JP3397763B2 - Image forming apparatus, communication control apparatus, and abnormality notification method - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus provided with a communication control device for performing communication processing with an external device, a communication control device and an abnormality notification method.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in an image forming apparatus in which a main body of the image forming apparatus is equipped with a communication control device capable of communicating with the outside (host computer) and the management of the image forming apparatus can be performed remotely, the main body causes an abnormality or a paper I constantly monitor the communication control device for frequent occurrences of clogging,
It was configured to automatically report to the outside when the predetermined conditions were met.

Further, in order to manage the occurrence of a paper jam that seems to be the same cause in the image forming apparatus, the data is automatically transferred from the communication control unit side when the paper jam of the same paper jam code occurs continuously. Was configured to do.

Further, there is only one type of host computer on the management base side that receives the data of the image forming apparatus, and one type of management base executes different types of data management such as abnormality information and counter values of each image forming apparatus. Was.

[0005]

However, since no automatic report is made when an abnormality occurs in the communication control device itself or an error occurs in data communication with the image forming apparatus, the image forming apparatus operates normally when there is no report at the management base. There were problems such as not being able to judge that they are doing it.

Further, particularly in the case of performing remote management in the image forming apparatus, it is necessary to accurately determine that a specific paper jam frequently occurs according to the frequency of use, and the current method does not. There is a problem in that management cannot be performed according to the frequency of use such as the time interval and the number of times of image formation during that time.

Further, since the paper jam information transferred from the image forming apparatus is often duplicated, it is very difficult to create a paper jam history of a specific image forming apparatus outside. there were.

Further, when a plurality of management bases carry out different jobs and the data to be managed are different, there is a problem that they cannot be managed accurately.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to determine whether or not the transfer of abnormal information to an external device is due to a request from the external device. An image forming apparatus, a communication control device, and an abnormality notifying method that can prevent the necessary abnormality information from being lost by controlling the clearing process of the abnormality information that is retained and stored according to the determination result are provided. It is to be.

[0010]

A first invention according to the present invention is a first invention for controlling an image forming sequence of an image forming means.
Control means, second control means for controlling data transfer between the first control means and an external device, and paper transferred from the first control means to the second control means. Data holding means for holding and storing jam information, judging means for judging whether or not the transfer of the paper jam information to the external device is due to a request from the external device, and the data according to the judgment by the judging means. And a clear processing control means for controlling the clear processing of the paper jam information held and stored in the holding means.

A second aspect of the present invention is a communication control device for transferring abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external device, the data storing and storing the abnormality information acquired from the image forming apparatus. A holding unit, a communication control unit for transferring the abnormality information held and stored in the data holding unit to an external device, and whether or not the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is requested by the external device. It is characterized by having a judging means for judging and a clearing processing controlling means for controlling the clearing processing of the abnormality information held and stored in the data holding means according to the judgment by the judging means.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, the clear processing control means does not clear the abnormal information if the transfer of the abnormal information to the external device is requested by the external device. Characterize.

In a fourth aspect of the present invention, the clear processing control means clears the abnormality information if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on the request from the external device. It is characterized by

A fifth aspect of the present invention is an image forming apparatus for transferring abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external apparatus, and a data holding unit that holds and stores the abnormality information, and the data. Communication control means for transferring the abnormality information held and stored in the holding means to an external device, and determination means for determining whether or not the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is due to a request from the external device, And a clear processing control means for controlling a clear processing of the abnormality information held and stored in the data holding means according to the judgment by the judging means.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the clear processing control means does not clear the abnormal information if transfer of the abnormal information to the external device is requested by the external device. Characterize. A seventh invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the clear processing control means clears the abnormality information if transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on a request from the external device. The image forming apparatus according to claim 5. An eighth aspect of the present invention is an abnormality notifying method for transmitting abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external device, the abnormality being held and stored in a data holding unit that holds and stores the abnormality information. A data transfer step of transferring information to an external device, a determination step of determining whether the transfer of abnormal information to the external device is due to a request from the external device, and the determination step in the determination step, And a clear processing step for controlling a clear processing of the abnormality information held and stored in the data holding means. A ninth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the clear processing step, if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is based on a request from the external device, the abnormality information is not cleared. A tenth aspect of the present invention is characterized in that, in the clear processing step, if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on a request from the external device, the abnormality information is cleared. To do. An eleventh invention according to the present invention is characterized in that, in the clear processing step, if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is based on that a predetermined transfer condition is satisfied, the abnormality information is cleared. And First according to the present invention
The invention of 2 is characterized in that the predetermined transfer condition is a time when an abnormality occurs, a paper jam occurs a set number of times, or a paper jam of the same paper jam code occurs consecutively.

[0016]

1 and 2 are block diagrams for explaining the structure of an image forming apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, reference numeral 100 is an image forming apparatus main body (main body), 800 is a control means for controlling an image forming operation,
900 is a communication control means for transmitting / receiving data to / from an external communication line, 908 is a public line which is an external communication line, and 999 is a management base for managing the image forming apparatus main body 100. A CPU 901 that controls the communication control unit 900, a memory (RAM) 903 for temporarily holding communication data,
It is composed of a modem (submodulation unit) 905, a network control unit (NCU) 906 and the like for putting digital communication data on the public line 908.

In the image forming apparatus constructed as described above, the second control means (the communication control means 90 in this embodiment) is used.
0) is capable of communicating with an external device (host computer 999), the first judging means (CPU 901) detects and judges the storage state of the information held in the data holding means (RAM 903), When it is determined that the storage state is abnormal, the second control unit automatically notifies the external device of that fact, and prevents the external device from transferring the illegal data due to the abnormality of the data holding unit. It enables the apparatus to recognize the state of the image forming apparatus.

The second control means (communication control means 90)
0) and the first control means (control means 800) during data transfer, the second determination means (CPU 901) analyzes the transfer data transferred from the first control means to the second control means. If the storage state of the data holding means (RAM 903) is determined to be abnormal, the second control means automatically notifies the external device of that fact, and the first control means It is possible to prevent the transfer of the illegal data due to the abnormal data transfer, and allow the external device to recognize the state of the image forming device.

Further, during the data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( When the paper jam information is transferred to and held in the RAM 903) and the preset external transfer start condition is met, the second control unit transfers the paper jam information held in the data holding unit to the external device. In addition to controlling the transfer, the clear processing of the paper jam information stored and stored in the data holding means is controlled based on the normal transfer state of the paper jam information, and due to the poor transfer between the second control means and the external device. It is possible to prevent the paper jam information held in the data holding means from being lost.

Further, during the data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( When the paper jam information is transferred to and held in the RAM 903) and the preset external transfer start condition is met, the second control unit (communication control unit 900) holds the paper jam in the data holding unit. Controls the transfer of information to an external device, controls the clearing process of the paper jam information held and stored in the data holding means based on the transfer factor to the external device, and transfers the data due to the transfer request from the external device. It is possible to prevent the paper jam information held by the holding means from being lost.

Further, during the data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( When the paper jam information is transferred to and held in the RAM 903) and the preset external transfer start condition is met, the second control unit transfers the paper jam information held in the data holding unit to the external device. In addition to controlling the transfer, it controls the clear processing of the paper jam information held and stored in the data holding means based on the clear processing presence / absence setting state by the instructing means, and retains and stores it according to the clear processing presence / absence setting by the user instructing means. It is possible to select whether or not to execute the clear processing of the generated paper jam information.

Further, during data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( In a state where the paper jam information is transferred to and held in the RAM 903), the second control unit (communication control unit 900) causes the data holding unit (RAM).
The external device manages the history of the same paper jam information by controlling the transfer of desired data held in the data holding means to the external device based on the occurrence frequency of the same paper jam information held in (903). It is possible.

Further, during data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( In a state where the same paper jam information is transferred to and held in the RAM 903), the second control unit (communication control unit) is based on the difference between the number of image forming sheets counted by the counting unit when the paper jam occurs this time and the previous time. 900) controls the transfer of desired data held in the data holding means (RAM 903) to the external device, so that the external device can manage the history of the same paper jam information that frequently occurs when the number of sheets is less than a predetermined number. To do.

Further, during the data transfer between the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means (control means 800) during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100), the data holding means ( With the same paper jam information being transferred and held in the RAM 903), the second control means (communication control means) is based on the time difference between the present time and the previous paper jam occurrence time managed by the management means (CPU 901). 900) controls the transfer of desired data held in the data holding unit (RAM 903) to the external device, so that the external device can manage the history of the same paper jam information that frequently occurs before the elapse of a predetermined time. And

FIG. 3 shows the image forming apparatus main body 1 shown in FIG.
It is sectional drawing explaining the hardware constitutions of 00.

In the figure, reference numeral 200 is a recycle automatic document feeder (RDF) for automatically feeding a document, 300 is a sorter for sorting sheets after image forming processing, and 400 is an automatic computer form feeder (CFF). The RDF 200, the sorter 300, and the CFF 400 are configured to be systematically combined with the image forming apparatus main body 100.

In the image forming apparatus main body 100, 101
Is an original table glass as an original table. Reference numeral 102 denotes an optical system as an image reading unit, which includes an original lamp (exposure lamp) 103, a scanning mirror, a lens, a motor 104, and the like.
The original lamp 103 illuminates the original, and the reflected light from the original is applied to the photosensitive drum 105 by the scanning mirror and the lens. It should be noted that an optical sensor or a mechanical sensor serving as a detecting means is arranged at a predetermined position.

Around the photosensitive drum 105, a high voltage unit 106, a blank exposure unit 107, and a potential sensor 1
08, developing device 109, transfer charger 110, separation charger 1
11, a cleaning device 112 and the like are provided, and these constitute image recording means.

The photosensitive drum 105 is rotated by the main motor 113 in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG. 3, is corona-charged by the high-voltage unit 106, and when the optical system 102 irradiates the reflected light of the document, the electrostatic latent image is emitted. An image is formed. This electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 109 and visualized as a toner image.

On the other hand, the transfer paper sent from the upper cassette 114 or the lower cassette 115 through the pickup rollers 116 and 117 into the main body 100 by the paper feed rollers 118 and 119 is transferred to the front end of the toner image and the transfer paper by the registration roller 120. After being timed so as to coincide with the leading end of the toner image, the toner image is fed to the photosensitive drum 105, and the toner image is transferred by the transfer charger 110. After this transfer, the transfer paper is separated from the photosensitive drum 105 by the separation charging device 111, guided to the fixing device 122 by the conveying belt 121, and fixed by pressing and heating.
3 is discharged to the outside of the main body 100. The surface of the photosensitive drum 105 is cleaned by the cleaning device 112.

Further, the main body 100 is equipped with a deck 124 capable of accommodating, for example, 4000 transfer sheets.
The lifter 125 of the deck 124 ascends according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper always contacts the paper feed roller 126.

In FIG. 3, 127 is a paper discharge flapper, which is a double-sided recording side or a multiplex recording side and a discharge side (sorter 3).
00) is switched. The transfer sheet sent from the discharge roller 123 is switched to the double-sided recording side or the multiplex recording side by the discharge flapper 127. Also, 12
A lower conveyance path 8 guides the transfer paper sent from the discharge roller 123 to the re-feed tray 130 by reversing the transfer paper via the reversing path 129.

Reference numeral 131 denotes a multiple flapper for switching between double-sided recording and multiple recording paths. By tilting this flapper to the left, the transfer paper is directly guided to the lower conveyance path 128 without passing through the reversing path 129. A paper feed roller 132 feeds the transfer paper to the photosensitive drum 105 side through the path 133. Reference numeral 134 denotes a discharge roller which is arranged near the discharge flapper 127 and discharges the transfer sheet switched to the discharge side by the discharge flapper 127 to the outside of the machine.

At the time of double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiplex recording (multiplex copying), the ejected flapper 127 is raised and the recorded (copied) transfer paper is turned over again through the paths 129 and 128. It is stored in the paper feed tray 130. This time,
When recording on both sides, tilt the multiple flapper 131 to the right,
In addition, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted leftward during multiple recording.

At the time of the back side recording or the multiplex recording to be performed next, the transfer sheets stored in the total refeed tray 130 are transferred from the bottom one by one.
The sheets are guided one by one to the registration roller 120 of the main body 100 via the path 133 by the sheet feeding roller 132.

When the transfer sheet is reversed and discharged from the main body 100, the discharge flapper 127 is raised and the multiple flapper 131 is tilted to the right to reverse the recorded transfer sheet to the reverse path 1.
29, and the trailing edge of the transfer paper is the first feed roller 14
After passing 0, the reversing roller 142 conveys it to the second roller 141 side, and the discharging roller 134 turns over the transfer paper and discharges it outside the machine. Note that reference numeral 150 is a multi-bypass tray, and 210 is a reservation tray.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed arrangement of the control means 800 and the communication control means 900 shown in FIG.

In the figure, 801 is a CPU for controlling the main body 100, and 802 is a read-only memory (RO) storing a control procedure (control program) for the main body 100.
M), and the CPU 801 controls each constituent device connected via the bus in accordance with the control procedure stored in the ROM 802. A random access memory (RAM) 803 is a main storage device used as a storage area for input data, a work storage area, and the like. Note that 804
Is an input / output port (I / O), 805 is an interface (I / F), and 806 is a RAM.

Further, the input / output port 804 inputs the output of the control signal of the CPU 801 for the load of the main motor 113 and the like and the signal of the fixing device 122 and the like to the CPU 801. Reference numeral 900 denotes a communication control unit of the public line 908, and the CPU 901 controls the communication control unit 900.

An interface (I / F) 907 such as RS-232C is connected to the main body 100, and when a data transfer request is made, data is transferred from the image forming apparatus via the interface 907. , The transfer data is RA provided in the communication control means 900.
The data is temporarily stored in M903, and after the data transfer from the image forming apparatus is completed, the NCU 906 is controlled to establish a communication line connection with the outside, and after the line connection, the data is transferred to the outside through the modem 905 and the NCU 906.

When data is transferred from the outside, the transfer data is temporarily held in the RAM 903,
Interface 907 in response to a request from the image forming apparatus
Data is transferred to the image forming apparatus via the. The data referred to here is the data stored inside the main body 100, and the data transfer request means that the image forming apparatus control abnormality or paper jam frequently occurs on the main body 100 side, or the regular report time. When the above occurs, the above request may occur or a data request from an external management side may occur. Reference numeral 904 is an input / output port (I / O), and 909 is a RAM.

The control means 800 and the communication control means 900 are connected via the interfaces 805 and 907,
Control data is exchanged between the control means 800 of the main body 100 and the communication control means 900 of the public line 908.

FIG. 5 is a plan view for explaining the structure of the operating portion arranged on the upper surface of the main body 100 shown in FIG.

In the figure, 601 is an asterisk (*).
A key, which is pressed by an operator (user) in a setting mode such as setting a binding amount or setting a size for erasing a document frame. 627 is a cursor key (up / down key)
Is pressed when selecting a setting item in the setting mode. An OK key 628 is pressed to confirm the setting item in the setting mode.

Reference numeral 606 denotes an all reset key, which is pressed when returning to the standard mode. The all reset key 606 is also pressed when returning from the auto shutoff state to the standard mode. A clear / stop key 604 functions as a clear key during standby (standby) and as a stop key during image recording. This clear /
The stop key 604 is also used when releasing the set number of copies. Also, clear / stop key 604
Is pressed even when the continuous copying is interrupted, and the copying operation is stopped after the copying at the time of pressing is completed.

Reference numeral 605 is a copy key. A numeric keypad 603 is pressed when setting the number of copies. It is also pressed when setting the asterisk key (*) mode. A memory key 619 allows the user to register modes that are frequently used. Here, the four modes M1 to M4 are configured to be registered. 6
Image forming density keys 11 and 612 are pressed when manually adjusting the image forming density.

Reference numeral 613 denotes an AE key, which is depressed when the image forming density is automatically adjusted according to the original density, or when the AE (automatic density adjustment) is canceled and the density adjustment is switched to manual (manual). A copy paper selection key 607 is pressed when selecting the upper cassette 114, the lower cassette 115, the paper deck 124, and the multi-bypass tray 150. When the copy sheet selection key 607 is pressed while the original is placed on the RDF 200, automatic paper cassette selection (APS) is selected, and a cassette having the same size as the original is automatically selected. Reference numeral 610 denotes a unity size key, which is pressed when forming an image of the same size (actual size).

Reference numeral 616 denotes an automatic scaling key, which is pressed to automatically reduce or enlarge the image of the original according to the designated transfer paper size. Reference numeral 626 denotes a double-sided key, which is pressed when performing double-sided recording from a single-sided original, double-sided recording from a double-sided original, or single-sided recording from a double-sided original. A binding margin key 625 can create a binding margin of a designated length on the left side of the transfer sheet. Reference numeral 624 is a photographic key, which is pressed when an image is formed on a photographic document.

Reference numeral 623 denotes a multiple key, which is pressed when creating (combining) images from the two originals on the same surface of the transfer paper. Reference numeral 620 denotes an original frame erasing key, which is pressed when the user erases the frame of a standard size original document, and at that time, the original size is set by the asterisk key 601. A sheet frame erasing key 621 is pressed to erase the original frame according to the copy paper size. Zoom keys 617 and 618 are provided. A folding key 615 is pressed when setting the folding mode.

Reference numeral 629 is a cover mode setting key, which is pressed when the front and back covers are created and a slip sheet is inserted. 6
A page continuous copy key 30 is depressed when the left and right sides of a two-page spread book are continuously copied. Reference numeral 614 denotes a sheet discharge method selection key for selecting a staple sort, sort, group discharge method. When the stapled sorter is connected to the sheet after recording, the staple sort mode, the sort mode,
You can select or cancel the group mode. Reference numeral 631 denotes a reservation key, which is pressed when starting the setting of the copy mode for the reserved document placed on the reservation tray 210 and when canceling the reservation setting. 632
Is a reservation setting key, which is used as an enter key when setting the reservation mode.

Reference numeral 633 is a guide key, which is used when displaying explanations of functions corresponding to various keys on the message display. Reference numeral 701 denotes L for displaying information regarding image formation.
It is a CD (liquid crystal) type message display,
Characters and figures are displayed with 96 × 192 dots. For example, use the numeric keypad 603 to set the number of image formations
08,609, same size key 610, zoom keys 617,6
The copy magnification set in 18, the paper size selected by the copy paper selection key 607, a message indicating the state of the main body 100, a guide message indicating the operating procedure, and other setting contents of various modes are displayed.

Reference numeral 704 denotes an AE display, which is an AE key 61.
Lights when AE (automatic density adjustment) is selected by 3. Note that 634 is an interrupt key and 635 is an ID key. Reference numeral 709 denotes a preheat indicator, which lights up in the preheat state. When the RDF 200 is used in the standard mode, the number of images to be formed is 1, the density AE mode, automatic paper selection, normal magnification, single-sided image formation to single-sided image formation. R
Number of images formed in standard mode when DF200 is not used 1
Sheet, density manual, normal size, single-sided original to single-sided image formation are set. The difference between when the RDF 200 is used and when it is not used is determined by whether or not a document is set on the RDF 200.

Next, the exchange of data between the image forming apparatus and the communication control apparatus will be described.

The current state of the image forming apparatus main body 100 such as the power ON / OFF state of the image forming apparatus, whether or not the image can be formed, how many images are formed, and whether or not the image is being formed is always displayed on the communication control means 900. The report is also made when a paper jam occurs and an abnormality occurs that makes it impossible to perform an image forming operation.

Further, the communication control means 900 has a predetermined transfer condition, and if, for example, it is set to report when an abnormality occurs, when the abnormality is reported from the image forming apparatus main body 100, data is automatically sent to the outside. Transfer shall be performed.

Here, the data to be transferred includes the image forming apparatus ID, the reason for transfer, the paper jam history, regardless of the reason for transfer.
This is common data that consists of detailed counters for each color and size, and the paper jam history consists of the date and time of occurrence, the total number of image formations at the time of occurrence, and the paper jam code. Each time there is a report, a maximum of 30 items stored in the communication control means 900 is added.

Further, the transfer conditions are the above-described abnormality occurrence, the occurrence of a paper jam every set number of times, the continuous jam of the same paper jam code, and the request from the outside.

Next, the control operation when a paper jam occurs during the operation of the image forming apparatus main body 100 will be described.

When the CPU 801 determines that a paper jam has occurred during operation of the main body 100, the interface 80
5, the paper jam information such as the paper jam code, the time of occurrence, and the current total number of copies is transferred to the RAM 903 of the communication control means 900. These pieces of paper jam information are held in the RAM 903.

Then, the CPU 901 makes a transfer condition judgment based on a predetermined transfer condition, and when it is judged that a report should be made, the modem 905, NCU 9
It is transferred to the outside via 06. The data transferred at this time is composed of the ID of the image forming apparatus main body 100, the reason for transfer, paper jam information, color-specific information, size-specific information, the number of detailed images formed, and the like.

In this way, using the backup-possible RAM for holding the transmission data in the communication control means 900, for example, the RAM 903, the internal data of the main body 100, the information of the jammed paper, the history of the abnormal image forming operation, etc. Holds, and when there is an inquiry from outside, RAM
By returning the data held in 903 to the outside,
Externally, each image forming apparatus is diagnosed and managed.

However, if the contents of the RAM data are corrupted due to a decrease in the battery voltage to be backed up, the above-mentioned diagnosis and management cannot be performed accurately.

Therefore, as will be described later, the operation status of the RAM 903 which can be backed up is monitored, and when an abnormality is detected, the fact is automatically reported to the outside as shown in FIG. 6 and recognized by the host computer 999 at the management base. You can

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the first data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (4) indicate each step.

CP of communication control means 900 when power is turned on
This flow starts when the U901 is reset. First, it is judged whether or not the RAM clear switch is ON (1). If NO, the process proceeds to step (3) and thereafter, and YE
If it is S, the RAM 903 is cleared and, for example, 5 from the beginning.
An ASCII code relating to “C, A, N, O, N (not limited to this code)” is set in the byte (2).

On the other hand, when the normal power is turned on, step (3)
Proceed to, specific data at a specific address in the RAM 903,
For example, it is determined whether or not ASCII code data relating to "C, A, N, O, N (not limited to this code)" is stored in 5 bytes, and if YES, it is determined that the RAM state is normal and the processing ends. If NO (when data different from the ASCII code data is stored), it is determined that the RAM status is abnormal and the fact is transferred to the outside (4), and the processing is ended.

Further, at the time of data transfer between the communication control means 900 and the image forming apparatus main body 100, the command identification I
Data transfer abnormality is monitored by D, data length, delimiter indicating the end of data, and checksum that totals transfer data. When an abnormality occurs in the data transfer due to such a situation, the communication control means 900 is provided with the latest information of the main body 100.
Can not be sent to.

Therefore, when such a data transfer abnormality continues for a certain period of time, as shown in FIG. 7, the fact can be automatically reported and recognized by the host computer 999 at the management base.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the second data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (8) indicate each step.
In addition, the image forming apparatus main body 100 to the communication control unit 900
For example, “01H, 05H, 02H, 08H,
The data composed of "FFH" is transmitted. Where 0
1H indicates the type of command, 05H indicates the length indicating the data length, 02H indicates the parameter of this command, 08H indicates the checksum data obtained by summing the data values, and FFH is the delimiter indicating the end of the data. is there.

First, it is determined whether or not the data is received from the image forming apparatus main body 100 (1). If NO, the process is ended. If YES, there is a command corresponding to 01H, and a parameter corresponding to 02H. Whether the data length is 05H or checksum is 08H
Or, it is confirmed whether the final data is FFH, that is, whether the received data is normal (2), and if YES (if all are normal), the command is executed (7) and the timer shown in FIG. The timer 1 counted up in the processing is cleared (8), and the processing is ended.

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (2) is NO (when the received data is abnormal), the main body 100 is given a code N.
Respond AK (3). Next, it is determined whether or not the timer count value of the timer 1 has reached, for example, 1 minute (4), if NO, the processing is terminated, and if YES, it is determined whether or not a data abnormality has already been reported (5). , YE
If the result is S, the process is terminated, and if the result is NO, it is reported to the external management destination host computer 999 that a data transfer abnormality has occurred (6), and the process is terminated.

The timer 1 is set to 100 as shown in FIG.
Timing processing is being executed by the ms timer interrupt routine
(1).

Further, the main body 100 and the communication control means 900
In communication between the main body 100, data is processed in a format in which the main body 100 sends a command and the communication control means 900 responds.
If it is not sent to 00, the communication control means 900 cannot know the latest information of the main body 100. At this time, the abnormality of the main body 100 or the disconnection of the interface portion may be considered.

Therefore, when such a state abnormality is detected, the fact can be automatically reported as shown in FIG. 9 and recognized by the host computer 999 at the management base.

FIG. 9 is a flow chart showing an example of the third data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (5) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not a command has been transmitted from the main body 100 (1), and if YES, the process proceeds to step (5) to execute the received command and to execute the timer process shown in FIG. 10 described later. The timer 2 to be counted up is cleared, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (1) is NO, it is judged whether or not the timer count value of the timer 2 is, for example, 1 minute (2). If NO, the process is terminated,
If YES, it is determined whether or not a data abnormality has already been reported (3). If YES, the process is terminated, and if NO, it reports to the external management destination host computer 999 that a data transfer abnormality has occurred ( 4), the process ends.

It should be noted that the timer 2 is set to 10 as shown in FIG.
The timer processing routine of 0ms executes the clock processing (1).

Next, the paper jam information clear processing operation based on the data transfer state between the image forming apparatus main body 100 and the communication control means 900 will be described.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing an example of a first paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (5) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not the current body status information is reported from the main body 100 (1). If NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the current main body status is externalized in the communication control means 900. It is determined whether or not the condition for automatically transferring the management data is satisfied (2), the processing is ended if NO, and the management data is transferred to the external host computer 999 via the public line 908 if YES ( 3), it is determined whether or not the management data transfer is normally completed (4). If NO, the process is ended, and if YES, the paper jam information held in the RAM 903 or the like in the communication control means 900 is cleared ( 5), the process ends.

Also, the current state of the image forming apparatus such as the power ON / OFF state of the main body 100, whether or not the image can be formed, how many images are formed, and whether or not the image is being formed is always reported to the communication control means 900. The report is also made when a paper jam occurs and an abnormality occurs that makes it impossible to perform an image forming operation.

Further, the communication control means 900 has a predetermined transfer condition, for example, if it is set to report when an abnormality occurs, data is automatically transferred to the outside when the main body 100 reports an abnormality. And Here, the data to be transferred is common data including an image forming apparatus ID, a reason for transfer, a paper jam history, a detailed counter for each color and size, etc., regardless of the reason for the transfer. The image forming apparatus main body 100 is composed of a total number of image forming sheets at the time of occurrence and a paper jam code.
Every time there is a paper jam occurrence report from the communication control means 900, up to 30 pieces are held.

The transfer condition is set such that the above-mentioned abnormality occurs, paper jam occurs every set number of times, and paper jam of the same paper jam code occurs continuously. Below, Figure 1
The paper jam information clearing process during image formation will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of a second paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (4) indicate each step.

First, it is judged from the main body 100 whether a paper jam has been reported during the image forming operation (1),
If NO, the process is ended, and if YES, it is determined whether or not the paper jam of the set number of times of the transfer condition described above occurs or the data transfer such as the paper jam occurrence condition of the same paper jam code is met (2), NO. If so, the process is terminated, and if YES, the common data is transferred to the external host computer 999 via the public line 908 (3), and after the data transfer is executed, the paper jam information held in the communication control means 900 is displayed. Clear (4) and end the process.

The transfer conditions are the above-described abnormality occurrence, continuous paper jam of the same paper jam code every time the paper jam occurs a set number of times, or when there is a request from the outside. In the case where the above-mentioned common data is transferred at the judgment of the communication control means 900, it can be set so as to be transferred to any management base A in advance among a plurality of management bases. It is possible to clear the paper jam information in the communication control means 900 and to create the paper jam history of this image forming apparatus at the defined management site A after the transfer is completed. When the paper jam information in the communication control means 900 is cleared after completion of the transfer due to a request from the outside, if this request is made from another external management base B, the management base A In the above situation, it becomes impossible to create a paper jam history.

Therefore, as shown in FIG. 13, when data is transferred from the communication control means 900, the paper jam information clear processing in the communication control means 900 is controlled on the basis of the data transfer request subject, so that the present embodiment is realized. Then, it becomes possible to manage the paper jam history at the specific management base A.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (4) indicate each step.

First, it is judged from the communication control means 900 whether or not to perform data transfer (1), if NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the data transfer is executed (2). Determine whether the transfer is due to a data transfer request from an external management site (3), YES
If so, the process is ended, and if NO, if the transfer is judged by (other communication control device), the paper jam history is cleared after the data transfer (4), and the process is ended.

Incidentally, it may be so arranged that it is possible to select whether or not to clear the paper jam information in the communication control means 900 when a data transfer request is made from the outside.

When the CPU 801 determines that a paper jam has occurred during the operation of the image forming apparatus main body 100, the generated paper jam code, the time of occurrence, the current total number of sheets of image formation, etc. are displayed via the interfaces 805 and 907. The paper jam information is transferred to the RAM 903 of the communication control unit.
These pieces of paper jam information are held in the RAM 903.

Then, the CPU 901 makes a transfer condition judgment based on a predetermined transfer condition, and when it is judged that a report should be made, the modem 905, NCU 9
It is transferred to the external host computer 999 via 06. At this time, the data to be transferred is the ID of the image forming apparatus,
It is composed of the reason for transfer, paper jam information, the number of detailed images formed by color, size, etc.

Therefore, the same paper jam history information may be managed and the external host computer 999 may manage the paper jam information of the main body 100.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing an example of a first paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not a paper jam has been detected during image formation by the main body 100 (1). If NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the transmission data holding unit is notified of the paper jam. Corresponding paper jam code,
Paper jam information such as the time of occurrence and the total number of image forming sheets at that time is transmitted and held in, for example, the RAM 903 (2).

Then, in the transfer condition judging section, it is judged whether or not a paper jam of the same paper jam code has occurred before (3). If NO, the processing is ended, and if YES, the number is counted, It is determined whether or not the number of times exceeds a predetermined number (4). If NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the communication control means 900 causes the modem 905, 905.
External host computer 999 via NCU 906
The paper jam information is transferred to (5). After the transfer is completed, the paper jam information having the paper jam code that matches the current condition is cleared from the paper jam information held in the RAM 903 (6), and the processing is ended.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing an example of a second paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not a paper jam has been detected during the image formation by the main body 100 (1). If NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the transmission data holding unit detects the paper jam. Corresponding paper jam code,
Paper jam information such as the time of occurrence and the total number of image forming sheets at that time is transmitted and held in, for example, the RAM 903 (2). Then, the transfer condition determination unit determines whether or not a paper jam of the same paper jam code has occurred before (3). If NO, the process is ended, and if YES, the total number of image forming sheets at this time. And the total number of image forming sheets when a paper jam of the same code occurred last time, and it is determined whether or not the value is less than or equal to a predetermined number (4). If NO, the process ends. Y
If it is ES, the communication control means 900 is the modem 905, NCU.
The paper jam information is transferred to the external host computer 999 via 906 (5). And after the transfer is completed,
Of the paper jam information held in the RAM 903, the paper jam information having the paper jam code that matches the transfer condition this time is cleared except the latest information (6),
The process ends.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a third paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (6) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not a paper jam has been detected during image formation by the main body 100 (1). If NO, the process is terminated, and if YES, the transmission data holding unit is notified of the paper jam. Corresponding paper jam code,
Paper jam information such as the time of occurrence and the total number of image forming sheets at that time is transmitted and held in, for example, the RAM 903 (2).

Then, in the transfer condition judging section, it is judged whether or not a paper jam of the same paper jam code has occurred before (3). If NO, the processing is ended, and if YES, the time at the time of this occurrence. And the time when the paper jam of the same code occurred last time, and it is determined whether the value is less than or equal to a predetermined time (4), and NO.
If so, the process ends, and if YES, communication control means 900.
Transfers the paper jam information to the external host computer 999 via the modem 905 and NCU 906 (5).

After the transfer is completed, of the paper jam information held in the RAM 903, among the paper jam information having the paper jam code that matches the current transfer condition,
The information other than the latest information is cleared (6), and the process ends.

In the above embodiment, the host computer 999 at the external management base communicates with the main body 100,
The host computer 999 collectively includes various main bodies 100.
I explained the case of monitoring and managing the operating state of, but the information corresponding to the external management base corresponding to each management type,
For example, the transfer may be performed as shown in FIG.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram for explaining the communication control configuration of the image forming apparatus showing another embodiment of the present invention. The same parts as those in FIG. 1 are designated by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numerals 999A to 999C are host computers provided in the respective management bases 1 to 3, and the host computer 999A is provided mainly in an area relatively close to the main body 100 and is used for image formation such as occurrence of abnormality or frequent occurrence of jam. When a failure related to the function occurs, the operating state of the main body is monitored and managed, and in case of a trouble of the main body 100, a dispatch of a service person or the like is urged.

The host computer 999B mainly manages the number of copies in the main body 100, calculates the copy fee, manages the balance of money, and prompts the issuance of a bill or the like. Further, the host computer 999C mainly uses the main body 1 based on the detailed information (various sensor output information) transferred from the main body 100.
Maintenance management such as failure diagnosis and failure prediction of 00 is comprehensively managed, and a reminder is issued as to when to replace the main parts of the main body 100.

In the present embodiment, the description has been given of the case where the management bases are arranged in three places for each functional processing, but the number of management bases is not limited to three, and the host computer is not limited to three. The system may be constructed so that the functional processing of each host computer is performed on behalf of each other due to system downtime, or the functional processing of each host computer is transferred. Further, the number of host computers at each management site is not limited to one.

In the image forming apparatus constructed as described above, the second control means (communication control means 900) and the first control means are operated during the image forming sequence by the image forming means (main body 100).
At the time of data transfer with the control means (control means 800), the detection means (CP) in a state in which each information is transferred and held in the data holding means (RAM 903) from the first control means.
U901) detects the transfer condition for each piece of information, the second control means determines whether each of the external devices (host computers 999A to 999C) is based on the transfer condition establishment state for each piece of information detected by the detecting means. By controlling the selective transfer of information, it becomes possible for each external device to independently and efficiently manage each information transferred from a number of image forming means. The basic data communication processing operation will be described below.

The control means 800 of the main body 100 controls the image forming operation and communicates with the communication control means 900 according to a prescribed protocol. The communication content is the control means 80.
These are various states of 0 and various counter values. The CPU 901 in the communication control means 900 constantly checks the communication content from the control means 800 and determines whether or not it should be transmitted to the host. When it is determined that the data is to be transferred to the host, the optimum one is selected from the plurality of management bases 1 to 3 registered in the memory 903, and the data transfer is started.

FIG. 18 is a chart for explaining the system operation in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

When an event such as an abnormality occurrence or a copy counter increment occurs, the main body 100 notifies the communication control means 900 of that fact as a command. The communication control means 900 interprets the command and grasps the status of the main body 100. Then, it is determined to which management base the data should be transferred, and the data transfer is started after the calling / security check.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a program task structure for explaining the system operation in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

As shown in this figure, the software of the main body 100 is divided into a plurality of tasks according to their functions, and simultaneously performs their assigned operations under the control of the real-time monitor. There are tasks and motor control tasks. Communication with the communication control unit 900 is also realized by a communication task which is one such task. As described above, the management bases are distributed for each functional process, and are arranged at three positions in the present embodiment. The management base 1 manages the functional failure of the image forming apparatus and the management base 2 manages the number of copies. The management base 3 is in charge of managing the state of the image forming apparatus.

FIG. 20 is a flow chart showing an example of a detailed procedure of the communication task shown in FIG. In addition,
(1) to (9) show each step.

First, the main body 100 constantly monitors the outputs of various sensors during the image forming operation to determine whether or not an abnormality has occurred (1). If YES, the process proceeds to step (7) to that effect. The commands shown are individually created, and the process proceeds to step (6).

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (1) is NO, it is judged whether or not a jam (paper jam, etc.) has occurred by the output of the conveyance state monitoring sensor (2). Then, the command indicating that is created individually, and the process proceeds to step (6).

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (2) is NO, it is judged whether or not the number of copies has changed (3), and Y
If it is ES, the process proceeds to step (9), a command to that effect is individually created, and the process proceeds to step (6).

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (3) is NO, the values of various sensors arranged at predetermined positions in the main body 100 are acquired (4) and the commands corresponding to them are individually prepared. (5), it transmits to the communication control means 900 by serial communication (for example, RS232C) (6).

FIG. 21 shows the communication control means 9 shown in FIG.
10 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation of 00. Note that (1) to (4) indicate each step.

When the communication control means 900 receives a command from the main body 100 (1), it analyzes the received command and determines whether or not it should be transmitted to the host (2).
If it is O, the process returns to step (1) to wait for the next command reception.

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (2) is YES, the judgment is made based on the command for transmitting the management base to be transmitted (3), and the telephone numbers are called to the corresponding management bases 1 to 3. After the security check, the data is transferred (4), and the process returns to step (1) to wait for the next command reception. [Data Transfer to First Management Site] When a failure related to the image forming function such as an error occurrence or a frequent occurrence of jam occurs in the main body 100, the detected error information is imaged by the transfer management site destination determination process. Base 1 for managing the formation dysfunction (installed in a region relatively close to main body 100), that is, host computer 999A
To send to.

As a result, it is possible to flexibly follow the trouble such as dispatch of a service person for the trouble of the main body 100. [Data transfer to second management site] Main unit 100
Has various copy counters internally.
When it is detected that they have been updated and, for example, the number of copies exceeds a prescribed value, the detected copy number information is transferred to the management site 2 of the number of copies in the transfer management site destination determination processing, that is, the host computer 999B. To send to. Then, the host computer 999B executes a necessary business process based on the copy number information.

As a result, periodic visits to each user are unnecessary. [Data transfer to the third management site]
In the main body 100, when various sensor values, image forming control timings, and the like deviate from the normal operation range,
The detected detailed information is transmitted to the management site 3 of the number of copies, that is, the host computer 999C in the transfer management site destination determination process. Host computer 999
Based on the detailed information transferred from each main body 100, C makes a complicated judgment such as failure diagnosis and failure prediction of each main body.

Thus, the host computer 999C
Makes it possible to monitor image forming apparatuses installed in a wide range of areas, and to perform high-level and comprehensive management of the failure occurrence rate of each part depending on the model.

[0127]

As described above, according to the present invention,
It is determined whether the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is a request from the external device, and according to the determination result,
Since the process of clearing the abnormal information stored and stored is controlled, it is possible to prevent the necessary abnormal information from being lost.

For example, since the abnormality information is cleared after the transfer of the abnormality information by a request from the outside is completed and this request is made from the management base B, the abnormality information history is created at the management base A. To prevent being unable to do so.

[0129]

[0130]

[0131]

[0132]

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus main body illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a control unit and a communication control unit shown in FIG.

5 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit arranged on the upper surface of the main body shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt routine in the second data transfer process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data transfer processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a timer interrupt routine in a third data transfer process in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a first paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third paper jam information clear processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing an example of a third paper jam history information transfer procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a block diagram illustrating a communication control configuration of an image forming apparatus according to another embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 18 is a chart illustrating a system operation in the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG.

19 is a diagram showing a program task structure for explaining a system operation in the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.

20 is a flowchart showing an example of detailed procedures of the communication task shown in FIG.

21 is a flowchart showing an example of a control operation of the communication control means shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

100 Image forming apparatus main body 800 control means 900 communication control means 901 CPU 903 RAM 999 host computer

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Claims (12)

(57) [Claims] 1. A first control unit for controlling an image forming sequence of an image forming unit, a second control unit for controlling data transfer between the first control unit and an external device, and the first control unit. a data holding means for holding storing paper jam information transferred to said second control means from the control means, the transfer of paper jam information to the external device, the external device
Determining means for determining whether or not the data holding means is in accordance with the determination by the determining means.
Controls clearing of paper jam information stored and stored in
An image forming apparatus, comprising: 2. A communication control device for transferring abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external device, wherein the data holding means holds and stores the abnormality information acquired from the image forming apparatus, and the data holding means. Communication control means for transferring abnormality information stored and stored in an external device to an external device; determination means for determining whether or not the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is due to a request from the external device; And a clear processing control means for controlling the clear processing of the abnormality information held and stored in the data holding means according to the determination by the means. 3. The clear processing control means does not clear the abnormality information if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is a request from the external device. Communication control device. 4. The clear processing control means clears the abnormality information if transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on a request from the external device. Alternatively, the communication control device according to item 3. 5. An image forming apparatus for transferring abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external device, the data holding unit holding and storing the abnormality information, and the data holding unit being held and stored in the data holding unit. Communication control means for transferring abnormality information to an external device, determination means for determining whether or not the transfer of abnormality information to the external device is due to a request from the external device, and according to the determination by the determination means, An image forming apparatus, comprising: a clear processing control means for controlling a clear processing of abnormality information held and stored in the data holding means. 6. The clear processing control means does not clear the abnormal information if the transfer of the abnormal information to the external device is a request from the external device. Image forming device. 7. The clear processing control means clears the abnormality information if transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on a request from the external device. The image forming apparatus according to item 1. 8. An abnormality notification method for transmitting abnormality information relating to an abnormality that has occurred in an image forming apparatus to an external device, wherein the abnormality information stored and stored in a data storage unit that stores and stores the abnormality information is transmitted to an external device. A data transfer step of transferring, a determination step of determining whether or not the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is due to a request from the external device, and a data holding unit that holds the data according to the determination of the determination step. And a clearing process step of controlling a clearing process of stored abnormal information. 9. The method according to claim 8, wherein in the clear processing step, if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device is requested by the external device, the abnormality information is not cleared. Abnormality notification method. 10. The clearing step, if the transfer of the abnormality information to the external device does not depend on a request from the external device, the abnormality information is cleared. Abnormality notification method described. 11. The abnormal information is cleared in the clearing step if the abnormal information is transferred to the external device because a predetermined transfer condition is satisfied. Abnormality notification method described in. And 12. a predetermined transfer condition is when an error occurs, when a paper jam set number occurs, or, wherein the paper jam in the same paper jam code is when continuously generated according Item 11. The abnormality notification method according to Item 11.