JPS6132651A - Reserving system of apparatus - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To reserve simply and surely the use of unused apparatus in a group of apparatus by indicating information of discrimination of each apparatus and result of detection of a status detecting device in a group of apparatus when operating a reserving key and indicating that the apparatus is reserved. CONSTITUTION:For instance, indication such as ''please wait'', ''copying possible'' etc. made according to the state of rising up of a fixing heater of a fixing section 39, indication of number of set sheets (number of initializing sheets is ''1'') that indicates number of copies, indication of paper size stored in the first and second trays 33, 34 and indication of copy density etc. are made in the first display area. The second display area is a graphic display area, and expanation of various modes provided in copiers 1-10 is indicated in a period from power source on to rising up of temperature of the fixing heater to set temperature.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION The present invention relates to a reservation system that can reserve the use of each device in a group of devices such as a copying machine, a facsimile machine, a word processor, or a workstation for various information processing.

Recently, companies, government offices, schools, etc. are installing a large number of equipment, such as copiers and facsimile machines, taking into consideration various conditions such as frequency of use and equipment space for each department (department). There is.

However, with such a large number of installed equipment groups, there are the following problems.

For example, if the equipment installed in a certain department is in use, and if there is unused equipment among the equipment installed in another department, it is necessary to improve the usage efficiency of the entire equipment group. In other words, it is desirable to use unused equipment, but in the past, it was not possible to know the operating status of equipment installed in other departments, so if you wanted to do this, you would have to go directly to the other department or call in advance. There is the hassle of having to inquire about the availability of other departments' equipment before heading out, and even if you are dispatched after making inquiries, there is a possibility that equipment that was vacant while you were there may be used. There were other problems.

This invention has been made in view of the above-mentioned problems, and it is an object of the present invention to solve the above-mentioned problems by providing a device reservation system that can reserve the use of each device in a group of devices as described above. This is what we aim to do.

Supervisor Hereinafter, the configuration of the present invention will be explained based on one embodiment.

FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing one embodiment of the present invention.

In the same figure, devices such as copying machines or facsimile machines are
The KNs are installed in different departments and are capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from each other.

These device groups 1 to KN include a reservation key means RK, a state detection means SS, a first display control means DC, a first display section, an input key means IK, and a second A display control means DDC and a second display section DD (in the figure, 1 to N indicating the identification number of the device are attached to each code from RK to DD for each device) are provided, and a reservation according to the present invention is made. ,
We are building a system.

- The reservation key means RK is operated when making a reservation for use of each device in the device group from 1 to KN.

The state detection means SS detects whether each of the devices Kl-KN is in operation.

The first display control means DC displays identification information such as the installation location for each device 1 to KN and the detection result of the state detection means SS on the first display section when the reservation key means RK is operated.

The input key means IK is operated when inputting identification information of an unused device to be reserved.

The second display control means DDC displays on the second display section DD that the device is reserved when the identification information of the device is input using the input key means IK.

If the system is configured in this way, for example, if a device user goes to 3 on the device and tries to use 3 on the device, and 3 is in use on the device, first the 3 is placed on the device.
2. Operate the reservation key means RK3 provided in the.

Then, the first display control means DC3 controls the first display section D3.
In order to display the identification information such as the installation location of each device Kl-KN and the detection results of the status details S81 to SSN,
The device user looks at this first display section D3 and searches for an unused device, and if there is an unused device, operates the input key means IK3 to input the identification information of the unused device, thereby identifying the unused device. Make a reservation for the equipment to be used.

In this way, the second display control means DDC:
3 displays on the second display section DD3 that the unused device is reserved.

Note that the first or second display section of the reserved device will display "Reserved".

In this way, it is possible to check whether or not other devices are operating (used) in units of 1 to KN for each device, and to make reservations for their use. Priority usage rights can be securely secured, thereby improving the usage efficiency of the equipment group 1 to KN as a whole.

Hereinafter, more specific embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2 and subsequent figures.

FIG. 2 is a diagram of the connection mechanism of a group of copying machines (electrophotographic copying machines).

In the figure, copying machines 1 to 10 are a group of copying machines installed on each floor from the 1st floor (IF) to the 10th floor (IOF) of the corporate building of Company R, and each one has a registration number for identification. No,
1 to N0.10 are assigned.

Note that although the illustration of copying machines 4 to 8 is omitted in the figure, registration numbers N004 to No. 8 are given to these copying machines 4 to 8, respectively.

It is assumed that these copying machines 1 to 10 are configured in a network so that serial data can be transferred between them, and each of them is equipped with a reservation system function according to the present invention.

Next, the structure of the mechanical parts of the copying machines 1 to 10 will be explained with reference to FIG.

Each of the copying machines 1 to 10 has an automatic document feeder (rAD).
11 and a copying machine main body 12.

The ADF device 11 includes a transport section 1!1. Paper feeding section 14° Original setting section 15. and a document ejecting section 16, and each time a document is manually set one by one in the document setting section 15, the set document is automatically conveyed onto the contact glass 17, and a mode in which the document set in the document setting section 15 is automatically conveyed onto the contact glass 17. multiple pieces,
Documents can be used in two modes: a mode in which documents are automatically conveyed one by one onto the contact glass 17, and a mode in which the ADF device 11 itself is used as a pressure plate.

The copying machine main body 12 has a contact glass 17. halogen(
Exposure) An exposure optical system consisting of an illumination unit 18 that includes a lamp 18a and a first mirror 18b and reciprocates in the direction of the arrow along the lower surface of the contact glass 17, second to fourth mirrors 19a to 19c, and a through lens 20; body (selenium photoconductor) drum 21. Chargers 22 arranged along its periphery. Eraser (erase lamp) 23° development unit 24. Pre-transfer charger (PTC) 25,
Transfer charger 269 Separation charger 27° Separation claw 28
．． Pre-cleaning charger (pcc) 29, cleaning unit 30. and static elimination lamp 311 double-sided tray 3
2. First tray 33. Second tray 34. Paper feed roller unit 35a~! 15e.

Vertical conveyance section 36. Registration roller '57. Transport belt! 1
8. Fixing section 3 days 2 reversing section 40. and a copy receiver 41, etc.

Note that a power supply unit, various drive motors, drive force transmission mechanisms, various sensors, a control unit, etc. are not illustrated.

The basic operation of this copying machine is as follows.

That is, the photosensitive drum 21 is then rotated in the direction of the arrow in response to a copy command, etc., but the drum rotation is not performed so that residual toner adhering to the drum and uneven potential on the drum do not reach the charging charger 22 and the developing unit 24. Eraser 23 before. Pre-transfer charger 25. Transfer charger 261
Separate charger 27. Cleaning unit 30. and drives the static elimination lamp 31 and the like.

Cleaning unit! 10 is designed to operate under the condition that the power of the copying machine is turned on, so that the drum surface potential after passing through the static elimination lamp 31 remains Ov even after a jam occurs.

Note that the tip of the latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 21 is a cleaning device! This is the part after the position passing through 10.

When the photosensitive drum 21 is driven by a main motor (not shown) and rotates to a fixed position, in synchronization with the rotation, the document that has been plated on the contact glass 17 is illuminated by a halogen lamp 18a and a first mirror 18b. It is scanned by the unit (scanning system) 18, and the reflected light image is transmitted to the first mirror 18a, the second mirror 19a, and the third mirror 19.
b.

Through lens 20. The image is then formed on the photosensitive drum 21 via the fourth mirror 19c.

After the photosensitive drum 21 is charged by a charger 22, an eraser 23 irradiates unnecessary parts with light to create an image frame suitable for the transfer paper or projected image. A latent image is formed by the above-mentioned reflected light image that is incident on the image via the exposure optical system.

At this time, it goes without saying that the rotational speed of the photosensitive drum 21 and the scanning speed of the illumination unit 18 are made to match in order to obtain an image (latent image) that is the same size as the original.

The electrostatic latent image on the photosensitive drum 21 is developed (visible) as a toner image by the developing unit 24, and the image density is adjusted by the potential applied by the developing unit 24 at this time.

The transfer paper in the first tray 33 or the second tray '54 is first fed by the paper feed roller unit 35a or 35b to a point where a paper detector (not shown) is activated.

Next, at the predetermined paper feeding timing, the paper feeding roller unit 3
5a or 35b, the transfer paper of the required size is sent through the vertical conveyance section 36 to the registration roller 37 that has been stopped in advance, and the registration roller is moved at the timing when the leading edge of the toner image on the photosensitive drum 21 and the leading edge of the transfer paper match. 37 is driven.

The transfer paper is transferred to the photosensitive drum 21 by the registration roller 37.
When the toner image on the photosensitive drum 21 is transferred to the transfer paper by the transfer charger 26, the toner image is transferred to the transfer paper.

The surface of the photoreceptor drum 21 is very smooth and the adhesion of the transfer paper is strong, but the transfer paper is separated from the photoreceptor drum 21 by the action of the separation charger 27 and the separation claw 28, and then fixed by the conveyor belt 68. It will be sent on the 3rd day.

Then, in the fixing section 3, the image is fixed while applying heat and pressure to the toner and welding it, and then the transfer paper on which the image is formed is discharged to the copy receiver 41 via the reversing section 40.

After the transfer, a small amount of toner remains on the surface of the photoreceptor drum 21, so after a pre-cleaning charger for two days, the cleaning unit 30 cleans the surface with a brush and a blade, and the primary static elimination lamp 31 cleans the surface. Keep the potential constant.

Note that for double-sided copying, after an image is formed on one side, the image side is stacked on the double-sided tray 32 via the reversing unit 40, and the three sheets are fed at a predetermined paper feeding timing. This is done by feeding paper using the 55C.

Sequence control of the above-mentioned copying process is performed by a control section described later mainly based on pulses generated in synchronization with the rotation of the photoreceptor drum 21 or reference pulses for driving the photoreceptor drum 21. .

Next, the configuration of the operation sections of the copying machines 1 to 10 will be explained with reference to FIG.

In FIG. 4, the operation section 42 is provided on the top surface of each of the copying machines 1 to 10, and can be roughly divided into a CRT display section 43 using a cathode ray tube (CRT) as a graphic display, and a key operation section 44.

The CRT display section 43 performs the functions of the first and second display sections according to the present invention, and normally displays the screen as the first to third display sections.
The display specifications are such that the information is displayed in two display areas.

First, in the first display area, there are displays such as ``Please wait'' and ``Ready to copy,'' which are displayed based on the rise of the fixing heater on the 3rd day of the fixing section in Figure 3, as well as the set number of copies to notify the number of copies. (The number of initialized sheets is "l"). The paper size stored in the second tray 3!1, 34, copy density, etc. are displayed.

The second display area is a graphic display area, and displays explanations of the following various modes included in the copying machines 1 to 10 during the period from power-on until the temperature of the fixing heater rises to the set temperature.

(1) Explanation display regarding magnification This displays the relationship between the document and paper size corresponding to each of the six copy magnifications (100%, reduction/enlargement keys 45 specified by the key operation section 44, and the size of the text, document, and paper). The explanation is displayed using graphics.

(2) Explanatory display regarding double-sided l mode This is to explain and display the copy mode using the duplex l key 46, which is operated when making a double-sided copy from a single-sided original, using a graphic display showing the relationship between a single-sided original and a double-sided copy.

(3) Explanation display regarding double-sided 2 mode This is a special code for making double-sided copies from double-sided originals.The copy mode is operated by the double-sided 2 key 47.

The explanation is displayed using a graphic display showing the relationship between a double-sided original and a double-sided copy.

(4) Explanatory display regarding the composite copy mode This shows the copy mode by the composite key 48, which is operated when making copies of two originals on one sheet of transfer paper (copy paper), and the relationship between the original and the paper to be copied. This is explained using a graphical display.

(5) Explanatory display regarding interrupt mode This is a graphic display that explains the copy mode using the interrupt key operated when the copying machine is on standby or during copying.

The graphic display is, for example, a display of marks and functions that are displayed when an interrupt is set by pressing the interrupt key an odd number of times and one interrupt is set.

(6) Explanatory display regarding sort and stack modes This sorts copy modes using the sort key 50 and stack key 51, which are valid when the copying machines 1 to 10 are equipped with a sorter.

The explanation is displayed using a graphic display showing the stack paper ejection mode and collation mode.

(7) Explanatory display regarding reverse ejection mode This explains the copy mode using the reversal key 52, which is operated when reversing and ejecting paper, using a graphic display showing the relationship between the document setting order and the sheets.

(8) Explanation display regarding the binding margin adjustment mode This shows the copy mode using the binding representative and back keys 53 and 54, which are operated when specifying the binding area of the paper, on the right side, left side, and front side of the paper.

The explanation is displayed using a graphic display showing the setting specifications and the movement of the binding width on the back side.

(9) Explanation display regarding paper feed tray selection This is a graphical display explaining the key operation of the paper feed selection key 55, which is operated when selecting either the first or second tray 33 or 34 in FIG. .

(19) Explanation display regarding image density setting mode This is the dark key 56 which is operated to control the amount of toner transferred to the paper and adjust the intensity of the copy density. Light (
This is a graphic display that explains how the copy density changes depending on the write key 57.

(11) Explanatory display regarding the number of copies to be set This graphically displays an explanation of how to set the number of copies and copies using the numeric keypad 58 and a mode in which changing the set number of copies is prohibited.

As described above, the guidance for various modes is displayed by the various operation keys related to the copy mode in the key operation unit 44 on the CRT display in sequence by switching displays at regular intervals by using the waiting time after the power is turned on until the fixing heater starts up. 43 in the second display area, thereby explaining to the user the mode of use of the machine before starting copying, thereby improving operability and reducing the number of copy errors due to operational errors. There is.

Further, the contents displayed in the second display area during the start-up period of the fixing heater include the following in addition to those related to the mode operation described above.

First, regarding replenishment, (1) Replenishment of paper in the paper feed tray.This is shown in step 1 in Figure 3. What kind of paper out mark is there to indicate that no transfer paper is set in the second trays 33 and 34? What is the mark that indicates the amount of transfer paper remaining? In addition, when the paper out mark is displayed, the display format of the self-illuminated lamp on the paper feed selection key 55, and specific explanations such as the paper setting direction are displayed.

(2) Toner replenishment This is what the toner end mark looks like, which indicates that a toner concentration detection board (not shown) has detected that the toner concentration is low, and how to replenish the toner to cancel it. It shows how to do it and a detailed explanation.

Next, we will deal with jam abnormalities (1) Jam handling in the copying machine main body 12 This corresponds to how the jam occurrence position is displayed to notify the jam location when the main body jams, and how the jam occurrence position is displayed. It displays the processing method used.

(2) Jam handling on the sorter side This refers to how the jam occurrence position is displayed when a jam occurs on the sorter side when a sorter is equipped, and how the cover, etc. that is operated on the sorter side when a jam occurs. The operation method is displayed.

(3) Jam handling on the ADF device 11 side When a jam occurs in the ADF device 11, it is difficult to deal with the document and the paper that is wasted due to the jam. For example, an explanation about displaying the same □ number on the original and paper inside and outside the machine, and an explanation about the number of returned originals are displayed.

In addition, abnormality display marks for various abnormalities that occur in the copying machines 1 to 10 and explanations of how to deal with them are displayed to minimize downtime of the copying machines.

Further, the second display area of the CRT control section 43 may display the following display using the machine waiting time.

In other words, a sensor is installed to detect the operating temperature of the machine, which determines the copy quality, and the usable state of the machine is determined based on the sensor detection results, and the temperature and/or humidity are set at the set value. If the deviation is larger than that, the display may be changed from the above-mentioned explanation of the operation mode or replenishment to an explanation that the machine cannot be used because the operating environment of the machine is poor.

In the third display area of the CR7 display section 43, various characters related to the copying machines 1 to 10 are displayed.

Note that in the second display area of the C, RT display section 43.

During copying, various displays indicating the status of the copiers 1 to 10 are displayed, and other 1. Including the third display area, displays related to the present invention and characters of touch panel keys, etc., which will be described later, are displayed.

Next, keys other than the various mode keys on the key operation section 44 will be specifically explained.

The numeric keypad 58 mentioned above is first used to set the desired number of copies, and the numeric keypad 58 can be used to set the desired number of copies. Note that this numeric keypad 58 is used to press the first "0" during copying and when the number of sheets set is other than "1".
” key and the third digit key press are invalid.

The numeric keypad 58 is used in combination with a timer key 62, which will be described later, to set a desired day of the week, a desired power on/off time for the copying machine, and the like.

Furthermore, this numeric keypad 58 is used in combination with a guidance key 63, which will be described later, to select a mode when requesting the display of each operation mode and guidance described above.

Furthermore, this numeric keypad 58 is used in combination with a serviceman key 61 to be described later to input a selection code for displaying necessary information on the CR7 display section 43 by the serviceman.

The numeric keypad 58 also functions as an input key means, and is used when setting a user's password to be sent to a reserved copying machine in combination with a reservation key 66 and a transfer key 67, which will be described later. Used when entering the registration number (identification information).

The clear/stop key 59 is used to return the set number to rOJ and stop copying.

The print start key 60 is enabled only when a copy operation is enabled, and is used when starting a copy operation.

When the print start key 60 is pressed, execution of the set copy mode is started, but while the copy mode is being executed, the display content of the CR7 display section 43 is a display indicating the relationship between the original and the paper. automatically switches to.

The serviceman key 61 is used to display copying machine information required by a serviceman on the CR7 display section 43, and when used, it is selected and displayed in combination with the numeric keypad 58 as described above.

Note that the information required by the service person is, for example, information indicating the PM timing of PM (prepentive maintenance) parts in the copying machine.

In addition, the combination of the serviceman key 61 and the numeric keypad 58 can display failure conditions and repair methods using the self-diagnosis functions of each of the copiers 1 to 10, as well as various types of logged copy machine data. It is also possible to display (print out if a printer is connected to an interface not shown), etc.

The timer key 62 is used in combination with the numeric keypad 58 to set the on/off time for the power supply to the copying machine, etc., as described above, to avoid unnecessary power supply to the copying machine or unnecessary power supply to the copying machine. We are trying to reduce waiting time.

The guidance key 63 is used to display an explanation regarding the setting mode on the CR7 display section 43 after setting each mode of the copying machine using the various mode keys described above.

The user set key 64 is used to set each user (
This key is used when inputting information (data) required by the machine user. When pressed, the display on the CRT display section 4!1 changes to the character of the transparent touch panel key (not shown) attached to it. The display automatically switches to the key display, and the user can input kana characters by specifying the desired characters with his or her fingertips.

When the user inputs data, when the user specifies the address of the nonvolatile memory that stores information to be displayed on the CR7 display section 43 using the numeric keypad 58, the user data input using the touch panel keys and the numeric keypad 58 is stored at that address.

Note that the address assigned to the nonvolatile memory and the input data using the touch panel keys and numeric keypad 58 are as follows:
It is assumed that the input information is displayed on the CR7 display section 43, and that when the number of input information exceeds the memory limit, a message to that effect is also displayed on the CR7 display section 43 to prevent the nonvolatile memory from being overloaded.

The user recall key 65 is a key used to display on the CR7 display section 43 the contents of the table of contents or the contents themselves of the user data stored in the nonvolatile memory, and by pressing this key, the contents of the table of contents or information of the registered information are displayed. That information is displayed on the CR7 display section 43.

The reservation key 66 displays the operating status of the copying machines 1 to 10 connected to the network via a local line on the CR7 display section 43 of the copying machine operated by the reservation key 66, and also displays the operating status of the copying machines 1 to 10 that are not in use (not in operation). Used when making reservations.

Note that the details will be described later.

The transfer key 67 is used when transferring data such as a user's PIN code, which will be described later, from any of the copiers 1 to 10 to other machines. When the transfer key 67 is pressed, an acoustic coupler (not shown) is activated. The line of the other party's copying machine is opened via the , and the data is transferred. Note that the details will also be described later.

Next, the configuration of the control section of the copies Wk1 to Wk10 will be explained with reference to FIG.

In the figure, 68 is a central processing bag (vit<cPU) which controls the entire copying machine including the control related to this invention, and sequentially executes programs stored in advance in a control ROM 69 using a control RAM 70. By doing so, it processes the sensor outputs of various sensors provided in each part of the copying machine that are input through the buffer 71 and I10 controller 72, and also controls the driving of various loads in each part of the copying machine via the I10 controller 72 and driver 73. do.

The CRT display system controlled by this CPU 68 is controlled by the CRT controller 74. Clock generation circuit 75
．． Timing controller 76° Graphic frame memory 77, Character pattern memory 78. It consists of a refresh memory 7, a video control circuit 80, etc., and controls the display of a cathode ray tube (CRT) 81 having a CR7 display section 43 shown in FIG.

The CRT controller 74 controls writing/reading addressing of the refresh memory 79 , controls the output of a blanking signal to the video control circuit 80 , display timing signals, horizontal and vertical synchronizing signals, etc., and outputs timing signals to the timing controller 76 . Control etc.

Clock generation circuit 75 outputs a reference clock signal to CRT controller 74.

The timing controller 76 is the CRT controller 7
A parallel/serial conversion timing signal, a raster address signal, etc. are formed based on the timing signal from 4 and output to the video control circuit 80.

The graphic frame memory 77 stores data necessary for the various graphic displays described above.

The character pattern memory (character generator) 78 stores all characters (characters) to be displayed on the CR1 display section 43.
data is stored.

The refresh memory 7th sequentially stores display data for one screen of the CRT 81.

A video control circuit (composite circuit) 80.

The CR1 display section 4' of the CRT 81 displays a display based on one screen worth of display data stored on the 7th day of the refresh memory.
5, the video signal, horizontal synchronization signal, vertical synchronization signal, and luminance signal are output to the CRT 81.

The key/display controller 82 controls a key group 83 consisting of various keys 45 to 67 in the key operation section 44 shown in FIG.

The key/display controller 84 controls the operational touch panel keys 85 whose key names are specified by the kana display as shown in the figure displayed on the CR1 display section 43.

The serial transmission controller (USRT) 8G is for copying machines 1 to
This is for performing data transfer according to the present invention between 10 to 10 units according to synchronous serial transfer specifications.

The user non-volatile RAM 87 is a memory that stores information required by the user, as described above, and is backed up by a rechargeable battery 88.

The timer circuit 8 is used to measure the on/off time of power supply, the usage time of the copying machine, etc., and is also backed up by a battery 88.

Then, the CPU in the control unit configured as above
In addition to executing the sequence program for the copying process stored in the control ROM 6 as described above, the es also executes the 1st. It functions as a second display control means.

Although not shown, the CPU 68 determines whether or not the copying machine is in operation by, for example, detecting whether the power is turned on or off or the print start key 60 is turned on or off. It also functions as a detection means.

Hereinafter, the method of making reservations between the copying machines 1 to 10 will be specifically explained with reference to the flowcharts shown in FIG. 6 and subsequent figures.

In the following description, a case will be described in which, for example, the copying machine 10 is in operation and the copying machine 10 is used to reserve the use of another machine.

Therefore, the programs shown in the processing flows in FIGS. 6, 8, 10, and 11 are programs executed by the cpUEi8 in the control unit of the copying machine 10.

Note that each of the above is a processing flow that mainly emphasizes transmission (data transfer), and the processing flows for other copiers 1 to S have the same basic concept, except that the sending and receiving parties are different. be.

First, if the copying machine 10 installed on the 10th floor is in operation, a user who wants to use the machine can use the copying machine 10 on another floor.
The key operation unit 4 of the copying machine 10 to know the operating status of ~9.
The reservation key 66 in step 4 is pressed.

When this reservation key 66 is pressed, the key RA in the key/display controller 82 in the control section shown in FIG.
A key code indicating that the reservation key has been pressed is set in M. .

As shown in the processing flow diagram of FIG. 6, the CPU 68 checks whether or not the transfer flag (FLG) is set, and if the transfer flag (FLG) is set, the CPU 68 immediately starts the control section of the copying machines 1 to 1. The process moves on to outputting a transmission request to send data indicating the operating status of each F'
If LG is not set, the key code set in the key RAM in the key/disable controller 82 is discriminated to check whether the set key code is a key code for a reserved key.

If the key code is not for a reserved key, the process returns to the main routine (not shown), and if the key code is for a reserved key, the process proceeds to the process of outputting the above-mentioned transmission request.

For example, as shown in FIG. 7, data transmission and reception between copying machine control units is performed by the transmitting side first using EN, which indicates the start of data transfer.
Q (Inquiry) Sends the status code, then interposes the data to be sent with the STX status code at the data start and the EXT status code at the data end. When the receiving side receives the ENQ status code, it prepares to process the transmitted data, and when it completes reading the transmitted data, it transmits an ACK status code indicating completion of reading to the transmitting side.

Therefore, the CPU 68 receives A from each control section of the copying machines 1 to S.
While checking whether or not the CK code has been transmitted, the status code data is transferred according to the above transmission specifications in order to cause the copying machine 1 to sequentially transmit status code data indicating the operating status of each machine. Then, return to the main routine.

In this way, the copying machine 10 with registration number No. 10 first sends a transmission request to the copying machine 1 with registration number No. L, and the control unit of the copying machine 1 receives an ACK code indicating that the transmission request has been read. When the registration number is received, the transmission request is sent to the next copying machine 2 with the registration number N082.
, 9 are sent in order to the copying machines 9.

As a result of such processing, each CPU 68 of the control unit of the copying machines 1 to 9 sends a status code indicating the determination result of whether each machine is in operation or not, according to the transmission specifications shown in FIG. It becomes like this.

The CPU 68 in the control unit of the copying machine 10, when proceeding from the processing flow shown in FIG. 6 to the processing flow shown in FIG. Check the status codes in order from copying machine 1, and if the status code indicates that the machine is in operation, set the in-use flag (FLG) determined for each copying machine, and set the status code to indicate that the machine is in operation. If so, a standby flag (FLG) determined for each copying machine is set.

After the CPU 68 completes reading the transmitted code data indicating whether or not the machine is in operation and completes the above-mentioned check, it transmits an ACK code to each copying machine, and then
The process moves on to displaying the operating status of each copying machine.

The flag check and setting process for the status determination completion flag (FLG) for each registration number in FIG. 8 is as follows:
This is a process for sequentially performing each of the above processes starting from the copying machine 1.

Display processing of the operating status of each copying machine is performed in the following manner.

That is, first, the graphic frame memory 7 in FIG.
For example, the graphic data for displaying the copying machine mark (icon) 90 shown in FIG.

Next, the in-use FLG and standby FL determined for each copying machine.
G flag is checked, and if the in-use FLG is set, the character address of the character pattern memory 78 necessary to display the phrase "In operation" is set, and the standby FLG is set. If so, set the character address of the character pattern memory 8 necessary to display the phrase “not used” as a character, and copy machines 1 to 9.
IF ~ indicating each installation location (floor) as identification information of
Also set the character address for 9F.

Then, the CPU 68 performs a CRT display process to control the CRT controller 74 shown in FIG. To,
The display content that had been displayed up to that point has been switched to a display that shows the operating status of each copying machine as shown in Figure S.

In addition, in Fig. 9, there are four copying machines 1 to 4 from IF to 4F.
However, only whether or not 4 is in operation is displayed.

Regarding the remaining copying machines 5-S on the 5th to 9th floors, for example, after the display of copying machines 1-4 is displayed for a certain period of time.

Again, the display is made for a certain period of time, and each display is alternately repeated.

Of course, they can also be displayed all at once.

In addition, in Figure 9, "Five more minutes will be used,""Two more minutes will be used," and "You can copy" are also displayed, but F is not used for "You can copy." Similar to J, it can be handled by simply changing the display content, and regarding "How many minutes left to use" can be done by copying machine 1~
If the user has set the usage time on the S side, the usage time is transmitted to the copying machine 10, or if such a setting has not been made, for example, the standard usage time is transmitted to the copying machine 10 side. You can respond by doing this.

Furthermore, when making a reservation from the copying machine 10, if any of the copying machines 1 to S has already been reserved.

The operating status of the machine may be indicated by a message "Reservation in progress".

A user who is trying to reserve the use of other copy machines 1 to S using the copy machine 10 looks at the content displayed on the CRT display section 43 and selects the nearest unused copy machine. Select the copying machine on the floor (hereinafter referred to as the copying machine on the 8th floor, for example),
The selected registration number N018 of the copying machine 8, for example, and the user's own personal identification code for identifying the person making the reservation are sent to the control section of the copying machine 8 to reserve the use of the copying machine 8.

Perform the following operations.

First, the r8J key of the numeric keypad 58 in the key operation section 44 is pressed to input the registration number N008, and then the transfer key 67 is pressed.

Next, hit the numeric keypad 58 again to enter the PIN code (for example, 4).
After inputting the digit number rll;L2J), the transfer key 67 is pressed again.

When such an operation is performed, the CPU 68 of the copying machine 10
**Copy 'a 8 Control unit ni r 1122 J Send the null password using the transmission specifications shown in FIG. 7 described above.

That is, when the CPU G8 of the copying machine 10 proceeds from the processing in the processing flow of FIG. 8 to the processing in the processing flow of FIG.
When one of "1" to "9" is input by pressing the numeric keypad 58, a reservation flag (FLG) of the registration number corresponding to the input value is first set.

As you can see from the process flow in the same figure, initially pressing the "0" key on keys other than the numeric keypad 58 and the numeric keypad 58 is disabled, and "1" to "9"
The pressing of the transfer key 67 becomes effective only when one of the following is input and the transfer flag (FLG) is set.

When the transfer key 67 is not pressed for the first time, a transfer key flag (FLG) is set and the process moves to the password code input process.

Then, each time one of the keys 10" to "9" on the numeric keypad 58 is pressed, the numeric value is stored as a password in a predetermined address of the control RAM 70 in FIG. 5, and when the numeric keypad 58 is pressed four times, You can create a pin code of rl122J.

When the transfer key 67 is pressed again after completing the PIN code input process, the CPU of the copying machine 10
In the processing flow shown in FIG. 11, first, it is checked which registration number reservation FLG is set, and the destination of the PIN code is recognized based on the check result.

Then, the PIN code "1122" stored in the control RAM 70 is sent to the control unit of the recognized destination, for example, the copying machine 8 with registration number No. 8 in this case.
Transmit using the transmission specifications shown in the figure.

In addition, the PIN code transfer flag (FLG) in Figure 11
flag check and set processing.

This is a process to bypass the above-mentioned transfer process when waiting for the reception of an ACK code after data transfer process. The receiver is attached, and the receiver is then processed so that it will no longer be able to operate unless the assigned pin code is entered using the numeric keypad 58, and the control section of the copying machine 11 is shown that the reservation has been accepted. Transfer the ACK code.

At this time, on the CRT display section 43 of the copying machine 8.

It would be better to display "Reserved".

After the CPU 68 of the copying machine 10 finishes transferring the PIN code, it waits for the ACK code to be sent from the destination copying machine 8, and when the ACK code is sent, it prints the phrase "1 reservation has been made." Sets character addresses in character pattern memory 78 necessary for display.

Then, the cpU 68 controls the CRT controller shown in FIG. 5 so that the CRT display unit 43 displays the display shown in FIG. 74, thereby informing the reservation person present at the copying machine 10 that the copying machine 8 has been reserved, and then using the various determination flags (FLGs) described above.
is reset and returns to the main routine (not shown).

In this way, for example 10. F's operating copying machine 10
It is possible to reserve the use of the copying machine 8 that is on standby on the 68th floor, which not only eliminates the inconvenience of the conventional method, but also ensures priority use of unused copying machines, and makes it possible to reserve the use of copying machines 1 to 1.
You can measure the efficient operation of 0.

In the above-mentioned specific example, a case where one copying machine is installed on each floor of a company building with a 100m building is explained as an example, but it is also possible to install multiple copying machines on a large floor. In such a case, when displaying the operating status of these machines on the CRT display section 43, a graphic layout map showing the installation position of each machine on the floor can also be used as identification information for each machine.

In addition, in the above specific example, rlFJ to rlOFJ
In the above example, the identification information for displaying each machine is described above, and the registration number No. 1 to No.

Of course, 10 may be used as the identification information.

Further, in the above embodiments, each of the means according to the present invention is provided in each copying machine, but the present invention is not limited to this, and for example, only the state detection means is provided in each copying machine. It is also possible to construct a system in which each of the latter means is an independent reservation device, and to construct a network between this reservation device and each copying machine so that the reservation device can reserve the use of an unused copying machine.

Furthermore, although the above specific embodiment has been explained using a copying machine as an example, it may also be used as a reservation system for each device in the same group of devices such as a facsimile, a word processor, or a work station for various information processing. The present invention can also be applied to a reservation system for a heterogeneous device group having a plurality of types of devices.

In addition, in the above specific embodiment, an example was described in which a reservation for the use of an unused copying machine was made by sending a PIN code to the other party specified by the registration number. Of course, it is also possible to make a usage reservation using only the registration number as information.

In addition, in the above specific embodiment, the first. The explanation has been given by taking as an example the CRT display section 43 of one C, RT81 that functions as the second display section, but the display section of each display is
．． Of course, it may be appropriated for the second display section.

As mentioned above, in the equipment reservation system according to the present invention, it is possible to easily and reliably reserve the use of unused equipment in a equipment group, thereby making it possible to efficiently operate a single equipment group. .

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an embodiment of the present invention. 2 is a connection configuration diagram of a group of copying machines, and FIG. 3 is a configuration diagram of mechanical parts of copying machines 1 to 10 in FIG. 2. FIG. 4 is a configuration diagram of the operating section. FIG. 5 is a block diagram of the control section, and FIGS. 6, 8, 10, and 11 respectively show the control section of the copying machine 10.
FIG. 3 is a processing flow diagram of a program executed by PtJ68. FIG. 7 is a schematic diagram showing specifications for transmitting and receiving data between copying machine control units. FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram showing a display example of the CRT display section 46 of the copying machine 10, and FIG. 12 is a schematic diagram showing a different display example. ...State detection means DCI to DCN...First display control means D1-DN
...First display section IKI-IKN...Input key means DDC1-DDCN...Second display control means DDI-
DDN...Second display section 1-10...Copy machine 43...CRT display section 6
8...Central processing unit (CPU) 6th...Control ROM 70...Control RAM
72...I10 controller 74...CRT controller 77...Graphic frame memory 78...Character pattern memory 7th...Refresh memory

Claims (1)

[Scope of Claims] 1. A system for making reservations for use of each device in a group of devices such as a copying machine or a facsimile machine, which includes the following (a) to (a).
A device reservation system characterized by being configured by each of the means of (e). (b) Reservation key means operated when making a reservation for the use of each device in the device group (b) Status detection means for detecting whether each device in the device group is in operation (c) When the reservation key means is operated (d) input key means for inputting identification information of unused equipment to be reserved; (E) A second display control means 2 that displays on a second display section that the device is reserved when the identification information of the device is input by the input key means; (A) to (E) above; 2. The device reservation system according to claim 1, wherein each means is provided for each device in the device group that is capable of transmitting and receiving data to and from each other. 3. The device reservation system according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the first and second display units are one graphic display. 4. According to any one of claims 1 to 3, the identification information for each device in the device group displayed on the first display section is information indicating the installation location of each device. equipment reservation system.