JPH06178066A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To previously prevent an attempt itself of forgery and to speedily alarm it to a manager by starting a connecting means for a communication line and connecting it to a service center when it is judged that a read original is a paper money or the like. CONSTITUTION:A data terminal fetches the various kinds of information from a connected copy machine 4, performs prescribed processing, starts a modem 52 as needed and enables data communication with a connected party by connecting the communication line with the service center side or connecting the communication line with the other copy machine in the same system. For example, when the attempt of copy is performed to the image of a prescribed copy inhibited object such as the paper money, check, securities or gift certificate registered on an EEP-ROM, the information is transmitted by connecting the service center side. When the line can not be connected because the service center side is busy, the information is transmitted by connecting the line through an extension, PBX or line wire to the other device.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having a forgery prevention function for bills and the like and capable of data communication with an administrator side via a communication line.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art JP-A-55-111977 and JP-A-2-7328
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 3-210591 and Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-210591 disclose devices that can prevent counterfeiting of banknotes, checks, securities and the like.

The apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 55-111977 detects a pattern of an original during a copying operation and compares it with a predetermined pattern to be prohibited from copying. This is a device that hinders image formation. Further, the apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-73283 detects whether or not the original image is a copy-prohibited document during image reading / recording operation, and when it is determined that the document is a copy-prohibited document. Then, it is a device that performs processing such as overwriting solid black on the images recorded up to that point. The apparatus disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-210591 detects the position of a document to detect an image pattern of a specific portion, determines the degree of similarity with a pattern registered in advance, and determines the similarity. It is a device that determines whether the original is a bill or the like based on the degree.

A method has been proposed in which management data for a plurality of copying machines is transmitted to a single central processing unit and the processing units collectively process the data (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 54-54032). Further, an apparatus for managing a plurality of copying machines by transmitting management data of each copying machine to a single central control unit via each terminal device and processing the same by the control unit. It has been proposed (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 54-44522). In addition, the management center
A method of managing a copying machine online has been disclosed by the applicant (Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 4-50958, etc.).

[0005]

The devices described in JP-A-55-111977, JP-A-2-73283, JP-A-2-210591, etc. are all bills, checks, securities, etc. This device is intended to make counterfeiting impossible. For this reason, it does not have a function of preventing the forgery attempt itself. Also, with these devices, bills, checks,
The pattern of securities, etc. is registered in advance, and by comparing this pattern with the pattern of the manuscript, it is judged whether the manuscript is a banknote or the like.・ Patterns such as securities may be changed. There is also a case where a certain pattern is designated according to the situation and the forgery is intensively prevented. Therefore, it is desirable to be able to deal with these circumstances.

It is an object of the present invention to prevent a forgery attempt itself and to promptly notify an administrator when a forgery attempt is made. Another object of the present invention is to make it possible to easily change the registered pattern of banknotes, checks, securities, etc. according to the situation.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, image reading means for generating an electric signal corresponding to an original image and image recording means for reproducing an image corresponding to the electric signal on a sheet. And data related to images for which image recording is prohibited.
A prohibition data storage means for storing data, and whether or not the image corresponding to the electric signal is an image recording prohibition target image based on the electric signal and the data of the prohibition data storage means. Judgment judging means, communication line connecting means, partner storage means for storing data for connecting to a predetermined transmission partner, and an image corresponding to the electrical signal is an image for which image recording is prohibited. If it is determined by the determining means that the connection means is activated, the connection means is activated to connect the communication line with the transmission destination stored in the destination storage means. An image forming apparatus, comprising: communication data control means for transmitting the determination result of the determination means after the communication line is connected.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, image reading means for generating an electric signal corresponding to an original image, image recording means for reproducing an image corresponding to the electric signal on a sheet,
An image corresponding to the electric signal is prohibited from being recorded based on the electric signal and the data of the electric data and the prohibition data storage means. Program storage means for storing a program in which an algorithm for determining whether or not the image is a target image, and an image corresponding to the electric signal in accordance with the program of the program storage means are images for which image recording is prohibited. Determining means for determining whether or not the communication line is connected to the communication line, identification information storing means for storing identification information for identifying the administrator, and the communication line from the administrator side to be collated with the identification information. Image updating means for updating the data of the prohibited data storing means and / or the program of the program storing means in accordance with an input signal received via A forming apparatus.

[0009]

According to the first aspect of the invention, when the document read by the image reading means is judged by the judging means to be an image for which image recording is prohibited, the connection controlling means activates the connecting means and the other party. The communication line with the transmission destination stored in the storage means is connected, and after the connection is completed, the communication data
The control result is transmitted to the transmission destination by the control unit.

According to the invention of claim 8, through a communication line,
When data for loading to the prohibited data storage means and / or data for loading to the program storage means is transmitted from the administrator side, the data updating means causes the data to be updated. ,
The data in the prohibited data storage means and / or the data in the program storage means are updated by the above-mentioned data received from the communication line. That is, the download is performed from the administrator side. Thereafter, the determination by the determination means (determination as to whether or not the original read by the image reading means is an image for which image recording is prohibited) is performed in accordance with the updated program and / or with reference to the updated data. Done.

[0011]

EXAMPLES Examples of the present invention will be described below. [1] System in which example apparatus is installed [2] Mechanism of example apparatus [3] Banknote detection system of example apparatus [4] Management center side The data communication will be described in this order.

[1] System in which the apparatus of the embodiment is installed [1-1] Outline of system The digital color copying machine 4 of the embodiment is as shown in FIG.
"Data terminal (DT) 1-modem 52-extension-private branch exchange (PBX) -extension-modem 52-N of another copying machine-DT1-N of another copying machine" Other copiers
It is provided so that it can be connected to 4-N. In addition, the copying machine 4 of the embodiment is a "DT1 modem 52 extension line private branch exchange (PB
X) / External line / center modem 72 ', which is provided so as to be connectable to the host computer 90 of the service center.

The above system is composed of a large number of user side devices, service center side devices, and a communication line network connecting them, but in the figure, a certain one user is shown. Multiple devices (in the same premises) are shown. That is, N
Copy machine 4 ・ DT1 ・ Modem 52 ・ Adjunct telephone 53 and M
A stand-alone telephone 53 'and an analog PBX are shown. In the following description, N copiers 4 and N DTs
To indicate any one of 1 etc., copy machine 4-i,
Like DT1-i or copier 4-j, DT1-j,
It shall be shown as an alphanumeric character after the code separated by "-".

The DT1 takes in various information of the connected copying machine 4 and performs predetermined processing, and activates the modem 52 as necessary to connect the communication line with the service center side. Alternatively, it is a device that enables data communication with a connection partner by connecting a communication line with another copying machine in the same premises. For example, when an attempt is made to copy an image of a predetermined copy prohibition object registered in the EEP-ROM 49 (FIG. 3) such as banknotes, checks, securities, gift certificates, etc. A connection is made and information to that effect is transmitted. If the service center side is busy and cannot connect, the extension / P
The device is connected to another device via the BX / external line, or via the extension / PBX / extension, and the information to that effect is transmitted.

In the case of data communication by extension, for example, the modem 52-i of DT1-i to the modem 52-j of DT1-j.
Extension number is sent, and after connection, DT1-i to DT1-j
The extension data communication between the terminals is enabled. Further, in the case of data communication by an outside line, processing such as adding "0" to the head as an outside line selection number is performed.

The above service center is provided with a computer device having a CPU 91 (FIG. 4). The CPU 91 is a modem having a function as a communication terminal device.
Connected to the communication line by 72. That is, CPU91
Is the communication I / F (RS232CI / F) 98 of the CPU 91.
The modem 72 is connected to the modem 72 via a communication I / F (RS232CI / F) 71. In addition, the CPU 91
Display 92, keyboard 93, printer 94, RAM97
Etc. are connected. In this service center,
Processing for managing each copying machine of each user is performed.

For example, various data of the copying machine 4-k transmitted from the user side to the service center (element data relating to the state of the copying machine 4-k, copying of the copying machine 4-k). -Counting data such as the number of sheets, data indicating that copying of bills and the like has been attempted by the copying machine 4-k), and the communication I / F (RS232CI / F) 71 / CPU 91 of the modem 72 / modem 72 Communication I
/ F (RS232CI / F) 98 is input to the CPU 91 and processed by the CPU 91. As a result, data for managing the copying machine 4-k is created or updated. In addition, the copy machine 4-k to the
In the data communication between the service centers, data is transferred from the service center side to the copying machine 4-k side (data such as banknotes and other images for which copying is prohibited, originals are subject to copying). (A program in which an algorithm that determines whether or not to write is written, etc.)
Is transmitted, and thereby the data on the copying machine 4-k side is updated.

[1-2] Circuit Configuration of System The circuit configuration of the system will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4.

In the copying machine 4, various element data affecting the image forming process (paper transport required time, surface potential of the photosensitive drum, toner density in developer, photosensitive drum exposure amount, developing bias voltage) , Toner on photoconductor drum
The amount of deposits on the copying machine, the grid voltage of the charging charger, and the amount of environment such as temperature and humidity at the installation location of copying machine 4)
It is detected by various sensor groups arranged at various places of 4. These detected data are processed by the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 and then transmitted to the CPU 11 of DT1 via the serial I / F 43 and the serial I / F 13. Also, copier
When the image reader section 4 detects that an image of a copy prohibition object such as a banknote has been read (a detection method will be described later), information to that effect is similarly transmitted to the CPU 11 of the DT1. .

Further, in the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4, a counter (total counter showing the number of paper discharge times, a paper counter for each paper size (paper feed port) serving as basic data of the billing amount calculated at the service center side, etc. Count) of a counter for each size indicating the number of sheets used), and a counter serving as a guide for maintenance (JAM for each location indicating the number of JAMs for each location)
The counter, the trouble counter for each location indicating the number of troubles at each location, and the PM counter for each component indicating the number of times of use for each component) are counted respectively, and serial I / F
42-Sent to the CPU 11 of the DT1 via the serial I / F 12.

The CPU 41 is connected to the image reader section and the printer section, and also has an operation panel.
Various key switch groups on 40 (print key for copying start command, numeric keypad for inputting numerical values, clear key for input clear command, etc.) and other than the operation panel 40. It is connected to various switch groups (trouble reset switch for instructing reset of trouble, etc.). Further, on the operation panel 40, various states of the copying machine 4 (eg, during warm-up, paper jam in the paper feed section, etc.), a message indicating that forgery prevention measures such as bills are taken, etc. Is provided as necessary.

The CPU 41 has a RAM 44 and an EE.
A P-ROM 49 is connected. The RAM 44 stores the model name, serial number, etc. of the copying machine 4 at the time of factory shipment. These data are DT
When 1 is attached to the copying machine 4, it is transmitted to the CPU 11 via the serial I / F 42 and the serial I / F 12. EEP-
The ROM 49 stores a reference pattern for detecting a copy-inhibited document such as a bill. This reference pattern is rewritable by a command from the service center side. The detection method and the method of downloading from the service center side will be described later.

The CPU 11 of the DT1 collects and processes various data of the copying machine 4. Further, when the condition for calling the service center (the condition that any one of the outgoing flags is set to 1) is satisfied, the call processing (FIGS. 14 to 16) is performed.
Is executed to activate the modem 52. As a result, the data (element data, count data, paper money, etc.) for managing the copying machine 4 is copied by connecting to the service center side via the communication line (extension line / PBX / outside line). The data to the effect) is transmitted to the CPU 91 of the service center, and the data from the service center is received and a predetermined process is performed. The kind of data transmitted to the service center side is determined by the kind of the transmission flag.

In order to enable the above connection, the CPU 11 of the DT1 is a communication terminal device via the communication I / F (RS232CI / F) 18 and the communication I / F (RS232CI / F) 51 of the modem 52. It is connected to a certain modem 52, and the modem 52 is connected to the PBX via an extension line. Further, the PBX can be connected to the modem 72 of the service center via an external line (public telephone line).

Further, the CPU 11 is connected with an EP-ROM in which a control program is stored, a non-volatile memory (NV-RAM) in which number data and the like are stored, a work RAM, a clock IC and the like. There is. In the NV-RAM, in addition to the external line selection number of the service center, the external line selection numbers of other managers (low priority managers) to be dialed when the service center cannot be connected, Same PB
Extension numbers of other copying machines managed by X are also stored.

[2] Mechanism of the apparatus of the embodiment Next, referring to FIG. 2, the digital color copying machine 4 of the embodiment.
The mechanism of is explained. The copying machine 4 comprises an image reading section (image reader section) 30 and an image recording section (printer section) 20.

In the image reading section 30, the original image is read and an electric signal is generated, and based on the electric signal, image data for driving a laser diode is generated. That is, a document placed on the platen glass 31 with its image surface facing downward is first exposed and scanned by the scanner 32. This allows
The image reflected light is photoelectrically converted into an electric signal corresponding to the original image by an image sensor (CCD) 33 mounted on the scanner 32. Next, this electric signal is input to the image signal processing section 34 and subjected to a predetermined process to be image data for driving a laser diode. This image data is sent to the print head controller 35. The scanner 32 is moved by the driving force of the pulse motor 36 during scanning.

In the image recording section 20, the electrostatic latent image written on the surface of the photosensitive drum 24 by the laser light L is displayed by the toner of the corresponding color (cyan C, magenta M, yellow Y, black Bk). After being developed respectively, they are transferred one after another onto the paper wound around the transfer drum 10 in sequence, and then fixed by thermocompression bonding by a fixing device 48. If it is determined that the document is an image recording prohibition target, the Bk toner
At the time of forming the electrostatic latent image for printing, not the image corresponding to the document but the "invalid" font pattern is written on the photosensitive drum 24 by the laser light L.

The laser device 21 controlled by the print head controller 35 first outputs laser light L. This laser light L is incident on the surface of the photosensitive drum 40 which is being rotated at a constant speed, and is also transmitted by an optical system in the laser device 21 so as to scan the photosensitive drum 24 in the axial direction. Have been guided. Therefore, an electrostatic latent image corresponding to the image data is formed on the surface of the photosensitive drum 24. The photosensitive drum 24 is uniformly charged on the upstream side of the incident position of the laser light L.

The electrostatic latent image formed on the photosensitive drum 24 is
Next, the developing device provided in the developing device 6 (developing device 6C for cyan toner, developing device 6M for magenta toner, developing device 6Y for yellow toner, developing device 6k for black toner).
And then visualized. The selection of the developing device is performed by a command from the CPU 41. The vertical movement of the developing device 6 for setting the selected developing device at the developing position is performed by the driving force of the developing unit motor 61.

The developed and visualized toner image is then transferred onto the paper wound around the transfer drum 10 by the suction force of the transfer charger 14. Here, the sheet is pulled out from any one of the sheet trays 142 to 144 or the intermediate tray 50, and is conveyed to the timing roller pair 45 by the conveying roller group, and then at a predetermined timing.
It is wrapped around 10. In addition, 111 is an adsorption charger for adsorbing the paper, 16 and 17 are static elimination chargers for separating the paper, 18
0 is a separation claw for separating paper. In addition, the photosensitive drum 24
The transfer drum 10 is driven in synchronization by the drum drive motor 22.

The sheet on which the toner images of maximum four colors (at the time of full color) have been transferred in this manner is then peeled off from the transfer drum 10 and conveyed to the fixing device 48 by the conveying belt 47. After being subjected to image fixing processing by thermocompression bonding,
Output to the output tray 490 outside the machine, or the intermediate tray 50
Is stored in. When the image is switched back by the reversing device 151 before being stored in the intermediate tray 50, the next image is formed on the back surface side. In addition, the conveyor rollers and the conveyor belt 47
Etc. are driven by the main motor 410.

[3] Banknote Detection Method of Embodiment Device [3-1] Overview of Banknote Detection Method Next, referring to FIG. 7 and with reference to FIG. 5 and FIG. An outline of the detection method will be described. FIG. 7 shows C
An outline of the copy control processing (S49) executed in the processing (FIG. 6: described later) in the PU 41 is shown. From this CPU 41,
Commands are issued to the jig reader unit and the printer unit, respectively.

In the copy control process (S49), first, the paper is drawn out from the paper trays 142 to 144, wound on the transfer drum 10 and chucked, and the rotation of the polygon mirror in the laser device 21. Is instructed to start (S10
1). Next, the image reader unit is instructed to start the preliminary scan (scan for detecting the document size, type, etc.) (S103).

Further, preliminary discrimination is executed based on the image data read by the preliminary scanning (S105). This is because the original image is an original whose image recording is prohibited (notes are banknotes here, but the same applies to checks, securities, gift certificates, etc.)
This is a process for determining whether there is a possibility that Details of the preliminary determination will be described later.

If it is determined in the preliminary determination in step S105 that the above possibility does not exist (S107; NO), a normal copying operation is instructed. That is, the image reader unit is instructed to set the image reading speed to the normal speed, and the printer unit is instructed to set the printing speed to the normal speed. (S111).

Thereafter, first, an image reading operation for the cyan toner is instructed to the image reader section and (S
113), the image forming operation by the cyan toner is instructed to the printer unit (S115). When the image reading and image formation for the cyan toner is completed (S117; NO), the same command is issued for the magenta toner. Further, the same instruction is given for the yellow toner and the black toner. In this way, when the image reading and image formation for the four colors are completed (S117; YES), the paper is peeled off from the transfer drum 10, the fixing processing is performed by the fixing device 48, and then the paper is discharged to the paper discharge tray 490 outside the machine. (S145).

On the other hand, if it is determined in the preliminary determination in step S105 that the above possibility exists (S107; YES), the copying operation is instructed at a slower speed than usual, and the main determination is performed during that time. To be executed.

First, the image reader unit is instructed to set the image reading speed to a speed slower than usual,
Further, the printer unit is instructed to set the print speed to a speed slower than usual (S121).

Next, an image reading operation for cyan toner is instructed to the image reader section (S123), and the main discrimination is executed based on the read image data (S125). Details of this determination will be described later. As a result of this final determination, when the original is not determined to be a banknote (S127; NO), the electrostatic latent image formed based on the above image data is developed on the cyan toner, and then on the paper. It is transcribed (S131).

When the image formation for the cyan toner is completed (S133; NO), the same command is issued for the magenta toner. As a result, when it is not determined that the document is a bill by the image data for the magenta toner (S127; N
O), similarly, development and transfer with a magenta toner are performed (S131, S133; NO). Further, the same instruction is given to the yellow toner and then the black toner, and the same processing is performed. Thus, when the image formation for the four colors is completed
(S133; YES), the paper is peeled from the transfer drum 10, the fixing process is performed by the fixing device 48, and then the paper is ejected to the paper ejection tray 490 outside the machine (S145).

On the other hand, if it is determined that the original is a bill as a result of any of the main determinations in step S125 (S12
7; YES), a signal to that effect is transmitted to the CPU 11 (S14
1). In response to this, the CPU 11 performs a process for transmitting data to that effect to the service center as described later.

Further, the copying operation is canceled and the "invalid" character is printed in black. That is, step S123
The electrostatic latent image of the font data (for example, "invalid" characters) from the warning font generation part is formed on the surface of the photoconductor drum 24, not the image of the document read by the black toner. Is developed and transferred onto a sheet (S143). This operation is performed by a command from the CPU 41 as shown in FIG.
It is realized by switching the selector.

[3-2] Details of Preliminary Judgment / Main Judgment Next, with reference to FIG. 8 showing the procedure of the preliminary judgment / main discrimination, and with reference to FIGS. The details of the discrimination / main discrimination will be described.

When the preliminary scan is started in the image reader section (S1001), the optical image is first converted into an electric signal by the five CCDs 33 as shown in FIG. This electric signal is converted into digital data by the A / D converter 62, and then combined into R, G, and B color data by the combining processing unit 63, and further shaded in block 64. Various correction processes such as correction are performed.

The image data corrected by the block 64 is then sent to the edit processing section 65 and is subjected to edit processing.
In block 66, γ correction or the like is performed, and then the print head control unit 35 of the printer unit is sent. However, when a bill recognition signal is sent from the bill recognition processing unit 67 to the CPU 41, and in response to this, the CPU 41 instructs the selector of FIG. 5 to switch, the above-described (step S143 of FIG. 7).
As described above, the “invalid” font from the warning font generating section is sent to the print head control section 35.

The image data after the correction processing in block 64 is also sent to the bill recognition processing section 67 for the above-mentioned preliminary discrimination / main discrimination processing. The image data sent from the block 64 to the bill discrimination processing unit 67 is first extracted by the color masking unit only for a specific color (eg, the color of the stamp of the bill) and then binarized by the binarization unit.
After being digitized, it is stored in the bitmap memory (S100
3). On the other hand, image data for preliminary discrimination in the EEP-ROM 49 (example: circular pattern of stamp of banknote, see FIG. 10)
Is transferred to the pattern storage RAM (S1005). 2 above
The two pieces of data are compared by the pattern matching unit (preliminary discrimination), and the CPU 41 determines whether or not they match.
Sent to (S1007).

If the two do not match in the preliminary determination, (S
1009; NO), the manuscript was clearly recognized as not a banknote,
In this case, the normal copying operation is executed as described above. That is, the image reader unit is instructed to set the image reading speed to the normal speed, and the printer unit is instructed to set the printing speed to the normal speed. (S111, Fig. 7).

On the other hand, if they match in the preliminary determination (S1009; YES), the original may be a bill,
This determination is executed.

First, as described above, the image reader unit is instructed to set the image reading speed to a slower speed than usual, and the printer unit is set to have a printing speed faster than usual. Is instructed to set a slower speed (S12
1, Fig. 7). That is, by setting in this way, the main determination can be completed before the development of the black toner, which is the final print color, and necessary processing (when the original is an image for which image recording is prohibited such as banknotes, As described above, it is possible to execute processing for overwriting "invalid" characters, etc. (see S143 in FIG. 7).

Next, when the main scan is started, the read image data is processed in the same manner as in the case of the preliminary discrimination and stored in the bitmap memory. Also, EE
Image data for main discrimination in the P-ROM 49 (e.g., pattern of banknote seal, here, 8 patterns with different inclination angles are prepared like P1 to P8 in FIG. 10). Are sequentially transferred to the pattern storage RAM (S1011).
, And the patterns in the bit map memory are sequentially compared (S1013). In this way, pattern matching in all directions is performed.

If the pattern in the bit map memory does not match any of the above P1 to P8 (S1015; NO) and this judgment is completed (S1017; YES), the original is recognized as not a bill. It In this case, the process of overwriting the "invalid" character (invalid process, S143, Fig. 7) is not executed. On the other hand, the pattern in the bitmap memory is P
When it matches with any one of 1 to P8 (S1015; YES), the document is recognized as a banknote, and the result (banknote recognition signal) is sent to the CPU 41. Corresponding to this, CPU41
Switches the selector as described above to execute the invalidation process.

In the above copying machine, the discrimination is made by pattern matching. This is done by other methods such as magnetic detection, color histogram, spatial frequency pattern,
A method such as shape recognition may be used.

[4] Data Communication with Management Center Side Next, FIG. 6 (main routine of processing of CPU 41), FIG.
1 to 16 (processing by the CPU 11), and FIGS.
0 (Processing by CPU91), service center
Data communication with the (management center) side will be described.

[4-1] Processing in the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 As shown in FIG. 6, in the CPU 41, for example, the processing is started by turning on the power source. First, the memory is cleared and the standard mode is set. Initial settings are made (S41), then step S4
The loop process after 3 is repeatedly executed.

Step S43 collectively shows the process of receiving various input signals. Here, the input signal is, for example, a key switch group on the operation panel 40, an input signal from a sensor group provided at various places in the copying machine, or the CPU 11
It is an input signal from the side. Step S45 is the operation panel
The display processing on the display unit on 40 is collectively shown.

If the copying machine 4 is in the copying operation (S
47; YES), various processes necessary for the copying operation as described above (FIG. 7) are sequentially executed (S49). Further, as described above, when it is detected that the original is a banknote, in the copy control process (S49), that effect is transmitted to the CPU 11 (step S141 in FIG. 7), and the corresponding action is taken. In the CPU 11, the bill detection / transmission flag is set to 1 (step S403 in FIG. 13).
reference).

On the other hand, JAM and other troubles (exposure lamp burned out, heater burned out, charge wire abnormal discharge, etc.)
If (S51; YES), the process corresponding to the trouble is executed, and the trouble signal corresponding to the trouble is transmitted to the CPU 11 (S53). In response to this, the CPU 11 sets the trouble transmission flag to 1 (see step S25 in FIG. 11). After that, when the trouble reset switch is operated by a serviceman or the like (S55; YES), a trouble reset signal is transmitted to the CPU 11 (S57).

[4-2] Processing by the CPU 11 of DT1 As shown in FIG. 11, the CPU 11 starts the processing by turning on the power, for example. If the initial setting mode is set (S11; YES), the initial setting process (S13) is executed, and then a copy permission signal is transmitted to the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 (S15). . If the initial setting mode is not set (S11; NO), the copy permission signal is immediately transmitted (S15). After transmitting the copy permission signal, step S21
Repeated loop processing from S37 to S37 is executed.

* Initial setting process: S13 This process is executed when the DIP switch DIPSW4 is turned on at the start of the process, that is, when the initial setting mode is set (S11; YES). . In this processing, the service center selection number (telephone number) and DT1 are selected according to the ON / OFF state of the DIP switches DIPSW1 to DIPSW3.
ID number (DTID) and I of service center
Input of D number (center-ID) is accepted, and
Initial setting transmission is performed.

* Count data reception processing: S21 In this processing, reception processing of various count data transmitted from the CPU 41 is performed. The contents of the data are discharge code, JAM / trouble code, JAM / trouble count value, count value by paper size (by paper feed port), PM
It is a count value. In the CPU 11, these data are updated to the latest values and held.

* Element data reception / data processing: S2
3 The above element data are sequentially received. Also,
Data corresponding to the average value and the standard deviation are calculated and updated to the latest value.

* Trouble transmission determination processing: S25 When a signal indicating that a trouble has occurred or a signal indicating that the trouble has been recovered is received from the CPU 41, the trouble transmission flag or the trouble recovery transmission flag is set to 1. It As a result, the modem 52 is activated in the call processing (S37), and the communication line with the service center is connected.

* Regular transmission determination processing: S27 When the predetermined regular transmission time comes, the regular transmission flag is set to 1. As a result, the modem 52 is activated by the call processing (S37), and the communication line with the service center is connected (Fig. 1).
2 step S305). When reference data such as banknotes is transmitted from the service center side during communication with the service center by the regular transmission (FIG. 12, S301; YES), the contents of the EEP-ROM 49 are displayed. Is issued to the CPU 41 (S303).
In response to this, the data is updated on the CPU 41 side.

* Warning transmission determination processing: S29 In this processing, the element data, the JAM counter count value, and the PM counter count value are compared with predetermined threshold values. As a result, when the data is out of the permissible range or when the data outside the permissible range returns to the permissible range, the warning transmission flag or the warning recovery transmission flag is set to 1. This allows the modem to be used for call processing (S37).
52 is started and the communication line with the service center is connected.

* Manual transmission determination process: S31 When the push switch is operated, the manual transmission flag is set to 1. This allows the modem to be used for call processing (S31).
52 is started and the communication line with the service center is connected.

* PM transmission determination processing: S33 When the count value of the PM counter is cleared to "0" by replacing the parts, the PM transmission flag is set to 1 after the previous count value is substituted as the clear value. As a result, the modem 52 is activated in the call processing (S37), and the communication line with the service center is connected.

* Banknote copy / transmission determination: S35 When a signal indicating that the original is a banknote is received from the CPU 41 side of the copying machine 4 (S401 in FIG. 13; YES, see S141 in FIG. 7), banknote detection transmission The flag is set to 1 (S40 in FIG. 13)
3). As a result, the modem 52 is activated in the call processing (S37), and the communication line with the service center is connected.

* Calling process: S37 When any one of the above transmission flags is set to 1, the modem 52 is instructed to call the modem 72 of the service center. Also, after the communication line is connected, data communication corresponding to the transmission flag is performed with the service center.

The details of the call processing will be described below. When any one of the outgoing flags is set to 1 (FIG. 14, S501; YES)
, Redial is not in standby (S503; NO), center
The communication line with the modem 72 is not connected (S505;
NO), the modem 52 is not on standby after instructing to call the center-side modem 72 (S507; NO, FIG. 15), and the modem 52 is provided with an off-hook signal, an external line selection signal, and , Is instructed to send out the telephone number of the center-side modem 72 (S509). That is, it is instructed that the center side should be called. Further, the fact that the calling is instructed is transmitted to the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 (S510).

As a result of the processing in step S509, the copying machine
When the telephone 53 attached to the modem 52 on the fourth side is in a call and therefore cannot call the modem 72 on the center side (S511; YES), the time after a certain time is set as the redial time. (S513). Further, the redial counter is incremented, and the fact that the redial standby is in progress is transmitted to the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 (S51).
Four). As a result, the determination in step S503 becomes "YES" until the redial time, and the process in step S509 is not executed. When the redial time comes, the modem 52 on the copy machine 4 side
It is instructed to call the service center side (S50
9).

On the other hand, in response to the processing in step S509, a signal for calling the service center side is sent to the communication line, and as a result, the modem 72 on the center side is in a call (the attached telephone 73 is talking). (Including the case of no response from the CPU 91 of the service center even when connected to the modem 72) (S515; YES), the priority is next to the service center. A call to a high transmission destination is ordered (S517). As a result, for the transmission destination,
The process of step S509 is performed. Here, an extension number within the same premises may be set as a transmission destination having the second highest priority next to the service center.

When the count value of the redial counter exceeds the predetermined value (S541; NO), the connection is impossible.
The G signal is transmitted to the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4, and then the count value of the redial counter is reset to 0 (S54
3). Also, the transmission flag is reset to 0 (S545), and then the communication line is disconnected (S547).

Further, as a result of the processing in step S509,
When the communication line with the service center side is connected (S505;
(YES), the transmission ready state by the data transmission permission from the modem 72 side on the service center side is waited, and when the transmission ready state is then established (S521; YES), the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 Is transmitted online '' (S522), and then data transmission / reception with the center side is executed (S522).
525).

In the above, the data transmitted / received is determined by the transmission flag. That is, as shown in FIG.
In case of trouble transmission (S551; YES), trouble data indicating the type of trouble is transmitted to the center side, and the service data (service man) transmitted from the center side is transmitted. Estimated arrival time, etc. (see S923 in FIG. 20) is received (S552). If it is a warning transmission (S553;
(YES) If the warning data is (S554) and PM is transmitted (S55
5; YES) PM data is transmitted (S556), respectively.

In the case of scheduled transmission (S557; YE
S), various count data and element data are transmitted (S558), next scheduled transmission date time data transmitted from the center side, updated threshold data,
Also, the update password is received (S559). Furthermore, when reference data such as a bill is transmitted from the service center side (see S927 in FIG. 20), the reference data is received (S560). Based on this, the data in the EEP-ROM 49 is updated as described above (see S303 in FIG. 12).

In the case of manual transmission (S56
1; YES), various count data and element data are transmitted (S562).

If the bill copy is sent (S56
3; YES), various data for identifying the unauthorized use (the date and time, the number of the image forming apparatus, the model name of the image forming apparatus, and the like) so that the service center can take necessary measures. I for identifying the user or department of the image forming apparatus
(D, bill type, etc.) is transmitted (S564).

In this way, when the data communication with the center side is completed (S523; YES), whether or not the service data such as the serviceman's expected arrival time has been transmitted from the center side. Is determined and received (S531; YES), the server
The data is transmitted to the CPU 41 of the copying machine 4 (S53
3). After that, the transmission flag is reset to 0 (S545), and the communication line disconnection process is executed (S547).

[4-3] Processing by the CPU 91 of the service center In the CPU 91 mounted on the computer 90 of the service center, the processing is started by turning on the power source, and the processing is started by a modem, a printer or the like. Environment setting is executed (S61)
. First, the processing executed corresponding to each operation of the F1 key to the F9 key of the keyboard 93 will be described.

* F1 key operation (S62; YES) The acceptance mode for model registration is set (S63). That is, registration of the model name, the number of items of element data, the name of each element data, the threshold value of each element data, the threshold value of each count data, etc. is accepted. * F2 key operation (S64; YES) The registration acceptance mode of the user master is set (S65). For example, registration of user name, address, telephone number, model name, machine number, scheduled transmission date and time, etc. is accepted for each copying machine. Further, the ID of each data terminal is automatically set. * F3 key operation (S66; YES) The trouble status is displayed (S67). That is, the user information (user name, address, telephone number, model name) of the copying machine that has transmitted the trouble, the date and time of occurrence, etc. are displayed on the display 92 together with the trouble content. The number of troubles is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 regardless of the operation of the F3 key. * F4 key operation (S68; YES) Warning status is displayed (S69). That is, the user information and the like of the copying machine that issued the warning is displayed on the display 92 together with the warning content. The number of warnings is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 regardless of the operation of the F4 key. * F5 key operation (S70; YES) The unreceived status is displayed (S71). That is, the user information of the copying machine, which does not perform the scheduled transmission even after the predetermined scheduled transmission time, is displayed on the display 92. The number of unreceived items is always displayed in the corner of the display 92 regardless of the operation of the F4 key. * F6 key operation (S72; YES) The display mode of user data is set (S73). That is, when the user is selected, the user information is displayed on the display 92. When the submenu is selected, the count values of various counters (total counter, paper size counter, JAM counter, trouble counter, PM counter) of each copying machine of the user and element data are displayed. It is displayed by month, or by item. * F7 key operation (S74; YES) The bill is printed out (S75). Printer 94
Is started, and the billed amount calculated based on the count value of the total counter and a predetermined calculation formula is printed out. * F8 key operation (S76; YES) Enter the service status input state. That is, the input acceptance state of data related to the creation of the service schedule, such as the schedule of each service person, the arrival (stock) status of each component, etc., is set. The CPU 91 creates data for service schedule management based on the input data,
Hold in RAM97.

* F9 key operation (S78; YES) It becomes possible to rewrite the reference pattern such as bills (S7).
9). That is, the pattern in the RAM 97 is selected by the keyboard operation. The rewritten pattern is transmitted to the user side at the time of regular transmission communication (see S927 in FIG. 20 and S560 in FIG. 16). In response to this, the CPU 11 on the user side
Update the reference pattern of EP-ROM49 with CP
It is executed by U41 (see S303 in FIG. 12).

Next, the reception interrupt process (FIGS. 19 and 20) executed by the CPU 91 will be described. Communication line to modem 72
When an incoming call to the CPU 91 is detected and an interrupt is generated in the CPU 91, the reception processing of the ID of the DT1 of the communication partner and the data is first performed (S901). If a communication error occurs during the reception (S903; YES), the DT1 side is notified on the condition that the number of errors is within the predetermined number (S911; YES).
Data is requested to be retransmitted (S913). If the number of errors exceeds the predetermined number (S911; NO), the line is disconnected (S
931), the interruption ends.

When the receiving process in step S901 is completed (S905; YES), it is determined whether or not the communication this time is the communication by the trouble transmission, and if it is the communication by the trouble transmission (S921; YES). ), The trouble type is displayed on the display 92 together with the user name, and RAM
Based on the service schedule management data stored in 97, the serviceman's estimated time of arrival etc.
The visdata is calculated and transmitted to the DT1 side (S92
3).

If the communication this time is not the communication by the trouble transmission (S921; NO), it is determined whether or not the communication is the communication by the scheduled transmission. If the communication is the communication by the scheduled transmission (S925; YES). ), The password of the copying machine 4 in which the DT1 that sent this time is mounted is updated and sent. In addition, as described above (processing of S79 in FIG. 18), when the reference pattern such as a bill is rewritten,
The reference pattern of the RAM 97 is also transmitted to update the data on the user side (S927). After that, the communication line is disconnected (S931), the items and months are totaled, and if necessary, instructions for the serviceman (visit time, mobile parts, etc.) are printed out.
(S933).

[0086]

According to the image forming apparatus of the present invention, when it is determined that the read document is a banknote or the like, the connection means with the communication line is activated to connect to the service center,
Since the above determination result is transmitted, the service center side can know that an illegal copy has been attempted,
You can take the necessary action. Further, by notifying the user that the image forming apparatus is provided in such a system, it is possible to prevent illegal copying.

In the image forming apparatus according to the eighth aspect, when a program in which reference data such as banknotes or an algorithm for discriminating whether the original is a banknote or the like is described is transmitted through the communication line. , They are written in a predetermined memory instead of the previous data, and thereafter, whether or not the read original is a banknote or the like is determined according to the updated program and / or updated. It is performed with reference to the later data. Therefore, in this image forming apparatus, the data
The serviceman does not have to visit the user to update the data. Also, the update can be performed quickly.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a system in which an apparatus according to an embodiment is installed.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view showing a mechanism of the apparatus of the embodiment.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a part of the circuit configuration of the embodiment.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing the rest of the circuit configuration of the embodiment.

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a bill discriminating process of the copying machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a flow chart showing the processing in the CPU of the copying machine of the embodiment.
It is a chart.

7 is a flowchart showing the copy control process of FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart for explaining an outline of document discrimination processing of the copying machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a block diagram showing an image reading process of the copying machine of the embodiment.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of patterns referred to in a document discrimination process.

FIG. 11 is a flow chart showing the processing in the DT CPU of the embodiment.
It is a chart.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the scheduled transmission determination processing of FIG.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the bill copy transmission determination of FIG. 11.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a part of the call processing of FIG.
It is

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing the rest of the call processing of FIG.
It is

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing the data transmission / reception processing of FIG.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the processing in the CPU of the service center.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing the processing in the CPU of the service center.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the processing in the CPU of the service center.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart showing the processing in the CPU of the service center.

[Explanation of symbols]

 11 DT CPU 41 Copier CPU 49 EEP-ROM 91 Service Center CPU

Claims (11)

[Claims] 1. An image reading unit for generating an electric signal corresponding to an original image, an image recording unit for reproducing an image corresponding to the electric signal on a sheet, and data concerning an image for which image recording is prohibited is stored. And a determination as to whether the image corresponding to the electrical signal is an image recording inhibition target image, based on the electrical signal and the data of the inhibition data storage unit. Means, a means for connecting to a communication line, a destination storage means for storing data for connecting to a predetermined transmission destination, and an image corresponding to the electric signal is an image recording prohibition target image. When judged by the judgment means, connection control means for activating the connection means to connect the communication line with the transmission destination stored in the destination storage means, and communication with the transmission destination After connecting the line, before Communication de to transmit the determination result by the determination means - image forming apparatus having a motor control means. 2. A means for collecting and storing various data relating to the state of the image forming apparatus, and a timing for notifying an administrator of various data relating to the state according to claim 1. , A status transmission control unit that determines each data type, the destination storage unit, as the predetermined transmission destination,
The communication terminal device of the manager is stored, and the connection control means executes the connection with the transmission destination even at the timing determined by the status transmission control means, and the communication data is stored. The image forming apparatus, wherein when the connection is executed at the timing determined by the status transmission control means, the control means transmits the data corresponding to the timing. 3. The number-of-images storage unit for counting and storing the number of images recorded by the image recording unit, and the number-of-records transmission control unit for determining the timing at which the administrator is notified of the number of recorded images. The destination storage means, as the predetermined transmission destination,
The communication terminal device of the manager is stored, and the connection control means executes the connection with the transmission destination even at the timing determined by the recording number transmission control means, An image forming apparatus, wherein the data control means causes the data stored in the number storage means to be transmitted when the connection is executed at the timing determined by the recording number transmission control means. 4. The image forming apparatus according to claim 3, wherein when the image corresponding to the electric signal is an image for which image recording is prohibited, the determining unit determines, the date and time, the number of the image forming apparatus, An unauthorized use storage means for storing a model name of the image forming apparatus and an ID for identifying a user of the image forming apparatus as data regarding unauthorized use, wherein the communication data control means stores the record. When the connection is executed at the timing determined by the number transmission control means, the data stored in the number storage means as well as the data stored in the unauthorized use storage means are transmitted. Image forming apparatus. 5. The destination storage unit according to claim 1, receives the predetermined transmission destination from a communication line together with an input signal from an operation panel of the image forming apparatus and an ID for specifying an administrator. Input signal,
An image forming apparatus that updates according to an input signal from a maintenance tool for a serviceman. 6. The destination storage means according to claim 1, wherein the destination storage means is the predetermined destination.
It stores a plurality of transmission destinations with priorities, the connection control means, when the connection with the transmission destination having the highest priority is impossible, the connection control means in descending order of the priority. An image forming apparatus that sequentially changes the transmission destination and executes the connection. 7. The prohibition data storage means according to claim 1, wherein the prohibition data storage means stores data relating to a plurality of types of image recording prohibition target images, and the communication data control means includes the An image forming apparatus that transmits, together with a determination result, data that specifies the type of image associated with the determination result. 8. An image reading means for generating an electric signal corresponding to an original image, an image recording means for reproducing an image corresponding to the electric signal on a sheet, and data relating to an image recording inhibition target. For prohibiting image recording, and for determining whether or not the image corresponding to the electric signal is an image recording prohibition target based on the electric signal and the data of the prohibition data storage unit. Program storing means for storing a program in which the algorithm described in (1), determining means for determining whether or not the image corresponding to the electric signal is an image recording inhibition target image according to the program of the program storing means, and communication Connection means for connecting to the line, identification information storage means for storing identification information for identifying the administrator, and information received from the administrator side collated with the identification information via the communication line. That according to the input signal, the prohibition de - de of data storage means - data, and / or de-updating program of the program storage means - an image forming apparatus having a data updating means. 9. The administrator storage unit according to claim 8, wherein the administrator storage unit stores data for connecting to the administrator side, and an image corresponding to the electric signal is an image for which image recording is prohibited. When judged by the judging means, connection control means for activating the connecting means to connect the communication line with the manager side stored in the manager storing means, and communication with the manager side An image forming apparatus comprising: communication data control means for transmitting the judgment result by the judgment means after the line is connected. 10. The means according to claim 9, which collects and stores various data relating to the state of the image forming apparatus, and a timing at which the administrator is notified of various data relating to the state. Is provided for each data type, and the connection control means executes the connection with the administrator side even at the timing determined by the status transmission control means. The communication data control means causes the data corresponding to the timing to be transmitted when the connection is executed at the timing determined by the status transmission control means. 11. The number-of-sheets storage unit for counting and storing the number of sheets recorded by the image recording unit, and the number-of-records transmission control unit for deciding the timing at which the administrator is notified of the number of recorded sheets. The connection control means causes the connection with the manager side to be executed even at the timing determined by the recording number transmission control means, and the communication data control means controls the recording number. An image forming apparatus for transmitting the data stored in the number-of-sheets storage means when the connection is executed at the timing determined by the transmission control means.