JPH0440148A - Copy machine controller - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To prevent the state of uselessly occupying a communication line on the user side by setting time designated by a random number from among time satisfying a prescribed allowable condition as redial time, and relaxing the prescribed allowable condition when the number of times for redialing exceeds the prescribed number of times. CONSTITUTION:When a DT can not be connected to a center by the condition on the center side, recall origination (redial) time is set. When an emergency mode is not set, the time for an arbitrary even number within 20 minutes from current time is set as the next redial time by the random number on the condition that a redial counter value is less than (b) times. When the number of times for redialing exceeds the (b) times under a non-emergency mode, the time for an arbitrary even number within 40 minutes from the current time is set as the next redial time by the random number on the condition that the number of times for redialing is less than (c) times.

Description

[Detailed description of the invention] [Industrial application field]

The present invention relates to a copying machine management device for transmitting copying machine management data to a centralized management device on the center side.

[Conventional technology]

(1) A method has been proposed in which the management data of multiple copying machines is sent to a single central processing unit and processed in bulk by the central processing unit (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 54-54032). . (2) A system has been proposed that centrally manages each copying machine by transmitting the management data of multiple copying machines to a single central control unit via the terminal device of each copying machine for processing. (Japanese Unexamined Patent Publication No. 54-44522). (3) A system equivalent to the above has been proposed in which communication with the central control unit is carried out via a communication line network such as a public telephone line.

[Problems to be solved by the invention]

In a system in which management data of a plurality of copying machines is centrally managed by transmitting the management data of a plurality of copying machines to a central control unit on the center side via a communication line network, there are cases where connection with the central control unit cannot be established. For example, this may occur if calls from a large number of communication terminal devices occur one after another and the communication line on the center side is occupied, or if some malfunction occurs in the device on the center side. In such a case, it is desirable to automatically redial the call after a predetermined period of time, for example, to quickly connect to the center. However, as the above-mentioned communication terminal device and communication line network, general-purpose devices such as telephones and facsimile machines and line networks are often used. Therefore, when the probability of line connection with the center side is low (such as when a large number of calls are occurring at the same time), repeating the above redial operation wastefully occupies the user's line and the telephone etc., which is not desirable. The present invention aims to solve the above problems.

[Means to solve the problem]

The present invention sets a time designated by a random number from among times that satisfy predetermined allowable conditions as a redial time, and relaxes the predetermined allowable conditions when the number of redials exceeds a predetermined number. It is. That is, the copying machine management device of the present invention has an interface means with a communication terminal device, and a selection number signal of t that calls the communication terminal device on the central management device side. If the transmission control means for transmitting from the device to the communication line network and the central control device are not connected, a time within predetermined allowable conditions and specified by a random number is set as the retransmission time of the selected number signal. a retransmission time management means for setting a retransmission time; a redial control means for causing the communication line network to retransmit the selection number signal at the retransmission time and counting the number of retransmissions; After connecting to the central control device of the control center, the control data of the copying machine is transmitted. In the above, the predetermined call condition that causes a call to the management center is a condition that requires data transmission with the center for the purpose of managing the copying machine. For example, if a problem occurs,
This includes the occurrence of JAM. In addition, there may be cases where data is sent due to the need for periodic data transmission, such as data on the number of copies and control parameters for various parts. Further, the predetermined permissible conditions that limit the range of redial time selection include, for example, a time period within a predetermined time from the first call time, a dedicated time period set according to the priority of the call,
Alternatively, it may be given as a time period when line usage charges are low. Note that the priority of the call is determined depending on whether or not a prompt response is required on the center side.

[Effect]

When a predetermined call condition is met due to the occurrence of a trouble, etc., the call control means issues a command to call the center.
The selection number signal of the terminal device at the center is sent to the communication line network. If no connection is established with the center's central control device despite the above call, the resending time management means will set the redial time to a time specified by a random number from a time slot that satisfies predetermined allowable conditions. be done. At the redial time, the selection number signal of the terminal device at the center is again sent to the communication network. Furthermore, if a connection with the central management device of the center is not established despite the call, a redial time is set in the same manner. Through this process, when the number of calls to the center exceeds a predetermined number, the predetermined permissible conditions regarding the setting of the next redial time are relaxed. For example, the range of time slots that can be set as redial time is expanded. This prevents unnecessary monopolization of the user's communication line in the event that a connection to the center cannot be established due to duplication of center calls from multiple terminal devices. , it is possible to increase the probability of securing connection with the center.

【Example】

Hereinafter, an example of the present invention will be described. [1] Overall configuration of the system First, a system consisting of a "copy machine, data terminal (DT), communication line network (telephone line network), and center" will be explained. FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of this system, and FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of this system. This system includes a large number of user devices (only one user device is shown in the figure), a center device that is the administrator,
It consists of a communication line network that connects these. On the user side, there are 4 copy machines and 1 DT (data terminal).
A modem 52 as a communication terminal device is installed, and a telephone 53 as a normal communication device is installed. On the other hand, on the center side, which is the administrator, a modem 72 as a communication terminal device and a computer (main unit 90, display 92, keyboard 93, printer 94) are installed, as well as a telephone 73 as a normal communication device. has been done. The data terminal 1 receives various information from the copying machine 4,
This is a device that performs predetermined processing and transmits the data to a convenience store on the center side. The center side creates copy machine management data based on the transmitted data and takes necessary measures. Each device will be described below. Copying Machine 4> This is a device that forms a copy image on a sheet of paper by scanning an original image. The copying machine 4 collects various element data that affect the image forming process (paper transport time, surface potential of the photoreceptor drum, toner concentration in the developer, exposure amount of the photoreceptor drum, current bias voltage, on-photoreceptor drum surface potential, etc.). (toner adhesion amount, grid voltage of the charger, etc.) are detected by various sensor groups (not shown), are taken into the CPU 41 and processed, and then transmitted to the data terminal 10 CPU II via the serial I/F 43 and the serial I/F 13. . In addition,
The above-mentioned various element data will be referred to as element data XI (t=1
~number of items of element data). The copying machine 4 also has counters (talk counters indicating the number of paper ejections,
(counter by paper size that shows the number of times each paper size has been used)
, a counter that serves as a guideline for maintenance (J on the side
Each count value (JAM counter for each location indicating the number of AMs, trouble counter for each location indicating the number of troubles at the location, and PM counter for each component indicating the number of times each component is used) is counted, and the serial I/F 42 and serial I/F 42 It is sent to the CPU II of data terminal 1 via F12. Note that the PM counter is a counter that counts the number of times each component is used, and is used as a guide for when to replace the component. The copying machine 4 also has various key switches (for instructing the start of copying operation) on the operation panel (Fig. 4).
PR) key 46. Numeric keypad group 47 for manual numerical input. clear key 48 for instructing clearing of input data, etc.), various switch groups other than the operation panel (for example, trouble reset switch 49 for instructing trouble reset)
) in response to the signals from the serial I/F 42 and the serial I/F 12.
Send to CPU II of data terminal 1. Note that the data to be transmitted also includes numerical data displayed on the display section 45. <Data terminal 1> When the data from the copying machine 4 is taken in and a predetermined transmission condition (condition for setting the transmission flag to "1": see the explanation section of the flowchart for details) is met, the modem 52 is activated. This is a device that connects a communication line with the center side and transmits management data of the copier (the element data, count data, etc.) to the center's CPU 91. The control CPU II of the data terminal 1 includes a ROM 14 storing a control program, a non-volatile memory 16 for storing number data (described later), etc., a battery-backed system RAM 15 for work, and a battery-backed clock. IC17 is connected. As mentioned above, the CPU II transmits data transmitted from the copying machine 4 to the serial I/F 12 or the serial I/F
13 and executes predetermined processing. C.P.U.I.
I also performs predetermined operations, mode settings, etc., depending on the human power of the operating switch. These processes will be described in the section explaining the flowchart. Note that FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the data structure of the paper ejection code, JAM code, and trouble code, which are data input via the serial I/F 12. That is, the paper ejection code is bit b. The JAM code is shown as a falling edge of b), =1. It is expressed as b8=O. Also, the trouble code is bit bv
= 1. It is expressed as bs = 1. In addition, the third operation switch for the data terminal is
As shown in the diagram, there are four dip switches DIP-SW.
I to DIP-3W4 and a switch 21 are installed. DIP-3W4 is a switch for setting the initial setting mode. In addition, DIP-3W1 is the input mode for the center's selection number <ta call number), DIF-3W2 is the input mode for the data terminal 1 identification number (DT ID), and DIP-3W3 is for the center identification. I of
These are switches for setting the input mode of the D number (from the center). Also, Pushini Switch 2
Reference numeral 1 denotes a switch for instructing initial setting transmission (see 5145 in FIG. 8). In addition, the CPU II is a CPU I side communication interface (R3232CI/F) 18 %dam 52
Side communication interface (RS232CI/F) 51
is connected to a modem 52 which is a communication terminal device. That is, from the modem 52 via these devices,
By sending an off-footer signal and a center selection number signal to the communication line, the communication line with the center side modem 72 can be connected, and communication with the convenience store at the center can be performed. The contents of the data (data for managing the copying machine 4) transmitted from the data terminal 1 to the center side are determined by the type of the transmission flag set to "1", as will be described in detail later. A computer device configured to be connected to a large number of data terminals via a communication line network, and a device that centrally manages a large number of copying machines corresponding to each data terminal. be. In other words, from a large number of data terminals 1 side, a communication line network/
Modem 72/modem 72 side communication interface (R3
232CI/F) 7 Connecting the data terminal based on the data (the element data, count data, etc.) sequentially input to the CPU 91 via the computer side communication interface 7A4 (RS 232CI/F) 98. Management data is created that indicates the current state of the copying machine. Further, based on the management data, a bill is printed out, a decision is made as to whether or not to dispatch a service person, and furthermore, parts and the like to be prepared at the time of dispatch are selected. Note that when the reception of the data transmitted from the data terminal side is completed, the data is transmitted from the CPU 91 side to the data terminal 1 side. The details will be described later in the section explaining the flowchart. [2] System control Next, the control of this system will be explained. Processing in the Copying Machine> The processing in the control CPU 41 of the copying machine will be briefly described with reference to the flowchart in FIG. For example, the CPU 41 performs initial settings such as starting processing, clearing the memory, and setting the standard mode when the power is turned on (S41), and then performs steps 343 to S49.
Execute the process. Step S43 includes a group of key switches on the operation panel 40 (numeric keypad group 47 for numerical input, print (PR) key 46 for commanding to start copying, clear key 48 for command to clear set numbers, etc.), trouble reset switch Receiving and receiving human input signals from a group of switches such as 49 and a group of sensors (not shown) disposed inside the copying machine is a process. Further, step S47 is a step that collectively shows processes necessary for copying operations, etc., such as paper feeding control, scanning control, photosensitive drum control, developing device control, etc. On the other hand, if a JAM or other trouble occurs (
349; YES), data terminal 1 control CP
A signal corresponding to the trouble that has occurred is transmitted to Tjll (S51). Thereafter, when the trouble reset switch 49 is operated by an operator or the like (353;
YES), similarly to the above, a trouble reset signal is transmitted to the data terminal 10 control CPU II (S55). Processing at Data Terminal> Next, processing at the data terminal 10 control CPU II will be described with reference to flowcharts shown in FIGS. 7 to 14. (a) Main Routine First, an outline of the processing will be explained based on the main routine shown in FIG. The control CPU II starts processing when the power is turned on, executes initial setting processing (S13) as necessary, and then transmits a copy permission signal to the control CPU 41 of the copying machine (315). After that, steps 517 to S3
The process moves to the repeat loop process of step 5. In each subroutine step, the following processing is roughly executed. *Initial setting: 813 When turning on the power, dip switch DrP-S
This is executed when W4 is on, that is, when the initial setting mode is set (S 11 ; YES). As described later, the center selection number (telephone number) and DT ID
Number (DTID) - Set the center ID number (center ID) and make initial settings calls. *Count data reception: 817 Performs reception processing of various count data transmitted from the control CPU 41 of the copying machine. Data contents include discharge code, JAM/trouble code,
JAM/trouble counter, counter by paper size, P
It is an M counter. The control CPU II of the DT updates and holds these data to the latest values. Main element data reception/data processing: S19 As described later, the average value of each element and totator, and
Calculate the data corresponding to the standard deviation and update it to the latest value. *Trouble transmission determination: S21 As described later, it is determined whether or not trouble data and trouble recovery data should be transmitted to the center. * Scheduled transmission determination: S23 At a predetermined scheduled transmission time, the scheduled transmission flag is set to 1, and various count data and various element data are transmitted to the center. After the scheduled transmission is completed, the center sends back the next scheduled transmission time data, current time data, and bill cutoff date data. *Warning generation determination: 525 As described later, the element data, the count value of the JAM counter, and the count value of the PM counter are each compared with a predetermined threshold value. Also, based on the results, it is determined whether warning data and warning recovery data should be sent to the center. *Manual transmission determination: S27 When the button switch 21 is turned on when the mode is not the initial setting mode, the manual transmission flag is set to 1. As a result, various count data and various element data are transmitted to the center. *PM transmission judgment: 329 As described later, the count value is set to “0” by replacing parts.
The count value of the PM counter before clearing is sent to the center. *Call processing: 831 As described later, when any call flag is set to "1", the communication terminal device on the center side is called. Further, after the communication line is connected, data communication is executed. *Counter CT: S35 Every minute (S33; YES), counter C
"1" is added to T, and the remainder obtained by dividing the value after the addition by "7" is assigned to the counter CT (335). Regarding counter CT, redial time processing (14th
This will be explained in the section (Figure). (b) Subroutine Next, the details of each subroutine step are shown in Figures 8 to 1.
This will be explained based on FIG. *Initial setting process (Fig. 8) This process is performed when the dip switch D is turned on when the power is turned on.
When IP-3W4 is turned on (Sl 1 ; YE
This process is executed in step S), and after receiving the initial settings of the center selection number, data terminal ID number (DTID), and center ID number (center ID), the initial settings call is made. First, the memory 15 is initialized (5101) and waits for the dip switches DIP-3WI to DIP-5W3 to be turned on. When DIP-3WI is turned on (Sll; YES),
The mode will be for inputting the selected number (telephone number). That is, the first button on the display section 45 is manually operated using the numeric keypad 47 of the copying machine.
The numerical value displayed in the digit is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as center selection number data in response to the input of the print key 46 (3113, YES) (S115). Note that the selection number input mode is canceled by turning off the DIP-3WI (S117). Similarly, in response to turning on DIP-3W2 (Sl 21
; YES), the DTID input mode is set, and the number displayed in the first digit of the display section 45 is displayed on the print key 46.
(5123; YES), it is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as DTID data (S12
5). Further, the DTID input mode is canceled by turning off DIP-SW2 (S127>. Similarly, in response to turning on DIP-3W3 (Sl 31
; YES), the center ID input mode is set, and each time the print key 46 is input (8133; YES),
The numerical value displayed in the first digit of the display section 45 is stored in the nonvolatile memory 16 as center ID data (5
135). In addition, the center ID input mode is DIP-
It is canceled by turning off 3W3 (8137). In this way, when all three types of data settings are completed (S
141 ; YES), the bushing switch 21 is enabled, and by turning on the bushing switch 21, (31
43; YES), an initial setting call is made to the center (S145). In other words, after the line is connected to the center side, the center's CPU 9
1, the above two types of ID data are transmitted. Further, when the transmission is completed, the data transmitted from the center CPU 91 (the first regular transmission time on the closing date of the count data, the current time, and the threshold value for warning determination) is received. Moreover, when the above-mentioned transmission and reception is completed, it is determined whether the communication was performed normally (S147). As a result, if it is not performed normally (S147; N
o) Return to step 5111 and press the button switch 21.
Wait for the switch to turn on again. On the other hand, if the process is performed normally (S147; YES), the process returns to the main routine and processes from step 815 onwards are executed. *Reception of element data, etc. (FIG. 9) In this subroutine process, data for comparison with a threshold value (warning generation determination; see FIG. 11) is calculated based on the element data transmitted from the copying machine. First, the element data group XI, J transmitted from the copying machine each time a copy sheet is ejected is fetched from the serial editor/F13 (S201). Here, the subscript l represents the item number of the element data, and the subscript j represents the order within each item. Next, after assigning the initial value 1 to item number l (S203)
, for each item, maximum value XiMAxs minimum value XII
IIIN and sum X+k are updated sequentially (3205
~5217). After that, the subscript J is incremented (S219), and J
If is 4 or less, return to the main routine. In this way, steps 3201 to 5217 are performed four times for each item (S221; YES).
, after resetting the subscript J to 1 (S223), assign the initial value 1 to item number 1 (5225), and for each item, calculate the difference R1ws between the maximum value and the minimum value and the average value Xlk of the four data, Calculate each (5227 to 523
3). Note that step 5229 is the next step 82.
In preparation for processing from 05 to 5211, the maximum value XIXAX and minimum value X I) I! This is a step of giving an initial value of N. After the processing in steps 5227 to 5233 above, step 823
7 to 5245 or steps 3247 to 8263 are executed. Steps 8237 to 5245 are the steps 5227 to 523 described above.
This is a process when the cumulative total of the processes in step 3 has not reached 33 times, and for each item, the difference between the maximum value and the minimum value R1
This is a step of calculating the sum R+5uxs of k and the sum X1sU,I of the average value Xlk of the previous 8 and 4 pieces of data for 32 times of data. On the other hand, steps 8247 to 5263 are the steps 5227 to 5263 described above.
This is a process when the cumulative total of 5233 processes is 33 or more, and for each item, the sum of the above differences R1k RLSLI
ms and the sum X1sUx of the above average value Xlk, the latest 3
This step is to calculate the average value F for each of the two data as well as calculate the average value x of the latest 128 (=4×32) pieces of data for each item of element data.
1, and the average value of the deviation (a value corresponding to the standard deviation) is obtained. *Trouble call determination (Figure 10) This process is a subroutine that manages trouble call and trouble recovery call. That is, in the state of "trouble flag = 0"(S301;
YES) When a trouble code from the copying machine is detected (3303; YES), the trouble flag and the trouble transmission flag are set to "1" (S3).
05). Also, in the state of “trouble flag = 1” (S301; N
o) When the paper ejection code from the copier is detected (S
307; YES),) The trouble flag is reset to "0", and the trouble recovery transmission flag is set to "1" (5309). This is because paper ejection in a copying machine is an operation that is performed after a trouble has been resolved. Note that the call process (FIG. 13) is executed by setting the trouble call flag and the trouble recovery call flag, and trouble data and trouble recovery data are respectively transmitted to the center. *Warning transmission determination (Fig. 11) In this process, warning transmission, etc. are managed. Steps 8401 to 5427 are processes for issuing a warning when the value of element data falls outside of the permissible range specific to the data, and issuing a recovery warning when the value returns to within the permissible range. . First, an initial value "1" is set to item number 1 indicating the type of element data (5401). Next, in step 5411, a warning flag for the target element data (first element data for the first time) is determined. As a result, if the warning flag for the element data is "0"(S411; YES), whether or not the element data value is within the allowable range specific to the element data, in other words, the upper limit Determine whether it is within the range of less than the threshold value Ill and more than the lower limit threshold value IL,
If it is outside the above tolerance range (3413; YES,
or 5415; YES), the warning flag F1% and the warning transmission flag for the element data are each set to "1" (5417). As a result, the call process (FIG. 13) is executed, and warning data is sent to the center. On the other hand, if the warning flag of the target element data is "1" in step 5411 (S411; No),
It is determined whether the value of the element data has returned to the above tolerance range, and if it has returned, (5421; YES,
and 3423; YES), the warning flag F1 for the element data is reset to "0", and the warning recovery transmission flag is set to "1". As a result, TEPCO processing (Figure 13) is executed, and the center receives
Alert recovery data is sent. After performing this process until l reaches the number of element data items, in other words, after performing this process for all element data, the process moves to step 3431 and subsequent steps. Steps 8431 to 5445 are the JAM counter and 2
This is a process for issuing a warning when the count value (frequency) of the M counter exceeds a specific dark value, and issuing a warning recovery when the count value (frequency) of the M counter exceeds the unique dark value. First, the initial value "1 (value of the last number of element data + 1)" is set to the item number m indicating the type of JAM counter and 2M counter (5431). Next, in step 8433, the warning flag for the target JAM counter or 2M counter is determined. As a result, if the warning flag for the JAM counter or 2M counter is “0” (3433; YES)
), it is determined whether the value of the counter is within the permissible range specific to the counter, that is, whether it exceeds the threshold value, and if it is exceeded (S435; YES), a warning flag is set for the counter. F and the warning transmission flag to “1”,
Set each (S437). As a result, the call process (FIG. 13) is executed and warning data is sent to the center. On the other hand, in step 8433, if the warning flag for the target JAM counter or 2M counter is "1"(3433; No), it is determined whether the value of the counter has returned to below the threshold value. , if it returns (344
1; YES), warning flag F for the counter,
is reset to 0''', and the warning recovery transmission flag is set to 0'''.
1". This executes the call processing (Fig. 13) and sends warning recovery data to the center. This processing is performed until m reaches the total number of counter and element data items. In other words, after all the counters have been processed, the process returns to the main routine. As described above, warning transmission and warning recovery transmission are managed. *PM transmission determination (Figure 12) In the process, PM transmission is managed. First, the initial value "Item number indicating the type of 2M counter" is set.
1" (5501), steps 8503 to 55
After executing the process No. 11, the value of 1 is incremented, that is, the type of the 2M counter is changed, and the above process is repeated. Here, the processing of steps 5503 to 5511 above is performed when the 2M counter is cleared (3505; YES and 5
507 ; YES'), the count value of the 2M counter immediately before clearing is saved (S509), and the PM transmission flag is set to "1" (S511). In addition,
The 2M counter is cleared by a service person when replacing a part corresponding to the 2M counter. Also, when "PM call flag = 1" is set, the call processing (
``i13) is executed, and PM data (type of replaced part, count value immediately before replacement) is sent to the center. *Call processing (Figure 13) The center is called in response to the call flag; 1'', and data corresponding to the call flag is transmitted. That is, when any call flag is set to ``1'', the center is called (
5601; YES), not in redial standby (
5603; No), the line with the center is not connected (5605; No), and the modem 52 is not on standby after sending an off-footer signal and selection signal command <3607;No>. A command is given to send an off-hook signal and a selection signal (5609). Also, as a result of the process in step 5609, if the telephone 53 is in one call, and therefore the modem 52 cannot send the off-footer signal and selection signal to the communication network (S61
1 ; YES), the above 560 is repeated after a certain period of time.
In order to execute the process of step 9, a redial time (a time after the above-mentioned certain period of time) is set (5613). As a result, the determination in step 5603 becomes "YES" and the process in step 5609 is not executed until the redial time is reached. In addition, when the above redial time comes, 5603;No
→5605. No.→5607; By No-5609,
The modem 52 is again instructed to send an off-hook signal and a selection signal. In addition, as a result of the off-hook signal and selection signal being sent from the modem 52 to the communication line network in accordance with the processing in step 5609, the center side modem 72 is in one call (even though the connection with the modem 72 is established, the CPtJ91 (including cases where there is no response)” (S 615 ; YE
S), execute the redial time processing (Fig. 14) and (
5617), at the time set in the process, the above 5
609 is executed. Note that redial time processing (
S617) will be described later. On the other hand, as a result of sending an off-hook signal and a selection signal from the modem 52 to the communication line network in accordance with the process in step 5609, when the communication line with the center side modem 72 is connected (3605; YES), the modem 52 After waiting for the ready (S621; YES), the data is transmitted to the center (S625). The data to be sent is “1”
This data is specified by the origination flag set to . In this way, when all data is transmitted (3623; Y
ES), reset the above call flag to “0”562
7) Also, the communication line with the center side modem 72 is disconnected (S629). The chamber processing is performed as described above, data is transmitted to the center, and data is received from the center as necessary. *Redial time processing (FIG. 14) This processing is for setting the re-calling (redial) time when the DT cannot be connected to the center due to circumstances on the center side. First, a counter for counting the number of redials (redial counter) is counted up (S651). In addition,
The counter is cleared after connection with the center. Next, it is determined whether or not the current call is made in emergency mode (in the case of a trouble call), and if it is in emergency mode (S653; YES), the redial counter value is a number of times ( = about 10 to 20 times) or less (
3655; YES), the time one minute from now is set as the next call (redial) time (S657). That is, in the case of emergency mode, the center is called every minute until the number of redials exceeds a times. However, if the set time is in the prohibited time zone, (868
5; No, or 5687; No), reset the redial time. Note that the processing in steps 5681 to 5687 will be described later. Note that if the number of redials in the emergency mode exceeds a times (3655; No), a predetermined time on the next day is set as the redial time (S659). If you cannot connect to the center despite making a number of calls (possibly due to line abnormality, center computer stoppage, etc.)
This is to avoid hogging the user's phone. On the other hand, if it is determined in step 5653 that the mode is not in emergency mode (3653; No), that is, if the call was made due to a cause other than a trouble call, the condition is that the redial counter value is less than or equal to b times (S661 ;YES)
, Set any even minute time within 20 minutes from the current time as the next call (redial) time using a random number (36
63). That is, redial is performed within 20 minutes. This is to spread out the redial times of each DT when calls to the center are made from a large number of DTs, thereby increasing the possibility that each DT can connect to the center. However, as in the case of an emergency, if the set time is within the call prohibition period, (3685, No. 9 or 5687; No.
), reset the redial time. In addition, if the number of redials in non-emergency mode exceeds b times (5661; No), and on the condition that it is less than or equal to c times (S 665; YES), any even number within 40 minutes from now. The time is set as the next calling time using a random number in the same manner as above (S667). That is, 4
Redial within 0 minutes. This further increases the possibility of connecting to the center by scattering the redial times of each DT over a wider range than in step 8663 when calls to the center occur from a large number of DTs. be. However, similarly to the above, if the set time is within the outgoing call prohibition time zone (3685; No, or 5687; No), the redial time is reset. Furthermore, if the number of redials in non-emergency mode exceeds 0 times and is less than d times (8669; YES)
, an arbitrary time within 40 minutes from the current time is set as the next calling time using random numbers as described above (S671). That is, the condition of even minute time is canceled and step 566 is performed.
The number of selectable times is increased compared to case 7 to increase the possibility of connecting to the center. Then, in step 8, in order to allow outgoing calls even if the set time is a prohibited outgoing time period, step 8
Jump over 681-5687 and return directly. Note that if the number of redials in the non-emergency mode exceeds d times (S669; No), a predetermined time on the next day is set as the redial time (S673). If you are unable to connect to the center despite making d calls (possibly due to line abnormality, center computer stoppage, etc.)
This is to avoid hogging the user's phone. Steps 5681 to 5687 are performed when the set redial time is within the outgoing call prohibition time zone (S685; No;
Or 5687; No), this is the process for resetting the redial time. As shown in FIG. 7, every time one minute passes (S33; YES), the CPU II increments the counter variable CT by "1", divides it by "7", and uses the remainder as
It is assigned to the counter variable CT (335). That is, C
The TO value changes from 0-1-2-3 to 4-5 every minute.
-6-0-... It changes at low temperature. Note that CT=0 to 3 are the transmission permitted time periods for low priority transmissions, and CT=4 to 6 are transmission permitted time periods for high priority transmissions (see FIG. 18). In step 5681, the current time χ is added to the CT, divided by "7", the remainder is calculated, and the remainder is assigned to the counter variable CTX.
can be made equivalent to the above CT. That is, CTX
= O to 3 are allowed time slots for low-priority calls, and C
TX=4 to 6 can be set as the transmission permission time period for high-priority transmission. In this way, the determinations in steps 5685 and 5687 can be made. In addition, by assigning the permissible time slot for each call according to the priority of the call,
The probability of connection with the center can be increased. In other words, as shown in Fig. 18, even if connection cannot be established for the first time, by the time the high-priority call is re-called, the transmission of the other low-priority device has finished, and Since calls from other devices with a low level are prohibited, the probability of connection with the management center increases. <Processing at the center> Next, the CPU installed in the center computer
The processing at step 91 will be explained with reference to FIGS. 15 to 17. (a) Fl to F7F2 key operations 15) The CPU 91 starts processing by turning on the power, and first executes environment settings for the modem, printer, etc. (561). Thereafter, the following mode is set or the following process is executed in accordance with the manual operation of each of the keys Fl to F7. - F1 key operation (S63; YES) Sets the reception mode for model registration (S65). That is, new registrations such as model name, number of element data items, name of each element data, standard threshold value of each element data, standard threshold value of each counter, etc. are accepted. - F2 key operation (367; YES) Sets the user master registration reception mode (S69). That is, new registrations such as user name, address, phone number, model name, and scheduled call date and time are accepted. Also, DTID
automatically set. - F3 key operation (571; YES) Displays the trouble status (373). That is, the user information (user name, address, telephone number, model name) of the copying machine to which the trouble was reported, the date and time of occurrence, etc. are displayed on the display 92 together with the details of the trouble. Note that the number of troubles is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F3 key. - F4 key operation (S75; YES) Displays the warning status (S77). That is, the user information of the copying machine for which the warning was issued is displayed on the display 92 together with the content of the warning. Note that the number of warnings is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F4 key. - F5 key operation (S79; YES) Displays the unreceived status (581). That is, the user information of a copying machine that does not make a scheduled call even after a predetermined scheduled call time is displayed on the display 92. Note that the number of unreceived messages is always displayed at the corner of the display 92, regardless of the operation of the F4 key. - F6 key operation (583; YES) Enters user data display mode (S85). That is, when a user is selected, user information is displayed on the display 92. Also, when a submenu is selected, the count values of various counters (total counter, paper size counter, JAM counter, trouble counter, PM counter) and element data of the user copying machine are displayed by month or by item. do. - F7 key operation (387; YES) Prints out the bill (S89). For example, the billing amount is calculated based on the count value of the total counter and a predetermined calculation formula, and the printer 94 is activated to print out the bill. (b) Interrupt processing (Figs. 16 and 17) The CPU 91
Receive data sent from DT by interrupt processing,
Further, predetermined processing is performed on the received data (S91).
. First, an interrupt occurs from the DT side. Then, the DTID and transmission data are received (S901). In addition, if a communication error occurs, (5903; YE
S) Requests the DT side to retransmit the DTID and transmission data, on the condition that the number of occurrences of the error is less than or equal to a predetermined number (S913: YES) (5905). In addition, if the number of occurrences of the above error exceeds a predetermined number of times (S91
3; N○), the line is disconnected (S 909). On the other hand, if the communication ends normally (5907; YES),
After the line is disconnected (5909), aggregation is performed for each item and month, and data for screen display according to operator selection is created (S911). Control in this system is performed as described above.

[Effect of Hathu]

As described above, the present invention sets a time specified by a random number from among times that satisfy predetermined allowable conditions as a redial time when a line cannot be connected to the center side, and also sets the redial number to a predetermined number of times. If the number of times exceeds the limit, the copying machine management lid relaxes the predetermined allowable conditions. According to the present invention, first, a time specified by a random number under predetermined permissible conditions is set as a redial time. That is, the redial times from each data terminal are scattered in time slots assigned according to the priority of the call, etc., thereby increasing the probability of connection at the time of redial. In addition, if the number of redials above exceeds the predetermined number,
In other words, if it is assumed that a large number of center calls are occurring from a large number of data terminals, the above-mentioned permissible conditions are relaxed. This further increases the probability of connection during redialing. In this way, the risk of occupying the user's communication terminal device due to wasteful redialing and preventing the user from using the telephone or the like is reduced.

[Brief explanation of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of the system in which the embodiment device is used, FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the circuit configuration of the system, FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram of the operation switch of the embodiment device, and FIG.
The figure is an explanatory diagram of the operation panel of the copying machine to which the embodiment device is connected, FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram of the structure of data transmitted from the copying machine to the embodiment device, and FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing the processing of FIG. 7 to 14 are flowcharts showing the processing by the control CPU of the embodiment device, in which FIG. 7 is the main routine, FIG. 8 is the initial setting processing subroutine, and FIG. 9 is the element data reception/data processing subroutine. , FIG. 10 shows the trouble call determination subroutine, FIG. 11 shows the warning call determination subroutine, and FIG. 12 shows the warning call determination subroutine.
The figure shows the PM transmission determination subroutine, FIG. 13 shows the chamber processing subroutine, and FIG. 14 shows the redial time processing subroutine. FIG. 15 to FIG. 17 show the control C of the center computer connected to the embodiment device via the communication line network.
15 is a flowchart showing the processing in the PU, FIG. 15 shows the main part of the main routine, FIG. 16 shows the interrupt processing, and FIG. 17 shows the details of the interrupt processing. FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram of the relationship between call prohibition time periods and call modes. 1...Data terminal (DT>, 4...Copy 11j,
90... Center combination coater. DT CPU, 41... Copy machine CP - Center CPtJ. SWI~DIP-SW4...Dip 21...Bush switch. DT side modem, 72... Center one side upper... DT side telephone, 73... Center 11... U, 91... DIP switch. 52... Dem, 53 side telephone.

Claims (2)

[Claims] (1) A copying machine management device that calls a central control device of a control center via a communication line network according to predetermined transmission conditions and transmits copying machine management data to the central control device, the communication terminal device an interface means for transmitting a selection number signal for calling the communication terminal device on the central control device side from the communication terminal device on the copying machine side to the communication line network; retransmission time management means for setting a time within predetermined allowable conditions and specified by a random number as the retransmission time of the selection number signal, if the connection with the central control device is not established; At the retransmission time, redial control means causes the communication line network to retransmit the selection number signal and counts the number of retransmissions, and when the number of retransmissions exceeds a predetermined number, the predetermined permissible condition is met. A copying machine management device comprising means for changing the direction of loosening. (2) In claim 1, the predetermined permissible condition is a time period that is set according to the priority of the predetermined transmission condition, and the change in the direction of loosening the permissible condition is based on the permissible condition. This is a change that releases the copy machine management device.