JP2020163701A - Image formation system and image formation device - Google Patents

Abstract

To shorten the waiting time of a user to alleviation and resolution of the malfunction while making the content of information (command) for improving the state impossible to understand at a glance.SOLUTION: An image formation system includes a communication device, a request processing device and an image formation device. The communication device receives a request. The request processing device generates a command for deciding the operation of the image formation device on the basis of the recognized request. The request processing device converts the command into a code image. The request processing device transmits a file including the code image to the communication device. The image formation device decodes the code image included in the file and executes the operation according to the command obtained with the decoding.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 10

Description

The present invention relates to an image forming system including an image forming apparatus. The present invention also relates to an image forming apparatus used in an image forming system.

Information may be encoded based on a predetermined algorithm. As such a code, for example, there is a bar code. Code is decoded by reading or parsing the code. By decrypting, the information contained in the code can be recognized. At first glance, it is unclear what kind of information is shown when it is converted into code. An example of a technique (display device) using such a code is described in Patent Document 1.

Specifically, Patent Document 1 describes an information storage memory in which system information is stored, an encoder that converts the contents of the information storage memory into a barcode, and a barcode in which the contents of the information storage memory are converted. The display device to be displayed is described. With this configuration, the contents of the information storage memory are displayed by barcode so that online failure diagnosis and maintenance support can be easily received (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0007], etc.).

JP-A-2007-271806

There are image forming devices such as multifunction devices and copiers. Expertise is required for maintenance of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, a maintenance contract may be concluded between the user of the image forming apparatus and the maintenance company. The maintenance contract is a contract for inspection and repair of the image forming apparatus. The dispatch of a service person (maintenance person) may be included in the contract contents. In this case, when a problem occurs in the image forming apparatus, the user contacts the call center. As a result, a serviceman is dispatched.

There are users who want to quickly alleviate or eliminate problems and problems. It may take some time for the service person to arrive after contacting us. There is a problem that the user has to wait until the problem is alleviated or resolved.

In the technique described in Patent Document 1, the contents of the information storage memory are converted into barcodes. The information storage memory includes information such as an error log (see Patent Document 1: [0023] and the like). Further, Patent Document 1 describes that the image data of the barcode is transmitted to the support center and that the support center diagnoses the failure based on the barcode (Patent Document 1: [0034], [0035]]. etc). However, it does not describe how to utilize the diagnosis results. Further, the technique described in Patent Document 1 does not shorten the waiting time of the user until the defect is alleviated or resolved. The above problem cannot be solved.

In view of the above-mentioned problems of the prior art, the present invention makes it difficult to understand the contents of information (commands) for improving the state of the image forming apparatus at first glance, and waits for the user to alleviate or eliminate the problems. To shorten.

The image forming system according to the present invention includes a communication device, a request processing device, and an image forming device. The communication device accepts a request for the image forming device. The request processing device generates a command for determining the operation of the image forming device based on the request items recognized by communicating with the communication device. The request processing device converts the generated command into a code image by coding. The request processing device transmits a file including the code image to the communication device. The image forming apparatus decodes the code image contained in the file received by the communication apparatus. The image forming apparatus operates in response to the command obtained by the decoding.

Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention is used in the above-mentioned image forming system, decodes the code image included in the file received by the communication device, and operates according to the command obtained by the decoding. I do.

According to the present invention, the user can select defects and desired points. It is possible to shorten the waiting time for the user to relax, improve, or resolve the selected request. It is possible to make it difficult to understand at a glance the contents of information (commands) for improving the state of the image forming apparatus.

It is a figure which shows an example of the image formation system which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the communication apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the request processing apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the image forming apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the image forming part which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the flow of acceptance of the request matter in the image formation system which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the questionnaire screen which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the processing of the request processing apparatus which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the file which concerns on embodiment. It is a figure which shows an example of the reading of the code image by the communication apparatus and image forming apparatus which concerns on embodiment.

Hereinafter, the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 10. The following elements such as the configuration and the arrangement described in the present embodiment do not limit the scope of the invention and are merely explanatory examples.

(Image formation system 100)
An example of the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming system 100 according to an embodiment.

As shown in FIG. 1, the image forming system 100 includes a communication device 1, a request processing device 2, and an image forming device 3. For example, the request processing device 2, the image forming device 3, and the communication device 1 are connected by a network. The request processing device 2, the image forming device 3, and the communication device 1 can communicate with each other. A plurality of request processing devices 2, an image forming device 3, and a communication device 1 may be provided. For convenience, FIG. 1 illustrates each device one by one.

The communication device 1 performs processing. The communication device 1 is, for example, a PC. A smartphone or tablet computer may be used instead of the PC. The communication device 1 displays a screen. Further, the communication device 1 accepts an operation. The user accepts the selection of a defect (request for improvement) of the image forming apparatus 3 by using the communication apparatus 1. The request processing device 2 is, for example, a server. The request processing device 2 is, for example, a server installed by a maintenance company (a company that concludes a maintenance contract with a user) of the image forming device 3. The image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a multifunction device.

(Communication device 1)
Next, an example of the communication device 1 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the communication device 1 according to the embodiment.

The communication device 1 includes a processing unit 10, an information storage unit 11, a display 12, an input device 13, and an information communication unit 14.

The processing unit 10 is an electronic circuit board including a plurality of circuits and elements. The processing unit 10 includes a control circuit 25 (CPU) and an image processing circuit 26. The information storage unit 11 non-volatilely stores the OS, data, programs, and various software. The information storage unit 11 includes a flash ROM, an HDD, and a RAM. The processing unit 10 controls the operation of the communication device 1 based on the OS, data, programs, and various software. The processing unit 10 controls each unit of the communication device 1 according to the stored contents of the information storage unit 11.

The processing unit 10 displays the screen and information on the display 12. The display 12 includes, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The input device 13 accepts the user's operation. The input device 13 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse. The input device 13 may be a touch panel 34b. Based on the output of the input device 13, the processing unit 10 recognizes the operation content. The information communication unit 14 includes a communication circuit and communication software. The information communication unit 14 communicates with the request processing device 2 and the image forming device 3 according to the instruction of the processing unit 10.

The request input software 17 is installed in the information storage unit 11 of the communication device 1. In addition, software such as word processing software, spreadsheet software, image data editing software, and OCR software may be installed in the information storage unit 11.

(Request processing device 2)
Next, an example of the request processing device 2 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the request processing device 2 according to the embodiment.

The request processing device 2 includes a server processing unit 20, a server storage unit 21, a server display 22, a server input device 23, and a server communication unit 24. The server processing unit 20 is a board (server board) including a control circuit 25 and an image processing circuit 26. The server processing unit 20 performs calculations and processing. The server processing unit 20 controls the operation of the request processing device 2.

The server storage unit 21 includes a RAM, a ROM, and a storage (HDD). The server storage unit 21 can store data non-volatilely. The server storage unit 21 stores command generation data 27. The command generation data 27 is preset. The command generation data 27 is data that defines commands according to the type of request. The command generation data 27 may include setting values related to the operation of the image forming apparatus 3. Further, the command generation data 27 may include an operation instruction to the image forming apparatus 3 for solving the problem. In the command generation data 27, setting values and instructions for solving the problems are defined in response to the requested items.

The server display 22 includes, for example, a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel. The server processing unit 20 displays the screen and information on the server display 22. The server input device 23 is, for example, a keyboard or a mouse. The server input device 23 accepts the user's operation. Based on the output of the server input device 23, the server processing unit 20 recognizes the operation content. The command generation data 27 can be defined using the server input device 23.

The server communication unit 24 communicates with the image forming device 3 and the communication device 1 via the network. The server processing unit 20 stores the data received by the server communication unit 24 from the image forming device 3 and the communication device 1 in the server storage unit 21. The server processing unit 20 causes the server communication unit 24 to transmit data and information toward the information communication unit 14 (communication device 1) and the communication unit 36 (image forming device 3).

(Image forming apparatus 3)
An example of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the image forming apparatus 3 according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the image forming unit 35c according to the embodiment.

The image forming apparatus 3 includes a control unit 30, a storage unit 31, a document transport unit 32, an image reading unit 33, an operation panel 34, a printing unit 35, and a communication unit 36. The control unit 30 controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 3. The control unit 30 is a substrate including a control circuit 37 and an image processing circuit 38. The control unit 30 controls and calculates the image forming apparatus 3. The control unit 30 controls each unit of the image forming apparatus 3 and performs various arithmetic processes based on the programs and data stored in the storage unit 31. The storage unit 31 includes a ROM, a RAM, and a storage (HDD). The storage unit 31 stores the setting data for control of the image forming apparatus 3, the image data, the control program, and the file 7.

The document transfer unit 32 includes a document transfer roller and a document transfer motor. The document transport unit 32 transports the set documents one by one toward the reading position of the document. A plurality of original documents can be set in the document transport unit 32. In the case of a job involving reading a document (for example, a copy job), the control unit 30 (control circuit 37) causes the image reading unit 33 to read the document. The image reading unit 33 reads a document transported by the document transport unit 32 or a document set on the contact glass. The image reading unit 33 generates image data of the scanned document. The image reading unit 33 includes a light source (lamp), a lens, an image sensor (line sensor), and an A / D conversion circuit for reading a document and generating image data.

The operation panel 34 includes a display panel 34a, a touch panel 34b, and a hard key 34c. The display panel 34a displays a screen and an image. The control unit 30 (control circuit 37) controls the display on the display panel 34a. The control unit 30 displays the operation image on the display panel 34a. The operation image is an image used for setting a job (for example, a button or a key). The touch panel 34b accepts the user's operation. The touch panel 34b is provided on the upper surface of the display panel 34a. The touch panel 34b recognizes the touch position. Based on the output of the touch panel 34b, the control unit 30 recognizes the operated operation image. Based on the operated operation image, the control unit 30 recognizes the operation content of the user. The hard key 34c also accepts user operations.

The printing unit 35 includes a paper feeding unit 35a, a paper conveying unit 35b, an image forming unit 35c, and a fixing unit 35d. The control unit 30 (control circuit 37) controls the operation of these parts. That is, the control unit 30 controls paper feeding, paper transport, toner image formation, transfer, and fixing. At the time of a print job, the control unit 30 supplies the paper to the paper feed unit 35a one by one. The control unit 30 conveys the supplied paper to the paper conveying unit 35b. The control unit 30 causes the image forming unit 35c to form a toner image based on the image data for printing. The control unit 30 causes the image forming unit 35c to transfer the toner image to the conveyed paper. The control unit 30 fixes the toner image transferred to the paper to the fixing unit 35d. The control unit 30 causes the paper transport unit 35b to eject the fixed paper to the outside of the machine.

As shown in FIG. 5, the image forming unit 35c includes a photoconductor drum 41, a charging device 42, an exposure device 43, a developing device 44, a transfer roller 45 (transfer device), and a cleaning device 46. The photoconductor drum 41 has, for example, an amorphous silicon photoconductor (photosensitive layer). The photoconductor drum 41 carries a toner image.

The paper enters the nip of the photoconductor drum 41 and the transfer roller 45. At the time of printing, the control unit 30 rotates the photoconductor drum 41 and the transfer roller 45. A motor (main motor) for rotating the photoconductor drum 41 and the transfer roller 45 is provided. At the time of printing, the control unit 30 rotates the main motor.

Further, at the time of printing, the control unit 30 causes the charging device 42 to charge the photoconductor drum 41. The charging device 42 is, for example, a wire. The charging device 42 may be a charging roller in contact with the photoconductor drum 41. Further, the control unit 30 causes the exposure apparatus 43 to scan and expose the photoconductor drum 41. As a result, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data is formed on the photoconductor drum 41. The control unit 30 causes the developing apparatus 44 to develop the electrostatic latent image with the toner (formation of the toner image). The control unit 30 causes the transfer roller 45 to transfer the toner image to the transport paper. The control unit 30 transfers the toner image to the image forming unit 35c on the paper while conveying the paper to the image forming unit 35c. The cleaning device 46 collects the toner remaining on the surface of the photoconductor drum 41.

Further, a charging voltage (charging bias) is applied to the charging device 42. By applying this voltage, the surface of the photoconductor drum 41 is charged. A charging voltage generation unit 47 (charging substrate) for generating a charging voltage is provided. The charging voltage generation unit 47 generates, for example, a voltage obtained by superimposing an AC voltage and a DC voltage. The charging voltage generation unit 47 includes a circuit for generating an AC voltage and a circuit for generating a DC voltage. The charging voltage generation unit 47 can change the frequency and amplitude of the output AC voltage. Further, the charging voltage generation unit 47 can adjust the magnitude of the output DC voltage. At the time of printing, the control unit 30 causes the charging voltage generation unit 47 to generate a charging bias.

The developing device 44 includes a developing roller 48 and a stirring roller 49. A motor (development motor) for stirring the developing roller 48 and the stirring roller 49 is provided. The developing device 44 contains toner. A replenishment device (not shown) replenishes the developing device 44 with toner that has decreased with use. The stirring roller 49 stirs the toner inside the developing device 44. The friction of this stirring charges the toner.

Further, a developing voltage (development bias) is applied to the developing roller 48. By applying this voltage, the toner flies from the toner layer formed on the peripheral surface of the developing roller 48. A developing voltage generating unit 410 (developing high-voltage substrate) for applying a voltage to the developing roller 48 is provided. The developing voltage generation unit 410 generates a voltage obtained by superimposing an AC voltage and a DC voltage. The developing voltage generation unit 410 includes a circuit for generating an AC voltage and a circuit for generating a DC voltage. The developing voltage generator 410 can change the frequency and amplitude of the output AC voltage. Further, the developing voltage generation unit 410 can adjust the magnitude of the output DC voltage. At the time of printing, the control unit 30 causes the development voltage generation unit 410 to generate a development bias. Then, the control unit 30 applies a development bias to the development roller 48.

Further, a transfer voltage (transfer bias) is applied to the transfer roller 45. By applying this voltage, the toner image of the photoconductor drum 41 moves toward the paper (is attracted to the paper side). A transfer voltage generation unit 411 (transfer high-voltage substrate) for applying a voltage to the transfer roller 45 is provided. The transfer voltage generator also generates a voltage obtained by superimposing an AC voltage and a DC voltage. The transfer voltage generator includes a circuit that generates an AC voltage and a circuit that generates a DC voltage. The transfer voltage generator can change the frequency and amplitude of the output AC voltage. In addition, the transfer voltage generator can adjust the magnitude of the output AC voltage. At the time of printing, the control unit 30 causes the transfer voltage generation unit 411 to generate a transfer bias. Then, the control unit 30 applies a transfer bias to the transfer roller 45.

The communication unit 36 is communicably connected to the network. The communication unit 36 is a board provided with communication hardware (various sockets, communication circuits) and communication software. The communication unit 36 can communicate with the request processing device 2 and the communication device 1 via the network.

(Acceptance of requests)
Next, an example of accepting the request items in the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a flow of accepting requests in the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of the questionnaire screen 5 according to the embodiment.

The communication device 1 accepts requests for correspondence and adjustment with respect to the image forming device 3. When there is a problem with the image forming apparatus 3, the user makes an input with the communication apparatus 1. The communication device 1 transmits the received request to the request processing device 2 (server). The request processing device 2 recognizes the request.

An example of the flow of accepting the requested items in the communication device 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7. The start of FIG. 6 is when the communication device 1 performs a predetermined start operation of the request input software 17. The activation operation can be performed using the input device 13. The predetermined activation operation is, for example, an icon operation of the request input software 17. When a predetermined start operation is performed, the processing unit 10 reads the request input software 17 from the storage unit 31 (step # 11).

Based on the request input software 17, the processing unit 10 displays the questionnaire screen 5 on the display 12 (step # 12). The questionnaire screen 5 is a screen for accepting requests. There are a plurality of types of questionnaire screens 5. FIG. 7 shows an example of the displayed questionnaire screen 5. The request input software 17 includes data for displaying each questionnaire screen 5.

As shown in FIG. 7, each questionnaire screen 5 includes a check box for making a selection. The input device 13 accepts the operation of checking the check box as an operation of answering the questionnaire (step # 13). As shown in FIG. 7, each questionnaire screen 5 has a hierarchical structure. Each questionnaire screen 5 is positioned at any level.

With the activation of the request input software 17, the processing unit 10 causes the display 12 to display the questionnaire screen 5 at the highest level (questionnaire screen 5 at the top of FIG. 7). Each time the check box is checked, the control unit 30 displays the questionnaire screen 5 at the next lower level on the display 12.

Finally, the required items are specified by checking the check boxes on the questionnaire screen 5 at the bottom layer. In addition, a request may be specified before reaching the bottom layer questionnaire screen 5. Based on the selection made on the questionnaire screen 5 (checking the check box), the processing unit 10 recognizes the requested item (step # 14). The user answers the question shown on the questionnaire screen 5. The processing unit 10 recognizes the request in the form of a questionnaire.

With reference to FIG. 7, the input of the requested items when the problem of low density of the printed matter occurs will be described. First, on the top-level questionnaire screen 5, the user checks the check box for defects. In response to this operation, the processing unit 10 causes the display 12 to display the questionnaire screen 5 on the left side of the second row from the top. Then, the user checks the check box related to the image.

As a result, the processing unit 10 causes the display 12 to display the leftmost questionnaire screen 5 in the third row from the top. The user checks the check box for eliminating low concentration. In response to this operation, the processing unit 10 causes the display 12 to display the questionnaire screen 5 in the fourth row (bottom row) from the top. The user selects how dark it should be with the check box.

On the leftmost questionnaire screen 5 in the third row from the top, the items for improvement are determined when the check boxes for vertical streaks, horizontal streaks, and misalignment are checked. With respect to these check boxes, the processing unit 10 recognizes that it is a request to resolve the checked items. Further, on the questionnaire screen 5 in the center of the third row from the top, the request for improvement is determined when the place where the jam occurs is selected. Regarding the check box of the jam occurrence position, the processing unit 10 recognizes that it is a request to eliminate the jam at the checked place.

Further, as shown in the right column of FIG. 7, the user can select an item (request item) for which adjustment is desired. In this case as well, the requirements are decided in the form of a questionnaire.

When the request is recognized, the processing unit 10 causes the request processing device 2 (server communication unit 24) to transmit the recognized request to the information communication unit 14 (step # 15). The processing unit 10 notifies the request processing device 2 of the selection made on the questionnaire screen 5. At this time, the processing unit 10 may cause the information communication unit 14 to transmit information about the image forming apparatus 3 together with the requested items. The information about the image forming apparatus 3 is, for example, a model name, an installation location, and an installer name of the image forming apparatus 3. The information storage unit 11 non-volatilely stores information about the image forming apparatus 3. For example, the request input software 17 can be used to register information about the image forming apparatus 3.

Further, the processing unit 10 may cause the information communication unit 14 to transmit the recognized request items and information about the image forming apparatus 3 toward a predetermined destination (address) (step # 16). The predetermined destination is, for example, the address of the computer of the maintenance company (maintenance contract conclusion partner) of the image forming apparatus 3. This makes it possible to automatically send a contact to the maintenance company to arrange the dispatch of the serviceman.

(Generation and transmission of code image 6)
Next, an example of the processing of the request processing device 2 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of processing of the request processing device 2 according to the embodiment. FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of the file 7 according to the embodiment.

The start of FIG. 8 is when the request processing device 2 receives the request from the communication device 1. First, the server processing unit 20 recognizes the request item based on the data received by the server communication unit 24 (step # 21). Based on the notification from the communication device 1, the request processing device 2 recognizes the request item. Further, the server processing unit 20 stores the address of the communication device 1 that has transmitted the request in the server storage unit 21 (step # 22).

Subsequently, the server processing unit 20 generates a command (step # 23). The command is an instruction to set the operation of the image forming apparatus 3. For example, the server storage unit 21 stores data (command generation data 27) in which corresponding commands are defined for each type of request (see FIG. 3). The server processing unit 20 reads a command corresponding to a request from the command generation data 27. The command corresponding to the request can be determined.

The server processing unit 20 may generate a command for changing the setting value of a certain item. For example, when the request is to increase the density of the image, the server processing unit 20 generates a command for changing the setting value related to toner image formation. For example, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command for changing the set value indicating the magnitude of the voltage generated by the charging voltage generation unit 47 to a value different from the normal value (default value). Further, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command to set the frequency of the AC voltage applied to the developing roller 48 to a value (set value) different from the normal value (default value). Further, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command in which the amplitude of the AC voltage applied to the developing roller 48 is different from the normal value (default value). Further, a command may be generated in which the magnitude of the DC voltage applied to the developing roller 48 is set to a value (set value) different from the normal value (default value). Further, a command may be generated in which the magnitude of the voltage applied to the transfer roller 45 is set to a value (set value) different from the normal value (default value). The server processing unit 20 generates a command for changing the setting value of a specific item so that the density of the formed toner image becomes high. In other words, for the voltage generated by each voltage generation unit, the server processing unit 20 generates a command for determining the changed voltage value.

In this case, the generated command includes, for example, an instruction statement for changing the set value, a number indicating an item for which the set value is changed, and a set value after the change. The command is generated so that the image forming apparatus 3 can understand it.

Further, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command statement instructing a specific operation for dealing with the request as a command. For example, the cleaning operation may eliminate the streaks contained in the printed matter. And one of the cleaning operations is the development refresh operation. The amount of old toner increases in the developing device 44 during use. Older toner tends to have a higher proportion of toner that is difficult to fly. As a result, the printed matter may have streaks. In the development refresh operation, the control unit 30 causes the development device 44 to discharge the toner in the development device 44. The discharged toner is collected by the cleaning device 46. Further, new toner is charged into the developing device 44.

Further, the exposure apparatus 43 incorporates a laser light emitting apparatus (semiconductor laser apparatus). Further, the exposure apparatus 43 has a built-in mirror for irradiating the photoconductor drum 41 with laser light. A light transmitting member is used in the portion of the exposure apparatus 43 that emits the laser beam toward the photoconductor drum 41 (for example, glass). If the light transmissive member becomes dirty, streaks may occur. Therefore, the exposure apparatus 43 is provided with a wiping apparatus. The wiping device wipes and cleans the light transmitting member.

For example, in the case of eliminating the streaks included in the printed matter, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command instructing the cleaning operation. For example, the server processing unit 20 may generate a command instructing a development refresh operation or a wiping operation of the wiping device.

The command may include both a command for changing the setting value of a certain item and a command for instructing a specific operation (for example, a cleaning operation). That is, the command is one or both of the set value of the image forming apparatus 3 and the start instruction of the specific operation in the image forming apparatus 3.

After generating the command, the server processing unit 20 converts the command into a code image 6 (step # 24). The contents of the command (command source code) cannot be understood at first glance. Here, the code image 6 is an image in which the command is coded by a predetermined algorithm. The code image 6 is, for example, a two-dimensional code. For example, the server processing unit 20 converts a command into a QR code (registered trademark). In the following description, an example using a QR code will be described. The code image 6 may be an image of a two-dimensional code other than the QR code. Further, the code image 6 may be a one-dimensional code image (for example, a bar code).

Then, the server processing unit 20 generates the file 7 including the code image 6 (step # 25). For example, the server processing unit 20 generates the image data file 7. As shown in FIG. 9, the code image 6 obtained by converting the command is pasted into the image data (file 7). For example, the server processing unit 20 first generates a file 7 on a white background. As shown in FIG. 9, the file 7 on a white background may include a message such as "Please read the following QR code." The server processing unit 20 generates an image file having a predetermined size and resolution. The size is, for example, A4 size or letter size. Next, the server processing unit 20 pastes the code image 6 into the file 7 on a white background. The server processing unit 20 pastes the code image 6 so that the message does not disappear. Then, the server processing unit 20 causes the communication device 1 (information communication unit 14) to transmit the file 7 (image file) including the code image 6 to the server communication unit 24 (step # 26 → end).

(Reading code image 6)
Next, an example of reading the code image 6 by the communication device 1 and the image forming device 3 according to the embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of reading the code image 6 by the communication device 1 and the image forming device 3 according to the embodiment.

The image forming apparatus 3 decodes the code image 6 included in the file 7 received by the communication apparatus 1. As a result, the image forming apparatus 3 (control unit 30) recognizes the command obtained by decoding. Then, the control unit 30 performs an operation according to the command. Hereinafter, an example of the flow of reading the code image 6 will be described with reference to FIG. The start of FIG. 10 is when the communication device 1 receives the file 7.

First, the processing unit 10 causes the image forming apparatus 3 (communication unit 36) to transmit the received file 7 to the information communication unit 14 (step # 31). In other words, the communication device 1 (processing unit 10) transfers the file 7 to the image forming device 3. Next, the image forming apparatus 3 (control unit 30) performs a process for recognizing the code image 6 (step # 32). Next, the control unit 30 decodes the code image 6 (step # 33). Then, the control unit 30 recognizes the command based on the data obtained by the decoding (step # 34).

Specifically, the control unit 30 may have the print unit 35 print a printed matter including the code image 6 based on the received file 7. In this case, the user sets the printed matter in the image reading unit 33 or the document conveying unit 32. Then, the user operates the operation panel 34 and causes the image reading unit 33 to read the printed matter. The image reading unit 33 generates scanned image data based on the reading. In this case, the control unit 30 (image processing circuit 26) detects the code image 6 (QR code) included in the scanned image data. In other words, the control unit 30 recognizes the position of the code image 6 in the scanned image data. Then, the control unit 30 (image processing circuit 26) decodes the code image 6 included in the scanned image data. The control unit 30 decodes the command included in the code image 6. The control unit 301 (image processing circuit 2612) decodes the QR code. In this way, the control unit 30 may recognize the command.

Further, the control unit 30 may analyze the received file 7 (image data including the code image 6) itself. In this case, the control unit 30 (image processing circuit 26) detects the code image 6 (QR code) from the file 7 (image data). In other words, the control unit 30 recognizes the position of the code image 6 included in the file 7. The control unit 30 (image processing circuit 26) decodes the code image 6 included in the file 7. Then, the control unit 30 decodes the command included in the code image 6. In this way, the control unit 30 may recognize the command.

Then, the control unit 30 performs an operation according to the command obtained by decoding (step # 35 → end). The control unit 30 performs processing so that the defect of the image forming apparatus 3 is eliminated and alleviated.
When the command is to change the set value, the control unit 30 changes the set value of the item specified by the command. As a result, for example, the waveform of the voltage applied to the developing roller 48 and the transfer roller 45 changes. Further, in the case of a command instructing a specific operation, the control unit 30 executes the operation specified by the command. As a result, for example, a development refresh operation and a wiping operation are performed.

In this way, the image forming system 100 according to the embodiment includes the communication device 1, the request processing device 2, and the image forming device 3. The communication device 1 receives a request for the image forming device 3 to be dealt with. The request processing device 2 generates a command for determining the operation of the image forming device 3 based on the requested items recognized by communicating with the communication device 1. The request processing device 2 converts the command generated by coding into a code image 6. The request processing device 2 transmits the file 7 including the code image 6 to the communication device 1. The image forming apparatus 3 decodes the code image 6 included in the file 7 received by the communication apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 3 operates according to the command obtained by decoding.

According to this configuration, information (command) capable of improving the state of the image forming apparatus 3 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 3 based on the request of the user. Since the image forming apparatus 3 operates according to the command obtained by decoding, the defect of the image forming apparatus 3 may be alleviated or eliminated. In some cases, the problem can be mitigated or resolved before the serviceman arrives. All you have to do is send the request from the communication device 1. The waiting time for alleviating and resolving defects is shortened. Further, the command and the set value for setting the operation may be related to the secret in the development and operation of the image forming apparatus 3. Therefore, it is preferable that commands and setting values cannot be understood at first glance. The command is coded. The command can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 3 so that the contents cannot be understood at first glance.

Further, the request processing device 2 transmits the received file 7 to the image forming device 3. The image forming apparatus 3 may print a printed matter including the code image 6 based on the received file 7. In this case, the image forming apparatus 3 reads the printed matter and generates the scanned image data. Then, the image forming apparatus 3 decodes the code image 6 included in the scanned image data and recognizes the command. Information (commands) can be input to the image forming apparatus 3 via printing and scanning by the image forming apparatus 3.

Further, the request processing device 2 transmits the received file 7 to the image forming device 3. File 7 is image data. The image forming apparatus 3 may decode the received image data as the file 7 and recognize the command. Information (command) can be input to the image forming apparatus 3 only by transmitting (transferring) the file 7 from the request processing apparatus 2.

The communication device 1 displays a questionnaire screen 5, which is a screen for accepting requests in the form of a questionnaire. The communication device 1 notifies the request processing device 2 of the requests based on the selection made on the questionnaire screen 5. The request processing device 2 recognizes the request item based on the notification from the communication device 1. By asking and answering questions in the form of a questionnaire, the user can determine the problems and defects of the image forming apparatus 3. The request processing device 2 can accurately recognize defects and requests related to the image forming device 3.

The command is one or both of the set value of the image forming apparatus 3 and the specific operation of the image forming apparatus 3. By the command, the setting value for controlling the operation of the image forming apparatus 3 can be set. In addition, the image forming apparatus 3 can be made to perform a specific operation for solving the problem by a command.

The code image 6 is a QR code. Using the QR code, information (command) capable of improving the state of the image forming apparatus 3 can be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 3.

The present invention can also be regarded as the invention of the image forming apparatus 3. Specifically, the image forming apparatus 3 decodes the code image 6 included in the file 7 received by the communication apparatus 1. The image forming apparatus 3 operates according to the command obtained by decoding. The image forming apparatus 3 operates according to the command obtained by decoding. Based on the command, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus 3 that alleviates or eliminates a defect. It is possible to provide an image forming apparatus 3 having a short waiting time for alleviating or eliminating defects.

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

The present invention can be used in an image forming system including an image forming apparatus.

100 Image formation system 1 Communication device 2 Request processing device 3 Image formation device 5 Questionnaire screen 6 Code image

Claims (7)

An image forming system including a communication device, a request processing device, and an image forming device.
The communication device receives a request for the image forming device and receives a request.
The request processing device is
Based on the request recognized by communicating with the communication device, a command for determining the operation of the image forming device is generated.
By coding, the generated command is converted into a code image, and
A file containing the code image is transmitted to the communication device,
The image forming apparatus
The code image contained in the file received by the communication device is decoded, and the code image is decoded.
An image forming system characterized by performing an operation according to the command obtained by the decoding. The request processing device transmits the received file to the image forming device, and the request processing device transmits the received file to the image forming device.
The image forming apparatus
Based on the received file, a printed matter containing the code image is printed, and the printed matter is printed.
The printed matter is read to generate scanned image data,
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the code image included in the scanned image data is decoded to recognize the command. The request processing device transmits the received file to the image forming device, and the request processing device transmits the received file to the image forming device.
The file is image data
The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus decodes the received image data as the file and recognizes the command. The communication device is
Display the questionnaire screen, which is the screen for accepting the above requests in the form of a questionnaire,
Notify the request processing device of the request based on the selection made on the questionnaire screen, and notify the request processing device.
The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the request processing device recognizes the request based on the notification from the communication device. The image according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the command is one or both of a set value of the image forming apparatus and a specific operation of the image forming apparatus. Forming system. The image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the code image is a QR code. It is used in the image forming system according to any one of claims 1 to 6.
An image forming apparatus characterized in that the code image included in the file received by the communication device is decoded and an operation is performed according to the command obtained by the decoding.

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