KR0145761B1 - Special document discriminating and managing system for image forming device having a special document identifying function - Google Patents

Abstract

The present invention relates to a special document discrimination apparatus for adding a counterfeit prevention function such as a bill in a digital copying machine, and an image forming apparatus management system having a special document discrimination function.

In the special document discrimination apparatus, a ROM that stores data for discriminating a special document such as a bill is detachably attached to the control board. The data used for discrimination can be learned by the data by the test pattern input from the image forming apparatus, and may be input from the outside through a communication line. The image forming apparatus management system is constituted by a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus and a communication line. Either the image forming apparatus or the management apparatus has a special document discrimination function. From the image forming apparatus, incident information is transmitted to the management apparatus together with the discrimination result information or the detection data. In addition, information serving as a criterion of determination from the management apparatus may be transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

Description

Image forming device management system with special document discrimination device and special document discrimination function

1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with a first embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with another embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with another embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

4 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a management system of a PPC (copy machine) according to the present invention.

5 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the communication control unit shown in FIG.

6 is a block diagram showing the internal configuration of the management apparatus shown in FIG.

7 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the main CPU excluding the image processing section of the PPC.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an IPU CPU, an IPU, and peripheral parts thereof connected in series with the main CPU shown in FIG.

Fig. 9 is a block diagram showing an embodiment having a circuit for preventing forgery and a decision circuit for determining whether or not a forgery is applied.

FIG. 10 is a block diagram showing an embodiment having only a detection circuit that detects a pattern comparison result for detecting whether a forgery is applied together with an anti-counterfeiting circuit.

11A and 11B are timing charts showing operations of the IPU CPU, the main CPU and the management apparatus according to the embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention, and FIG. 11A is a case where the determination result is not forgery. Fig. 11B shows a case where the judgment result is forgery.

12A and 12B are timing charts showing operations of the IPU CPU, the main CPU, and the management apparatus according to the embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention. FIG. 12A is a timing chart showing the case where the determination result is not forged. Figure 12b shows a case in which the judgment result is forgery.

13A and 13B are timing charts showing operations of an IPU CPU, a main CPU, and a management apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention. FIG. 13A is a timing chart when the determination result is not forged. Shows the case where the judgment result is forgery

14A and 14B are timing charts showing operations of an IPU CPU, a main CPU, and a management apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention. FIG. 14A is a timing chart when the determination result is not forged. Shows the case where the judgment result is forgery

15A and 15B are timing charts showing operations of the IPU CPU, the main CPU, and the management apparatus according to the embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention. Shows the case where the judgment result is forgery

16A and 16B are timing charts showing operations of an IPU CPU, a main CPU, and a management apparatus in accordance with an embodiment of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention. FIG. 16A is a timing chart when the determination result is not forged. Shows the case that the judgment result is forgery

17 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

18 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

19 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming device management system according to the present invention.

20 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

21 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

22 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

23 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

24 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a specific pattern I section and a specific pattern II section for the detection circuit I and detection circuit II shown in FIG.

Fig. 26 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a part for performing data transmission to a management apparatus.

FIG. 27 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a part for performing data transmission to the management apparatus in the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

28 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

29 is a flowchart showing the operation of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

30 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the operation prohibition by remote operation can be released in the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an embodiment in which the image forming apparatus shown in FIG. 30 temporarily cancels the operation prohibition.

* Explanation of symbols for main parts of the drawings

101: scanner unit 102: image processing unit

103: printer unit 106: image memory

107: ROM 109: CPU

110: RAM 203: New Banknotes Learning Division

301: control board for banknote discrimination 303: communication control unit

401: Main CPU 403: A / D Converter

416: printer control unit 420: timer

503: color processing circuit 506: LD driving circuit

518: interface 601: determination circuit

608: detection circuit 701: buffer (BUFFER)

2202: NVRAM control unit 2203: FiFo memory

2301: data compression unit 2401: serial channel

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a special document discrimination apparatus for adding a counterfeit prevention function such as a bill in a digital copying machine and an image forming apparatus management system having a special document discrimination function.

In recent years, color copiers have become widespread to the public. In the color copying chain, the image forming technique and the image processing technique have been greatly improved, so that even a complicated bill can be successfully copied to the extent that it is difficult to distinguish from the real one. Therefore, in order to prevent counterfeiting of paper money by a color copying machine, a device has been developed to discriminate special documents such as paper money and to prohibit copying in the case of special paper.

An apparatus for discriminating special manuscripts is described, for example, in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-83571. The apparatus described in this document is to discriminate a special document using a pattern matching method. That is, the image pattern input to the apparatus is compared with the pattern data registered in the apparatus in advance, and it is determined whether the input image matches the pattern. The pattern registered here is a pattern of an original (e.g., a bill) forbidden to copy.

In addition, in the apparatus for performing the above-described determination, there is an image processing apparatus described in Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2-210591. In the apparatus, first, a rough position on which a document (banknote) is placed is detected by detecting a silver portion of a document (in this case, a bill) to be discriminated. Next, the exact position and angle of a banknote are detected by detecting the position of the four corners of a banknote.

Then, pattern matching is performed based on the image data of the corresponding banknote, the registered pattern data, and the like, and the similarity is obtained to determine whether or not the manuscript is a specific copy support bank.

In the conventional apparatus as described above, when a new banknote is issued, the pattern data of the newly issued banknote must be added to the pattern of the registered banknote. Therefore, it is necessary to replace the bill discrimination apparatus itself or to replace the control board in the bill discrimination apparatus. As a result, when a new bill is issued, it is necessary for the serviceman to go to each copier installation place to replace the discriminating device or to replace the control board. This work by the serviceman requires a lot of man power and time. Therefore, when a new banknote is issued, there is a problem that a large maintenance cost is required to maintain the discriminating device.

In addition, since the above-described conventional image forming apparatus is a stand alone type, when the bills and the like are copied, it is necessary to stay in one place to prohibit copying or to manage the counterfeit information to prevent counterfeiting in advance. It is very difficult to facilitate tracking operations.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has a general purpose to provide a novel useful special document discrimination apparatus and an image forming apparatus management system having a special document discrimination function that solve the above problems.

A detailed object of the present invention is to provide a special manuscript discriminating device to which discrimination information can be simply added.

Another object of the present invention is to provide a management system capable of efficiently preventing forgery by copying a special document by remotely managing an image forming apparatus using a communication line.

In order to achieve the above object, the special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention is connected to an image forming apparatus, and the special document discriminating apparatus for discriminating whether or not image data input from the image forming apparatus corresponds to a predetermined special document. A storage means detachably attached to the control panel and storing discrimination information for discriminating whether the input image data corresponds to a special document, and whether the input image data corresponds to a special document. Judging means for judging based on the discrimination information from the means, and outputting the result to the outside, and an operation prohibiting means for outputting a signal prohibiting the operation of the image forming apparatus when the storing means is not attached to the control board. And the discrimination information can be changed by exchanging the storing means.

According to the above-described configuration, it is not necessary to replace the device itself or the board because new special document identification information can be easily added and changed only by replacing the storing means.

Further, the special document discrimination apparatus of the present invention is a special document discrimination apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus and discriminating whether or not the image data input from the image forming apparatus corresponds to a predetermined number of pounding documents, and the input image data is special. A storage means for storing discrimination information for discriminating whether or not the document corresponds to the original, and whether the input image data corresponds to a special document is judged on the basis of the discrimination information from the storage means, and the determination result is output to the outside. Judging means. When a predetermined signal is inputted, it has a configuration including new banknote learning means or the like which extracts the identification information of the special document from the image data input from the image forming apparatus and inputs it to the storing means.

According to the above configuration, by input from the image forming apparatus, it is possible to input the discriminating data of the special document into the storing means, so that replacement of parts or the like is unnecessary when the discriminating information is changed. In this discrimination data input, a test pattern having the characteristics of a special document may be used.

Further, the special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention is a special document discrimination apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus and discriminating whether or not the image data input from the image forming apparatus corresponds to a predetermined special document, and the input image data Storage means for storing discrimination information for discriminating whether or not the document corresponds to a special document, and whether or not the input image data corresponds to the special document based on the discrimination information from the storing means. And a judging means for outputting the control information, and communication control means for receiving discrimination information from the outside via a communication line, and outputting the discrimination information to the storing means.

According to the above configuration, the discrimination information can be input to the storing means from the outside through the communication line and the communication means, thereby greatly reducing the time and effort required to change the discrimination information.

An image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system composed of an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located from the image forming apparatus. Detection means for detecting a predetermined special original feature relating to image data of the original, discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the original is a predetermined special original based on the detection result detected by the detection means, and special means by the discriminating means. At the time of discriminating whether the document is a predetermined special document, it has a configuration including transmission means for transmitting the discrimination result information to the external device.

According to the above arrangement, it is possible to intensively monitor illegal acts such as copying of special documents from a plurality of image forming apparatuses by a remotely located management apparatus. The discrimination result information may be efficiently managed by adding incidental information related to image formation such as image formation date and time, model number, image forming operation mode, and image forming operation history within a predetermined period. Further, the management apparatus may be configured to transmit an operation prohibition signal for prohibiting the operation of the image forming apparatus and a release signal for releasing the prohibition of the operation to the image forming apparatus based on the determination result information.

An image forming management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system composed of an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located from the image forming apparatus, and the management apparatus is predetermined. Has a means of discriminating special manuscripts. The image forming apparatus is provided with detecting means for detecting a characteristic of a predetermined special document with respect to the image data of the original, the detection result by the detecting means is sent to the management apparatus, and the discriminating means determines whether the document is a predetermined special document or not. The determination is made based on the detection result, and the determination result is transmitted to the image forming apparatus.

According to the above-described configuration, since the discriminating means is provided on the management apparatus side, there is no need to provide discriminating means in each image forming apparatus, thereby reducing the manufacturing cost. The management apparatus may be configured to transmit an operation prohibition signal for prohibiting the operation of the image forming apparatus and a release signal for releasing the operation prohibition to the image forming apparatus based on the determination result information.

The image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system composed of an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located in the image forming apparatus. The forming apparatus includes a detecting means for detecting a predetermined special original feature relating to image data of the original, a comparison between the detection result detected by the detecting means, and a predetermined threshold level value. Discriminating means for discriminating whether or not a predetermined special document is provided, and transmitting means for transmitting the result of the discrimination information to an external device when the discriminating means discriminates whether or not the special special document is a predetermined special document. The management apparatus is configured to have means for transmitting a signal for changing a threshold value to the image forming apparatus.

According to the above-described configuration, the determination of the special document is performed based on a predetermined threshold value, and the determination level is determined by the threshold value. Since the threshold value can be changed by the management apparatus, the determination level can be easily changed.

Further, the management apparatus may have a structure having means for transmitting an operation prohibition signal for prohibiting the operation of the image forming apparatus and a release signal for releasing the operation prohibition to the image forming apparatus based on the result information.

The image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located from the image forming apparatus. Detection means for detecting a characteristic of a predetermined special document with respect to image data of the original, and a comparison between the detection result detected by the detection means and a predetermined threshold value to determine whether the document is a predetermined special document or not. Means for inputting identification information of an operator operating the image apparatus, transmission means for transmitting the discrimination result information to an external device when discriminating whether the special document is a predetermined special document by the discriminating means; And means for adding member information, worker identification information, and the like related to the image formation to the discrimination result information.

According to the above configuration, it is possible to manage forgery copying for each user (per worker), and the follow-up investigation becomes easy when forgery copying or the like is executed. The management apparatus may be configured to transmit a signal for changing at least one of a predetermined threshold value and an image quality setting value of the image forming apparatus to the image forming means in response to the worker identification information.

The image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system comprising an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located from the image forming apparatus. Is a plurality of detection means for detecting a feature of the image data by comparing the image data of the original with an image pattern registered in advance, and discriminating whether the original is a predetermined special document based on the result detected by the detection means. And determining means for transmitting the discrimination result information to an external device when the discriminating means determines whether the special document is a predetermined special document, and the management apparatus includes information for changing the image pattern. Is configured to have a means for transmitting to the image forming apparatus.

According to the above-described configuration, the special document is detected by comparing the special document whose copying is prohibited with the image pattern registered in advance, and it is determined whether the special document is based on the detection result. This registration pattern, for example, a pattern, a pattern, etc., can be easily changed from the management apparatus for pattern matching.

The image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention is an image forming apparatus management system composed of an image forming apparatus and a management apparatus connected to the image forming apparatus by a communication line remotely located from the image forming apparatus, and the image forming apparatus managing system. The apparatus includes detecting means for detecting a predetermined special original feature from image data of the original, discriminating means for discriminating whether or not the original is a predetermined special original based on the detection result detected by the detecting means, and discriminating means. And a transmission means for transmitting the image data of the predetermined part of the original to the management apparatus when determining whether the original is a predetermined special original by the document.

According to the above configuration, since the image data of the predetermined place of the original is transmitted to the management apparatus when the original is identified as a special original, tracking and investigation can be facilitated when the counterfeit copy is used.

Other objects, features and advantages of the present invention will become more apparent from the following detailed description and the accompanying drawings.

Hereinafter, the present invention will be described in more detail with reference to the drawings.

A first embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with a first embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

The image forming apparatus (copying machine) comprises image data based on a scanner unit 101 for reading an original to be copied, an image processing unit 102 for processing image data, and image data from the image processing unit 102. And a printer unit 103 for printing. The scanner unit 101 supplies the read image to the image processing unit 102 as image data.

The image processing unit 102 is an example of image data supplied from the scanner unit 101. Shading correction circuit, r correction circuit, gradation processing, etc. are performed. The image data processed by the image processing unit 102 is output to the printer unit 103, and an image by the image data is printed on a recording sheet, for example.

In this image forming apparatus, a bill discrimination control plate 104 corresponding to the special document discriminating apparatus according to the present invention is provided. The bill discrimination control board 104 obtains the image data through the image processing unit 102, and determines whether the image data original is a bill.

The bill discrimination control board 104 is composed of an image memory 106, a ROM 107, an interface 108, a CPU 109, a RAM 110, another interface 11, and the like. .

The image memory obtains and stores image data via the bus 105, and stores data or / and software necessary for determining whether the input image data corresponds to a bill.

The ROM 107 is detachably attached to the control plate 104 for bill discrimination through, for example, an interface 108 which is a general IC connector. In this ROM 107, a program (software) for banknote discrimination is stored, and the CPU 109 determines whether the image data corresponds to a banknote by this program. The CPU 109 and the ROM 107 and the like are connected via the bus 105 and the interface 108.

The RAM 110 is a memory for operating work of the CPU 109.

The determination result of the image data by the CPU 109 is output to the main body control classification (not shown) of the image forming apparatus via the interface 111 rate.

Next, the operation of the image forming apparatus having the above configuration will be described.

First, before the copy operation. It is determined whether or not the ROM 107 is mounted on the banknote discrimination control board 104 via the interface 108. If it is determined that it is not attached, the entire function of the image forming apparatus does not operate, and copying is impossible. Here, it may be determined whether the ROM 107 is connected, or it may be determined as to whether or not predetermined data (magic number) is stored at a predetermined address of the ROM 107. Scanner The image data read by the unit 101 is subjected to shading correction processing, r correction processing, gradation processing, etc. by the image processing intermediate intermediary 102, and is copied to the recording paper in the printer unit 103.

On the other hand, the image data read by the scanner unit 101 is simultaneously transferred from the image processing unit 102 to the banknote discrimination control board 104. Then, it is judged whether or not the image data corresponds to a bill. The discrimination method in the control board 104 for banknote discrimination at this time is not specifically limited. For example, similarly to the conventional example described above, a method of pattern matching may be performed based on image data and pattern data already registered in the ROM 107 to determine similarity, and a method of determining whether the document is a banknote may be used.

The CPU 109 generates a bill signal if it is determined that the image data or the like corresponds to the bill according to the determination result, and generates a non-bill signal if not. The generated signal is transferred to the controller of the image forming apparatus main body through the interface 111. When the banknote signal is input, the controller stops the copying operation and prevents illegal copying of the banknote in advance. The copying operation continues as long as a non-banking signal is input that is not a banknote.

If a new banknote is issued and the degree of discrimination is to be added, only the ROM 107 (old ROM) is removed from the interface 108, and the new banknote is stored in a ROM (new ROM) or the like. May be replaced.

By simply replacing such ROM 107, a bill discrimination control board (special document discrimination apparatus) corresponding to a new banknote can be easily constructed. Therefore, compared to replacing the entire apparatus as in the prior art, it is possible to deal with a new banknote at a low cost.

Note that the ROM 107 can be easily taken out. The ROM 107 is removed from the user side, and there is a risk that the bill can be copied. In the present embodiment, the copier does not operate when it is determined that the ROM 107 is not mounted. It is possible to avoid this risk.

In addition, in addition to the occurrence of a new banknote, for example, when a discriminating method with a good new degree is possible, the discriminating method can be easily added, changed, and the like, which helps to improve the discriminating degree.

Next, a second embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with another embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

In this embodiment, the bill discrimination control board 201 is used in place of the bill discrimination control board of the first embodiment described above.

The banknote discrimination control panel 201 learns medical examination information from the VRAM 202 storing data necessary for discriminating the input image data, the CPU 109 executing the discrimination control, and the input image data. And a new banknote learning unit 203 stored in the VRAM 202. Moreover, the operation part 204 is an input operation part comprised, for example, with a keyboard for designating a new banknote learning mode. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, the description is omitted.

Next, with respect to the second embodiment described above, the operation during new banknote learning will be described. When a new banknote is issued, in the second banknote, in the new banknote learning mode, the new banknote learning test pattern is used to learn the characteristics of the new banknote. Here, a test pattern for learning new banknotes is printed only a part of a bill, for example, the owner of a Japanese yen bill. Learning new bank information by this test pattern is considered to be an offense, even if the banknote is placed on the scanner's scanner, eg the contact glass of the copier, even for new bank information learning.

In the new banknote information learning, an operator first mounts a new banknote learning test pattern at a predetermined position of the scanner unit 101, and designates a new banknote learning mode through the operation unit 204. FIG. Here, the new banknote learning test pattern to be used is a test pattern in which only the features necessary for learning new banknotes are extracted, or by using the present test pattern, the new banknotes are not read by the scanner unit 101. Information can be entered. That is, it is possible to work without committing the illegal copying of new banknotes.

When new bank learning mode is specified. The new banknote learning unit 203 automatically learns new banknote information from the image data input from the scanner unit 101 (that is, data extracted only from a feature necessary for discriminating the new banknote). It is stored in the VRAM 202.

At this time, the capacity of the VRAM 202 is small and there is a possibility of overflow. In such a case, the data of the oldest banknote among the data of the previously registered banknotes may be erased and the information of the new banknotes may be registered.

It may also be erased from the data of a low value banknote.

Remind and grind. In the second embodiment, since new bank information is automatically learned using the new bank learning test pattern, it is possible to respond to new bank money at low cost without exchanging devices or the like.

Next, a third embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention will be described with reference to FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an image forming apparatus equipped with another embodiment of a special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention.

In the present embodiment, the bill discrimination control board 301 is used in place of the bill discrimination control board 104 of the first embodiment described above. The bill discrimination control board 301 includes a VRAM 302 for storing data necessary for discriminating input image data, a CPU 109 for performing discrimination control, and new bank information input from the outside. A communication control unit 303 and the like stored in 302 are provided. Since other configurations are the same as those of the first embodiment described above, the description is omitted.

Next, the input of new banknote information in the above-described third embodiment will be described. When a new banknote is issued, in the third embodiment, the new banknote information is transmitted to the banknote discrimination control board 301 via a communication line network (for example, a telephone line).

The communication control unit 303 connected to the communication line network rewrites the contents of the VRAM 302 into which new bank information is input, as the new bank information. At that time. Since the capacity of the VRAM 302 is small, there is a possibility of overflow. In such a case, the oldest banknote data among the already registered banknote data may be erased, and new banknote information may be registered. And you may erase from banknote data of low value.

As described above, in the third embodiment, by inputting new information into a special document discrimination apparatus from a remote location using a communication network, it is possible to correspond to a new money at low cost without exchanging devices or the like.

As described above, in the third embodiment of the special document discrimination apparatus according to the present invention, each special document discrimination apparatus and the central management apparatus which are located at a remote location are connected using a communication network. Here, in the management system having such a special document discrimination apparatus and connected to the management apparatus, it is possible to have various functions in addition to remote operation input of new information. The example is described below.

First, the configuration of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention equipped with the special document discrimination apparatus will be described.

4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a PPC (copier) 120 and a management system thereof according to the present invention. The PPC 120 includes a CPU 120a, a communication interface 120b, an AC power control unit 120c, or the like, and one or more PPCs are connected to the communication control unit 121.

Each communication control unit 121 is connected to a central management unit 126 at a remote location via telephone line 124 and switchboards 123 and 125.

5 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of the communication control unit 121 described above. The communication control unit 121 controls the interface circuit 121a for completing the role of the interface between the power supply control unit 120c and the CPU 120b of each PPC 120, and control of each part of the communication control unit 121. And a modem 121c for connecting the CPU 121b to be executed, the telephone 122, and the telephone line 124 to the CPU 121b or the like. And a ROM 121d and a ROM 121e connected to the CPU 121b.

The communication control unit 121 performs serial communication at the TTL level with each PPC 120 through the interface circuit 121a.

6 is a block diagram showing the internal structure of the management apparatus 126. As shown in FIG. The management device 126 includes a memory 126d, a printer 126e, a display 126f, a keyboard (connected to a modem 126a, a telephone 126b, a host computer 126c, a host computer 126c, or the like). 126g).

The modem 126a is connected to the telephone line 124 and receives a signal through the telephone line 124. In addition, a telephone 126 and a host computer 126c are connected to the modem 126.

7 is a block diagram showing the schematic configuration of the main CPU except for the image processing section of the PPC 120. As shown in FIG. The main CPU 401 has a group of sensors through the A / D converter 403, such as various types of sensors, for example, photoelectric potential sensors, p sensors, ADS sensors, lamp light amount sensors, drum current sensors, and fixing thermistors. 402 is connected.

The A / D converter 403 converts the analog signal supplied from such a sensor group 403 into a digital signal. In addition, an operation unit 404 composed of a memory cree DIPSW, a human body detecting sensor, a telecommunications control DIPSW, and the like is connected to the main CPU 401 via the IN board 405. In addition, an operation unit 404a composed of a display panel and the like and an OUT board 405a for inputting a control signal from the main CPU 401 to the operation unit 404a are connected to the CPU 401.

On the other hand, the main CPU 401 executes a communication interface 406 for performing communication with the communication control unit 121, a communication interface 407 for performing communication with the CPU 120A, and an exposure process. High-voltage power supply for controlling the optical system control unit 408 for controlling the exposure lamp 409 for performing the exposure process and the charging means 411 such as a charge charger, a separate charger, a transfer charger, a PTC, a development bias, and the like. The unit 410, the motor control unit 412 for controlling the main motor 413, the heater control unit 414 for controlling the fixing heater 415, and the printer control unit 416 for controlling the printer 417. And a sensor sensitivity control unit 418 for controlling the sensor group 419 such as a p sensor, an ADS sensor, and a lamp light amount sensor, a timer 420, and a ram 421 (along with a RAM IC). And a clock (real time clock) function) and a ROM 422 or the like.

In the above configuration, the main CPU 401 executes the operation mode control, the paper conveyance control, the process control around the photoconductor, and the various settings and operations related to special documents such as banknotes and securities. In addition, with respect to the communication between the communication control unit 121 and the management device 126, the main CPU is responsible for the control relationship, and the image processing is performed by the main CPU so that the IPU is responsible for the selection process.

FIG. 8 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an IPU CPU, an IPU and its peripheral parts connected in series with the main CPU shown in FIG. In the figure, the CCD 501 reads an original to generate image information, and the A / D converter 502 converts analog image information output from the CCD 501 into digital image information. The color correction / color processing circuit 503 performs color correction and color processing of the R, G, and B signals output from the A / D converter 502. The selector 504 inputs and selectively outputs BK, C, M, and Y output from the color correction / color processing circuit 503.

The memory 505 temporarily stores a signal output from the selector 504. The LD driving circuit 506 drives the laser diode 506a based on the signal output from the memory 505.

Further, the extraction circuit 507 extracts a specific pattern from the R, G, and B signals output from the A / D converter 502, and the detection circuit I 508 reads the specific pattern (the special manuscript read from the specific pattern I section). Related pattern) and the specific pattern extracted by the extraction circuit 507 or the like are judged.

That is, the detection circuit I 508 determines whether the input image data corresponds to a special document such as a bill.

The memory 510 stores the R, G, and B signals output from the A / D converter 502. The extraction color process selector synthesis circuit 511 extracts the R, G, B signals output from the memory 510 to perform color processing, and selectively synthesizes them. The detection circuit II 512 determines whether or not the signal output from the extraction color processing selector synthesis circuit 51 and the specific pattern (pattern related to the special document) read out from the specific pattern II unit 513 match or the like.

That is, the detection circuit II 512 determines whether the input image data corresponds to a special document such as a bill.

The detection circuit control data buffer 514 stores the detection result from the detection circuit II 512. The ROM 515, the RAM 516, and the IPU CPU 517 are connected to the communication interface 518 for communicating with the main CPU 401 via a bus, respectively.

8 shows an embodiment in which two detection circuits 508 and 512 of a special document are mounted. The detection result output from each detection circuit is stored in the detection circuit control data buffer 514 connected to the data bus of the CPU 517 for the IPU. Accordingly, the detection result of the forgery is transferred to the CPU 517 for the IPU via the data bus, and can also be transmitted to the external device via the telephone line 104 via the data bus and the communication interface.

In the specific pattern I section 509 of the detection circuit I 508, image pattern data of a predetermined place relating to a specific security stock or the like is stored. When image data is input to the extraction circuit 507 in real time during the image forming operation and extracts a specific pattern, the detection circuit is synchronized with the image data and the specific pattern stored in the specific pattern I section 509. Is inputted to I 508.

In other words, this processing is a short processing time required for detecting whether a special document is recognized in synchronization with the image forming operation.

In the specific pattern II section 513 (consisting of EEP ROM and volatilizer RAM) for the detection circuit II 512, image pattern data of a predetermined place such as a specific securities is stored. The hardware configuration is approximately the same as that of the specific pattern I section 509. In the document scanner (separate process condition), an image forming operation or the like is separately executed, and data is once stored on the memory 510. Thereafter, extraction color processing, synthesis, and the like are executed by the extraction color processing selector synthesis circuit 511, and after the arithmetic processing is executed so as to have the same format as the recognition data of the specific pattern II unit 513, Data is input to detection circuit II 512.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 8, although the extraction color processing selector synthesizing circuit 511 is a hardware configuration which is independent, it may be the same as the hardware configuration for image forming.

By using this detection circuit II (512), arithmetic processing can be executed without synchronizing with a series of image forming operations.

Therefore, the time required for detection is long, but the accuracy of detection is improved as compared with the pattern matching of the detection circuit I (508).

9 shows an embodiment having a decision circuit 601 for determining whether a forgery is provided together with a forgery preventing circuit. In this embodiment, determination level data is transferred to the CPU 517 by serial communication from the main CPU 401. Data is input to the detection circuit 608 from the extraction circuit 507 and the specific pattern unit 609 and the like, and the detection result is output to the determination circuit 601. The determination circuit 601 determines whether or not the detection effect from the detection circuit 608 (609 is a specific pattern portion) indicates a forgery in accordance with the determination level. The determination result is transmitted to the main CPU 401 through the communication interface 518. Since other components are the same as those shown in FIG. 8, the description is omitted.

FIG. 10 shows an embodiment having only a detection circuit 708 for detecting a pattern comparison result for detecting whether a forgery is made together with the anti-counterfeiting circuit. The detection circuit 708 receives data from the extraction circuit 507 and the specific pattern unit 709, compares the pattern, and outputs the detection result to the detection result buffer 701. The detection result once stored in the buffer 701 is transmitted to the main CPU 401 via the communication interface 518. Based on the detection result, the main CPU 401 or the management device 126 determines whether forgery is executed. Since other components are the same as those shown in FIG. 8, the description is omitted.

11A, 11B to 16A, and 16B relate to respective embodiments of the above-described configuration, and show operation timing charts of the IPU CPU 517, the main CPU 401, and the management apparatus. An angle A indicates an operation when the discrimination result is not forgery, and a B indicates a case where the discrimination result is forgery. Here the vertical axis with respect to angle represents time.

17 to 24 are flowcharts for explaining the operations shown in 11a and b to 16a and b.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the embodiment of FIGS. 11A and 11B. When copying is started, first, in step 1401 (hereinafter, referred to as step S), the forged flag is set to 1; It is judged whether or not. If it is determined that the counterfeit flag is not set to 1, it is determined in step S1402 whether or not there is transmission data from the IPU. If it is determined that there is a transmission data, the transmission data from the IPU is stored in the memory in S1403. Then, it is determined in S1404 whether it is a forgery, and when it is determined that the forgery is made, a forgery flag is set to 1 in S1405, and a process of inputting forged data to the management device 126 in S1406 is started. In S1407, it is determined whether or not the management device 126 is communicating with another device, and if it is determined that it is not in communication, the communication process is executed in S1408. Next, in S1409, the counterfeit flag is set to 0, and this operation returns to the beginning. If the counterfeit flag is determined to be 1 in S1401, the operation proceeds to S1407, and immediately the communication process is executed. If it is determined in S1402 that there is no transmission, if it is determined in S1404 that there is no forgery, and if it is determined in S1407 that the management apparatus is in communication with another, the operation returns to the beginning.

Here, the communication light in S1407 described above means that the communication line is in a BUSY state.

In addition, the counterfeit flag is 1 means that the determination result is a forgery, whereas the counterfeit flag is 0 means that the determination result is not a forgery.

18 is a flowchart for explaining the operation of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 12A and 12B. When the operation is started, it is first determined whether or not the counterfeit flag is set to 1 in S1501. If it is determined that the forged flag is not set to 1, it is determined whether there is transmission data from the IPU in S1502, and if it is determined that it is determined that it is forged detection data in S1503. As a result, when it is determined that the counterfeit detection data is, the counterfeit detection data is stored in the memory in S1504. Next, in S1505, a process for setting the forged data to the management device 126 is started. In S1506, the forged data flag is set to 1, and in S1507 it is determined whether the management apparatus 126 is communicating with other devices. If it is determined that communication is not in progress, the communication process is executed in S1508. Next, in S1509, the forged data flag is set to 0 and this operation returns to the beginning. If the counterfeit flag is determined to be 1 in S1501, the operation proceeds to S1507 and execution of the communication process is performed immediately. If it is determined in S1502 that there is no transmission, if it is determined in S1503 that the counterfeit detection data is not, and if it is determined in S1507 that the management apparatus is in communication with another, the operation returns to the beginning. Here, the above-described counterfeit data flag is a request flag 126 for transmitting the detection result to the management device 126. In the above-described communication processing of S1408 or S1508, when the determination result or the counterfeit detection data is transmitted to the management apparatus 126 side, data such as user's recognition data, copy mode, time, reference number, copy operation mode until a predetermined recovery time and the like are simultaneously displayed. You may transmit it.

These data are all stored in the NVRAM connected to the main CPU 40. In addition, the auxiliary data, the forged flag, the forged data flag, and the determination result are retained even when the image forming apparatus is powered off. Moreover, this operation corresponds to the embodiment shown in the thirteenths, b and 15a, b.

19 and 20 are flowcharts showing the operation of the embodiment in which the determination process is performed based on the determination level data (threshold level value) transmitted from the management apparatus 126. FIG. First, initial processing at power-on is executed in S1601, and then in S1602, it is determined whether or not communication with the management apparatus 126 is possible. As a result, when it is judged that communication is possible, the station number (Stratus) is transmitted to the management apparatus in S1603. Further, in the operation shown in FIG. 20, in S1701, it is determined whether or not reception of the determination level data has been completed. If it is determined that the reception has not been completed, it is determined whether or not there has been a transmission request from the management device 126 in S1702. If it is determined that there is a transmission request, it is determined in S1703 whether there is determination level data. If it is determined that the determination level data exists, the determination level data is stored in the memory in S1704, and then the state is shifted to the normal standby state. If it is determined in S1701 that the reception of the determination level data has been completed, the process immediately proceeds to the normal standby state. When it is determined in S1702 that there is no transmission request from the management apparatus 126, and when it is determined in S1703 that there is no determination level data, the operation returns to the beginning.

By performing the operations shown in FIG. 19 and FIG. 20 described above, the image forming apparatus transmits device status such as a number to the management apparatus 126 at the time of power-on, and the status is transmitted from the management apparatus 126. After the determination level data (critical level value) corresponding to the truss is received, the process shifts to the normal standby state.

In addition, at the timing other than the above, the determination level data can be received, and in this case, the matter may be completely matched with the exchange of status data performed between the normal management device 126 and the PPC 120. .

21 and 22 show the operation of the embodiments 11a and b. When the operation shown in FIG. 21 is started, first, when it is determined that there is a transmission request from the management apparatus 126 in S1801, it is determined in step S1802 whether or not a copy operation prohibition command is present. If it is determined that there is a copy operation prohibition command, the image forming operation prohibition processing is executed in S1803. Next, it is determined whether or not the image forming apparatus is in the image forming operation in S1804, and if it is determined that the image forming apparatus is not in the image forming operation, then the process of stopping the image forming operation is executed in S1805. In S1806, a guidance indicating a copy prohibition and a prohibition reason is displayed. The transmission means to the management device 126 are the same as the operations shown in FIGS. 17 and 18. If it is determined in S1804 that the image forming operation is in progress, the operation immediately proceeds to S1806, and a guidance letter indicating copy prohibition and reason for prohibition is displayed. When it is determined in S1801 that there is no transmission request from the management apparatus, and when it is determined in S1802 that there is no copy operation prohibition command, the operation returns to the beginning.

Further, when the operation shown in Fig. 22 is started, first, in S1901, it is determined whether there is a transmission request from the management device 126.

If it is determined that there is a request for transmission, it is determined whether there is a copy operation inhibit release command in the next S1902. If it is determined that there is a copy operation prohibition cancel command, the process of canceling the prohibition of the image forming operation is executed in S1903. Then, in S1904, a guide indicating that the image forming operation is possible is displayed.

The operations shown in FIGS. 23 and 24 show the operation of the embodiment shown in FIGS. 16A and 16B. When the operation shown in FIG. 23 is started, first, in S2001, It is determined whether the code is set. If it is determined that the encryption code has been set, it is determined in S2002 whether or not it is an authorized code. That is, the judgment is made as to which of the encryption codes already set on the image forming apparatus side. If it is determined that the code is permitted, it is determined in S2003 whether communication with the management apparatus 126 is possible.

If it is determined that communication is possible, the recognition code (encryption code) is transmitted to the management device 126 in S2004. Here, in S2003, when it is determined that no encryption code is set in S2001, when it is determined that the code is not permitted in S2002, and when it is determined that communication with the management apparatus is not possible in S2004, the operation returns to the beginning.

Further, when the operation shown in FIG. 24 is started, first, in S2101, it is determined whether there is a transmission request from the management apparatus 126.

If it is determined that there is a transmission request, it is determined whether or not there is setting data in S1202. Here, the setting data and the like indicate whether or not the detection means is executed, and in the case where a plurality of detection means are provided, the selection, the threshold level value of the discriminating means, image quality setting, and the like. If it is determined that there is the setting data, the setting data is stored in the memory in S2103, and the image forming operation can be accepted in S2104. Here, when it is determined in S2101 that there is no transmission request from the management apparatus, and when it is determined in S2102 that there is no setting data, the operation is first returned.

FIG. 25 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the specific pattern I section 509 and the specific pattern II section 513 for the detection circuit I 508 and the detection circuit II shown in FIG. The specific pattern I section or 11 section includes a plurality of serial NVRAM 2201 and an NVRAM control section 2202 for controlling the NVRAM 2201. And a FiFo controller 2204 for controlling the FiFo memory 2203 and the FiFo memory 2203. The NVRAM 2201 stores the pattern data transferred from the management device 126 to the PPC 120 through the communication control unit 121. The FiFo memory 2203 synchronizes the extraction pattern, the specific pattern, and the like during image formation. Here, the NVRAM 2201 has a structure in which E ² PROM and SRAM are provided one to one.

In addition, in the specific pattern data replacement memory, serial data transmitted through the NVRAM control unit 2202 is written to the E ² PROM corresponding to the address.

Also, pattern data is set in the SRAM by a Recall instruction (E ² PROM data is called into the SRAM) when the device is powered on, and the detection circuit I (508) through the FiFo memory 2203. Set the synchronization of the II (512). In addition, the bit data required by the specific pattern I section 509 and II section 513 varies greatly depending on the target securities.

FIG. 26 is a block diagram showing the configuration of a portion for performing data transfer to the management apparatus 126. As shown in FIG. The data compression number 2301 receives a signal from the extraction color processing selector synthesis circuit 511 and compresses the data. The memory 2302 stores the output from the data compression unit 2301. The workram 2303 is connected to the data compression unit 2301. Also. Parallel-to-serial converter 2304 converts the output data from the memory 2302 in parallel-to-serial conversion.

In the above configuration, when a specific pattern is recognized, data of any one color among Y, M, C, and BK synthesized by the extraction color processing selector synthesis circuit from the image data of R, G, and B in the memory 510 is stored in the data compression unit. And transferred to 2301, where it is compressed (binarized). The compressed data is stored in the memory 2302 and converted into serial data by the parallel-serial conversion section 2304 and outputted.

In any of the above cases, as shown in FIG. 27, the main CPU 401 on the side of the PPC 120 controls a protocol adjustment for communication of image data, command data, and the like. Run through (2401).

28 is a flowchart showing an operation for executing protocol communication between the management apparatus and the image forming apparatus. First, in S2501, it is determined whether there is a transmission request from the management device 126. If it is determined that there is a transmission request, it is determined whether or not the pattern data exists in S2502. If it is determined that there is pattern data, it is determined whether or not a pattern format has been received in S2503. If it is determined that the pattern format has been received, the data capacity and other formats are transmitted to the IPU in S2504. Thereafter, the serial channel 2401 is switched to the IPU CPU 517 side in S2505, and it is determined whether or not there is a transmission request from the IPU in S2506.

When it is determined that there is a transmission request from the IPU, it is determined whether or not there is a pattern data reception end command in S2507.

When it is determined that there is a pattern data reception end instruction, the serial channel 2401 is switched to the main CPU 401 side in S2508.

Fig. 29 is a flowchart showing the operation until the image forming apparatus is illegally operated and the result is output to the management apparatus. When this operation is started, it is first determined whether the forged flag is set to 1 in S2601. If it is determined that the forged flag is not set to 1, it is determined in S2602 whether or not there is transmission data from the IPU.

As a result, when it is determined that there is transmission data, in S2603, transmission data is stored in the memory from the IPU, and in S2604, it is determined whether or not the determination result is forgery. If it is judged to be forgery, the forgery flag is set to 1 in S2605, and forgery data is set in the management device 126 in S2606. Then, in S2607, it is determined whether the management device 126 is in communication with another, that is, whether the management device 126 is in a BUSY state. If it is determined that it is not in communication with another, communication processing is executed in S2608.

Thereafter, in S2609, it is determined whether or not the image data has been transferred, and if it is determined that the transfer is not completed, in S2601, serial data from the IPU is transmitted to the management apparatus 126.

That is, monochromatic data is compressed and output in series. On the other hand, when it is determined that the image data has already been transferred, the serial channel 2401 is switched from the CPU 517 side for the IPU to the main CPU 401 side in S2611. In S2612, the forged flag is set to zero.

Next, a description will be given of a management system capable of releasing the operation prohibition by remote operation when the image forming apparatus enters the operation prohibition state for some reason such as detecting a forgery of bills. By making it possible to release the operation prohibited state by the remote operation, it is not necessary for a specific worker to go directly to the installation place of the image forming apparatus and directly operate the apparatus, thereby improving workability.

30 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the present management system. In this system, the management device 2701 includes a keyboard 2701a and a display 2701b. A printer 2701c, a memory 2701d, a host computer 2701e, a telephone 2701f and a module 2701g. The image forming apparatus 2702 includes communication means 2702a, recovery means 2702b, and image forming means 2702c. And modem 2701g of management unit 2701. The communication line 2702a and the like of the image forming apparatus 2702 are connected by a telephone line 2703. In addition, a telephone 2704 is connected to the communication means 2702a of the image forming apparatus 2702.

In the above configuration, it is assumed that the image forming apparatus 2702 is set to the image forming prohibition state and is to be returned to the operation state again. In this case, a signal for canceling the operation prohibition is input to the host computer using the keyboard 2701a of the management device 2701. The input signal is subjected to predetermined processing by the host computer to be a release signal, and output to the modem 2701g. The release signal is transferred from the modem 2701g to the communication means 2702a of the image forming apparatus 2702 via a telephone line. The release signal is input from the communication means 2702a to the recovery means 2702b, and the covering means 2702b releases the image forming prohibition state of the image forming means 2702c based on this release signal.

FIG. 31 shows that the image forming apparatus 2702 of the system described above can temporarily cancel the operation prohibition. In this image forming apparatus 2802, temporary recovery means 2802b and an operation unit 2802e are added to the image forming apparatus 2702.

Since the other components of the system are the same as those shown in FIG. 30, the same reference numerals are used, and the description thereof is omitted.

In the image forming apparatus 2802, when the release signal is transmitted to the communication means 2702 via the telephone line 2703, the release signal is input to the temporary recovery means 2702c. The temporary recovery means 2702c temporarily releases the image forming prohibition state of the image forming means 2702c under a specific condition. In addition, the image forming apparatus 2802 has an operation unit 2802d, and the operation prohibition state of the image forming unit is released by inputting a release signal from the operation unit 2802d to the recovery unit 2701a.

Claims (5)

A special document discrimination apparatus connected to an image forming apparatus and determining whether or not image data input from the image forming apparatus corresponds to a predetermined special original, wherein the special document discrimination apparatus is separated from the control circuit board so as to be separated from the control circuit board independently. Storing means for storing the discriminating information for determining whether or not the input image data corresponds to the special manuscript, and whether the input image data corresponds to the special manuscript, Determination means for determining according to the control unit and outputting a determination result to an external unit, judgment means for determining whether the storage means is mounted on the control circuit board, and the storage means is not mounted on the control circuit board. Outputting a signal for prohibiting the operation of the image forming apparatus when the determination means judges; Includes inhibiting means, the storing means is a control circuit is separated and the determining means on the substrate, the special original discrimination device characterized in that the storing means is switched doemeurosseo only the determination information change to the new identification information. The apparatus of claim 1, wherein the special manuscript discriminating apparatus extracts the discriminating information of the special manuscript from the image data input by the image forming apparatus and inputs the discriminating information to the storing means when a predetermined signal is input. Special document discrimination apparatus comprising a. 3. The document according to claim 2, wherein the document for generating image data when the predetermined signal is input is a test pattern having only features necessary for discriminating a special document, and the new banknote learning means is discriminated from the image data according to the test pattern. A special document discrimination apparatus comprising a test pattern learning means for extracting information. The special manuscript discriminating apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the special manuscript discriminating apparatus further comprises communication control means for receiving discriminating information from an external unit via a communication line and outputting the discriminating information to the storing means. The special manuscript of claim 1, wherein the storing means is a ROM package mounted to the control circuit board through a socket, and the determining means judges whether the ROM package is effectively mounted on the socket. Discrimination device.