JP4650276B2 - Facsimile device, information management method and program thereof - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus, an information management method, and a program thereof.

Conventionally, as a facsimile apparatus, one that stores received FAX information in a server via a network has been proposed (for example, see Patent Document 1). The system described in Patent Document 1 transfers received FAX information to a server when it can be transferred to the network, and prints out the received FAX information when it cannot be transferred to the network. For this reason, it is possible to prevent the reception of FAX information when the network is unavailable.
JP 11-275293 A

  However, in the facsimile apparatus described in Patent Document 1, FAX information received when the network is not available can be recorded and used on a recording sheet by printing out, but the printed FAX information is stored in a server. Is not stored, all received FAX information cannot be stored in the server and managed. Here, for example, it is conceivable to manually register the FAX information printed on the recording paper in the server. However, since the information of the transmission source is attached to the FAX information, complicated input is required.

  The present invention has been made in view of such problems, and a facsimile apparatus capable of storing and managing received information in a storage device without performing complicated input even when a network cannot be used, An object is to provide an information management method and a program thereof.

  The present invention adopts the following means in order to achieve the above-mentioned object.

The facsimile apparatus of the present invention
Receiving means capable of receiving image information and source information of the image information;
Information output means capable of outputting information to a storage device via a network;
Print output means capable of outputting information to a printing apparatus without going through a network;
Determining means for determining whether or not the network is available;
Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and source information of image information;
Reading means capable of reading the image information printed on the print medium and the correspondence information;
Controlling the information output means so that the image information and the transmission source information received by the receiving means are output to the storage device when the determining means determines that the network is available; When the determination unit determines that the network cannot be used, correspondence information that associates the image information received by the reception unit with the transmission source information is added to the image information, and the provided correspondence information and the transmission source Information is stored in the information storage means, and the image information and the correspondence information are printed on a printing medium in a state where the correspondence information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. Control means for controlling the print output means so that the image information and the correspondence information are output to the printing apparatus,
It is equipped with.

  In this facsimile apparatus, when it is determined that the network is usable, the received image information and transmission source information are output to the storage device, and when it is determined that the network cannot be used, the received image information and transmission source information are output. Is assigned to the image information, the assigned correspondence information and the transmission source information are stored in the information storage means, and the correspondence information is located at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. The image information and the correspondence information are output to the printing apparatus so that the image information and the correspondence information are printed on the print medium in a state where the image information is arranged. As described above, when the printed image information and the correspondence information are read later, the image information can be managed using the transmission source information based on the correspondence information stored in the information storage means. Therefore, in a facsimile apparatus that transmits received image information to a storage device via a network, the received information can be stored and managed in the storage device without complicated input even when the network cannot be used. it can. Here, the “sender information” includes, for example, a sender telephone number.

  In the facsimile apparatus of the present invention, the control means includes correspondence information arranged at the predetermined position in the information read by the reading means when the determination means determines that the network is usable. If it is included, the correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage means, and read together with the read transmission source information by the reading means. The information output means may be controlled so that the image information is output to the storage device. In this way, when the image information that has been printed becomes available on the network, the transmission source information stored in the information storage unit is used based on the read correspondence information, and the storage device is not printed. Since the image information and the transmission source information are output to the storage device in the same manner as those output to the storage device, the received information is saved in the storage device without performing complicated input even when the network is not available. Can be managed. In this case, the facsimile apparatus according to the present invention includes a conveying unit capable of conveying the printing medium printed by the printing apparatus to the reading unit, and the control unit is configured to receive the image information and the correspondence information from the printing apparatus. After the print output means is controlled to output to the network, if the determination means determines that the network is available, the transport means causes the print medium to be transported to the reading means, and the print medium is transferred to the print medium. Causing the reading unit to read the printed image information and the correspondence information, identify the read correspondence information, read the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information from the information storage unit, and The information output unit may be controlled to output the image information read by the reading unit together with the read transmission source information to the storage device. . In this way, the transmission source information and the printed image information are automatically output to the storage device, so that it is possible to save the user's management effort.

  In the facsimile apparatus of the present invention, the control means may include at least one of a reception date and time, a reception form, and a transmission destination name in the transmission source information. In this way, in addition to the received image information and transmission source information, the reception date and time, the reception form, the transmission destination name, and the like are also stored in the storage device, so that the user can easily use the image information.

Alternatively, the facsimile apparatus of the present invention can
Information output means capable of outputting information to a storage device via a network;
Determining means for determining whether or not the network is available;
Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and predetermined source information;
Reading means capable of reading the image information printed on the print medium and the correspondence information;
The determination unit determines that the network is usable, and the image information is printed in a state where the correspondence information associated with the transmission source information of the predetermined image information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified. When the printing medium is read by the reading unit, the read correspondence information is identified, transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage unit, and the read transmission source information and Control means for controlling the information output means so that image information read by the reading means is output to the storage device;
It is good also as a thing provided.

  In this facsimile apparatus, it is determined that the network is available, and the image information is printed in a state in which the correspondence information associated with the transmission source information of the predetermined image information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified. When the medium is read, the read correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage means, and the read transmission source information and the read image information are stored in the storage device. Output to. As described above, when the printed image information and the correspondence information are read, the image information and the transmission source information are obtained using the transmission source information stored in the information storage unit based on the read correspondence information. It is output to the storage device. Therefore, even when the network cannot be used, the received information can be stored and managed in the storage device without performing complicated input.

  The facsimile apparatus of the present invention having a control means for identifying the read correspondence information includes an instruction acquisition means for obtaining a reading instruction for reading the image information printed on the print medium and the correspondence information from a user. When the determination unit determines that the network is usable and the instruction acquisition unit acquires a reading instruction, the control unit sets the transmission source information of the predetermined image information at a predetermined position that can be identified. The reading means reads the print medium on which the image information is printed in a state where the corresponding correspondence information is arranged, identifies the read correspondence information, and associates the read correspondence information with the identified correspondence information. Source information is read from the information storage unit, and the read source information and image information read by the reading unit are transferred to the storage device. It may control the information output means to be force. By so doing, the print medium is read according to the reading instruction of the user, so that the image information printed on the print medium and the corresponding information can be reliably read.

  In the facsimile apparatus according to the aspect of the invention including a control unit for identifying the read correspondence information, the control unit may include at least one of a reception date and time, a reception form, and a transmission destination name in the transmission source information. Good. In this way, in addition to the image information and the transmission source information, the reception date and time, the reception form, the transmission destination name, and the like are also stored in the storage device, so that the user can easily use the image information.

  In the facsimile apparatus of the present invention, the control means may add a reception ID to the image information as the correspondence information. In this way, it is possible to associate the image information with the transmission source information relatively easily using the reception ID. Here, it is preferable to use characters, symbols, figures, etc. as the “reception ID”.

The information management method of the present invention includes:
Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and predetermined transmission source information, and reading means capable of reading image information printed on a print medium and the correspondence information to a storage device via a network An information management method by computer software that outputs and manages image information,
(A) receiving image information and source information of the image information;
(B) determining whether the network is available;
(C) When it is determined in step (b) that the network is available, the image information and the transmission source information received in step (a) are output to the storage device, and the step (b ), It is determined that the network cannot be used. Correspondence information for associating the image information received in step (a) with the transmission source information is assigned to the image information, and the provided correspondence information and the transmission source. Information is stored in the information storage means, and the image information and the correspondence information are printed on a print medium in a state where the correspondence information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. Outputting the image information and the correspondence information to the printing apparatus;
Is included.

  In this information management method, when it is determined that the network is usable, the received image information and the transmission source information are output to the storage device, and when it is determined that the network cannot be used, the received image information and the transmission source information are output. Correspondence information for associating information is assigned to the image information, the assigned correspondence information and the transmission source information are stored in the information storage means, and the correspondence is provided at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. The image information and the correspondence information are output to the printing apparatus so that the image information and the correspondence information are printed on the print medium in a state where the information is arranged. As described above, when the printed image information and the correspondence information are read later, the image information can be managed using the transmission source information based on the correspondence information stored in the information storage means. Therefore, even if the network cannot be used, the received information can be stored and managed in the storage device without performing complicated input. In this information management method, various aspects of the above-described facsimile apparatus may be adopted, and steps for realizing each function of the above-described facsimile apparatus may be added.

Alternatively, the information management method of the present invention includes:
Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and predetermined transmission source information, and reading means capable of reading image information printed on a print medium and the correspondence information to a storage device via a network An information management method by computer software that outputs and manages image information,
(A) determining whether the network is available;
(B) In step (a), it is determined that the network is available, and the image is displayed in a state where the correspondence information associated with the transmission source information of the predetermined image information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified. When the printing medium on which the information is printed is read by the reading unit, the read correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage unit, and the reading is performed. Outputting the transmitted source information and the image information read by the reading means to the storage device;
May be included.

  In this information management method, it is determined that the network is available, and the image information is printed in a state in which the correspondence information associated with the transmission source information of the predetermined image information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified. When the print medium is read, the read correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage means, and the read transmission source information and the read image information are stored. Output to the device. As described above, when the printed image information and the correspondence information are read, the image information and the transmission source information are obtained using the transmission source information stored in the information storage unit based on the read correspondence information. It is output to the storage device. Therefore, even if the network cannot be used, the received information can be stored and managed in the storage device without performing complicated input. In this information management method, various aspects of the above-described facsimile apparatus may be adopted, and steps for realizing each function of the above-described facsimile apparatus may be added.

  The program of the present invention is for causing each step of the information management method described above to be realized by one or more computers. This program may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium (for example, hard disk, ROM, FD, CD, DVD, etc.), or from a computer via a transmission medium (communication network such as the Internet or LAN). It may be distributed to another computer, or may be exchanged in any other form. If this program is executed by a single computer or if each step is shared and executed by a plurality of computers, each step of the information management method described above is executed. can get.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a FAX information management system 10 according to an embodiment of the present invention, FIG. 2 is an explanatory diagram of a transport mechanism of a multifunction machine 20, and FIG. 3 is an operation panel. FIG. The FAX information management system 10 according to the present embodiment is connected to a multifunction machine 20 having functions as a facsimile apparatus and a printing apparatus according to the present invention, and the multifunction machine 20 via a LAN 12 serving as a network as a storage device according to the present invention. And a user personal computer (hereinafter referred to as a user PC) 70 connected to the MFP 20 or the FAX server 60 via the LAN 12. In the FAX information management system 10, a plurality of user PCs 70 (not shown) are connected to the LAN 12.

  The multi-function device 20 includes a printer unit 30 that includes a printer ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) 32 that controls the printer mechanism 31, a scanner unit 40 that includes a scanner ASIC 42 that controls the scanner mechanism 41, and A network interface (I / F) 25 capable of transmitting / receiving signals to / from a device connected to the LAN 12 as a telecommunication line via a network cable 25a, and a device connected to a telephone line as a telecommunication line Between the printer unit 30 and the scanner unit 40, and a user can input various instructions. The FAX interface 26 is capable of transmitting and receiving signals between the printer unit 30 and the scanner unit 40. A panel 50 and a controller 29 that controls the entire apparatus are provided.

  The printer mechanism 31 is configured as a full-color electrophotographic printing apparatus that employs a single photoreceptor system and an intermediate transfer system, and includes cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K). Formed on the photoconductor 33 using a photoconductor 33 that forms an electrostatic latent image of an image of each color separated into four colors on its surface and toner of each color supplied from the mounted toner cartridge of each color. A developing device 34 for developing the electrostatic latent image as a toner image, a transfer belt 35 as an intermediate transfer member for primary transfer so that the developed toner image is superimposed, and a recording paper S conveyed from a paper tray (not shown). A secondary transfer unit 37 for secondary transfer of the four color toner images formed on the transfer belt 35 and a fixing unit for melting and fixing the four color toner images transferred on the recording paper S to the recording paper S. 38 and performs a printing with a. The developing device 34 is configured to be rotatable so that each mounted toner cartridge faces the photosensitive member 33. The printer ASIC 32 is an IC chip having a function of controlling the printer mechanism 31, and the data stored in the print buffer provided in the RAM 23 is expanded into a bitmap image for each page. The printer mechanism 31 is controlled so as to be printed on the recording paper S.

  The scanner unit 40 includes a scanner mechanism 41 and a scanner ASIC 42. The scanner mechanism 41 is a so-called flatbed type, and includes a glass surface 43 on which a medium M for reading an image is placed, a line image sensor 44 for optically reading the medium M through the glass surface 43, and a line for reading the medium M. And a moving unit 46 that scans the image sensor 44. The scanner ASIC 42 is an IC chip having a function of controlling the scanner mechanism 41, and stores scan data read by the line image sensor 44 of the scanner mechanism 41 in a scanner buffer provided in the RAM 23 of the controller 29. The line image sensor 44 according to the present exemplary embodiment is a known color image in which reflected light after being emitted toward the medium M is separated into red (R), green (G), and blue (B) colors and used as scan data. It is a sensor. Further, as shown in FIG. 2, the scanner unit 40 can load the recording paper S printed by the printer unit 30 and can supply the recording paper S to the reading unit 48 by driving the paper feed roller 49. And a contact or optical paper sensor 47 that detects the presence or absence of the recording paper S on the paper tray 45.

  As shown in FIG. 2, the transport path 36 includes a paper discharge path 19 a that can transport the recording paper S from the fixing unit 38 to the paper discharge tray 18, and a scanner that can transport the recording paper S from the fixing unit 38 to the scanner unit 40. A path 19b and a reading path 19c capable of transporting the recording paper S to the reading unit 48 of the scanner unit 40 are provided. The paper discharge path 19a is provided with a switching member 39a that can be switched to transport the recording paper S to either the paper discharge path 19a or the scanner path 19b. The scanner path 19b is provided with a switching member 39b that can be switched to transport the recording sheet S to either the scanner path 19b or the reading path 19c. The switching members 39a and 39b are configured to be rotatable by a motor (not shown) that is driven and controlled by a signal from the controller 29.

  The operation panel 50 is a device for the user to input various instructions to the multi-function device 20, and displays characters, figures, or symbols corresponding to the various instructions as shown in FIGS. A display unit 52 and an operation unit 54 for performing various operations are provided. The display unit 52 includes a liquid crystal panel that displays a color image. The reception ID confirmation screen 81 of the display unit 52 shown in FIG. 3 will be described later. The operation unit 54 is printed on the recording paper S, a cursor key 54a that is pressed when the user moves a cursor that selects a process, characters, and the like, a determination key 54b that is pressed when determining a process selection, and the like. A registration key 54c that is pressed when the registered image information is registered in the FAX server 60 is arranged.

  The controller 29 is configured as a microprocessor centered on the CPU 21, and includes a ROM 22 that stores various processing programs, a RAM 23 that temporarily stores data, and a flash memory 24 that can write and erase data. . The controller 29 is connected to the printer ASIC 32, the scanner ASIC 42, the network interface 25, the FAX interface 26, and the operation panel 50 via the bus 28. The ROM 22 stores a FAX information management program 22a and a FAX information registration program 22b, which are application programs. The FAX information management program 22 a is a program for storing and managing FAX information received by the FAX interface 26 in the FAX server 60. The FAX information registration program 22b is a program for storing, in the FAX server 60, FAX information printed when the LAN 12 cannot be used. The RAM 14 is provided with a plurality of areas such as a print buffer that temporarily stores image information to be printed by the printer unit 30 and a scanner buffer that temporarily stores image information read by the scanner unit 40.

  The FAX server 60 includes a CPU 61 that executes various controls, a ROM 62 that stores various control programs, a RAM 63 that temporarily stores data, an HDD 64 that is a large-capacity memory that stores various application programs and various data files, and external devices. And an I / F 65 capable of transmitting and receiving signals between them, and these are connected so that information can be exchanged via a bus (not shown). The FAX server 60 is a server that stores and manages, in the HDD 64, FAX management information 64a including FAX information received from the outside by the multifunction device 20 and the transmission source information related to the FAX information. The FAX server 60 transmits / receives data using a reception buffer and a transmission buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 63 when transmitting / receiving data to / from the MFP 20 and the user PC 70 via the LAN 12.

  The user PC 70 is a well-known general-purpose personal computer, and sends a file print command to the multifunction device 20 via the LAN 12 by an installed program, receives a response from the multifunction device 20, or sends information to the FAX server 60. Or the FAX information transmitted from the FAX server 60 is received. The user PC 70 includes a display 72 for displaying various information on a screen, an input device 74 such as a keyboard for a user to input various commands, and the like, and the user inputs a cursor or the like displayed on the display 72 via the input device 74. When operated, it has a function of executing an operation corresponding to the input operation.

  Next, regarding the operation of the FAX information management system 10 according to the present embodiment configured as described above, first, the operation in which the MFP 20 receives the FAX information and outputs it to the FAX server 60 will be described. FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a FAX information management routine executed by the CPU 21 of the multifunction machine 20. This routine is executed when the FAX interface 26 receives FAX information including image information transmitted by the sender after the MFP 20 is activated.

  When this routine is executed, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the reception of the FAX information has been completed (step S100). If the reception of the FAX information has not ended, the CPU 21 stands by and the reception of the FAX information has been completed. Sometimes, a file name is given to the received FAX information (step S110). Here, the file name assigned to the FAX information is set to a received date and time number (for example, 20000051224200). The FAX information is stored in a FAX buffer provided in a predetermined area of the RAM 23. Next, the CPU 21 creates transmission source information of the received FAX information (step S120). The transmission source information includes the transmission source telephone number (FAX number) received together with the FAX information, the sender name set in advance by the user corresponding to the telephone number and stored in the flash memory 24, the received date and time, etc. It is created as including. In addition, the transmission source information may include a reception form (for example, a reception method such as G3 or a reception method such as polling reception). Next, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the LAN 12 as a network is available (step S130). Whether or not the LAN 12 is available is determined based on whether information is transmitted to the FAX server 60 and a response from the FAX server 60 is received within a predetermined time (for example, 1 minute, for example). When the LAN 12 is available, the received FAX information and the transmission source information created in Step S120 are transmitted and output from the network interface 25 to the FAX server 60 (Step S140), and the transmitted and output FAX information and transmission source information are displayed. Erasing from the FAX buffer of the RAM 23 (step S180), the routine is terminated. In this way, the information can be stored in the FAX buffer provided in the RAM 23. At this time, the transmitted transmission source information is also erased from the buffer of the RAM 23.

  Then, when the FAX server 60 receives the FAX information and the transmission source information transmitted and output in Step S140, the CPU 61 stores the received FAX information and the transmission source information in the FAX management information 64a. Here, the FAX management information 64a will be described. FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the FAX management information 64 a stored in the HDD 64. In the FAX management information 64a, the file name of the FAX information given in Step S110, the transmission source information created in Step S120, and the image information included in the FAX information are stored for each received FAX information. This is updated each time the multifunction device 20 receives FAX information. Then, when the user starts the cooperation software installed in the HDD (not shown) of the user PC 70, each FAX information and transmission source information included in the FAX management information 64a is selectively displayed on the display 72 of the user PC 70. Here, the FAX management information 64a shown in FIG. 5 is set to be displayed as an image on the display 72 as it is in a state where it can be selected by a cursor (not shown). For this reason, FAX information necessary for the user can be acquired as data. Note that the FAX information included in the FAX management information 64a stored in the HDD 64 is periodically deleted, for example, in the oldest order.

  On the other hand, when the LAN 12 is not available in step S130, FAX information cannot be transmitted to the FAX server 60, so the following processing is executed. Note that the case where the LAN 12 is not available includes, for example, a case where a communication state cannot be temporarily ensured due to, for example, a HUB (not shown) being turned off. Specifically, the CPU 21 assigns to the FAX information a reception ID that associates the received FAX information with the transmission source information of the FAX information (Step S150). Here, for example, an 8-digit serial number is set to be given to the FAX information as the reception ID, and this reception ID is given by reading the value counted in the flash memory 24. Subsequently, the CPU 21 associates the transmission source information with the reception ID and stores them as unregistered FAX information 24a in the flash memory 24 (step S160). FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of unregistered FAX information 24 a stored in the flash memory 24. As shown in FIG. 6, in this unregistered FAX information 24a, a reception ID, transmission source information, and a file name are associated and stored. Since the unregistered FAX information 24a is stored in text format, the area occupied in the storage area of the flash memory 24 can be reduced.

  Subsequently, the CPU 21 sets the reception ID and the FAX information so that the FAX information and the reception ID are printed on the recording paper S in a state where the reception ID is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the scanner unit 40. Printing is output to the printer ASIC 32 via the bus 28 (step S170), the fax information printed out is deleted from the FAX buffer of the RAM 23 (step S180), and this routine is terminated.

  When receiving the reception ID and the FAX information, the printer ASIC 32 controls the printer mechanism 31 to print the reception ID at a predetermined position on the recording paper S and to print an image included in the FAX information on the recording paper S. FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram of the reception ID display unit 82 for printing the reception ID. As shown in FIG. 7, in the present embodiment, the reception ID display unit 82 is set to be printed on the upper right part of the recording paper S that has a relatively small influence on the image. Here, the printing process will be described. When printing is instructed, the printer ASIC 32 forms an electrostatic latent image (exposure) on the photosensitive member 33 charged by a charger (not shown) based on the image information including the received ID (exposure) and applies it. The charged toner is attached to the electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive member 33 to form a toner image on the photosensitive member 33 (development). Subsequently, the toner image on the photosensitive member 33 is transferred onto the transfer belt 35 (primary transfer), and the toner images are superimposed on the recording paper S through the same process for each color toner. Are transferred by the secondary transfer unit 37 (secondary transfer). Finally, the recording paper S on which the toner image has been formed by the fixing unit 38 is heated and pressurized while being conveyed, and the toner image transferred onto the surface of the recording paper S is melted and fixed on the recording paper S and printed. The switching members 39a and 39b are rotated so that the recording paper S is conveyed to the paper tray 45 via the scanner path 19b. When there is a next page to be printed, the above process is repeated for that page. When there are a plurality of received faxes, the reception ID display unit 82 is printed on all the recording sheets S. As described above, when the LAN 12 cannot be used and the received FAX information cannot be transmitted to the FAX server 60, the FAX information to which the reception ID is added is printed on the recording paper S, thereby preventing the memory of the MFP 20 from being over and preventing the FAX. The reception enabled state is maintained. Then, the recording paper S printed out without being transmitted to the FAX server 60 is placed on the paper tray 45.

  Next, an operation of registering FAX information that has been printed on the recording paper S and cannot be used in the LAN 12 in the FAX management information 64a of the FAX server 60 will be described. FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a FAX information automatic registration routine executed by the CPU 21 of the multifunction machine 20. This routine is repeatedly executed after the reception ID and the FAX information are printed out in step S170 of the above-described FAX information management routine. When this routine is started, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the LAN 12 can be used by the same method as that in step S130 of the above-described FAX information management routine (step S200). Whether or not the reception ID is stored in the memory 24 is determined by examining the information of the unregistered FAX information 24a (step S210). When the reception ID is stored in the flash memory 24, the CPU 21 assumes that there is FAX information printed on the recording paper S that cannot be transmitted to the FAX server 60 in the FAX information management routine, and the recording paper S is placed on the paper tray 45. Whether or not the recording paper is placed is determined based on the output signal of the paper sensor 47 (step S220), and when the recording paper S is placed on the paper tray 45, the recording paper S on the paper tray 45 is read. It is conveyed to 19c (step S230). Here, the recording paper S is conveyed by rotating the switching member 39b and driving the paper feed roller 49 so that the recording paper S is conveyed to the reading unit 48 via the reading path 19c.

  Next, the CPU 21 reads an image printed on the recording paper S by the line image sensor 48 (step S240). Here, the scanner ASIC 42 causes the line image sensor 44 to read one page of the printing surface of the recording sheet S passing through the reading unit 48 and sequentially stores the read scan data in the scanner buffer of the RAM 23. Subsequently, the CPU 21 character-identifies the reception ID included in the read scan data (step S250). Here, the character identification is performed by using a well-known character recognition method (so-called OCR function) for a character printed at a predetermined position of the reception ID display unit 82. Subsequently, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the received scan data includes a reception ID (step S260), and erases the scan data when the reception ID is not included (step S270).

  After step S270 or when the received ID is included in the scan data in step S260, it is determined whether there is a next page based on the output signal of the paper sensor 47 (step S280), and there is a next page. When it is determined that, the above-described steps S230 to S270 are executed. On the other hand, when it is determined in step S280 that there is no next page, the CPU 21 associates the identified received ID with the identified received ID by comparing the received ID with the received ID stored in the unregistered FAX information 24a. The transmission source information and file name are read from the unregistered FAX information 24a (step S290). Here, when a plurality of reception IDs are identified, the transmission source information and the file name are read for each identified reception ID. Subsequently, the CPU 21 assigns the read file name to the scan data read by the scanner unit 40, and transmits the scan data together with the read transmission source information to the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60 as FAX information (step S300). Here, when a plurality of pages of FAX information having the same reception ID are read, the read pages are combined into one file, and a file name is assigned to this file. In addition, when there are a plurality of reception IDs, a file name is set to a file for each reception ID. Subsequently, the CPU 21 deletes the current reception ID and the file name and transmission source information associated with the reception ID from the unregistered FAX information 24a (step S310), and ends this routine.

  When the FAX server 60 receives the FAX information and the transmission source information transmitted and output in step S310, the CPU 61 stores the received FAX information and the transmission source information in the FAX management information 64a. At this time, the FAX management information 64a stores the received FAX information and the transmission source information by rearranging the files based on the reception date and time included in the transmission source information received by the FAX server 60. Then, when the user activates the cooperation software installed in the HDD (not shown) of the user PC 70, each FAX information (FAX information, transmission source information, etc.) included in the FAX management information 64a is selectively displayed on the user PC 70. 72. For this reason, FAX information necessary for the user can be acquired as data.

  On the other hand, when the LAN 12 is not available at step S200 or when the recording paper S is not placed on the paper tray 45 at step S220, the FAX information cannot be transmitted to the FAX server 60, or at step S210, the flash memory 24 is stored. When the reception ID is not stored, it is not necessary to transmit the FAX information to the FAX server 60, so this routine is terminated as it is.

  Here, the correspondence between the components of the present embodiment and the components of the present invention will be clarified. The FAX interface 26 of the present embodiment corresponds to the receiving means of the present invention, the network interface 25 corresponds to the information output means, the bus 28 corresponds to the print output means, the flash memory 24 corresponds to the information storage means, the scanner The unit 40 corresponds to a reading unit, and the CPU 21 corresponds to a control unit. The LAN 12 corresponds to a network, the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60 corresponds to a storage device, the printer unit 30 corresponds to a printing device, the FAX information corresponds to image information, and the reception ID corresponds to correspondence information. In the present embodiment, an example of the information management method of the present invention is also clarified by describing the operation of the FAX information management system 10.

  According to the FAX information management system 10 of the present embodiment described in detail above, when it is determined that the LAN 12 is usable, the received FAX information and transmission source information are output to the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60 and used by the LAN 12. When it is determined that the received fax information cannot be transmitted, a reception ID for associating the received FAX information with the transmission source information is added to the FAX information, and the received reception ID and the transmission source information are stored in the flash memory 24 and the scanner unit. The FAX information and the reception ID are printed on the recording paper S in a state where the reception ID is arranged at a predetermined position (reception ID display unit 82) that can be identified when read by the printer 40. To the unit 30. As described above, when the printed fax information and the received ID are read by the scanner unit 40, the FAX information is managed using the transmission source information based on the received ID stored in the flash memory 24. Is possible. Therefore, even when the LAN 12 cannot be used, all received FAX information can be stored and managed in the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60. For this reason, even if FAX information is printed, the user can use FAX information as data via a network. Further, since the numerical reception ID is used, the FAX information and the transmission source information can be associated with each other relatively easily.

  When the LAN 12 becomes usable after the FAX information is printed on the recording paper S when the LAN 12 cannot be used, the printed recording paper S is read by the scanner unit 40 and the reception ID is automatically identified. In order to transmit and output the FAX information and the transmission source information to the FAX server 60, by automatically transmitting and outputting the FAX information and the transmission source information to the HDD 64 as if they were output to the HDD 64 without being printed, It is possible to save the trouble of managing the user's FAX information. Further, the sender information including the reception date and destination name along with the sender's telephone number is stored in the flash memory 24, and the FAX information and the sender information are transmitted to the FAX server 60. In addition to the original telephone number, the reception date and the destination name are also stored in the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60 so that the user can easily use the FAX information. Further, the reception ID and FAX information are printed out so that the reception ID is printed on the reception ID display unit 82 provided at a predetermined position of the recording paper S, and then the reception ID display unit 82 when the LAN 12 is available. Since the received ID recorded in is read by the scanner unit 40, the print position of the received ID is determined in advance, and the accuracy of reading and identifying the received ID can be improved.

  Further, unregistered FAX information 24a including the transmission source information is stored in the flash memory 24, and when the reception ID is identified by reading the recording paper S, the transmission source information associated with the reception ID is stored in the flash memory 24. Since it is read out from, there is no need to input the reception ID manually. Further, since the unregistered FAX information 24a including the transmission source information is only stored in text format in the flash memory 24, it is not necessary to increase the storage capacity of the flash memory 24.

  It should be noted that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it goes without saying that the present invention can be implemented in various modes as long as it belongs to the technical scope of the present invention.

  For example, in the above-described embodiment, the description has been made assuming that the reception ID made up of numbers is used as correspondence information for associating the FAX information and the transmission source information related to the FAX information. It may be a symbol or the like, or may be a bar code, a two-dimensional bar code, a graphic such as an icon.

  In the above-described embodiment, after printing the fax information on the recording paper S, when the controller 29 determines that the LAN 12 is usable, the printed fax information is automatically read by the scanner unit 40. However, when the user presses the registration key 54c provided on the operation unit 54 of the operation panel 50 after placing the recording paper S on which the reception ID is printed on the paper tray 45, the above-described FAX information automatic operation is performed. The registration routine may be executed. In this way, since the recording sheet S is read according to the reading instruction from the user, the FAX information printed on the recording sheet S and the reception ID can be reliably read.

  At this time, when a confirmation menu for unregistered FAX information 24a is selected in a state where a predetermined menu screen is displayed on the display unit 52 of the operation panel 50, a reception ID confirmation screen 81 is displayed as shown in FIG. The received ID that has not been registered in the HDD 64 of the FAX server 60 may be displayed. In this way, it is possible to easily confirm whether or not the FAX information printed on the recording paper S needs to be registered.

  In the above-described embodiment, in step S170 of the FAX information management routine shown in FIG. 4, when there are a plurality of received FAX information, the received ID display unit 82 is arranged and printed out on all FAX information, and shown in FIG. In step S250 of the FAX information automatic registration routine, it is determined whether or not a reception ID is included for each of the read recording sheets S. However, the transmission source information created in step S120 of the FAX information management routine. In step S170, the reception ID display unit 82 is arranged only on the first page of the FAX information and printed out, and is received on the recording sheet S read by the FAX information automatic registration routine. When it is determined that the ID is included, the read page is the first page, and the number of pages corresponding to the received ID is read. It may be so that. In this way, since it is only necessary to identify the reception ID for the first page, the time for identifying the reception ID can be shortened.

  In the embodiment described above, the printer unit 30 and the scanner unit 40 have been described as the integrated machine 20 connected to the bus 28, but, for example, the printer unit 30, the controller 29, and the operation panel 50 are integrated. For example, a scanner device including the scanner unit 40 may be connected to the printing device via a local connection such as a USB, or the scanner device 40, the controller 29, and the operation panel 50 may be integrated into a printer. For example, the printer provided with the unit 30 may be connected by a local connection such as USB, or the printer unit 30, the scanner unit 40, and the controller 29 may exist as separate units, and each may be connected by a local connection such as USB. It is good also as what was done.

  In the above-described embodiment, the full-color electrophotographic printer mechanism 31 has been described. However, an inkjet full-color printer mechanism, a thermal transfer full-color printer mechanism, or a dot impact color printer mechanism may be used. These monochrome printers may be used.

1 is a configuration diagram showing an outline of a configuration of a FAX information management system 10. FIG. 2 is a configuration diagram illustrating an outline of a configuration of a multifunction machine 20. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the operation panel. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a FAX information management routine. 6 is an explanatory diagram of FAX management information 64a stored in an HDD 64. FIG. It is explanatory drawing of the unregistered FAX information 24a. It is explanatory drawing of the reception ID display part 82 which prints reception ID. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of FAX information automatic registration processing.

Explanation of symbols

  10 FAX information management system, 12 LAN, 18 discharge tray, 19a discharge path, 19b scanner path, 19c reading path, 20 MFP, 21 CPU, 22 ROM, 22a FAX information management program, 22b FAX information automatic registration program, 23 RAM, 24 Flash memory, 24a Unregistered FAX information, 25 Network interface (I / F), 25a Network cable, 26 FAX interface, 26a Telephone line cable, 28 Bus, 29 Controller, 30 Printer unit, 31 Printer mechanism, 32 Printer ASIC, 33 Photoconductor, 34 Developer, 35 Transfer belt, 36 Transport path, 37 Secondary transfer unit, 38 Fixing unit, 39a, 39b Switching member, 40 Scanner unit, 41 Scanner mechanism , 42 Scanner ASIC, 43 Glass surface, 44 Line image sensor, 45 Paper tray, 46 Moving part, 47 Paper sensor, 48 Reading part, 49 Paper feed roller, 50 Operation panel, 52, Display part, 54 Operation part, 54a Cursor Key, 54b determination key, 54c registration key, 60 FAX server, 61 CPU, 62 ROM, 63 RAM, 64 HDD, 64a FAX management information, 65 network interface (I / F), 70 user PC, 72 display, 74 input device 81 Reception ID confirmation screen, 82 Reception ID display section, S recording paper.

Claims (5)

Receiving means capable of receiving image information and source information of the image information;
Information output means capable of outputting information to a storage device via a network;
Print output means capable of outputting information to a printing apparatus without going through a network;
Determining means for determining whether or not the network is available;
Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and source information of image information;
Reading means capable of reading the image information printed on the print medium and the correspondence information;
Controlling the information output means so that the image information and the transmission source information received by the receiving means are output to the storage device when the determining means determines that the network is available; When the determination unit determines that the network cannot be used, correspondence information that associates the image information received by the reception unit with the transmission source information is added to the image information, and the provided correspondence information and the transmission source Information is stored in the information storage means, and the image information and the correspondence information are printed on a printing medium in a state where the correspondence information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. in and a control unit for controlling the printing output means to the said image information and said corresponding information is output to the printing device so,
When the control unit determines that the network is available by the determination unit, the information read by the reading unit includes correspondence information arranged at the predetermined position. The correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage means, and the image information read by the reading means together with the read transmission source information is stored in the storage controlling the information output means so as to be output to the device, off Akushimiri device. The control means includes at least one of a reception date and time, a reception form, and a transmission destination name in the transmission source information.
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1 . The control unit assigns a reception ID to the image information as the correspondence information.
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1 or 2 . Information storage means for storing predetermined correspondence information and predetermined transmission source information, and reading means capable of reading image information printed on a print medium and the correspondence information to a storage device via a network An information management method by computer software that outputs and manages image information,
(A) receiving image information and source information of the image information;
(B) determining whether the network is available;
(C) When it is determined in step (b) that the network is available, the image information and the transmission source information received in step (a) are output to the storage device, and the step (b ), It is determined that the network cannot be used. Correspondence information for associating the image information received in step (a) with the transmission source information is assigned to the image information, and the provided correspondence information and the transmission source. Information is stored in the information storage means, and the image information and the correspondence information are printed on a print medium in a state where the correspondence information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified when read by the reading means. Outputting the image information and the correspondence information to the printing apparatus;
(D) In step (b), it is determined that the network is available, and the image is displayed in a state where the correspondence information associated with the transmission source information of the predetermined image information is arranged at a predetermined position that can be identified. When the printing medium on which the information is printed is read by the reading unit, the read correspondence information is identified, the transmission source information associated with the identified correspondence information is read from the information storage unit, and the reading is performed. Outputting the transmitted source information and the image information read by the reading means to the storage device;
Information management method. A program for causing each step of the information management method according to claim 4 to be realized by one or more computers.

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