JPH08220945A - Network system - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE: To provide a network system for an image forming device capable of improving productivity and with excellent operability. CONSTITUTION: Plural digital copying machines 20a, 20b are connected through an external interface (SCSI) 31, and when plural copying machines 20a, 20b execute one print operation while taking partial charge, even when abnormality occurs in the certain machine of the digital copying machines 20a, 20b while executing a shared job, and the operation of the machine is stopped, a system controller 3 makes execute the operation of the digital copying machine while executing the shared job as it is, and the controller 3 makes so that the processing of the jobs in respective digital copying machines 20a, 20b are not stopped simultaneously. In such a case, the controller 3 makes execute the shared job of the digital copying machine whose operation is stopped by transferring it to the digital copying machine while executing other shared job, or informs the digital copying machine operated by an operator of that the shared job is stopped to make recognize that to the operator, and the subsequent processing is performed rapidly.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a network constructed by connecting a plurality of image forming apparatuses having functions such as image copying, a computer output terminal function, and a facsimile function such as a digital copying machine. Regarding the system.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, for various purposes, a plurality of image signal output means such as an image scanner, a word processor, a personal computer, etc. for outputting an image signal, and a plurality of printers for respectively forming an image by the respective image signals. A system combining image forming means such as the above has been proposed.

For example, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Publication No. 2-21190, a plurality of image signal output devices and a plurality of image forming devices are organically combined by each function such as recording, storing, and communication of image information. , There is an image forming system that enables free access from any place to another place.

Further, as disclosed in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 5-304575, there is a system in which a digital copying machine is connected to increase a copying operation speed.

FIG. 32 is a system block diagram of a conventional digital copying machine. This system includes an image reading unit 1, an image writing unit 2, a system controller 3,
It is composed of a memory unit 4, a user restriction device 5, a human body detection sensor 6, a remote diagnostic device (CSS) 7, and a clock 8. The memory unit 4 is necessary only when realizing the memory function, and is not necessary when considering only realizing the normal copy function. Further, the clock 8 is only necessary for implementing a weekly timer function such as booting or shutting down the machine at a specific time. Further, the human body detection sensor 6 is necessary only when realizing the function of automatically canceling the preheating mode when the user approaches in front of the machine in the preheating mode. If it occurs, it will automatically notify the service center,
Since it is a function of remotely monitoring the running state / usage state of the machine, it may be installed only when such a function is required.

DRAM block 9 in the memory unit 4
Is for storing the image signal read from the image reading unit 1, and can transfer the image data stored in the image writing unit 2 in response to a request from the system controller 3. In addition, the compression block 10
It is equipped with a compression function such as MH, MR, MMR system, which compresses the image once read and stores it in memory (DRAM).
The use efficiency of can be improved. Further, the rotation of the image is realized by changing the address read from the image writing unit 2 and its direction. 11 is a DMA block. In this configuration, the image reading unit 1, the image writing unit 2, the memory unit 4, and the CSS 7 are controlled by only one CPU of the system controller 3.

FIG. 33 is a system block diagram of a digital copying machine according to another conventional example. In this conventional example, each of the image reading unit 1, the image writing unit 2, and the memory unit 4 has a CPU, and a command from the system controller 3 to each controller is transmitted by a control signal line, so that the hardware configuration of the system can be freely set. It can be set to.

[0008]

As described above, various network systems have been proposed in the past. In the conventional system, a plurality of image forming apparatuses share a copy operation or a print operation. It could not be said that detailed consideration was given to improving productivity and efficiency of use.

The present invention has been made based on such a background, and an object of the present invention is to provide a network system of an image forming apparatus capable of improving production efficiency and excellent in operability. Is.

[0010]

In order to achieve the above object, a first means is a communication means for communicating an operation command, a state, image information, etc., which comprises a document conveying means, an image forming means and a paper feeding means. In a network system in which a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a plurality of image forming apparatuses, when a plurality of image forming apparatuses share one printing operation,
When an abnormality occurs in a specific image forming apparatus, a means for stopping the operation of the image forming apparatus in which the abnormality occurs and continuing the operation of the other normally operating image forming apparatus as it is Is characterized by.

The second means is, in the first means, when an abnormality occurs in an image forming apparatus other than the image forming apparatus operated by the operator, the fact that the abnormality has occurred and the image forming apparatus in which the operation abnormality has occurred. Is provided to the image forming apparatus operated by the operator.

Tem.

A third means is a means for causing, in the first means, a normal image forming apparatus operating at the same time to execute the remaining job shared by the image forming apparatus that has stopped operating due to an abnormality. It is characterized by having.

The fourth means is provided with a means for informing the image forming apparatus operated by the operator of the output destination image forming apparatus whose allocation has been changed after the job in the third means. It has a feature.

A fifth means is an image forming apparatus which is in charge of one printing operation in the first means, and when an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus which is not operated by an operator and the operation is interrupted, the abnormality is canceled. It is characterized in that it is provided with a means for automatically starting the remaining operation when it is performed.

According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, when the one printing operation is completed for all of the image forming apparatus operated by the operator and all the image forming apparatuses which share the job in the first means, the operator is informed accordingly. It is characterized in that it is provided with means for notifying the image forming apparatus being operated.

[0017]

According to the first means, when a plurality of image forming apparatuses share a single image forming operation, and when any one of the image forming apparatuses has a sheet conveyance jam or other abnormality, the image is formed. The operation of the forming apparatus is stopped, and the printing operation is continued for other normal image forming apparatuses.

In the second means, when a transfer paper conveyance jam or other abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus other than the operating machine, the fact that the operating machine has an abnormality and the image forming apparatus in which the abnormality has occurred are specified. A warning is given, for example, via a display or the like.

In the third means, the remaining job of the image forming apparatus in which an abnormality such as a jam has occurred is shared by the other image forming apparatuses operating simultaneously to execute the printing operation.

In the fourth means, the image forming apparatus that has performed the remaining job by performing the shoulder shift operation notifies the operating device which image forming apparatus, and the operator clearly recognizes the output destination of the hard copy. It can be so.

In the fifth means, when the remote machine which is not operated by the operator goes down, the rest of the job is automatically executed when the down state is recovered, so that the downtime can be minimized and the overall operation can be reduced. Efficiency is improved.

In the sixth means, the operations of the image forming apparatuses that share the jobs do not always end at the same time. Therefore, when the operations of all the image forming apparatuses end, the output hard copy is taken. And minimize waste.

[0023]

Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a front view of a digital copying machine. In FIG. 1, a digital copying machine 20 includes an automatic document feeder (ADF) 21, a manipulating unit 22, an image reading unit 23, an image forming unit 24, a duplex unit 25, a sorter 26, and a multi-stage sheet feeding unit as a document conveying unit. A cassette 27, an extension function unit 28, and a user restriction device 29 are provided. The sheet feeding means is composed of a known sheet transport mechanism (not shown) that transports the sheet from the sheet cassette 27 to the sorter 25 via the image forming section 24, and also includes a path to feed the sheet via the duplex unit 25. .

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a network system of a digital copying machine. In the figure, eight digital copying machines 20a, 20b, 20c, 20d, 20e, 20f and 2 are provided.
Although 0g and 20h are networked, naturally the number of copying machines connected is not limited.

FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a network system of the digital copying machine according to the embodiment. As shown in the figure, the hardware configuration of one digital copying machine is almost the same as that of the conventional one, but the read image is transferred to the external network in the memory unit 4 or is transferred from the network. Image data in D in the memory unit 4
In order to store the data in the RAM block 9, SCSI (Small Computer Sy) is used as a network means.
system interface) 31, and SCSI
The controller 32 is used. Naturally, for example, Ethernet is used as the physical means for the network communication means, and OSI (Open) is used for the data communication.
System Interface) TC of reference model
Various means are conceivable, such as using P / IP communication.
Further, by using the configuration as shown in the figure, not only the transfer of image data as described above but also the notification of the in-machine state of each machine existing on the network and the control command and setting such as a remote output command described later are set. It also transfers commands.

Next, the image read by the first digital copying machine 20a (digital PPC-I) and the image writing section 2 of the second digital copying machine 20b (digital PPC-II).
The operation (hereinafter referred to as remote output) of transferring to the. FIG. 4 is a software configuration diagram of the network system of the digital copying machine according to the embodiment. The copy application 41 shown in this figure is an application that executes a copy sequence for executing a copy operation, and the input / output control unit 42 is
It is a layer (device driver) for logically / physically converting data, and the operation unit controller 43 is an MMI (Man
Machine interface (layer that performs LCD display, LED lighting / lighting, key input scanning, etc. at a logical level) for executing Machine Interface, and the peripheral device controller 44 uses the (automatic) duplex unit 25 and the sorter 2.
6, a layer for executing control of a peripheral machine mounted on a digital copying machine (hereinafter, also referred to as "digital PPC") such as ADF21 at a logic level. Other,
Image forming unit controller 45, image reading unit controller 46, system control unit (system controller) 3
Is provided. Further, the daemon process 47 reads out the image data stored in the memory unit 4 when a print request is requested from another machine on the network, and the image data is stored in the image forming unit 24 (see FIG. 1). It exists as an application that plays the role of transferring. Naturally, the daemon process 47
Before the image is read from the memory unit 4 and the printing operation is executed, the image transfer from other machines on the network must be completed. Here, the operation unit 22, the ADF 21, the duplex unit 25, the peripherals such as the sorter 26, the image forming unit 24, the image reading unit 23, and the memory unit 4 are handled as resources possessed by the respective copying machines. When the first digital copying machine 20a in FIG. 4 executes a copying operation using its own resources (when the print start key is pressed), the image forming section 24 and the image reading section are set to the system controller 3. 23, or each resource of the peripheral unit and the memory unit 4 as required.

In response to a request from the copy application 41, the system control unit 3 arbitrates the right to use the resource and notifies the copy application 41 of the arbitration result (usability). When the first digital copying machine 20a is used standalone (when not connected to the network), all resources owned by the system are copied by the copy application 4
Since 1 is in the occupable state, the copying operation is immediately executed. On the other hand, as in the present invention, resource usage is performed for the system controller 3 of the remote digital copying machine that executes the printing operation by using the resources of another machine (hereinafter, remote digital copying machine) existing on the network. Claim the right.

The system controller 3 of the remote digital copying machine arbitrates the resources according to the request and notifies the application of the requesting machine of the result. When the usage right is granted, the application reads the image, and when the storage of the image in the memory unit 4 of the application is completed, the external interface (SC in this embodiment) is read.
The image is transferred to the memory unit 4 of the remote output destination machine via SI31). When the image transfer is completed, the daemon process 47 of the remote output destination machine
After transmitting each condition for executing printing (paper feed port, paper ejection port, number of prints, etc.), a "print start" command is transmitted. Remote output destination daemon process 4
When receiving the "print start" command, the request 7 requests the system controller 3 of itself (the machine that executes the remote output) to start printing, and the remote output is executed by the system controller 3.

FIGS. 5 and 6 are explanatory views showing a data flow (command) flowing between the layers shown in FIG. 4 in time series.

As shown in FIG. 5, "Digital PP
If the memory unit 4 of "Digital PPC-II" is used by "CI", "Digital PPC-I"
The memory unit 4 of "I" is "Digital PPC-II".
(Or, if a plurality of digital copying machines as shown in FIG. 2 are connected on the network, "Digital PPC-
Applications of digital copiers other than "I" cannot be used. The “FGATE assert” command to the system controller 3 → demon process 47 shown in FIG. 5 is a command issued when the transfer paper that has been fed reaches the registration roller position. It is necessary to synchronize the writing position of the output image from the memory unit 4.

Here, explanation of terms used in the present invention,
Make a definition. (1) Image reading units 1 and 23 This is for irradiating a document with light from a light source and reflecting the reflected light with C
It is a device that has a function of converting an electric signal by a CD and performing necessary image processing. Here, the necessary image processing is: quantization: converting analog data converted into an electric signal by the CCD into binary or multi-valued data. Shading correction: Irradiation unevenness of a light source for irradiating a document and sensitivity variation of CCD are corrected. MTF correction: Correction of blur due to the optical system. Magnification processing: Change the image reading density,
Data interpolation is performed using the read image data. Etc. are shown.

(2) Image writing unit 2 and image forming unit 24 This is an electronic photograph of an image image sent by an electric signal.
Plain paper by means of heat-sensitive, thermal transfer, inkjet, etc.
This is a device for forming on thermal paper.

(3) Video signal, image data An image electric signal converted by the image reading unit 23, an image electric signal input to the image forming unit 24, and a signal for synchronizing with the image electric signal. Collectively expressed as video signal or image data.

(4) Control signals and commands In order to exchange video signals among the image reading section 23, the image forming section 24, and applications, it is necessary to transfer information between the devices. This means is expressed as control signal or command issue.

(5) Extended function, application (abbreviated as application), memory unit 4 A major feature of the digital copying machine is that an image is converted into an electric signal and read, and the electric signal is restored by the image forming unit. By providing a means for variously changing and transmitting the electric signal read at this time, it can be applied to fields other than the conventional analog copying machine. In addition to realizing functions such as FAX, page printer, scanner, and file system,
Recently, even when the copy function is executed, the read image data is temporarily stored in a storage device such as a DRAM,
By reading out the image data as needed, you can execute multiple prints in one scan for multiple copies,
Alternatively, a function of printing a plurality of originals on one sheet of transfer paper (hereinafter referred to as a memory function) is realized. Functions that can be realized by these digital copier systems are expressed as extended functions or applications. In addition, in the present invention, the memory unit 4 is also used as a buffer means at the time of image data transfer between machines on the network.

(6) System controller 3, system In executing the copy mode, in order to form an image in the image writing section 2, a paper carrying process, an electrophotographic process process,
The system controller 3 is a collective term for controllers that control scanner operation, light source on / off, and the like for in-machine monitoring of abnormal states and paper feed cassette states (paper presence / absence, etc.), and for reading an image by the image reading unit 1. Express. In addition, recent digital copiers have only one extended function.
Not only one, but also multiple apps have been installed at the same time. In this way, a digital copying machine that shares one resource may be expressed as a system, and a controller that controls this system may be expressed as a system controller.

(7) Resource, resource A resource is a functional unit unit shared by a plurality of applications.
Express as a resource. The system controller 3 described above
Performs system control on a per resource basis. The resources managed by the digital copying machine of the present invention include the image reading section 23, the image forming section 24, the operation section 22, the memory, and the peripheral machines.

(8) User Restriction In particular, a copying machine using an electrophotographic process consumes a large amount of money, and therefore it may not be desired to permit unlimited use. At this time, in order to identify, limit, and manage the user, a user-restricted device such as a coin rack, a key counter, a key card, and a prepaid card, or a personal identification code is used.

(9) User setting When the system becomes complicated, it is necessary to handle each user individually. Since it is impossible to satisfy all of these measures at the time of improved shipping, it is essential to take measures in the market. Therefore, normally, a nonvolatile RAM is installed to enable system setting according to the customer's request, but this function is referred to as user setting.

(10) Idle state A state in which no user operation is performed for a certain period is referred to as an idle state, and other states are referred to as a busy state. The time from the busy state to the idle state can be set by the user. For example, during the copying operation, of course, even if the copying operation ends, if the user does not operate for a certain period of time, the idle state does not occur.

(11) Human Body Detection Sensor 6 The human body detection sensor 6 comprises an infrared light emitting diode, an optical system for limiting the emission of infrared rays in a certain direction, and an infrared light receiving sensor for detecting the reflected light of the emitted infrared rays. Is configured to detect an object (operator) within a certain distance from and to send a signal to the main body control plate. Also,
A detection distance changeover switch is provided inside the human body detection sensor, and the detection distance can be changed in two steps. By arranging the human body detection sensor 6 on the front surface of the image forming unit 24, it becomes possible to confirm whether or not there is an operator in front of the apparatus.

(12) Weekly timer The weekly timer is set to ON / OFF set for each day of the week.
It has a function to turn the power on and off according to the off time. This function requires an operation to set the time of the clock module and an operation to set the on / off time for each day of the week.

(13) Preheating In this mode, power consumption is saved by lowering and controlling the fixing temperature by a fixed temperature (for example, 10 ° C.) and turning off the display of the operation unit. The setting of this mode is automatically set after a certain period of time after the operation and the operation are stopped depending on the key input on the operation unit 22 or the machine setting. This mode is released when the human body detection sensor 6 detects a person standing in front of the machine by key input on the operation unit 22 or machine setting.

(14) Reload A state in which the fixing temperature reaches the fixable temperature and copying is possible is called reloading.

(15) Interrupt mode This is a mode in which copying is temporarily interrupted to perform copying during execution and operation of the copying operation. By setting this mode, if the previous copy mode and copying are in progress, the intermediate progress information is stored in the nonvolatile RAM, the mode is shifted to the interrupt mode, and the mode is initialized. When the interrupt mode is canceled after the copy operation is executed, the mode and information stored in the nonvolatile RAM are returned to restore the state before the interrupt mode is set, and the mode before the interrupt can be continued by restarting. The setting / cancellation of this mode can be performed with the keys of the operation unit 22.

(16) ADF21 FIG. 7 is a block diagram of the ADF. The ADF 21 has two DC servo motors, a transport motor and a paper discharge motor, and makes the paper feed unit, the reverse, and the paper discharge unit independent. The reversing and ejecting unit has a reversing mechanism, which enables single-sided copying of double-sided originals. Place the original on the original table 51 and insert it until it hits lightly. The original set detection 52 detects the original,
The document insertion display goes off. When the start key of the copying machine is pressed, the calling solenoid and the paper feed spring electromagnetic clutch are turned on, and then the carry motor is turned on to feed the original. At this time, the fed document is fed by the separating belt 53 and the separating roller 54 only at the lowermost one. The document that has passed through the separation roller 54 is registered / document width detection 55, pulse generator 56, and document length detection 57.
Detects its size. When the trailing edge of the document passes the registration / document width detection 55, the registration / document width detection 55 is turned off, and the conveyance motor is turned off when a designated pulse is reached. As a result, the transport belt 58 stops, and the document stops at the designated position. When the reading of the original image is completed and the original replacement signal is sent, the conveyance motor and the paper discharge motor are turned on to discharge the original and feed the next original. In the case of a double-sided original, there is an original reversing mechanism that allows the original to pass through the contact glass 59 once, reverses the original, reverses the original at the discharge unit, and conveys the original onto the contact glass 59 again.
The number of documents that can be set on the document table 51 is limited by the opening of the insertion section, the separation mechanism, and the like. If you set more than the allowable number of sheets, paper jam or double feeding will occur.

The ADF 21 is connected by a communication line for transmitting and receiving commands to and from the main body of the copying machine, operates according to commands (paper feeding, discharging, etc.) from the copying machine, and sets the state of the ADF 21 such as with or without originals. send. Reference numeral 60 is a calling lever, 61 is a document scale, 62 is a calling roller, 63 is a reverse roller, 64 is a reverse sheet discharge detection, 65 is a reverse switching claw, and 66 is a sheet discharge roller.

(17) CSS (or Remote Diagnostic System, Image Forming Device Management System) FIG. 8 is a block diagram of the image forming device management system. A management device 71 installed at a service base and a device 72 such as a PPC installed under the user are connected to a public network 73.
Connected through. A communication control device 74 for controlling communication with the management device 71 is installed on the user side, and the user's PPC 72 is connected to this communication control device 74. A telephone 75 and a facsimile can be connected to the communication control device 74, so that the communication control device 74 can be installed by being inserted into a user's existing line.

The communication control device 74 has a plurality of Ps.
The PC 72 is connectable, but of course, it may be a single PC. These PPCs 72 need not be of the same type, may be of different models, or may be a device other than the PPC 72. Here, for convenience of explanation, it is assumed that a maximum of five PPCs 72 can be connected to one communication control device 74. Communication control device 74 and plural PPCs 7
2 is multi-drop connected according to the RS-485 standard. Communication control between the communication control device 74 and each PPC 72 is performed by a basic type data transmission control procedure.

By establishing a data link by the polling / selecting method of centralized control using the communication control device 74 as a control station, an arbitrary PP is established.
Communication with C72 is possible. A unique value can be set for each PPC 72 by an address setting switch, and the polling address and selecting address of each PPC 72 are determined by this.

(18) Operation Unit 22 FIG. 9 is an external view of the operation unit. The operation unit 22 is composed of hard keys such as ten keys and touch panel keys arranged on the liquid crystal. Reference numeral 81 is a ten-key pad for setting the number of copies and the like. Reference numeral 82 denotes a liquid crystal display screen, which is a touch panel for displaying operation states and messages. 8
Reference numeral 3 is a guidance key, which is used when shifting to a mode for displaying a description of a function and an operation method. Reference numeral 84 is a program key, which is used when frequently used settings are registered or called. An area processing key 85 is used to specify an area or set a copy mode for each area. Reference numeral 86 denotes a brightness adjusting knob, which is used when adjusting the brightness of the liquid crystal display screen. Reference numeral 87 denotes a mode clear / preheat / timer key, which is used to cancel the set contents or to set the preheat state by continuous pressing for a certain time or longer. Reference numeral 88 denotes an interrupt key, which is used when interrupting the copy operation and copying another original.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram of the touch panel detection circuit. In the figure, 91 is a controller that controls the entire circuit, and 92 is an A / D converter that converts an analog signal into a digital signal. The detection terminal is set to the high state by the controller 91, and X1, X2, Y1, and Y2 are set in FIG.
Set based on the combination table shown in. Since the Y1 and Y2 circuits are pulled up, Y1 becomes + 5V when the touch panel is off, and 0V when it is on. Therefore, the on / off state is confirmed from the output of the A / D converter 92. When the controller 91 detects the touch panel on state, it switches to the measurement mode. In the X direction, X1 is + 5V, X2 is 0V, and the potential at the input position is Y
1 is connected to the A / D converter 92, and the coordinates are calculated. The Y-direction coordinates are also calculated in the same manner by switching the circuit, and the touched position of the touch panel is detected.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing the structure of the operation unit. In the figure, 101 is a CPU that controls the entire operation unit, 102 is an address latch, and 103 is an RO.
M, 104 are system resets connected to the CPU 101, 105 is an address decoder, 106 is an LED driver, 107 is a keyboard, and 108 is an LCD controller. The LCD controller 108 includes a CPU 101
In addition to the address bus and data bus from the LED driver 106, keyboard 107, LCD module 11
1, an analog touch panel 112, a display data ROM 109, a RAM 110, and the like are connected.
An optical transceiver 113 that executes serial communication with the outside is connected to the CPU 101.

In the above configuration, the address signal from the CPU 101 is taken in by the address latch 102,
It is controlled by a signal from the CPU 101. A part of the signal output from the address latch 102 is input to the address decoder 105, where a chip select for each IC is made and used for making a memory map. In addition, the addresses are memories such as ROM and RAM, and the LCD controller 1.
08 is entered and used for addressing. On the other hand, CPU
A data bus from 101 is connected to a memory or LCD controller 108, and bidirectional data communication is executed. Also, the LCD controller 108 is the keyboard 10
By the signal from 7 or the signal from the touch panel 112,
Display data is created from the data stored in the ROM 109 and the RAM 110, and the display on the LCD module 111 is controlled.

13 to 22 show a liquid crystal display screen 82 (see FIG. 9).
It is an explanatory view showing a display example of (see). In FIG.
A message area 82a that displays messages such as "Ready to copy" and "Please wait" is displayed on the upper left, and a copy number display area 82b that displays the number of sheets set on the right.
Is. Below that, an automatic density key 82c that automatically adjusts the image density, an automatic paper selection key 82d that automatically selects transfer paper, a sort key 12e that specifies the process of aligning copies in page order, copy A stack key 82f for specifying a process for sorting each page, a staple key 82g for specifying a process for binding the sorted parts one by one, a normal size key 82h for setting the magnification to the same size, and an enlargement / reduction ratio to be set. Scaling key 82i,
There are a double-sided key 82j for setting the double-sided mode, an erasing / moving key 82k for setting the binding margin mode, and the like, and a concatenation mode key 82l for printing out a large number of printing operations in a plurality through the network of the digital copying machine. Keys are shaded in the selected mode.

FIG. 14 is a screen for setting which copying machine is used for expression in the connection mode. Select by pressing the key of each copier. When the setting is completed,
When the setting end key is pressed, the screen shown in FIG. 15 is displayed and the connection mode is set. To cancel this mode, press the key to cancel, and press again to display the screen shown in FIG. FIG. 16 is a display example when the jamming occurs in the remote machine during the connecting operation and the jamming is stopped, and the reason why the jamming is stopped and the reason thereof are displayed on the operating machine. Similarly at the paper end,
The reason is displayed. This display disappears when the abnormality on the remote machine is improved. FIG. 17 is a display example displayed when the connecting operation is completed for all the operation machine and the remote machine. This display is closed by pressing the confirmation key 82m. FIG. 18 shows that when the copying machine (4) is interrupted and the rest is shared among the operating machine, the copying machine (1) and the copying machine (7),
This is a display for notifying the end and the discharge destination at the end. This display is closed by pressing the confirmation key 82m. FIG. 19 is a display example displayed at that time on the machine during remote operation. FIG. 20 is a display example displayed at the start of the remote operation. It is displayed for a certain period of time and then switched to the display of FIG. It is displayed at the start of the operation and at the start after the interruption. FIG. 21 shows an example of a display displayed on a machine when the remaining printouts are shared by another machine after the machine is interrupted. FIG. 22 is a display example in which when the sharing operation is started, the operation device is informed of the operation.

Next, the outline of the control operation of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 5 shows an operation flow for transferring / printing (remote output) an image read by the digital PPC-I to the image forming apparatus of the digital PPC-II as described above, but remote output is possible. Responds to the “memory use request” (command in FIG. 5) from the digital PPC-I to the digital PPC-II from the system controller 3 “use permission” (FIG. 5).
Command in) is valid only when given.
That is, as shown in FIG. 6, when the digital PPC-II system controller 3 receives a “memory use request” (command in FIG. 6) from the digital PPC-I,
As shown in the figure, "arbitration processing" is executed according to the usage status of the system, and the result of the "arbitration processing" (command in FIG. 6) is returned to the digital PPC-I. As a matter of course, as shown in FIG. 5, as a result of the arbitration, the right to use request for the memory unit 4 of the digital PPC-II may be permitted, or the right to use request may be rejected.
When the request for the usage right is rejected, the digital PPC-I interrupts the processing or continues the processing by using only the resources owned by itself.

In FIG. 5, only the minimum necessary information is described in the operation of simply executing the remote output, but in the case of using a peripheral unit of the remote digital copying machine, only the memory use right is actually used. Is required not only to the remote digital copying machine, but also to the peripheral machine resources. Especially regarding the use of the paper discharge sorting device (sorter 26), if the arbitration is insufficient, the output paper (transfer paper) of the digital PPC-I and the digital PPC-II may be mixed at the paper output port. To do.

FIG. 23 is a flow chart showing a procedure for performing display processing of a remote machine in which the operating machine cannot continue. In this processing procedure, first, it is checked whether the operation mode is the connection operation mode, the operation mode is the connection operation mode (Y in S1), and if the machine is an operating machine (Y in S2), a jam or a paper end operation from a remote machine is performed. When the inexecutability is received (Y in S3), a display indicating the machine number and the inexecution reason is displayed (S4). When the remote machine has improved the jam or paper end and is able to continue, it sends a cancellation of cancellation of continuation, and when it receives it (Y in S5), the display is canceled (S6). Then, if the remaining operation of the remote machine is not shared by the other machine (Y in S7), a continuous operation request is made (S8). When it is possible to continue from a state where it is not possible to continue due to a reset such as a jam, the automatic start instruction is given.

FIG. 24 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for notifying the operating device of the inexecutability when the remote device is used. In this process, if the remote machine is operating (Y in S11) and the continuation is impossible (Y in S12), the operating machine is informed of the reason why the continuation is impossible (S13), and the number of finished sheets is recorded. Information is transmitted (S14). When the cause of continuation failure is released (Y in S15), a reset of continuation failure is transmitted to notify the fact (S16).

FIG. 25 is a flow chart showing the procedure for checking the cause of interruption during the printing operation. In this process, during printing operation (Y in S21), jam occurrence (Y in S22), paper end (Y in S24), abnormality occurrence (serviceman call) (Y in S26), toner end (Y in S28). The print operation is interrupted and stopped by the interruption request (Y in S30) (S23, S25, S2).
7, S29, S31).

FIG. 26 is a flow chart showing the processing procedure for starting the operation. In this process, first, an operation start instruction of the operating device (for example, press of the print key) is performed (Y in S41), and if this is not the connection operation mode (N in S42), the normal print operation is executed (S43). In the connection operation mode, the execution operation instruction for each operation is given to the remote machine operating together (S44), and the execution operation for the own machine (operation machine) is started (S45). At the same time, a linking operation flag for storing the linking operation in progress is set (S46).

27, 28, 29 and 30 are flow charts showing the procedure of the check process for the end of the connecting operation. In this process, if the connection operation mode is set (Y in S51), the operating device (Y in S52), the connection operation flag is set (Y in S53), and if the operation is in progress, the operation check of all remote machines is performed. In order to do so, first, the interruption stop machine storage buffer for checking is cleared (initialized) (S5
4) Reset a flag for checking whether the copying machine is in operation (S55) to check whether the copying machine (1) is set to the connecting operation as a remote machine or an operating machine. If it is set (Y in S56), the in-operation flag is set (Y in S57) (S58).
If the operation is not in progress and has not ended (interruption), (S
At 59, N), the data is stored in the interruption stop machine storage buffer as an interruption stop machine (S60). These processes are performed for eight connected devices (S56-1 to S56 in addition to S56 to S60.
-7, S57-1 to S57-7, S58-1 to S58-
7, S59-1 to S59-7, S60-1 to S60-
7).

If the operation check flag is set (Y in S61), as can be seen from the flowchart of FIG. When the flag is reset (N in S61), it is determined that the machine is stopped, and if there is any stored in the interruption stop machine storage buffer, it is determined that there is an interruption stop machine (Y in S62). At that time, the remaining print operation of the interrupted machine is distributed to the other completed machines, and the operation request is issued and executed. At that time, the image can be rotated by 90 ° in order to distinguish the front and the rear for each sharing operation, and the rotation of the image is instructed to the machine having the transfer paper for transferring it (S
63). For the purpose of distinction, it is also possible to add a partition by operating a shift tray or the like. At the same time, the machine for which the sharing is requested is stored (S64). At that time, the interrupted machine, which has been assigned the shared operation, is instructed to display the operation stop instruction and the output to the other machine (S65). Then, a display is provided on the operating device for notifying the sharing destination during the sharing operation (S66). If there is no suspending machine (N in S62), the coupling operation flag indicating the coupling operation is reset (S67), and if the sharing operation has been executed (Y in S68), a warning display indicating the discharge destination is displayed. (S69),
The end of the operation is displayed (S70).

FIG. 31 is a flow chart showing a processing procedure for receiving a remote operation request. In this process, when the remote operation request is received (Y in S81), when the operation cannot be accepted due to a reason such as an abnormality or the paper feed stage of the requested operation is the paper end (Y in S82). Then, the operation device is notified that the operation cannot be continued (S83), and the number of operation-completed sheets (0 in this case) is transmitted to the operation device (S84).
If it is acceptable (N in S82), the print operation is started (S85). When the operation continuation execution request for continuing the operation is received after the interruption (Y in S86),
Similar to the operation request, if the operation can be accepted (S87
Then N), and the continuation is started (S88).

In this embodiment, after an abnormality such as a jam occurs in the remote machine and the interruption is interrupted, the remaining operation is automatically started when the abnormality is cleared. Other people will not mistakenly consider it as a malfunction, and as a result, malfunctions can be reduced. In addition, operability is improved and total usage efficiency is improved by making it possible to know the end state of the operation of a plurality of machines. Further, by knowing what the final output form is, it is possible to prevent erroneous copying and improve operability. Also, since it is convenient to sort the output because it is output from the middle depending on the copy operation, it is done so. In addition, it is possible to make a distinction without attaching a post-processing device for sorting.

[0067]

As described above, according to the present invention, the following effects can be obtained. According to the first aspect of the invention, when one print operation is shared by a plurality of image forming apparatuses and is operated, when a paper jam or other abnormality occurs in one of the image forming apparatuses, an abnormality occurs. Since the operation of the image forming apparatus is stopped and the normal image forming apparatus continues the printing operation, the efficient printing operation can be performed without lowering the production efficiency.

According to the second aspect of the present invention, when a paper jam or other abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus other than the operating machine, a warning indicating that the operating machine has an abnormality and a digital copying machine in which the abnormality has occurred are issued. Since the operator is able to grasp the status of the system in which the work is shared by the operator, the operability can be improved and the operator can take appropriate measures against the above-mentioned abnormalities. It is possible to shorten the time and operate the entire system efficiently.

According to the third aspect of the present invention, since the remaining jobs shared by the image forming apparatus that has stopped operating due to an abnormality are executed by the normal image forming apparatus operating at the same time, the jam processing is performed. If it takes a long time, the image forming apparatus that may end the job early can execute the remaining job, and the total processing time can be kept short, and the efficient printing operation without reducing the production efficiency. It becomes possible to do. This is particularly effective when the operator is away from the operating device and cannot clear the jam.

According to the fourth aspect of the invention, after the job is completed, the operator is notified of the image forming apparatus of the output destination whose allocation has been changed, so that the operator outputs the final output form. Can be reliably recognized,
As a result, it is possible to prevent accidental re-copying, which in turn can improve operability.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when an abnormality occurs in the image forming apparatus that shares one printing operation and is not operated by the operator and the operation is interrupted, the abnormality is canceled. At times, the remaining operation is automatically started, so that downtime can be reduced, and further, operability can be improved by reducing the operation of the operator.

According to the sixth aspect of the invention, when one print operation is completed for all of the image forming apparatus operated by the operator and the image forming apparatus sharing the job, the operator operates to that effect. Since the image forming apparatus is informed, it is possible to grasp that the entire work has been completed by the image forming apparatus in the hand of the operator even if the image forming apparatuses are arranged separately from each other.
After that, it is possible to proceed with the work without waste such as going to obtain the output hard copy, thereby improving the operability and the overall efficiency of use.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a front view showing a schematic configuration of a digital copying machine as an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a conceptual diagram of a network system in which the present invention is applied to a digital copying machine.

FIG. 3 is a hardware configuration diagram of a network system of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a software configuration diagram of a network system of a digital copying machine according to an embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow flowing between the layers shown in FIG. 4 in time series.

6 is an explanatory diagram showing a data flow flowing between respective layers shown in FIG. 4 in time series.

FIG. 7 is a configuration diagram of an ADF.

FIG. 8 is a configuration diagram of an image forming apparatus management system.

FIG. 9 is a main part front view showing the external appearance of the operation unit of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 10 is a circuit diagram showing a touch panel detection circuit of the operation display unit of the digital copying machine.

FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram showing combinations of detection signals in the touch panel detection circuit.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram showing a configuration of an operation unit.

FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 14 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 15 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 16 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 17 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 18 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 19 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 20 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 21 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 22 is an explanatory diagram showing a display example of a liquid crystal display screen.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart showing a procedure of display processing of a remote machine in which the operating machine is unable to continue.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure for notifying a non-executable operating device when it is a remote device.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a process of checking an interruption factor during a printing operation.

FIG. 26 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of operation start processing.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a check process for ending the connecting operation.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a check process for ending the connecting operation.

FIG. 29 is a flowchart illustrating a procedure of a check process for ending the connecting operation.

FIG. 30 is a flowchart showing a procedure of a check process for ending the connecting operation.

FIG. 31 is a flowchart showing a procedure of remote operation request acceptance processing.

FIG. 32 is a system block diagram of a digital copying machine according to a conventional example.

FIG. 33 is a system block diagram of a digital copying machine according to another conventional example.

[Explanation of symbols]

 1 image reading unit 2 image writing unit 3 system controller 4 memory unit 5 user restricted device 6 human body detection sensor 7 CSS 8 clock 9 DRAM block 10 compression block 11 DMA block 20, 20a to 20h digital copying machine 21 ADF 22 operation unit 23 Image reading unit 24 Image forming unit 31 SCSI 32 SCSI controller 41 Copy application 42 Input / output control unit 43 Operation unit controller 44 Peripheral device controller 45 Image forming unit controller 46 Image reading unit controller 47 Daemon process

Claims (6)

[Claims] 1. A network system comprising a document conveying means, an image forming means, and a paper feeding means, wherein a plurality of image forming apparatuses are connected via a communication means for communicating operation commands, states, image information, etc. When one print operation is shared by the image forming apparatus and an operation occurs in a specific image forming apparatus, the operation of the image forming apparatus in which the error occurs is stopped and the other image forming apparatus operates normally. A network system comprising means for continuing the operation of the existing image forming apparatus. 2. When an abnormality occurs in an image forming apparatus other than the image forming apparatus operated by the operator, the operator operates a warning that specifies the abnormality and the image forming apparatus in which the abnormality has occurred. The network system according to claim 1, further comprising means for outputting to the image forming apparatus. 3. A means for causing a normal image forming apparatus operating at the same time to execute the remaining job shared by the image forming apparatus that has stopped operating due to an abnormality. 1. The network system according to 1. 4. The network system according to claim 3, further comprising means for notifying an image forming apparatus, which is operated by an operator, of the output destination image forming apparatus whose allocation has been changed, after the job is completed. . 5. When an abnormality occurs in an image forming apparatus that is in charge of one printing operation and is not operated by an operator and the operation is interrupted and the abnormality is released, the remaining operation is automatically performed. 2. The network system according to claim 1, further comprising means for starting. 6. When one print operation is completed for all of the image forming apparatus operated by the operator and the image forming apparatus sharing the job, the fact is notified to the image forming apparatus operated by the operator. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising means.