constitute a wireless communication unit 200 for the external communication device 70.

  The power supply unit 107 stores power based on a resonance electromotive force generated in the antenna 92 by a signal from the external communication device 70 to ensure operating power.

  Such wireless communication by the memory element 91 is performed by the same operation as the RFID tag. First, when the setting information providing device 23 receives a radio wave from the external communication device 70 via the antenna 92, an electromotive force is generated due to resonance at the antenna 92. By this electromotive force, the power supply unit 107 is charged, and power is supplied to the storage unit 102 and the like.

  Information stored in the storage unit 102 is symbolized by the encoding / decoding unit 104, modulated by the transmission unit 105, and transmitted to the external communication device 70 via the antenna 92.

  When the external communication device 70 receives a signal from the setting information providing device 23, the external communication device 70 transmits a signal for communicating with the setting information providing device 23, function setting information, and a write prohibition signal to the setting information providing device 23. To do. The signal and information are received and demodulated by the receiving unit 106 via the antenna 92 of the setting information adding device 23, converted into a signal by the encoding / decoding unit 104, recognized, and sent to the control unit 103. Based on the received data recognized by the encoding / decoding unit 104, the control unit 103 writes or reads function setting information to the storage unit 102, sets a flag for prohibiting writing to the storage unit 102, or the like. Perform the process.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when setting information is written in the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 in a non-energized state of the image forming apparatus 1 before shipment.

  In FIG. 5, the image forming apparatus 1 is in a state of being packed after being assembled with the specifications of the standard installed function. In step S <b> 1, it is determined whether or not an order has been received from an orderer such as a user. If not (NO in step S1), the process returns to step S1 to wait for an order.

  If there is an order (YES in step S1), in step S2, it is determined whether there is a request for addition of an optional function, a request for a license function, or a customization specification (customization setting).

  The optional functions include, for example, a PDF conversion function for converting a read image into a PDF file, a character recognition processing (OCR) function, a user authentication function, a network function, and the like, as shown in FIG. A standard function is a function that can be added separately, and is set in the form of a license key.

  Further, for example, as shown in FIG. 6, the customized specification is selected for each user such as changing the display language of the operation panel unit 13, changing the standard paper size, changing the paper thickness, standard print image quality, energy saving, and toner saving. It is a function that can be set.

  If there is no request for each function (NO in step S2), the process proceeds to step S5, and after processing for prohibiting external writing by wireless communication is performed, the standard specification is shipped and shipped to the orderer.

  If an optional function is added or a customized specification is requested (YES in step S2), in step S3, whether the unique information (serial number) held by the image forming apparatus 1 is designated by the external communication device 70 to match. Check if. If they do not match (NO in step S3), the confirmation is repeated until they match. If they match (YES in step S3), in step S4, function setting information corresponding to addition of an optional function or customization specifications is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information adding device 23. The transmitted function setting information is received via the wireless communication means 200 and written into the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 via the encoding / decoding unit 104 and the control unit 103.

  Next, in step S <b> 5, a write prohibition setting signal is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information providing device 23. When receiving the setting signal via the wireless communication unit 200, the setting information providing device 23 sets a flag for prohibiting external writing by the control unit 103 or the like. Specifically, setting is made so that function setting information transmitted from the encoding / decoding unit 104 or the like is not accepted. Thereafter, the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped and shipped.

  As described above, after the function setting information is written in the setting information providing device 23, the setting for prohibiting external writing by wireless communication is performed. Writing is prohibited. In this embodiment, when function setting information is written from the external communication device 70, by confirming that the unique data of the image forming apparatus 1 matches, the setting information adding apparatus of a different image forming apparatus 1 can be used even in the packaged state. 23 can be prevented from being erroneously written.

  When the image forming apparatus 1 that is an ordering device arrives at the orderer, the setting information providing device 23 has already written the desired function settings and the like, so the user uses the image forming apparatus 1 immediately after unpacking. be able to. Specifically, when the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on, the control unit 103 reads the function setting information stored in the storage unit 102 via the wired communication unit 300 connected to the image forming apparatus. To the image forming apparatus 1.

  7 to 10 show another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 1 is unpacked, some of the components of the wireless communication unit 200 existing on the setting information providing device 23 side are mechanically separated from the setting information providing device 23 to prevent wireless communication. By making it possible, writing is prohibited.

  FIG. 7 is a perspective view showing the setting information providing device 23 in the above embodiment. The same parts as those in FIG.

  In this embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, the memory element 91 and the antenna 92 are configured to be separated by a virtual cutting line l.

  Here, at least a part of the antenna 92 is connected to the packaging material of the image forming apparatus 1, and the antenna 92 is separated from the memory element 91 side by unpacking the packaging material. That is, the writing prohibiting means is configured by the packing material, the virtual cutting line l and the like. Thereby, it is possible to prohibit writing of function setting information by wireless communication to the setting information providing device 23 after unpacking.

  FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the setting information providing device 23 in FIG. 7. The same parts as those in FIG.

  As shown in FIG. 7, in the embodiment in which some of the components of the wireless communication means are mechanically separated when unpacking, the control unit in the memory element 91 of the setting information providing device 23 is shown in FIG. 103 does not need to exist, and the data signaled by the encoding / decoding unit 104 in response to a signal from the external wireless communication device 70 is directly written into the storage unit 102.

  In other words, in the memory element 91, when a radio wave is received from the external wireless communication device 70 via the antenna 92, an electromotive force is generated due to resonance in the antenna 92, and the power source 107 is stored by the electromotive force, and the memory Power is supplied to the unit 102 and the like. The information stored in the storage unit 102 is symbolized by the encoding / decoding unit 104, modulated by the transmission unit 105, and transmitted to the external wireless communication device 70 via the antenna 92.

  When the external communication device 70 receives a signal from the setting information providing device 23, the external communication device 70 transmits signal burned brain setting information for communication to the setting information providing device 23 via the antenna 71. In the setting information providing device 23, the signal and information received via the antenna 92 are demodulated by the receiving unit 106 and converted into a signal by the encoding / decoding unit 104 and recognized. Based on the received data recognized by the encoding / decoding unit 104, the function setting information is written into the storage unit 102 and the information is read out.

  When the ordering user unpacks the packaging material of the image forming apparatus 1, the antenna 92 is connected to the packaging material, so the virtual cutting line 1 is cut and the antenna 92 is separated from the memory element 91 side. That is, after unpacking, unintentional writing from the outside to the storage unit 102 is prohibited.

  On the other hand, the setting information stored in the storage unit 102 is read directly from the image forming apparatus 1.

  FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when setting information is written in the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 in the packaging state of the image forming apparatus 1 in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8.

  In FIG. 9, in step S11, it is determined whether or not an order has been received from the user. If there is no order (NO in step S11), the order is awaited.

  If there is an order (YES in step S11), it is determined in step S12 whether an optional function is added or a license function is requested. If there is no request for each function (NO in step S12), the process ends. The image forming apparatus 1 is shipped and shipped to the orderer with standard specifications.

  If an optional function is added or a license function is requested (YES in step S12), in step S13, the unique information (serial number) held by the image processing apparatus 1 is designated and matched via the external communication device 70. Check whether or not. If they do not match (NO in step S13), the confirmation is repeated until they match. If they match (YES in step S13), in step S14, function setting information such as optional function additional information and license information is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information adding device 23 in the packaging state of the image forming apparatus 1. To do. The transmitted function setting information is received via the wireless communication means 200 and written into the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 via the encoding / decoding unit 104. Thereafter, the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped and shipped.

  FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the orderer who received the image forming apparatus 1 when the function setting information is written or not written according to the flowchart of FIG.

  In some cases, it is better for the ordering party to make customization settings after confirming the local situation, depending on the actual usage method and usage environment. In that case, the function setting information required by the orderer is written.

  In step S21, it is determined whether there is a customization setting request at the user site.

  If there is a request for customization setting (YES in step S21), in step S22, the service person designates the unique information (serial number) held by the image forming apparatus 1 via the external communication device 70 to determine whether or not they match. If they do not match (NO in step S22), the check is repeated until they match. If they match (YES in step S22), function setting information corresponding to the customization setting is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information providing device 23 in step S23. The transmitted function setting information is received via the wireless communication means 200 and written to the storage unit 102 via the encoding / decoding unit 104.

  Thereafter, in step S24, when the user unpacks the packaging material of the image forming apparatus 1, the virtual cutting line 1 in the setting information providing apparatus 23 is cut, and the antenna 92 is cut off from the memory element 91 side. This prohibits writing to the storage unit 102 by wireless communication after unpacking.

  If there is no request for customization setting in step S21 (NO in step S21), the process proceeds to step S24 as it is, and when the user unpacks the antenna 92, the writing to the storage unit 102 is prohibited.

  As described above, since the necessary function setting information has already been written before unpacking, the image forming apparatus 1 can be used immediately after unpacking. Specifically, when the image processing apparatus is powered on, the function setting information stored in the storage unit 102 is directly read out by the image forming apparatus 1 via the wired communication unit 300 connected to the image processing apparatus. It is.

  11 to 13 are flowcharts showing still another embodiment of the present invention. In this embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 1 is energized for the first time when the power is turned on, writing to the storage unit 102 is prohibited by setting the writing prohibition of the function setting information. The configuration of the setting information providing device 23 used in this embodiment is the same as that shown in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when function setting information is written in the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 in the packaging state of the image forming apparatus 1.

  In FIG. 11, in step S31, it is determined whether or not an order has been received from the user. If there is no order (NO in step S31), the system waits for an order.

  If there is an order (YES in step S31), in step S32, it is determined whether there is a request for customization specifications (customization settings) such as addition of an optional function or a request for a license function. (NO in step S32), the process ends as it is, and the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped and shipped to the ordering source with the standard specifications.

  If there is a request for customization specifications (YES in step S32), in step S33, the unique information (serial number) held by the image forming apparatus 1 is specified via the external communication device 70 to confirm whether or not they match. . If they do not match (NO in step S33), the confirmation is repeated until they match. If they match (YES in step S33), in step S34, the function setting information corresponding to the customized specifications is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information providing device 23 in the packaging state of the image forming apparatus 1. The transmitted function setting information is received via the wireless communication means 200 and written into the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 via the encoding / decoding unit 104 and the control unit 103. Thereafter, the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped and shipped.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed by the orderer who received the image forming apparatus 1 when function setting information is written or not written according to the flowchart of FIG.

  In step S41, it is determined whether there is a customization setting request at the user site.

  If there is no request for customization setting (NO in step S41), the process ends as it is, and the image forming apparatus 1 is unpacked. If there is a request for customization setting (YES in step S41), in step S42, the unique information (serial number) held by the image forming apparatus 1 is designated to check whether they match, and if they do not match (step S42). NO) and repeat the check until they match. If they match (YES in step S42), function setting information corresponding to the customization setting is transmitted from the external communication device 70 to the setting information providing device 23 in step S43. The transmitted function setting information is received via the wireless communication means 200 and written into the storage unit 102 of the setting information adding device 23 via the encoding / decoding unit 104 and the control unit 103. Thereafter, the user unpacks the image forming apparatus 1.

  In the unpacked image forming apparatus 1, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 13, writing to the setting information adding device 23 is prohibited when the image forming apparatus 1 is energized when the power is turned on for the first time.

  That is, the initial power supply flag is set to “1” when the image forming apparatus 1 is shipped. In FIG. 13, when the user turns on the power in step S51, in step S52, the image forming apparatus 1 determines whether or not the initial power flag is set to “1”.

  If the initial power supply flag is not set to “1” (“0” in step S52), the process ends as it is. If the initial power supply flag is set to “1” (“1” in step S52), in step S53, it is recognized that the image forming apparatus 1 has been energized for the first time and the use is started, and control of the setting information adding device 23 is performed. The unit 103 prohibits writing by wireless communication from the external communication device 70 by a method such as setting a write prohibition flag, sets the initial power supply flag to “0”, and then ends.

  When the initial power supply flag is set to “0”, the write prohibition process is not performed when the power is turned on, and a normal startup operation is performed.

  FIG. 14 is a perspective view of the setting information providing device 23 showing another example of prohibiting writing from the external communication device 70 when the initial power supply flag is set to “1” when the image forming apparatus 1 is turned on for the first time. FIGS. 15A and 15B are also block diagrams showing the electrical configuration of the setting information providing device 23. The same parts as those in FIGS. 3 and 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

  14 and 15, in the setting information providing device 23, a memory element 91 and the antenna 92 are electrically connected on a wiring board 23a via a cutting circuit 110 such as a fuse. The cutting circuit 110 is cut by a cutting signal (for example, a large current signal) from the printer control unit 22 of the image forming apparatus 1.

  FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the setting information providing apparatus 23 according to still another embodiment. The same parts as those in FIGS. 3 and 4 are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 16, the control unit 103 in the setting information providing device 23 energizes from the printer control unit 22 on the image forming apparatus 1 side via the wired communication unit 300 when the image forming apparatus 1 is energized for the first time at the orderer. In response to the detection signal, the storage unit 102 is set to read only (write prohibited). This prohibits writing of function setting information to the storage unit 102 by wireless communication.

  In this embodiment, not only writing by wireless communication but also writing based on a writing request by wired communication from the image forming apparatus 1 is prohibited, so that the reliability of writing prohibition is improved.

  By the way, in each of the embodiments, the example in which the setting information providing device 23 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 has been described. However, the process units 11Y, 11M, 11C, and 11K that are replaceably mounted on the image forming apparatus 1 and toner cartridges. Even if the setting information providing device 23 is mounted on a consumable unit such as 14Y, 14M, 14C, or 14K, the same effect is exhibited.

  FIG. 17 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which the setting information providing device 23 is mounted on a consumable unit, for example, a toner cartridge 14 that is replaceably mounted on the image forming apparatus 1.

  No function setting information is written in the storage unit 102 at the time of production of the toner cartridge 14, and it is not made separately for each destination. In the state where the toner cartridge 14 is packed at the time of shipment, function setting information such as setting for shipping and photoconductor specific characteristic information is written in the storage unit 102 by wireless communication by the external wireless communication device 70. Writing is performed in the same manner as the setting information adding device 23 mounted on the image forming apparatus 1.

  When the cartridge 14 is commonly used by a plurality of models, the model information used by the user who has received the order and the function setting information suitable for the model are written, so that when the cartridge 14 is mounted on the image forming apparatus 1, the image is displayed. It is possible to cause the forming apparatus 1 to perform optimal function settings.

  After the function setting information is written, writing by wireless communication is prohibited. The writing prohibition may be performed based on a signal from the external communication device 70 as in the case where the image forming apparatus 1 is mounted, or by mechanical separation of the wireless communication unit 200 when the toner cartridge is unpacked. It may be performed by prohibition, or may be performed based on a signal transmitted from the image forming apparatus 1 by wire when the image forming apparatus 1 is initially energized or when the toner cartridge is first energized.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram illustrating an image processing apparatus equipped with a setting information providing apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which similarly shows the electrical structure of an image processing apparatus. It is a perspective view which shows an example of a setting information provision apparatus. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of a setting information provision apparatus. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when setting information is written in a storage unit of the setting information providing apparatus in a non-energized state of the image forming apparatus before shipment. It is a table | surface which shows an example of function setting information. It is a perspective view which shows the setting information provision apparatus which concerns on other embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which similarly shows the electrical structure of a setting information provision apparatus. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when setting information is written in a storage unit of the setting information adding apparatus in the packaging state of the image forming apparatus in the embodiment shown in FIGS. 7 and 8. FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing performed by an orderer who has received the image forming apparatus 1 when function setting information is written or not written according to the flowchart of FIG. 9. 14 is a flowchart illustrating still another embodiment of the present invention and a process flow when setting information is written in a storage unit of the setting information providing apparatus in a packaged state of the image forming apparatus. 12 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed by an orderer who received the image forming apparatus when function setting information is written or not written according to the flowchart of FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing when power is supplied with the power supply turned on for the first time in order to use the image forming apparatus 1 at the orderer. It is a perspective view which shows the setting information provision apparatus which concerns on further another embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the setting information provision apparatus shown in FIG. It is a block diagram which shows the electric constitution of the setting information provision apparatus which concerns on further another embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a perspective view illustrating an example in which a setting information providing device is mounted on a toner cartridge as a consumable unit that is replaceably mounted on the image processing apparatus.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Image processing apparatus 11Y, 11M, 11C, 11K Process unit 14, 14Y, 11M, 11C, 11K Toner cartridge 23 Setting information provision apparatus 70 External communication apparatus 92 Antenna 102 Storage part 103 Control part 200 Wireless communication means 300 Wired communication means 400 ···parts

Claims (8)

A setting information providing device that is provided in an image processing device or a consumable unit that is replaceably attached to the image processing device, and for assigning function setting information to the image processing device,
A wireless communication means capable of wireless communication with an external communication device;
A wired communication means connected to the image processing apparatus and capable of wired communication;
Storage means;
Writing means for writing the function setting information transmitted from the external communication device and received by the wireless communication means to the storage means;
Prohibiting means for prohibiting writing of the function setting information transmitted from the outside by wireless communication after the writing of the function setting information to the storage means;
With
Setting information provision, wherein the function setting information stored in the storage means is read out via the wired communication means connected to the image processing apparatus when the image processing apparatus is powered on apparatus.   The prohibiting unit is configured to store the memory by disabling wireless communication when a part of the components of the wireless communication unit is mechanically separated when the packed image processing apparatus or the consumable unit is unpacked. The setting information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein writing to the means is prohibited.   The setting information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by performing a write prohibition setting to the storage unit when the image processing apparatus is initially energized.   The setting information according to claim 1, wherein the prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by electrically separating a part of the components of the wireless communication unit when the image processing apparatus is initially energized. Granting device.   The setting information providing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the prohibiting unit prohibits writing to the storage unit by setting the storage unit to be read-only.   An image processing apparatus comprising the setting information providing apparatus according to claim 1.   A consumable unit comprising the setting information providing device according to claim 1. A method for providing setting information to an image processing apparatus using a setting information providing apparatus that is provided in an image processing apparatus or a consumable unit that is replaceably attached to the image processing apparatus and that provides function setting information to the image processing apparatus. There,
Receiving function setting information transmitted by wireless communication from an external communication device;
Writing the received function setting information into the storage means;
Prohibiting writing of the function setting information transmitted from the outside by wireless communication to the storage means after the function setting information is written to the storage means;
Reading the function setting information stored in the storage means when the image processing apparatus is powered on;
The setting information provision method characterized by having provided.

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