JP2018064195A - Transmission device and image forming apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce time and effort required for re-transmission of a transmission job in which a communication error occurs.SOLUTION: A transmission device comprises: a display panel; an operation part; a communication part; a storage part; and a control part. The control part causes the communication part to transmit image data to a preset destination, and causes the storage part to non-volatilely store a history of the executed transmission jobs. The history includes destinations, image data for transmission that are image data that have been or were to be transmitted, and transmission results. The control part displays the history on the display panel as a list. The control part displays, in the list, a re-transmission button for part of the history in which a communication error occurs. When the re-transmission button is operated, the control part causes the communication part to transmit the image data for transmission included in the part of the history (history to be re-transmitted) for which the re-transmission button is operated, to a destination included in the history to be re-transmitted.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

  The present invention relates to a transmission device that includes a display panel, an operation unit, and a communication unit, and transmits image data. The present invention also relates to an image forming apparatus including the transmission device.

  There is an apparatus for transmitting image data such as a facsimile apparatus. To send, it is necessary to set a destination. If an incorrect destination is set (input), it is necessary to reset the destination and retransmit the image data. Depending on the contents of transmission, resetting the destination may be troublesome. An example of a technique for improving the troublesomeness of resetting a destination is described in Patent Document 1.

  Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes a facsimile apparatus that can change only the transmission destination designated by the keyboard 8 when broadcast transmission is performed when the transmission destination input by the keyboard 8 is wrong. . With this configuration, it is attempted to change only the designated transmission destination without deleting all input transmission destinations for broadcast transmission (Patent Document 1: Abstract, Claim 1, Paragraph [0004]. ]). The broadcast transmission is a function that allows a plurality of destinations to be set and sequentially transmits the same image to the plurality of destinations.

JP 2000-029644 A

  An image forming apparatus such as a multifunction machine, a copier, or a FAX apparatus can transmit image data. That is, some image forming apparatuses have a transmission job execution function. The user sets items and destinations related to the transmission job. For example, items such as resolution and transmission method are set. After completing the setting, the transmission job is executed.

  In a transmission job, a communication error (transmission error) may occur. When a communication error occurs, communication may end without all information being transmitted to the other party. In this case, retransmission is necessary. In order to retransmit, the user needs to perform the operation for reproducing the setting of the transmission job in which the communication error has occurred from the beginning (re-operation). However, there are cases where a large number of items are set due to the high functionality of the image forming apparatus. When a communication error occurs, there is a problem in that it takes time to perform a retransmission setting operation (retransmission work). Some users feel that re-sending work is troublesome.

  With the technique described in Patent Document 1, the destination of broadcast transmission can be changed. However, this is not a technique related to retransmission of a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred. Further, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when the user does not notice an error, the process is continued with an incorrect destination. Moreover, there is no description regarding simplification of the retransmission work. Therefore, the technique described in Patent Document 1 cannot solve the above problem.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above problems of the prior art, and reduces the time and effort required to retransmit a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred.

  In order to solve the above problem, a transmission device according to a first aspect includes a display panel, an operation unit, a communication unit, a storage unit, and a control unit. The display panel displays a screen and an image. The operation unit accepts a transmission job destination setting and a transmission job execution instruction. The communication unit transmits data. The storage unit stores data. When the execution of the transmission job is instructed, the control unit causes the communication unit to transmit image data to the destination set by the operation unit, and the history of the executed transmission job is stored in the storage unit in a nonvolatile manner. The history is stored, and the destination includes transmission destination image data that is image data that has been or has been transmitted, and a transmission result. When an operation for displaying the history list of each executed transmission job is performed on the operation unit, the control unit displays the list on the display panel. The control unit displays a retransmission button for the history having a communication error among the histories included in the list. When the retransmission button is operated, the control unit directs the transmission image data included in the retransmission target history that is the history of the retransmission button to the destination included in the retransmission target history. Transmit to the communication unit.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a transmission apparatus and an image forming apparatus that require less time and effort to retransmit a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the home screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the destination setting screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the software keyboard screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the address book screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the destination registration screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the memory | storage of the log | history in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history list in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history list in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the log | history list in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the process at the time of retransmission button operation concerning embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of the process at the time of the retransmission unnecessary button operation concerning an embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the resending object error which concerns on embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of a process of automatic deletion of the image data for transmission which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the display of the resend button in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the display of the resend button in the transmitter which concerns on embodiment.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In the following description, an image forming apparatus including the transmission device 10 will be described. The image forming apparatus will be described using the multifunction peripheral 100 as an example. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Multifunction machine 100)
First, the multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a multifunction peripheral 100 according to the embodiment.

  The multifunction machine 100 includes a control unit 1, a storage 21, and an operation panel 3. The control unit 1 controls each unit of the multifunction device 100. The control unit 1 includes a CPU 11, an image processing unit 12, a ROM 22, and a RAM 23. The CPU 11 performs various calculations and processes. The CPU 11 controls each unit of the multifunction machine 100. The image processing unit 12 is an ASIC and performs image processing on image data. The image processing unit 12 generates image data used for jobs such as printing and transmission.

  The multi-function device 100 includes a storage 21. The storage 21 is a part of the storage unit 228. The storage 21 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device such as an HDD. The storage 21 is communicably connected to the control unit 1. The storage unit 2 includes a nonvolatile storage device such as a ROM 22 and a storage 21 and a volatile storage device such as a RAM 23. The storage unit 2 stores data. The CPU 11 performs calculations and processing based on programs and control data stored in the ROM 22, RAM 23, and storage 21.

  The multi-function device 100 includes a document conveying unit 4a and an image reading unit 4b. A document is set on the document transport unit 4a. The control unit 1 automatically and continuously conveys the document one by one to the document conveying unit 4a. The document is conveyed toward a reading position (feed reading contact glass, not shown). The control unit 1 causes the image reading unit 4b to read a document transported by the document transport unit 4a and a document set on a placement reading contact glass (not shown). The image reading unit 4b generates image data of the read document.

  The printing unit 5 is provided inside the multifunction device 100. The printing unit 5 includes a paper feeding unit 5a, a paper transport unit 5b, an image forming unit 5c, and a fixing unit 5d. The printing unit 5 performs printing according to user settings on the operation panel 3. During printing, the control unit 1 causes the paper supply unit 5a to supply paper. The control unit 1 causes the supplied paper to be transported to the paper transport unit 5b. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to form a toner image based on the image data. The control unit 1 causes the image forming unit 5c to transfer the toner image onto the conveyed paper. The control unit 1 causes the fixing unit 5d to heat and press the sheet on which the toner image is transferred. As a result, the toner image is fixed on the paper. The paper after fixing is discharged out of the machine.

  The control unit 1 is connected to the communication unit 6. The communication unit 6 transmits and receives data. The communication unit 6 includes a network communication unit 61 and a facsimile communication unit 62. The multifunction peripheral 100 can communicate with the computer 200 and the FAX apparatus 300 by the network communication unit 61 and the facsimile communication unit 62. The network communication unit 61 includes a connector for network communication and a chip for communication control. The network communication unit 61 communicates with a computer 200 such as a PC or a server via a communication network. The facsimile communication unit 62 includes a connector for facsimile communication, a modem, and a communication circuit. The facsimile communication unit 62 communicates with the FAX apparatus 300 via a telephone line network. Accordingly, the communication unit 6 can transmit image data based on document reading to the computer 200 or the FAX apparatus 300 (transmission job).

  The control unit 1 performs control related to the operation panel 3. The operation panel 3 includes a display panel 31, a touch panel 32, and a plurality of hard keys 33. The touch panel 32 and the hard key 33 function as an operation unit. The control unit 1 controls display on the display panel 31. The display panel 31 displays screens, messages, and images related to jobs such as printing and scanning. The display panel 31 displays an operation image. The operation image is an image for operation such as a soft key, a button, a tab, a check box, and a radio button.

  A touch panel 32 is provided for the display panel 31. The control unit 1 is connected to the touch panel 32. Based on the output of the touch panel 32, the control unit 1 recognizes the operated operation image (operation position). Thereby, the control part 1 recognizes a user's operation content. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a screen corresponding to the operated operation image.

  The operation panel 3 includes a plurality of hard keys 33. Each hard key 33 is connected to the control unit 1. For example, the hard key 33 is provided with a start key and a numeric keypad. The start key is a key for instructing job execution. The numeric keypad is a key for inputting numbers such as the number of copies and numbers. The control unit 1 recognizes an operation on the hard key 33. The operation panel 3 receives setting operations and job execution instructions by the user. Based on the signals from the touch panel 32 and the hard keys 33, the control unit 1 recognizes the operation content (setting content) of the user.

(Send job settings)
Next, a transmission job setting example on the operation panel 3 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the home screen 71 according to the embodiment. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the destination setting screen 72 according to the embodiment. FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating an example of the software keyboard screen 73 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the address book screen 74 according to the embodiment. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the destination registration screen 75 according to the embodiment.

  The home screen 71 shown in FIG. 2 is the highest screen in the hierarchy. The control unit 1 displays the home screen 71 on the display panel 31 at the following times. For example, when the MFP 100 (operation panel 3) is activated by turning on the main power, when the power saving mode is canceled, when a predetermined auto-reset time elapses without any operation after the user's operation, When the operation is completed, when the operation for displaying the home screen 71 is performed, the home screen 71 is displayed.

  The control unit 1 displays a plurality of job selection keys K1 in the home screen 71. The job selection key K1 is a software key for selecting the type of job to be executed. A job type (function) such as a copy job, a scan transmission job, a FAX transmission job, or a box job can be selected by operating the job selection key K1. Of the job selection keys K1, the scan transmission key K1a and the FAX transmission key K1b are keys for selecting a transmission job.

  In the case of a scan transmission job or a FAX transmission job, the original is read by the original conveying unit 4a and the image reading unit 4b. Image data obtained by reading is transferred to the RAM 23. The image processing unit 12 performs image processing on the image data obtained by reading. The control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit the image data processed by the image processing unit 12 toward the destination set on the operation panel 3. In this way, a part of the multifunction device 100 functions as the transmission device 10. The multi-function device 100 includes a transmission device 10. For example, the transmission device 10 includes a control unit 1, a storage unit 2, an operation panel 3 (display panel 31, touch panel 32, hard key 33), and communication unit 6.

  Various settings relating to the transmission job can be made on the operation panel 3. For example, setting values can be set for items such as resolution and color settings. The destination can also be set on the operation panel 3. When the operation unit (touch panel 32 or hard key 33) receives a predetermined operation, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a destination setting screen 72. FIG. 3 shows an example of the destination setting screen 72. The user sets a destination on the destination setting screen 72.

  The transmission apparatus 10 (multifunction device 100) can perform electronic mail, folder transmission, and facsimile transmission. When image data is transmitted by electronic mail, the destination is a mail address. Folder transmission is a transmission method compliant with the SMB protocol or FTP protocol. In folder transmission, image data can be transmitted to a shared folder on a PC or a folder on an FTP server. When performing folder transmission, the destination is the path of the save destination folder. When performing facsimile transmission, the destination is a facsimile number.

  The destination can be set by manually inputting the destination. On the destination setting screen 72, a mail key K2, a folder key K3, and a facsimile key K4 are arranged. The mail key K2 corresponds to electronic mail transmission. The folder key K3 corresponds to folder transmission. The facsimile key K4 corresponds to facsimile transmission. When the touch panel 32 receives an operation on any one of the mail key K2, the folder key K3, and the facsimile key K4, the control unit 1 displays the software keyboard screen 73 on the display panel 31. FIG. 4 shows an example of the software keyboard screen 73. By operating each key arranged on the software keyboard screen 73, the user inputs one of a mail address, a pass, and a facsimile number as a destination.

  It is also possible to set a destination by selecting a destination (address book data) stored (registered) in a nonvolatile manner in the storage unit 2. When the address book key K5 is operated, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the address book screen 74. FIG. 5 shows an example of the address book screen 74. The control unit 1 displays the destination list 7 a in the address book screen 74. The control unit 1 displays information related to one destination in one line of the destination list 7a. The type of destination (transmission method), address, and destination (address information) are included in one line. A check box 7b is arranged at the left end of each row. The user puts a check in the check box 7b of the destination line to which image data is to be transmitted. FIG. 5 shows a state in which the check box 7b in the second row of the destination list 7a is checked. When the OK key K6 is operated in the state of FIG. 5, the control unit 1 recognizes that the mail address of the support unit has been selected. The control unit 1 recognizes the mail address of the support unit as the destination of the transmission job.

  When the scroll bar arranged on the right side of the address book screen 74 is operated, the control unit 1 scrolls the destination list 7a. The control unit 1 displays other registered destinations in the destination list 7a. A menu key K 7 is arranged on the address book screen 74. By operating the menu key K7, the registered destinations to be displayed in the destination list 7a can be narrowed down by the type of destination and the initials of the destination.

  Addresses can be added to or changed from the address book data. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of the destination registration screen 75. When a predetermined operation is performed on the operation panel 3, the control unit 1 displays a destination registration screen 75 on the display panel 31. On the destination registration screen 75, items such as destination name, SMB, mail address, facsimile number, and FTP are displayed. Each item is provided with a change key K8. When the change key K8 is operated, the control unit 1 displays the software keyboard screen 73 on the display panel 31. This makes it possible to set the destination name, mail address, path, facsimile number, and the like of the destination to be registered.

  The control unit 1 displays the destination input using the touch panel 32 and the hard key 33 in the destination display column 7c. In one transmission job, a plurality of destinations can be selected (set). For example, a plurality of check boxes 7b can be checked on the address book screen 74 to set a plurality of destinations. Further, another destination can be input on the software keyboard screen 73 in a state where one destination is set.

  The destination setting screen 72 is provided with a destination number display field 7d. The control unit 1 displays the set destination number in the destination number display field 7d. FIG. 3 shows an example of a state when four destinations are set. The type of transmission (destination type) may not be the same. That is, a mail address, a path, and a facsimile number can be set as destinations at the same time. When a plurality of destinations are set, the control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to perform broadcast transmission. Broadcast transmission is a job for transmitting the same contents (similar images) to a plurality of destinations. That is, the operation unit accepts broadcast transmission settings for transmitting the same image data to a plurality of destinations.

(Memory of history 8)
Next, an example of the storage of the history 8 in the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a flow of storing the history 8 in the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of the history 8 according to the embodiment.

  The start in FIG. 7 is the time when the transmission job is started. For example, it is the time when the hard key 33 (start key) is operated. In other words, it is the time when the operation unit receives an instruction to execute a transmission job. That is, the operation unit (touch panel 32, hard key 33) accepts a transmission job destination setting and a transmission job execution instruction. Each time the transmission job is executed, the flow of FIG. 7 is executed. Therefore, the history 8 (data regarding the transmission job) is stored in the storage unit 2 for each transmission job.

  First, the control unit 1 selects one unsent destination from the set destinations (step # 11). At the time of broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 selects one destination from a plurality of destinations. When it is not broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 selects one set destination.

  The control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to perform transmission based on the transmission image data toward the destination set by the operation unit (step # 12). For example, connection (establishment of a session) is performed with the server related to transmission, the computer 200, and the exchange. If there is no problem with the connection, the communication unit 6 transmits the image data for transmission to the destination device.

  From the start to the end of image data transmission, the control unit 1 checks whether or not a communication error has occurred (step # 13). If a communication error has occurred (Yes in step # 13), the control unit 1 stops transmission of image data to the selected destination (step # 14). When a communication error occurs, the control unit 1 may perform a retry. Retry is a process for re-executing the image data transmission process. If the transmission is not successful even after a predetermined number of retries, the control unit 1 returns Yes in step # 13.

  If no communication error has occurred (No in step # 13), the control unit 1 checks whether or not the transmission has been completed (step # 15). When communication is still in progress (No in step # 15), the flow returns to step # 12. On the other hand, after step # 14 or when transmission is completed without error (Yes in step # 15), control unit 1 checks whether transmission to all destinations is completed (step # 16). . That is, the control unit 1 confirms whether the transmission job is completed. If transmission to all destinations is not completed by broadcast transmission, Step # 16 is No. When the number of destinations is one and when transmission to all destinations of broadcast transmission is completed, Step # 16 becomes Yes.

  When step # 16 is No, the flow returns to step # 11. When step # 16 is Yes, the control unit 1 stores the transmission job history 8 in a nonvolatile manner in the storage unit 2 (step # 17 → end). For example, the control unit 1 stores the transmission job history 8 in the storage unit 2 in a nonvolatile manner. The control unit 1 stores the history 8 in the storage 21. The history 8 may be stored in the ROM 22. FIG. 8 shows an example of the history 8. For example, the control unit 1 stores the job number, transmission image data, destination, transmission date / time, type, and transmission result in the storage unit 2 as the history 8.

  The job number is a number generated by the control unit 1. For example, the job number is a serial number. In the case of the transmission job executed for the 100th time, the control unit 1 sets 100 as the job number. The image data for transmission is image data transmitted or about to be transmitted by a transmission job. The image data for transmission is image data in which the setting of the transmission job on the operation panel 3 is reflected. The transmission image data is data that has been subjected to image processing by the image processing unit 12 based on the settings made on the operation panel 3. For example, when 2 in 1 (page aggregation) is set, the image data for transmission is in a state where two pages of images are included in one page.

  The control unit 1 stores the destination set by the user in the storage unit 2 as the history 8. In the case of broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores a plurality of destinations. If it is not broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores one destination. Further, the control unit 1 stores the transmission date / time in the storage unit 2 as the history 8. The transmission date and time is when transmission starts or when transmission is completed. In order to know the date and time, the control unit 1 is provided with a timer unit 13 (see FIG. 1). The timer unit 13 is a clock (Real Time Clock). In the case of broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores the transmission date and time for each destination. If it is not broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores one transmission date and time.

  The control unit 1 stores the type of transmission in the storage unit 2 as the history 8. The control unit 1 stores the transmission type (method) corresponding to the destination. It is recorded whether transmission is performed by e-mail transmission, folder transmission, or facsimile transmission. In the case of broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores a type for each destination. If it is not broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores one type.

  The control unit 1 stores the transmission result in the storage unit 2 as the history 8. The control unit 1 stores the success or failure of the transmission job as a transmission result. When the transmission is successful, the control unit 1 stores a transmission result indicating success. When transmission fails due to a communication error (at step # 14), the control unit 1 stores a transmission result indicating a communication error. In the case of broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores a transmission result for each destination. If it is not broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 stores one transmission result.

  Here, when a communication error occurs, the control unit 1 recognizes the content of the communication error. In the case of electronic mail, the control unit 1 may recognize the content of the communication error based on a response from the network to the request transmitted from the communication unit 6. An error mail may be returned from the mail server. The control unit 1 may recognize the content of the communication error in the e-mail transmission based on the returned error mail. For example, the control unit 1 does not have a destination name (user name), does not have an account, does not have a host name, has full destination mailbox capacity, cannot access the mail server, and does not access the destination mail server (network Recognize the content (reason) of a communication error such as

  In the case of folder transmission, the control unit 1 may recognize the content of the communication error based on a response from the network to the request transmitted from the communication unit 6. Further, the control unit 1 may recognize the content of the communication error based on a reply from the server regarding folder transmission. The control unit 1 recognizes the content (reason) of a communication error such as the absence of a storage location, the absence of a destination (shared folder), and the occurrence of a server connection error.

  In the case of facsimile transmission, the control unit 1 may recognize the content of the communication error based on the response from the receiving side device or the network to the request transmitted from the communication unit 6. For example, the control unit 1 recognizes the content (reason) of a communication error such as a line connection time-out when the telephone line is not connected, the other party is talking, the other party's fax machine is set to be unreceivable, and the other party is not a fax machine. To do.

  As described above, the control unit 1 includes at least each destination, a transmission result (error content) for each destination, and transmission image data in the broadcast transmission transmission job history 8. Further, the control unit 1 recognizes the content (reason, detail) of the communication error based on the communication content of the communication unit 6, the standard according to the communication type, and the protocol according to the communication type. The control unit 1 stores the content of the recognized communication error in the storage unit 2 as a communication result.

(Display of list 7e)
An example of the list 7e of the history 8 in the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 9 to 11 are diagrams illustrating an example of the list 7e of the history 8 in the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment.

  A list 7e of the history 8 of each executed transmission job can be displayed on the display panel 31. When a predetermined operation (display operation) for displaying the list 7e is performed, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the list 7e. 9 to 11 show an example of the list 7e.

  As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the contents of the transmission job are displayed in one line of the list 7e. The control unit 1 displays the list 7e based on the history 8 stored in the storage unit 2. The control unit 1 is provided with a plurality of columns in one row of the list 7e. The control unit 1 displays the job number, transmission date / time, type, destination, and transmission result of one transmission job in each column in the row. A history 8 of up to five transmission jobs is displayed in one screen. When the scroll bar arranged on the right side of the list 7e is operated, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the history 8 of other transmission jobs.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of a state in which only the transmission job history 8 in which no communication error has occurred is displayed. Also, as shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the control unit 1 displays in the list 7e that the broadcast transmission has been performed. That is, the control unit 1 includes the character string “broadcast transmission” in the destination column of the history 8 of the transmission job that performed the broadcast transmission. One of a plurality of destinations is displayed on the right side of the broadcast transmission character string.

  FIG. 10 shows an example when the history 7 of the transmission job in which the communication error has occurred is included in the list 7e. In other words, FIG. 10 shows a display example of the history 8 of a transmission job that has been canceled due to a communication error. In the list 7e of FIG. 10, the transmission job with the job number 00109 is a transmission job with one destination. When there is one destination, the control unit 1 displays a character string of “success” or “error” in the transmission result column according to the presence or absence of a communication error. In the list 7e of FIG. 10, the transmission job with the job number 00111 is a broadcast transmission transmission job. Regarding the broadcast communication history 8, when there is no communication error destination, the control unit 1 displays a character string “success” in the transmission result column. When there is at least one communication error destination, the control unit 1 displays a character string of “error” in the transmission result column.

  The control unit 1 displays a retransmission button 91 and a retransmission unnecessary button 92 with respect to the history 8 in which a communication error has occurred (transmission result history 8) in the history 8 included in the list 7e. In other words, for the history 8 including the transmission image data, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92. The control unit 1 displays each button in the list 7e. As shown in FIGS. 9 to 11, the control unit 1 makes the height of the row of the history 8 with the communication error wider than the history 8 without the communication error. The control unit 1 displays each button below each column of the history 8 having a communication error.

  When the resend button 91 is operated, the control unit 1 communicates the transmission image data included in the history 8 (resend target history 8) in which the resend button 91 is operated toward the destination included in the resend target history 8. The data is transmitted to the unit 6 (details will be described later). The retransmission button 91 is an image for instructing transmission of image data for transmission to a destination in a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred. Details of when the retransmission button 91 is operated and when the retransmission unnecessary button 92 is operated will be described later.

  The details of the broadcast transmission history 8 can be confirmed. In this case, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 11, the user touches the broadcast transmission row (display position) in the list 7e. The operation unit (touch panel 32) accepts a touch on a row as an operation for selecting a specific history 8. Subsequently, as shown in the upper diagram of FIG. 11, the user touches the display position of the detail key K9. When the detail key K9 is operated, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a detail screen of the selected history 8. The lower diagram in FIG. 11 shows an example of a detailed screen of the history 8.

  The control unit 1 refers to the selected history 8 (data). Then, the control unit 1 displays the transmission date / time, type, destination, and transmission result of each transmission destination on the detailed screen of the broadcast transmission history 8. The user can confirm the destination where the communication error has occurred. When the close key K10 arranged on the detail screen is operated, the control unit 1 stops displaying the detail screen. Then, the control unit 1 displays the original screen on the display panel 31. That is, it returns to the state of the upper figure of FIG.

(Flow of processing when resend button 91 is operated)
An example of the flow of processing when the retransmission button 91 according to the embodiment is operated will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow when the retransmission button 91 is operated according to the embodiment.

  The start of FIG. 12 is the time when the resend button 91 in the list 7e is operated. First, the control unit 1 confirms whether or not the history 8 (the retransmission target history 8) in which the retransmission button 91 is operated is the broadcast transmission history 8 (step # 21).

  At the time of broadcast transmission (Yes in step # 21), the control unit 1 sets a destination in which a communication error has occurred among the destinations included in the retransmission target history 8 of the broadcast transmission as a destination to be retransmitted (step # 22). ). When it is not broadcast transmission (No in Step # 21), the control unit 1 sets one destination included in the retransmission target history 8 as a retransmission destination (Step # 23). For example, the control unit 1 stores the set retransmission destination in the RAM 23.

  After step # 22 and step # 23, the control unit 1 sets the image data for transmission included in the retransmission target history 8 as image data to be transmitted (step # 24). For example, the control unit 1 reads transmission image data to be retransmitted into the RAM 23. Then, the control unit 1 displays the destination setting screen 72 on the display panel 31 (step # 25). That is, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the destination setting screen 72 for setting the destination of the transmission image data before transmitting the transmission image data (see FIG. 3).

  A communication error may occur due to a destination setting error. The user can change the retransmission destination set on the displayed destination setting screen 72. By step # 25, the user can correct an incorrect destination. The operation unit accepts the destination setting on the destination setting screen 72. Therefore, control unit 1 confirms whether or not the destination to be retransmitted has been changed (step # 26). When the destination to be retransmitted is changed (Yes in step # 26), the control unit 1 sets the changed destination (new destination) as the destination to be retransmitted (step # 27). When the destination to be retransmitted is not changed (No in step # 26), step # 27 is skipped. That is, the control unit 1 maintains the destination set at step # 22 and step # 23.

  Eventually, when an instruction to start retransmission is given, such as operation of a start key, the control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit image data for transmission toward the set destination (step # 28). Then, this flow ends (END). When the destination is changed, the control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit image data for transmission toward the new destination set on the destination setting screen 72 instead of the destination in which the communication error has occurred. When the destination is not changed, the control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit image data for transmission toward the destination that has previously caused a communication error. Step # 25 to step # 27 may be skipped. In this case, the transmission image data is transmitted to the destination where the communication error has occurred in the retransmission target history 8 simply by operating the retransmission button 91.

(Flow of processing when resending unnecessary button 92 is operated)
Next, an example of the flow of processing when the retransmission unnecessary button 92 according to the embodiment is operated will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a processing flow when the retransmission unnecessary button 92 according to the embodiment is operated.

  The control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a retransmission unnecessary button 92 for the history 8 having a communication error among the history 8 included in the list 7e. The start of FIG. 13 is the time when the retransmission unnecessary button 92 is operated.

  First, the control unit 1 causes the storage unit 2 to delete image data for transmission included in the history 8 corresponding to the operated retransmission unnecessary button 92 (step # 31). Then, the control unit 1 deletes the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92 for the history 8 in which the retransmission unnecessary button 92 has been operated in the list 7e (step # 32). Thereafter, the control unit 1 prevents the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92 from being displayed in the list 7e for the history 8 in which the retransmission unnecessary button 92 is operated. That is, the control unit 1 displays the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92 only for the history 8 in which the transmission image data is included in the history 8.

(Retransmission target error)
Next, an example of an error targeted for automatic retransmission of transmission image data according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating an example of a retransmission target error according to the embodiment.

  The control unit 1 recognizes the content of the communication error that has occurred. The control unit 1 includes the content of the generated communication error in the history 8 (transmission result). Therefore, the control unit 1 may display the retransmission button 91 only for the history 8 in which a predetermined error (retransmission target error) has occurred. In this case, when displaying the list 7e, the control unit 1 determines the history 8 including the retransmission target error among the history 8 having the communication error. The control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the retransmission button 91 only in the transmission job history 8 in which the retransmission target error has occurred. As a result, only the transmission job in which a specific error has occurred can be retransmitted by the retransmission button 91.

  The storage unit 2 stores the retransmission target error data D1 in a nonvolatile manner (see FIG. 1). The retransmission target error data D1 is data defining a communication error to be handled as a retransmission target error. The retransmission target error data D1 can be stored in the storage 21 or the ROM 22. FIG. 1 shows an example in which the retransmission target error data D1 is stored in the storage 21. The control unit 1 refers to the retransmission target error data D1.

  FIG. 14 shows an example of retransmission target error data D1. For example, an error that causes the error cause to be eliminated as time passes can be set as a retransmission target error. In other words, a communication error that is likely to be correctly conveyed by retransmission can be set as a retransmission target error. For example, in facsimile transmission, a communication error may occur when the counterpart device is busy. When the call is finished, the counterpart device is ready to receive. In addition, when an e-mail is transmitted, a communication error may occur if the power of the receiving mail server is turned off. If the power of the mail server is turned on due to the end of maintenance or the like, the electronic mail can be received. In addition, in folder transmission, a communication error may occur when the image data storage destination PC or server is turned off. When the device is turned on, the image data can be received (stored). In the retransmission target error data D1 in FIG. 14, these communication errors are defined as retransmission target errors. That is, the error to be retransmitted can include a Busy error or a destination nonexistent error.

  It is possible to appropriately determine what kind of communication error is a retransmission target error. The operation unit accepts an operation for determining a communication error as a retransmission target error. In accordance with this operation, the control unit 1 updates the retransmission target error data D1.

(Processing flow when the transmission image data retransmission unnecessary button 92 is operated)
Next, an example of a process flow of automatic deletion of transmission image data according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a process flow of automatic deletion of transmission image data according to the embodiment.

  When a communication error occurs, some countermeasure such as retransmission is taken before the history 8 becomes old. In general, the older history 8 is less often referred to. It can be said that the older the history 8 is, the less it is necessary to include the transmission image data.

  The start of the flowchart of FIG. 15 is the determination point of automatic deletion of transmission image data. The determination time is predetermined. The determination time can be set as appropriate. The operation unit accepts the setting at the time of determination. For example, the determination time points are: when the main power of the multi-function device 100 (transmission device 10) is turned on, when returning from the power saving mode, at a fixed time of the day (for example, 12:00), or at a fixed time of a certain day of the week (for example, every Monday 12 o'clock).

  The control unit 1 confirms the history 8 in which a predetermined holding period has elapsed from the transmission date and time (step # 41). The control unit 1 confirms the transmission date and time included in each history 8. Then, the control unit 1 recognizes the history 8 that has passed the holding period. The holding period can be set as appropriate. The operation unit may accept the setting of the holding period. For example, the retention period can be one day, several days, tens of days, tens of days, one week, several weeks, one month, several months, half a year, and one year. Other periods may be used. Then, the control unit 1 causes the storage unit 2 to delete the transmission image data included in the history 8 after the retention period has passed (step # 42). As a result, it is possible to delete image data for transmission that is less likely to be reused.

(Display of resend button 91 for broadcast transmission history 8)
Next, an example of the display of the retransmission button 91 for the broadcast transmission history 8 in the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 16 and 17. 16 and 17 are diagrams illustrating an example of a display of the retransmission button 91 on the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment.

  In broadcast transmission, it is necessary to operate the detail key K9 when checking the transmission result of each destination. Therefore, the transmission apparatus 10 can distinguish whether the number of occurrences of communication errors is large or small in the list 7e. Specifically, regarding the broadcast transmission history 8 and the history 8 in which a communication error has occurred, the control unit 1 increases the display size of the retransmission button 91 as the number of communication error destinations increases. In other words, when a plurality of destinations are included in the history 8 having a communication error, the control unit 1 changes the size of the retransmission button 91 according to the number of occurrences of the communication error.

  In the list 7e shown in FIGS. 16 and 17, the history 8 displayed on the first line is the broadcast transmission history 8. The history 8 displayed on the first line is the history 8 in which a communication error has occurred. 16 and FIG. 17 differ in the size of the retransmission button 91. Specifically, the retransmission button 91 in FIG. 17 has a larger size (wide width) than the retransmission button 91 in FIG. The number of destinations in which communication errors have occurred is greater in the broadcast transmission shown in FIG. 17 than in the broadcast transmission shown in FIG. For example, in the broadcast transmission shown in FIG. 16, a communication error has occurred in one of a plurality of destinations. In the broadcast transmission shown in FIG. 17, a communication error occurs in two or more of a plurality of destinations.

The reference size (reference width) of the retransmission button 91 when there is one communication error is determined in advance. Moreover, the addition range per case is determined in advance. In the broadcast transmission, when the number of occurrences of communication errors is greater than one, the control unit 1 obtains the size (horizontal width) of the retransmission button 91 using the following formula.
(Expression) Size = Reference size + (Addition width x (Number of occurrences of communication errors-1))
Thereby, the larger the number of occurrences of communication errors, the larger the size of the retransmission button 91. Note that the size of the retransmission button 91 may be determined by a method other than the above. In broadcast transmission, the control unit 1 may reduce the display size of the retransmission unnecessary button 92 as the number of occurrences of communication errors increases. It can be emphasized that there are many communication errors.

  As described above, the transmission device 10 according to the embodiment includes the display panel 31, the operation unit (touch panel 32, hard key 33), the communication unit 6, the storage unit 2 (ROM 22, RAM 23, storage 21), and the control unit 1. The display panel 31 displays a screen and an image. The operation unit accepts a transmission job destination setting and a transmission job execution instruction. The communication unit 6 transmits data. The storage unit 2 stores data. When the execution of the transmission job is instructed, the control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit the image data toward the destination set by the operation unit, and the history 8 of the executed transmission job is stored in the storage unit 2 in a nonvolatile manner. The history 8 includes a destination, transmission image data that is transmitted or about to be transmitted, and a transmission result. When an operation for displaying the list 7e of the history 8 of each executed transmission job is performed on the operation unit, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display the list 7e. The control unit 1 causes the retransmission button 91 to be displayed for the history 8 having a communication error among the history 8 included in the list 7e. When the retransmission button 91 is operated, the control unit 1 communicates the image data for transmission included in the retransmission target history 8 that is the history 8 where the retransmission button 91 is operated toward the destination included in the retransmission target history 8. Transmit to unit 6.

  As a result, it is possible to retransmit a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred simply by operating the retransmission button 91 displayed in the list 7e. Therefore, it is possible to greatly reduce the labor, time, and work required to retransmit a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred. The user does not have to redo the setting from 1. Some users postpone re-sending work because it takes time. Some users forget to resend the work again. However, since the transmission job can be easily retransmitted, it is possible to eliminate transmission of important information. In the list 7e, a retransmission button 91 is attached only to the transmission job history 8 in which a communication error has occurred. Therefore, a transmission job in which a communication error has occurred can be easily distinguished from a transmission job in which no communication error has occurred.

  The operation unit also accepts broadcast transmission settings for transmitting the same image data to a plurality of destinations. The control unit 1 includes each destination, a transmission result for each destination, and image data for transmission in the history 8 of the transmission job for broadcast transmission. When the retransmission target history 8 is the broadcast transmission transmission job history 8, the control unit 1 sends the transmission destination to the destination in which the communication error occurred among the destinations included in the retransmission target history 8. The image data is transmitted to the communication unit 6, and the image data for transmission is not transmitted to the communication unit 6 toward a destination whose transmission result is not a communication error. Of the plurality of destinations in the broadcast transmission, the transmission image data can be retransmitted only to the destinations that have not been correctly transmitted. It is possible to prevent image data having the same contents from being repeatedly transmitted to the same destination.

  In addition, the control unit 1 includes the contents of the generated communication error in the history 8. When displaying the list 7e, the control unit 1 displays a retransmission button 91 on the history 8 of the transmission job in which a retransmission target error that is a predetermined communication error has occurred. The control unit 1 does not display the retransmission button 91 for the transmission job history 8 in which a communication error other than the retransmission target error has occurred. Thereby, it is possible to determine whether or not to retransmit according to the content of the communication error that has occurred. That is, the conditions for retransmission can be defined in detail.

  When the receiving apparatus is communicating with another apparatus, a busy (busy, communicating) communication error may occur. In addition, when the power supply of the receiving device is turned off, a communication error with an unknown destination may occur. The cause of these communication errors may have been eliminated over time. Therefore, the retransmission target error includes a Busy communication error and a communication error with no destination. As a result, it is possible to retransmit the transmission image data only for communication errors that are likely to be resolved over time. In other words, the image data for transmission can be retransmitted only to a destination to which information can be correctly conveyed by retransmission. Unnecessary retransmission (transmission job) can be eliminated.

  A communication error may occur due to a destination setting error. Therefore, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a destination setting screen 72 for setting the destination of the transmission image data before transmitting the transmission image data. The operation unit accepts the destination setting on the destination setting screen 72. The control unit 1 causes the communication unit 6 to transmit the image data for transmission toward the new destination set on the destination setting screen 72 instead of the destination in which the communication error has occurred. Thereby, the destination at the time of retransmission can be changed to a correct destination. The image data for transmission can be retransmitted to the correct destination. It is possible to prevent a communication error from recurring due to a destination setting error during retransmission.

  Further, the control unit 1 causes the display panel 31 to display a retransmission unnecessary button 92 for the history 8 in which a communication error has occurred among the history 8 included in the list 7e. The control unit 1 causes the storage unit 2 to delete the transmission image data included in the history 8 corresponding to the operated retransmission unnecessary button 92. When displaying the list 7e, the control unit 1 does not display the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92 for the history 8 in which the retransmission unnecessary button 92 is operated. As a result, it is possible to delete transmission image data that does not require retransmission from each history 8 of the transmission job. Therefore, the free capacity of the storage unit 2 can be increased. Further, it is possible to prevent the retransmission button 91 and the retransmission unnecessary button 92 from being displayed for the history 8 from which the transmission image data has been deleted.

  In broadcast transmission, the larger the number of communication errors, the more image data for transmission can be received and the more destinations. Such a history 8 should be particularly noted and confirmed. Therefore, when a plurality of destinations are included in the retransmission target history 8, the control unit 1 increases the display size of the retransmission button 91 as the number of destinations with communication errors increases. As a result, the history 8 to be particularly confirmed in the list 7e can be shown to the user. It is possible to call attention to the history 8 in which many communication errors have occurred.

  Transmission image data is stored. There is a limit to the capacity of the storage unit 2. Generally, the history 8 is not referred to as it gets older. It is not necessary to keep the transmission image data of the history 8 that is not referred to forever. Therefore, the control unit 1 includes the transmission date and time of the transmission job in the history 8 and causes the storage unit 2 to delete the transmission image data included in the history 8 after a predetermined holding period has elapsed from the transmission date and time. Thereby, it is possible to automatically delete image data for transmission after a certain amount of time has elapsed from the time of transmission. It is possible to avoid compression of the storage area due to image data for transmission. The free capacity of the storage unit 2 can be increased.

  The multifunction device 100 (image forming apparatus) includes the transmission device 10 described above. A transmission job in which a communication error has occurred can be easily retransmitted. Therefore, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can easily retransmit a transmission job.

  Although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention can be used in a transmission apparatus and an image forming apparatus that transmit image data.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 100 Multifunction machine (image forming apparatus) 10 Transmission apparatus 1 Control part 2 Storage part 21 Storage (storage part 2) 22 ROM (Storage part 2)
23 RAM (storage unit 2) 31 Display panel 32 Touch panel (operation unit) 33 Hard key (operation unit)
6 Communication section 72 Destination setting screen 7e List 8 History 91 Retransmission button 92 Retransmission unnecessary button

Claims (9)

A screen, a display panel for displaying images,
An operation unit for accepting a transmission job destination setting and a transmission job execution instruction;
A communication unit that transmits data;
A storage unit for storing data;
When the execution of the transmission job is instructed, the communication unit transmits image data to the destination set in the operation unit, and the history of the executed transmission job is stored in the storage unit in a nonvolatile manner. The history includes a control unit that includes a destination, transmission image data that is transmitted or about to be transmitted, and a transmission result.
When an operation for displaying the history list of each transmission job executed is performed on the operation unit,
The controller is
Displaying the list on the display panel;
Of the histories included in the list, to display a retransmission button for the history that had a communication error,
When the resend button is operated,
The transmission apparatus, characterized in that the transmission image data included in a retransmission target history that is the history of the retransmission button being operated is transmitted to the communication unit toward the destination included in the retransmission target history. The operation unit accepts broadcast transmission settings for transmitting the same image data to a plurality of destinations,
The control unit includes each destination, a transmission result for each destination, and the image data for transmission in the history of the transmission job for broadcast transmission,
When the resending target history is the history of a broadcast transmission job,
Out of the destinations included in the retransmission target history of broadcast transmission, the transmission image data is transmitted to the communication unit toward a destination in which a communication error has occurred, and the transmission result is directed to a destination that is not a communication error. The transmission apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the transmission image data is not transmitted to the communication unit. The controller is
The contents of the communication error that occurred are included in the history,
When displaying the list, the retransmission button is displayed for the history of the transmission job in which a retransmission target error that is a predetermined communication error has occurred,
The transmission apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the retransmission button is not displayed for the history of the transmission job in which a communication error other than the retransmission target error has occurred.   The transmission apparatus according to claim 3, wherein the retransmission target error includes a Busy communication error and a communication error with no destination. The control unit displays a destination setting screen for setting a destination of the transmission image data on the display panel before transmitting the transmission image data.
The operation unit accepts a destination setting on the destination setting screen,
The control unit causes the communication unit to transmit the image data for transmission to a new destination set on the destination setting screen, instead of the destination having a communication error. 5. The transmission device according to any one of 4. The control unit causes the display panel to display a retransmission unnecessary button for the history having a communication error among the history included in the list,
Causing the storage unit to delete the transmission image data included in the history corresponding to the operated retransmission unnecessary button;
5. The display device according to claim 1, wherein when the list is displayed, the retransmission button and the retransmission unnecessary button are not displayed for the history in which the retransmission unnecessary button is operated. 6. Transmitter device. When the retransmission target history includes a plurality of the destinations,
The transmission apparatus according to claim 5, wherein the control unit increases the display size of the retransmission button as the number of destinations having communication errors increases. The controller is
The transmission date and time of the transmission job is included in the history,
7. The transmission device according to claim 1, wherein the transmission image data included in the history in which a predetermined holding period has elapsed from the transmission date and time is deleted in the storage unit. 8. .   An image forming apparatus comprising the transmission device according to claim 1.

Images