JP2001326764A - Image forming device management system - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [PROBLEMS] To enable a data communication device to reliably report information of an image forming apparatus to a central control device during a reporting time zone. A data communication device (7) periodically stores a current time in a memory (M1), and stores the time in a memory (M2) when power is turned on.
The power off time is calculated by comparing the time with the time stored in, and only when the power off time does not fall within the predetermined time,
A power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before power-off, which is the time stored in the memory M1, and the power-on time, which is stored in the memory M2, is stored in the power-off log memory in chronological order as power-off log information. Calculate the time period during which the power is periodically shut off according to the log information as the power off time zone,
When the power-off time period and the preset notification time period overlap, the setting of the notification time period is changed in consideration of the number of recalls to the central control device 6 and the recall interval.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a business image forming apparatus management system for remotely controlling an image forming apparatus such as a copying machine, a printer, and a facsimile machine via a communication line and a data communication device by a central control device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art As such an image forming apparatus management system, one or a plurality of image forming apparatuses (copiers and the like which are premised on remote diagnosis) installed in offices and the like of an unspecified number of users (customers) are known. ) Can be connected to a central control unit (host machine) installed in a service center (base for sales, service, etc.) using a data communication device and a communication line such as a public line. I have.

In such an image forming apparatus management system, the image forming apparatus accumulates the number of image formations by a counter in accordance with an image forming operation, and stores information (counter information) indicating the accumulated number of image formations and ROM version. The data communication device sends the information of the image forming apparatus, such as the indicated information and log information such as the surface temperature (fixing temperature) of the fixing roller in the fixing unit, to the central control device of the service center by a self-call or a request from the central management device. Report (Send)
I am trying to do it.

[0004]

By the way, the data communication device is normally powered on all the time, but depending on the customer's environment, the power may be set to be shut off at night or on holidays. However, if the power is turned off due to the setting, the information of the image forming apparatus cannot be notified to the central control unit of the service center by a self-generated call even if a preset notification time period comes, and the system is operated. Above, had been a problem.

[0005] Since the setting of the power cut-off of the data communication device is often not notified on the service center side, the operator of the service center (hereinafter referred to as "center operator") receives the information of the image forming apparatus during the above-mentioned reporting time zone. If the communication is not received, it is determined that a communication error has occurred with the data communication device, and a serviceman dispatch request is sent to the customer where the data communication device is installed.

[0006] As a result, a serviceman visits the customer where the data communication device is installed. At that time, the customer brings a measuring instrument for finding the cause of the occurrence of the communication abnormality, and the customer visits the customer. Perform the prescribed work or check with the customer at the customer's site to find the cause of the communication error, and if it is recognized that the cause was power off of the data communication device, set the reporting time zone. It is necessary to carry out the work of changing the information and to report the fact to the center operator.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above circumstances, and has as its object to enable a data communication apparatus to reliably report information on an image forming apparatus to a central control apparatus during a reporting time zone.

[0008]

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention achieves the above object in a business-use image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing an image forming apparatus via a communication line and a data communication device by a central control device. , Characterized as follows.

The invention according to claim 1 is a means for temporarily storing information from an image forming apparatus in a data communication apparatus, calling a central control apparatus during a predetermined report time period, and reporting the information. A power-off detection processing means for detecting a power-off of the data communication device to calculate a power-off time zone, and comparing the power-off time zone calculated by the means with the above-mentioned notification time zone, so that both time zones overlap. In this case, there is provided a reporting time zone changing means for changing the setting of the reporting time zone.

According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the first aspect, the power-off detection processing means periodically stores and holds the current time;
Means for comparing the time when the data communication apparatus is powered on and the time stored and held by the first storage means to calculate a power off time which is a time difference between the time and the power off time calculated by the means; Is determined by the first memory holding means only when it is determined by the means that the power-off time does not fall within the predetermined time. There is provided a second memory holding means for storing and holding a power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off, which is the stored time, and the power-on time.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the second aspect, the second memory holding means is configured to time-series a power-off time zone consisting of a time immediately before the power-off and the power-on time. This is a means for storing and holding as power-off log information. According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the third aspect, the second storage means includes means for writing new power-off log information on old power-off log information.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system of the third or fourth aspect, the central control unit acquires the power-off log information stored and held by the second storage unit from the data communication device. Means are provided. According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the image forming apparatus management system according to the third or fourth aspect, wherein the power supply to the data communication device is turned off at power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter. A means for transmitting information to the central control device is provided.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to the third or fourth aspect, the data communication apparatus is provided with a power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter.
There is provided means for transmitting to the central control unit power-off information indicating that power has been shut off and power-off log information stored and held by the second storage and holding means.

According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the third to seventh aspects, the power-off detection processing means responds to power-off log information stored and held by the second storage and holding means. Means for calculating a time period during which the power supply of the data communication device is periodically cut off as a power cut-off time period.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the image forming apparatus management system according to any one of the third to eighth aspects, the notification time zone changing means includes a power-off time zone calculated by the power-off detection processing means and the notification time zone. And a means for changing the setting of the above-mentioned reporting time zone in consideration of a preset number of recalls and a recall interval to the central control device when both time zones overlap. .

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in a data communication device,
Means for temporarily storing information from the image forming apparatus, calling the central control apparatus during a predetermined notification time period and notifying the information, and first storage and storage for periodically storing and holding the current time Means for comparing the time when the power of the data communication apparatus is turned on with the time stored and held by the first storage and holding means, and calculating a power-off time which is a time difference between the time and the means calculated by the means. Means for determining whether or not the power-off time falls within a predetermined time set in advance; and storing the first memory only if the means determines that the power-off time does not fall within the predetermined time. A second memory holding means for storing a power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off, which is the time stored and held by the means, and the power-on time in a time-series manner as power-off log information; Rui subsequent preset predetermined time, and means for transmitting the power-off information indicating that power has been cut off to the central control unit is provided, the central control unit,
Means for obtaining power-off log information stored and held by the second storage means from the data communication apparatus when power-off information is received from the data communication apparatus; Means for calculating a time period during which the power of the data communication device is periodically shut down as a power off time period, and calculating a new notification time period for the data communication device based on the power off time period calculated by the means. And a means for downloading the information indicating the report time zone calculated by the means to the data communication device and resetting the report time zone.

According to an eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the data communication device,
Means for temporarily storing information from the image forming apparatus, calling the central control apparatus during a predetermined notification time period and notifying the information, and first storage and storage for periodically storing and holding the current time Means for comparing the time when the power of the data communication apparatus is turned on with the time stored and held by the first storage and holding means, and calculating a power-off time which is a time difference between the time and the means calculated by the means. Means for determining whether or not the power-off time falls within a predetermined time set in advance; and storing the first memory only if the means determines that the power-off time does not fall within the predetermined time. A second memory holding means for storing a power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off, which is the time stored and held by the means, and the power-on time in a time-series manner as power-off log information; Or means for transmitting, to a central control device, power-off information indicating that power has been turned off and power-off log information stored and held by the second storage and holding means at a predetermined time thereafter. When the power-off information and the power-off log information are received from the data communication device in the central control device, the time period during which the power of the data communication device is periodically turned off in accordance with the power-off log information is set as the power-off time. Means for calculating as a band, reporting time period calculating means for calculating a new reporting time period for the data communication device based on the power-off time period calculated by the means, and the reporting time period calculated by the means. Means for downloading information to the data communication device and resetting the report time zone.

The invention of claim 12 is the invention of claim 10 or 11
In the image forming apparatus management system of (1), the notification time zone calculating means compares the power-off time zone with the previously calculated notification time zone, and when the two time zones overlap, the center time preset in the data communication device is set. This is a means for calculating a new notification time zone in consideration of the number of recalls and the recall interval to the control device.

[0019]

Embodiments of the present invention will be specifically described below with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system embodying the present invention.

This image forming apparatus management system includes five image forming apparatuses (copiers, etc.) 1 to
5 and a central control device 6 are connected via a data communication device 7 and a communication line 8 such as a public line so that the central control device 6 can centrally and remotely manage the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. is there. The data communication device 7 is connected to a management terminal device (hereinafter simply referred to as “management terminal”) 9 for managing the data communication device 7.

The data communication device 7 selectively transmits request data (command signal) from the central control device 6 to the image forming devices 1 to 5, and conversely, various notification data (from the image forming devices 1 to 5). Information) is transmitted (reported) to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8. This data communication device 7 has 24
Communication with the central control device 6 is enabled even during nighttime when power is supplied for a time and the power of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 is normally shut off (turned off).

The data communication device 7 and each of the image forming devices 1 to 5
Are connected in a multi-drop manner by the serial communication interface RS-485, and each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to
5 is being communicated with. The data communication device 7 and the management terminal device 9 are connected via a serial communication interface RS-232.
C, and communicates with the management terminal 9 by polling and selecting from the data communication device 7.

The polling is performed by the management terminal device 9 → the image forming device 1 → the management terminal device 9 → the image forming device 2 → the management terminal device 9 → the image forming device 3 → the management terminal device 9 → the image forming device 4 → the management terminal device 9. → image forming apparatus 5 → management terminal apparatus 9
→ image forming apparatus 1 →... The selecting operation and the polling operation in the data communication device 7 will be described later in detail, but the description of the selecting operation and the polling operation for the management terminal device 9 will be omitted for convenience of explanation.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of a control unit of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. Each image forming apparatus 1-5
Are respectively a CPU 11, a real-time clock circuit 12, a ROM 13, a RAM 14, and a non-volatile RAM.
A PPC (image forming apparatus) controller comprising an input / output port 15, an input / output port 16, and serial communication control units 17a, 17b, 17c; and a personal interface (hereinafter, "interface" is abbreviated as "I / F") 18.
And a system bus 19.

The CPU 11 is a central processing unit that controls the whole of the control unit by a control program in the ROM 13. The real-time clock circuit 12 generates and outputs time information, and the CPU 11 can read the information to know the current time. R
The OM 13 is a fixed memory that stores various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 11.

The RAM 14 is a temporary storage memory used as a work memory used when the CPU 11 performs data processing. The non-volatile RAM 15 is a memory that stores data (information) indicating the contents of a mode instruction from an operation display unit (not shown) or the like, and can hold the stored data even when the power is turned off.

The input / output port 16 is connected to output loads such as a motor, a solenoid, and a clutch in the image forming apparatus, and to sensors and switches. Serial communication control unit 1
7a exchanges signals with an operation display unit (not shown).

The serial communication control unit 17b exchanges signals with a document feed unit (not shown). The serial communication control unit 17c exchanges signals with a transfer paper (paper) post-processing unit (not shown).

The personal I / F 18 is an interface circuit that controls communication with the data communication device 7,
It is provided to reduce the load for communication processing with the data communication device 7 of U11. Of course, CPU11
If the processing capacity of the personal I / F 18 is sufficient,
This function may be incorporated in the CPU 11. The main functions of this personal I / F 18 are as follows (1) to
This is as shown in (4).

(1) Monitoring of polling and selecting from the data communication device 7 (2) Processing of acknowledgment and negative response to the data communication device 7 (3) Validity check of data transmitted / received to / from the data communication device 7 , Parity check, and retransmission request processing when an error occurs (4) Header processing of data transmitted / received to / from the data communication device 7

The system bus 19 is a bus line including an address bus, a control bus, and a data bus.
PU11, real-time clock circuit 12, ROM1
3, RAM 14, non-volatile RAM 15, input / output port 1
6, Serial communication control units 17a, 17b, 17
c and the personal I / F 18 are mutually connected.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the personal I / F 18 of FIG. This personal I / F1
Reference numeral 8 denotes a CPU 21, a dual port memory 22, registers 23 to 26, an input port 27, a serial communication control unit 28, a local bus 29, and a device code (device number) setting switch 30.

The CPU 21 has a central processing unit, ROM, R
This is a one-chip microcomputer composed of an AM or the like, and controls the entire personal I / F 18 as a whole. The dual port memory 22 is a data memory that is readable and writable by both the CPU 21 and the CPU 11 of FIG. 2, and is used for exchanging text data between the personal I / F 18 and the PPC controller 31.

The PPC controller 31 includes the CPU 11, the real-time clock circuit 12, the ROM 1
3, RAM 14, non-volatile RAM 15, input / output port 1
6, and the serial communication control units 17a, 17b,
17c. The registers 23 to 26 are used for control at the time of transmitting and receiving the text data, but detailed description is omitted.

The device code setting switch 30 is used to set a unique device code for each image forming apparatus, and is used for device code identification at the time of polling and selecting from the data communication device 7. The serial communication control unit 28 is connected to the personal I / O of the data communication device 7 and / or another image forming device.
Connected to F18.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the data communication device 7 of FIG. The data communication device 7 includes a control unit 41, an auto dialer unit 42, and a line control unit 4
Consists of three. The control unit 41 includes five image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
, And the reception of a command signal from the central control device 6 via the communication line 8 is controlled.

The auto dialer unit 42 is provided for the image forming apparatus 1.
A self-originating call is made to the central control unit 6 based on the various notification data from. The line control unit 43 controls switching between connecting the communication line 8 to the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 or connecting to the general telephone 44 (or facsimile apparatus).

FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the control section 41 of FIG. The control unit 41 includes a CPU 51, a real-time clock circuit 52, a non-volatile RAM 53, a battery 5
4, ROM 55, serial communication control units 56, 5
7, and an input / output port 58.

The CPU 51 is a central processing unit that controls the entire control unit 41 by a control program in the ROM 55. The real-time clock circuit 52 generates and outputs time information, and the CPU 51 can read the information to know the current time.

The nonvolatile RAM 53 temporarily stores transmission data (information) from one of the central control device 6 and the plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the other, or stores one of the plurality of image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. A memory for storing (setting and registering) the device code and ID code for specifying the unit, the telephone number of the central control unit 6, the number of recalls (retry times) when the line connection is not successful, the recall interval, and the like. It is.

The battery 54 includes a real-time clock circuit 5
2 and the non-volatile RAM 53, so that even if the power of the data communication device 7 is cut off,
Continue the operation of the real-time clock circuit 52,
The data stored in the nonvolatile RAM 53 is held. ROM
Reference numeral 55 denotes a read-only memory storing various fixed data including a control program used by the CPU 51.

The serial communication control unit 56 exchanges signals with each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. The serial communication control unit 57 exchanges signals with the management terminal 9. The input / output port 58 is connected to the auto dialer unit 4
2 and the line control unit 43.

Next, a schematic function of the image forming apparatus management system will be described. The functions of the image forming apparatus management system are roughly classified into the following four types (1) to (4).

(1) From the central control unit 6 to the image forming apparatus 1
(5) Communication control from image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to central control device 6 or data communication device 7 (3) Control unique to data communication device 7 (4) Communication control with management terminal 9

The communication control from the central control unit 6 to the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 in (1) includes, for example, the following (a) to (c)
There are the following. (A) The total number of images formed by a specific image forming apparatus, the number of images formed for each paper feed cassette (paper feed cassette), the number of images formed for each transfer paper size, the number of misfeeds, the number of misfeeds for each transfer paper size, Read and reset the number of misfeeds for each transfer paper transport position

(B) Setting and reading of adjustment values such as control voltage, current, resistance and timing of each unit constituting the image forming apparatus. (C) Central control from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 by communication control of (2). Return of communication result to device 6

These controls are performed by receiving a command signal from the central control unit 6 and selecting from the data communication apparatus 7 to the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. The term “selecting” refers to a function of selecting one of the five connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 for communication.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the selecting operation in the data communication device 7. Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 has a unique (specific) device code, and the data communication apparatus 7 should select a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a predetermined selecting function. The serial communication interface RS-
485.

Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 compares the next device code with its own device code by using a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating the selecting function. Know that was selected. Here, if there is data to be transmitted, the selected image forming apparatus outputs a busy response using a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes).

When receiving the busy response, the data communication device 7 interrupts the selecting operation and shifts to the polling operation described below. When there is no data to be transmitted, the selected image forming apparatus determines whether or not it is possible to support the selecting, and if it is possible, an acknowledgment with a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes). To perform communication with the data communication device 7.

If it is not possible to respond, a negative response with a predetermined specific code (or a combination of codes) is output, and the communication with the data communication device 7 is terminated. If the image forming apparatus corresponding to the device code output from the data communication device 7 cannot output an affirmative response or a negative response due to power off or the like, the data communication device 7 waits for a predetermined period of time (timeout). Then, the selecting operation ends.

The communication control from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the central control device 6 or the data communication device 7 in (2) includes, for example, the following (a) to (e). (A) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 immediately transmits information (data) indicating the abnormality (failure) to the data communication device 7 and the communication line 8 when an abnormality (failure) that disables the image forming operation occurs. A notification is sent to the central control device 6 via the PC (emergency notification).

(B) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
By key operation on the operation display unit by the user (customer),
The user shifts from the image forming mode to a user request input mode for inputting a required request (repair request or supply replenishment request) by a different user, and displays a user request input screen on the operation display unit. When the user inputs a required request by pressing a predetermined key on the screen, information indicating the request is immediately transmitted to the data communication device 7 and the communication line 8.
Is notified to the central control device 6 via the PC (emergency notification).

(C) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
When the number of accumulated image formations reaches a predetermined fixed number (contract number), information indicating that fact or information indicating the number of accumulated image formations is immediately controlled via the data communication device 7 and the communication line 8 by the central control unit. Notify the device 6 (emergency call).

(D) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
The information indicating the total number of image formations is transmitted to the data communication device 7 every predetermined period, and the data communication device 7
Is a designated time of the day (the day) (this is set in advance as a notification time zone by the central control device 6, and the data communication device 7
), And collectively reports the data received so far to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8 (non-emergency notification). This communication control includes a control for transmitting data to the central controller 6 without waiting for the specified time when the number of reports of data received up to the specified time reaches a predetermined number. included.

(E) Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5
It is possible to start the image forming operation, but if an event that requires preventive maintenance occurs, such as the specified number of replacement parts, approaching the specified time, or reaching the sensor's standard level, data indicating that is required. The data is transmitted to the data communication device 7, and the data communication device 7 has received the data at the designated time of the day (this is set in advance as a notification time zone by the central control device 6 and stored in the data communication device 7). The data is collectively reported to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8 (non-emergency report). This communication control includes a control for transmitting data to the central controller 6 without waiting for the specified time when the number of reports of data received up to the specified time reaches a predetermined number. included.

These communication controls are performed at the time of polling from the data communication device 7. Polling refers to a function of sequentially designating five connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and confirming the presence or absence of a communication request from the designated image forming apparatus. FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the polling operation in the data communication device 7.

The data communication device 7 sends out a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a predetermined polling function and a device code of the image forming apparatus to be selected to the serial communication interface RS-485. Each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 uses a specific code (or a combination of codes) indicating a polling function.
The next device code is compared with its own device code, and when both codes match, it is known that the user has been polled.

Next, the polled image forming apparatus:
If there is transmission data (a communication request to the data communication device 7 or the central control device 6), communication with the data communication device 7 is started, and if there is no communication request or when the started communication ends, a predetermined specific code is used. The communication with the data communication device 7 is terminated by outputting a termination response (or a combination of codes). Upon receiving the end response, the data communication device 7 shifts to polling of the next image forming device.

If the image forming apparatus corresponding to the device code output from the data communication device 7 cannot start communication or cannot output an end response due to power off or the like, the data communication device 7 is determined in advance. After the elapse of the given time, the polling operation ends. This polling is sequentially repeated for the connected image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 unless selecting occurs.

The control unique to the data communication device 7 of (3) includes, for example, the following (a) and (b). (A) Reading out the total counter value (total number of images formed) (b) Returning the result of communication from the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the data communication apparatus 7 by the communication control of (2)

The reading of the total counter value is controlled as follows.
Once a day from the data communication device 7 to the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 at regular time (00:00, but if the power of the image forming apparatus is off at this time, the power is turned on for the first time after this time) (When it becomes).

The data communication device 7 includes a nonvolatile RAM 53
Two memories for the total counter are prepared (tentatively, these are A and B, respectively), and the total counter value read by the above-mentioned once-a-day selection is written into the memory A. Therefore, the value of the previous day is rewritten in the memory A every day (except when the power supply of the image forming apparatus is not turned on all day, for example, on a holiday).

The total counter value stored in the memory A is stored at a predetermined date and time once a month (this is set by the central controller 6 and stored in the nonvolatile RAM 53 in the data communication device 7). Copy to memory B. Memory B from data communication device 7 to central controller 6
Is sent, and the transfer method is as follows (a)
There are two methods shown in FIG.

(A) The central control device 6 reads the total counter value stored in the memory B of the data communication device 7 after the above date and time (date and time when the contents of the memory A are copied to the memory B). That is, the data communication device 7 is accessed (calling and transmitting a corresponding read command), and the contents of the memory B (total counter values of the image forming devices 1 to 5) transmitted from the data communication device 7 are obtained. I do.

(B) The data communication device 7 makes a self-call after the date and time and sends out the total counter value stored in the memory B to the central control device 6 via the communication line 8. The date and time at which the self-originating call is made is also set by the central control device 6 and stored in the nonvolatile RAM 53 in the data communication device 7.

The data communication device 7 has a nonvolatile RA
A plurality of memories prepared by combining memories A and B are prepared in M53. This is because various total counter values for black-and-white copying, application copying, color copying, and the like can be considered.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between the central control device 6 and the data communication device 7. In FIG. 8, the serial number is a communication block number in one transmission. The first block starts with “01”, and is incremented by 1 thereafter, and is set to “00” after “99”.

The ID code is stored in the data communication device 7 and the five image forming devices 1 connected to the data communication device 7.
5 has the purpose of specifying one image forming apparatus. The identification code is obtained by adding the source and destination of text data to a code (processing code) indicating the type of communication purpose. The processing code is determined as shown in Table 1.

[0070]

[Table 1]

An information record is composed of an information code, the number of digits of a data part, and a data part, and is determined as shown in Table 2. A semicolon (;) separator is inserted between the ID code and the identification code, between the identification code and the information record, and between the information records.

[0072]

[Table 2]

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between the data communication device 7 and the personal I / F 18 of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5. As described above, the device code is uniquely set for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 by the device code setting switch 30 (see FIG. 3), and the association with the ID code in FIG. The data communication device 7 reads from the image forming device at the time of installation connected to the device 7.
The data is stored in the non-volatile RAM 53 and is appropriately converted depending on the transmission direction of the text data.

As described above, the processing code is a code indicating the type of communication purpose, and is obtained by deleting the source and destination of text data from the identification code of FIG. This is also appropriately added or deleted by the data communication device 7 depending on the transmission direction of the text data.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of the structure of text data exchanged between the personal I / F 18 of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and the PPC controller 31 (see FIG. 3), and the data shown in FIG. Communication device 7 and personal I / F
The header, the device code, and the parity part are removed from the text data exchanged with the H.18.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram showing a configuration example of the central control device 6. The central controller 6 connects the two terminals (host machines) 60 and 70 to a local area network (LAN).
The image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 can be centrally and remotely managed via the communication line 8 and the data communication device 7.

The terminal 60 comprises a central processing unit 61, a monitor unit 6
2, a keyboard 63, a storage unit 64, a printer unit 65, a modem 66, and the like. Central processing unit 61
Controls the entire terminal 60 in its entirety.
U, ROM, RAM, real-time clock circuit and the like.

The monitor section 62 displays various kinds of information such as the details of the abnormality to notify the operator. The keyboard 63 is for inputting various information. The storage unit 64 is for storing received data,
D (hard disk device) or non-volatile RAM or R
Use AM.

The printer section 65 prints the received data on transfer paper. The modem 66 is connected to the communication line 8 and modulates / demodulates an analog signal between the communication line 8 and the central processing unit 61. Since the terminal 70 has substantially the same configuration as the terminal 60, description of each unit will be omitted.

Here, in this example of the image forming apparatus management system, the data communication device 7 stores programs corresponding to various functions (means) according to the present invention in the ROM 55 in FIG. By operating according to the program and using the real-time clock circuit 52 and the non-volatile RAM 53 at that time, various functions according to the present invention can be realized.

The central control unit 6 stores programs corresponding to various functions according to the present invention in the ROMs of the central processing units 61 and 71 in FIG. Operates according to the program, and at that time, by using the storage units 64 and 74, various functions according to the present invention can be realized.

Alternatively, the terminals 60 and 7 of the central control unit 6
0, a disk device such as a floppy disk device or an optical disk device is internally or externally attached, and a program corresponding to various functions according to the present invention recorded on a recording medium (a disk such as a floppy disk or an optical disk) by the disk device. After reading the data, the storage unit (hard disk in the HDD or nonvolatile RAM or RAM) 6
4 and 74, the CPUs in the central processing units 61 and 71 operate according to the program, and at this time, by using the storage units 64 and 74, various functions according to the present invention can be realized. .

Next, a basic process (first embodiment corresponding to claim 1) of the image forming apparatus management system according to the present invention will be briefly described. As described above, the CPU 51 of the data communication device 7 temporarily stores the information from each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 and makes a call to the central control device 6 in a preset notification time zone to report the information. Perform processing.

Further, the power supply interruption time of the data communication device 7 is detected to calculate the power supply interruption time period, and the power supply interruption time period is compared with the above-mentioned notification time period.
A process for changing the setting of the report time zone is also performed. Therefore, the data communication device 7 can reliably report the information of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 to the central control device 6 during the reporting time period.

Hereinafter, specific processing according to the present invention in the image forming apparatus management system will be described with reference to FIGS. FIGS. 12 to 17 are flowcharts showing specific processing (each embodiment corresponding to claims 2 to 12) according to the present invention. In each of these drawings, steps are abbreviated as “S”.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of the power-off log information stored in the power-off log information memory (secured in the nonvolatile RAM 53 in FIG. 5 in advance) of the data communication device 7. FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating an example of parameters stored in a parameter memory (secured in the nonvolatile RAM 53 in advance) of the data communication device 7.

[Second Embodiment: FIGS. 12 to 15] FIG.
Is the CPU 5 of the data communication device 7 according to claims 2 to 9.
FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing the power-off detection process according to FIG.
1 is a flowchart showing a power-on process, and FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a notification time zone changing process.
5 is a central processing unit 6 of the terminals 60 and 70 of the central control unit 6
7 is a flowchart showing a power-off log information acquisition process by the power supply units 1 and 71.

In the second embodiment, the data communication device 7
The CPU 51 periodically starts the processing shown in FIG. 12 by calling a main routine (not shown). First, in step 1, the power-off detection timing (this timing is set at a predetermined interval such as 1 minute interval or 10 minute interval) Is confirmed), and if the power-off detection timing has not come, the processing in FIG. 12 is terminated as it is.

If the power-off detection timing has come, the current time (year / month / day / hour / minute / second) indicated by the time information output from the real-time clock circuit 52 in step 2 is previously secured in the memory M1 (non-volatile RAM 53). ), And the processing in FIG. 12 ends. At this time, by overwriting the time information indicating the current time (writing over the previously written time information), the latest time information is always stored and held.

Further, the CPU 51 of the data communication device 7
After the power of the data communication device 7 is cut off (the power is turned off), the power is turned on again (the power is turned on).
Then, the processing shown in FIG. 13 is started by calling the main routine. First, each part is checked (initial diagnosis) in step 11 to confirm that there is no abnormality in each part. Do.

Next, at step 13, the current time (year, month, day, hour, minute, second) is stored and held in the memory M2 (secured in the nonvolatile RAM 53 in advance). At this time, by overwriting the time information indicating the current time, the latest time information is always stored and held.

Subsequently, the time immediately before the power is turned off and stored in the memory M1 in step 14 (the last time when the power is turned on).
Is compared with the power-on time stored in the memory M2 to calculate a power-off time (time during which the power is off), which is the time difference. In step 15, the power-off time is a predetermined time set in advance. (For example, 10 minutes or 1 hour).

If the power cutoff time falls within the predetermined time, there is no problem in the operation of the system, and it is determined that the power supply is normal, and the processing in FIG. 13 is terminated. If the power cutoff time does not fall within the predetermined time, a problem occurs in the operation of the system. Therefore, in order to change the setting of the notification time by the processing described later, the power cutoff stored in the memory M1 in step 16 is performed. A power-off time zone consisting of the immediately preceding time and the power-on time stored and held in the memory M2 is stored and held.

At this time, as shown in FIG. 18, for example, a power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off stored in the memory M1 (power-off time) and the power-on time stored in the memory M2 is shown in FIG. , Can be stored in the power-off log memory as power-off log information in chronological order, and this is the case here. In addition, the power-off log memory can store and hold the power-off log information for one week or one month, and when the power-off log memory becomes full, the new power-off log information is replaced with the old power-off log information. Can be written on information.

A power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off stored in the memory M1 and the power-on time stored in the memory M2 is stored in the power-off log memory in time series as power-off log information. After that, step 17
Then, the power-off information indicating that the power has been turned off is transmitted to the central control device 6 as text data, and the processing in FIG.

Here, a report to the central control device 6 such as a report of the total counter value for each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 (hereinafter also referred to as a "probable report") is completed by one call. The call may be completed or completed several times due to a busy line or the like.

Therefore, the report is completed based on the report start time (part of the report time zone), the number of recalls (the number of redials), and the recall interval (the redial wait time) stored in the parameter memory. It is necessary to calculate the time required for the notification, and calculate the notification completion time (final arrival time) from the calculated time. If the notification time zone consisting of the notification start time and the notification completion time is fixed, if the power shutdown time zone does not fall within the predetermined time, it cannot be completed due to the power shutdown. The band needs to be changed.

Therefore, the CPU 51 of the data communication device 7
Is called periodically by calling the main routine.
The processing shown in FIG. 14 is also started, and it is first checked in step 21 whether the power of the data communication apparatus 7 has been turned off. If the power has not been turned off, the processing in FIG. If so, it is checked in step 22 whether or not there is a time period during which the power of the data communication device 7 is periodically shut off according to the power-off log information stored in the power-off log memory.

Here, there are a case where the power supply of the data communication device 7 is periodically cut off and a case where it is suddenly generated (for example, during a repair work). Check for presence. In a power off time zone, the power may be shut off on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays in a certain environment. Therefore, the power off log information (see FIG. 18) and the clock function (the real-time clock circuit 5) are used.
In order to know whether the power was cut off from 2) on Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays.

If there is no time period during which the power supply is periodically cut off, the processing in FIG. 14 is terminated. Is determined as the power-off time zone, and step 2
In step 4, it is determined whether or not the power-off time period and the preset (currently set) notification time period overlap, and if not, the process in FIG. 14 ends.

When the power-off time period and the report time period overlap (for example, information reported at a predetermined date and time, such as a confirmation report, cannot be reported if this report time period overlaps with the power-off time period). , At step 25, a report time setting range is calculated. Here, since there is information to be reported when nighttime communication is small, a time zone in which a report can be made, that is, a report time setting range is inevitably determined.

Next, in step 26, the power-off time period is subtracted (deleted) from the report time setting range, and the remaining portion is set as a reportable time period in the memory M3 (non-volatile RAM 53).
Is stored in advance) and stored in step 27,
At 28, a new reporting time zone is calculated so as to fall within the reporting available time zone. At this time, the following points are also considered.

For example, if the report start time is 22:20 and the time at which the power is turned off is 22:25, there seems to be no problem, but in reality, the line is busy for the report in this case. May wait for a recall. In this case, the power may be cut off when attempting to re-call, so in consideration of these, the reportable time period is set to one hour before the power is cut off, and the re-call interval and the re-call time are set. It is desirable to calculate the reportable time zone in consideration of the number of times.

In consideration of the re-call interval (consisting of the response waiting time and the re-call waiting time) and the number of re-calls, it is necessary to calculate the time required for the notification. T1, recall waiting time T2,
Assuming that the number of recalls is N, the following relationship is established. T = (T1 + T2) * N + T1 For example, when T1 = 40 seconds, T2 = 50 seconds, and N = 3, the time T required for notification is 310 seconds.

After that, in order to be within the reportable time zone,
A new reporting time zone is calculated using a random number. The reason for using a random number is to prevent reporting time zones of other data communication devices (not shown) from overlapping as much as possible. After calculating the new notification time, in step 29, the notification time zone (see FIG. 19) stored in the parameter memory is updated to the new notification time zone (the setting of the notification time zone is changed).

Next, at step 30, the updated date is added to the information indicating the new notification time zone after the update, and the information is transmitted to the central control unit 6 as text data, followed by terminating the process of FIG. As a result, even if new various parameters to be stored in the parameter memory are subsequently downloaded from the central control device 6, the previously updated notification time zone does not change.

Incidentally, the description of the above-described report time zone change processing is omitted, but actually, as shown in FIG.
SC (serviceman call), MC (manual call), consumables, alarm, power, B. A report time zone can be set for each report of B (block billing). In addition, since these report time zones are different, the calculation method also changes the conditions according to each report.

On the other hand, the central processing units 61 and 71 (actually one of the terminals) of the terminals 60 and 70 of the central control unit 6 periodically start a power-off information display process (not shown) by calling a main routine. When the power-off information display process is received from the data communication device 7, it is displayed on the monitor units 62 and 7.
2 is displayed.

The central processing units 61 and 71 of the terminals 60 and 70 of the central control unit 6 periodically start the processing shown in FIG. 15 by calling the main routine. It is checked whether or not there is a power-off log information acquisition request, and if there is no power-off log information acquisition request, the processing in FIG. 15 is terminated.

When there is a power off log information acquisition request,
The power off log information is acquired from the data communication device 7. At this time, information indicating a request to transmit power-off log information is transmitted to the data communication device 7 as text data. Thereby, the data communication device 7 receiving the text data
Reads out the power-off log information stored in the power-off log memory and transmits it to the central control device 6 as text data.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, the data communication device 7 and the central control device 6 perform the following (A1)
By performing the processes shown in (A7) to (A7), various effects can be obtained.

(A1) The data communication device 7 periodically (at predetermined intervals) stores and holds the current time (output value of the real-time clock circuit 52) in the memory M1 (first storage and holding means), and turns on the power. After that time is stored and held in the memory M2, the power-on time is compared with the time when the power is stored and held in the memory M1 to calculate a power-off time, which is the time difference, and the power-off time is set to a predetermined value. It is determined whether or not the time is within the predetermined time, and only when the power-off time is not within the predetermined time, the time immediately before the power-off, which is the time stored and held in the memory M1, and the power-on time, which is stored and held in the memory M2, The power off time zone consisting of

In this way, the following effects can be obtained. In other words, if the power shutdown time is short enough to be within the predetermined time and there is no problem in the operation of the system, the power shutdown time zone is canceled without being stored and saved, so that unnecessary processing is not performed. And the processing efficiency is improved.

Further, by effectively using the output value of the real-time clock circuit 52, the data communication device 7 can be used with existing hardware components (without adding hardware components).
Power cut-off period can be calculated by detecting the power cut-off, and if the power cut-off time period and the notification time period overlap,
By changing the setting of the notification time zone, it is possible to reliably prevent the information of each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 from not being notified due to the power cutoff. That is, each of the image forming apparatuses 1 to
5 can be reported to the central controller 6 without fail.

(A2) The data communication device 7 stores the data in the memory M1
The power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before the power-off stored in the memory M2 and the power-on time stored in the memory M2 is stored in the power-off log memory (second storage holding means) as power-off log information in chronological order. Hold. By doing so, the power supply situation in the installation environment of the data communication device 7 can be grasped by analyzing the power-off log information.

(A3) The data communication device 7 writes new power-off log information on old power-off log information in the limited power-off log memory (uses the power-off log memory endlessly). In this way, the power-off log memory can be used efficiently, and overflow of the power-off log memory can be avoided.

(A4) The central control device 6 acquires the power-off log information from the data communication device 7. This makes it easy to analyze the data communication device 7 when it is abnormal.

(A5) When the power is turned on (or at a predetermined time thereafter), the data communication device 7 transmits the power-off information indicating that the power has been turned off to the central control device 6.
Send to

In this way, if there is no notification from any of the data communication devices including the data communication device 7, the central control device 6 will use that information based on the power-off information received from the data communication device 7. By comparing the data communication device 7 with the data communication device that has not been notified, and when it is recognized that the two devices are the same, communication can be performed to the data communication device 7 so that early action can be taken.

(A6) The data communication device 7 calculates a time period during which power is periodically cut off as a power-off time period according to the power-off log information stored in the power-off log memory. In this way, it is possible to more reliably avoid a non-report to the central control device 7, and to operate the system more smoothly.

(A7) The data communication device 7 compares the power-off time zone with the report time zone. If the two time zones overlap, the data communication device 7 sets a preset number of recalls and recalls to the central control device 6. Change the setting of the notification time zone in consideration of the interval.
By doing so, the certainty of the notification to the central control device 7 is further improved.

In the second embodiment, as described above, the data communication device 7 supplies the power supply indicating that the power supply has been cut off at step 17 in FIG. 13 (or at a predetermined time thereafter). The power-off information is transmitted to the central controller 6 as text data. At this time, the power-off information and the power-off log information stored in the power-off log memory may be transmitted to the central controller 6 as text data. it can.

In this case, the effect of (A4) can be obtained, and the processing of FIG. 15 can be abolished in the central control unit 6, so that the processing load is reduced and the processing efficiency is improved.

[Third Embodiment: FIG. 16] FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing terminals 60 and 7 of the central control unit 6 according to the tenth and twelfth aspects.
It is a flowchart which shows the notification time zone reset processing by the central processing units 61 and 71 of 0.

In the third embodiment, the data communication device 7
CPU 51 of FIG. 12 and FIG.
The power-off detection process and the power-on process described above are performed. On the other hand, the central processing units 61 and 71 of the terminals 60 and 70 of the central control device 6 periodically start the processing shown in FIG.
In step 1, it is checked whether or not the power-off information has been received from the data communication device 7. If the power-off information has not been received, the processing in FIG.

If power off information is received, step 4
In step 2, power-off log information is acquired from the data communication device 7, and then in steps 43 to 49, steps 22 to 28 in FIG.
The same processing as described above is sequentially performed, and in steps 48 and 49, a new reporting time zone is calculated so as to be within the reportable time zone. In step 50, the new reporting time zone is stored in the storage units 64 and 74. Then, in step 51, the update date is added to the information indicating the new reporting time zone, and the various parameters are downloaded to the data communication device 7 as text data to update the various parameters in the parameter memory (the reporting time zone). Reset).

As described above, according to the third embodiment, the data communication device 7 and the central control device 6 have the following (B1) to
By performing the processing shown in (B3) respectively, the second
The same effect as that of the embodiment can be obtained. In addition, the central control device 6 resets the reporting time of the data communication device 7 whose power supply is periodically cut off, so that mutual information management becomes easy.

(B1) The data communication device 7 periodically stores the current time in the memory M1, stores the current time in the memory M2 when the power is turned on, and then stores the current time in the memory M1 and then stores the current time in the memory M1. The power-off time, which is the time difference, is calculated by comparing the power-off time, and it is determined whether or not the power-off time falls within a predetermined time, and if the power-off time does not fall within the predetermined time. Only in this case, the power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before power-off, which is the time stored and held in the memory M1, and the power-on time, which is stored and held in the memory M2, is stored and stored as power-off log information in chronological order. Further, at the time of power-on (or at a predetermined time thereafter), power-off information is transmitted to the central control device 6.

(B2) When the central control device 6 receives the power-off information from the data communication device 7,
Power interruption log information is acquired from the power interruption log information, and a time period during which the power supply of the data communication device 7 is periodically shut down is calculated as a power interruption time period according to the power interruption log information, and data is calculated based on the power interruption time period. A new reporting time zone of the communication device 7 is calculated, and various parameters including information indicating the reporting time zone are downloaded to the data communication device 7 as text data to update the various parameters. It should be noted that only the information indicating the reporting time zone is used as text data as the data communication device 7.
You can also download the report and reset the report time zone.

(B3) When the central control unit 6 calculates a new notification time zone of the data communication device 7, the central control unit 6 compares the power-off time zone with the previously calculated notification time zone, and the two time zones overlap. In this case, a new reporting time zone is calculated in consideration of the number of recalls and the recall interval to the central control device 6 set in the data communication device 7 in advance.

[Fourth Embodiment: FIG. 17] FIG. 17 shows terminals 60 and 7 of the central control unit 6 according to the eleventh and twelfth aspects.
It is a flowchart which shows the notification time zone reset processing by the central processing units 61 and 71 of 0.

Also in the fourth embodiment, the data communication device 7
CPU 51 of FIG. 12 and FIG.
The power-off detection process and the power-on process described above are performed. However, the power-off information indicating that the power has been turned off at step 17 in FIG. 13 (which may be a predetermined time thereafter) and the power-off log information stored and held in the power-off log memory are used as text data. Transmit to central controller 6.

On the other hand, the central processing units 61 and 71 of the terminals 60 and 70 of the central control unit 6 periodically start the processing shown in FIG. 17 by calling the main routine. It is checked whether or not the power-off information and the power-off log information have been received. If the power-off information and the power-off log information have not been received, the processing in FIG.

If the power-off information and the power-off log information have been received, the process proceeds to steps 43 to 63 in FIG.
The same processes as in steps # 51 to # 51 are sequentially performed. Thus, the fourth
According to the embodiment, the same effects as in the third embodiment can be obtained by the data communication device 7 and the central control device 6 performing the following processes (C1) to (C3), respectively.

(C1) The data communication device 7 periodically stores and holds the current time in the memory M1, stores the time in the memory M2 when the power is turned on, and then stores and holds the power-on time and the memory M1. The power-off time, which is the time difference, is calculated by comparing the power-off time, and it is determined whether or not the power-off time falls within a predetermined time, and if the power-off time does not fall within the predetermined time. Only in this case, the power-off time zone consisting of the time immediately before power-off, which is the time stored and held in the memory M1, and the power-on time, which is stored and held in the memory M2, is stored and stored as power-off log information in chronological order. Further, at the time of power-on (or at a predetermined time thereafter), power-off information and power-off log information are transmitted to the central control device 6.

(C2) When the central control device 6 receives the power-off information and the power-off log information from the data communication device 7, the power of the data-communication device 7 is periodically cut off according to the power-off log information. Is calculated as a power-off time zone, a new reporting time zone of the data communication device 7 is calculated based on the power-off time zone, and various parameters including information indicating the reporting time zone are converted into text data. It is downloaded to the communication device 7 to update various parameters. Note that it is also possible to download only the information indicating the report time zone as text data to the data communication device 7 and reset the report time zone.

(C3) When the central control unit 6 calculates a new notification time zone of the data communication device 7, the central control unit 6 compares the power-off time zone with the previously calculated notification time zone, and the two time zones overlap. In this case, a new reporting time zone is calculated in consideration of the number of recalls and the recall interval to the central control device 6 set in the data communication device 7 in advance.

[0138]

As described above, according to the image forming apparatus management system of the present invention, the data communication apparatus
The information on the image forming apparatus can be reliably reported to the central control device during the reporting time zone.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image forming apparatus management system embodying the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control unit of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 in FIG.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a personal I / F 18 in FIG. 2;

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a data communication device 7 of FIG. 1;

FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a control unit 41 of FIG. 4;

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a selecting operation in the data communication device 7 of FIG.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing an example of the polling operation.

8 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged between a central control device 6 and a data communication device 7 in FIG.

FIG. 9 shows a data communication apparatus 7 and image forming apparatuses 1 to 5 similarly.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a configuration example of text data exchanged with a personal I / F.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a personal I / O of the image forming apparatuses 1 to 5;
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration example of text data exchanged between an F and a PPC controller.

FIG. 11 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a central control device 6 of FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing a power-off detection process by the CPU 51 of FIG. 5 corresponding to claims 2 to 9;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a power-on process.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a notification time zone change process.

FIG. 15 is a flowchart showing power-off log information acquisition processing by central processing units 61 and 71 of FIG. 11 corresponding to claims 2 to 9;

FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing a notification time zone resetting process by the central processing units 61 and 71 of FIG. 11 corresponding to claims 10 and 12;

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing a notification time zone resetting process by the central processing units 61 and 71 of FIG. 11 corresponding to claims 11 and 12;

18 is a diagram showing an example of power-off log information stored in a power-off log information memory in the nonvolatile RAM 53 of FIG. 5;

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of parameters stored in the parameter memory.

[Explanation of symbols]

1 to 5: Image forming device 6: Central control device 7: Data communication device 8: Communication line 11, 21, 51: CPU 12, 52: Real time clock circuit 13, 55: ROM 14, RAM 15, 53: Non-volatile RAM 16, 58: input / output ports 17a, 17b, 17c, 56, 57: serial communication control unit 18: personal I / F 31: PPC controller 41: control unit 42: auto dialer unit 43: line control unit 54: battery 60, 70: Terminal 61, 71: Central processing unit 62, 72: Monitor unit 63, 73: Keyboard 64, 74: Storage unit 65, 75: Printer unit 66: Modem 80: Network

Continued on the front page F term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AQ06 HK15 HK19 HK23 HN15 HQ01 2H027 DA44 DA50 EE08 EF16 EF17 EF18 EJ08 EJ13 EJ15 EJ18 5C062 AA02 AA05 AA13 AB38 AB42 AC21 AC36 AC04 AF00 AF06

Claims (12)

[Claims] 1. A business image forming apparatus management system for remotely controlling an image forming apparatus via a communication line and a data communication apparatus by a central controller, wherein information from the image forming apparatus is temporarily stored in the data communication apparatus. Means for storing and calling the central control unit to notify the information during a preset notification time period, and power-off detection processing for detecting power-off of the data communication device and calculating a power-off time period Means, and a power off time zone calculated by the means and the notification time zone are compared, and when both time zones overlap, a notification time zone changing means for changing the setting of the notification time zone is provided. An image forming apparatus management system, characterized in that: 2. The power-shut-down detection processing means periodically stores and holds a current time, and when the power of the data communication apparatus is turned on, the time and the first memory holding means are provided. Means for calculating the power-off time, which is the time difference, by comparing the time with the time stored and retained, and a method for determining whether or not the power-off time calculated by the means falls within a predetermined time set in advance. Disconnection and the time immediately before the power-off, which is the time stored and held by the first storage-holding means, and the power-on only when the power-off time is determined not to be within the predetermined time by the means. And a second memory holding means for storing and holding a power-off time zone consisting of a time.
An image forming apparatus management system according to claim 1. 3. The power supply system according to claim 2, wherein the second memory holding means is a means for storing and holding a power-off time zone consisting of a time immediately before the power-off and the power-on time in a time-series manner as power-off log information. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 2, wherein: 4. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 3, wherein said second storage and holding means has means for writing new power-off log information on old power-off log information. 5. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 3, wherein the central control unit sends the second communication from the data communication device to the second control unit.
An image forming apparatus management system provided with a unit for acquiring power-off log information stored and held by the storage unit. 6. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 3, wherein the power supply to the data communication apparatus is turned off at power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: means for transmitting information to a central control device. 7. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 3, wherein the power supply to the data communication apparatus is turned off at power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter. An image forming apparatus management system, comprising: means for transmitting information and power-off log information stored and held by said second storage and holding means to a central control device. 8. The power-off detection processing means shuts off power during a time period when the power of the data communication device is periodically shut off according to power-off log information stored and held by the second storage and holding means. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 3, further comprising a unit that calculates the time zone. 9. The notification time zone changing means compares a power-off time zone calculated by the power-off detection processing means with the notification time zone, and when both time zones overlap, a preset time is set. The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 3 to 8, wherein the unit is configured to change the setting of the report time zone in consideration of the number of recalls and the recall interval to the central control device. Management system. 10. A business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing an image forming apparatus via a communication line and a data communication apparatus by a central controller, wherein information from the image forming apparatus is temporarily stored in the data communication apparatus. Means for storing and calling the central control unit during a preset notification time period to notify the information, first storage and holding means for periodically storing and holding the current time, and the data communication device Means for comparing the time when the power is turned on with the time stored and held by the first memory holding means to calculate a power cutoff time which is a time difference between the time and the power cutoff time calculated by the means. Means for determining whether or not the power cutoff time is within a set predetermined time; and only when the power cutoff time is determined not to be within the predetermined time, A second memory holding means for storing and holding a power-off time zone consisting of a time immediately before power-off, which is a time stored and held by the first memory-holding means, and the power-on time in a time-series manner as power-off log information; At power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter.
Means for transmitting power-off information indicating that power has been shut off to a central control device, wherein the central control device receives the power-off information from the data communication device, and receives the power-off information from the data communication device. Means for acquiring the power-off log information stored and held by the storage means, and a power-off time period in which the power supply of the data communication apparatus is periodically shut off according to the power-off log information obtained by the means. Means for calculating as a cut-off time zone, report time-zone calculating means for calculating a new report time zone for the data communication device based on the power-off time zone calculated by the means, and report time calculated by the means Means for downloading information indicating a band to the data communication device and resetting the report time period. 11. A business image forming apparatus management system for remotely managing an image forming apparatus via a communication line and a data communication apparatus by a central control device, wherein information from the image forming apparatus is temporarily stored in the data communication apparatus. Means for storing and calling the central control unit during a preset notification time period to notify the information, first storage and holding means for periodically storing and holding the current time, and the data communication device Means for comparing the time when the power is turned on with the time stored and held by the first memory holding means to calculate a power cutoff time which is a time difference between the time and the power cutoff time calculated by the means. Means for determining whether or not the power cutoff time falls within the set predetermined time; and only when the power cutoff time is determined not to fall within the predetermined time by the means, A second memory holding means for storing and holding a power-off time zone consisting of a time immediately before power-off, which is a time stored and held by the first memory-holding means, and the power-on time in a time-series manner as power-off log information; At power-on or at a predetermined time thereafter.
Means for transmitting power-off information indicating that power has been turned off and power-off log information stored and held by the second storage and holding means to a central control device; Means for, when receiving the power-off information and power-off log information from the device, calculating a time period during which the power of the data communication device is periodically shut off as a power-off time zone according to the power-off log information; Reporting time zone calculating means for calculating a new reporting time zone for the data communication device based on the power-off time zone calculated by the means; and information indicating the reporting time zone calculated by the means to the data communication device. And a means for resetting the notification time zone by downloading to the image forming apparatus. 12. The notification time zone calculation means compares the power-off time zone with a previously calculated notification time zone, and when both time zones overlap, the center time preset in the data communication device. 12. The image forming apparatus management system according to claim 10, wherein the means for calculating a new notification time zone in consideration of the number of recalls and the recall interval to the control device.