JPH11134129A - Information processor - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a variety of functions in addition to an information reading and a printing function by providing an additional processing means which performs an additional information processing for the reading and printing of information. SOLUTION: A console panel 101 is fixed to an additional function part 2902 provided by the side of a hybrid device body 2901 and a control box is built in. The back side of the control box is on the back side of the additional function part 2902, while the front side of the control box is within the cabinet of the part 2902 and is connected to one end of a multicable having the other end connected to the console panel 101. Casters are provided on the bottom of the additional function pat 2902, which is made laterally slidable to secure a work space at the maintenance of the hybrid device body 2901, allowing a clearance to a door which is opened for manual paper insertion or in case of a paper jam. Thus, the additional function part 2902 is installed on a bar fitted with the casters and this bar runs through the lower part of the hybrid device body 2901.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an apparatus for reading and printing information.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a complex information processing apparatus which reads and prints information and realizes functions of a printer, a scanner, a copying machine, and the like.

[0003]

However, such an information processing apparatus is also limited to reading and printing information, and it is desired that the information processing apparatus perform various functions in addition to the functions inherent in these apparatuses.

[0004]

According to the present invention, there is provided, in accordance with the present invention, a reading unit for executing reading of information, a printing unit for executing printing of information, Additional processing means for executing additional information processing for reading and printing.

[0005]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Hereinafter, an embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a printer according to the present embodiment.

In FIG. 1, an operation panel 101 allows a user to input information by touching with a finger, displays a menu, and selects and inputs an item from the menu.
A keyboard can be displayed and a character string can be input by touching the key. The operation panel 101 is supported by a support provided behind the printer main body 102, and is located above the printer.

The printer body 102 prints information such as documents and images received from the control box 103. The control box 103 controls execution of printing by the printer main body 102 based on operations from the operation panel 101 and instructions and information from an external device, and transmits instructions and information to other devices. Control box 10
3 is installed behind the printer body 102. The pedestal 104 is an option installed below the printer main body 102, and supplies printing paper.

An operation panel 101 is connected to a printer main body 102.
And the control box 103 is installed behind the printer main body 102 as described above, so in this embodiment, the manual tray provided on the side of the printer main body 102 can be used and the cover for maintenance can be freely opened and closed. .

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a connection configuration of the printer to the control box.

The control box 103 is connected to a device group 201 such as a host computer or another printer via a network, and is connected to the printer main body 102 via a parallel port. Also, a modem 202 and the like can be connected through an optional serial port.
Further, the control box 103 is connected to the operation panel 101 by a multi cable 203. The multi-cable 203 includes many cables for power supply, audio input / output, display, touch panel input, IrDA transmission / reception, switches, LED lighting, and the like. Details of the multi cable 203 will be described later with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between the control box 103 and the operation panel 101. The following connection
All are performed by the multi cable 203.

First, the IrDA transmitting / receiving unit 301 performs transmission and reception of infrared rays. This will be described later with reference to FIGS. The LED 302 is a fan stop warning lamp. This will be described later with reference to FIGS. The touch panel 303 receives power from the control box 103, receives a VGA signal, displays a screen for a GUI, and transmits a touch panel signal (RX, TX, GTR, RTS). The switch 304 is a switch for turning on and off the LCD backlight. This will be described later with reference to FIG. The audio amplifier 305 receives and amplifies the audio output from the control box 103, and
Output to Microphone 307 performs voice input and transmits it to control box 103.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the control box 103.

In this embodiment, the processing instruction command (Job) is set to 1
Job generation unit 401, analysis and execution unit
402, each of the output processing units 403 is operated at an appropriate timing.

A conventional printer is connected to a printer main body 102.
It was expressed. The printer main body 102 receives print information from the outside of the printer main body 102, executes a print process according to an instruction, and outputs a print result, similarly to the related art.

First, a case where an operation is performed by a user will be described. When the user performs any operation from the operation panel 101 or the like, a Job corresponding to the operation is generated by the Job generation unit 401 and added to the database 404.

The Job added to the database 404 is
It is monitored by the analysis / execution unit 402, and it is sequentially checked whether execution conditions are satisfied. As a result, if a job that satisfies the execution condition is found, the process corresponding to that job is executed, and the
Is updated.

For example, when the user designates the time and instructs printing, the job generation unit 401 determines
It is generated as a Job and added to the database 404. Here, if the job `` analyze the operation contents when a user operates and re-register this Job '' in the database 404, the When the analysis / execution unit 402 discovers that the Job exists in the database 404, the operation content of the user is analyzed, and a corresponding process is determined.
And added to the database 404.

In this case, the print processing is added as a job, the job representing the operation content of the user is updated as analyzed, and the job for analyzing the user operation is re-registered.

At the time specified by the user, the job of the generated print processing is executed, print information is generated and passed to the printer main body 102, and a new job "When a print result is output, "Reflect" is added to the database 404. The printer body 102 executes printing as instructed and outputs a print result, similarly to the related art. Further, after the printing is completed, the execution result is acquired as a printer status from the printer main body 102 and reflected on the Job.

If the printer main body 102 of this embodiment runs out of paper or toner or some error occurs, a job generation unit 401 acquires a change in the printer status of the printer main body 102 and generates a corresponding Job. Added to database 404. For example, when it is determined from the printer status of the printer main body 102 that the toner has run out, the occurrence of the printer status is generated as a Job and added to the database 404.

If the job "notify the order request when the toner runs out and register this job again" is specified in the database 404, the job The process is executed and the Job is registered again. As a result, when the same situation occurs, the process is executed every time.

Also, even if the status changes the same,
The same processing is performed not only for the printer main body 102 but also for a change in the internal status which is a state of other parts.

For example, a case where the power of the backlight of the liquid crystal touch panel 303 is turned off is an example. Here, when a job that specifies processing to be performed in response to the occurrence of the above status in advance and executes initialization processing when the power of the backlight is turned off and re-registers this Job is in the database 404 , The initialization process is executed, Job
Is re-registered. Accordingly, it is possible to perform a periodic initialization process at an appropriate timing necessary for stably operating the product.

When a change in the external situation is acquired by the job generation unit 401, a corresponding job is generated and added to the database 404.

For example, when an error occurs in an external printer connected via a network or the like, the occurrence of a change in the external situation is generated as a Job and added to the database 404. Here, a job that specifies processing to be performed in response to a change in the external situation in advance is sent.
If "re-register ob" is in the database 404, the output processing unit 403 sends a job transmission instruction command to the printer in which the error has occurred, and the job is re-registered in the database 404. As a result, when the same situation occurs, the same processing is executed every time.

When a processing instruction command (Job) is sent from the outside, the job generating unit 401 receives this command, generates a corresponding job, and adds the generated job to the database 404.

For example, when a job transmission instruction command is sent, the fact that the job transmission instruction command has been received is generated as a job and added to the database 404.

Here, if the job “when the job is received, add the received job and re-register this job” is present in the database 404, Job transmission instruction command is added, and Job
Is re-registered.

Subsequently, when the execution condition of the Job transmission instruction command is met, transmission processing corresponding to the Job is executed, and the Job is transmitted.

Next, a case where a print information transmission instruction command is received other than the above-described Job transmission instruction command will be described.

For example, in order to print information held by another information output device, it is necessary to obtain corresponding print information from the information. As an example of a realizing method, there is a method in which the information itself is transmitted. In this method, it is necessary that a printing process corresponding to the information can be realized by the own apparatus.
Therefore, in this example, a case will be described as another method in which print information corresponding to the information is transmitted.

When the print information transmission instruction command 106 is sent from another device, the fact that the job has been received is generated as a job and added to the database 404. Thereafter, when the execution condition of the job is satisfied, the print information transmission process corresponding to the job is executed. In the print information transmission process,
Print information is generated from the requested information and transmitted as instructed.

On the side of the information output device that has received the transmitted print information, the job generation unit 401 obtains the print information.
It is generated as a Job and added to the database 404.

Here, as described above, at the time when the print information transmission instruction command is transmitted in advance, it is assumed that the print information is transmitted, and the job "print information from the transmission destination of the print information transmission instruction command" Execute print processing when receiving
Should be added to the database 404, the printing process is executed, and the received printing information is
2, the printing is executed, and the printing result is output.

In addition to the example of the processing instruction command described above, there is also a processing instruction command for instructing notification and output. Of course, these processing instruction commands may be received from the outside, or may be stored in the database 404 in advance.

For example, when the execution condition of the notification instruction command is satisfied, notification processing is executed, and notification is made using Email, Tel, or FAX. When the execution condition of the output instruction command is satisfied, output processing is executed, and processing such as display and audio output is executed.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a main hardware configuration of the present embodiment. Switches and fans are omitted.

An information output device according to an embodiment of the present invention includes a microphone 307, a touch panel 303, a keyboard / mouse 5
01, input devices such as an IrDA transmitting / receiving unit 301, a network 502, and a modem 202, and input information is obtained from the input unit 503. Further, the printer status of the printer main body 102 is also obtained from the input unit 503 via a Centro cable or the like. The internal status other than the printer body 102 is also
It is detected and acquired by an internal sensor, monitor, or the like.

On the other hand, the processing result is output from the output unit 504 to the printer main body 102, the display 510, the speaker 208, and the LED 20.
9.Infrared transceiver 210, network 502, modem 202
Is output as information corresponding to each of such output devices. For example, when print processing is executed, print information is passed to the printer main body 102 via a Centro cable or the like. The printer body 102 executes printing according to the received print information and outputs a print result. Note that the input unit 503 and the output unit 504 are not necessarily physically separate.

The CPU 508 executes various programs including a processing procedure described later with reference to a flowchart, and controls each unit of the apparatus connected by the system bus 511.
Further, the functions of the above-described Job generation unit 401, analysis / execution unit 402, and output processing unit 403 are realized by executing corresponding programs.

The ROM 505 stores fixed data and programs. The RAM 506 temporarily stores data and programs. Hard disk drive (HDD) 507
Can permanently store programs and data on a hard disk, and are used as the database 404 described above.
A system bus 511 connects the above-described units of the apparatus and is used as a medium for transmitting and receiving data, addresses, and control signals between the apparatuses.

Various programs including the processing procedures described later with reference to the flowcharts may be stored in the ROM 505, or may be loaded from the HDD 507 to the RAM 506 prior to the processing or during execution of the processing as necessary. Is also good. Further, instead of the HDD 507, another external storage device such as an MO drive may be used.

With the above configuration, the Jo corresponding to the input information
b is generated by the Job generation unit 401 and added to the database 404 on the hard disk 507, and the analysis and execution unit 402
Job from the database 404 on the hard disk 507
, The corresponding processing is executed, and the processing of outputting the processing result by the output processing unit 403 is realized.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the printer.

In the figure, a control box power cable 601, a printer power cable 602, and a pedestal power cable 603 are connected to the control box 1 respectively.
03, used to supply power to the printer body 102 and pedestal 104. A centro cable 604 connects the control box 103 and the printer main body 102. Prop
605 supports the operation panel 101 and the multi-cable 20
3 passes inside the column 605.

The plate 606 is sandwiched between the printer main body 102 and the pedestal 104, and the control box 103 and the support 605 are fixed on the plate 605. The details of the plate 605 will be described later with reference to FIG. As described above, the operation panel 101 is connected to the control box 103 via the multi cable 203,
03 is connected to the printer main body 102 via the Centro cable 604.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the control box 103.

In the figure, (a) is a side surface close to the operation panel 101, and (b) is a side surface on the opposite side. The multi cable connector 701 connects the multi cable 203 for connecting to the operation panel 101. Main switch 7
02 turns the power of the control box 103 on and off. The power connector 703 connects the control box power cable 601. The intake 704 takes in outside air for the internal fan. COM port 705 is RS232C
For serial communication. A network cable connector 706 connects a cable for connecting to the network 502. Centro cable connector 706
Is connected to a Centro cable 604 for connecting to the printer main body 102.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between the operation panel and the control box.

The multi-cable 203 is detachably connected to the operation panel 101 by a connector 801 and detachably connected to the control box 103 by a connector 802.
Therefore, it is easy to replace one of the operation panel 101 and the control box 103.

FIG. 9 is a diagram for explaining the detailed configuration of the multi-cable.

The support 605 is made of an iron pipe, supports the operation panel 101, and also serves as an external shield for the multi-cable 203 passing therethrough. The multi-cable 203 is collectively shielded as one line, and the cables 901 to 907 are shielded in the multi-cable 203, respectively.

The cable 901 transmits an LCD power switch processing signal from the operation panel 101 to the control box 103 when the LCD power switch 303 is turned on and off on the operation panel 101. The cable 902 transmits a fan stop notification signal from the control box 103 to the operation panel 101 to change the color of the LED and notify the user when the fan inside the control box 103 stops. Cable 903 is connected to control box 103 and operation panel 101
It is used for transmission and reception of information by infrared rays between it and GND (earth). Cable 904 has image display information (R, G, B, H, V)
And GND (earth). Cable 905 is
Includes touch panel transmission / reception information (RX, TX, CTS, RTS) and GND (earth). The cable 906 has audio input information (Mic i
n), including output information (Line Out) and GND (earth). Cable 907 has an analog output power supply 12b and a digital control power supply 5
V, LCD power supply 12V and GND (earth).

As described above, the multi-cable 203 connecting the control box 103 and the operation panel 101 has a function of transmitting a plurality of information.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing the configuration of a multi-input / output board.

A multi-input / output board 1001 is provided in the operation panel 101, and a multi-cable connector 1004 is provided.
To connect to the multi cable 203. IrDA transceiver 301
Sends and receives infrared information. The LED light emitting unit 302 emits light by a signal transmitted from the fan stop notifying unit, and notifies the stop of the fan. The audio amplifier 305 amplifies audio information received from an audio output processing unit 1106 described later and outputs the amplified audio information to the speaker 306. The LCD power supply 1002 is a power supply for the LCD backlight. In order to extend the life of the backlight, the LCD power supply is separately supplied so that only the LCD backlight can be turned off. The LCD backlight power switch 303 sends a signal to an LCD power SW processing unit 1108 described later. The touch panel 303 sends information input by touch to an RS232C receiving unit 1103 described below, receives display information from a VGA 1102 described below, and displays the information on a screen. The microphone 307 sends the input audio information to an audio input processing unit 1105 described below.

As described above, the multi-input / output board 1001 has a plurality of functions on one board.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of the control box.

The IrDA control section 1101 processes infrared transmission / reception information. The VGA 1102 sends display information to the display of the touch panel 303. RS232C receiving section 1103 receives information from the touch panel. The fan stop notifying unit 1104 receives a signal from the CPU fan and the outside air intake fan, and sends a notification signal to the LED light emitting unit 302 when one or both fans stop. The voice input processing unit 1105 receives and processes voice information input from a microphone. The audio output processing unit 1106 outputs the audio information to the audio amplifier 305 as line information. The power supply 1107 has an analog output power supply 5V, a digital control power supply 12V, and an LCD power supply 12V. LCD power switch processing unit 1108
Receives a signal from the switch 304, sends a signal to the power supply 1107, and cuts off power supply to the LCD power supply 1003.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing the internal configuration of the control box.

The control box 103 includes a hard disk drive 507, a power control unit 1201, a CPU board 1202,
It has a base 1204.

The power supply control unit 1201 has an analog output power supply 5V,
It has a digital control power supply 12V and an LCD power supply 12V. The single power supply is divided into two, and the input / output board power supply (digital control and analog output) and the backlight power supply are separately supplied.

The CPU board 1202 includes an audio output processing unit 1106, an audio input processing unit 1105, an RS232C receiving unit 1103, a VGA 1102, an IrDA control unit 1101, and includes a CPU fan 1203. CPU
And the IrDA control unit 1101 is attached to the related control device. The D base 1204 includes an IrDA control unit and a fan stop notification unit.

The control unit (D-based) and the transmitting / receiving unit (S-
(Base)) to facilitate maintenance and upgrade work on the control unit. Also,
The signals of the CPU fan 1203 and the sensor of the outside air intake fan are combined into one signal on the board, and the signal is supplied to the fan stop notification unit 1104. Also, multi-cable connector 70
1 converts various signals into one multi-cable.

FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining a case where a force is applied to the operation panel. (a) is a rear view of the operation panel 101, and (b) is a side view thereof.

As shown in (b), the upper end of the support pipe 605 is bent in the front direction of the printer main body 102, and the pipe 1305 is fixed to the tip thereof in a T-shape so as to be horizontal. These shall be integrated by welding. At both ends of the pipe 1305, pipe clips 1304 that can rotate around the pipe with the pipe interposed therebetween are attached. Then, the pipe clip 1304 is fixed to the operation panel 101 with the rear bracket 1303 and the screw 1301 so as to pass horizontally through the center of gravity 1301 of the operation panel, and the pipe clip 1304 rotates around the pipe 1305, whereby the operation panel 101 is rotated. Can be tilted up and down.

On the other hand, the plate 606 does not move due to the weight of the printer main body 102, and a pipe block 1306 is fixed on this plate 606 with screws, and the support pipe 605 is attached to the pipe block 1306. It is inserted and fixed to the pipe block 1306 with screws.

With the above configuration, in the present embodiment, when the operation is performed with a strong force, the entire operation panel 101 is moved so that the touch panel 303 is not deformed. Thus, the weight is reduced by first forming an angle on the operation surface. 2. Rotation of the panel prevents damage to the panel body. Further, the bending of the support pipe 605 absorbs impact and reduces the load. Also,
Shock is absorbed by the distance between the center of rotation and the base, reducing the load.

Specifically, when the point A around the panel is pressed by the force of AF in (b), the panel rotates to avoid deformation of the panel body.

On the other hand, when the point B at the center of the panel is pressed with the force BF, the panel does not rotate. However, at this time,
Deformation (bending) of the support pipe 605 avoids damage to the panel. That is, the pipe is reduced by the angle α so that the bending amount of the original column becomes BF> breakage limit force> BF cosα, and the pipe has elasticity.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a case where a strong force is applied to the operation panel. FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a force pressing the operation panel and a force applied to the printer.

In FIG. 15, if the operation panel is pressed with a force exceeding the limit point, there is a danger that the printer will fall down as it is. Therefore, in the present embodiment, when a strong force is applied, a part is destroyed instead of falling down.

FIG. 18 is a view for explaining a method of fixing a support pipe.

First, the pipe block 1306 is fixed to the plate 606 at two places by the pipe block fixing screws 1401. Insert the support pipe 605 into the fixed pipe block 1306, and from the screw hole opened on the side of the pipe block 1306,
Screw the pipe fixing screw 1402 to fix the pipe.

Therefore, in FIG.
If a strong force acts on the pipe block 1306, the pipe fixing screw 1402 fixing the support pipe 605 to the pipe block 1306 is loosened or broken. Alternatively, the pipe block fixing screw 1401 fixing the pipe block 1306 to the plate 606 is loosened or broken. Specifically, when a force that bends the support pipe 605 further than the angle α acts, BF> breakage limit force> BF cosα, and the pipe is broken.

FIG. 16 is a view for explaining the arrangement of the control box when a pedestal is attached.

In the figure, a paper feed mechanism 1601 feeds paper from the pedestal 104 through a transport path 1602. Then, the plate 606 is sandwiched between the printer main body 102 and the pedestal 104, and the support 605 and the control box 103 are fixed thereon. As a result, the printer main body 102 can be fixed using its own weight, and the printer main body 102 does not need to be directly attached to the printer main body 102.

The plate 606 is shaped not only to rest on the pedestal 104 but also to easily fix the plate 606.

Specifically, the plate 606 is formed by cutting out the foot portion of the printer main body 102 and providing a projection 1701. When the pedestal 104 and the printer main body 102 are fixed by the positioning pins 1704 and the fasteners 1705, the plate Positioning pin fixing bracket
Insert the projection 1701 and the insertion rod 1702 into 1705, and insert the insertion rod
1702 is fixed at three points by fixing with screws 1703.
As a result, the control box 103 can be installed so as not to affect the structure (height) of the paper feed mechanism 1601 and the printer main body 102 and not to hinder the paper feed.
At the time of fixing, the positioning and fixing are facilitated by using the insertion rod 1702 which is not integral with the tray 606 together with the projection 1701.

Therefore, if the shape of the plate 606 is changed for each model, the column 605 and the control box 103 can be attached to any device without changing the shape of the main body.

FIG. 17 is a view for explaining the positional relationship between the pedestal, the printer body and the plate.

In FIG. 17, A, B, C, and D on the bottom of the printer main body 102 are the feet of the printer main body 102, and a, b, c, and d on the plate 606 are the feet A, B of the linter main body 102, respectively. , C, and D. Further, E, F, and G on the upper part of the pedestal 104 are positioning pins for determining a position on which the printer main body 102 is mounted, and e, f, and g on the bottom surface of the printer main body 102 correspond to the positioning pins E, F, and G, respectively. The corresponding pin holes.

The insertion bar 1702 is inserted into the inside of the stopper 1705 supporting the positioning pin 1704 until it comes into contact with the positioning pin 1704. The other end of the insertion rod 1702 is fixed to the plate 606 by an insertion rod fixing screw 1703. The protrusion 1701 that is integrally formed from the plate 606 is also the insertion rod 1
As in the case of 702, it is inserted into the metal fitting 1705. At three points for fixing the plate, the fixing of the plate is facilitated by using the insertion rod 1702 which is fixed to the plate 606 by the insertion rod fixing screw 1703 without providing the projection for fixing all. .

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing the appearance of the operation panel. (a) shows the front, and (b) shows the back.

On the front surface, a touch panel 303 which is a display and operation screen, a speaker 306, an IrDA transmitting / receiving section 301, an LED display section
302 are provided. On the other hand, on the back, there is a multi-cable connector 701, and a rear bracket 1302 for attaching the operation panel 101 to a support via a pipe clip is screwed. On the side, the backlight power switch 30
Three are provided.

FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining a backlight power supply. In the figure, the backlight power switch 303
Turns off only the display of the screen.

In the operation panel 101, the continuous use of the liquid crystal screen deteriorates the quality of the screen. In order to avoid this, it is necessary to frequently turn off the display of the screen, but the operation panel 101 does not have an independent power supply and is supplied with power from the control box 103. However, the printer itself may always be used,
The power of the entire control box 103 cannot be turned off.

Therefore, in the present embodiment, as described with reference to FIG. 11, the power supply in the control box 103 is divided, and the power switch processing unit 1108 processes an instruction signal corresponding to the on / off operation of the backlight power switch 303. Thus, only display on the screen can be turned off.

FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a configuration relating to lighting of the pilot lamp.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart relating to the fan state detecting process of the operating state detecting unit.

The operation state detecting unit 1104 detects the CPU fan.
A state of the outside air intake fan in the outside air intake port 704 and the outside air intake port 704 is detected, and a fan stop signal is transmitted when any of them is stopped (steps S2201 to S205). Upon receiving the fan stop signal, the pilot lamp 302 turns red. That is, when at least one of the two fans stops, the lamp 302 turns red.

The present invention is not limited to this. The fan stop signal can further indicate various states, and the color of the lamp can be changed to red, green, orange, etc. It may be possible to identify whether the fan has stopped or which fan has stopped, whether the fan has stopped completely, or has malfunctioned.

The notification to the user is not limited to the above-described pilot lamp, and a warning sound may be emitted from a speaker or a warning message may be displayed on the operation panel. Further, a user or an administrator who is not near the apparatus may be notified of the abnormality by telephone, e-mail FAX, or the like.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart relating to the shutdown processing.

For example, the operation state detection unit 1104 detects an abnormality such as detection of a fan stop, and if there is an abnormality, executes a shutdown process (step S2301).
~ 2304).

Here, when there is a danger that an unpredictable operation may be performed by detecting a change in the state, shutdown is automatically executed and the power is turned off to avoid this. The shutdown process may be executed not only when the fan is stopped but also when an abnormal rise in the temperature inside the apparatus or an abnormal operation of the external storage device is detected.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart relating to the re-initialization processing.

The usage status is detected, and if it is not being used, an initialization process is executed (steps S2401-2404).

There is a risk that the apparatus becomes unstable in terms of software and hardware during the continuous operation of the apparatus (for example, because of the use of a system module, noise). In order to avoid this, the initialization process (cutting the process and restarting the process) is executed at a timing when it is determined that the user is not using the device and the initialization process can be operated without any problem.

Whether the screen is being used may be sensed, for example, when the screen disappears (the user explicitly erases the screen or there is no operation for a predetermined time).

FIG. 25 is a flowchart relating to the situation determination processing.

The state of the apparatus is sensed, and the processing to be executed is changed according to the state. Specifically, when giving a notification,
The state of the power switch on the screen is detected, and if the screen is ON, a person is nearby, and the notification is made by screen display or sound. On the other hand, if the screen is OFF, there is no person nearby, so notification is made by e-mail or telephone. Also, simply screen O
If N, display may be used, and if the screen is OFF, other than display may be used.

In addition to the ON / OFF state of the screen, it is also possible to detect that a person is nearby by returning to the screen saver during operation, or by using an infrared ray using an IrDA transmission / reception unit described later with reference to FIGS. The detection may determine whether a person is in front of the device.

FIG. 26 is a diagram for explaining an authentication processing operation by the IrDA transmitting / receiving section of the operation panel.

[0107] In the figure, (a) shows the IrDA transceiver 30.
This indicates that the user A transmits the authentication information of the user A by his / her remote controller 2601 in response to the authentication information request signal from 1. (B) similarly indicates that the user B transmits the authentication information of the user B using his / her remote controller 2601.

(C) shows that it is detected that the authentication information request signal has been reflected and input, and it is determined that there is a person in front of the apparatus. On the other hand, (d) indicates that there is no reflection of the authentication information request signal, so that it is determined that no one is in front of the apparatus.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of an authentication process by the IrDA transmitting / receiving section of the operation panel.

The IrDA transmission / reception unit 301 always transmits an authentication information request signal, and when receiving the authentication information, executes a process corresponding to the authenticated operator (steps S2701 to S270).
3). For example, a menu corresponding to the level permitted by the operator is displayed, or a process corresponding to the setting customized by the operator is executed.

If no authentication information is received, the IrDA
The presence or absence of a person is detected by reflection, and when the presence of a person is detected, the processing when the person is present is performed. When the presence of the person is not detected, the authentication information request signal is transmitted. Repeat (steps S2704 to S2706). For example, when the presence of a person is detected, the screen is restored from the screen saver, or a message prompting the use of the device is displayed or output as sound.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart of authentication information transmission processing by the remote control of the user.

Remote controller 2601 has user-specific authentication information, receives an authentication information request signal from IrDA transmitting / receiving section 301, and transmits user-specific authentication information. Furthermore, IrD
A remote control operation can be performed using the A transmitting / receiving unit 301.

Next, an embodiment relating to a multifunction peripheral having a printing function and a reading function will be described. Such an apparatus functions as a printer, a copy, and is also used as a scanner, a facsimile, and the like.

FIG. 29 is an external view of the multifunction peripheral of this embodiment.

The operation panel 101 is fixed to the additional function unit 2902 installed beside the multifunction device main body 2901, and the control box 103 is built therein.

FIG. 30 is a rear view of the multifunction peripheral. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a front view and a rear view of the control box.

As shown in FIG. 30, on the back of the additional function unit 2902, there is the back of the control box 103 shown in FIG. This is the same structure as that described with reference to FIG. On the other hand, the front side of the control box 103 is connected to the other end of the multi-cable 203 having one end connected to the operation panel 101 in the housing of the additional function unit 2902.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between the operation panel and the control box.

The multi cable 203 is detachably connected to the operation panel 101 by a connector 801 and is detachably connected to the control box 103 by a connector 802.

FIG. 33 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the multifunction peripheral. (a) shows a normal installation state, and (b) shows a state in which the additional function unit has been moved.

FIG. 34 is a diagram for explaining the configuration of the lower part of the multifunction peripheral.

In FIG. 33, an original set on the feeder 3301 or an original set directly on the original platen under the feeder 3301 is read and copied on paper fed from the paper feed tray 3305, and the copy result is displayed. To the paper output tray 3306. To set a document on the platen, the feeder 3301 is lifted to the rear side of the apparatus with the back side of the feeder 3301 as a fulcrum.

For this reason, the operation panel 101 of the present embodiment
Differs from the example described with reference to FIG. 1 in that it is installed next to the device, not at the top of the device. Here, if it is installed on the paper output tray 3306 side, it will prevent the frequently performed operation of taking out the copy result from the paper output tray 3306, so it is installed on the opposite side.

It should be noted, however, that a manual feed tray 3308 for manual feed and a maintenance cover 3309 which needs to be opened in the event of a paper jam are also provided on that side. Additional functions for use
Need to be able to move 2902. Therefore, the additional function unit 29
A caster 3304 is provided at the bottom of 02 so that it can slide sideways. As a result, a work space can be secured during maintenance of the multifunction peripheral main body 2901 so that it does not obstruct the door that is opened when manual paper feeding or paper jam occurs.

In order to make the movable type, the casters
The additional function unit 2902 is set on the bar 3307 provided with 3304. The bar 3307 is formed by connecting the center of each of two parallel plate-shaped members with another plate-shaped member.
It has a mold structure. Note that the above description is for convenience, and the bar 3307 does not need to be formed of three members, and may be formed as a single plate. This bar 3307
Through the lower part of the multifunction device main body 2901, fix the additional function part 2902 on one of the parallel parts, attach the guide 3302 to both ends of the other parallel part, and guide the 3302 When the bar 3307 moves while being in contact with the back surface, the additional function unit 2902 moves in the right lateral direction of the apparatus. Three casters 3304 were attached to the bar 3307 (two at the lower part of the additional function unit 2902 and one at the center of the two guides 3302).

Thus, the multifunction device main body 2901 can be installed by inserting the bar 3307 with the casters 3304 from below without adding or processing members. Without moving the multifunction device main body 2901, the bar 3307 is inserted diagonally, and the additional function part 29 of the bar 3307 is inserted between the legs of the multifunction device main body 2901.
Install a member parallel to the lower part of 02. After installation, the additional function unit 2902 is fixed by attaching a guide to the bar.

Further, in order to enhance the stability during operation, the width of the control box cover of the additional function unit 2902 is made larger than that of the control box 103 to ensure stability.

FIG. 35 is a diagram for explaining a method of fixing a support pipe.

The operation panel 101 is supported by two support pipes, and each support pipe is attached to the bar 3307 as follows. First, pipe block 1306,
Plate 60 at two places with pipe block fixing screw 1401
Fix to 6. The support pipe 605 is inserted into the fixed pipe block 1306, and a pipe fixing screw 1402 is screwed through a screw hole formed in a side surface of the pipe block 1306 to fix the pipe.

FIG. 36 is an external view of the scanner according to the embodiment.

In the scanner of this embodiment, in order to add additional functions, some or all of the functions of the control box 103 described above are incorporated into the scanner main body 3604 and operated by the cable 3604 connected to the back of the scanner main body 3604. Connect to panel 101. The operation panel 101 is used by directly placing it on a desk.

Also in this embodiment, the functions described above with reference to FIGS. 20 to 28 can be realized. Also, as in other examples, the control box may be installed on the back or side of the device.

The functions described above with reference to FIGS.
A storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the function is supplied to an apparatus or a system,
This may be achieved by a computer in the device or the system reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

Further, by reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium by a computer in the apparatus or the system, not only the above-described functions are directly realized, but also the computer is controlled based on the instruction of the program code. The above-described functions may be realized by processing of the OS or the like running on the OS.

In these cases, the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

[0137]

As described above, according to the present invention,
There is an effect that other functions can be performed in addition to the original functions of the information processing apparatus.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer according to an embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing a connection configuration to a control box.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between a control box and an operation panel.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration of a control box.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a main hardware configuration of the embodiment.

FIG. 6 is a rear view of the printer.

FIG. 7 is a side view of the control box.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between an operation panel and a control box.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a multi-cable.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a configuration of a multi-input / output board.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a functional configuration of a control box.

FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an internal configuration of a control box.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a case where a force is applied to the operation panel.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a case where a strong force is applied to the operation panel.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a relationship between a force pressing the operation panel and a force applied to the printer.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an arrangement of a control box when a pedestal is attached.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating the positional relationship between the plate and the pedestal and the printer body.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a method of fixing a support pipe.

FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an operation panel.

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a backlight power supply.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a configuration related to lighting of a pilot lamp.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart relating to a fan state detection process of an operation state detection unit.

FIG. 23 is a flowchart related to a shutdown process.

FIG. 24 is a flowchart relating to a re-initialization process.

FIG. 25 is a flowchart related to a situation determination process.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating an authentication processing operation by the IrDA transmitting / receiving unit of the operation panel.

FIG. 27 is a flowchart of an authentication process by the IrDA transmitting / receiving unit of the operation panel.

FIG. 28 is a flowchart of authentication information transmission processing by the remote control of the user.

FIG. 29 is an external view of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment.

FIG. 30 is a rear view of the multifunction peripheral.

FIG. 31 is a front view and a rear view of the control box.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing a connection configuration between an operation panel and a control box.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a multifunction peripheral.

FIG. 34 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a lower portion of the multifunction peripheral.

FIG. 35 is a diagram illustrating a method of fixing a support pipe.

FIG. 36 is an external view of a scanner according to the embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 101 operation panel 102 printer body 103 control box 104 pedestal 201 device group 202 modem 203 multi-cable 301 IrDA transmission / reception unit 302 LED 303 touch panel 304 switch 305 audio amplifier 306 speaker 307 microphone 401 Job generation unit 402 analysis / execution unit 403 output processing unit 404 Database 501 Keyboard / mouse 502 Network 503 Input unit 504 Output unit 505 ROM 506 RAM 507 HDD 508 CPU 510 Display 511 System bus 601 Control box power cable 602 Printer power cable 603 Pedestal power cable 604 Centro cable 605 Post 606 Plate 701 Multi cable Connector 702 Main switch 703 Power connector 704 Inlet 705 COM port 706 Network cable connector 801, 802 Command analyzer 901 to 907 Cable 1001 Multi input / output board 1002 LCD power supply 1101 IrDA control unit 1102 VGA 1103 RS232C reception unit 1104 Fan stop notification unit 1105 Audio input processing unit 1106 Audio output processing unit 1107 Power supply 1108 LCD power SW processing unit 1201 Power control unit 1202 CPU board 1203 CPU fan 1204 D base 1301 Center of gravity 1303 Rear bracket 1304 Pipe clip 1305 Pipe 1306 Pipe block 1401 Pipe block fixing screw 1402 Pipe fixing screw 1601 Paper feed mechanism 1602 1701 projections 1702 inserted rod 1703 screw 1704 positioning pins 1705 positioning pin fixing member 2601 remote 2901 multifunction apparatus main body 2902 additional function unit 3301 feeder 3302 Guide 3304 casters 3305 paper feed tray 3306 discharge tray 3307 bar 3308 Bypass tray 3309 maintenance cover

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Masayuki Takayama 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Inside Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Jaya Chandran Thresh 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo No. Canon Inc.

Claims (18)

[Claims] An information processing apparatus includes: a reading unit that reads information; a printing unit that prints information; and an additional processing unit that performs additional information processing for reading and printing the information. Information processing device. 2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an input unit for allowing a user to input the additional processing unit. 3. The information processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein said input means includes at least one of a microphone, a touch panel, a keyboard, and a mouse. 4. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising storage means for storing information necessary for processing by said additional processing means. 5. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, wherein said storage means includes at least one of a hard disk, a floppy disk, a CD, and a storage device of another information processing apparatus connected via a network. apparatus. 6. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an external situation acquisition unit that acquires information necessary for processing by the additional processing unit from an external situation. 7. The information processing apparatus according to claim 6, wherein said external situation obtaining means includes at least one of a sensor for detecting an external situation and a network for acquiring an external situation. . 8. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: an internal status acquisition unit that acquires information necessary for processing by the additional processing unit from a status inside the printing unit or the reading unit. 9. A central cable for directly connecting said printing means and said reading means to said additional processing means, wherein said internal situation acquiring means indirectly connects said printing means and said reading means to said additional processing means. 9. The information processing apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the information is acquired via at least one of the network cables connected to the information processing apparatus. 10. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising an additional processing means internal status acquisition means for obtaining information necessary for processing by the additional processing means from a status inside the additional processing means. 11. An additional processing means internal status acquisition means,
2. The apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising at least one of a cooling fan abnormality notification unit and a memory use state abnormality notification unit.
0. An information processing apparatus according to claim 0. 12. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a notifying unit that executes a notification based on the processing of the additional processing unit. 13. The notifying means includes a display means using a display, an audio output means using a speaker, and an LED.
13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising at least one of a warning unit using a communication, and a communication unit using a modem, infrared rays, or a network. 14. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising output means for outputting a processing result of the additional processing means. 15. The output unit includes a display unit using a display, an audio output unit using a speaker, and an LED.
13. The information processing apparatus according to claim 12, further comprising at least one of a warning unit using a communication, and a communication unit using a modem, infrared rays, or a network. 16. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising a communication unit for receiving at least one of information necessary for the additional processing unit and transmitting the information based on the processing of the additional processing unit. 17. The information processing apparatus according to claim 16, wherein said communication means uses at least one of a modem, an infrared ray, and a network. 18. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said additional processing means executes processing based on processing instruction command information including a type of processing.