JP3673653B2 - Image forming apparatus, image forming apparatus management system, and own apparatus information transmission method - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus connected to a remote diagnosis management center via a communication line, and more specifically, an image having a function of converting own apparatus information indicating the state of the own apparatus into a predetermined code and transmitting the same. The present invention relates to a forming apparatus, an image forming apparatus management system, and a self-machine information transmission method.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  In recent years, there is an image forming apparatus management system in which an image forming apparatus and a management center are connected by a communication line and managed by a so-called centralized processing method. As image forming apparatuses managed in this way, for example, facsimile machines, copiers, printers, and the like are known.
[0003]
  Conventionally, in the image forming apparatus management system, information relating to the state of the apparatus itself (own apparatus information) is transmitted from the facsimile apparatus to the management center, and remote diagnosis is performed by which the management center detects the state of the facsimile apparatus based on this information. Yes.
[0004]
  The self-machine information includes, for example, processing information (count number) of the facsimile device and the number of jam occurrences, abnormality information for notifying abnormality occurring in the facsimile device, or supply information for notifying that consumables such as toner and paper are used up. There are notifications of parts replacement / cleaning / maintenance times according to the frequency of use, and alarm information that informs minor abnormalities that do not directly affect the operation of the device. In the facsimile machine managed by the image forming apparatus management system, such information is transmitted from the memory to the management center as image data in the same manner as a normal facsimile transmission.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  However, since the conventional facsimile apparatus generally transmits information stored in the memory first in preference to information stored later, for example, when abnormal information or supply information should be transmitted. If there is information already stored in the memory, the abnormality information and the supply information are transmitted to the management center after waiting for transmission of the previously stored information.
[0006]
  Therefore, the management center cannot detect that an abnormality has occurred in the facsimile machine during this period or that there is no consumable, and it cannot properly deal with repairs or supply of consumables. there were.
[0007]
  Also, the alarm information does not need to be sent to the management center in a hurry due to its nature. However, in the conventional facsimile apparatus, when alarm information is transmitted, other information that needs to be transmitted at an early stage after the alarm information cannot be transmitted without waiting for the alarm information transmission to end. It was.
[0008]
  The present invention has been made in view of the above, and prioritizes the own apparatus information according to the nature thereof, transmits the necessary information earlier, and has less influence on other communications. Is intended to provide.
[0009]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  In order to achieve the above object, an image forming apparatus according to claim 1 has an image forming function having a function of transmitting own image information indicating a state of the own device into a predetermined code and a function of transmitting the image information. A priority determining means for determining a priority order of the own device information including a priority order of the image information, and a priority order determined by the priority order determining means.The image information andTransmission means for transmitting the own device information.
[0010]
  Further, in the image forming apparatus according to claim 2, the priority order determination unit uses abnormality information indicating abnormality of the own apparatus and supply information indicating presence / absence of consumables as own apparatus information, and the abnormality information and the supply information are The priority order is determined so as to be transmitted with priority over other information.
[0011]
  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus, the priority order determining unit notifies the part replacement / cleaning / maintenance timing according to the frequency of use, and minor abnormality that does not directly affect the operation of the apparatus. The alarm information shown is the own machine information, the alarm information is transmitted at a designated time specified in advance, and the priority is set so that other information than the designated time is transmitted with priority over the alarm information. To decide.
[0012]
  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus, the transmitting unit transmits the own device information from a memory included in the image forming device, and the priority order determining unit is stored in the own device information and the memory. Priorities are determined with respect to other information.
[0013]
  In the image forming apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the priority order determination unit can change the priority order of the device information as necessary.
[0014]
  According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus according to claim 6 displays the non-delivery report by text or an image when the transmission unit fails to transmit the self-machine information a predetermined number of times. Is automatically output.
[0015]
  An image forming apparatus management system according to a seventh aspect of the present invention includes an image forming apparatus having a function of transmitting self-machine information indicating the status of the management center and the self-machine to a predetermined code and a function of transmitting image information. In the image forming apparatus management system connected via a communication circuit, the image forming apparatus includes priority order determining means for determining the priority order of the own device information including the priority order of the image information, and the priority order determination. According to the priority determined by the meansThe image information andTransmission means for transmitting the own device information.
[0016]
  According to another aspect of the present invention, there is provided a self-machine information transmission method from an image forming apparatus having a function of transmitting self-machine information indicating a state of the machine into a predetermined code and a function of transmitting image information. In the own apparatus information transmitting method for transmitting information to the outside, a priority order determining step for determining a priority order of the own apparatus information including a priority order of the image information, and a priority order determined in the priority order determining step. ThereforeThe image information andA transmission step of transmitting the own device information.
[0017]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
  Hereinafter, a case where the image forming apparatus of the present invention is applied to a facsimile apparatus will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0018]
  The facsimile apparatus according to the present embodiment has a function of converting information on its own state (self-machine information) such as the number of counters that performed copying or facsimile and the occurrence of an abnormality into the predetermined code and transmitting it. Then, the priority order of the own device information is determined, and the own device information is transmitted according to this priority order.
[0019]
  FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a digital facsimile machine that has both the functions of a copier and a facsimile machine as an image forming apparatus. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a system when the facsimile apparatus explained in FIG. 1 is managed by a centralized processing method. FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the first control unit and the facsimile control unit in FIG. 1 in more detail.
[0020]
  1 includes a first control unit 10 that mainly controls processing as a copier, and a facsimile control unit 20 (denoted as a FAX control unit in the figure) that controls processing as a facsimile machine. There are two control units. The own machine information is detected by the first control unit 10, processed by the facsimile control unit 20, and then transmitted to the management side.
[0021]
  The first control unit 10 includes a reading unit 11 that reads image information of a document to be copied or transmitted, a writing unit 13 that prints out the copied or received document, and an operation unit in which a copy or fax mode is input by the user. 15 is controlled.
[0022]
  On the other hand, the facsimile control unit 20 includes a SAF memory 25 in which information to be transmitted is stored, a G3 facsimile control unit 21 (indicated as a G3 FAX control unit in the figure) connected to the analog telephone service line via the NCU 23, and the like. The G4 facsimile control unit 22 (denoted as G4 FAX control unit in the figure) connected to the digital line is controlled.
[0023]
  The memory of the facsimile control unit 20 has a remote diagnosis information area (not shown). In this remote diagnosis information area, remote diagnosis information (to be described later) necessary for remote diagnosis is also stored.
[0024]
  As shown in FIG. 2, the first control unit 10 shown in FIG. 1 has a page memory 52 for storing information (original information) of a document read by the reading unit 11, and scales or rotates the document as necessary. The zooming / rotating unit 53 includes a first compression / decompression unit 54 that compresses or decompresses a document information signal by the first control unit 10, and a DPRAM 55.
[0025]
  Further, the first control unit 10 includes a first CPU 56 that performs arithmetic processing for controlling each of the above components, a first ROM 57 and a first RAM 58 that store information necessary for the arithmetic processing, and the first control unit 10. The first RTC 59 (real time clock) for measuring the processing time to be performed and measuring the control timing is provided.
[0026]
  On the other hand, the facsimile control unit 20 performs a second compression / expansion unit 75 that compresses or expands a document information signal input from the first control unit 10 through the DPRAM 55, and arithmetic processing for controlling processing as a facsimile machine. It has a second CPU 71, a second ROM 72 and a second RAM 73 in which information necessary for this arithmetic processing is stored, and a second RTC 74 that measures the processing time performed by the second control unit and measures the control timing.
[0027]
  Note that the above-described remote diagnosis information area may be set in the second RAM 73 of the facsimile control unit 20 in the above configuration, for example.
[0028]
  In the present embodiment, such a facsimile apparatus 1 is connected to a CSS center 3 (Customer Support System center), which is a management center, as shown in FIG. 3, and is managed by a centralized processing management system.
[0029]
  In this management system, the CSS center 3 performs remote diagnosis of the facsimile machine 1. That is, the facsimile machine 1 transmits its own machine information to the CSS center 3, and the CSS center 3 receives this transmission and detects that an abnormality has occurred in the facsimile machine 1 or supplies are insufficient. Deal with this. A specific process for transmitting the own machine information from the facsimile machine 1 to the CSS center 3 will be described later.
[0030]
  When making a copy with the facsimile apparatus 1, the first control unit 10 first detects the copy mode (reduction, enlargement, number of copies, document size, etc.) set in the operation unit 15 by the user. Then, after image processing is performed on the document information read by the reading unit 11 in accordance with the set copy mode, the document information is output to the writing unit 13 and printed out.
[0031]
  On the other hand, when the facsimile apparatus 1 performs facsimile transmission, the document information read by the reading unit 11 is transmitted to the first control unit together with the transmission mode (designation of transmission destination, transmission time, etc.) input from the operation unit 15 by the user. 10 to the facsimile control unit 20. The document information is stored in the SAF memory 25 after being compressed by the second compression / decompression unit 75.
[0032]
  In addition to such document information, the self-machine information created by the facsimile control unit 20 is input to the SAF memory 25 and stored as necessary.
[0033]
  4A to 4D are views showing document information and own device information stored in the SAF memory 25. FIG. The SAF memory 25 stores document information and own device information as an image file as shown in FIG. In each image file shown in FIG. 4, (A) and (B) represent document information, and (C) and (D) represent own machine information.
[0034]
  Image file numbers such as G002, G003... Are assigned to the image files in FIGS. Information such as the image mode such as image data or code data, the compression method, the image size such as A3 and B4, and the image density is added to the head of each image file.
[0035]
  The document information and the own machine information stored as such an image file are managed in the management file shown in FIG. As shown in the figure, the management file includes an image file number of each image file, a transmission destination corresponding to the image file, a telephone number, a transmission mode, a transmission priority, a transmission mode indicating whether transmission time is specified, This file stores data such as a transmission start time when a transmission time is designated, the number of pages of a document to be transmitted, and the number of pages that have been transmitted (transmitted pages). Each information is given a file number, which is a management file management number.
[0036]
  According to such a management file, for example, the image file G0004 in FIG. 4 is managed as information of the file number 0003 in the management file, and immediately after the image file is created, the highest priority is given. It can be seen that the data is transmitted to the CSS center. Further, for example, it is understood that the image file of G0005 is managed as information of the file number 0004 and is transmitted to the CSS center at 21:00.
[0037]
  The other party and telephone number of the management file are set based on information stored in the remote diagnosis information area of the facsimile control unit 20. In addition, conditions such as transmission priority are determined as follows.
[0038]
  The priority order of document information is all set to “normal”. Then, unless the transmission time is specified, the information is transmitted in the management file in the order in which the information is managed.
[0039]
  On the other hand, conditions such as the priority of transmission of own device information are determined based on the remote diagnosis information in the remote diagnosis information area.
[0040]
  FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of this remote diagnosis information. The remote diagnosis information is data that is stored in advance in the remote diagnosis information area of the facsimile control unit 20 and sets the processing of the own machine information to be transmitted in the remote diagnosis according to the type of the own machine information.
[0041]
  In the example of FIG. 6, processing for abnormality information (SC information), alarm information, accuracy information (counter confirmation information), and supply information is shown as own device information. Here, the abnormality information (SC information) is information indicating an abnormality of the machine that requires a service man call, and the alarm information is not a machine failure but information that may lead to a failure or periodic inspection. It is information indicating that parts replacement and cleaning are sometimes required. Further, the accuracy information (counter confirmation information) is information indicating a count value of a counter that counts the number of copies, and the supply information is information indicating a supply state such as paper and toner.
[0042]
  Of such own machine information, the priority order of the abnormality information and the supply information is set to “highest priority”. Therefore, when an abnormality or supply shortage occurs in the facsimile apparatus 1, even when a large amount of information is already stored in the SAF memory 25, the abnormality information and supply information are transmitted before other information. be able to.
[0043]
  The alarm information and the accuracy information are set so as to be transmitted by specifying a transmission time. When information is transmitted by specifying a transmission time, other information is transmitted with priority over this information except for the specified time. Therefore, other than the transmission time, other information that needs to be transmitted earlier than the alarm information and the accuracy information can be transmitted with priority.
[0044]
  Also, as the transmission time of the alarm information and the accuracy information, a time when the normal communication is low is generally designated, and the influence on the normal communication performed by the facsimile apparatus 1 is reduced.
[0045]
  Hereinafter, a process of registering own device information in the management file of FIG. 5 based on the remote diagnosis information of FIG. 6 will be described for each type of own device information.
[0046]
<Abnormal information>
  When an abnormality occurs in the facsimile machine 1, the first control unit 10 detects this abnormality. The first control unit 10 determines the type of abnormality (for example, fixing abnormality, optical system abnormality, motor abnormality, paper feeding system abnormality, etc.), and SC information data (service) as a record as shown in FIG. Mancall information data).
[0047]
  The SC information data in FIG. 7 is added to the history information (the number of jams, the number of SCs, and the number of various copies) of the facsimile apparatus 1 using the telephone number and model number as ID information, and the time when the abnormality occurred. The identification code indicating that the data is abnormal information and the generated SC information indicating the content of the abnormality are added. The SC information data is input from the first control unit 10 to the facsimile control unit 20.
[0048]
  The facsimile control unit 20 creates an image file G0004 of FIG. 4 based on the input SC information data and stores it in the SAF memory 25. Here, information indicating that it is code data is added to the G0004 image file as a header.
[0049]
  Further, the facsimile control unit 20 extracts the transmission destination and priority (highest priority) for transmitting the abnormality information from the remote diagnosis information, and sets this in the management file as information of the file number 0003. Through the above processing, the abnormality information is registered in the management file.
[0050]
《Supply information》
  When the first control unit 10 detects a shortage of supplies in the facsimile apparatus 1, the first control unit 10 determines the type (for example, toner, paper, etc.) of the short supply, and creates supply information data as supply information. To this supply information data, an identification code indicating that the data is supply information and generated SC information indicating the content of supply shortage are added. The supply information data is input from the first control unit 10 to the facsimile control unit 20.
[0051]
  The facsimile control unit 20 creates an image file based on the input supply information data and stores it in the SAF memory 25. Here, information indicating code data is added as a header to the image file.
[0052]
  Further, the facsimile control unit 20 extracts the transmission destination for sending the supply information and the highest priority order from the remote diagnosis information shown in FIG. 6, and sets them in the management file. With the above processing, the supply information is registered in the management file.
[0053]
<Alarm information>
  When the first control unit 10 detects any alarm in the facsimile apparatus 1, the first control unit 10 determines the content of the alarm and creates alarm information data as alarm information. To this alarm information data, an identification code indicating that the data is alarm information and generated SC information indicating the content of the alarm are added. This alarm information data is input from the first control unit 10 to the facsimile control unit 20.
[0054]
  The facsimile control unit 20 creates an image file based on the input alarm information data and stores it in the SAF memory 25. Here, information indicating code data is added as a header to the image file.
[0055]
  Further, the facsimile control unit 20 extracts a transmission destination and priority order for transmitting alarm information from the remote diagnosis information shown in FIG. That is, priority is set to priority and this transmission time is set to 21:00. Through the above processing, the alarm information is registered in the management file.
[0056]
  The facsimile control unit 20 checks the management file every predetermined time, and if there is information with the highest priority, transmits this information. If there are a plurality of pieces of information having the same priority, the information stored in the management file is transmitted first. Here, if the file numbers are given to the information in the order stored in the management file, it is only necessary to transmit the information with the same priority order from the smallest management file number.
[0057]
  For the information for which the transmission time is designated, the transmission time stored in the management file is compared with an internal clock (not shown) built in the facsimile control unit 20, and the time of the internal clock indicates the transmission time. Send information if it has passed.
[0058]
  At this time, if there is information in which the transmission time before the time of the internal clock is set, this information is started to be transmitted at the transmission time of the next day, and this information is also stored even when the user sets the transmission time incorrectly. It is prevented from being sent immediately.
[0059]
  Information is transmitted via the G3 facsimile control unit 21 or the G4 facsimile control unit 22. Information that has been transmitted is automatically deleted from the management file. The record indicating the transmission state of the erased information is recorded in a file (not shown) for recording a transmission result provided separately.
[0060]
  At this time, if the transmission is interrupted due to an error or the like, the page transmitted to the transmitted page column of the management file so that only the pages that were not transmitted can be transmitted when retransmitting. Record the number and leave this image file in the management file.
[0061]
  In addition, the management file described above can rewrite conditions such as the transmission destination, telephone number, and priority of each device information as necessary. This rewriting operation may be performed manually from the operation unit 15 or may be performed remotely via a facsimile communication line.
[0062]
  In addition, when the facsimile control unit 20 examines the management file and the information transmitted by time designation is concentrated in a certain time zone, the information transmitted at this time is automatically changed to a relatively free time zone. You may make it do.
[0063]
  In particular, information for which the transmission start time is designated may not be transmitted at the designated time when there are many other communications. In such a case, the contents of the management file may be rewritten so that the transmission priority of this information is increased.
[0064]
  Next, the case where the facsimile apparatus 1 of the present embodiment described above is managed by the CSS center as shown in FIG. 3 will be described.
[0065]
"System configuration"
  The facsimile apparatus 1 and the copy apparatus 2 shown in FIG. 3 constitute a system connected to the CSS center 3 via the exchange 5 via a network. Note that the copy device 2 in the figure is a copy-only device. Thus, the apparatus which does not have a communication function can be managed in the CSS center 3 by providing the communication control apparatus 2a separately.
[0066]
  On the other hand, the CSS center 3 includes a first modem 31 that converts data output from the facsimile apparatus 1, a second modem 32 that converts data output from the copy apparatus 2, a first modem 31, and a second modem 32. A communication server 33 that performs communication processing of data converted by the server, a file server 34 that manages the contents of the data as a file, a communication server 33, clients 1 to 6 that receive information provided from the file server 34, and clients 1 to 1 6 has a printer 35 for printing out the received information.
[0067]
  Data transmission from the facsimile machine 1 to the CSS center 3 is performed using a fax protocol. As the first modem 31 for converting this data, for example, a commercially available TR29 class 1 or class 2 modem is used.
[0068]
  Data transmission from the copy apparatus 2 to the CSS center 3 is performed using a data communication protocol via the communication control apparatus. As the second modem 32 for converting this data, a general data communication modem is used.
[0069]
  The clients 1 to 6 include a PC, a keyboard, a display unit, and a network interface. The clients 1 to 6 display the information provided from the communication server 33 on the display unit to notify the CSS center 3 of the status of the facsimile machine 1 or the copy machine 2, or from the keyboard to the facsimile machine 1 or the copy machine 2 Is input.
[0070]
  At this time, the type of failure and the method of coping with the facsimile machine 1 and the copying machine 2 are different. For this reason, the operations of the operator on the CSS center 3 side can be facilitated by dividing the clients 1 to 6 into those dedicated to the copying machine 2 and those dedicated to the facsimile machine 1.
[0071]
<< Transmission process >>
  Next, transmission processing when the facsimile apparatus 1 transmits its own machine information for remote diagnosis of the CSS center 3 will be described.
[0072]
  Self-machine information includes information that is irregularly transmitted (abnormal self-machine information) such as abnormality information and alarm information, and information that is regularly transmitted to the CSS center 3 such as the number of counters (periodic self-machine information). ) In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the irregular machine information is detected by the facsimile machine 1 and transmitted to the CSS center 3. Further, it is assumed that the periodic self-machine information is transmitted by a request from the CSS center 3 to the facsimile machine 1. Note that the own device information referred to in the present embodiment is coded data.
[0073]
  FIG. 8 illustrates the own device information of the present embodiment. 8A and 8B are examples of irregular self-machine information. FIG. 8A shows supply information and FIG. 8B shows abnormality information. FIG. 8C shows information on various counters that are regular self-machine information.
[0074]
  In addition, the own machine information can be transmitted using either the G3 facsimile control unit 21 or the G4 facsimile control unit in FIG. 1, but in this embodiment, it is transmitted via the G3 facsimile control unit 21. The case will be described.
[0075]
1. Irregular aircraft information
  When the facsimile control unit 20 detects the highest priority information such as supply information or abnormality information from the management file, the facsimile control unit 20 immediately enters a process for transmitting this information. When information with a transmission time designated, such as alarm information, is detected, transmission processing is started after waiting for the set transmission time.
[0076]
  The G3 facsimile control unit 21 dials the telephone number input from the facsimile control unit 20 and calls the first modem 31 of the CSS center 3. When the G3 facsimile control unit 21 and the first modem 31 are connected by this processing, this information is transmitted by a predetermined protocol.
[0077]
  9 to 11 are diagrams illustrating a fax protocol used in this transmission. Here, a case will be described in which transmission is performed using the ECM (error correlation mode) fax protocol of FIG. The ECM automatically corrects a communication error on a public line, has high communication reliability, and can transmit code data as it is.
[0078]
  However, a communication device of a general facsimile machine does not have a function for transmitting code data. For this reason, the transmission of the code data is performed, for example, by determining the following procedure in advance.
[0079]
  First, when the CSS center 3 which is a receiving side for receiving information has a function of receiving code data, the CSS center 3 sets a bit indicating that the NSF (Network Station Facility) has a code data receiving function. I'm.
[0080]
  The facsimile apparatus 1 which is a transmitting side for transmitting information detects that the receiving side has a function of receiving code data by this bit. Since the own device information is code data, it is declared that information is transmitted as code data at the time of NSS (Non Standard Set) transmission. Then, the code data is transmitted in the “image information” portion of the fax protocol of FIG.
[0081]
  Upon receiving the transmitted code data, the CSS center 3 stores the code data in the file server 34 via the communication server 33. At this time, since the number and format of information to be handled are generally different between the facsimile machine 1 and the copying machine 2, it is necessary to convert both into the same format and store them.
[0082]
  The clients 1 to 6 check the file server 34 every predetermined time, and if there is new information in the file server 34, the information is displayed on a display unit such as a display. Further, when new information is stored in the file server 34, the file server 34 may notify the clients 1 to 6 of this.
[0083]
  On the other hand, if the first modem 31 is not connected to the G3 facsimile control unit 21 due to communication with another device or the like, “1” is set at the time interval set as “recall interval” in the remote diagnosis information. Redial the number of times set as "Recall count". If the G3 facsimile control unit 21 and the first modem 31 are not connected by this redialing, a message indicating that transmission could not be performed is displayed on the operation unit 15.
[0084]
  At the same time, the non-delivery report shown in FIG. Further, the fact that periodic self-machine information could not be transmitted is also recorded in the management report shown in FIG.
[0085]
  In this way, by outputting the contents of information that could not be transmitted in writing like a non-delivery report, the user can discuss the information that was not transmitted while viewing the non-delivery report with the CSS center 3 by telephone. it can. For this reason, the processing for the failure to transmit the periodic self-machine information is simplified.
[0086]
  If the first modem 31 of the CSS center 3 does not have a function of receiving code data, the facsimile apparatus converts the code data into image data and transmits it to the CSS center 3. Upon receiving the image data, the CSS center 3 performs character recognition processing on the image data, converts it into code data, and inputs the code data to the file server 34. When converting to image data, a bar code may be used for easier recognition. Further, when the receiving side cannot recognize the received information, both characters and a barcode may be inserted so that the information can be easily corrected.
[0087]
  In addition, when the information transmission destination is specified like the CSS center 3, it is also possible to transmit the code data in the normal mode.
[0088]
  Further, depending on the configuration of the CSS center 3, different transmission destinations may be set when information is transmitted as code data and when it is transmitted as image data. In this case, the code data transmission destination and the image data transmission destination may be set separately in the area for storing the telephone number of the management file. Alternatively, one telephone number may be set in the management file, and another telephone number may be extracted from a plurality of preset telephone numbers.
[0089]
2. Periodic aircraft information
  Periodic machine information is transmitted from the facsimile apparatus 1 to the CSS center 3 in response to a request from the CSS center 3. The request information from the CSS center 3 side includes the READ request information in FIG. 14A, the WRITE request information in (B), and the Execute request information in (C). In response to such request information, the facsimile apparatus 1 returns READ return information in FIG. 14D, WRITE return information in (E), and Execute return information in (F).
[0090]
  For example, when the CSS center 3 wants to acquire the counter number of the facsimile machine 1, this request is transmitted as a READ request code of the READ request information. On the other hand, the facsimile machine 1 transmits the requested counter number to the CSS center 3 as read data of READ return information.
[0091]
  Further, when the CSS center 3 wants to write, for example, remote diagnosis data in the facsimile apparatus 1, this request is entered in the WRITE request code of the WRITE request information, and further data to be written is transmitted as write data. On the other hand, the facsimile machine 1 transmits the contents written in response to the request to the CSS center 3 as write data of WRITE return information.
[0092]
  Further, when the CSS center 3 requests the facsimile apparatus 1 to perform any operation based on the Execute request information, the facsimile apparatus 1 operates in response to the request, and the operation result is sent to the CSS center 3 based on the Execute request information. Send.
[0093]
  First, the CSS center 3 dials the facsimile apparatus 1 to connect a line, and transmits, for example, any of the request information shown in FIGS. 14A to 14C. Thereafter, the fax protocol is switched to the polling mode as shown in FIG. 11, and any one of the return information shown in FIGS. 14D to 14F corresponding to the request information is transmitted from the facsimile apparatus 1.
[0094]
  Next, a series of processing of the present embodiment described above will be described with reference to a flowchart. FIGS. 15 and 16 are flowcharts for explaining processing performed by the facsimile control unit 20 of the present embodiment.
[0095]
  When information is input from the first control unit 10, the facsimile control unit 20 determines whether this information corresponds to abnormality information (S1), supply information (S2), or alarm information (S3). If the input information is neither of these, the process returns to the start in order to wait for the input of the next information (S3: NO).
[0096]
  On the other hand, if the input information corresponds to one of these (S1: YES, S2: YES, S3: YES), the information registration subroutine is entered when it is determined that it corresponds (S4).
[0097]
  As shown in FIG. 16, in this information registration subroutine, first, the inputted information is stored in the SAF memory 25 as an image file (S21). Then, it is detected whether this information corresponds to abnormality information, supply information, or alarm information, and information such as a transmission priority order is read from the remote diagnosis information according to the type of this information (S22).
[0098]
  Then, the read information is stored in the management file together with the other party and the telephone number stored in the remote diagnosis information area, this information is registered, and the process returns to the main routine (S23).
[0099]
  The facsimile control unit 20 searches the management file in which information is registered in this way, and enters a transmission mode such as immediate transmission according to the type of information or time designation (S3). If the CSS center 3 as the management center is in the BUSY state as a result of the transmission (S7: YES), redialing is repeated a predetermined number of times set in the remote diagnosis information (S8, S9). As a result, if the facsimile apparatus 1 and the CSS center 3 are not connected, a non-delivery display is displayed on the operation unit 15 (S10), a non-delivery report is output from the writing unit 13 (S11), and further management is performed. This content is stored in the report (S12).
[0100]
  If it is determined in step 7 that the facsimile apparatus 1 and the CSS center 3 are connected (S7: NO), it is determined whether the CSS center 3 has a function of receiving code data. (S13), this information is transmitted as code data (S14). On the other hand, if the CSS center 3 does not have a function of receiving code data, the code data is converted into image data and transmitted (S14).
[0101]
  In the present embodiment described above, the priority order for transmitting the own machine information is determined by the facsimile control unit 20, and the own machine information is transmitted according to this priority order. For this reason, abnormal information and supply information that need to be transmitted at an early stage can be transmitted prior to other information, and an apparatus failure or a shortage of supplies can be dealt with early.
[0102]
  In addition, the facsimile apparatus can always be used in a normal state without causing the facsimile apparatus to transmit other information in an abnormal state. Further, the operation efficiency of the apparatus can be improved without stopping the facsimile apparatus due to a shortage of supplies.
[0103]
  Further, in the present embodiment, alarm information and accuracy information that do not need to be transmitted at an early stage are transmitted at a designated time specified in advance, and are transmitted earlier than the alarm information other than the designated time. Send other information you need in preference. For this reason, it is possible to minimize the influence on other communications by transmitting the alarm information and the accuracy information.
[0104]
  Further, in the present embodiment, by transmitting the own device information from the SAF memory 25, the own device information can be transmitted by designating the transmission time. Furthermore, by determining the priority order between the own device information and other information stored in the SAF memory 25, it is possible to adjust the transmission priority order for other information that is transmitted at a specified time. .
[0105]
  Also, in the present embodiment, conditions such as the priority order of own device information and designated transmission time can be changed as necessary. Therefore, for example, the conditions can be changed according to the information accumulation status of the SAF memory 25, the change of the transmission destination, and the like. For this reason, the own machine information can be transmitted under conditions more suited to the situation, and the usability of the facsimile apparatus can be further enhanced.
[0106]
  In addition, this embodiment automatically outputs a non-delivery report that displays self-machine information that has not been transmitted in characters or images, so that the user can recognize non-delivery of the self-machine information at an early stage. The contents can be recognized in writing. For this reason, it is possible to easily perform re-transmission and a meeting for coping with this.
[0107]
【The invention's effect】
  As described above, the image forming apparatus of the present invention (Claim 1) determines the priority by the priority determining means for determining the priority of the own device information including the priority of the image information. To send your own device information. Accordingly, own device information that needs to be transmitted early can be transmitted prior to other information, and this own device information can be dealt with early. Furthermore, it is possible to preferentially transmit other information over the own device information that does not need to be transmitted earlier, and it is possible to suppress the influence on the transmission of other information by transmitting the own device information.
[0108]
  Further, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention (claim 2) uses the abnormality information and the supply information as its own information, and determines the priority order so that the information is transmitted with priority over other information. And the shortage of supplies can be dealt with early.
[0109]
  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention (claim 3) uses the alarm information as its own information, transmits the alarm information at a specified time specified in advance, and other information than the alarm information other than the specified time. The priority order is determined so as to be transmitted with priority. Therefore, priority can be given to other information over alarm information that does not need to be transmitted at an early stage. For this reason, the influence on other information transmission by transmitting alarm information can be suppressed. Further, if the transmission time of alarm information is set to a time when other transmission / reception is relatively short, the influence on the normal communication operation can be further reduced.
[0110]
  Further, the image forming apparatus of the present invention (claim 4) transmits the own apparatus information from the memory of the image forming apparatus, so that even when the own apparatus information cannot be transmitted, it can be retransmitted relatively easily. Can do. In addition, the own device information can be transmitted by designating the transmission time.
[0111]
  In addition, the image forming apparatus according to the present invention (claim 5) can change the priority order of its own device information as necessary, thereby changing the priority order according to other information transmission states. be able to. For this reason, it is possible to set a priority order more suited to the situation, and to further improve the usability of the image forming apparatus.
[0112]
  Further, the image forming apparatus of the present invention (Claim 6) provides a non-delivery report that displays the self-machine information that has not been transmitted in characters or images when the self-machine information has not been transmitted a predetermined number of times. Can output automatically. For this reason, a user can recognize the non-delivery of own-machine information at an early stage, and can cope with this.
[0113]
The image forming apparatus management system of the present invention (claim 7) determines the priority by priority determining means for determining the priority of the own device information including the priority of the image information, and according to the priority. Send your device information. Accordingly, own device information that needs to be transmitted early can be transmitted prior to other information, and this own device information can be dealt with early. Furthermore, it is possible to preferentially transmit other information over the own device information that does not need to be transmitted earlier, and it is possible to suppress the influence on the transmission of other information by transmitting the own device information.
[0114]
Also, in the own device information transmission method of the present invention (claim 8), the priority order is determined by the priority order determining means for determining the priority order of the own device information including the priority order of the image information, and according to this priority order. Send your device information. Accordingly, own device information that needs to be transmitted early can be transmitted prior to other information, and this own device information can be dealt with early. Furthermore, it is possible to preferentially transmit other information over the own device information that does not need to be transmitted earlier, and it is possible to suppress the influence on the transmission of other information by transmitting the own device information.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing in more detail a first control unit and a facsimile control unit in FIG. 1;
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a system when the facsimile apparatus explained in FIG. 1 is managed by a centralized processing method.
FIGS. 4A to 4D are diagrams showing document information and own device information stored in a SAF memory. FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a management file according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 6 is a diagram showing remote diagnosis information according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating SC information data according to an embodiment of the present invention.
8A and 8B are diagrams illustrating self-machine information according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8A shows supply information, FIG. 8B shows abnormality information, and FIG. 8C shows information on various counters.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a fax protocol used in transmission according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 10 is another diagram illustrating a fax protocol used in transmission according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 11 is another diagram illustrating a fax protocol used in transmission according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a non-delivery report according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a management report according to the embodiment of this invention.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing request information and return information according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart for explaining processing according to an embodiment of the present invention;
FIG. 16 is a subroutine of the flowchart of FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
  1 Facsimile device
  10 1st control part
  11 Reading unit
  13 Writing section
  15 Operation unit
  20 Facsimile controller
  21 G3 facsimile control unit
  22 G4 facsimile control unit

Claims (8)

An image forming apparatus having a function of transmitting own image information indicating a state of the own device into a predetermined code and a function of transmitting image information,
Priority order determining means for determining the priority order of the device information including the priority order of the image information;
Transmitting means for transmitting the image information and the own device information according to the priority determined by the priority determining means;
An image forming apparatus comprising:   The priority order determination means uses abnormality information indicating abnormality of the own device and supply information indicating presence / absence of consumables as own device information, and the abnormality information and the supply information are transmitted with priority over other information. 2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the priority order is determined as follows.   The priority order determining means uses as its own information alarm information indicating a minor abnormality that does not directly affect the operation of the apparatus, notification of parts replacement / cleaning / maintenance time according to the frequency of use, and the alarm information. The priority order is determined such that information other than the specified time is transmitted prior to the specified time at a specified time specified in advance. Image forming apparatus.   The transmission unit transmits the own device information from a memory included in the image forming apparatus, and the priority order determination unit determines a priority order between the own device information and other information stored in the memory. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the priority order determining unit can change the priority order of the own device information as necessary.   The transmission means automatically outputs a non-delivery report displaying the self-machine information in characters or an image when the self-machine information is not transmitted even if the self-machine information is transmitted a predetermined number of times. Item 2. The image forming apparatus according to Item 1. In an image forming apparatus management system in which a management center and an image forming apparatus having a function of converting own information indicating the state of the own apparatus into a predetermined code and transmitting and a function of transmitting image information are connected via a communication circuit ,
The image forming apparatus includes:
Priority order determining means for determining the priority order of the device information including the priority order of the image information;
Transmitting means for transmitting the image information and the own device information according to the priority determined by the priority determining means;
An image forming apparatus management system comprising: In the self-machine information transmission method for transmitting the self-machine information to the outside from an image forming apparatus having a function of converting the self-machine information indicating the status of the self-machine into a predetermined code and transmitting the image information,
A priority order determining step for determining the priority order of the device information including the priority order of the image information;
A transmission step of transmitting the image information and the own device information in accordance with the priority determined in the priority determination step;
The own-machine-information transmission method characterized by including.

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