JP3476319B2 - Facsimile system and communication system - Google Patents

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a facsimile system in which a facsimile machine or a digital multi-function peripheral having a facsimile communication function is connected to a host computer such as a personal computer so that data communication is possible, and a network is provided to the host computer of the facsimile system. The present invention relates to a communication system in which a plurality of terminal devices such as personal computers are connected so that data communication can be performed via the communication system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Most of recent personal computers are equipped with a modem as a standard at the time of purchase, and it is possible to easily use Internet communication, electronic mail communication, and FAX communication. However, a personal computer generally turns on when it is used and turns off when it is finished using it. For example, turn on the personal computer when you leave the office and turn it off when you leave the office.

[0003] Therefore, if you use a computer with a modem and a facsimile machine (FAX), there is a problem that can not receive it even if there is a FAX transmission from the other party when the power is down. For example, from overseas F
In the case of AX transmission, the reception side receives it just at night due to the time difference, and it was often impossible to receive it because the personal computer was turned off at night.

On the other hand, recently, a facsimile system in which a personal computer and a facsimile device are connected to each other is used, and document data created by word processing software on the personal computer is used.
A function of transmitting a facsimile as it is to a destination facsimile machine on a public line through a facsimile machine is often used. As the facsimile device, a general standalone facsimile device, a digital multi-function peripheral having a facsimile communication function, or the like is used.

Further, in the above-mentioned facsimile system, from the viewpoint of paperlessness, the facsimile reception data received by the facsimile device is transferred to the personal computer without being printed out by the facsimile device and referred to on the screen of the personal computer. The use of editing and processing as document data on a personal computer is also spreading.

In such a facsimile system, since the facsimile apparatus is energized for 24 hours, the facsimile apparatus always receives a facsimile even when the power source of the personal computer is turned off. As described above, it is possible to eliminate the inconvenience that the facsimile cannot be received because the power is not turned on.

[0007]

However, in the above-mentioned conventional facsimile system, when the facsimile device transfers the facsimile reception data to the personal computer,
Although it is handled like a normal memory transmission and a file is transmitted,
If the file cannot be transferred even after the retry transmission is repeated a predetermined number of times (for example, 5 times), the undelivered file is automatically deleted after 24 hours or 48 hours.

The time interval of the retry transmission is about several minutes and can be changed by BitSW or the like, but in most cases, it will be treated as undeliverable if the power supply of the personal computer is turned off at night, and the facsimile reception received with great care. There was a problem that data was lost.

Therefore, when the transmission is not successful even after the retry transmission is repeated a predetermined number of times, if the transfer to the personal computer is stopped and the facsimile device prints out, the contents of the facsimile reception data can be referred to on the recording paper. it can.

However, since the facsimile reception data that does not need to be printed is also printed, there is a problem that the recording paper is wasted, and even if it is desired to import it as document data into a personal computer and edit it, it is printed out. There is also a problem that it is very inconvenient because the contents have to be input by key input from the beginning or read and input by an image reading device.

The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and functions relating to facsimile reception of a facsimile system in which a facsimile machine or a digital multi-function peripheral having a facsimile function is connected to a host computer such as a personal computer so that data communication is possible. The purpose is to improve.

Next, in a facsimile system in which a facsimile machine or a digital multifunction machine having a facsimile function is connected to a host computer such as a personal computer so that data communication is possible, the host computer can use the facsimile machine or the digital multifunction machine as a printer apparatus. You cannot overlook the merit.

First, in the case of facsimile transmission from a personal computer to a destination on a public line through a facsimile device or a digital multi-function peripheral, document data is created using an appropriate application on the personal computer, and the destination of the destination facsimile device. By specifying the and starting the transmission process,
The destination is transferred together with the document data from the personal computer to the facsimile machine or the digital multi-function peripheral, and the facsimile machine or the digital multi-function peripheral transmits the document data by facsimile to the designated destination.

On the other hand, when a personal computer prints document data by a facsimile machine or a digital multi-function peripheral,
A value that is far from the FAX number of a destination that actually exists as the destination, or a FAX number that does not exist (for example, the destination "0000").
No.) is designated and the transmission process is started, the facsimile machine or the digital multi-function peripheral recognizes that it is a print output based on the destination "0000", and prints the document data received from the personal computer on the recording paper.

Further, the facsimile reception data of the facsimile apparatus is fetched into the personal computer by the above-mentioned processing,
It is also possible to print out with a facsimile machine after confirming on the screen of the personal computer.

However, in the above-mentioned facsimile system, when the image data of an original is read by a personal computer, a scanner device must be connected and a dedicated scanner application corresponding to the scanner device must be prepared.

Certainly, if a scanner device is connected and a dedicated scanner application is prepared and the image data is loaded into the personal computer by an interface (I / F) such as SCSI, the performance is improved,
There was a problem that it was very troublesome.

Therefore, the scanner function is used in the same manner as when a facsimile machine already connected to a personal computer or a digital multi-function peripheral having a facsimile communication function is used as a simple printer device for the personal computer other than the facsimile communication. The purpose is to be able to capture image data.

It is another object of the present invention to improve the function when a facsimile system in which a facsimile machine or a digital multifunction peripheral having a facsimile function is connected to a host computer such as a personal computer is used in a network environment.

[0020]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION According to the present invention, a facsimile apparatus for performing facsimile communication is connected to a host computer via a communication line, and facsimile transmission data and facsimile reception data are provided between the facsimile apparatus and the host computer. It relates to a facsimile system for exchanging information.

And, in order to achieve the above-mentioned purpose,
Means for executing retry transmission a predetermined number of times when the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication cannot be transmitted to the host computer due to some cause in the host computer when the facsimile reception data is transferred to the host computer; By the first time
A predetermined number of times when that could not be transmitted even by executing the retry transmission, the second time retry sending the pre-specified time real
Restart the line and execute retry transmission for the second specified number of times.
When it becomes possible to send it again, it will be sent a predetermined number of times
If the transmission is not possible even if you execute the license transmission, the transmission process ends
Providing a control unit for completion.

In addition, in the above facsimile device,
Facsimile received data by fax communication is
Host computer when transferring
Data could not be sent due to some reason
Means to execute retry transmission for the first specified number of times, and
When that could not be transmitted even by executing a predetermined number of retries sending one time by means, means for determining whether to print out the received facsimile data by the facsimile apparatus, the print output by the means
If so, the above facsimile machine
Reproduces the second retry transmission at the previously specified time when the facsimile reception data is printed out and it is judged not to be printed out by the above means.
Then, it is sent during the second retry transmission
Send when possible, then retry for the second specified number of times
Even if you execute
May be provided and the control means.

Furthermore, off of the facsimile data received by the facsimile communication from the host computer
Providing means for starting transmission to the above-mentioned host computer when a notification indicating the start of facsimile transmission is received .
Yes.

When the facsimile device cannot communicate with the host computer for some reason and collects facsimile received data by the facsimile communication, or when data communication can be resumed by recovery from error cancellation or the like. A means for selecting the transmission time interval or transmission priority of the accumulated facsimile reception data may be provided.

Further, the host computer is provided with means for designating specific destination information which means image reading to the facsimile machine, the original is set on the scanner section of the facsimile machine, and the specific information is specified by the host computer. When the destination information is specified, above
It is preferable to provide means for reading the image of the original by the scanner unit and transmitting the image data to the host computer.

Furthermore, when special destination information that means preset image reading to the host computer is input to the facsimile device, or on a dedicated screen for image reading to the host computer. It is preferable to provide means for reading the image of the document and transmitting the image data to the host computer when the document reading start is designated by.

A communication system in which a plurality of computers are connected to the host computer of the above-mentioned facsimile system via a network so as to be able to perform data communication, and each computer is connected to the facsimile machine via the host computer. A means for transmitting the identification information of the computer and the dedicated destination information indicating the image reading is provided, and the facsimile machine is provided with the identification information of the own computer of the computer and the dedicated destination information indicating the image reading from one of the computers. Also provided is a means for reading an image of an original document set in advance in the scanner section when receiving, and transmitting the image data to the computer corresponding to the identification information via the host computer.

According to the facsimile system of claim 1 of the present invention, when the facsimile reception data cannot be transmitted for some reason such as when the power of the host computer is not turned on, the first retry transmission is performed a predetermined number of times.
If the transmission is not successful even after executing the first retry transmission a predetermined number of times, the second retry transmission execution is restarted at a predetermined time, and the second predetermined retry transmission is performed.
B. If it becomes possible to send during the execution of sending, send it and then twice.
Can't send after retrying the specified number of times
Then, the transmission process ends . According to the facsimile system of claim 2, the first retry transmission is performed a predetermined number of times.
If it is not sent even if it is executed , you can select one of the processes to print out the received fax data, and if you decide to print out the fax,
The facsimile received data is printed out by the device.
So, resume execution of the second time retry sending the pre-designated time when it is determined that no print output, twice
It will be possible to send the data within the specified number of retry transmissions.
And then retry transmission a predetermined number of times.
Even if it cannot be transmitted, the transmission process ends . further,
According to the facsimile system of the third aspect, when the notification indicating the start of facsimile transmission from the host computer is received, the transmission can be started to the host computer.

Further, according to the facsimile system of claim 4 of the present invention, when the data communication with the host computer cannot be performed for some reason and the facsimile received data by the facsimile communication is accumulated, the data communication is performed by recovering the error or the like. When it is possible to restart, the transmission time interval or transmission priority of the accumulated facsimile reception data is selected, so that each facsimile reception data is transmitted at a time interval according to the usage environment of the host computer and the amount of facsimile reception data. It is possible to improve the convenience of the user because the user can send or send important things first.

Further, according to the facsimile system of claim 5 of the present invention, when the original is set on the scanner unit and the specific destination information which means image reading is designated from the host computer, the image of the original is read by the scanner unit. Since it reads and sends the image data to the host computer, a simple printer for the personal computer can be used from the host computer without using a scanner application software and a dedicated interface such as SCSI, etc. It is possible to easily take in image data in the same manner as when it is used as a device.

Furthermore, according to the facsimile system of claim 6 of the present invention, when special destination information that means preset image reading to the host computer is input, or image reading to the host computer is performed. When the original reading start is specified on the dedicated screen for scanning, the image of the original is read and the image data is transmitted to the host computer. Therefore, the FAX application software of the host computer can be used without any modification. Image data can be captured automatically.

According to the communication system of claim 7 of the present invention, in a communication system in which a plurality of computers are connected to a host computer of a facsimile system via a network so as to be able to perform data communication, the facsimile apparatus is a host computer from each computer. When the identification information of the computer itself and the dedicated address information that means image reading are received via the computer, the scanner unit is pre-set.
Since the image of the printed original is read and the image data is transmitted to the computer corresponding to the identification information via the host computer, each computer on the network can freely use the facsimile machine or the digital multi-function peripheral. , The function of the network environment can be improved.

[0033]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. First, before starting the description of the embodiments of the present invention, a personal computer FAX in which a personal computer is equipped with a FAX modem will be described. PC FA
X is to execute application software for using FAX communication on a personal computer to perform FAX transmission / reception.

If the personal computer FAX has FAX reception,
The FAX modem converts the analog data into digital data and passes it to a serial port such as a logical device COM1 port or COM2 port. The FAX application software also monitors the COM port and
3) Takes in control signals and compressed image data, returns a response to the control signals, and writes image data in the memory.
On the other hand, in the FAX transmission by the personal computer FAX, the flow opposite to the above-described processing is executed, and the image data is transmitted to the FAX of the other party via the modem via the COM port.

The personal computer FAX also has a direct transmission / direct reception function and a memory transmission / memory reception function, and a mode called Class-1 in which the G3 protocol control is performed on the application software side, and a FA
There is a mode called Class-2 which entrusts the firmware incorporated in the card side of the X-modem.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a communication system including a facsimile system according to an embodiment of the present invention. This communication system is a host computer of a facsimile system (hereinafter referred to as "personal computer") 2
A plurality of computers 5 are connected to each other via a network 4 so that data communication is possible.

In the facsimile system, a digital multi-function peripheral 1 which is a facsimile device having a function of performing facsimile communication via a communication line and a host computer 2 such as a personal computer are connected to each other through a connection interface (I / F) 3 such as RS232C. The digital multi-function peripheral 1 and the personal computer 2 are connected by data communication so that facsimile transmission data and facsimile reception data are exchanged.

The digital multi-function peripheral 1 has a built-in microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc., and has an engine 10, a FAX application section 11, and a printer application section 1.
2. Others, including an application unit 13, a page memory 14, etc., performs a facsimile communication function via a communication line such as a public line, and exchanges facsimile transmission / reception data with the personal computer 2.

The engine 10 controls the entire digital multi-function peripheral 1 and executes the processing for transferring the facsimile reception data according to the present invention to the personal computer 2.
It also has a DCR for compressing / decompressing image data. The FAX application section 11 is a PC F with the PC 2.
It has a DIU and a modem for controlling the AX.

The printer application unit 12 includes a printing unit such as a laser printer or an inkjet printer, and the image data is printed by the printing unit. The other application unit 13 includes a scanner and inputs image data by the scanner. The page memory 14 is a SAF memory that stores facsimile transmission / reception data.

On the other hand, the personal computer 2 has a built-in microcomputer including a CPU, a ROM, a RAM, etc.
It is an information processing apparatus including a display such as an RT or LCD, an input device such as a keyboard or a mouse, and a storage device such as a floppy disk device or a hard disk device, and can perform facsimile transmission / reception via the digital multi-function peripheral 1. The printing function and the scanner function of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be used.

Each computer 5 has a CPU, RO
An information processing apparatus which has a built-in microcomputer including M, RAM, and the like, and is provided with a display such as a CRT and an LCD, an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse, and a storage device such as a floppy disk device and a hard disk device. Data communication with other computers 5 including the personal computer 2 is possible via the network 4, and the printer function and the scanner function of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be used via the personal computer 2.

[0043] That is, the digital multifunction peripheral 1, when that could not be transmitted by the source of Nraka such at that computer 2 when transferring the facsimile received data by the facsimile communication to the PC (host computer) 2,
It fulfills the function of a means for inquiring at a fixed time interval until transmission becomes possible and then transmitting when transmission becomes possible.

In addition, when the facsimile reception data by facsimile communication is transmitted to the personal computer 2 and the personal computer 2 cannot transmit the data due to some cause, a means for executing a retry transmission a predetermined number of times,
When could not be sent even if <br/> executes a predetermined number of retries transmission of first time by that means, two in advance specified time
Resume execution of retry transmission for the second time, and repeat the specified number of times
Send when it becomes possible to send during retry sending
However, even if the retry transmission is executed the second time
If it does not come, it fulfills the function of control means for ending the transmission processing .

Further, a means for starting transmission of the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication to the personal computer 2 when a notification indicating the facsimile transmission start from the personal computer 2 is received, and the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication for the personal computer 2 for the first time. Send a retry count
When it is not transmitted even if is executed , the means for determining whether or not the facsimile reception data is printed out by the facsimile device, and the means for printing out by the means .
If it is determined that the fax machine
The Shimiri received data is printed out, the second time to the pre-designated time when it is determined that no print output
To resume the execution of the retry transmission, the second time of a predetermined number of times Rito
If it becomes possible during the transmission of the license, send it and then
Is it possible to send the data after executing the retry transmission a predetermined number of times?
It also functions as a control means for ending the transmission process .

In addition, when the digital multi-function peripheral 1 cannot communicate with the personal computer 2 for some reason and collects facsimile reception data by facsimile communication, when data communication can be resumed by recovery such as error cancellation. Transmission of accumulated facsimile reception data
It also serves as a means for selecting a time interval or transmission priority.

Further, the personal computer 2 has a function of means for designating specific destination information which means image reading to the digital multi-function peripheral 1. And digital multi-function peripheral 1
Performs a function of setting an original on the scanner unit , reading the image of the original document by the scanner unit when the specific destination information is designated by the personal computer 2, and transmitting the image data to the personal computer 2. .

In addition, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is a manuscript when a special destination information, which means the image reading to the personal computer 2 which is set in advance, is input, or the original is displayed on the screen dedicated to the image reading to the personal computer 2. When the reading start is designated, it functions as a means for reading the image of the document and transmitting the image data to the personal computer 2.

Further, each computer 5 is a personal computer 2
It has means for transmitting the identification information of its own computer and the dedicated destination information which means image reading to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 via the.

When the digital multi-function peripheral 1 receives from one of the computers 5 the identification information of its own computer of the computer 5 and the dedicated destination information that means image reading, the original document set in the scanner unit in advance . It functions as a means for reading an image and transmitting the image data to the computer 5 corresponding to the identification information via the personal computer 2.

This facsimile system has a personal computer 2
Instead of mounting a modem card on the PC, use a modem mounted on the digital multi-function peripheral 1 having a facsimile communication function, extend the COM port of the personal computer 2 with a connection I / F, and send / receive data to / from the modem. I am able to do it.

Therefore, the basic data flow is the same as that of the personal computer FAX, and the F that operates on the personal computer 2
The same AX application software can be used. Further, the above Class-1
Also, the basic operations and functions of Class-2, direct facsimile transmission, direct facsimile reception, facsimile memory transmission, and facsimile memory reception are the same.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow at the time of direct transmission in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow at the direct reception in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, and FIG. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow at the time of memory transmission in the multi-function peripheral 1, and FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow at the memory reception in the digital multi-function peripheral 1.

The DIU 20 of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 in the figure is
In addition to transmitting and receiving data to and from the serial port of the personal computer 2, it has a protocol control (G3) portion of the personal computer FAX, a modem and a buffer for handshaking image data from the modem. The DCR 21 compresses / decompresses image data.

The SAF memory 22 is a page memory for temporarily storing facsimile transmission data and facsimile reception data. The modem (MODEM) 23 has a modulation and demodulation function, and performs modulation of facsimile transmission data and demodulation of facsimile reception data on a communication line.

As shown in FIG. 2, in the direct transmission, when the DIU 20 receives the data from the personal computer 2, the modem 23 directly transmits the data directly to the other party through the communication line. Figure 3
In the direct reception, the data received from the communication line by the modem 23 is transmitted to the personal computer 2 by the DIU 20, as shown in FIG.
Further, the data received by the modem 23 can be expanded by the DCR 21 and printed.

On the other hand, as shown in FIG.
When the DIU 20 receives data from the personal computer 2, DC
The data is expanded at R21 and stored in the SAF memory (page memory) 22. Then, the data is read from the SAF memory 22, compressed by the DCR 21, and transmitted by the modem 23 to the other party via the communication line.

As shown in FIG. 5, in the memory reception, the data received from the communication line by the modem 23 is expanded by the DCR 21 and stored in the SAF memory (page memory) 22. Then, the data is read from the SAF memory 22 and DCR is performed.
The data is compressed at 21 and transmitted to the other party via the communication line at DIU 20. In addition, the data received by the modem 23 is DCR
It is also possible to extend and print at 21.

Next, a facsimile reception process in the digital multi-function peripheral 1 of this communication system will be described.
The facsimile reception data received from the FAX of the other party is received by the digital multi-function peripheral 1 and stored in the SAF memory 22. Then, after the reception is completed, the connection I is made from the digital multi function peripheral 1.
Transfer to PC via / F3.

At the time of the transfer, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 has the power of the personal computer 2 turned off, or the F on the personal computer 2
If the AX application software is not started or if some error such as memory exhaustion occurs on the PC 2 side, there is no response from the PC 2 side, error notification or refusal notification is received and retry transmission is sent. Will be done.

A plurality of types of retry transmission methods are incorporated in advance in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, and the user can select one of them. Although all the methods are incorporated here, it is preferable that each method is incorporated alone or a plurality of methods are provided in combination according to the needs of the user.

First, when retry transmission is repeated, the transmission time interval of the retry is the most important. Therefore, the digital multifunction peripheral 1, when transferring the facsimile received data by the facsimile communication to the PC 2, when that could not be transmitted by the source of Nraka such at that computer 2,
Inquires at fixed time intervals until transmission becomes possible, and then transmits when transmission becomes possible. With this retry transmission method,
It is suitable when the PC 2 is temporarily unable to receive.

Further, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 6, when the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication is transferred to the personal computer 2 and the personal computer 2 cannot transmit the data for some reason, the first predetermined time is determined. when that could not be transmitted even by executing the number of retries transmission, running to second time of a predetermined number of retries sending resumes execution <br/> second time retry sending the pre-specified time, the two
When the transmission is enabled by the second predetermined number of times of retry transmission, the transmission is performed, and when the second predetermined number of times of retry transmission is not performed, the transmission processing is ended.

For example, the power supply of the personal computer 2 is turned off at night.
If it is set to OFF, the OFF state extends for many hours, so there is no point in repeating retry transmission every few minutes. Therefore, in this retry transmission, the retry transmission is repeated two or three times, and if the result is NG, the current time is checked, and the retry transmission is restarted at the preset time. That is, 2,
If the retry transmission is performed three times and the transmission is impossible, the time designation information is automatically added to the corresponding file so that the retry transmission is performed several hours later. This retry transmission method is suitable when a file of facsimile reception data received at night is transferred after the company starts the next morning.

Furthermore, another retry transmission method is shown in FIG.
As shown in the flowchart of FIG. 5, when the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication is not transmitted even after the first retry transmission is executed to the personal computer 2, the facsimile reception data is printed out. Also, the pre
If the output is not performed , the specified
The execution of a number of retries transmission.

In this retry transmission method, the retry transmission is repeated at a constant time interval, after a predetermined number of repetitions, the transfer to the personal computer is abandoned and the digital multi-function peripheral 1 prints out or automatically after several hours. If the retry transmission is repeated, the power of the personal computer 2 remains off for many days due to a long vacation or a business trip, and it is suitable when it is desired to avoid the SAF memory 22 of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 from running out of memory.

Furthermore, in another retry transmission method, as shown in the flowchart of FIG. 8, the facsimile reception data by facsimile communication is sent from the personal computer 2 by a predetermined notification (G3 protocol control of facsimile communication is applied).
Class-1 on the application software side
Called mode, built into the fax modem card
Called Class-2, which leaves it to the existing firmware
(Notification of the mode to be sent) , the transmission is started to the personal computer 2.

In this retry transmission method, when the personal computer 2 is powered on and the personal computer FAX application software is activated, a notification of the mode of Class-1 or Class-2 is sent through the connection I / F 3 to the digital multi-function peripheral. 1 to notify.

On the other hand, when the digital multi-function peripheral 1 cannot transmit to the personal computer 2, if the retry transmission cannot be performed a predetermined number of times, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 waits for the transmission, and the Cl from the personal computer 2 is transmitted.
Wait for notification of the mode of ass-1 or class-2. Then, when the notification is received, information is added to the file of the facsimile reception data to restart the retry transmission, and the retry transmission is restarted.

Then, the above-described retry transmission method and setting as to whether or not to print out after a predetermined number of retries have been made possible can be designated by the memory SW (BitSW), and the optimum setting can be made according to the use environment and the type of application software. Allows you to set retry conditions.

In this way, by connecting the digital multi-function peripheral 1 to the personal computer 2 and using it as a personal computer FAX, the facsimile reception data is displayed on the personal computer 2 without being printed out immediately and the contents thereof are displayed. After checking, it can be printed out if necessary. With this, paperless can be realized easily, which is a great advantage for the user.

Further, various retry transmission methods can be selectively executed for the facsimile reception data received when the power supply of the personal computer 2 side is turned off.
It can be changed according to the usage environment and user requirements, and an efficient personal computer FAX can be realized. According to
According to the usage environment of the host computer and user requests.
It is possible to output various received facsimile data.

Next, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will continue to accumulate files of facsimile reception data even when the file received by FAX is transferred to the personal computer 2, such as when the personal computer 2 is powered off. Immediately after the personal computer 2 is powered on and the FAX application software is started and data can be transferred, when data is transferred from the digital multi-function peripheral 1 to the personal computer 2 all at once, the personal computer 2 wants to send a FAX. Will have to wait for a long time.

On the digital multi-function peripheral 1 side, while the data is being transferred to the personal computer 2 in the background, the original F
When processing such as AX transmission and document image storage is performed, the SAF memory 22 is accessed in any case. Therefore, due to the multiple access restriction of the SAF memory 22,
If the files of the facsimile reception data accumulated in the SAF memory 22 are continuously transferred to the personal computer 2, other processing is stopped and it becomes difficult for the user to use.

Further, for example, in the case of coming to the office in the morning and wanting to see all the FAX reception files accumulated in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, the waiting time becomes long unless they are continuously transferred to the personal computer 2, and a response to the reception file is received. Becomes slower and harder for users to use.

Therefore, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is provided with a transfer mode switch SW, and the facsimile reception data file stored in the SAF memory 22 is stored in the personal computer 2.
To all at once, a mode in which the transfer time interval is set at regular intervals, a mode in which the transfer is started when the specified time is reached by specifying the time, and a mode in which the priority of the transfer order of each file is selected The user and the user can set them in advance as desired.

The digital multi-function peripheral 1 is set when data communication with the personal computer 2 becomes impossible for some reason and facsimile reception data is accumulated by facsimile communication, and when data communication can be resumed by recovery such as error cancellation. The transmission time interval or transmission priority of the facsimile reception data accumulated in the SAF memory 22 is transferred according to the set value according to the set mode.

In addition to the above setting, the remaining memory capacity may be referred to and the mode may be temporarily changed depending on whether many files are stored or not. In this way, when the power of the personal computer 2 is turned off for a long time, and a large number of files of facsimile reception data are accumulated in the digital multi-function peripheral 1, the method of transferring to the personal computer 2 at once and the method of transferring at a time interval are provided. The method of prioritizing the transfer can be set according to the usage environment and the amount of received data at that time, and the convenience of the user can be improved.

Next, the processing when the personal computer 2 uses the scanner function of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described. In this process, the personal computer 2 designates specific destination information, which means image reading, to the digital multi-function peripheral 1. On the other hand, when the personal computer 2 specifies the specific destination information, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 reads the image of the document and transmits the image data to the personal computer 2.

Further description will be made. A document is set in advance on the scanner unit of the digital multi-function peripheral 1, and specific destination information (for example, specific destination number “1111”) is designated to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 from the FAX application software on the personal computer 2 for normal personal computer FAX transmission. In the same way, start sending. The specific destination number in this case is registered in advance on the digital multi-function peripheral 1 side.

On the other hand, when the specific destination number is specified by the personal computer 2, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 determines that the request is not for FAX transmission but for operation of the scanner function. At this time, the FAX application software of the personal computer 2 sends some transmission document to the digital multi-function peripheral 1
Therefore, the facsimile transmission data of a blank document or a document having a simple content is created and is temporarily transmitted to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 as a transmission file.

If the digital multi-function peripheral 1 determines that the operation request for the scanner function is issued from the personal computer 2, the personal computer 2
Ignore the facsimile transmission data sent from the, confirm that the original is set on the scanner, read the image of the original, and use the image data in the same way as normal facsimile reception data transfer. Send to 2.

In this way, the personal computer 2 scans the digital multi-function peripheral 1 using the normal personal computer FAX operation without preparing a scanner application and a dedicated I / F hardware and driver on the personal computer 2. Can be used as

Next, the processing when the image data of the original is transferred to the personal computer 2 by the operation of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 side will be described.

This processing is performed by the digital multi-function peripheral 1 when a special destination information that means preset image reading to the personal computer 2 is input, or on a dedicated screen for reading the image to the personal computer 2. When the document reading start is designated by, the image of the document is read and the image data is transmitted to the personal computer 2.

That is, when the dedicated FAX number of the special destination information, which means the scanner reading, is input from the FAX application software on the personal computer 2, the transmission start is simulated and the image of the original is read by the scanner unit. , And transfer the image data to the personal computer 2.

This processing is similar to the processing when transmitting data from the digital multi-function peripheral 1 to the memory, but a dedicated FAX number indicating image reading is designated as the destination, and it is as if there is a FAX reception internally. The facsimile reception data is transferred to the personal computer 2.

Further, a dedicated start-up screen for reading the image of the digital multi-function peripheral 1 is prepared, and when the start of reading the original is designated on the screen, the image of the original is read by the scanner unit and the image data thereof is received by FAX. The received facsimile data is sent to the personal computer 2 in the same manner as when it is transferred.

In this way, when a predetermined dedicated destination is designated from the digital multi-function peripheral 1 or an image reading start instruction from a dedicated screen is designated, the image of the original set on the scanner section is automatically displayed. Since the image data is read out and transferred to the personal computer 2, the digital multi-function peripheral 1 can be easily used as a scanner without modifying the FAX application software on the personal computer 2 side.

Next, processing when each computer 5 of this communication system shares the digital multi-function peripheral 1 will be described. This communication system is a development of a facsimile system composed of a digital multi-function peripheral 1 and a personal computer 2, and the personal computer 2 is connected to a plurality of computers 5 via a network 4 so as to be capable of data communication. And
Each computer 5 can position the personal computer 2 as a FAX server or a scanner server and share the digital multi-function peripheral 1 with the network 4.

This processing is performed by any computer 5
When the personal computer transmits the identification information of its own computer and the dedicated destination information indicating image reading to the digital multifunctional device 1 through the personal computer 2, the digital multifunctional device 1 reads the identification information of its own computer and the image reading of the computer 5. upon receiving a dedicated destination information meaning, in advance scanner unit
A computer 5 that reads the image of the set original and applies the image data to the identification information via the personal computer 2.
Send to.

First, each computer 5 on the network 4 is assigned a sub-address starting from "001". Therefore, for example, when the computer 5 having the sub-address “003” scans the digital multifunctional device 1, the above-described processing method when the personal computer 2 uses the scanner function of the digital multifunctional device 1 is modified. Data is generated by adding a subaddress "003" of its own device with a symbol "/" sandwiched after a specific dedicated destination number "1111" used when using as a scanner.

Then, the data "1111/003"
Is designated to transmit the document data to the personal computer 2 in a pseudo manner by the personal computer FAX. The document data to be transmitted at that time is appropriate blank data or data with simple document contents. When the personal computer 2 receives them, it sends them to the digital multi-function peripheral 1 via the connection I / F 3.

On the other hand, when the digital multi-function peripheral 1 receives the above data through the personal computer 2 and recognizes "1111", it ignores the document data, reads the image of the document set in the scanner unit in advance, and reads the image data. Is input, the sub-address “003” is referred to, it is set as CSI information, and it is notified to the personal computer 2 together with the image data input from the scanner section.

The CSI information is destination information registered in the destination when communicating with another facsimile apparatus in G3, and indicates whether or not the facsimile transmission is correctly connected to the destination. Is information notified from the other party in the process of negotiating with the other party using the G3 protocol. Actually, it is a 20-digit half-width data string in which numbers and some symbols are allowed. And, in general, the own station number of the facsimile is used.

The FAX application software on the personal computer 2 is stored in the storage area for saving the received data.
The CSI information and the image data are associated and held.
Then, the computer 5 of the sub address “003”
The storage area of the personal computer 2 is accessed via the network 4 and the CSI corresponding to the sub address "003" is accessed.
The information is referred to and the image data stored in association with the CSI information is acquired.

If the FAX application software on the personal computer 2 is partially modified, a directory for each sub-address of each computer 5 is prepared in advance, CSI information is assigned to each directory, and image data is stored in each directory for each CSI information. If you write it in
Image data can be easily managed for each computer 5.

In this way, each computer on the network can share the digital multi-function peripheral as a scanner through the personal computer by adding the sub-address of each computer on the network together with the dedicated destination number which means reading by the scanner. You can

In the above facsimile system,
Although the case where the digital multi-function peripheral having the facsimile communication function is used has been described, the functions related to the present invention can be similarly realized even when the facsimile apparatus is connected.

[0100]

As described above, according to the facsimile system of the present invention, the function related to the facsimile reception of the facsimile machine connected to the host computer such as a personal computer or the like or the digital multi-function peripheral having the facsimile function. Can be improved.

In addition, a facsimile device connected to a personal computer or a digital multi-function peripheral having a facsimile communication function is used as an image printer using a scanner function in the same manner as when it is used as a simple printer device of a personal computer other than facsimile communication. It can also be made possible to import data.

Further, when a facsimile system in which a facsimile machine or a digital multifunction machine having a facsimile function is connected to a host computer such as a personal computer is used in a network environment, each computer on the network can freely operate the facsimile machine or the digital multifunction machine. It can be used to improve the function of the network environment.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a communication system including a facsimile system according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow during direct transmission in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow at the time of direct reception in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

4 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow during memory transmission in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

5 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow when a memory is received in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

6 is a flowchart showing processing of a retry transmission method in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

7 is a flowchart showing a process of another retry transmission method in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

8 is a flowchart showing processing of still another retry transmission method in the digital multi-function peripheral shown in FIG.

[Explanation of symbols]

1: Digital multifunction device 2: Host computer (personal computer) 3: Connection I / F 4: Network 5: Computer 10: Engine 11: FAX application section 12: Printer application section 13: Other application section 14: Page memory 20: DIU 21: DCR 22: SAF memory 23: Modem

Claims (7)

(57) [Claims] 1. A facsimile system in which a facsimile device for performing facsimile communication via a communication line is connected to a host computer, and facsimile transmission data and facsimile reception data are exchanged between the facsimile device and the host computer. A means for executing retry transmission a predetermined number of times when the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication cannot be transmitted to the host computer for some reason when the data is transferred to the host computer, and the means. When the transmission is not successful even after performing the retry transmission for the specified number of times, the execution of the retry transmission for the second time is restarted at the time specified in advance , and the retry for the predetermined number of times is performed for the second time. Out of sending
When it is possible to send to
(A) A facsimile system comprising: a control means for ending the transmission process if the transmission is not successful even if the transmission is executed . 2. Facsimile communication is performed through a communication line.
Connect the facsimile machine and host computer
The facsimile machine and the host computer
Facsimile transmission data and facsimile reception data between
In a facsimile system for exchanging data, the facsimile communication is performed with the facsimile device.
Transfer the received fax data to the host computer.
Some cause in the host computer when sending
If the message could not be sent due to
Means for executing a line transmission, and the facsimile reception data is transmitted to the facsimile device when the transmission is not successful even after the first time retry transmission is executed by the means.
Means for determining whether or not to print output by location,
If you decide to print out by this means
The data received by the facsimile machine
Is printed out, said means by resumes execution of the advance of the second time at a specified time <br/> retry transmission when a decision is made not to print output, the second time a predetermined number of retries
B. If it becomes possible to send during the sending, send it and then
Can't send after retrying the specified number of times
A facsimile system comprising: control means for terminating transmission processing . 3. The facsimile system according to claim 1, further comprising means for starting transmission of the facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication to the host computer when a notification indicating the start of facsimile transmission from the host computer is received. Facsimile system characterized by 4. The facsimile system according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the facsimile apparatus is unable to perform data communication with the host computer due to some reason and collects facsimile reception data by the facsimile communication. In this case, the facsimile system is provided with means for selecting a transmission time interval or transmission priority of the accumulated facsimile reception data when the data communication can be resumed by recovery such as error cancellation. 5. The facsimile system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the host computer is provided with means for designating specific destination information indicating image reading to the facsimile apparatus, The apparatus is provided with means for setting an original on the scanner section, reading the image of the original by the scanner section when the specific destination information is designated by the host computer, and transmitting the image data to the host computer. Facsimile system characterized by. 6. The facsimile system according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein special destination information that means preset image reading to the host computer is input to the facsimile apparatus. At this time, or when a document reading start is designated on a dedicated screen for reading an image into the host computer, means for reading the image of the document and transmitting the image data to the host computer is provided. Facsimile system. 7. A communication system in which a plurality of computers are connected to a host computer of the facsimile system according to claim 5 via a network so as to be able to perform data communication, and each computer is connected to the facsimile device via the host computer. A means is provided for transmitting the identification information of the own computer and the dedicated destination information meaning the image reading, and the facsimile device is provided with the identification information of the own computer of the computer from the computer and the dedicated destination information meaning the image reading. And a means for reading the image of the document set in the scanner unit in advance and transmitting the image data to the computer corresponding to the identification information via the host computer. .