JP3880829B2 - Digital image forming system - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention includes an image forming apparatus including, for example, a digital copying machine, and a portable image communication apparatus including, for example, a mobile phone. Digital image forming system Is.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, as disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 64-57868, a digital image forming apparatus having a function of transmitting image data to another apparatus is known. The digital image forming apparatus includes a copy mode in which image data of a document read by a scanner is printed out by a recording unit, and a facsimile mode in which the image data is transmitted to another apparatus through a communication device and a communication line. It is a compound copying machine.
[0003]
The digital image forming apparatus disclosed in the above publication can automatically switch between the copy mode and the facsimile mode. With such a configuration, it is possible to efficiently copy or fax original image data. The image data received by the facsimile function can be output from the recording unit.
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
When the facsimile function of the digital image forming apparatus or a general facsimile apparatus is used, image data can be transmitted to a specific destination. However, in this case, it is limited to the case where the transmission partner is always in a specific place. That is, image data cannot be quickly transmitted to a transmission partner whose location is unspecified, such as a businessman who moves to visit many business partners at work.
[0005]
On the other hand, if a mobile phone that is widely used as a portable communication terminal is used, the mobile phone's mobile phone can be used even if the mobile phone is in an unspecified location. Can convey necessary information. However, in this case, the image data cannot be transmitted.
[0006]
On the other hand, when a businessman urgently obtains a document to be transmitted to a predetermined destination at the destination, the document cannot be quickly transmitted unless it is also carried by a portable facsimile machine. Further, the facsimile apparatus as described above is actually unsuitable for carrying because of weight and size. For example, when borrowing a facsimile machine at a destination, the communication fee varies depending on the communication distance, time, time zone, service company, etc., and the settlement is troublesome. When Such a problem also occurs, and this method cannot be used easily.
[0007]
Therefore, the present invention provides a digital image forming system capable of easily and quickly transmitting and receiving image data and visualizing the image data even when the sender or receiver of the image data is in an unspecified place. And an image data transfer method.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to solve the above-described problems, a digital image forming system of the present invention uses a digital image forming apparatus that is widely used at present, for example, a digital copying machine and a portable image communication apparatus, for example, a mobile phone. It is configured as follows.
[0009]
In other words, the digital image forming system of the present invention is a digital image forming apparatus comprising a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the digital image forming apparatus and the communication management apparatus. In the system, the communication management device includes: When image data to be transmitted to a specific portable image communication device is received, the image data and destination information A storage unit for storing Send a message that there is image data to be transmitted to the specific portable image communication device, and according to the message, Said specific Based on the request from the portable image communication device, the image data stored in the storage unit is specific Control means for transmitting to the portable image communication device Thereby functioning as a relay device for managing communication of the portable image communication device. The portable image communication apparatus includes: a storage unit that stores image data transmitted from the communication management apparatus; and the digital image forming apparatus that is placed at a destination of an operator carrying the portable image communication apparatus. Communication Communication by mounting the portable image communication apparatus on the digital image forming apparatus or facing the portable image communication apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus. By requesting the image data stored in the communication management device in a possible state, the image data transmitted from the communication management device is stored in the storage unit, and the image data stored in the storage unit is stored. Control means for transferring the image data to the digital image forming apparatus, and the digital image forming apparatus has been transferred from the visible image forming means for visualizing image data and the portable image communication apparatus. And a control means for supplying the image data to the visualizing means.
[0010]
According to said structure, the image data transmitted to the said portable image communication apparatus from another communication apparatus are memorize | stored in the memory | storage means of a communication management apparatus. On the other hand, the operator of the portable image communication apparatus operates the portable image communication apparatus and confirms the presence of image data in the communication management apparatus. Here, you can confirm the existence of the image data. If The operator requests transfer of the image data, and based on this, the image data transfer request is made from the portable image communication apparatus to the communication management apparatus, and the image data is transferred from the communication management apparatus to the portable image communication apparatus. Is transferred. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is further transferred to the digital image forming apparatus. In the digital image forming apparatus, the image data is visualized by the visualizing means.
[0011]
In this digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management device, and the portable image communication device requests the transfer of the image data as necessary. Can do.
[0012]
Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0013]
still, A digital image forming apparatus; and a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the digital image forming apparatus and further capable of communicating with the communication management apparatus. Storage means for storing image data transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and notification information indicating that the image data is stored in the storage means is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and the portable Control means for reading out the image data from the storage means and transferring the image data to the portable image communication apparatus when the image data transfer request is received from the image communication apparatus, the portable image communication apparatus comprising: In a state where communication with the image forming apparatus is possible, after receiving the notification information from the communication management apparatus, a transfer request for the image data is made to the communication management apparatus. Control means for transferring the image data transferred from the communication management apparatus to the digital image forming apparatus, the digital image forming apparatus comprising: a visualizing means for visualizing the image data; and the portable Control means for supplying image data transferred from the image communication device to the visualizing means A digital image forming system is also possible .
[0014]
According to said structure, the image data transmitted to the said portable image communication apparatus from another communication apparatus are memorize | stored in the memory | storage means of a communication management apparatus. At this time, the notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, so that the operator of the portable image communication apparatus can know the presence of the image data in the communication management apparatus. The operator requests transfer of the image data, and based on this, the image data transfer request is made from the portable image communication apparatus to the communication management apparatus, and the image data is transferred from the communication management apparatus to the portable image communication apparatus. Transferred. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is further transferred to the digital image forming apparatus. In the digital image forming apparatus, the image data is visualized by the visualizing means.
[0015]
In this digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management device, and the portable image communication device requests the transfer of the image data as necessary. Can do. Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0016]
further, A digital image forming apparatus; and a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the digital image forming apparatus and further capable of communicating with the communication management apparatus. Storage means for storing image data information transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and notification information indicating that the image data has been stored in the storage means is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and Control means for reading the image data from the storage means and transferring the image data to the portable image communication apparatus when a request for transferring the image data is received from the image communication apparatus for portable use. A storage unit for storing data; and after receiving the notification information from the communication management device, makes a transfer request for the image data to the communication management device, and the communication Control means for storing the image data transferred from the processing apparatus in the storage means, reading out the image data stored in the storage means and transmitting it to the digital image forming apparatus, the digital image forming apparatus comprising: A visualizing means for visualizing the image data; and a control means for supplying the visual data to the visualizing means with the image data transferred from the portable image communication device. A digital image forming system is also possible .
[0017]
According to said structure, the image data transmitted to the said portable image communication apparatus from another communication apparatus are memorize | stored in the memory | storage means of a communication management apparatus. At this time, notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and the operator of the portable image communication apparatus can know the presence of the image data in the communication management apparatus by this notification information. The operator requests transfer of the image data, and based on this, the image data transfer request is made from the portable image communication apparatus to the communication management apparatus, and the image data is transferred from the communication management apparatus to the portable image communication apparatus. Transferred. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is stored in the storage unit of the portable image communication apparatus. After that, when the portable image communication apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus are in a communicable state, the image data is transferred from the portable image communication apparatus to the digital image forming apparatus. The image data is visualized by the means.
[0018]
In this digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management device, and the portable image communication device requests the transfer of the image data as necessary. Can do. Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0019]
Further, since the image data transferred from the communication management device to the portable image communication device is temporarily stored in the storage means of the portable image communication device, the operator can form the digital image formation device at an appropriate time. It is possible to obtain a visualized image of image data in a state where communication with the apparatus is possible.
[0020]
In the above digital image forming system, the communication between the communication management device and the portable image communication device may be telephone communication.
[0021]
Thereby, it becomes possible to transmit and receive image data between unspecified portable image communication apparatuses.
[0022]
further, First, image data read by a document image reading device provided in the digital image forming apparatus is transmitted from the digital image forming apparatus to the communication management apparatus via a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the communication management apparatus. The second step in which the communication management device stores the transmitted image data, and the portable image communication device requests the transfer of the image data stored in the communication management device as necessary. Including a third step Possible image data transfer method .
[0023]
According to the above configuration, the image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management device, and the portable image communication device requests the transfer of the image data as necessary. Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0024]
Further, a first step of transmitting image data to the communication management device via a portable image communication device capable of communicating with the communication management device, and a first step of storing the transmitted image data in the communication management device. And a third step in which the portable image communication device requests transfer of image data stored in the communication management device as necessary. Possible image data transfer method .
[0025]
Furthermore, in the digital image forming method in the digital image forming system, which can communicate with the digital image forming apparatus and further includes a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the communication management apparatus, the communication management apparatus includes: A first step of storing image data transmitted from another communication device to the portable image communication device, and notifying the portable image communication device that the image data is stored; and communication management The portable image communication apparatus notified that the image data is stored by the apparatus makes a second step of requesting the communication management apparatus to transfer the image data, and the portable image communication apparatus receives the image data from the portable image communication apparatus. The communication management device that has received the transfer request transmits the image data to the portable image communication device, and the communication management device receives the image data from the communication management device. The portable image communication apparatus to which the image data is transmitted transfers the received image data to the digital image forming apparatus, and the digital image forming apparatus to which the image data is transferred from the portable image communication apparatus receives the fourth step. A fifth step of visualizing the processed image data. Digital image data formation method is also possible .
[0026]
Further, in a digital image forming method in a digital image forming system that is capable of communicating with a digital image forming apparatus and further comprising a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with a communication management apparatus, the communication management apparatus includes: A first step of storing image data addressed to the portable image communication device and notifying the portable image communication device that the image data has been stored; and that the communication management device stores the image data. A second step of notifying the portable image communication device and requesting the communication management device to transfer image data in the subsequent operation; and a communication management device having received the image data transfer request transmits image data. And a fourth step in which the digital image forming apparatus that has received the transmitted image data visualizes the received image data, and Which comprise Digital image data formation method is also possible .
[0027]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[Reference Example 1]
A reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0028]
As shown in FIG. 2, the digital image forming system includes a digital copying machine 1 as a digital image forming apparatus and a mobile phone 2 as a portable image communication apparatus. The mobile phone 2 can communicate with other communication devices using a telephone communication network, and is detachably attached to the digital copying machine 1.
[0029]
As shown in FIG. 3, the digital copying machine 1 includes a scanner unit 11 and a laser printer unit 12. The scanner unit 11 includes a document placing table 21 made of transparent glass, a double-sided automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as RADF) 22 that automatically conveys a document onto the document placing table 21, and a document placing table 21. The scanner unit 23 scans and reads an image of a placed document.
[0030]
The RADF 22 is a device that automatically feeds documents set on a document tray (not shown) at a time onto the document placing table 21 one by one. The RADF 22 passes through a conveyance path for a single-sided document (not shown), a conveyance path for a double-sided document, a conveyance path switching unit, and other parts so that the scanner unit 23 reads one or both sides of the document according to an operator's selection. A sensor group and a control unit for grasping and managing the state of a document to be managed are provided. This RADF 22 is a well-known one.
[0031]
The scanner unit 23 includes a first scanning unit 24, a second scanning unit 25, an optical lens 26, and a CCD (Charge Coupled Device) 27. The first scanning unit 24 includes a lamp reflector assembly 28 that exposes a document surface and a first reflection mirror 29 that reflects a reflected light image from the document. The second scanning unit 25 includes second and third reflecting mirrors 30 and 31 for guiding the reflected light image from the first reflecting mirror 29 to the CCD 27. The optical lens 26 forms a reflected light image from the original on the CCD 27. The CCD 27 converts the reflected light image from the original into an electrical image signal.
[0032]
The scanner unit 11 moves the scanner unit 23 along the lower surface of the document placing table 21 while sequentially placing the document to be read on the document placing table 21 by the operation related to the RADF 22 and the scanner unit 23. The document image is configured to be read. The first scanning unit 24 travels at a constant speed V from the left to the right in the figure along the document placing table 21, and the second scanning unit 25 is in the same direction at a speed of V / 2 with respect to the speed V. Scan in parallel. As a result, the image of the document placed on the document placement table 21 is sequentially formed on the CCD 27 for each line, and the image is read.
[0033]
The image data obtained from the scanner unit 23 is sent to the image processing unit 13 shown in FIG. 4, subjected to various processes, and temporarily stored in the image memory 64 of the image processing unit 13. Further, this image data is read from the image memory 64 in response to an output instruction, transferred to the laser printer unit 12, and recorded as an image on a recording sheet.
[0034]
The laser printer unit 12 includes a laser writing unit 41, an electrophotographic process unit 42 for forming an image, and a recording sheet conveyance system 43 on which an image is recorded.
[0035]
The laser writing unit 41 corrects the semiconductor laser light source (not shown), a polygon mirror that deflects the laser light at an equal angular velocity, and corrects the laser beam deflected at the equal angular velocity so as to be deflected on the photosensitive drum 44 at an equal angular velocity. It has a lens. The semiconductor laser light source emits laser light in accordance with image data read from the image memory 64 or image data transferred from an external device.
[0036]
The electrophotographic process unit 42 includes a charger, a developing device, a transfer device, a peeling device, a cleaning device, and a static eliminator around the photosensitive drum 44 according to a well-known mode.
[0037]
The transport system 43 includes a transport unit 45, cassette paper feeding devices 46 and 47, a manual paper feeding device 48, a fixing device 49, and a resupply path 50. The conveyance unit 45 conveys the recording sheet to a transfer position where the transfer unit of the electrophotographic process unit 42 is disposed. The cassette paper feeding devices 46 and 47 feed recording sheets to the conveyance unit 45. The manual sheet feeding device 48 is for feeding a recording sheet of an arbitrary size. The fixing device 49 fixes the toner image formed on the recording sheet on the recording sheet. The resupply path 50 is for resupplying the recording sheet to the transfer position when an image is formed again on the back surface of the recording sheet that has passed through the fixing device 49.
[0038]
A post-processing device 51 is provided downstream of the fixing device 49. The post-processing device 51 performs post-processing such as stapling on the recording sheet on which the image is recorded.
[0039]
In the laser printer unit 12, the image data read from the image memory 64 is output as laser light by the laser writing unit 41. The laser beam scans the surface of the photosensitive drum 43, whereby an electrostatic latent image is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 43. The electrostatic latent image is developed with toner supplied from the developing device to become a toner image. This toner image is transferred to a recording sheet supplied from either one of the cassette paper feeding devices 46 and 47 and the manual paper feeding device 48 by a transfer device. The toner image on the recording sheet is fixed by a fixing device 49. Thereafter, the recording sheet is processed by the post-processing device 51 as necessary, and discharged outside the apparatus.
[0040]
Further, as shown in FIG. 4, the digital copying machine 1 includes an image processing unit 13 that performs various types of image processing on image data of a document read by the scanner unit 11. Next, the configuration and function of the image processing unit 13 will be described.
[0041]
The image processing unit 13 includes an image data input unit 61, an image data processing unit 62, an image data output unit 63, an image memory 64 composed of a RAM (Random Access Memory) or a hard disk, and a CPU (Central Processing Unit). ) 65.
[0042]
The image data input unit 61 includes a CCD unit 61a, a histogram processing unit 61b, and an error diffusion processing unit 61c. The image data input unit 61 binarizes and converts the original image data obtained from the CCD 27, and processes the image data by the error diffusion method while taking a histogram as a binary digital quantity. The processed image data is temporarily stored in the image memory 64.
[0043]
That is, in the CCD unit 61a, an analog electric signal corresponding to each pixel density of the image data is A / D converted, and then subjected to MTF correction, black and white correction, or gamma correction, and is converted into a 256 gradation (8 bits) digital signal. It is output to the histogram processing unit 61b.
[0044]
In the histogram processing unit 61b, the digital signal output from the CCD unit 61a is added for each pixel density of 256 gradations, thereby obtaining density information (histogram data). The histogram data is sent to the error diffusion processing unit 61c as pixel data, and is sent to the CPU 65 as necessary.
[0045]
In the error diffusion processing unit 61c, 8 bits / pixel output from the CCD unit 61a is obtained by an error diffusion method, which is a kind of pseudo-inquiry processing, that is, a method of reflecting binarization error in binarization determination of adjacent pixels. The digital signal is converted into 1 bit (binary), and redistribution calculation is performed to faithfully reproduce the local area density in the original.
[0046]
The image data processing unit 62 includes multi-value processing units 62a and 62b, a composition processing unit 62c, a density conversion processing unit 62d, a scaling processing unit 62e, an image processing unit 62f, an error diffusion processing unit 62g, and a compression processing unit 62h. It is out. The image data processing unit 62 is a processing unit that finally converts input image data into image data desired by the operator. The image data is processed by the image data processing unit 62 until it is stored in the image memory 64 as finally converted output image data. However, the above-described processing units included in the image data processing unit 62 function as necessary and may not function.
[0047]
In the multivalue processing units 62a and 62b, the data binarized by the error diffusion processing unit 61c is converted again into 256 gradations. In the synthesis processing unit 62c, a logical operation for each pixel, that is, an operation of logical sum, logical product, or exclusive logical sum is selectively performed. The data to be subjected to this calculation is pixel data stored in the image memory 64 and bit data from the pattern generator (PG). In the density conversion processing unit 62d, the relationship of the output density to the input density is arbitrarily set based on a predetermined gradation conversion table for 256 gradation data.
[0048]
In the scaling processing unit 62e, pixel data interpolation processing is performed with the input known data in accordance with the instructed scaling ratio. Thereby, pixel data (density value) for the target pixel after scaling is obtained. Here, the main scanning direction is subjected to scaling processing after the sub-scanning direction has been scaled. In the image processing unit 62f, various image processes are performed on the input pixel data, and information collection such as feature extraction for the data string is performed. In the error diffusion processing unit 62g, processing similar to that of the error diffusion processing unit 61c of the image data input unit 61 is performed.
[0049]
In the compression processing unit 62h, binary data is compressed by encoding called run length. As for the compression of the image data, the compression functions in the final processing loop when the final output image data is completed.
[0050]
The image data output unit 63 includes a restoration unit 63a, a multi-value processing unit 63b, an error diffusion processing unit 63c, and a laser output unit 63d. The image data output unit 63 restores the image data stored in the image memory 64 in the compressed state, converts the image data back to the original 256 gradations, and converts the quaternary data that becomes a halftone expression smoother than the binary data. Perform error diffusion.
[0051]
In the restoration unit 63a, the image data compressed by the compression processing unit 62h is restored. In the multi-value processing unit 63b, processing similar to that of the multi-value processing units 62a and 62b of the image data processing unit 62 is performed. In the error diffusion processing unit 63c, processing similar to that of the error diffusion processing unit 61c of the image data input unit 61 is performed.
[0052]
The laser output unit 63d converts the digital pixel data into a laser on / off signal based on a control signal from a sequence controller (not shown). Based on this signal, the semiconductor laser in the laser writing unit 41 is turned on / off, and an electrostatic latent image is written on the photosensitive drum 44.
[0053]
The image data handled by the image data input unit 61 and the image data output unit 63 is basically stored in the image memory 64 as binary data in order to reduce the capacity of the image memory 64. It is also possible to process 4-level data in consideration of deterioration of
[0054]
The operation of the digital copying machine 1 is controlled by the main CPU 65, and the configuration of the control system by the main CPU 65 is as shown in FIG.
[0055]
In this figure, a desk-related load 66, a RADF-related load 67, an operation board unit 68, a sorter control unit 69, a scanner-related load 70, a printer-related load 71, and the image data processing unit 62 are connected to the main CPU 65. .
[0056]
The main CPU 65 manages each of the above parts by sequence control, and outputs a control signal to each part at the time of control. The desk-related load 66 is a load of a motor, a clutch or the like in the sorter of the cassette paper feeding devices 46 and 47, the manual paper feeding device 48, and the post-processing device 51. The RADF-related load 67 is a load such as a motor, a clutch, and a switch in the RADF 22. The scanner-related load 70 is a load such as a motor and a solenoid in the scanner unit 23. The printer-related load 71 is a load such as a motor, a solenoid, and a high-voltage power source in the electrophotographic process unit 42.
[0057]
The sorter control unit 69 includes a CPU, and controls the operation of the sorter based on a control signal from the main CPU 65.
[0058]
The operation board unit 68 is an input unit for various settings such as a copy mode by the operator for the digital copying machine 1 and commands, and includes a CPU. The operation board unit 68 transfers, to the main CPU 65, a control signal corresponding to, for example, a copy mode set by an operator through input. The main CPU 65 operates the digital copying machine 1 in accordance with the mode based on the control signal. On the other hand, the main CPU 65 transfers a control signal indicating the operation state of the digital copying machine 1 to the operation board unit 68. Based on the control signal, the operation board unit 68 displays the operating state of the digital copying machine 1 to the operator and displays the state on the display unit.
[0059]
The image memory 64 connected to the image data processing unit 62 includes a main memory 64a made of, for example, a semiconductor memory and a hard disk 64b. An image data communication unit is connected to the main memory 64a. The image data communication unit 72 is provided to enable information communication such as image data and image control signals with other digital information devices.
[0060]
The operation board unit 68 includes an operation panel 73 shown in FIG. The operation board unit 68 outputs information such as designation of a copy mode input by the operator through the operation panel 73 to the main CPU 65. The main CPU 65 operates the digital copying machine 1 in accordance with this information.
[0061]
A touch panel type liquid crystal display device 81 is arranged at the center of the operation panel 73. A screen switching instruction area 81 a is provided on a part of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 81. This screen switching instruction area 81a is for inputting an instruction to switch the display screen of the liquid crystal display device 81 to a screen for selecting an image editing function. When the operator directly presses the area 81a with a finger, various editing functions are displayed in a list on the screen of the liquid crystal display device 81 so that a desired function can be selected as will be described later. At this time, when the operator presses the desired editing function area with his / her finger among the displayed display areas of the various editing functions, the editing function is set.
[0062]
Further, the operation panel 73 is provided with a brightness adjustment dial 82 for adjusting the brightness of the screen of the liquid crystal display device 81 at the left end position in FIG. Between the dial 82 and the liquid crystal display 81, an automatic magnification setting key 83, a zoom key 84, fixed magnification keys 85 and 86, an equal magnification key 87, a double-sided mode setting key 88, and a post-processing mode setting key 89 are provided. ing.
[0063]
An automatic magnification setting key 83 is for setting a mode for automatically selecting a copying magnification, and a zoom key 84 is for setting a copying magnification in 1% increments. The fixed magnification keys 85 and 86 are for selecting a fixed magnification, and the equal magnification key 87 is for returning the copy magnification to the standard magnification (equal magnification). A duplex mode setting key 88 is for setting a duplex mode, and a post-processing mode setting key 89 is for setting a predetermined post-processing mode.
[0064]
In the vicinity of the liquid crystal display device 81, a density switching key 90, a density adjustment key 91, and a tray selection key 92 are provided. A density switching key 90 is used to switch the copy density adjustment from automatic to manual or from a photo mode. The density adjustment key 91 is for finely setting the density level in the manual mode or the photo mode. The tray selection key 92 is used to select a paper feeding device to be used, that is, a recording sheet having a size to be used, from the cassette paper feeding devices 46 and 47 and the manual paper feeding device 48.
[0065]
On the right side of the liquid crystal display device 81 in the figure, there are a numeric keypad 93, a clear key 94, a print switch 95, a full release key 96, an interrupt key 97, an operation guide key 98, a message forward key 99, a memory transmission mode key 100, A mode switching key 101 and a one-touch dial key 102 are provided.
[0066]
The numeric keypad 93 is used for setting the number of copies, and the clear key 94 is operated when clearing the number of copies or stopping continuous copying halfway. The print switch 95 is for instructing the start of copying, and the all cancel key 96 is for canceling all the currently set modes and returning to the standard state. The interrupt key 97 is operated when it is desired to copy another document during continuous copying. The operation guide key 98 is operated when the operation of the digital copying machine 1 is not known. When the operation guide key 98 is operated, the operation method of the digital copying machine 1 is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81. The message forward key 99 is used for switching while displaying the message displayed by operating the operation guide key 98 in order.
[0067]
A memory transmission mode key 100, a mode switching key 101, and a one-touch dial key 102 are setting keys relating to the facsimile mode. The memory transmission mode key 100 is used to designate that the transmission original is temporarily stored in the memory and then transmitted. The mode switching key 101 is for selecting and switching the operation mode of the digital copying machine 1 from each mode such as copy / printer / fax / cell phone transmission. The one-touch dial key 102 is for making a call by a one-touch operation to a transmission destination whose telephone number is stored in the digital copying machine 1 in advance.
[0068]
Note that the configuration of the operation panel 73 relating to the types and arrangement of the various keys is merely an example, and differs depending on the various functions installed in the digital copying machine 1.
[0069]
Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the digital copying machine 1 can be attached and detached with the mobile phone 2 in the mounting portion 1a. The image data communication unit 72 is provided in the mounting portion 1a. The image data communication unit 72 is a modem device used in, for example, normal facsimile communication. The image data modulated by the image data communication unit 72 is input to the mobile phone 2 and transmitted to another communication device through the mobile phone 2. For this reason, the image data communication unit 72 and the mobile phone 2 are provided with a connector 72a and a connector 2a for mutual connection as shown in FIG. The mobile phone 2 also includes a display unit 133, an antenna 134, dial keys 135 having numbers 0 to 9, a redial key 136, an input key 137 for inputting a predetermined command, and the like. The redial key 136 is operated when calling the caller dialed last time again, as provided in a normal telephone, and is for simplifying the call operation.
[0070]
The image data is supplied to the image data communication unit 72 as follows, for example. That is, when the document to be transmitted is set in the RADF 22 and the print switch 95 is turned on, the scanner unit 11 reads the document image. The image data obtained as a result is appropriately processed by the image processing unit 13 and then sequentially taken into the image memory 64. On the other hand, the cellular phone 2 calls the transmission destination input on the operation panel 73 and completes the connection with the destination. Thereafter, the image data stored in the image memory 64 is supplied to the image data communication unit 72, and the above-described transmission of the image data is performed.
[0071]
The image processing unit 13 not only supplies the image data to the mobile phone 2 via the image data communication unit 72 but also converts the image data into a format that can be handled by the communication apparatus that is the transmission destination. You can also do it.
[0072]
In order to enable the operation as described above, the digital copying machine 1 and the mobile phone 2 constitute the control circuit shown in FIG. The digital copying machine 1 is provided with the main CPU 65 that manages the entire digital copying machine and a display CPU 121 that manages the operation board unit 68, and a display memory 122 is connected to the display CPU 121. As described above, the main CPU 65 manages operations of the scanner unit 11, the laser printer unit 12, the image processing unit 13 including the image memory 64, and other units. The main CPU 65 can communicate with the display CPU 121 and sets various operation modes based on instructions from the operator input from the operation panel 73 of the operation board unit 68 to manage the entire operation of the digital copying machine 1. It can be done.
[0073]
Further, the digital copying machine 1 includes a fax function unit as an image transmission unit including the scanner unit 11, the main CPU 65, the image memory 64, the image data communication unit 72, the operation panel 73, and the like. The fax function unit includes an image data communication unit 72. In this case, the image data communication unit 72 is also connected to a telephone line.
[0074]
On the other hand, the mobile phone 2 includes a CPU 131, a memory 132, a display unit 133, an antenna 134, and the like. The CPU 131 includes a memory 132 and a display unit 133, and manages the operation of the entire mobile phone 2. Image data transferred from the digital copying machine 1 via the image data communication unit 72 is stored in the memory 132.
[0075]
The mounting unit 1a is provided with a lock mechanism 111 for preventing the cellular phone 2 from being unintentionally detached from the mounting unit 1a. The lock mechanism 111 includes a pair of lock claws 112, a spring 113 that is an elastic member, and an eccentric cam 114, as well as a cam drive device 115 that drives the eccentric cam 114 and a pair of mobile phone mounting sensors 116 and 116. ing.
[0076]
The lock claw 112 is provided to face one side and the other side of the mobile phone 2 attached to the attachment part 1a. The lower portion of the lock claw 112 is rotatably attached to the mounting portion 1a, and the claw portions 112a formed on the upper portion face each other. Corresponding to the claw portion 112a, the cellular phone 2 is formed with a recess 2b that can be fitted to the claw portion 112a. The spring 113 pulls the upper part of the lock claw 112 in a direction away from the mobile phone 2.
[0077]
The eccentric cam 114 is in contact with the lock claw 112, and the lock claw 112 is rotated in the direction of the mobile phone 2 against the pulling force of the spring 113 by a pressing operation to the lock claw 112 by the rotation or swing of the eccentric cam 114. It is something to be made. When the eccentric cam 114 performs the above pressing operation, the claw portion 112a of the lock claw 112 is fitted into the recess 2b of the mobile phone 2 attached to the attachment portion 1a, and the mobile phone 2 is detached from the attachment portion 1a. It becomes impossible. This is a lock state of the lock mechanism 111. On the other hand, when the pressing operation by the eccentric cam 114 is released, the lock claw 112 is pulled by the spring 113 and separated from the mobile phone 2. As a result, the cellular phone 2 can be detached from the mounting portion 1a. This is the unlocked state of the lock mechanism 111.
[0078]
The mobile phone mounting sensor 116 detects the mounting state and non-mounting state of the mobile phone 2 in the mounting portion 1a. A detection signal of the mobile phone wearing sensor 116 is input to the main CPU 65. The main CPU 65 detects the cam driving device 115 so that the eccentric cam 114 performs the pressing operation when the mounting state is detected by the mobile phone mounting sensor 116 and the digital copying machine 1 is in the lock request state. To control. On the other hand, the cam driving device 115 is controlled so that the pressing operation by the eccentric cam 114 is released when the non-mounted state is detected by the mobile phone mounting sensor 116 and the digital copying machine 1 is not in the lock request state. To do. As a result, it is possible to prevent the mobile phone 2 from being accidentally removed from the digital copying machine 1 when the digital copying machine 1 is in a lock request state.
[0079]
In this reference example, the lock request state is a case where the digital copying machine 1 and the mobile phone 2 are communicating for transmission / reception of image data or the like.
[0080]
As an alternative to the lock mechanism 111, the mobile phone 2 may be covered with a cover when the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a, and the cover opening / closing mechanism may be locked in the locked state.
[0081]
In the above configuration, the specific operation of the digital image forming system will be described below.
[0082]
In the present digital image forming system, image data held by the digital copying machine 1 can be transferred to a mobile phone 2 and transmitted to another communication device through the mobile phone 2. This operation is an operation in the image transmission mode. In this image transmission mode, image data is transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the cellular phone 2 with the cellular phone 2 attached to the digital copying machine 1, and then the cellular phone 2 is detached from the digital copying machine 1. The image data can be transferred from the mobile phone 2 to another communication device.
[0083]
First, an operation of transferring image data of a document read by the scanner unit 11 to the mobile phone 2 in the mobile phone transmission mode will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0084]
In this operation, the operator instructs input from the operation panel 73 in advance to transmit the document image to another communication device using the mobile phone 2, that is, input for instructing the mobile phone transmission mode, and An input for specifying the destination is made. Thereafter, when the document is set on, for example, the RADF 22 and the print switch 95 is turned on (S1), the main CPU 65 causes the mobile phone 2 to attach the mounting portion 1a of the digital copying machine 1 based on the detection signal of the mobile phone mounting sensor 116. It is confirmed whether or not it is attached (S2).
[0085]
At this time, if the mobile phone 2 is not attached to the attachment portion 1a, it is confirmed whether or not the image transmission mode is set (S3). If the image transmission mode is set as a result of this confirmation, a display prompting the operator to mount the mobile phone 2 is performed by the liquid crystal display device 81 (S4). The digital copying machine 1 stands by until the mobile phone 2 is attached. The above display is performed by the display CPU 121 controlling the liquid crystal display device 81 based on a command from the main CPU 65. On the other hand, if the image transmission mode is not set in S3, it is determined that the copy mode for copying the document is set, and the operation is shifted to the operation.
[0086]
In S2, if the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a, it is determined whether or not the document is set on the RADF 22, for example (S5). If the result of this determination is that a document has not been set, a display prompting the user to set the document is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S6). When the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a in S2, the lock mechanism 111 is in the above-described locked state with respect to the mobile phone 2.
[0087]
If the document is set on the RADF 22 in S5, scanning of the document is started (S7). As a result, the image of the document is sequentially read, and the obtained image data is stored in the image memory 64 of the image processing unit 13 (S8).
[0088]
In this way, when the image data of all the originals is stored in the image memory 64 (S9), the main CPU 65 communicates with the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 so that the image data can be handled by the mobile phone 2. And the storage capacity of the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2 is confirmed (S10). As a result of this confirmation, when the memory 132 has a capacity to store image data to be transferred from the digital copying machine 1, the main CPU 65 transfers the image data stored in the image memory 64 to the mobile phone 2. Is converted into a format that can be handled (S11) and transferred to the mobile phone 2 (S12). At this time, a message indicating that image data is being transferred is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81. On the other hand, when the storage capacity of the memory 132 is insufficient with respect to the image data amount, the fact is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 and the processing is stopped.
[0089]
As described above, when the transfer of the image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2 is completed (S13), a message to that effect is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S14). At this time, the lock mechanism 111 is in the above-described unlocked state with respect to the mobile phone 2.
[0090]
Thereafter, when the cellular phone 2 is removed from the digital copying machine 1 by the operator based on the message (S15), the image data stored in the image memory 64 is deleted (S16).
[0091]
The operator can perform further processing on the image data stored in the CPU 131 by using various processing functions installed in the mobile phone 2 after removing the mobile phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1. It is possible to perform processing such as saving without deleting or transmitting to another communication device (image transmission mode).
[0092]
In the mobile phone transmission mode, the mobile phone 2 performs the operations shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. S21 to S28 shown in the figure are operations for receiving image data transferred from the digital copying machine 1 when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1. S29 to S39 are operations in which the cellular phone 2 is detached after receiving the image data from the digital copying machine 1 and transmits the image data to another communication device alone.
[0093]
10 and 11, the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 first determines whether or not the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 (S21). This determination is made based on, for example, whether the CPU 131 is communicable with the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1.
[0094]
When the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, the CPU 131 confirms the capacity of the memory 132 (S22), and information about the capacity of the memory 132 and the format of image data that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 Is transmitted to the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 (S23). Thereafter, the cellular phone 2 is in a state of receiving data from the digital copying machine 1 and stands by (S24).
[0095]
Next, when receiving image data from the digital copying machine 1 (S25), the CPU 131 stores the image data in the memory 132 (S26). At this time, the CPU 131 causes the display unit 133 to display a message with image data indicating that the image data is stored in the memory 132 (S27).
[0096]
Thereafter, when the cellular phone 2 is detached from the digital copying machine 1 by the operator (S28), the receiving operation of the image data from the digital copying machine 1 is terminated, and the process proceeds to a standby routine in the normal processing mode.
[0097]
If the mobile phone 2 is not attached to the digital copying machine 1 in S21 and the image transmission mode is set (S29), the image data transferred from the digital copying machine 1 in the memory 132 is stored. The presence or absence is confirmed (S30). As a result, if image data is stored in the memory 132, the CPU 131 sets transmission destination information indicating a transmission destination of the image data (S31).
[0098]
Thereafter, when a call instruction is input to the mobile phone 2 by the operation of the operator (S32), the mobile phone 2 starts a procedure for sending image data (S33).
[0099]
Next, when the connection with the transmission destination is completed (S34), the CPU 131 starts transmission of the image data stored in the memory 132 (S35). The transmission of the image data at this time is performed by a modulation circuit and a communication device (not shown) included in the mobile phone 2, the antenna 134 and the like.
[0100]
Thereafter, when the transmission of the image data is completed (S36), the CPU 131 cuts off the communication with the transmission destination (S37) and shifts to a standby routine in the normal processing mode. If the connection with the transmission destination cannot be established in S34, a re-transmission mode is set (S39), and the transmission procedure is continued until this is achieved.
[0101]
On the other hand, if the image data to be transmitted is not stored in the memory 132 in S30 (S38), the operation is terminated and the process proceeds to a standby routine in the normal processing mode.
[0102]
In the above operation, for example, if the mobile phone 2 that can form a digital image forming system together with the digital copying machine 1 arranged there is carried at the destination, the digital copying machine at the destination can be used without carrying the scanner device at the destination. 1 can be used to easily capture an image of a document into the mobile phone 2. Further, the image data captured by the mobile phone 2 can be transmitted from the mobile phone 2 to a transmission destination from an arbitrary place at an arbitrary time. That is, the image data can be transmitted to the transmission destination without being restricted by the position where the digital copying machine 1 is installed or the time when the digital copying machine 1 can be used.
[0103]
When image data is transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2, the image data is converted into a format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 on the digital copying machine 1 side and then transferred to the mobile phone 2. ing. Therefore, in the mobile phone 2 that is required to be downsized, the configuration for converting the image data is unnecessary, the configuration is simplified, and the amount of use of the memory 132 that stores the image data can be minimized. . Therefore, downsizing of the mobile phone 2 is not hindered.
[0104]
When image data is transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2, whether or not the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2 has a capacity to store image data to be transferred from the digital copying machine 1. When the memory 132 has a capacity capable of storing image data, the image data is transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2, while when the capacity is insufficient, the image data is transferred. Has been canceled. Therefore, useless transfer of image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2 and useless fetching of image data into the memory 132 can be prevented. In addition, troubles such as stoppage of the operation of the digital image forming system due to data over in the memory 132 can be prevented in advance.
[0105]
In the above example, the configuration in which the cellular phone 2 is detachable from the digital copying machine 1 has been described. However, the mobile phone 2 may be communicable with the digital copying machine 1 by, for example, infrared communication, and is not necessarily removable from the digital copying machine 1. The mobile phone 2 can face the digital copying machine 1 when it can communicate with the digital copying machine 1 including the case of infrared communication.
[0106]
[Reference Example 2]
Another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0107]
In this digital image forming system, instead of the operation in the image transmission mode, the operation in the mobile phone transmission mode shown in FIGS. 12 and 13 is possible. Other configurations are the same as those of the digital image forming system.
[0108]
In the operation in the mobile phone transmission mode, first, image data of a document read by the scanner unit 11 of the digital copying machine 1 with the mobile phone 2 mounted on the digital copying machine 1 is specified through the mobile phone 2. A transmission operation to the transmission destination is performed. At this time, if the mobile phone 2 cannot connect to another communication device for transmission, the image data stored in the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1 is transferred to the mobile phone 2, and the mobile phone 2 is stored in the second memory 132. As a result, the image data can then be transmitted from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination.
[0109]
Next, the operation in this cellular phone transmission mode will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0110]
For example, when the cellular phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 by the operator in the standby state in the normal processing mode (S41), the cellular phone transmission mode is set in the digital image forming system, and this state is set in the liquid crystal display device 81. It is displayed (S42).
[0111]
Thereafter, a document for transmission is set on, for example, the RADF 22 (S43), information indicating a transmission destination is input from the one-touch dial key 102 of the operation panel 73 (S44), and the print switch 95 is turned on (S45). The document is read by the unit 11 (S46). The image data obtained in this way is stored in the image memory 64 (S47). Thereafter, when the reading of the document is completed (S48), the lock mechanism 111 locks the mobile phone 2 (S49).
[0112]
Thereafter, a call for connection is made from the mobile phone 2 to the transmission destination (S50), and if the mobile phone 2 can be connected to the transmission destination (S51), the image stored in the image memory 64 is transmitted through the mobile phone 2. Data is sequentially transmitted to the other party (S52).
[0113]
Next, when the transmission of the image data is completed (S53), the mobile phone 2 is disconnected from the transmission destination (S54), and the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked from the mobile phone 2 (S55). Thereafter, a message indicating completion of image data transmission is displayed and the cellular phone transmission mode is canceled (S56).
[0114]
If the mobile phone 2 cannot be connected to the transmission destination in S51, the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 displays that fact on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S57). Further, the main CPU 65 displays on the liquid crystal display device 81 that the image data stored in the image memory 64 is to be transferred to the mobile phone 2 (S58). Further, the main CPU 65 confirms the data format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 and the capacity of the memory 132 by communicating with the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 (S59). If there is not enough capacity to store the image data in the memory 132, the process is stopped. If there is enough capacity to store the image data, the process is continued.
[0115]
Thereafter, the main CPU 65 converts the image data stored in the image memory 64 into a format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 (S60), and transfers it to the mobile phone 2 (S61). At this time, transmission destination information indicating the transmission destination is simultaneously transferred together with the image data. In addition, a message indicating that image data is being transferred is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81. The destination information sent to the mobile phone 2 is stored in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2. This destination information is called by operating the redial key 136 of the mobile phone 2. Therefore, when image data is transmitted from the mobile phone 2, the operator does not need to operate the dial key 135.
[0116]
Thus, when the transfer of the image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2 is completed (S62), a message indicating that is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S63). At this time, the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked.
[0117]
Thereafter, when the cellular phone 2 is removed from the digital copying machine 1 by the operator based on the message (S64), the image data stored in the image memory 64 is deleted (S65).
[0118]
The operator can perform further processing on the image data stored in the CPU 131 by using various processing functions installed in the mobile phone 2 after removing the mobile phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1. It is possible to perform processing such as saving without deleting or transmitting to another communication device (image transmission mode).
[0119]
In the above operation, even when image data cannot be transmitted to a specific destination at the installation position of the digital copying machine 1, it is possible to use the mobile phone 2 at any time from any place. Image data can be transmitted to the transmission destination. Therefore, the operator does not have to wait on the spot until the transmission of the image data is completed. Thereby, an operator who is chased by time, for example, a businessman, can use time effectively, for example, at a place where the digital copying machine 1 is installed.
[0120]
Further, in the above operation, when image data is transmitted from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination, it is only necessary to operate the redial key 136, and the operation of the fax number dial key 135 is unnecessary. Therefore, the operation for transmitting image data from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination is simple.
[0121]
If the fax machine of the digital copying machine 1 cannot be connected to a specific destination, the image data held by the digital copying machine 1 is transferred to the mobile phone 2 after the liquid crystal display device 81 informs the operator of that fact. Forwarding. Accordingly, the operator can confirm the processing of the image data. As a result, it is possible to prevent confusion in operation by the operator, and it is possible to surely prevent inconveniences such as transmission errors and non-transmissions of important original image data.
[0122]
When image data is transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2, transmission destination information indicating the transmission destination is also transferred at the same time, and the mobile phone 2 calls the transmission destination by operating the redial key 136. Can be done. Therefore, when image data is transmitted from the mobile phone 2, the operator does not need to operate the dial key 135, and the destination call operation is simple.
[0123]
[Reference Example 3]
Still another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0124]
The digital image forming system can operate in the mobile phone transmission mode shown in FIGS. Other configurations are the same as those of the digital image forming system.
[0125]
In this digital image forming system, the digital copying machine 1 includes a fax function unit. The fax function unit is a well-known one that is generally provided in the digital copying machine 1 and has a function of transmitting image data stored in the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1 to another communication device.
[0126]
In the operation in the mobile phone transmission mode, the image data of the original read by the scanner unit 11 of the digital copying machine 1 is transmitted to a specific transmission destination by the fax function unit included in the digital copying machine 1. At this time, if connection for transmission between the fax function unit and the other communication device of the transmission destination cannot be established, the image data stored in the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1 is transferred to the mobile phone 2, and the mobile phone 2 memory 132. As a result, the image data can then be transmitted from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination.
[0127]
Next, the operation in this cellular phone transmission mode will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0128]
In this operation, for example, in the standby state of the normal processing mode, first, an operator inputs a fax transmission command of a document, that is, a fax mode command to the operation panel 73 of the digital copying machine 1 by the mode switching key 101. (S71). Further, the transmission destination is input by the operator using the one-touch dial key 102, and a document for transmission is set on the RADF 22, for example (S72).
[0129]
Next, when the print switch 95 is turned on to instruct the start of the transmission operation (S73), reading of the transmission original by the scanner unit 11 is started (S74). The image data obtained in this way is stored in the image memory 64 (S75).
[0130]
When reading of all the originals is completed (S76), transmission for connection to the transmission destination is performed (S77). If connection to the transmission destination is established (S78), transmission of the image data stored in the image memory 64 is performed. Is started (S79). Thereafter, when the transmission of the image data is completed (S80), the digital copying machine 1 cuts off the communication line (S81), and shifts to a standby routine in the normal processing mode.
[0131]
If it is not possible to connect to the transmission destination in S78, the liquid crystal display device 81 displays a message to that effect (S82) and displays a message asking whether or not transmission by the mobile phone 2 is necessary (S83).
[0132]
Based on this display, the mode switching key 101 is operated (S84), and when the fax transmission mode is set (S85), the fax function unit is set to the re-send mode (S94), and the operation proceeds to S77 as follows. repeat.
[0133]
On the other hand, when the mobile phone transmission mode is set in S85, it is confirmed whether or not the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 (S86). Is performed by the liquid crystal display device 81 (S87).
[0134]
When the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, the lock mechanism 111 is locked. Further, the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 communicates with the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 to check the data format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 and the capacity of the memory 132 (S88). As described above, if there is insufficient capacity in the memory 132, the process is stopped. If there is no insufficient capacity, the process is continued.
[0135]
Thereafter, the main CPU 65 converts the image data stored in the image memory 64 into a format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 (S89), and transfers it to the mobile phone 2 (S90). At this time, transmission destination information indicating the transmission destination is simultaneously transferred together with the image data. In addition, a message indicating that image data is being transferred is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81. The destination information sent to the mobile phone 2 is stored in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2. This destination information is called by operating the redial key 136 of the mobile phone 2.
[0136]
Thus, when the transfer of the image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2 is completed (S91), a message indicating that is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S92). Thereafter, the image data stored in the image memory 64 is deleted (S93). Further, the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked. Thereby, the operator can remove the cellular phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1 and appropriately transmit the image data to the transmission destination.
[0137]
In the above operation, the mobile phone 2 is used even when image data cannot be transmitted to a specific destination using the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1 at the installation position of the digital copying machine 1. By doing so, it is possible to transmit image data from an arbitrary place to an address at an arbitrary time. Therefore, the operator does not have to wait on the spot until the transmission of the image data is completed. Thereby, an operator who is chased by time, for example, a businessman, can use time effectively, for example, at a place where the digital copying machine 1 is installed.
[0138]
Further, in the above operation, when image data is transmitted from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination, it is only necessary to operate the redial key 136, and the operation of the fax number dial key 135 is unnecessary. The operation for transmitting image data from the mobile phone 2 to a specific destination is simple.
[0139]
Further, when the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1 cannot connect to a specific destination, the liquid crystal display device 81 notifies the operator to that effect, and the operator transfers the image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2. It is possible to select whether the data is transferred or held in the digital copying machine 1 and transmitted from the digital copying machine 1 by re-transmission. Accordingly, the operator can confirm the process of processing the image data, and it is possible to reliably prevent inconveniences such as transmission errors and non-transmissions of important original image data. Also, depending on the operator's time allowance or the use position of the operator's digital image forming system, for example, whether it is his office or his / her destination, the image data is transmitted to the transmission destination by an optimum method. It can be performed.
[0140]
If the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1 cannot connect to the transmission destination, the operator is notified of this fact and the fax function unit tries to connect in the re-transmission mode or the image data of the cellular phone 2 is transferred. The operator is prompted to switch to transmission. As a result, it is possible to prevent the operator from being confused in operation, and to reliably prevent inconveniences such as transmission errors and non-transmissions of important original image data. In addition, the operator can select transmission of image data through an appropriate route at that time.
[0141]
[Reference Example 4]
Still another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0142]
In this digital image forming system, an operation in the image transmission mode shown in FIGS. 16 and 17 is possible. Other configurations are the same as those of the digital image forming system.
[0143]
In this digital image forming system, the digital copying machine 1 includes a fax function unit similar to that described in the third reference example.
[0144]
In the operation in the image transmission mode, when the image data of the original read by the scanner unit 11 of the digital copying machine 1 is transmitted to a specific transmission destination, the digital copying machine 1 sends the mobile phone 2 to the digital copying machine 1. Depending on whether or not the device is attached, it is automatically selected whether transmission by the mobile phone 2 or transmission by the fax function unit is performed.
[0145]
Next, the operation in this image transmission mode will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0146]
In this operation, for example, in the standby state of the normal processing mode, first, when the print switch 95 is turned on by the operator (S101), it is confirmed whether or not the digital copying machine 1 is set to the image transmission mode ( S102). The image transmission mode is set by the mode switching key 101.
[0147]
If the image transmission mode is set in S102, the transmission original is read (S103), and the obtained image data is stored in the image memory 64 (S104). Thereafter, when reading of all the originals is completed (S105), it is confirmed whether or not the mobile phone 2 is attached (S106).
[0148]
If the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 as a result of this confirmation, the lock mechanism 111 is locked. Further, the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 confirms the data format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 and the capacity of the memory 132 by communicating with the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 (S107). As described above, if there is insufficient capacity in the memory 132, the process is stopped. If there is no insufficient capacity, the process is continued.
[0149]
Thereafter, the main CPU 65 converts the image data stored in the image memory 64 into a format that can be handled by the mobile phone 2 (S108), and transfers it to the mobile phone 2 (S109). At this time, if the transmission destination information indicating the transmission destination of the image data is input at the time of setting the image transmission mode in S102, the transmission destination information is simultaneously transferred together with the image data. In addition, a message indicating that image data is being transferred is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81. The destination information sent to the mobile phone 2 is stored in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2. This destination information is called by operating the redial key 136 of the mobile phone 2.
[0150]
In this way, when the transfer of the image data from the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2 is completed (S110), a message indicating that is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S111). Thereafter, the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked.
[0151]
As a result, the operator can remove the cellular phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1, and when the cellular phone 2 is detached from the digital copying machine 1 (S112), the image data stored in the image memory 64 is erased. (S113). In this state, the operator can appropriately transmit image data from the mobile phone 2 to the transmission destination. When transmission destination information is input in advance to the mobile phone 2 at the time of image data transmission, transmission can be performed by operating the redial key 136. On the other hand, when transmission destination information has not been previously input to the mobile phone 2, a call is made by operating the dial key 135.
[0152]
On the other hand, if the mobile phone 2 is not attached in S106, if there is an input of destination information by the operator using the one-touch dial key 102 (S114), and if there is a call instruction (S115), the digital copying machine 1 starts the image data transmission procedure by its function (S116). At this time, if the connection with the transmission destination cannot be established (S117), the re-transmission mode is set (S123), the process returns to S116, and the subsequent operations are repeated.
[0153]
In S117, if the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1 can connect to the transmission destination, the image data is transmitted (S118). After the transmission of the image data is completed (S119), the digital copying machine 1 communicates with the transmission destination. Is blocked (S120).
[0154]
If the digital copying machine 1 is not set to the image transmission mode in S102, the scanner unit 11 reads the document (S121), and the image processing unit 13 performs a predetermined process on the obtained image data. Image processing is performed, and the image data is stored in the image memory 64 (S122). Next, the digital copying machine 1 reads the image data stored in the image memory 64, and outputs an image on the paper by the laser printer unit 12 (S123). Thereafter, the digital copying machine 1 ends the operation when the above-described processing for all the originals is completed (S124).
[0155]
In the above operation, depending on whether or not the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, image data is transmitted using the mobile phone 2 or an image using the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1. Data transmission is automatically selected. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the burden on the operation of the operator and to prevent the user from making a mode setting mistake in advance.
[0156]
Further, when image data is transmitted using the mobile phone 2, the image data can be transmitted from the mobile phone 2 at an arbitrary time to an addressee as described above.
[0157]
[Reference Example 5]
Still another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0158]
In this digital image forming system, the digital copying machine 1 includes a fax function unit as described above. In this digital image forming system, when the image data obtained by the scanner unit 11 of the digital copying machine 1 is transmitted to another communication device, when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, Transmission by the cellular phone 2 is automatically selected regardless of the fax function unit. This operation is shown in the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0159]
For example, in the standby state of the normal processing mode, when the cellular phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a of the digital copying machine 1 by the operator (S131), the cellular phone transmission mode is set in the digital image forming system. The state in which the mode is set is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S132). At this time, the liquid crystal display device 81 displays a message indicating that faxing by the mobile phone 2 is possible and prompting the user to set a document on the RADF 22. The mounting of the mobile phone 2 is detected by the mobile phone mounting sensors 116 and 116 as described above.
[0160]
Thereafter, a document for transmission is set on, for example, the RADF 22 (S133), information indicating the transmission destination is input from the one-touch dial key 102 of the operation panel 73 (S134), and the print switch 95 is turned on (S135). The document is read by the unit 11 (S136). The image data thus obtained is stored in the image memory 64 (S137). Thereafter, when all the originals have been read (S138), the lock mechanism 111 locks the mobile phone 2 (S139).
[0161]
Thereafter, a call for connection is made from the mobile phone 2 to the transmission destination (S140), and if the mobile phone 2 can connect to the transmission destination (S141), the image data stored in the image memory 64 is transferred to the image data communication. Modulated by the unit 72 and transferred to the mobile phone 2. The cellular phone 2 sequentially transmits the image data transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the other party (S142).
[0162]
Next, when the transmission of the image data is completed (S143), the mobile phone 2 is disconnected from the transmission destination (S144), and the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked from the mobile phone 2 (S145). Thereafter, the transmission completion display is performed on the liquid crystal display device 81, and the mobile phone transmission mode is canceled (S146). Based on the above display, the operator can remove the mobile phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1.
[0163]
In the above configuration, the image data transmission operation using the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1 and the image data transmission operation using the mobile phone 2 are performed in the image data transmission operation by the mobile phone 2. The operation is switched by a necessary operation, that is, an operation of mounting the cellular phone 2 on the digital copying machine 1. Therefore, the switching operation by the operator is simplified.
[0164]
In the operation of transmitting the image data held by the digital copying machine 1 to a specific destination through the mobile phone 2, the image data sequentially read from the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1 is transferred to the mobile phone 2. Since the data is sequentially transmitted to the transmission destination without being temporarily stored in the memory 132, a quick transmission is possible. In this operation, the memory 132 for storing image data in the mobile phone 2 is not necessary.
[0165]
Further, in the above configuration, if the digital copying machine 1 is installed in a place where a large number of people can use it, for example, a convenience store that provides a copy service or other stores, a mobile phone that is currently widely used. 2 makes it possible for a large number of people to utilize the convenient functions of the digital image forming system. This is particularly effective when the manuscript needs to be sent to a specific destination immediately.
[0166]
Further, when the digital image forming system is used, the cost required for transmitting the image data is borne by the user of the mobile phone 2, so that a complicated fee calculation and billing by using the digital copying machine 1 is required. It is unnecessary. Therefore, when the image data is transmitted, the digital copier 1 can be borrowed without hesitation even at the destination.
[0167]
In addition, it is desirable that communication between the mobile phone 2 and another communication device is always performed in a stable radio wave state when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1. Therefore, as shown in FIGS. 2 and 7, the cellular phone 2 is supported so that the antenna 134 is substantially vertical when mounted on the mounting portion 1 a of the digital copying machine 1. This is because the radio wave transmitted from the mobile phone 2 has an amplitude in the vertical direction. That is, in this digital image forming system, the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the digital copying machine 1 in a state where the radio wave transmitted from the antenna 134 can be successfully propagated to other communication devices that are transmission destinations. Has been.
[0168]
As shown in FIG. 20, when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, the mobile phone 2 is connected to the mobile phone power supply provided in the digital copying machine 1 via the connector 2a and the connector 72a. The unit 141 is connected. This prevents a situation in which the battery of the mobile phone 2 is consumed and a communication error occurs when image data is transmitted from the digital copying machine 1 to another communication device through the mobile phone 2. When a communication error occurs, the return operation becomes complicated, and the operator is forced to take a heavy burden at the destination. The power supply of the digital copying machine 1 may be connected to the mobile phone 2 during all the time when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 or only when image data is being transmitted by the mobile phone 2. Good. In the latter case, as shown in the figure, for example, a switch 142 made of a transistor or the like is provided in the power supply path between the mobile phone power supply unit 141 and the connector 72a, and this switch 142 is turned on / off by the main CPU 65. It is set as the structure controlled by.
[0169]
In connection between the digital copying machine 1 and the mobile phone 2, it is preferable to set a connection state in a communication environment appropriate for the mobile phone 2 in order to transmit good image data from the mobile phone 2. This communication environment is, for example, a standard according to the capability of the mobile phone 2, such as communication speed (2400 bps, 9600 bps, etc.), data format, communication protocol, power supply voltage, communication company or terminal manufacturer. That is, not only the mobile phone 2 but also a portable image communication device includes a communication device having a communication standard such as a digital method, an analog method, a PHS, and an optical communication method (IR), a communication device of a specific low power method, etc. There are various types of wireless communication devices, terminal devices with built-in communication devices, and various communication standards. For this purpose, the digital copying machine 1 recognizes the communication environment with the mobile phone 2 and sets it. As a method for recognizing the communication environment, for example, when a plurality of switches are arranged in parallel in the mounting unit 1a of the digital copying machine 1 and the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the mounting unit 1a, the mobile phone 2 is turned ON or OFF by mounting Various information related to the communication environment of the mobile phone 2 may be recognized by a combination of the plurality of switches. In this case, a convex block for pressing the switch is provided on the bottom of the mobile phone 2, for example, and the switch to be operated is selected depending on the position of the block. As another method, information relating to the communication environment is transferred as code information from the mobile phone 2 to the digital copying machine 1 by transmitting and receiving information between the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 and the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2. Also good.
[0170]
[Reference Example 6]
Still another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0171]
In this digital image forming system, user-specific phone number information stored in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2 is temporarily supplied to the digital copying machine 1, and an operator can store image data based on the phone number information. The destination can be set. This operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS.
[0172]
For example, in the standby state of the normal processing mode, when the cellular phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a of the digital copying machine 1 by the operator (S151), the cellular phone transmission mode is set in the digital image forming system, and this cellular phone transmission is performed. The state in which the mode is set is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S152). At this time, the liquid crystal display device 81 displays a message indicating that the user is urged to set a document on the RADF 22.
[0173]
Next, when a document for transmission is set, for example, in the RADF 22 (S153), terminal information stored in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2 is taken into the digital copying machine 1 via the image data communication unit 72. Is stored in the image memory 64 (S154). The terminal information is information used by the mobile phone 2 mainly including the telephone number information of the call partner.
[0174]
Next, the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 reads out the telephone number information from the terminal information and displays it on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S155). Based on this display, the transmission destination is designated by the operator, and thereby the transmission destination of the image data is set (S156). For example, in the display of the telephone number information, each telephone number is displayed with a display order number, and when specifying the transmission destination, the operator operates the numeric keypad 93 of the operation panel 73 to display the display order number. By inputting, the transmission destination is specified.
[0175]
Next, when the print switch 95 is turned on by the operator (S157), the scanner unit 11 reads the original (S158). At this time, the number of documents is counted by a counter, and the document size is detected by a document size sensor. These counter and document size sensor are well-known ones provided in general copying machines. Image data obtained by reading the document is stored in the image memory 64 (S159). Thereafter, when all the originals have been read (S160), the lock mechanism 111 locks the mobile phone 2 (S161).
[0176]
Next, the main CPU 65 displays information related to communication on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S162). This information includes the number and size of documents to be transmitted obtained by the counter and the document size sensor, a transmission destination telephone number, a transmission destination name, and a communication status. By performing such display, the operator can easily grasp the communication status.
[0177]
Next, a call for connection is made from the mobile phone 2 to the transmission destination (S163), and if the mobile phone 2 can connect to the transmission destination (S164), the image data stored in the image memory 64 is transferred to the mobile phone. 2 is transferred. The cellular phone 2 sequentially transmits the image data transferred from the digital copying machine 1 to the other party (S165).
[0178]
Next, when the transmission of the image data is completed (S166), the mobile phone 2 cuts off the connection with the transmission destination (S167). In the digital copying machine 1, the main CPU 65 causes the scanner unit 11 to set the number of transmission originals stored in the image memory 64, the original size, the transmission destination, the transmission time, the time required for transmission, and the transmission image data. The transmission information such as a copy is printed out. Alternatively, the main CPU 65 transfers the transmission information stored in the image memory 64 to the mobile phone 2 (S168). When the cellular phone 2 receives the information from the digital copying machine 1, it stores it in the memory 132.
[0179]
Further, the information temporarily stored in the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1, that is, the terminal information, the transmission information, the image data of the transmission original, and the like are deleted (S169). This operation is similarly performed when the mobile phone transmission mode is canceled for some reason such as a transmission problem during transmission.
[0180]
Next, the lock mechanism 111 is unlocked (S170). Thereafter, the transmission completion display is performed on the liquid crystal display device 81, and the mobile phone transmission mode is canceled (S171). Based on the above display, the operator can remove the mobile phone 2 from the digital copying machine 1.
[0181]
In the operation of S156, the transmission destination is set based on the telephone number information from the mobile phone 2, but it is also possible to set the transmission destination by the fax function unit of the digital copying machine 1. In this case, the one-touch dial key 102 or the numeric keypad 93 on the operation panel 73 is operated. When the numeric keypad 93 is operated, individual numbers constituting the telephone number are input. In this case, the telephone number information corresponding to the operation of the numeric keypad 93 or the one-touch dial key 102 is transferred from the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 to the mobile phone 2, and the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 is based on the telephone number information. Connect with the destination.
[0182]
As described above, in this digital image forming system, not only based on the telephone number information from the mobile phone 2 but also to the transmission destination by operating the numeric keypad 93 or the one-touch dial key 102 of the digital copying machine 1. Therefore, even if the user is unfamiliar with the operation, there is no confusion and the operability is good.
[0183]
Further, as shown in the operation of S168, after the completion of the transmission of the image data to the transmission destination, the digital copying machine 1 causes the number of transmission originals, the original size, the transmission destination, the transmission time, the time required for transmission, and the transmission. Since transmission information such as a part of the image data is printed out, even when the image data is transmitted using the digital copier 1 arranged at the destination, the operator can transmit the transmission information at hand. A record can be obtained. Therefore, it becomes easy to manage transmission records after the operator returns to the company, for example.
[0184]
In the digital copying machine 1, transmission information when transmission is performed using the fax function unit and transmission information when transmission is performed using the mobile phone 2 are managed separately. Yes. This is due to the following reason.
[0185]
In order to grasp the transmission / reception status, the facsimile function unit of the digital copying machine 1 is usually equipped with a management function for storing information related to transmission / reception and printing out the information as necessary. With this management function, when transmission information when transmission is performed using the mobile phone 2 is stored, this transmission information is confused with transmission information when transmission is performed using the fax function unit, It is difficult to confirm both pieces of transmission information. Therefore, the above transmission information is distinguished and managed to solve this problem.
[0186]
Further, the transmission information when transmission is performed using the cellular phone 2 is printed out from the digital copying machine 1 or transferred to the cellular phone 2 and then erased from the image memory 64 of the digital copying machine 1. It has become so. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent the personal information of the operator from remaining on the external apparatus, that is, the digital copying machine 1, and being abused.
[0187]
In the digital image forming system, as shown in the operation of S168, when transmission is performed using the mobile phone 2, the transmission information held by the digital copying machine 1 can be transferred to the mobile phone 2. It can be done. Therefore, in the mobile phone 2, the transmission information is stored in the memory 132, and can be displayed on the display unit 133 as necessary. This facilitates confirmation and management of transmission records.
[0188]
[Reference Example 7]
Still another reference example of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS.
[0189]
The digital copying machine 1 can transmit / receive image data to / from an external device through the image data communication unit 72 shown in FIG. When the mobile phone 2 is connected to the image data communication unit 72 as an external device, the image data transferred from the mobile phone 2 is taken into the image memory 64 through processing in the image processing unit 13. This image data can be printed out on a recording sheet by being read by the main CPU 65 and supplied to the laser printer unit 12. As described above, when the mobile phone 2 and the digital copying machine 1 are in communication, the lock mechanism 111 is locked and the mobile phone 2 is fixed to the digital copying machine 1.
[0190]
Next, an operation in which image data received by the mobile phone 2 is transferred to the digital copying machine 1 and printed out by the digital copying machine 1 will be described with reference to flowcharts of FIGS. 23 and 24 show the operation of the mobile phone 2, and FIGS. 25 and 26 show the operation of the digital copying machine 1.
[0191]
First, the operation on the mobile phone 2 side will be described. 23 and 24, when the power is turned on, the mobile phone 2 enters a communication standby state. At this time, the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 is instructed by the operator to make a call to a specific partner (S181), whether there is an incoming call (S182), or whether the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 Whether or not (S183) is constantly monitored.
[0192]
Here, when a predetermined call instruction is issued from the operator to make a call to a specific party (S181), the mobile phone 2 enters the call mode. Next, the telephone number information of a specific destination is set (S184), and when the call key is operated (S185), the mobile phone 2 makes a call to the specified destination (S186). When communication with the other party is connected, a call becomes possible (S187). Thereafter, when the end key is operated, the communication state is interrupted (S188), and a standby state is entered.
[0193]
Further, when there is a call instruction from the other party, that is, there is an incoming call, the incoming call mode is set (S182), and it is confirmed whether the call is by voice or incoming image data (S189). If it is an incoming call by voice, the operator is called by the ringing tone (S192), and when the operator operates the call key (S193), the call becomes possible (S194). Thereafter, when the end key is operated, the communication state is interrupted (S195), and a standby state is entered.
[0194]
On the other hand, if the image data is received in S189, the CPU 131 receives the image data and stores it in the memory 132 (S190). Further, in order to notify the operator of the incoming image data, a message to that effect is displayed on the display 133 (S191). Then, it will be in a standby state. In addition, as a method for transmitting the incoming image data, a specific notification sound may be generated in addition to the above display.
[0195]
On the mobile phone 2, when image data is received, a message indicating that is displayed on the display unit 133. When the incoming call is confirmed by this display, the operator goes to the place where the digital copying machine 1 is installed with the mobile phone 2 and attaches the mobile phone 2 to the mounting portion 1 a of the digital copying machine 1. As a result, the mobile phone 2 enters the wearing mode (S183). The transition to the mounting mode is performed, for example, when the mounting of the mobile phone 2 to the digital copying machine 1 is detected by the mobile phone mounting sensors 116 and 116 and information indicating this is transmitted from the main CPU 65 to the CPU 131. .
[0196]
When the operator enters an instruction to transfer image data from the mobile phone 2 to the digital copying machine 1 after entering the mounting mode (S196), the CPU 131 transfers the image data stored in the memory 132 to the digital copying machine 1. (S197). The image data is taken into the digital copying machine 1 through the image data communication unit 72 and stored in the image memory 64. Thereafter, if there is an instruction to delete the image data (S198), the digital copying machine 1 deletes the image data (S199) and enters a standby state.
[0197]
On the other hand, if there is a request for transferring various setting information in S196, the information is transferred in response to the request (S200), and then the standby state is entered.
[0198]
Next, the operation on the digital copying machine 1 side will be described. 25 and 26, when the power is turned on, the digital copying machine 1 starts warming up (S211), and when this is completed, the digital copying machine 1 enters a standby state (S212). At this time, whether the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 operates as a copy mode (S213), operates as a fax mode (S214), or operates as a printer mode for outputting data transferred from an external device (S215). ) Or the mobile phone wearing mode is monitored (S216). These operation modes are set according to various input conditions to the digital copying machine 1.
[0199]
When the copy mode is set by operating the operation panel 73 (S213), the operator then operates the operation panel 73 to set the number of copies, copy magnification, copy density, and the like (S217). Next, after the document is set on the RADF 22, for example, when the print switch 95 is turned on (S218), copying is performed (S219), and after the copying is completed (S220), a standby state is entered.
[0200]
When the fax mode is set (S214) and the fax transmission is set (S221), the operator inputs the destination telephone number using the numeric keypad 93, for example, and specifies the clearness of the image. The transmission mode to be set is set (S222).
[0201]
Next, when the document is set on, for example, the RADF 22 and the transmission button is turned on (S223), the document is read by the scanner unit 11 (S224), and the image data of the document is transmitted to the transmission destination (S225). . Thereafter, when the transmission is completed (S226), the digital copying machine 1 enters a standby state.
[0202]
On the other hand, if it is a fax reception in S221, the main CPU 65 stores the transmitted image data in the image memory 64 (S227). When the laser printer unit 12 is ready to record the image data, that is, to print it out (S228), the image data is printed out (S229). When fax reception processing is completed in this way (S230), the digital copying machine 1 enters a standby state.
[0203]
The digital copying machine 1 enters a printer mode when a specific control signal is input to an external interface (not shown) (S215). When the image data transmitted from an external device, for example, a word processor is received (S231), the main CPU 65 stores the transmitted image data in the image memory 64. Thereafter, when the laser printer unit 12 is ready to print out the image data (S232), the image data is printed out (S233). When the processing of the received image data is completed in this way (S234), the digital copying machine 1 enters a standby state.
[0204]
Further, when the cellular phone 2 is mounted on the mounting portion 1a of the digital copying machine 1, and this state is detected by the cellular phone mounting sensors 116 and 116, the mobile phone mounting mode is set (S216).
[0205]
When the mobile phone wearing mode is set, the digital copying machine 1 is in a state of receiving image data from the mobile phone 2 (S235). When image data from the mobile phone 2 is received (S236), the image data is stored in the image memory 64 while being processed by the image processing unit 13 as necessary (S237). The processing in the image processing unit 13 may be performed when the image data is stored in the image memory 64 or when the image data is read from the image memory 64 for printout.
[0206]
After that, the main CPU 65 confirms the image size in the image data, and confirms the presence or absence of a recording sheet of an appropriate size corresponding to the size, that is, a sheet (S238). If there is a sheet of an appropriate size (S239), the sheet is selected (S240), and the received image data is printed out (S241). In this case, the main CPU 65 transfers the image data stored in the image memory 64 to the laser printer unit 12 in accordance with the operation of the laser printer unit 12. In S239, if there is no paper of an appropriate size, the appropriate size is displayed on the liquid crystal display device 81 (S242), and after waiting for the operator to set the paper, the operations from S240 are performed.
[0207]
As described above, in this digital image forming system, even when the operator is out, if the image data is transmitted to the mobile phone 2 carried by the operator, the operator is notified of the arrival of the image data, and the operation If the person attaches the mobile phone 2 to the digital copying machine 1 at the destination, the image data can be printed out from the digital copying machine 1. Thereby, the operator can confirm the transmitted information.
[0208]
Therefore, even when information that cannot be transmitted by telephone needs to be transmitted to the operator when the operator is out, the information can be transmitted well. Of course, it is not necessary to always carry a device for printing out image data.
[0209]
In addition, when the format of the image data transferred from the mobile phone 2 is different from the data format handled by the laser printer unit 12, the image processing unit 13 converts the format of the image data so as to conform to this format. To do. Thereby, the laser printer unit 12 can appropriately print out the image data and obtain a good image.
[0210]
In S239, the appropriate size paper is selected by developing the image data in the image memory 64 in S237 and checking the image size in S238 based on the size of the image data at the time of development. . Accordingly, it is possible to select an appropriate size sheet.
[0211]
That is, there are various types of image data transferred from the mobile phone 2. Accordingly, an accurate image size can be determined only after, for example, decompression of compressed image data, development from character code data, or the like. For this reason, when a sheet is selected based on the instructed sheet size information and image data is recorded, the image may be lost from the sheet.
[0212]
In the digital copying machine 1, the image data stored in the image memory 64 may be erased when the printout of the image data is completed. Similarly, in the cellular phone 2, after the image data to be printed out is transferred to the digital copying machine 1, the transferred image data may be deleted from the memory 132. This operation is effective in effectively utilizing the limited storage capacity, particularly when performed on the mobile phone 2 having a small storage capacity. In addition to erasing the image data uniformly, it may be possible to select to save the image data as necessary. When image data is stored in the digital copying machine 1 or the mobile phone 2 without being erased, the image data can be processed and used, for example.
[0213]
In this digital image forming system, the digital copying machine 1 uses a function of printing out image data transferred from the mobile phone 2, and various setting information set in the mobile phone 2 and the mobile phone 2 The registered telephone number information or the like is transferred to the digital copying machine 1 and can be printed out by the digital copying machine 1. The above information is normally stored as code information in the mobile phone 2. Therefore, in the digital copying machine 1, when the code information is printed out, the code information is expanded and printed out using a function for converting the code information into dot information representing characters in the printer mode.
[0214]
The mobile phone 2 has a configuration for specifying information to be printed out in the digital copying machine 1. In this configuration, for example, when the input key 137 of the mobile phone 2 is operated, the information set or registered in the mobile phone 2 is called from the memory 132 by the CPU 131 and displayed on the display unit 133. The information is transferred to the digital copying machine 1 when another selection key is operated.
[0215]
Embodiment 1 of the Invention
An embodiment of the present invention will be described below with reference to FIGS. In the present embodiment, members having the same functions as those described in each of the reference examples are given the same reference numerals, and descriptions thereof are omitted.
[0216]
This digital image forming system has a configuration shown in FIG. That is, when the communication management center 151 as a relay device (communication management device) for managing communication of the mobile phone 2 or the like receives image data to be transmitted to a specific mobile phone 2, the image data is transferred to a CPU (control means). ) 152 is stored in the memory (storage means) 153, and a message that image data to be transmitted exists is transmitted to the destination mobile phone 2. Based on this message, the operator sets the mobile phone 2 to the nearest digital copier 1. Tsu After that, the cellular phone 2 receives the image data transmitted from the communication management center 151, and the digital copying machine 1 prints out the received image data.
[0217]
Next, this operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. 28 shows the operation on the communication management center 151 side, and FIGS. 29 and 30 show the operation on the mobile phone 2 and the digital copying machine 1 side.
[0218]
In FIG. 28, when the communication management center 151 receives image data to be transmitted to a specific mobile phone 2 (S251), the image data and destination information are stored in the memory 153 (S252). After that, a message that there is image data to be transmitted exists is transmitted to the destination mobile phone 2 (S253).
[0219]
Thereafter, if there is a request for transmission of image data from the mobile phone 2 in response to the message (S254), the communication management center 151 sends the requested phone number of the mobile phone 2 and the destination information stored earlier. Based on the above, the image data to be transmitted is confirmed (S255).
[0220]
As a result of this confirmation, if there is image data to be transmitted (S256), the image data is transmitted to the mobile phone 2 (S257). Thereafter, if the transmission of the image data is completed (S258), it is confirmed whether there is an instruction to delete the image data (S259). If there is an instruction to delete, the transmitted image data is deleted from the memory 153 (S260). ). The deletion instruction is set in advance in the communication management center 151 or is set in response to a request from the mobile phone 2.
[0221]
On the other hand, if there is no image data to be transmitted in S256, a message indicating that there is no image data to be transmitted is transmitted to the mobile phone 2 (S261), and the operation is terminated.
[0222]
Next, operations of the mobile phone 2 and the digital copying machine 1 will be described. 29 and 30, the mobile phone 2 enters a standby state when the power is turned on. At this time, the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 has received a message from the communication management center 151 (S271), whether the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 (S272), and a telephone number for calling is set. It is constantly monitored (S273).
[0223]
If a message indicating that there is image data to be transmitted exists from the communication management center 151 (S271), the message is displayed on the display unit 133 (S274). Alternatively, the operator is notified that there is image data to be transmitted by a specific notification sound.
[0224]
Thereafter, when the cellular phone 2 is attached to the nearest digital copying machine 1 by the operator who confirmed the message, the cellular phone 2 makes a transmission request for image data to the communication management center 151.
[0225]
In this case, that is, when the mobile phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1 (S272) and the above message is displayed on the display unit 133 (S275), a call for connection to the communication management center 151 is made. (S276). When the connection of the communication management center 151 is completed (S277), the CPU 131 transmits the telephone number information of the mobile phone 2 (S278), and further makes a transmission request for image data (S279).
[0226]
Thereafter, when image data is transmitted from the communication management center 151 in response to the transmission request, the mobile phone 2 receives the image data (S280) and transfers it to the digital copying machine 1. The digital copying machine 1 receiving the image data from the mobile phone 2 prints out the image data by the laser printer unit 12 (S281). Thereafter, when the printout of the image data is completed (S282), the mobile phone 2 cuts off communication with the communication management center 151 (S283), and enters a standby state.
[0227]
On the other hand, in S275, the cellular phone 2 is attached to the digital copying machine 1, but if the message is not displayed on the display unit 133, the document transmission mode is set in the cellular phone 2 and the digital copying machine 1 (S284). ). In this case, a transmission original is set in the digital copying machine 1 (S285), a transmission destination is set (S286), and transmission for connection to the transmission destination is performed (S287). Thereafter, when the connection between the mobile phone 2 and the transmission destination is completed (S288), the transmission original is read by the scanner unit 11 of the digital copying machine 1 (S289), and the image data is transmitted (S290). Thereafter, when the transmission is completed (S291), the cellular phone 2 cuts off communication with the transmission destination (S292) and enters a standby state.
[0228]
Further, in the cellular phone 2, a telephone number is set for a call (S273), and when the call key is turned on (S293), a call is made to the telephone number (S294). When the connection is completed (S295), a call is performed (S296). Thereafter, when the call end key is operated (S297), the mobile phone 2 communicates with the call destination (S298).
[0229]
As described above, in this digital image forming system, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management center 151, and the mobile phone 2 can request transfer of image data as necessary. . Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2. Thereby, the storage capacity of the memory 132 can be used effectively for other purposes.
[0230]
The transmission of the image data from the communication management center 151 to the mobile phone 2 is performed based on the operation of mounting the mobile phone 2 on the digital copying machine 1 by the operator. Since it is performed when it is determined that the mobile phone 2 can be accepted, communication troubles due to poor preparation on the mobile phone 2 side are less likely to occur. In this case, the input means is constituted by the mobile phone wearing sensors 116 and 116.
[0231]
[ Reference Example 8 ]
Of the present invention Other reference examples Is described below based on FIG. 31 and FIG.
[0232]
This digital image forming system has the configuration shown in FIG. 27. The mobile phone 2 receives the image data transmitted from the communication management center 151 and temporarily stores it in the memory 132. Thereafter, the mobile phone 2 is connected to the digital copying machine. The image data is printed out from the digital copying machine 1 when it is attached to the printer 1.
[0233]
Next, this operation will be described with reference to the flowcharts of FIGS. FIG. 31 and FIG. 32 show the operation on the mobile phone 2 and the digital copying machine 1 side, and the operation on the communication management center 151 side is the same as that shown in FIG.
[0234]
31 and 32, the mobile phone 2 enters a standby state when the power is turned on. At this time, whether the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 has received a message from the communication management center 151 (S301), whether a transmission request mode for requesting transmission of image data to the communication management center 151 is set (S302), mobile phone 2 is installed in the digital copying machine 1 (S303) and whether a telephone number for a call is set (S304) is constantly monitored.
[0235]
When a message indicating that there is image data to be transmitted exists from the communication management center 151 (S301), the message is displayed on the display unit 133 (S305). Alternatively, the operator is notified that there is image data to be transmitted by a specific notification sound.
[0236]
Thereafter, when the transmission request mode is set in the mobile phone 2 by the operator who confirmed the message (S302), the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 makes a call for communication with the communication management center 151 (S306). . The transmission request mode is set by operating the input key 137, for example. When the connection of the communication management center 151 is completed (S307), the CPU 131 transmits the telephone number information of the mobile phone 2 (S308), and further requests transmission of image data (S309).
[0237]
Thereafter, when image data is transmitted from the communication management center 151 in response to the transmission request, the mobile phone 2 receives the image data (S310), and the CPU 131 stores the image data in the memory 132 (S311). . Thereafter, when the reception of the image data is completed (S312), the mobile phone 2 cuts off communication with the communication management center 151 (S313) and enters a standby state.
[0238]
Thereafter, when the mobile phone 2 is mounted on the digital copying machine 1 and the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2 stores image data (S314), the mobile phone 2 enters the image data transfer mode and is stored in the memory 132. The image data can be transferred to the digital copying machine 1 (S315).
[0239]
Next, the state of the digital copying machine 1 is confirmed by communication between the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 and the main CPU 65 of the digital copying machine 1 (S316), and the digital copying machine 1 can communicate with the mobile phone 2. If there is (S317), the CPU 131 of the mobile phone 2 transfers the image data to the digital copying machine 1 (S318). Thereafter, when the transfer of the image data is completed (S319), the cellular phone 2 cuts off the communication with the digital copying machine 1 (S320) and enters a standby state.
[0240]
The image data transferred to the digital copying machine 1 is then printed out by the laser printer unit 12 of the digital copying machine 1. Also, the operations of S321 to S335 shown in FIG. 32 are the same as the operations of S284 to S298 shown in FIG.
[0241]
As described above, in this digital image forming system, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management center 151, and the mobile phone 2 can request transfer of image data as necessary. . Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the memory 132 of the mobile phone 2. Thereby, the storage capacity of the memory 132 can be used effectively for other purposes.
[0242]
Further, since the image data transferred from the communication management center 151 to the mobile phone 2 is temporarily stored in the memory 132, the operator can communicate the mobile phone 2 with the digital copying machine 1 at an appropriate time, that is, in a mounted state. Thus, a visualized image of the image data can be obtained.
[0243]
Further, since the transmission of the image data from the communication management center 151 to the mobile phone 2 is performed based on the operation of the input key 137 by the operator, for example, it is determined that the operator can accept the image data in the mobile phone 2. Therefore, communication troubles caused by poor preparation on the mobile phone 2 side are less likely to occur.
[0244]
The digital image forming system of the present invention can be carried independently of a digital image forming apparatus such as a digital copying machine and the digital image forming apparatus, and can communicate with the digital image forming apparatus. A portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the communication apparatus, for example, a mobile phone, wherein the digital image forming apparatus reads an image of a document and converts the image data into image data; The image data obtained from the storage means and the image data generation means is stored in the first storage means, while the image data stored in the first storage means is read and transferred to the portable image communication apparatus. A first control unit, wherein the portable image communication apparatus includes a second storage unit that stores image data and the digital image forming apparatus. A second control unit that stores the received image data in the second storage unit and reads the image data stored in the second storage unit and transmits the read image data to the other communication device; It is good.
[0245]
In this case, in the digital image forming apparatus, the image data obtained from the image data generation unit is stored in the first storage unit by the first control unit. The image data stored in the first storage means is read by the first control means and transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus. In the portable image communication apparatus, the image data transmitted from the digital image forming apparatus is stored in the second storage means by the second control means. Further, the image data stored in the second storage means is read out by the second control means and transmitted to other communication devices.
[0246]
Accordingly, for example, if a portable image communication device that can constitute a digital image forming system together with a digital image forming device disposed there, for example, a mobile phone, is carried at the destination, the scanner device is not carried at the destination, and Even when the digital image forming apparatus does not have a fax function, an image of a document can be easily captured as image data into a portable image communication apparatus using the digital image forming apparatus at the destination. Further, the image data captured by the portable image communication apparatus can be transmitted from any place to the transmission destination.
[0247]
In addition, if a digital image forming apparatus is installed in a place where a large number of people can use it, for example, a convenience store that provides a copy service or other stores, it is currently widely used as a portable image communication apparatus. Many people can utilize the convenient functions of the digital image forming system using a mobile phone. This is particularly effective when the manuscript needs to be sent to a specific destination immediately.
[0248]
In addition, when using the digital image forming system at a destination, the cost required for transmission of image data is, for example, that of a user of a portable image communication apparatus that has a communication contract with a communication company, for example, a telephone company, for example, a mobile phone user Since this is a burden, it is not necessary to calculate and charge a complicated fee by using a portable image communication apparatus.
[0249]
In the digital image forming system of the present invention, the digital image forming apparatus further includes an image transmitting unit capable of transmitting image data to the other communication device via a communication line, and the first control unit includes: When the image transmission unit is in a state in which image data cannot be transmitted to the other communication device and the digital image forming device and the portable image communication device are in a communicable state, the first storage unit May be read out and transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus.
[0250]
In this case, when the image transmission means of the digital image forming apparatus cannot transmit image data to another communication apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus are communicable, the digital image The image data stored in the first storage means of the forming apparatus is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus and stored in the second storage means.
[0251]
Therefore, even when the operator cannot communicate with a specific destination using the image transmission means of the digital image forming apparatus, the operator does not have to wait on the spot, and the portable image communication apparatus is installed. It can be used to send image data from any place to any destination at any time. Therefore, an operator such as a businessman who is busy with time does not need to worry about the time required from the transmission setting to the completion, and can use the time effectively at the destination.
[0252]
The digital image forming system of the present invention can be carried independently of the digital image forming apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus, can communicate with the digital image forming apparatus, and can communicate with other communication apparatuses. A portable image communication apparatus, wherein the digital image forming apparatus reads an image of a document and converts it into image data, a first storage means for storing image data, and the image data generation means First control means for reading the image data stored in the first storage means and transferring the image data obtained from the first storage means to the portable image communication device; Visualizing means for visualizing the image data stored in the storage means, and the portable image communication device is transmitted from the digital image forming device. The image data has been Bei a second control means for transmitting to the other communication device e It is good also as composition which has.
[0253]
In this case, in the digital image forming apparatus, the image data obtained from the image data generation unit is stored in the first storage unit by the first control unit. The image data stored in the first storage means is read by the first control means and transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus. In the portable image communication apparatus, the image data transmitted from the digital image forming apparatus is transmitted to the other communication apparatus by the second control unit.
[0254]
Accordingly, for example, if a portable image communication device that can constitute a digital image forming system together with a digital image forming device disposed there, for example, a mobile phone, is carried at the destination, the scanner device is not carried at the destination, and Even when the digital image forming apparatus does not have a fax function, the digital image forming apparatus can be used to easily transmit image data of a document to another communication apparatus.
[0255]
In addition, if a digital image forming apparatus is installed in a place where a large number of people can use it, for example, a convenience store that provides a copy service or other stores, it is currently widely used as a portable image communication apparatus. Many people can utilize the convenient functions of the digital image forming system using a mobile phone. This is particularly effective when the manuscript needs to be sent to a specific destination immediately.
[0256]
In addition, when using the digital image forming system at a destination, the cost required for transmission of image data is, for example, that of a user of a portable image communication apparatus that has a communication contract with a communication company, for example, a telephone company, for example, a mobile phone user Since this is a burden, it is not necessary to calculate and charge a complicated fee by using a portable image communication apparatus.
[0257]
In the digital image forming system of the present invention, the portable image communication apparatus further includes a second storage unit that stores image data, and the first control unit includes at least the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image. When the communication device is in a communicable state, the image data stored in the first storage means is sequentially read out and transmitted to the portable image communication device, and the second control means is the digital image Sent from the digital image forming apparatus when the forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus are communicable and the portable image communication apparatus and the other communication apparatus are communicable While the image data is sequentially transmitted to the other communication device, the digital image forming device and the portable image communication device are in a communicable state, and When the portable image communication apparatus is a communication disabled state with said other communication apparatus, the image data transmitted from the digital image forming apparatus may be one which is stored in the second storage means.
[0258]
In this case, when the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus are communicable and the portable image communication apparatus and another communication apparatus are communicable, the image stored in the first storage means Data is sequentially read and transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus. This image data is sequentially transmitted to other communication devices.
[0259]
On the other hand, when the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus are communicable and the portable image communication apparatus and another communication apparatus are incapable of communication, the image data stored in the first storage means Are sequentially read and transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus. This image data is stored in the second storage means.
[0260]
Thus, for example, when the user tries to transmit image data obtained from the digital image forming apparatus disposed there to another communication apparatus via the portable image communication apparatus that is carried there, the portable image When the communication device and another communication device are in a communication disabled state, the image data stored in the first storage unit of the digital image forming device is sequentially read and stored in the second storage unit of the portable image communication device. The
[0261]
As a result, even if the operator cannot communicate with the transmission destination, the operator does not have to wait on the spot and can use the portable image communication device to image from any place at any time. Data can be sent to the destination. Therefore, an operator such as a businessman who is busy with time can use the time effectively at the destination.
[0262]
In the digital image forming system of the present invention, the digital image forming apparatus further includes a display unit for displaying information and an input unit for input operation by an operator, and the second control unit includes a portable image. The telephone number information indicating the destination telephone number registered in the communication apparatus is transferred to the digital image forming apparatus, and the first control means transfers the telephone number transferred from the portable image communication apparatus. Information is displayed on the display means, and designation information indicating the telephone number information designated by the operation of the input means is transmitted to the portable image communication device, and the second control means further includes: The image data transferred from the digital image forming apparatus may be transmitted to the transmission destination indicated by the designation information.
[0263]
In this case, when transmitting image data to a transmission destination registered in advance in the portable image communication apparatus, the operator only has to specify the telephone number information using the input means of the digital image forming apparatus. Therefore, it is possible to reduce the burden of operation by the operator when transmitting image data.
[0264]
In the digital image forming system of the present invention, the first control means stores the portable image stored in the first storage means after the communication state between the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus is released. Information related to the image data transmitted through the communication device may be deleted.
[0265]
In this case, after the communication state between the digital image forming apparatus and the portable image communication apparatus is cancelled, the information related to the image data transmitted through the portable image communication apparatus stored in the first storage unit is deleted. Accordingly, it is possible to prevent such information, for example, personal information of the operator, from remaining on the external apparatus, that is, the digital image forming apparatus, and being abused.
[0266]
In the digital image forming system of the present invention, the portable image communication apparatus further includes a second storage unit, and the first control unit stores information about the image data transmitted through the portable image communication apparatus, The information may be transferred to a portable image communication apparatus, and the second control unit may store information on the image data transferred from the digital image forming apparatus in a second storage unit.
[0267]
In this case, since the information regarding the image data transmitted through the portable image communication device is stored in the second storage unit of the portable image communication device, the operator can store this information on the display device of the portable image communication device, for example. By displaying it, the transmission status of the image data can be easily confirmed. Therefore, management of the image data transmission operation is easy.
[0268]
The digital image forming system of the present invention can be carried independently of the digital image forming apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus, can communicate with the digital image forming apparatus, and can communicate with other communication apparatuses. A portable image communication device, wherein the portable image communication device stores image data in the storage device, and stores the image data transmitted from the other communication device in the storage device. Control means for reading out image data stored in the means and transmitting it to the digital image forming apparatus, wherein the digital image forming apparatus visualizes the image data, and the portable The image processing apparatus may include a control unit that supplies image data transmitted from the image communication apparatus to the visualizing unit.
[0269]
In this case, when image data is transmitted from another communication device to the portable image communication device, the image data is stored in the storage unit of the portable image communication device. The image data can be read from the storage means and transmitted to the digital image forming apparatus when the portable image communication apparatus is ready to communicate with the digital image forming apparatus. The image data transmitted to the digital image forming apparatus is supplied to the visualizing means and visualized.
[0270]
In this digital image forming system, such an operation is possible. Therefore, even if the operator of the portable image communication apparatus, that is, the other party who wants to transmit image data is out, for example, is not in a specific place. If the other party carries a portable image communication device, the image data can be delivered reliably. The image data can be visualized and confirmed on the spot when the portable image communication apparatus is in a communicable state with the nearest digital image forming apparatus constituting the digital image forming system. Can do. Therefore, according to the present digital image forming system, it is possible to promptly and surely deliver information related to urgent matters that are insufficient for telephone calls.
[0271]
Further, the digital image forming system of the present invention may be configured such that the portable image communication apparatus includes notification means for notifying that the storage means stores the image data.
[0272]
In this case, the user of the portable image communication apparatus can be quickly and easily notified that the image data has been transmitted without bothering notification by a call using a mobile phone, for example. Thereby, the operator of the portable image communication apparatus can quickly confirm the transmitted image data.
[0273]
The digital image forming system of the present invention can be carried independently of the digital image forming apparatus, a relay apparatus (communication management apparatus) that relays communication, and the digital image forming apparatus. A portable image communication device capable of communicating with the forming device and communicating with the other communication device via the relay device, wherein the relay device is addressed to the portable image communication device from the other communication device. Storage means for storing transmitted image data, and when the image data is stored in the storage means, notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication device, while the portable image communication Control means for reading the image data from the storage means and transferring the image data to a portable image communication apparatus when a transfer request for the image data is received from the apparatus. When the portable image communication device receives the notification information from the relay device, the notification device performs notification, the image data transfer request input device, and the relay device based on the input from the input device The image data transfer request to the portable image communication device and control means for transferring the image data transferred from the relay device to the digital image forming device, the digital image forming device comprising: The image data may be visualized by a visualizing unit, and the control unit may be configured to supply the image data transferred from the portable image communication device to the visualizing unit.
[0274]
In this case, image data transmitted from another communication device to the portable image communication device is stored in the storage unit of the relay device. At this time, notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and the notification means performs a notification operation in the portable image communication apparatus based on the notification information. Thereby, the operator of the portable image communication apparatus can know the existence of the image data in the relay apparatus. When an operator requests transfer of the image data, the operator can make a transfer request by inputting to the input means. Based on this, a transfer request for image data is made from the portable image communication apparatus to the relay apparatus, and the image data is transferred from the relay apparatus to the portable image communication apparatus. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is further transferred to the digital image forming apparatus. In the digital image forming apparatus, the image data is visualized by the visualizing means.
[0275]
In the digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the relay device, and the portable image communication device may request transfer of the image data as necessary. it can. Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0276]
The digital image forming system of the present invention can be carried independently of the digital image forming apparatus, a relay apparatus (communication management apparatus) that relays communication, and the digital image forming apparatus. A portable image communication device capable of communicating with the forming device and communicating with the other communication device via the relay device, wherein the relay device is addressed to the portable image communication device from the other communication device. Storage means for storing transmitted image data, and when the image data is stored in the storage means, notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication device, while the portable image communication Control means for reading the image data from the storage means and transferring the image data to a portable image communication apparatus when a transfer request for the image data is received from the apparatus. A portable image communication device stores image data, a notification device that notifies when the notification information is received from the relay device, an input device for the transfer request of the image data, and the input device A transfer request for the image data to the portable image communication device based on the input from the relay device, and the image data transferred from the relay device is stored in the storage means, while the storage Control means for reading out the image data stored in the means and transmitting it to the digital image forming apparatus, wherein the digital image forming apparatus visualizes the image data, and the portable The image processing apparatus may include a control unit that supplies the image data transferred from the image communication apparatus to the visualizing unit.
[0277]
In this case, image data transmitted from another communication device to the portable image communication device is stored in the storage unit of the relay device. At this time, notification information indicating this state is transmitted to the portable image communication apparatus, and the notification means performs a notification operation in the portable image communication apparatus based on the notification information. Thereby, the operator of the portable image communication apparatus can know the existence of the image data in the relay apparatus. When an operator requests transfer of the image data, the operator can make a transfer request by inputting to the input means. Based on this, a transfer request for image data is made from the portable image communication apparatus to the relay apparatus, and the image data is transferred from the relay apparatus to the portable image communication apparatus. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is stored in the storage unit of the portable image communication apparatus. After that, when the portable image communication apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus are in a communicable state, the image data is transferred from the portable image communication apparatus to the digital image forming apparatus. The image data is visualized by the means.
[0278]
In the digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the relay device, and the portable image communication device may request transfer of the image data as necessary. it can. Therefore, it is not necessary to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication apparatus, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication apparatus can be effectively used for other purposes.
[0279]
Further, since the image data transferred from the relay device to the portable image communication apparatus is temporarily stored in the storage means of the portable image communication apparatus, the operator can connect the portable image communication apparatus to the digital image forming apparatus at an appropriate time. It is possible to obtain a visualized image of the image data.
[0280]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, the digital image forming system of the present invention includes a digital image forming apparatus and a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with the digital image forming apparatus and further capable of communicating with a communication management apparatus. In the digital image forming system, the communication management device includes: When image data to be transmitted to a specific portable image communication device is received, the image data and destination information A storage unit for storing Send a message that there is image data to be transmitted to the specific portable image communication device, and according to the message, Said specific Based on the request from the portable image communication device, the image data stored in the storage unit is specific Control means for transmitting to the portable image communication device Thereby functioning as a relay device for managing communication of the portable image communication device. The portable image communication apparatus includes: a storage unit that stores image data transmitted from the communication management apparatus; and the digital image forming apparatus that is placed at a destination of an operator carrying the portable image communication apparatus. Communication Communication by mounting the portable image communication apparatus on the digital image forming apparatus or facing the portable image communication apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus. By requesting the image data stored in the communication management device in a possible state, the image data transmitted from the communication management device is stored in the storage unit, and the image data stored in the storage unit is stored. Control means for transferring the image data to the digital image forming apparatus, and the digital image forming apparatus has been transferred from the visible image forming means for visualizing image data and the portable image communication apparatus. And a control unit that supplies image data to the visible image forming unit.
[0281]
As a result, image data transmitted from another communication device to the portable image communication device is stored in the storage means of the communication management device. On the other hand, the operator of the portable image communication apparatus operates the portable image communication apparatus and confirms the presence of image data in the communication management apparatus. Here, although the presence of the image data can be confirmed, the operator requests the transfer of the image data, and based on this, the transfer request of the image data is made from the portable image communication device to the communication management device, Image data is transferred from the communication management device to the portable image communication device. The image data transferred to the portable image communication apparatus is further transferred to the digital image forming apparatus. In the digital image forming apparatus, the image data is visualized by the visualizing means.
[0282]
Therefore, in this digital image forming system, as described above, image data transmitted from another communication device is stored in the communication management device, and the portable image communication device requests transfer of the image data as necessary. can do. Therefore, there is no need to always ensure a large storage capacity for storing the image data in the portable image communication device, and the storage capacity of the portable image communication device can be effectively used for other purposes. Play.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a digital image forming system according to a reference example of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a front view showing a state where the digital copying machine and the mobile phone constituting the digital image forming system shown in FIG. 1 are mounted on the digital copying machine.
FIG. 3 is a schematic longitudinal sectional view showing an internal structure of the digital copying machine shown in FIG. 2;
[Fig. 4]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram of an image processing unit provided in the digital copying machine shown in FIG. 2.
[Figure 5]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a control system provided in the digital copying machine shown in FIG. 2.
6 is a front view of an operation panel provided in the digital copying machine shown in FIG. 2. FIG.
7 is a schematic front view showing the mobile phone shown in FIG. 2 and a lock mechanism provided in the digital copying machine. FIG.
FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an operation of the digital copying machine shown in FIG.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 8;
10 is a flowchart showing the operation of the mobile phone shown in FIG. 1 corresponding to the operation of the digital copying machine shown in FIGS. 8 and 9. FIG.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 10;
FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing operations of a digital copying machine and a mobile phone in a digital image forming system according to another reference example of the present invention.
13 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing operations of the digital copying machine and the mobile phone of the digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 14;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing operations of the digital copying machine and the mobile phone of the digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 16;
FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing an operation of a digital image forming system in still another reference example of the invention.
FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating an operation following the operation illustrated in FIG.
FIG. 20 is a block diagram showing a configuration in which a power source is connected to a mobile phone in a digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing an operation of a digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
22 is a flowchart showing an operation subsequent to the operation shown in FIG.
FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing the operation on the mobile phone side of the digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
24 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG.
FIG. 25 is a flowchart showing the operation on the digital copying machine side of the digital image forming system in still another reference example of the present invention.
FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 25;
FIG. 27 is a schematic block diagram showing a configuration of a digital image forming system in an embodiment of the present invention.
28 is a flowchart showing an operation of the communication management center shown in FIG. 27. FIG.
FIG. 29 is a flowchart showing operations of the mobile phone and the digital copying machine shown in FIG.
FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 29;
FIG. 31 of the present invention Other reference examples 2 is a flowchart showing the operation on the mobile phone side of the digital image forming system in FIG.
32 is a flowchart showing an operation following the operation shown in FIG. 31. FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Digital copier (digital image forming device)
1a Wearing part
2 Mobile phone (portable image communication device)
11 Scanner unit (image data generating means)
64 Image memory (first storage means)
65 Main CPU (first control means)
73 Operation panel
131 CPU (second control means)
132 Memory (second storage means)
137 Input key (input means)
151 Communication management center (communication management device)
152 CPU (control means)
153 Memory (storage means)

Claims (1)

In a digital image forming system comprising a portable image communication apparatus capable of communicating with a digital image forming apparatus and the digital image forming apparatus, and further capable of communicating with a communication management apparatus,
The communication management device
When receiving image data to be transmitted to a specific portable image communication device, a storage unit that stores the image data and transmission destination information ;
A message indicating that image data to be transmitted exists is transmitted to the specific portable image communication apparatus, and the message is stored in the storage unit in response to the request from the specific portable image communication apparatus. the image data are Rukoto and control means for transmitting to said particular portable image communication apparatus functions as a relay apparatus for managing communication of the portable image communication apparatus,
The portable image communication device includes:
A storage unit for storing image data transmitted from the communication management device;
The communication with the digital image forming apparatus placed at the destination of the operator carrying the portable image communication apparatus is mounted on the digital image forming apparatus or the portable image communication apparatus. By requesting the image data stored in the communication management device in a communicable state by facing the digital image forming device and the digital image forming device, the image data transmitted from the communication management device is stored in the storage unit. Control means for storing and transferring the image data stored in the storage unit to the digital image forming apparatus,
The digital image forming apparatus includes:
A visualizing means for visualizing the image data;
A digital image forming system comprising: control means for supplying image data transferred from the portable image communication apparatus to the visualizing means.

Images