JPH07129044A - Image forming device - Google Patents

Abstract

PURPOSE:To simply perform self-diagnosis for communication states between first and second control means at a low cost by transferring prescribed inspection data with first and second control means based on stored communication inspecting control information and deciding the communication state of inspection data. CONSTITUTION:A control means 800 and a communication control means 900 are connected via an interfaces 805 and 907 and perform the transfer of control data between the control means 800 of a main body and the communication control means 900 using a public line. Then, an inspection mode communication control between first and second control means 800, 900 is started based on the control information stored in a storage means ROM 802 by detecting a transfer information inspecting request from an input means (service switches of the inside of the main body). Further, the inspection mode communication control diagnosing communication processings between first and second control means can be started by using the functional means of an image forming device without connecting an external measuring instrument to the main body of the image forming device.

Description

Detailed Description of the Invention

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus having an external interface and capable of communicating with an external device.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, an image forming apparatus having an external interface and capable of communicating with an external apparatus has been proposed, and an existing image forming apparatus is equipped with an accessory device for remote operation, that is, a so-called communication control device, from a remote location. To operate the image forming device,
It is configured so that data transfer can be performed between the image forming apparatus and a remote information device.

In this case, for example, the following methods (1) and (2) are adopted to judge whether or not the data communication is normally performed between the communication control device and the image forming device. .

(1) The continuity of the communication path between the communication control device and the image forming apparatus is inspected by a measuring device (for example, a tester).

(2) A device for monitoring the status of data communication is connected on the communication path between the communication control device and the image forming device to evaluate the communication data.

[0006]

By the way, in this type of communication control apparatus, a seller or the like who maintains the image forming apparatus is connected to the image forming apparatus operating at the user's site for the convenience of business. Therefore, it is cheap and easy to install and maintain.

However, according to the above-mentioned method, when the service person connects the communication control device to the existing image forming apparatus in the market, he / she brings a special measuring instrument and connects the image forming apparatus and the accessory device. You must change the wiring and connect the measuring device to check whether the attached device is operating normally and is properly connected to the main body of the image forming apparatus.

Further, in the case where communication is not normally performed between the image forming apparatus and an information device such as a computer installed in a remote place, the serviceman also has the above-mentioned means in order to identify a failure location. The method has to be applied, and there is a problem that the work for maintenance is complicated.

In order to solve such a problem, it may be possible to provide an input device and a display device for monitoring and testing the communication status in an auxiliary device such as a communication control device. The cost will increase.

Further, providing a means for monitoring the contents of communication on the communication control device means that, considering the confidentiality of the contents of communication,
It's never desirable. Even if the monitor means is provided, it is necessary to take various measures to maintain the confidentiality, and there is a problem that the cost is further increased.

The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and the first control means and the second control means mutually exchange predetermined inspection data based on the stored communication inspection control information. To determine the communication state of the inspection data, the communication state between the first control means for controlling the main body and the second control means for controlling the communication between the external device and the main body is inexpensive and An object of the present invention is to provide an image forming apparatus that can easily perform self-diagnosis.

[0012]

An image forming apparatus according to the present invention is provided with a storage means for storing control information for inspecting a communication state between the first control means and the second control means, and an input means. Is configured to start a test mode communication control between the first control means and the second control means based on the control information stored in the storage means. It is a thing.

In the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and The second control means is configured to perform communication control for transferring the inspection data received from the first control means to the first control means.

Further, in the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and The second control means is configured to perform communication control for transferring the encrypted data encrypted based on the inspection data received from the first control means to the first control means.

The first control means compares the inspection data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and displays the comparison result on the display means. It is configured to display.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means. The comparison result is displayed on the display means.

[0017]

In the present invention, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, and the inspection between the first control means and the second control means is performed based on the control information stored in the storage means. Since the mode communication control is started, communication processing between the first control means and the second control means is performed by using the functional means of the image forming apparatus without connecting any external measuring device to the image forming apparatus. It is possible to start inspection mode communication control for diagnosis.

In the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and The second control means performs communication control for transferring the inspection data received from the first control means to the first control means, and therefore the first control is performed based on the control information stored in the storage means. It is possible to reliably perform the inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the means and the second control means.

Further, in the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and Since the second control means performs communication control for transferring the encrypted data encrypted based on the inspection data received from the first control means to the first control means, the control information stored in the storage means Based on the above, the inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the first control means and the second control means can be surely performed while maintaining the confidentiality.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data returned from the second control means with predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and displays the comparison result on the display means. Since it is displayed, the inspection result can be displayed on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means. Since the comparison result is displayed on the display means, the inspection result can be displayed on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

[0022]

1 and 2 are block diagrams illustrating the configuration of an image forming apparatus showing an embodiment of the present invention.

In these figures, 100 is the main body of the image forming apparatus (main body), 800 is control means for controlling the image forming operation, 900 is communication control means for transmitting / receiving data to / from an external communication line, and 908. Is a public line that is an external communication line, and 999 is a host computer that is set as a management base for managing the image forming apparatus main body 100. The CPU 901 controls the communication control unit 900, and temporarily holds communication data. Memory (RAM) 90
3, a modem (modulator / demodulator) 905 for placing digital communication data on the public line 908, a network controller unit (NCU) 906, and the like.

FIG. 3 shows the main body 1 of the image forming apparatus shown in FIG.
It is sectional drawing explaining the hardware constitutions of 00.

In the figure, reference numeral 200 is a circulation command automatic current feeder (RDF) for automatically feeding originals, 300 is a sorter for sorting sheets having undergone image forming processing, and 400 is an automatic computer form feeder (CFF). In addition,
The RDF 200, the sorter 300, and the CFF 400 are configured so that they can be freely combined with the image forming apparatus main body 100 to form a system.

In the image forming apparatus main body 100, 101
Is a platen glass as a current mounting table. Reference numeral 102 denotes an optical system as an image reading means, which includes a document illumination lamp (exposure lamp) 103, a scanning mirror, a lens, and a motor 1.
04, the original is illuminated by the original lamp 103 while being scanned by the motor 104, and reflected light from the original is applied to the photosensitive drum 105 by the scanning mirror and the lens. It should be noted that an optical sensor or a mechanical sensor serving as a detecting means is arranged at a predetermined position.

Around the photosensitive drum 105, a high voltage unit 106, a blank exposure unit 107, and a potential sensor 1
08, developing device 109, transfer charger 110, separation charger 1
11, a cleaning device 112 and the like are provided, and these constitute image recording means.

The photosensitive drum 105 is rotated by the main motor 113 in the direction of the arrow shown in FIG.
6 is corona-charged, and when the optical system 102 irradiates the reflected light of the document, an electrostatic latent image is formed. This electrostatic latent image is developed by the developing device 109 and visualized as a toner image.

On the other hand, the transfer paper sent from the upper cassette 114 or the lower cassette 115 through the pickup rollers 116 and 117 into the main body 100 by the paper feed rollers 118 and 119 is transferred to the front end of the toner image by the registration roller 120 and the transfer paper. After being timed so as to coincide with the front end of the toner image, the toner image is supplied to the photosensitive drum 105 and the toner image is transferred by the transfer charger 110. After this transfer, the transfer paper is separated from the photosensitive drum 105 by the separation charging device 111, guided to the fixing device 122 by the conveying belt 121, and fixed by pressing and heating.
3 is discharged to the outside of the main body 100. The surface of the photosensitive drum 105 is cleaned by the cleaning device 112. Further, the main body 100 is equipped with a deck 124 that can store, for example, 4000 transfer sheets.
The lifter 125 of the deck 124 ascends according to the amount of transfer paper so that the transfer paper always contacts the paper feed roller 126.

Further, in FIG. 3, 127 is a paper discharge flapper, which is a double-sided recording side or a multiple recording side and a discharge side (sorter 3).
00) is switched. The transfer sheet sent from the discharge roller 123 is switched to the double-sided recording side or the multiplex recording side by the discharge flapper 127. Also, 12
A lower conveyance path 8 guides the transfer paper sent from the discharge roller 123 to the re-feed tray 130 by reversing the transfer paper via the reversing path 129.

Reference numeral 131 denotes a multiple flapper for switching between double-sided recording and multiple recording paths. By tilting this flapper to the left, the transfer paper is directly guided to the lower conveyance path 128 without passing through the reversing path 129. A paper feed roller 132 feeds the transfer paper to the photosensitive drum 105 side through a path 133. 134 is disposed in the vicinity of the paper discharge flapper 127,
This is a discharge roller that discharges the transfer sheet switched to the discharge side by the discharge flapper 127 to the outside of the machine.

During double-sided recording (double-sided copying) or multiplex recording (multiplex copying), the ejected flapper 127 is raised and the recorded (copied) transfer paper is turned over via the paths 129 and 128. It is stored in the paper feed tray 130. This time,
When recording on both sides, tilt the multiple flapper 131 to the right,
In addition, the multiple flapper 131 is tilted leftward during multiple recording. When performing back side recording or multiplex recording next time,
The transfer sheets stored in the re-feed tray 130 are guided one by one from the bottom to the registration rollers 120 of the main body 100 via the path 133 by the sheet feed roller 132.

When the transfer sheet is reversed and discharged from the main body 100, the discharge flapper 127 is raised and the multiple flapper 131 is tilted to the right to reverse the recorded transfer sheet to the reverse path 1.
29, and the trailing edge of the transfer paper is the first feed roller 14
After passing 0, the reversing roller 142 conveys the transfer sheet to the second roller 141 side, and the discharge roller 134 turns the transfer sheet over and discharges it outside the machine. Note that reference numeral 150 is a multi-bypass tray, and 210 is a reservation tray.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the detailed arrangement of the control means 800 and the communication control means 900 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 801 is a CPU for controlling the main body 100, 802 is a read-only memory (ROM) for storing control procedures (control programs) for the main body 100, and a bus is provided according to the control procedure stored in the ROM 802 of the CPU 801. It controls each constituent device connected via. Further, reference numeral 803 denotes a random access memory (RAM) which is a main storage device used as a storage unit for storing display data externally input by a communication process, a working storage area, and the like. 804 is an input / output port, and 80
5 is an interface, 806 is an R with backup function
The AM stores the data necessary for the image forming operation.

Further, the CPU 801 executes control of the image forming apparatus main body 100, control of communication with the outside, display management control of display data, etc. by a control program stored in the ROM 802.

Further, the input / output port 804 inputs the output of the control signal of the CPU 801 to the load of the main motor 113 and the like and the signal of the fixing device 122 and the like to the CPU 801. Further, reference numeral 900 is a communication control means of the public line 908, and the CPU 901 controls the communication control means 900. Reference numeral 904 is an input / output port, and 909 is a RAM.

The communication control means 900 is connected to the control means 800 of the main body 100 by an interface 90 such as RS-232C.
7 and the data transfer from the image forming apparatus is performed via the interface 907 when a data transfer request is made, the transfer data is temporarily held in the RAM 902 provided in the communication control means 900. After the data transfer from the image forming apparatus is completed, the NCU 906 is controlled to establish a communication line connection with the outside, and after the line connection, the data is transferred to the outside through the modem 905 and the NCU 906. Also, when data is transferred from the outside,
The transfer data is temporarily stored in the RAM 903, and data is transferred to the image forming apparatus via the interface 907 in response to a request from the image forming apparatus. The data referred to here is the data stored in the main body 100.
In addition, the data transfer request means a case where the image forming apparatus control abnormality or paper jam frequently occurs on the main body 100 side, or the request occurs when the regular report time comes, and a data request from an external management side. It may occur.

The control means 800 and the communication control means 900 are connected via the interfaces 805 and 907,
Control data is exchanged between the control means 800 of the main body 100 and the communication control means 900 of the public line 908.

In the image forming apparatus thus constructed, the inspection mode is designated by a combination of the input means (in this embodiment, the service switch inside the main body, but a key of the operation unit, for example, an asterisk (*) key). A transfer information inspection request from the first control means 800 and the second control means (communication control means) based on the control information stored in the storage means (ROM 802). 900), the inspection mode communication control is started with the first control means and the first control means using the functional means of the image forming apparatus without connecting any external measuring device to the image forming apparatus main body 100. It is possible to start the inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing with the second control means.

In the inspection mode communication control, the first control means (control means 800) detects a transfer information inspection request from the input means, and the predetermined control information is stored in the storage means (ROM 802). Of the inspection data, and the second control means (communication control means 900) transfers the inspection data of the first
Communication control for transferring the inspection data received from the control means to the first control means (according to the control procedure shown in FIGS. 10 to 12 described later), and therefore, based on the control information stored in the storage means. The inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the first control means and the second control means can be surely performed.

Further, in the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and Second control means (communication control means 90
0) is communication control for transferring the encrypted data encrypted based on the inspection data received from the first control unit (control unit 800) to the first control unit (see FIG. 13 described later).
According to the control procedure shown in (1), the inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the first control means and the second control means based on the control information stored in the storage means is kept confidential. It becomes possible to perform surely.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and the comparison result is displayed by the display means ( Since it is displayed on the LCD display 701), it is possible to display the inspection result on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means. Since the comparison result is displayed on the display means (on the LCD display 701), the inspection result can be displayed on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

FIG. 5 is a plan view for explaining the structure of the operation unit 600 arranged on the upper surface of the main body 100 shown in FIG. 3, and is mainly used in the image forming mode selection processing.

In the figure, 601 is an asterisk (*)
A key, which is pressed by an operator (user) in a setting mode such as setting a binding margin amount or setting a size for erasing a document frame. 627 is a cursor key (up / down key)
This is pressed when selecting a setting item in the setting mode. An OK key 628 is pressed to confirm the setting item in the setting mode. An all reset key 606 is pressed when returning to the standard mode. The all reset key 606 is also pressed when returning from the auto shutoff state to the standard mode. 604 is clear /
The stop key functions as a clear key during standby (standby) and as a stop key during image recording.
The clear / stop key 604 is also used when releasing the set number of copies.

The clear / stop key 604 is also pressed when interrupting continuous copying, and the copying operation is stopped after the copying at the time of pressing is completed. Reference numeral 605 is a copy key. A numeric keypad 603 is pressed when setting the number of copies. It is also pressed when setting the asterisk (*) mode.

A memory key 619 can be used to register the mode that the user frequently uses. Here, M1
It is configured so that four modes of M4 to M4 can be registered. Image forming density keys 611 and 612 are pressed when manually adjusting the image forming density. An AE key 613 is pressed when the image forming density is automatically adjusted according to the original density, or when the AE (automatic density adjustment) is canceled and the density adjustment is switched to manual (manual). 60
Reference numeral 7 denotes a copy paper selection key, which is an upper cassette 114,
It is pressed when selecting the lower cassette 115, the deck 124, and the multi-bypass tray 150.

When the copy paper selection key 607 is pressed while the original is placed on the RDF 200, automatic paper cassette selection (APS) is selected and a cassette having the same size as the original is automatically selected. Reference numeral 610 denotes a unity size key, which is pressed when forming an image of the same size (actual size).

Reference numeral 616 denotes an automatic scaling key, which automatically reduces the size of the original image in accordance with the designated transfer paper size.
It is pressed when specifying enlargement. Reference numeral 626 denotes a double-sided key, which is pressed when performing double-sided recording from a single-sided original, double-sided recording from a double-sided original, or single-sided recording from a double-sided original.

A binding margin key 625 can create a binding margin of a designated length on the left side of the transfer paper. Reference numeral 624 is a photographic key, which is pressed when an image is formed on a photographic document. Reference numeral 623 denotes a multiple key, which is pressed when an image is created (combined) from the two originals on the same surface of the transfer paper. 62
Reference numeral 0 is a document frame erasing key, which is pressed when the user erases the frame of a standard size document, and the size at that time is set by an asterisk (*) 601. A sheet frame erasing key 621 is pressed when erasing the document frame in accordance with the copy paper size. Zoom keys 617 and 618 are provided.

Reference numeral 629 is a cover mode setting key, which is pressed when the front and back covers are created and the slip sheet is inserted. 6
A page continuous copy key 30 is pressed to continuously copy right and left of a two-page spread book or a half-size original. 614
Is a paper discharge method selection key for selecting the staple sort, sort, and group discharge methods. When the stapled sorter is connected to the paper after recording, the staple sort, sort, and group modes are selected or selected. You can cancel the selection mode. Reference numeral 631 denotes a reservation key, which is pressed when starting the setting of the copy mode for the reserved document placed on the reservation tray 210 and when canceling the reservation setting.

A reservation setting key 632 is used as a confirmation key when the reservation mode is set. Reference numeral 633 is a guide key, which is used when displaying explanations of functions corresponding to various keys on the message display.

Reference numeral 701 denotes an LCD (liquid crystal) type message display (LC) for displaying information related to image formation.
D display device), which displays characters and figures with 96 × 192 dots. For example, the number of images to be formed set with the ten key 603, the fixed size scaling keys 608 and 609, the same size key 610, the copy magnification set with the zoom keys 617 and 618, the paper size selected with the copy paper selection key 607, and the state of the main body 100 are shown. Displays messages, guide messages that show operating procedures, and other settings for various modes. 704
Is an AE display, which lights up when AE (automatic density adjustment) is selected by the AE key 613.

Reference numeral 709 denotes a preheat indicator, which lights up in the preheat state. A message display key 640 is pressed when instructing the display of the externally input display data. A folding key 615 is pressed when setting the folding mode. Reference numeral 634 is an interrupt key, and 635 is an ID key.

When the RDF 200 is used in the standard mode, the number of images to be formed is 1, the density AE mode, automatic paper selection, normal size, single-sided image formation to single-sided image formation. In the standard mode when the RDF 200 is not used, the number of images to be formed is one, the density is manual, the same size, and one-sided image formation is performed from one-sided original. The difference between when the RDF 200 is used and when it is not used is determined by whether or not a document is set on the RDF 200.

The main body control operation after the power is turned on in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of the main body control procedure after the power is turned on in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (9) indicate each step.

When the power of the main body 100 is turned on, the CPU
801 starts the main body control program stored in the ROM 802, first checks the write / read function of the RAM 803 (1), and if normal, the I / O port 80
4, initialize the interface 805 (2),
(3). Next, the main task and communication task are activated (4) and (5). On the other hand, if the RAM 803 is not normal, error processing is executed (9).

The main task continues the operation until the power of the CPU 801 is cut off (6), and controls all matters related to the image forming operation (7).

On the other hand, the communication task is the communication control means 900.
The data communication between the CPU 901 inside the main body 100 and the CPU 801 inside the main body 100 is controlled, and its execution is performed in parallel with the main task (8). The communication task is always CP
Data relating to the image forming operation is transmitted to and received from the U901. The data related to the image forming operation includes, for example, the temperature control data of the fixing device 122 and the charger 1.
The voltage applied to 06, the loop amount of the transfer paper formed in front of the registration roller, the paper feed amount by the paper feed roller 126, and the like. On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the power is off, the process ends.

The function inspection processing operation of the communication control means 900 shown in FIG. 2 will be described below with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 shows the communication control means 900 shown in FIG.
5 is a flowchart showing an example of a function inspection processing procedure of FIG. Note that (1) to (9) indicate each step.

First, it is determined whether or not the operator has pressed a service switch (not shown) inside the main body 100 (1), and if NO is determined, a normal image forming operation is executed (9). , The process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the service switch has been pressed, when a specific password is entered using the keys of the operation unit, the password is analyzed (2) and the main body is analyzed. 100 is communication control means 900
Set the inspection mode of. Here, it is determined whether the inspection mode is designated (3), and in the inspection mode, the flag F
"1" is substituted for 1 (4), and a message required for the inspection mode is displayed on the LCD display 701 (5). On the other hand, in the case of NO in step (3), other service modes are executed (8), and the process is ended.

Next, until the operator uses the keys to specify the end of the inspection mode (6), a message corresponding to the inspection contents at that time is displayed on the LCD display 701, and the operator uses the keys. When the end of the inspection mode is designated, "1" is assigned to the flag F1 for the inspection mode (7), and the process is ended. These series of procedures are executed by the main task described above.

In this way, the state in which the flag F1 for the inspection mode is "1" is monitored in the communication task, and the inspection mode processing shown in FIG. 8 described later is started.

FIG. 8 is a flow chart showing an example of a detailed procedure of the first main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention, which is executed by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. Note that (1) to (15) indicate each step.

As described above, it is determined whether the flag F1 is "1" (1), and if it is determined to be NO, the communication task executed by the CPU 801 is the CPU 9
Data necessary for the image forming operation is transmitted and received to and from 01 (14), the inspection mode end command is transferred to the CPU 901 (13), and the process is ended.

On the other hand, the flag F1 is determined by the determination in step (1).
When it is determined that has changed to “1”, the communication task executes a series of operations for inspecting the communication control means 900.

First, the specific data string S stored in the ROM 802 is sequentially transferred to the CPU 901 (2) and (3) until the data string end code is sent. In this embodiment, which data string is transferred is
It is configured to be specified by the operator using the key.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the data string end code has been sent, CP
Wait until the reception completion code is sent from U901. At the same time, after the timer T1 is initialized (4), the timer T1 is counted up at constant time intervals (5). Next, it is determined whether the value to be counted up is equal to or less than a predetermined value N (6) or (7). If the counter value reaches the predetermined value without receiving the reception completion code, error processing is performed. (15). In this embodiment, the CPU
901 and CPU801 connection means, or CPU90
Since there is a possibility that 1 is out of order, L
The information is displayed on the CD display 701.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (6) that the reception completion code is received when the count-up value is less than or equal to the predetermined value, 1-byte data sent from the CPU 901, for example, a self-diagnosis data string. Are sequentially stored in the RAM 803 until the transfer end code is received (8)-
(10).

When the transfer end code is received,
The self-diagnosis data stored in the RAM 803 is analyzed and the result is displayed on the LCD display 701 (11).

Then, the above-mentioned processing is repeated until the inspection mode is canceled by the user, so that step (1)
When the inspection mode is canceled by the user, the process proceeds to step (13) to issue the inspection mode cancellation command (inspection mode end command) stored in the ROM 803 to the CPU 9
01, and the process ends.

The communication processing operation on the communication control means 900 side will be described below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a first communication processing procedure on the communication control means 900 side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. In addition, (1) to (10) indicate each step, and the CPU 901 illustrated in FIG.
It is executed based on the control program stored in 2.

When the power is turned on, the 1-byte data string S transferred from the CPU 801 is received (1), and the data stored in the first byte of the received data string S is inspected for the subsequent data string. It is determined whether or not it is a mode command (2), and if NO, normal communication processing with the CPU 801 and an external device is started (10).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that the command is the inspection mode command, all the data strings S are received, and the received data string S is stored in the RAM 903 until the transfer end code is received. (3) to (5).

When the transfer completion code is received, the reception completion code is transferred to the CPU 801 (6). Then CP
The U901 stops the communication with the external device and the normal communication operation with the CPU 801 (7).

Next, the CPU 901 executes different operations depending on the contents of the data string S stored in the RAM 903. For example, when the data string S is a command for executing the inspection of the RAM 903, the CPU 901 reads R
The access error of the RAM 903 is detected by a generally adopted method in which a specific value is written in each address of the specified address area of the AM903, the value of the address is read immediately after that, and the value is compared with the written value. It is checked to determine whether the function of each unit in the communication control unit 900 is in a normal state (8), the determination result is transferred to the CPU 801 (9), and the process returns to step (1).

In this way, the CPU 801 of the main body 100
Transfers a command data string for causing the CPU 901 to execute an inspection of each unit in the communication control means 900 in the inspection mode, and displays the content of the command execution result transferred from the CPU 901 on the LCD display 701. indicate.

When the CPU 901 receives the inspection mode release command, the image forming operation between the CPU 901 and the CPU 801 and between the CPU 901 and an external device is restored.

In the above embodiment, the case where the operation of each unit of the communication control means 900 is self-diagnosed based on the inspection mode instruction from the CPU 801 and the result is notified to the CPU 801 has been described. A description will be given of the processing in the case of performing an echo back test on the communication control means 900. In the echo back test in this embodiment, the main body CPU 801 transmits a specific data string to the communication control means 900, and the data string returned from the communication control means 900 thereafter matches the transmitted data string. This is a test for determining whether or not the function of the communication control means 900 is normal when the data string transmitted and the data string received by the test match. This will be described in detail below with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a flow chart showing an example of the detailed procedure of the second main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It should be noted that (1) to (15) indicate respective steps, which are executed by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. 4 based on the control program stored in the ROM 902.

After the operator specifies the inspection mode, CP
The procedure until the U801 operates in the inspection mode is the same as in the above-described embodiment, and it is determined whether the flag F1 is "1" (1), and if NO is determined, the CP
The communication task executed by the U801 transmits / receives data necessary for the image forming operation to / from the CPU 901 (1
4).

On the other hand, the flag F1 is determined by the judgment in step (1).
When it is determined that has changed to “1”, the communication task executes a series of operations for inspecting the communication control means 900.

When the main body 100 shifts to the inspection mode, L
The CD display 101 displays options for the operator to specify which part of the communication control means 900 the echo back test should be performed on (2). In this case,
Specify the RAM test item using the keys on the operation panel, and
When the item is selected (3), the RAM inspection command data sequence S1 stored in the ROM 802 is transferred to the CPU 901 (4).

When the transfer is completed, the timer T1 is initialized and then activated until the reception completion code is sent from the CPU 901, and at the same time, after the timer T1 is initialized (5), the timer T1 is kept for a predetermined time. Count up at intervals (6). Next, it is judged whether the value to be counted up is less than or equal to a predetermined value N (7), (8), and if the counter value reaches the predetermined value without receiving the reception completion code, an error occurs. Processing is performed (15).

In this case, the CPU 901 and the CPU 801
Since there is a possibility that the connection means or the CPU 901 is out of order, the fact is displayed on the LCD display 701.

On the other hand, when the reception completion code is received in step (8), the CPU 901 stores the data string S2 sent from the CPU 100 in the RAM 803 until the transfer end code is stored (9), (10). ).

Then, the CPU 801 compares the data sequence S1 and the data sequence S2 (11), and if they are determined to be the same, the RAM 903 is normally accessed in the communication control means 900. If it is determined that it is present, the fact (memory access is normal) is displayed on the LCD display 701 (12), and the process returns to step (1).

On the other hand, if it is not determined in step (11) that the data string S1 and the data string S2 are the same, access to the RAM 903 is made by the communication control means 900.
It is determined that the operation is not normally performed in the area, and the fact (memory access is impossible) is displayed on the LCD display 701 (1
3) Return to step (1).

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of the second communication processing procedure on the communication control means 900 side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (11) indicate the respective steps, and the CPU 901 shown in FIG.
It is executed based on the control program stored in 02.

When the power is turned on, the 1-byte data string S transferred from the CPU 801 is received (1), and the data stored in the first byte of the received data string S is inspected for the subsequent data strings. It is determined whether or not it is a mode command (2), and if NO, normal communication processing with the CPU 801 and an external device is started (11).

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (2) that it is the inspection mode command, the received data string S is stored in the RAM 903 until all the data strings S are received and the transfer end code is received. (3) to (5). When the transfer completion code is received, the reception completion code is sent to the CPU 80.
1 (6), and then the CPU 901 stops the communication with the external device and the normal communication operation with the CPU 801 (7).

Next, the CPU 901 reads out the data string S1 stored in the RAM 903 in the order transferred from the CPU 801 (8), and transfers it to the CPU 801 until the transfer end code is read out (9), (10).

In this way, the CPU 801 of the main body 100
In the inspection mode, the CPU 901 transfers the data string for executing the inspection of each unit in the communication control means 900, and the data string returned from the CPU 901 is already transferred and stored. It is used as a judgment factor for the function check by sequentially comparing with the column.

When the CPU 901 receives the inspection mode release command from the CPU 801, the CPU 901 and the CP 901
The data transmission / reception operation relating to the image forming operation between the U801 and the CPU 901 and the external device is restored.

In the above embodiment, a case has been described in which specific data are directly transferred to each other to determine the communication state between the main body 100 and the communication control means 900, and the data transfer state and the like are determined. CPU801 and CPU
Transfer the encrypted command data string to and from 901,
The state of the communication control means 900 will be described later with reference to FIGS.
The determination may be made according to the flowchart shown in FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flow chart showing an example of the detailed procedure of the third main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It should be noted that (1) to (15) indicate respective steps, which are executed by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. 4 based on the control program stored in the ROM 902.

After the operator specifies the inspection mode, the CP
The procedure until the U801 operates in the inspection mode is the same as in the above-described embodiment, and it is determined whether the flag F1 is "1" (1), and if NO is determined, the CP
The communication task executed by the U801 transmits / receives data necessary for the image forming operation to / from the CPU 901 (1
4).

On the other hand, the flag F1 is determined in step (1).
When it is determined that has changed to “1”, the communication task executes a series of operations for inspecting the communication control means 900.

When the main body 100 shifts to the inspection mode, first, the CPU 801 stores in the ROM 802,
The echo back inspection command data string S1 is sent to the CPU 90.
Transfer to 1 (2).

When the transfer is completed (3), the CPU 901
Until the reception completion code is sent from the device, the timer T1 is initialized and then started, and at the same time, after the timer T1 is initialized (4), the timer T1 is counted up at a constant time interval (5). Next, it is judged whether the value to be counted up is less than or equal to a predetermined value N (6), (7), and if the counter value reaches the predetermined value without receiving the reception completion code, an error occurs. Processing is performed (15).

In this case, the CPU 901 and the CPU 801
Since there is a possibility that the connection means or the CPU 901 is out of order, the fact is displayed on the LCD display 701.

On the other hand, when the reception completion code is received in step (7), the CPU 801 stores the data string S2 sent from the CPU 901 in the RAM 803 until the transfer end code is stored (8), (9). ).

Then, the CPU 801 codes the data string S2 byte by byte and stores it as a data string S3 in another area of the RAM 803 (10).

Then, it is judged whether the data string S3 and the data string S1 are the same (11). If they can be judged to be the same, the RAM 903 is normally accessed in the communication control means 900. It is determined that it is present, that effect (memory access normal) is displayed on the LCD display 701 (12), and the process returns to step (1).

On the other hand, when it is not determined in step (11) that the data string S3 and the data string S1 are the same, access to the RAM 903 is performed by the communication control means 900.
It is determined that the operation is not normally performed in the area, and the fact (memory access is impossible) is displayed on the LCD display 701 (1
3) Return to step (1).

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third communication processing procedure on the communication control means 900 side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. Note that (1) to (9) indicate the respective steps, and the CPU 901 shown in FIG.
It is executed based on the control program stored in 2.

When the power is turned on, the 1-byte data string S transferred from the CPU 801 is received (1), and the data stored in the first byte of the received data string S is checked for the subsequent data string. Whether it is a mode command or not is determined (2), and if NO, normal communication processing with the CPU 801 and an external device is started (9). That is, as described above, after the power is turned on, communication with the external device through the external line and communication with the CPU 801 on the main body side are always performed through the interface 805.

On the other hand, when it is determined in step (2) that the command is the inspection mode command, the CPU 901 stops the communication with the external device and the normal communication operation with the CPU 901 (3).

In the inspection mode, the 1-byte data transferred from the CPU 801 is received (4) and it is determined whether the received data is the transfer end code (5). If NO, the CPU 901 immediately executes a predetermined procedure. It is encrypted according to (6) and transferred to the CPU 801 until the transfer end code is received (7), and step (4)
Return to.

On the other hand, if the judgment in step (5) is NO, the reception completion code is transferred to the CPU 801 (8) and the process is terminated.

On the other hand, in step (5), when the CPU 901 receives the inspection mode release command from the CPU 801, the CPU 901 and the CPU 801 and the CPU 9
The data transmission / reception operation relating to the image forming operation between 01 and the external device is restored.

As described above, in the above embodiment, the image forming means, the display means for displaying the information about the image forming operation, the input means for inputting the information about the image forming operation, the image forming means and the display means. A first control means for controlling the input means, a second control means for controlling a data transmission / reception operation with an external device and a data transmission / reception operation with the first control means, Interface means for transmitting and receiving data between the second control means and an external device, connection means for connecting the first control means and the second control means, the connection means and the second control A transmission / reception means for transmitting / receiving control data of the first control means between the first control means and an external device via the means and the interface means, and the data is transferred from the first control means to the second control means. Ru In an image forming apparatus having a storage unit for storing a predetermined instruction group, for example, an image forming apparatus having the configuration shown in FIG. 4, when the communication function inspection mode is designated by the input unit, the transmission / reception unit is used. Since the transmission / reception operation being performed is stopped and the predetermined command group stored in the storage unit is sequentially transferred to the second control unit, the data transfer between the first control unit and the second control unit. It is possible to self-diagnose the condition.

The command group is communicated from the mode in which the second control means transmits / receives the control data of the first control means between the first control means and the external device via the interface means. A command for switching to the function inspection mode, at least 1-byte data, and the second control unit from the communication function inspection mode to the control data of the first control unit between the first control unit and the external device via the interface unit. Since the instruction for switching to the mode for transmitting and receiving is included, a series of operation mode switching and communication inspection processing can be automatically processed by an inspection start request instruction from the input means.

Further, as described above, means for returning the instruction group transferred from the first control means to the second control means in the order of transfer from the second control means to the first control means. Second storage means for storing the instruction groups returned from the second control means in the order in which they are returned, and the instruction groups in the second storage means and the first storage means. Since it is equipped with a comparison means for comparing with the instruction group
If the content and order of the instruction group stored in the storage means is the same as the instruction group stored in the first storage means, a message to that effect is displayed on the display means. Since that is displayed on the LCD display 701, the communication inspection result can be confirmed on the LCD display 701.

Further, the encryption means for encrypting the instruction group transferred to the second control means, and the encrypted instruction group are
And a decoding means for decoding the returned instruction group, and a means for comparing the instruction group decoded by the decoding means with the instruction group stored in the first storage means. If the instruction group decoded by the decoding means is the same as the instruction group stored in the first storage means, the LCD display 7
01, and if they are not the same, LC
Since it is displayed on the D display 701, the communication inspection result can be confirmed on the LCD display 701 while maintaining confidentiality during the communication processing.

[0121]

As described above, according to the present invention,
Since the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected and the inspection mode communication control between the first control means and the second control means is started based on the control information stored in the storage means, The inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the first control means and the second control means is started using the functional means of the image forming apparatus without connecting any external measuring device to the image forming apparatus. can do.

In the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and the second control Since the control means performs the communication control for transferring the inspection data received from the first control means to the first control means, the first control means and the second control means based on the control information stored in the storage means. The inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing with the control means can be surely performed.

Further, in the inspection mode communication control, the transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, the first control means transfers the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and the second control information is transmitted. The control means first encrypts the encrypted data encrypted based on the inspection data received from the first control means.
Since the communication control is transferred to the control means, the inspection mode communication control for diagnosing the communication processing between the first control means and the second control means based on the control information stored in the storage means maintains confidentiality. It can be performed reliably in the state where

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and displays the comparison result on the display means. Since it is displayed, the inspection result can be displayed on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

Further, the first control means compares the inspection data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means. Since the comparison result is displayed on the display means, the inspection result can be displayed on the existing display means without providing any new result display means.

Therefore, the communication state between the first control means for controlling the main body and the second control means for controlling the communication between the external device and the main body can be inexpensively and easily self-diagnosed.

[Brief description of drawings]

FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

3 is a cross-sectional view illustrating a hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus main body illustrated in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a control unit and a communication control unit shown in FIG.

5 is a plan view illustrating a configuration of an operation unit arranged on the upper surface of the main body shown in FIG.

FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a main body control procedure after power is turned on in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

7 is a flowchart showing an example of a function inspection processing procedure of the communication control means shown in FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed procedure of a first main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a first communication processing procedure on the communication control means side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed procedure of a second main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing an example of a second communication processing procedure on the communication control means side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing an example of a detailed procedure of a third main body side communication task in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing an example of a third communication processing procedure on the communication control means side in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 800 control means 801 CPU 802 ROM 805 interface 806 RAM 900 communication control means 901 CPU 907 interface 906 NCU

─────────────────────────────────────────────────── ─── Continuation of the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification code Office reference number FI technical display location H04N 1/00 106 B 1/32 J 7232-5C 1/44 7232-5C

Claims (5)

[Claims] 1. An image forming unit, and a display unit for displaying information on an image forming operation of the image forming unit,
Input means for inputting information on the image forming operation, first control means for controlling the image forming means, the display means, and the input means, data transmission / reception operation with an external device, and the first control means. An image forming apparatus having a second control means for controlling a data transmission / reception operation between the first control means and the second control means, the control information for inspecting a communication state between the first control means and the second control means. Is provided, and a transfer information inspection request from the input means is detected, and between the first control means and the second control means based on the control information stored in the storage means. An image forming apparatus characterized by starting inspection mode communication control. 2. The inspection mode communication control detects a transfer information inspection request from the input means, the first control means transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the second control unit is a communication control that transfers the inspection data received from the first control unit to the first control unit. 3. The inspection mode communication control detects a transfer information inspection request from an input unit, the first control unit transfers predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage unit, and 2. The second control means is communication control for transferring to the first control means encrypted data encrypted based on the inspection data received from the first control means. Image forming device. 4. The first control means compares the inspection data returned from the second control means with predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means, and displays the comparison result on the display means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image is displayed. 5. The first control means compares the inspection data obtained by decrypting the encrypted data returned from the second control means with the predetermined inspection data in the control information stored in the storage means. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the comparison result is displayed on a display unit.