JP3019369B2 - Image forming device management device - Google Patents

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION [Industrial applications]

The present invention relates to a copier management device that transmits and receives copier management data to and from a centralized management device.

2. Description of the Related Art (1) A method has been proposed in which management data of a plurality of copiers is transmitted to a single central processing unit, and the central processing unit processes the data collectively. 54032). (2) A system for centrally managing each copying machine by transmitting management data of a plurality of copying machines to a single central control device via a terminal device of each copying machine and processing the data is proposed. (JP-A-54-44522).

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

A copier management device having a copier data collection function;
In a system that performs data communication for copier management with a centralized management device of a management center, if data that affects the operating state of the copier is out of the permissible range of the data, the central management A warning is sent to the device, prompting the management center to take appropriate action early. Here, the data that affects the operation state of the copying machine includes, for example, various element data that affect the image forming process (paper transport time, surface potential of the photosensitive drum, toner concentration in the developer, toner density of the photosensitive drum). Exposure amount, developing bias voltage, toner adhesion amount on photoconductor drum, grid voltage of charger, etc.) or various counters for maintenance (JAM for each location indicating JAM count for each location)
The count value of an AM counter, a trouble counter for each part indicating the number of troubles for each part, and a PM counter for each part indicating the number of times of use for each part). By the way, the permissible ranges (= thresholds giving permissible ranges) of the various data are set on the assumption of a standard use state of the copying machine. In other words, even if the management center is prompted to take action at the time when it is out of the allowable range, if the standard use state of the copying machine is continued, the period until the management center takes action, It is set as a value that does not cause a serious problem. Therefore, if the usage of the copier is not standard,
For example, when a very large number of copies are made, the above-mentioned tolerance cannot be met, and there is a possibility that the copier may be seriously damaged before the treatment at the management center. The present invention has been made in view of such circumstances, and has as its object to change the above-described allowable range according to the use state of a copying machine.

[Means for solving the problems]

The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus management apparatus that collects data related to an image forming apparatus and communicates with a centralized management apparatus via a communication network based on the collected data. Collecting means for collecting the data that affects the data; determining means for determining whether or not the data collected by the collecting means is within a set allowable range; and determining whether the collected data exceeds the allowable range. Transmitting means for calling the centralized management device and transmitting the effect; calculating means for calculating the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus; and changing means for changing the setting of the allowable range based on the calculated frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. , An image forming apparatus management apparatus. Further, the present invention is the image forming apparatus management apparatus according to the above configuration, wherein the image forming apparatus is a copying machine. Further, according to the present invention, in the above configuration, the calculating means calculates the use frequency based on the number of image formations per unit time,
The image forming apparatus management apparatus is characterized in that the changing unit increases the allowable range when the frequency of use is low, and narrows the allowable range when the frequency of use is high. Further, according to the present invention, there is provided an image forming apparatus management apparatus according to the above configuration, wherein information on the number of times of paper jams of the image forming paper is collected. If the data affecting the operation state of the image forming apparatus is out of the permissible range of the data, the data is transmitted to the central management apparatus to warn the user. Further, the allowable range is changed based on the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, the warning to the central management device is issued at an appropriate time.

【Example】

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described. [1] Overall Configuration of System First, a schematic configuration of the present system will be described with reference to FIGS. As shown in FIGS. 1 and 2, the system includes a number of user-side devices (a set of user-side devices is shown in the figure);
It is composed of a center device as an administrator and a communication network connecting these devices. Here, on the user side, a copying machine 4, a DT (data terminal) 1, and a modem also having a function as a communication terminal device
52 and a telephone 53 as a communication device are provided.
The data terminal 1 is a device that receives various types of information from the copying machine 4, performs predetermined processing, and transmits the processed information to a computer on the center side. On the other hand, a modem 72 also having a function as a communication terminal device, a computer (a main body 90, a display 92, a keyboard 93, a printer 94) and a telephone 73 as a communication device are installed on the center side. Based on data received via a network (for example, a telephone line network), data for copier management is created, and necessary measures are taken. Next, each device will be described. <Copier 4> This is an apparatus that forms a copy image on paper by scanning a document image. In the copying machine 4, various types of element data that affect the image forming process (paper transport time, surface potential of the photosensitive drum, toner concentration in the developer, exposure amount of the photosensitive drum,
The developing bias voltage, the amount of toner adhering to the photosensitive drum, the grid voltage of the charging charger, etc.) are detected by various sensor groups (not shown), taken into the CPU 41, processed, and then transmitted through the serial I / F 43 and the serial I / F 13. To the CPU 11 of the data terminal 1. Note that the various element data will be referred to as element data x _i (i = 1 to the number of items of element data) in the description of control described later.
They are collectively described in an abstract manner. In the copying machine 4, a counter (a total counter indicating the number of paper discharges, a counter according to a paper size indicating the number of uses for each paper size) serving as a basis for the amount charged by the administrator, and a counter (a counter for maintenance) The JAM counter for each location, which indicates the number of JAMs for each location, the trouble counter for each location, which indicates the number of troubles for each location, and the PM counter for each component, which indicates the number of times a part row has been used, are counted. The data is transmitted to the CPU 11 of the data terminal 1 via the serial I / F 12. The PM counter is a counter that counts the number of times of use for each component, and the count value is naturally used as a guide for component replacement time. Further, the copying machine 4 instructs various key switches (a print (PR) key 46 for instructing the start of a copying operation, a numeric keypad group 47 for inputting numerical values, and clearing of input data) on the operation panel (FIG. 4). A predetermined operation or mode setting is performed in response to signals from a group of switches other than the operation panel (for example, a trouble reset switch 49 for instructing a trouble reset). And, if necessary, the corresponding signal
Data terminal 1 via I / F42 and serial I / F12
Send to CPU11. It should be noted that the transmission data includes a display unit 45.
Includes the numerical data being displayed. <Data Terminal 1> The data of the copying machine 4 is taken in and processed, and when a predetermined transmission condition (condition for setting the transmission flag to “1”: see the description of the control described later in detail) is satisfied, the modem Activate 52 to connect the communication line with the center, and manage the copier management data (element data, count data, etc.)
Is transmitted to the center side. As shown in FIG. 2, the control CP of the data terminal 1
U11 is a ROM 14 storing a control program, a non-volatile memory 16 for storing selection number data (described later) and the like, a working system RAM 15 backed up by a battery,
Similarly, it is connected to a clock IC17 backed up by a battery. The CPU 11 converts the data transmitted from the copying machine 4 into
It takes in the data from the serial I / F 12 or the serial I / F 13 and executes the processing described later. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a data structure of a paper ejection code, a JAM code, and a trouble code which are data input via the serial I / F 12. That is, the paper discharge code is represented as a falling edge of the bit b _0, JAM code is represented as bit _{b 7 = 1, b 6 =} 0. The trouble code is represented as bits b ₇ = 1 and b ₆ = 1. The CPU 11 also executes a predetermined operation, a mode setting, and the like in accordance with the input of the operation switch. Here, four DIP switches DIP-SW1 to DIP-SW4 and a push switch 21 are provided as the operation switches as shown in FIG. DIP / SW4 is a switch for setting the initial setting mode. DIP / SW1 is the center selection number (telephone number) input mode, DIP / SW2 is the data terminal 1 identification number (DTID) input mode, and DIP / SW3 is the center identification ID number. (Center ID) input mode,
These are switches for setting each. The push switch 21 is a switch for instructing an initial setting transmission (see FIG. 8: S145) and the like. The CPU 11 also has a communication interface (RS
232CI / F) 18 ・ Modem 52 side communication interface (RS2
32CI / F) 51, it is connected to a modem 52 which is a communication terminal device. That is, by transmitting an off-hook signal and a center selection number signal from the modem 52 to the communication line via these devices, the communication line with the center-side modem 72 is connected, and communication with the center computer is performed. Is configured to obtain. The content of data (management data of the copying machine) transmitted from the data terminal 1 to the center side is determined by the type of the transmission flag set to "1". For example,
When the warning transmission flag is set to “1”, as described later, information on data that is out of the selected predetermined allowable range is transmitted. <Center-side device> This is a computer device configured to be connected to a large number of data terminals via a communication network. This apparatus manages the copiers connected to each data terminal. That is, data transmitted from the data terminal 1 to the modem 72 via the communication line network is transmitted via the communication interface (RS232CI / F) 71 of the modem 72 and the communication interface (RS232CI / F) 98 of the computer. , Sequentially, C
Input to PU91. The CPU 91 processes the data (the element data, the count data, etc.) and creates management data for the copying machine 4 connected to the data terminal 1. Further, a bill is printed out on the basis of the management data, or an instruction as to whether or not to dispatch a serviceman is made, and further, parts to be prepared at the time of dispatch are selected. [2] System Control Next, the control of the present system will be described with reference to FIGS. <Process on Copying Machine> First, the process in the control CPU 41 of the copying machine will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. The CPU 41 starts processing, for example, when the power is turned on, and performs initial settings such as clearing a memory and setting a standard mode (S41). Thereafter, the processing of steps S43 to S49 is executed. In step S43, a key switch group (numerical key group 47 for inputting numerical values, a print (PR) key 46 for a copy start command, a clear key 48 for a clear command of a set number) on the operation panel 40
), A switch group such as the trouble reset switch 49, data from a sensor group (not shown) arranged in the copying machine,
And a process for receiving data received from the data terminal 1 side, and a process for transmitting count data, element data, and the like to the data terminal 1. Step S47 is a step collectively showing processing required at the time of the copying operation. For example, the control includes paper feed control, scanning control, photosensitive drum control, and developing device control. Step S51 and subsequent steps are the processing when a trouble occurs.
That is, when JAM or other trouble occurs (S4
9; YES), a signal corresponding to the trouble that has occurred is transmitted to the control CPU 11 of the data terminal 1 (S51).
Also, trouble reset switch by operator etc.
When 49 is operated (S53; YES), a trouble reset signal is transmitted to the control CPU 11 of the data terminal 1 in the same manner as described above (S55). <Process on data terminal side> Next, the process in the control CPU 11 of the data terminal
This will be described with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIGS. (A) Main Routine First, the concept of the processing will be described in accordance with the main routine shown in FIG. The control CPU 11 starts the process when the power is turned on, executes an initial setting process (S13) if necessary,
A copy permission signal is transmitted to the control CPU 41 of the copying machine (S15). Thereafter, the process proceeds to a repetitive loop process of steps S17 to S33. In each subroutine step, the following processing is roughly performed. * Initial setting: S13 This is executed when the dip switch DIP / SW4 is on when the power is turned on, that is, in the initial setting mode (S11; YES). As described later, the center selection (telephone) number, data terminal ID number (DTI
D), center ID number (center ID) setting, and
Make an initial setting call. Also, it receives threshold data and the like. * Reception of count data: S17 Performs reception processing of various count data transmitted from the control CPU 41 of the copying machine. Data contents are emission code, JAM / trouble code, JAM
• Trouble counter, paper size counter, PM counter. The control CPU 11 of the data terminal updates these data to the latest values and holds them. Further, as described later, the total counter value at the date change time (for example, midnight) is held in association with each date. * Element data reception / data processing: S19 As described later, data corresponding to the average value and the standard deviation of each element data is sequentially calculated and updated to the latest value. * Trouble transmission determination: S21 As described later, it is determined whether or not trouble data and trouble recovery data should be transmitted to the center side. * Scheduled transmission determination: S23 At a predetermined scheduled transmission time, the scheduled transmission flag is set to 1, and various count data and various element data are transmitted to the center. After the transmission by the regular transmission is completed, the next regular transmission time data, the current time data, and the closing date data of the bill are returned from the center side. * Warning transmission determination: S25 As described later, the element data, the count value of the JAM counter, and the count value of the PM counter are each compared with a predetermined threshold. Further, based on the result, it is determined whether or not the warning data and the warning recovery data should be transmitted to the center side. Note that the predetermined threshold is a threshold selected by a threshold change process described later. * Manual transmission determination: S27 When the push switch 21 is turned on in a mode other than the initial setting mode, the manual transmission flag is set to 1. Thereby, various count data and various element data are transmitted to the center. * PM transmission judgment: S29 As described later, the count value is set to “0” by replacing parts.
The count value of the PM counter cleared before
Send to the center. * Call processing: S31 As described later, when any of the transmission flags is set to "1", the communication terminal device on the center side is called.
After connection with the CPU 91 on the center side, data communication is performed. * Threshold value change process: S33 As described later, a threshold value that gives an allowable range of various element data and count data is selected according to the number of copies in the past 30 days. (B) Subroutine Next, details of each subroutine step will be described with reference to FIGS.
This will be described in order with reference to FIG. * Initial setting process (Fig. 8) This process is performed when the power switch is turned on.
This is executed when the DIP SW4 is turned on (S11; YES). In this processing, the center selection number, the data terminal ID number (DTID), and the center ID number (center
An initial setting reception process of ID) and initial setting transmission are performed. First, the memory 15 is initialized (S101), and then the DIP switches DIP-SW1 to DIP-SW3 are turned on. When the DIP / SW1 is turned on (S111; YES), the mode becomes the input mode of the selection number (telephone number). That is, the numeric keypad of the copier
The numerical value input by 47 and displayed in the first digit of the display unit 45 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as center selection number data in response to the input of the print key 46 (S113; YES) (S115). ). The selection number input mode is DIP / S
It is released by turning off W1 (S117). Similarly, in response to the turning on of DIP SW2 (S121; YES), the DT
The ID input mode is set, and the numerical value displayed in the first digit of the display unit 45 corresponds to the input of the print key 46 (S123; YE
S), and is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as DTID data (S125). The DTID input mode is released by turning off the DIP SW2 (S127). Similarly, the center ID input mode is set in response to the turning on of the DIP / SW 3 (S131; YES), and is displayed in the first digit of the display unit 45 every time the print key 46 is input (S133; YES). The stored numerical value is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as the center ID data (S135). The center ID input mode is
It is released by turning off DIP / SW3 (S137). When all three types of data settings have been completed (S141; YES), the push switch 21 is validated. When the push switch 21 is pressed (S143; YES), an initial setting is transmitted to the center (S145). ). In other words, after the line connection with the center side,
The above two types of ID data are transmitted to 1. When the transmission is completed, the data (the cutoff date of the count data, the next scheduled transmission time, the current time, and the threshold of the warning time) transmitted from the CPU 91 of the center are received. In addition to the standard value (threshold 3: refer to the threshold change process in FIG. 14), two thresholds (threshold 2, threshold 1) changed according to the number of copies are used as the thresholds for the warning determination. Are received respectively. In addition, the above-mentioned standard value is initially selected as the initial value of the threshold value. When the transmission / reception ends, it is determined whether the communication has been normally performed (S147). As a result, if it is not performed normally (S147; O
N), the process returns to step S111, and waits for the push switch 21 to be turned on again. If the operation has been performed normally (S147; YES), the process returns to the main routine and executes the processing of step S15 and subsequent steps. * Reception of count data (FIG. 9) First, various count data transmitted from the copying machine 4 is taken in from the serial I / F 12 (S151) and stored in the corresponding memory area (S157). Also, when the date changes (for example, midnight)
Then (S153; YES), the value of the total counter indicating the total number of copies of the copying machine is used as the total count value of the day.
The date is stored in association with the date (S155). * Element data reception etc. (Fig. 10) In this subroutine step, a threshold (warning transmission judgment;
Data for comparison with (see Fig. 12) is calculated. First, element data groups x _i , _j transmitted from the copying machine every time the copy paper is discharged are taken in from the serial I / F 13 (S20).
1). Here, the subscript i represents the item number of the element data, and the subscript j represents the order in each item. Next, after substituting the initial value 1 for the item number i (S203),
For each item, the maximum value x _iMAX , the minimum value x _iMIN , and the sum
x _ik is sequentially updated (S205 to S217). Thereafter, the subscript j is incremented (S219), and if j is 4 or less, the process returns to the main routine. When the processes of steps S201 to S217 are performed four times for each item (S221; YES), the subscript j is reset to 1 (S223), and the initial value 1 is substituted for the item number i (S225). , The difference between the maximum and minimum values for each item
R _ik and the average value X _ik of the four data are calculated (S227 to S233). Step S229 is a step of providing initial values of the maximum value x _iMAX and the minimum value x _iMIN in preparation for the next processing in steps S205 to _S211 . After the processing of S227 to S233, steps S237 to S245,
Alternatively, the processing of steps S247 to S263 is executed. Steps S237 to S245 are processing when the total of the processing of S227 to S233 has not reached 33 times, and for each item, the sum R _iSUM of the difference R _ik between the maximum value and the minimum value, and
In this step, the sum X _iSUM of the average value X _ik of the four data is calculated for 32 data. On the other hand, steps S247 to S263 are processing when the total of the processing of S227 to S233 is 33 or more, and for each item, the sum R _{iSUM of} the difference R _{ik and} the sum of the average value X _ik X
_This is a step of calculating _iSUM for the latest 32 data and calculating respective average values ▼ and ▼. As described above, for each item of element data, the average value of the latest 128 (= 4 × 32) data
▼ and average value of deviation (value equivalent to standard deviation) ▲
Get ▼. * Trouble transmission determination (FIG. 11) This process is a subroutine for managing trouble transmission and trouble recovery transmission. That is, in the state of “trouble flag = 0” (S301; YES),
When a trouble code from the copier is detected (S303; YE
S), set the trouble flag and trouble transmission flag to “1”
Are set respectively (S305). In the state of “trouble flag = 1” (S301; NO),
When the paper ejection code from the copier is detected (S307; YE
S), the trouble flag is reset to "0", and the trouble recovery transmission flag is set to "1" (S309). This is because the paper discharge in the copying machine is an operation performed after recovery from the trouble. The call processing (FIG. 15) is executed by setting the trouble transmission flag and the trouble recovery transmission flag, and trouble data and trouble recovery data are transmitted to the center. * Warning transmission determination (FIG. 12) This processing is a subroutine for managing warning transmission and warning recovery transmission. Steps S401 to S427 are processes for executing a warning transmission when the value of the element data is out of the permissible range specific to the corresponding element data, and a warning recovery transmission when returning to within the permissible range. is there. Normally, a standard value is set for each element data as the unique allowable range. However, when the number of copies in the past 30 days exceeds a predetermined value, the allowable range is narrower than usual. Is set. First, an initial value “1” is set to the item number i indicating the type of element data (S401). Next, in step S411, a warning flag for the target element data (first time, the first element data) is determined. As a result, when the warning flag for the element data is “0” (S411; YES), it is determined whether the element data value is within the allowable range specific to the element data, in other words, the upper limit. Threshold _iU or less and lower threshold
It is determined whether it is within the range of _iL or more, and if it is out of the allowable range (S413; YES or S415; YES), a warning flag F _i and a warning transmission flag for the element data are set. Are set to "1" (S417). As a result, the call processing (Fig. 15) is executed,
Warning data is sent. On the other hand, in step S411, if the warning flag of the target element data is “1” (S411; NO), it is determined whether or not the value of the element data has returned to within the allowable range. the (S421; YES, and, S423; YES), a warning flag F _i for the element data is reset to "0", also set to "1" warning recovery transmission flag. As a result, the call processing (FIG. 15) is executed, and the alarm recovery data is transmitted to the center. After performing this processing until i reaches the number of items of the element data, in other words, after performing all the element data, the process proceeds to step S431 and thereafter. Steps S431 to S445 are to issue a warning when the count value (frequency) of the JAM counter and the PM counter exceeds a specific threshold, and to issue a warning recovery transmission when the count value returns below the threshold.
This is a process to be executed. Normally, a standard value for each count data is set as the unique threshold, but if the number of copies in the past 30 days exceeds a predetermined value, a lower threshold than the normal value is selected. Thus, the allowable range is narrower than usual. First, an initial value “i (the value of the last number of the element data + 1)” is set to the item number m indicating the type of the JAM counter and the PM counter (S431). Next, in step S433, the target JAM counter or P
Determine the warning flag for the M counter. As a result, when the warning flag for the JAM counter or the PM counter is “0” (S433; YES), whether the value of the counter is within the allowable range specific to the counter, that is, the threshold _m It is determined whether the counter has exceeded the threshold. If the counter has exceeded (S435; YES), the warning flag _Fm and the warning transmission flag for the counter are set to “1”, respectively (S43).
7). Thereby, the call processing (FIG. 15) is executed, and the warning data is transmitted to the center. On the other hand, in S433, if the warning flag for the target JAM counter or PM counter is “1” (S4
33; NO), the value of the counter determines whether the returned below the threshold, if the return (S441; reset to YES), a warning flag F _m for the counter "0", also ,
Set the warning recovery transmission flag to "1". As a result, the call processing (FIG. 15) is executed, and the alarm recovery data is transmitted to the center. After performing this processing until m reaches the total number of items of the counter and the element data, in other words, after performing all the counters, the process returns to the main routine. As described above, the warning transmission and the warning recovery transmission are managed. * PM transmission judgment (Fig. 13) In this physics, PM transmission is managed. First, an initial value “1” is set to the item number i indicating the type of the PM counter (S501), and after executing the processes of steps S503 to S511, the value of i is incremented, that is, the type of the PM counter is changed. Alternately, repeat the above process. Here, when the PM counter is cleared (S505; YES, and S507; YES), the processing of S503 to S511 stores the count value immediately before the PM counter is cleared (S509),
This is the process of setting the transmission flag to "1" (S511). The PM counter is cleared by a serviceman when replacing a part corresponding to the PM counter. When the “PM transmission flag = 1” is set, the call processing (the
15) is executed, and PM data (the type of the replaced part, the count value immediately before the replacement) is transmitted to the center. * Threshold value change process (FIG. 14) In this subroutine, a threshold value to be used in the warning transmission determination is selected from three threshold values. At first, as described above, the standard value (threshold value 3) is selected in the initial setting process. First, it is determined whether the date has been updated, that is, whether it is midnight (S701). If updated (S701; YES), the copier management apparatus determines whether 30 days have passed since installation, and if not, (S703; NO), substantially Jump this subroutine and return to the main routine. On the other hand, if 30 days have passed since the installation (S703; YES), the number of copies for the past 30 days is calculated. That is, the total count value of the date 31 days ago is subtracted from the total count value of the previous day, and this is subtracted into the number of copies for 30 days (C / V)
(S705). Next, a threshold value is selected according to the number of copies in the past 30 days. That is, if "the number of copies in the past 30 days <B"(S711; NO), the number of copies is within the normal range, and it is not necessary to change the threshold, so threshold 3 is selected (S715). Also, if “B sheets ≦ the number of copies in the past 30 days <A sheets” (S711; YES), since the number of copies is larger than the standard amount, threshold value 2 is selected (S713) to slightly narrow the allowable range. . If “A sheets ≦ the number of copies in the past 30 days” (S707; YES), the threshold 1 is selected (S709) because the number of copies is much larger than the standard amount, and the allowable range is sufficiently narrowed. . As described above, according to the total number of copies (copier usage frequency) in the past 30 days,
Selected for each data. In the above description, three thresholds are prepared in advance for each data, and these are configured so that they can be selected as a set (threshold 1, threshold 2, threshold 3). May be prepared in such a manner that only the standard value is prepared, and the standard value is shifted by a predetermined value determined according to the data type in accordance with the frequency of use of the copying machine. * Call processing (FIGS. 15 and 16) In this processing, the center is called in response to "any transmission flag = 1" and data corresponding to the transmission flag is transmitted. That is, if any of the transmission flags is set to "1"(S601; YES), it is determined that the redial is not in standby (S603; N).
O), on the condition that the communication line with the center-side modem 72 is not connected (S605; NO) and that the off-hook signal and the selection signal are not transmitted to the communication line (S607; NO), Command to send the off-hook signal and the selection signal to the communication line (S609). By the process in step S609, the determination in the next step S607 is “YES”. In this case, if the telephone 53 of the user is "busy (in use of the communication line)" and the modem 52 cannot send the off-hook signal and the selection signal to the communication line (S611; YES), A time after a certain time is set as a redial time (S613). S6
By the process at 13, the determination in step S603 is "YES" until the redial time comes, and the center modem 72
Is not executed. When the redialing time comes, S603; NO → S605; NO → S607; NO → S609 again instructs the modem 52 to send the off-hook signal and the selection signal to the communication line. Also, as a result of the off-hook signal and the selection signal being transmitted from the modem 52 to the communication line by the processing in step S609, the modem 72 on the center side is "busy (the communication line on the center side is occupied)". If it turns out (S6
15; YES), redial time processing (FIG. 16; described later) is executed (S617). As a result, the determination in step S603 is “YES” until the time set in the redial time process, and the calling process of the center-side modem 72 is not executed. At the time set in this process, the center modem 72 is called again. On the other hand, by the processing in step S609, the off-hook signal and the selection signal are transmitted from the modem 52 to the communication line, and as a result, when the communication line with the center-side modem 72 is connected (S605; YES), It waits for a transmission enabled state due to data transmission permission, and when it becomes a transmission enabled state (S62
1; YES), the data is transmitted to the center side (S625).
The data transmitted in step S625 is data defined by the transmission flag set to "1". For example, when the warning transmission flag is set to “1”, information on data outside the allowable range is transmitted. Thus, when all data is transmitted (S623; YE
S), resets the transmission flag to “0” (S627), and
A line disconnection signal is sent to the communication line to disconnect the communication line with the center-side modem 72 (S629). Next, the redial time process (S617, FIG. 16) will be described. The redial time process is a process of setting a retransmission (redial = recall) time when a connection with the center-side CPU 91 cannot be established (S615; YES). First, a counter (redial counter) for counting the number of redials is counted up (S651). The counter is cleared after connection of the communication line with the center. Next, it is determined whether or not the current call is a call in an emergency mode (for example, trouble transmission). As a result, if the mode is the emergency mode (S653; YES), the condition is that the redial counter value is less than a times (= about 10 to 20 times) (S63).
55; YES), the time one minute after the present time is set as the next call (redial) time (S657). That is, in the emergency mode, the center is called every minute until the number of redials reaches a. If the number of redials in the emergency mode reaches a (S655; NO), a predetermined time on the next day is set as the redial time (S659). If a connection cannot be made to the center even after a call has been made (it is assumed that the line is abnormally congested or the center CPU 91 stops operating, etc.), the communication line on the user side is occupied and the telephone 53 or the like is used. This is so as not to disturb. On the other hand, if it is determined in step S653 that the mode is not the emergency mode (S653; NO), any even minute time within 20 minutes from the present time is provided on condition that the redial counter value is less than b (S661; YES). Is set as the next call (redial) time using a random number (S663). As a result, even when the center is called from a large number of data terminals, the redial time of each data terminal is scattered and the possibility of connection to the center is increased. If the number of redials in the non-emergency mode is b or more (S661; NO), a predetermined time on the next day is set as the next redial time (S665). If the center cannot be connected despite the number of times the center is called (abnormal congestion of the communication line, operation stop of the center side CPU 91, etc.), the communication line on the user side is occupied and the telephone 53 or the like is occupied. This is so as not to hinder use. The call processing is performed as described above, data is transmitted to the center, and data from the center is received as necessary. <Process at the center> Next, the CPU 9 installed in the computer at the center
The processing in 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 17 to 19. (A) F1 to F7 key processing (FIG. 17) The CPU 91 starts processing by connecting a power supply, and first executes environment setting of a modem, a printer, and the like (S6
1). After that, according to the input operation of each key switch F1 ~ F4 on the keyboard 93, the following mode is set, or
Perform the following processing. -F1 key operation (S63; YES) The reception mode of model registration is set (S65). That is, new registration such as the model name, the number of items of element data, the name of each element data, the standard threshold value and the non-standard threshold value of each element data, the standard threshold value and the non-standard threshold value of each counter, and the like are received. -F2 key operation (S67; YES) The registration acceptance mode of the user master is set (S69).
That is, new registration such as a user name, an address, a telephone number, a model name, a machine number, and a regular transmission date and time is accepted. Also, the DTID is set automatically. -F key 3 operation (S71; YES) Trouble status is displayed (S73). That is, the user information (user name, address, telephone number, model name) of the copying machine that has caused the trouble, the date and time of occurrence, and the like are displayed on the display 92 together with the trouble content. The number of troubles is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 irrespective of the operation of the F3 key. -F4 key operation (S75; YES) A warning status is displayed (S77). That is, the user information of the copying machine that has issued the warning is displayed on the display 92 together with the contents of the warning. The number of warnings is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 regardless of the operation of the F4 key. -F5 key operation (S79; YES) The non-reception status is displayed (S81). That is, the user information of the copying machine that does not perform the scheduled transmission even after the predetermined scheduled transmission time has passed is displayed on the display 92. The number of unreceived messages is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 regardless of the operation of the F4 key. -F6 key operation (S83; YES) The display mode of the user data is set (S85). That is, when the user is selected, the display 92 displays the user information. When the submenu is selected, the count values of various counters (total counter, counter for each paper size, JAM counter, trouble counter, PM counter) and element data of the user copying machine are displayed monthly.
Or, it is displayed for each item. -F7 key operation (S87; YES) The invoice is printed out (S89). For example, the charge amount is calculated based on the count value of the total counter and a predetermined formula, and the printer 94 is activated to print out. (B) Interruption processing (FIGS. 18 and 19) The CPU 91 receives data transmitted from the data terminal by an interruption processing, and performs a predetermined processing on the received data (S91). First, when an interrupt occurs due to an incoming call from the communication line,
The DTID and the transmission data from the data terminal are received (S901). If a communication error occurs (S903; YES),
On condition that the number of occurrences of the error is not more than a predetermined number (S913; YES), the data terminal is requested to retransmit the DTID and transmission data (S905). If the number of occurrences of the error exceeds a predetermined number (S913; NO), the communication line with the data terminal is disconnected (S909). On the other hand, when the communication with the data terminal is completed normally (S907; YES), the communication line with the data terminal is disconnected (S909), and the data for each item and each month are counted, and the image display data selected by the operator is output. Create (S911). As described above, the processing is performed by the CPU 41 of the copying machine, the CPU 11 of the data terminal, and the CPU 91 of the center, and the present system that connects each user to the center, which is the administrator, via the communication line is controlled.

【The invention's effect】

As described above, according to the present invention, when the data affecting the operation state of the image forming apparatus is out of the allowable range, the fact is transmitted to the central management device, and the allowable range is changed based on the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. Is an image forming apparatus management apparatus. According to the present invention, since the allowable range is changed based on the frequency of use, the fact that the data affecting the operating state of the image forming apparatus has deviated from the allowable range can be transmitted to the centralized management device at a more appropriate time. Therefore, there is an effect that an appropriate response can be taken at a more appropriate time.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of a system in which the apparatus of the embodiment is used, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a circuit configuration of the system, FIG.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of an operation panel of a copying machine to which the embodiment device is connected, FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of data transmitted from the copying machine to the embodiment device, and FIG. 6 is a control CPU of the copying machine. 6 is a flowchart showing the processing of FIG. 7 to 16 are flowcharts showing processing in the control CPU of the embodiment device,
FIG. 7 is a main routine, FIG. 8 is an initial setting processing subroutine, FIG. 9 is a count data receiving processing subroutine, FIG. 10 is an element data receiving and data processing subroutine, FIG.
FIG. 13 shows a warning transmission determination subroutine, FIG. 13 shows a PM transmission determination subroutine, FIG.
FIG. 16 shows a call processing subroutine, and FIG. 16 shows a redial time processing subroutine. 17 to 19 are flowcharts showing processing in a control CPU of a computer of a center connected to the apparatus of the embodiment via a communication network, FIG. 17 is a main part of a main routine, and FIG. FIG. 19 shows details of the interrupt processing. 1 Data terminal (DT), 4 Copy machine, 90 Computer at center, 11 CPU of DT, 41 CPU of copy machine, 91 CP at center
U, DIP / SW1 to DIP / SW4 ... Dip switch, 21 ... Push switch, 52 ... DT side modem, 72 ... Center side modem, 53 ... DT side phone, 73 ... Center side phone,

Continuation of front page (56) References JP-A-54-44522 (JP, A) JP-A-62-280771 (JP, A) JP-A-61-88279 (JP, A) JP-A-58-221409 (JP) JP-A-64-34835 (JP, A) JP-A-3-162055 (JP, A) JP-A-61-193943 (JP, U) (58) Fields investigated (Int. Cl. ⁷ , DB G03G 15/00 303 G03G 15/36 G03G 21/00 370-540 G03G 21/02-21/04 G03G 21/14 G03G 21/20 H04M 11/00-11/10 B41J 29/38-29/393 H04N 1/00-1/00 108

Claims (4)

(57) [Claims] 1. An image forming apparatus management apparatus which collects data relating to an image forming apparatus and communicates with a central management apparatus via a communication network based on the collected data. Collecting means for collecting data affecting the data, determining means for determining whether or not the data collected by the collecting means is within a set allowable range, and when the collected data exceeds the allowable range. Transmitting means for calling the centralized management apparatus and transmitting the effect thereof; calculating means for calculating the frequency of use of the image forming apparatus; and changing means for changing the setting of the allowable range based on the calculated frequency of use of the image forming apparatus. An image forming apparatus management apparatus, comprising: 2. The apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said image forming apparatus is a copying machine. 3. The calculating means calculates the frequency of use based on the number of images formed per unit time, and the changing means expands the allowable range when the frequency of use is low, and narrows the allowable range when the frequency of use is high. The image forming apparatus management apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the direction is changed. 4. The image forming apparatus managing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said collecting means collects information on the number of times of paper jams of the image forming paper.