JP3539376B2 - Facsimile machine - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
TECHNICAL FIELD OF THE INVENTION
The present invention uses the remote maintenance modeToThe present invention relates to a facsimile apparatus provided, and more particularly, to a facsimile apparatus that executes a remote maintenance mode according to a telephone number of a calling device.
[0002]
[Prior art]
In recent years, facsimile machines have become multifunctional, and as a result, the setting items of the machines have become very large and complicated. If these setting items are set to wrong values, the facsimile machine cannot perform a desired operation. Further, the facsimile apparatus is used by being connected to a telephone line. The usage state, that is, the line connection state, power supply, ambient temperature, humidity, etc., differs for each user. For this reason, the facsimile machine may not operate normally even though the setting items are set correctly. In this case, it is necessary to change the setting of the facsimile machine according to the use situation (the installation state of the machine). Further, a part of the facsimile machine may fail and thus may not operate normally.
[0003]
The causes of the normal operation of the facsimile apparatus include setting errors and failures, and it is difficult for the user to handle all of them. Therefore, in such a case, maintenance by a specialized service person is required.
[0004]
In order to receive maintenance by a serviceman, a facsimile machine that does not operate normally must be sent to a service center to have the serviceman perform the maintenance, or the serviceman must go directly to perform the maintenance. However, when a facsimile machine is sent, there is a problem that it takes time and cost to transport the machine and that the facsimile machine cannot be used until the machine is returned.
[0005]
On the other hand, when the service person goes directly to the office, there is a problem in that the service cost is high, so even a simple change in the settings increases the maintenance cost. In addition, in the case of a component failure, if the failed component is not brought in during the first business trip, the failed component must be ordered and the business trip must be performed again, resulting in a further increase in maintenance costs. Was.
[0006]
For this reason, when receiving a maintenance request from a user, a service person listens to the situation in detail by telephone, decides on the response in advance, and then goes to the customer. However, there is a limit to the content that can be queried to a user who does not have specialized knowledge of the facsimile machine. Therefore, it was not possible to inquire about complicated setting conditions or request test communication.
[0007]
Therefore, as described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-59825, a remote maintenance method for investigating the usage status of a user's facsimile machine using a facsimile machine installed in a service center has been invented. In this method, a facsimile machine on the user side is provided with a storage means capable of storing a plurality of communication results for a plurality of communication results, and a plurality of communication results are stored. When the user requests maintenance at the service center, the facsimile machine at the service center calls the user side device, performs a predetermined operation, and transmits the communication result to the service center side device. The serviceman determines the status of the user device based on the transmitted data, and then performs appropriate maintenance.
[0008]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
In the remote maintenance described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 4-59825, even if the operation for calling the communication result from the user side device is kept secret, by performing a predetermined operation, it is possible to determine from any calling side device. But you can call the communication result. Therefore, there is a risk that the secret of the user is violated, which is not preferable for the user.
[0009]
In addition, there is information that cannot be obtained from the communication results alone, such as the model name, program version, and device setting values.If such information is needed for maintenance, a service person directly There was a problem that he had to go first. Furthermore, even if it is sufficient to simply change the settings of the user device, the service technician must go to the customer or teach the user how to change the settings in order to let the user change the settings. There was a problem.
[0010]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and a first object of the present invention is to provide a highly secure facsimile apparatus which executes a remote maintenance mode according to a telephone number of a calling apparatus. It is to be. The second object is that, in the remote maintenance mode, information other than the communication result (communication history) can be transmitted to the calling device, and its own setting can be made based on a command sent from the calling device. An object of the present invention is to provide a facsimile apparatus that can change the value.
[0011]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve this object, the facsimile apparatus according to claim 1 sets a maintenance unit capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes and a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance unit in response to a call from a calling device. Setting meansAnd a rewritable nonvolatile memoryPrepare,A facsimile apparatus that performs various operations based on setting values stored in a setting item area of the nonvolatile memory,The plurality of maintenance processes include a notification process of notifying the calling side device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine, and a process of notifying the information from the calling side device.The address of the nonvolatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is to be sent is stored and the value of the setting valueOf your facsimile machine based on the signal ofSaidAnd a change process for changing a set value, wherein the maintenance unit can execute the notification process and the change process during one maintenance mode set by the setting unit.
[0012]
In this configuration, when the maintenance mode is set by the setting unit in response to a call from the calling device, the maintenance unit performs the maintenance process during the mode. In particular, the maintenance process includes a notification process of notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine, and aThe address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueAnd changing the setting value of its own facsimile apparatus based on the signal of the above. The maintenance unit can execute the notification process and the changing process during the maintenance mode once set. . Therefore, for example, after executing the notification processing, the maintenance mode is temporarily terminated to open the communication line, and the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device to set the maintenance mode again, and the change is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0013]
Further, the facsimile apparatus according to claim 2 is a calling telephone number receiving means for receiving a telephone number of the calling apparatus sent from the exchange.And rewritable non-volatile memoryEquippedPerforms various operations based on the setting values stored in the setting item area of the nonvolatile memory.Facsimile machineAndStorage means for storing a predetermined telephone number, and determination for determining whether the telephone number of the calling device received by the calling telephone number receiving means matches the telephone number stored in the storage means Means, a maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes, and a setting means for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance means when the telephone number is determined to be coincident by the determination means. The maintenance process is a notification process of notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine, andThe address of the nonvolatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is to be sent is stored and the value of the setting valueOf your facsimile machine based on the signal ofSaidAnd a change process for changing a set value, wherein the maintenance unit can execute the notification process and the change process during one maintenance mode set by the setting unit.
[0014]
In this configuration, when the telephone number of the calling device is received by the calling telephone number receiving means, the determining means determines whether or not the telephone number matches the telephone number stored in the storage means. When it is determined that the telephone numbers match, a maintenance mode is set by the setting unit, and the maintenance process is executed by the maintenance unit during the mode. Accordingly, the maintenance mode is set when a call is made from the calling side device having the specific telephone number, so that the operation can easily be shifted to the maintenance mode without bothering the operator. In particular, the maintenance process includes a notification process of notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine, and aThe address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueAnd changing the setting value of its own facsimile apparatus based on the signal of the above. The maintenance unit can execute the notification process and the changing process during the maintenance mode once set. . Therefore, for example, after executing the notification processing, the maintenance mode is temporarily terminated to open the communication line, and the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device to set the maintenance mode again, and the change is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0015]
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 3 isIn addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 1 or 2,The information for the maintenance includes a model name, a program version, setting values of its own facsimile machine, communication history, and test data., At least your facsimile machine settingsIs included.
[0016]
In this configuration,In addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 1 or 2,During the set maintenance mode, first, by executing the notification processing, the model name, the program version, the set value of the own facsimile machine, the communication history, and the test data are set.For maintenance, including at least the settings of your own facsimile machineThe information is notified to the calling device, and the operator of the calling device that has confirmed the information can perform an operation of changing the setting value of the facsimile device as necessary by continuously performing the change process. .
[0017]
Further, the facsimile apparatus according to claim 4, a maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes, a setting means for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance means in response to a call from the calling device,Rewritable nonvolatile memory andEquippedPerforms various operations based on the setting values stored in the setting item area of the nonvolatile memory.Facsimile machineAndThe plurality of maintenance processes are performed by the calling device.The address of the nonvolatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is to be sent is stored and the value of the setting valueOf your facsimile machine based on the signal ofSaidChange processing for changing the setting value;Upon receiving the test communication command sent from the calling device, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.And a test process for executing a test, wherein during the one-time maintenance mode set by the setting unit, the maintenance unitChange processingAnd the test processing can be executed.
[0018]
In this configuration, when the maintenance mode is set by the setting unit in response to a call from the calling device, the maintenance unit performs the maintenance process during the mode. In particular, in the maintenance processing, the caller deviceThe address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueA changing process of changing the setting value of its own facsimile machine based on the signal ofWhen a test communication command sent from the calling device is received, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.A test process for executing a test is included, and the maintenance unit can execute the change process and the test process during the maintenance mode once set. Therefore, for example, after executing the change processing, once the maintenance mode is ended and the communication line is opened, the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device, the maintenance mode is set again, and the test is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0019]
A facsimile apparatus according to a fifth aspect of the present invention includes a calling-side telephone number receiving means for receiving a telephone number of the calling-side apparatus sent from the exchange., Rewritable nonvolatile memory andEquippedPerforms various operations based on the setting values stored in the setting item area of the nonvolatile memory.Facsimile machineAndStorage means for storing a predetermined telephone number, and determination for determining whether the telephone number of the calling device received by the calling telephone number receiving means matches the telephone number stored in the storage means Means, a maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes, and a setting means for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance means when the telephone number is determined to be coincident by the determination means. Is performed by the calling device.The address of the non-volatile memory where the setting value of the item whose setting is to be sent is stored and the value of the setting value to be changedOf your facsimile machine based on the signal ofSaidChange processing for changing the setting value;Upon receiving the test communication command sent from the calling device, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.And a test process for executing a test, wherein the maintenance unit is capable of executing the change process and the test process during the one-time maintenance mode set by the setting unit.
[0020]
In this configuration, when the telephone number of the calling device is received by the calling telephone number receiving means, the determining means determines whether or not the telephone number matches the telephone number stored in the storage means. When it is determined that the telephone numbers match, a maintenance mode is set by the setting unit, and the maintenance process is executed by the maintenance unit during the mode. Accordingly, the maintenance mode is set when a call is made from the calling side device having the specific telephone number, so that the operation can easily be shifted to the maintenance mode without bothering the operator. In particular, for the maintenance process,The address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueOf your facsimile machine based on the signal ofSaidChange processing for changing the setting value;When a test communication command sent from the calling device is received, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.A test process for executing a test is included, and the maintenance unit can execute the change process and the test process during the maintenance mode once set. Therefore, for example, after executing the change processing, once the maintenance mode is ended and the communication line is opened, the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device, the maintenance mode is set again, and the test is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0021]
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 6 isIn addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 4 or 5,The test processIs a test for once receiving a test chart sent from the calling device and transmitting the received test chart to the calling device.Is included.
[0022]
In this configuration,In addition to the function of the invention described in claim 4 or 5,In the test process,A test for once receiving a test chart sent from a calling device and transmitting the received test chart to the calling deviceCan be run.
[0023]
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 7 isIn addition to the configuration of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6,The maintenance unit receives a command transmitted from the calling device.,PreviousDuring multiple maintenance processesMaintenance processing according to the command received atExecute and receive the command until a command indicating the end of maintenance is received.SaidThe processing according to the command is sequentially executed.
[0024]
In this configuration,In addition to the operation of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6,During multiple maintenance processesAccording to the command received from the calling deviceMaintenance processMaintenance meansSince the maintenance mode is executed, the maintenance process according to the status of the facsimile machine can be easily executed. Further, once the maintenance mode is set, the maintenance unit operates until a command indicating the end of the maintenance is received. Can be executed continuously, so that the number of times the telephone line is closed can be reduced and the telephone charge to be charged can be reduced.
[0025]
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 8 isIn addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 7,The command is transmitted by a PB signal, and the maintenance unit transmits the PB signal transmitted from the calling device.Corresponds to the change processing described above.In this case, the PB signal sent from the calling device isThe address of the non-volatile memory where the set value of the item whose setting is changed is storedAnd information indicating a new set value.
[0026]
In this configuration,In addition to the effect of the invention described in claim 7,Commonly used in the field of communication, it is possible to send out reliably with a simple operation, and since the command is transmitted to the receiving side by a PB signal with few false detections, the maintenance means is The maintenance process can be executed accurately, and the maintenance means is provided with a PB signal.Corresponds to the change processing described above.In the case, the same PB signalThe address of the rewritable nonvolatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is changed is storedAnd processing as information indicating a new set value, it is not necessary to use a different signal format for changing the set value, and a configuration for detecting a signal of another format is not required, and the maintenance process is more efficiently performed. It can be performed.
[0027]
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 9 isIn addition to the configuration of the invention described in claim 8,The command includes a predetermined PB signal for terminating the change processing, the command is transmitted by a PB signal, includes a predetermined PB signal for terminating the change processing, and the maintenance unit is executing the change processing. When the predetermined PB signal is received, the change process is terminated, and the next PB signal transmitted from the calling device is waited for and processed as a command.Re-enter remote maintenance modeTo do.
[0028]
In this configuration,In addition to the function of the invention described in claim 8,When a predetermined PB signal is received during the execution of the change process, the maintenance unit considers that the transmission of the PB signal for changing the set value has ended, and processes the next PB signal as a new command.Re-enter remote maintenance modeTherefore, the maintenance mode can be reliably maintained even after the change processing is completed.
[0029]
BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the accompanying drawings. FIG. 1 shows an external perspective view of the facsimile machine 1. A handset 3 is attached to a side of the main body 2 of the facsimile machine 1. The receiver 3 is placed on a hook (not shown) provided on the main body 2 during a non-call, and is picked up from the hook during a call. The former is called an on-hook state, and the latter is called an off-hook state. An operation panel 4 having a plurality of buttons is provided on a front portion of the upper surface of the main body 2, and a liquid crystal display (LCD) 5 is provided on a left rear portion of the operation panel 4. The facsimile machine 1 is operated by pressing a button provided on the operation panel 4, and the operated state and operation procedure are displayed on the LCD 5.
[0030]
A document insertion port 6 is provided at the rear of the operation panel 4 and the LCD 5. An original to be transmitted by facsimile is inserted into the original insertion slot 6 with the original surface facing down, and after reading is performed, the original is ejected from an original exit 7 provided on the front side of the main body 2 and below the operation panel 4. Is done. A recording paper holder mounting portion 9 is provided at the rear of the document insertion slot 6, and a recording paper holder 10 capable of stacking and storing a plurality of recording papers is detachably mounted on the recording paper holder mounting portion 9. . The recording paper supplied from the recording paper holder 10 and used for printing is discharged from a recording paper discharge port 8 provided below the document discharge port 7.
[0031]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the facsimile machine 1. The facsimile device 1 includes a CPU 11, a ROM 12 and an EEPROM 13 as storage means, a RAM 14, an image memory 15, an audio LSI 17, a network control unit (hereinafter, referred to as "NCU") 19, a modem 20, a buffer 21, a scanner 22, An encoding unit 23, a decoding unit 24, a printer 25, an operation panel 4, and an amplifier 27 are provided, and these are connected via a bus line 30.
[0032]
The CPU 11 of the facsimile apparatus 1 controls each unit connected by the bus line 30 in accordance with various signals transmitted and received via the NCU 19 which performs line control, and executes facsimile operation, that is, data communication. The ROM 12 is a non-rewritable memory storing a control program 12a executed by the facsimile machine 1. The program of the flowchart shown in FIG. 4 is stored in the ROM 12. Further, the ROM 12 stores FAX numbers of two service centers, a FAX number 12b of a manufacturer's repair staff and a FAX number 12c of a dealer's repair staff. When the facsimile machine 1 is called from these service centers, the facsimile machine 1 shifts to the remote maintenance mode after the line is closed, regardless of the mode set, and receives an instruction from the calling device. Remote maintenance is performed.
[0033]
The EEPROM 13 is a rewritable non-volatile memory, and includes a setting item area 13a for storing each set value of the facsimile apparatus 1, and three local service store number areas 13b, 13c, and 13d. The facsimile machine 1 performs various operations based on the setting values stored in the setting item area 13a. Normally, the setting value of the setting item area 13a is changed by operating the operation panel 4 by the operator (user). However, in the remote maintenance mode, the setting value of the command sent from the calling device of the service center is changed. Changed based on
[0034]
In the local service store number areas 13b to 13d, up to three telephone numbers (FAX numbers) of service stores that perform remote maintenance of the facsimile machine 1 can be stored. When the facsimile machine 1 is called (called) from the device having the telephone number stored in the local service store number area 13b to 13d, the facsimile machine 1 shifts to the remote maintenance mode after the line is closed. The telephone numbers stored in the local service store number areas 13b to 13d are set at the time of shipment from the factory, at the time of delivery to the store, or at the customer site according to the sales area of the facsimile machine 1. By providing the local service store number areas 13b to 13d in the EEPROM 13, remote maintenance can be performed at a local service store other than the manufacturer or the sales company.
[0035]
The RAM 14 is a memory for temporarily storing various data when each operation of the facsimile apparatus 1 is executed, and the image memory 15 is a memory for storing a communication history, image data, and a bit image for printing. And a dynamic RAM (DRAM) which is an inexpensive large-capacity memory. In the remote maintenance mode, when an instruction to output a communication history is issued from the calling device, the communication history stored in the image memory 15 is transmitted to the calling device.
[0036]
The audio LSI 17 converts an analog audio signal received by the NCU 19 into a digital audio signal, converts a digital audio signal generated inside the facsimile apparatus 1 into an analog audio signal, and outputs the analog audio signal to the NCU 19. The modem 20 modulates and demodulates the image information and transmits the same, and transmits and receives various procedural signals for transmission control. The buffer 21 stores the encoded image information transmitted and received between the other party's facsimile machine. Is temporarily stored.
[0037]
The scanner 22 is for reading an image from a document inserted in the document insertion slot 6, and the encoding unit 23 is for encoding an image read by the scanner 22. The decoding unit 24 reads out the received image data stored in the buffer 21 or the image memory 15 and decodes the received image data. The decoded data is printed on a recording sheet by the printer 25. The operation panel 4 is used by an operator (user) to perform various operations when setting the facsimile apparatus 1 and the like. A speaker 28 is connected to the amplifier 27, and outputs a ringing tone and the like from the speaker 28.
[0038]
The facsimile apparatus 1 thus configured is connected to a telephone line 31 via the NCU 19. This telephone line 31 is connected to an exchange 29 of the facsimile machine 1, and this exchange 29 is connected to an exchange on the calling side via a telephone line 32, and further connected to an originating apparatus via the telephone line. ing.
[0039]
Next, with reference to FIG. 3, a description will be given of a maintenance command sent from the calling device in the remote maintenance mode and its contents. There are ten types of maintenance commands, and these commands are transmitted by a PB signal from a calling device installed in a service center or the like. When these commands are sent from the calling device, the user-side facsimile device 1 (the called device) sends the information specified by the command or the execution of the command, and the resulting information to the calling device. Send.
[0040]
“00” of the PB signal is a model name notification command 40, and “01” is a program version notification command 41. By executing these two commands, the calling device can recognize the model name of the facsimile device 1 to be maintained and the program installed in the device. “09” of the PB signal is a facsimile communication history notification command 42, which allows the calling device to grasp the latest communication status of the user facsimile device 1.
[0041]
“10” of the PB signal is a FAX setting status notification command 43, which allows the calling device to recognize how the user facsimile device 1 is set. “11” of the PB signal is a FAX setting change command 44. When the FAX setting status notification command 43 is executed and the setting value is found to be incomplete, the FAX setting change command 44 is used to change the incomplete setting value from the calling device. . When the facsimile setting change command 44 is executed, the called user's facsimile machine 1 is shifted to a set value change mode in the remote maintenance mode. In the setting value change mode, the address and value of the item whose setting is to be changed are transmitted from the calling device by a PB signal, and the setting value of the facsimile device 1 is changed based on the transmitted data. The set value change mode is ended by executing “99” of the PB signal, and after the end, the mode is returned to the remote maintenance mode.
[0042]
The PB signal “19” is a FAX self-diagnosis notification command 45. When this command 45 is executed, the user-side facsimile machine 1 executes a self-test of each unit and transmits the result to the calling-side device. . With this command 45, the calling apparatus can recognize whether or not each unit of the user-side facsimile apparatus 1 has an abnormality. “90” and “91” of the PB signal are the test communication commands 46 and 47. The user-side facsimile apparatus 1 has two test charts. When these commands 46 and 47 are executed, the test chart of the executed command is transmitted to the calling-side apparatus. The calling device can recognize the transmission state of the user-side facsimile device 1 by these commands 46 and 47. “92” of the PB signal is the test reception command 48. When this command 48 is executed, the user-side facsimile machine 1 once receives the test chart transmitted from the calling side device, and transmits the result information at the time of reception and the received test chart to the calling side device. I do. If the result of the test reception command 48 is determined by adding the results of the test communication commands 46 and 47 described above, the calling apparatus can recognize the reception state of the user facsimile apparatus 1. The data received by the test reception command 48 is simply stored in the image memory 15 and is not printed. Therefore, the paper of the user-side facsimile machine 1 is not consumed at the time of remote maintenance.
[0043]
The PB signal "99" is a remote maintenance end command 49. When this command 49 is executed, the user-side facsimile machine 1 ends the remote maintenance mode, releases the telephone line, and waits for a normal fax standby. It is said.
[0044]
Here, a caller-side telephone number reception service (Caller ID) that is put into practical use in the United States and the United Kingdom will be briefly described. This service is a service in which the telephone number of the calling device is transmitted from the exchange to the called device when the called device has subscribed to the service. The timing at which the telephone number of the calling device is transmitted is a silent interval immediately before the first ringing signal in the United Kingdom, and a silent interval between the first ringing signal and the next ringing signal in the United States. The telephone number of the calling device can be received while the receiver is in the on-hook state, that is, while the telephone line is open. Therefore, if this service is used, the called device can recognize the telephone number of the calling device without charging the calling device for the telephone charge. The facsimile apparatus 1 of this embodiment uses the caller's telephone number reception service (Caller ID) when executing the remote maintenance mode.
[0045]
Next, the operation of the remote maintenance process of the facsimile machine 1 configured as described above will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. This process is started when a service person who is a maintenance enforcer calls (calls) the facsimile machine 1 on the user side. When the user finds a defect in the facsimile machine 1, the user makes an inquiry to the service center by telephone or the like for recovery (maintenance). The service person receives the inquiry and calls the facsimile machine 1 on the user side. (Call) and start remote maintenance.
[0046]
The facsimile apparatus 1 waits until a call signal is received (S1: No), and when the call signal is received (S1: Yes), the calling apparatus is transmitted from the exchange 29 while the telephone line is kept open. It is determined whether or not the telephone number (Caller ID) has been sent (S3). If the telephone number of the calling device has been sent (S3: Yes), it is checked whether the telephone number matches one of the telephone numbers stored in the ROM 12 or the EEPROM 13 (S5). . As described above, the ROM 12 previously stores two telephone numbers, the FAX number 12b of the manufacturer's repair clerk and the FAX number 12c of the distributor's repair clerk. One telephone number is stored. Therefore, if the telephone number of the calling device sent from the exchange 29 matches one of the maximum five telephone numbers stored in the ROM 12 or the EEPROM 13 (S5: Yes), the user operation is stopped. The telephone line is closed without any intervention (S7), and the mode is shifted to the remote maintenance mode (S9). Since no operation by the user is required to shift to the remote maintenance mode in this way, even when performing maintenance on a facsimile machine owned by a user unfamiliar with the operation, the user can easily enter the remote maintenance mode. For example, even when the user's facsimile apparatus is set to the manual reception mode, the user can immediately shift to the remote maintenance mode.
[0047]
When the mode is shifted to the remote maintenance mode, the user-side facsimile machine 1 (called-side device) enters a standby state for a maintenance command sent from the calling-side device (S11: No). This is because the processing of the user-side facsimile machine 1 in the remote maintenance mode is performed based on a command transmitted from the calling-side device. When the maintenance command sent from the calling side device is received (S11: Yes), it is determined whether or not the command is the maintenance end command 49 (S13). If not, the maintenance command is received (S13: No). Each maintenance process according to the maintenance commands 40 to 48 is executed (S19). The description of each process based on the maintenance commands 40 to 48 has already been described with reference to FIG.
[0048]
When the maintenance end command 49 is received in the standby state of the maintenance command (S11), and the maintenance end command 49 is received (S13: Yes), the user-side facsimile machine 1 opens the telephone line without the user's operation (S15), and The maintenance mode ends (S17). As described above, since no user operation is required from the start to the end of the remote maintenance, the remote maintenance of the facsimile apparatus can be performed without bothering the user.
[0049]
After the call signal is received (S1: Yes), the telephone number (Caller ID) of the calling device is not transmitted from the exchange 29 (S3: No), or the telephone number of the calling device from the exchange 29 (No). If the caller ID is sent but the telephone number does not match any of the telephone numbers stored in the ROM 12 or the EEPROM 13 (S3: Yes, S5: No), the system does not shift to the remote maintenance mode and normally (S21), the reception process and the like are performed, and the process ends (S17).
[0050]
In this remote maintenance, the serviceman grasps the situation of the facsimile machine 1 on the user side in detail, and decides whether to go to a customer for repair or to have the product itself transported to a service center. , And the subsequent actions. For maintenance that requires only changing the set value, after changing the set value in the remote maintenance mode, the test communication commands 46 and 47 and the test reception command 48 are executed to check the operation of the user-side facsimile machine 1. After finishing, exit the remote maintenance mode.
[0051]
As described in detail above, according to the facsimile apparatus of the present embodiment, the mode automatically shifts to the remote maintenance mode according to the telephone number of the calling apparatus, so that no user operation is required, and the remote maintenance mode is not required. Can be easily transferred to In the remote maintenance mode, private data such as communication history is pulled out to the calling device or the setting of the called device is changed by a command of the calling device. Since the mode is shifted to the remote maintenance mode only when called from the side device, there is no danger that the secret is violated or the setting is changed carelessly. Further, according to the remote maintenance mode of the present embodiment, it is possible to analyze the apparatus without inquiring the user and obtain detailed information. Items that can be dealt with only by changing the settings can be resolved during this remote maintenance mode, and operations can be checked.
[0052]
In the caller's telephone number receiving service (Caller ID), the transmission of the caller's telephone number is performed either immediately before the first ringing tone or between the first ringing tone and the next ringing tone. Done. Therefore, if the service is used as in the present embodiment, it is possible to shift to the remote maintenance mode only by ringing the ringing tone of the user-side facsimile apparatus zero or once. Therefore, the remote maintenance can be executed at night without bothering the user. In addition, remote maintenance can be performed for overseas users without regard to time differences.
[0053]
Since the remote maintenance mode is activated by calling a device on the service center side (calling side device), the telephone charge becomes a burden on the service center side, and the user is not burdened. Further, since the products to be subjected to the remote maintenance are limited to the facsimile machine in which the program described in the present embodiment is installed, it is possible to perform the maintenance of only the company's own products while excluding products of other companies. Further, before closing the telephone line, it is determined whether or not to shift to the remote maintenance mode, so that the telephone charge borne by the service center side is reduced accordingly.
[0054]
Claim 1ToOf the described facsimile machineMaintenance meansAs S described in the flowchart of FIG.19ProcessingCPU 11 to executeApplies,As a rewritable nonvolatile memory, an EEPROM 13 shown in FIG.Corresponds to the processing of S9CPU 11 that executesIs applicable. ClaimsTo 5Of the described facsimile machineMemoryAs a means,ROM 12 and EEPROM 13 shown in FIG.And the judgment meansIn the flowchart shown in FIG.Processing of S5CPU 11 that executesIs applicable.
[0055]
As described above, the present invention has been described based on the embodiments. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and it is easily understood that various improvements and modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention. It can be inferred.
[0056]
For example, in the above embodiment, the recognition of the telephone number of the calling apparatus and the determination as to whether or not to shift to the remote maintenance mode were made before the closing of the telephone line. It may be performed after the conclusion. Further, in the above-described embodiment, the case where the caller's telephone number receiving service (Caller ID) in which the telephone number of the calling device is transmitted from the exchange is used, but the telephone number of the calling device is transmitted. Of course, other services can be used as long as the service is provided. For example, in the case of transmitting the own telephone number from the calling device itself, it is sufficient to use this telephone number to determine whether or not to shift to the remote maintenance mode.
[0057]
Further, in addition to the program for shifting to the remote maintenance mode based on the telephone number of the calling device described in the above embodiment, when the calling device performs a predetermined operation after the line is closed, the remote maintenance mode is set. The program to be transferred may be provided in one facsimile machine.
[0058]
【The invention's effect】
According to the facsimile apparatus of the first aspect, when a maintenance mode is set by the setting means in response to a call from the calling apparatus, maintenance processing is executed by the maintenance means during the mode, and in particular, maintenance is performed. The process includes a notification process for notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in the own facsimile machine, and a process of notifying the calling device from the calling device.The address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueAnd changing the setting value of its own facsimile apparatus based on the signal of the above. The maintenance unit can execute the notification process and the changing process during the maintenance mode once set. . Therefore, for example, after executing the notification processing, the maintenance mode is temporarily terminated to open the communication line, and the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device to set the maintenance mode again, and the change is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed by one communication without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0059]
Further, according to the facsimile apparatus of the second aspect, when the telephone number of the calling side device is received by the calling side telephone number receiving unit, the telephone number matches the telephone number stored in the storage unit. The determination unit determines whether or not the telephone numbers match, and when the determination is affirmative, the maintenance unit is set by the setting unit, and during this mode, the maintenance unit executes the maintenance process. Accordingly, the maintenance mode is set when a call is made from the calling side device having the specific telephone number, so that the operation can easily be shifted to the maintenance mode without bothering the operator. In particular, the maintenance process includes a notification process of notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine, and aThe address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueChange processing to change the setting value of its own facsimile machine based on the signal ofIncludedThe maintenance means can execute the notification processing and the change processing during the maintenance mode once set. Therefore, for example, after executing the notification processing, the maintenance mode is temporarily terminated to open the communication line, and the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device to set the maintenance mode again, and the change is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed by one communication without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0060]
According to the facsimile apparatus of the third aspect,In addition to the effects of the invention described in claim 1 or 2,During the set maintenance mode, first, by executing the notification process, the model name, the program version, the set value of the own facsimile machine, the communication history, the test dataOut of maintenance for at least the setting value of own facsimile machineThe information is notified to the calling device, and the operator of the calling device that has confirmed the information can perform an operation of changing the setting value of the facsimile device as necessary by continuously performing the change process. .
[0061]
According to the facsimile apparatus of the fourth aspect, when the maintenance mode is set by the setting unit in response to the call from the calling device, the maintenance unit executes the maintenance process during the mode. , For the maintenance processing,The address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueA changing process of changing the setting value of its own facsimile machine based on the signal ofWhen a test communication command sent from the calling device is received, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.A test process for executing a test is included, and the maintenance unit can execute the change process and the test process during the maintenance mode once set. Therefore, for example, after executing the change processing, once the maintenance mode is ended and the communication line is opened, the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device, the maintenance mode is set again, and the test is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0062]
According to the facsimile apparatus of the fifth aspect, when the telephone number of the calling device is received by the calling telephone number receiving means, the telephone number matches the telephone number stored in the storage means. The determination unit determines whether or not the telephone numbers match, and when the determination is affirmative, the maintenance unit is set by the setting unit, and during this mode, the maintenance unit executes the maintenance process. Accordingly, the maintenance mode is set when a call is made from the calling side device having the specific telephone number, so that the operation can easily be shifted to the maintenance mode without bothering the operator. In particular, for the maintenance process,The address of the rewritable non-volatile memory that stores the setting value of the item whose setting is sent and the value of the setting valueA changing process of changing the setting value of its own facsimile machine based on the signal ofWhen a test communication command sent from the calling device is received, a test chart is transmitted to the calling device.A test process for executing a test is included, and the maintenance unit can execute the change process and the test process during the maintenance mode once set. Therefore, for example, after executing the change processing, once the maintenance mode is ended and the communication line is opened, the line is closed again according to the call from the calling device, the maintenance mode is set again, and the test is performed. Maintenance processing of different types can be efficiently performed by one communication without performing troublesome processing such as executing processing.
[0063]
According to the facsimile apparatus of claim 6,Effect of the invention according to claim 4 or 5 In addition to,In the test process,A test for once receiving a test chart sent from a calling device and transmitting the received test chart to the calling deviceCan also be executed.
[0064]
Further, according to the facsimile apparatus of claim 7,In addition to the effects of the invention according to any one of claims 1 to 6,During multiple maintenance processesAccording to the command received from the calling deviceMaintenance processMaintenance meansSince the maintenance mode is executed, the maintenance process according to the status of the facsimile machine can be easily executed. Further, once the maintenance mode is set, the maintenance unit operates until a command indicating the end of the maintenance is received. Can be executed continuously, so that the number of times the telephone line is closed can be reduced and the telephone charge to be charged can be reduced.
[0065]
According to the facsimile apparatus of claim 8,In addition to the effects of the invention described in claim 7,Commonly used in the field of communication, it is possible to send out reliably with a simple operation, and since the command is transmitted to the receiving side by a PB signal with few false detections, the maintenance means is The maintenance process can be executed accurately, and the maintenance means is provided with a PB signal.Corresponds to the change processing described above.In the case, the same PB signalThe address of the rewritable nonvolatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is changed is storedAnd processing as information indicating a new set value, it is not necessary to use a different signal format for changing the set value, and a configuration for detecting a signal of another format is not required, and the maintenance process is more efficiently performed. It can be performed.
[0066]
According to the facsimile apparatus of claim 9,In addition to the effects of the invention described in claim 8,When a predetermined PB signal is received during the execution of the change process, the maintenance unit considers that the transmission of the PB signal for changing the set value has ended, and processes the next PB signal as a new command.Re-enter remote maintenance modeTherefore, the maintenance mode can be reliably maintained even after the change processing is completed.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a perspective view of a facsimile apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an electrical configuration of the facsimile apparatus.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a remote maintenance command and its contents.
FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating a remote maintenance process.
[Explanation of symbols]
1 Facsimile machine
11 CPU
12 ROM (storage means)
12b FAX number of manufacturer's repair staff
12c FAX number of the sales representative
13 EEPROM (storage means)
13b, 13c, 13d Local service store number area
29 exchange
31, 32 telephone line

Claims (9)

A maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes;
A setting unit for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance unit in response to a call from the calling device; and a rewritable nonvolatile memory, which is stored in a setting item area of the nonvolatile memory. A facsimile machine that performs various operations based on set values,
The plurality of maintenance processes, a notification process of notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile machine,
Sent from the calling device, changes the set value of its own facsimile device based on the value of the signal of the address and the set value of the non-volatile memory the set value of the item set is changed are stored Change processing,
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said maintenance means is capable of executing said notification processing and said change processing during one maintenance mode set by said setting means. Calling-side telephone number receiving means for receiving the telephone number of the calling-side device sent from the exchange , and rewritable nonvolatile memory, and setting values stored in a setting item area of the nonvolatile memory a facsimile apparatus for performing various operations on the basis of,
Storage means for storing a predetermined telephone number;
Determining means for determining whether or not the telephone number of the calling device received by the calling telephone number receiving means matches the telephone number stored in the storage means;
A maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes;
Setting means for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance means when the telephone number is determined to match by the determination means,
The plurality of maintenance processes include a notification process for notifying the calling device of information for maintenance provided in its own facsimile device, and a setting value of an item whose setting is changed, which is sent from the calling device. and a changing process for changing the setting value of the own facsimile device based on signals to said non-volatile memory address and the set value,
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said maintenance means is capable of executing said notification processing and said change processing during one maintenance mode set by said setting means. The information for maintenance includes at least a set value of its own facsimile device among a model name, a program version, its own facsimile device setting value, communication history, and test data. 1 or facsimile apparatus according to 2. A maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes;
A setting unit for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance unit in response to a call from the calling device; and a rewritable nonvolatile memory, which is stored in a setting item area of the nonvolatile memory. A facsimile machine that performs various operations based on set values ,
The plurality of maintenance processes are performed based on an address of the non-volatile memory in which a setting value of an item whose setting is to be changed, which is sent from the calling side device, and a signal of the value of the setting value. includes a changing process for changing the setting values of the apparatus when receiving the test communication command sent from the calling device, and a test process for performing tests to send a test chart to the calling machine,
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said maintenance means can execute said change processing and said test processing during one maintenance mode set by said setting means. Calling-side telephone number receiving means for receiving the telephone number of the calling-side device sent from the exchange , and rewritable nonvolatile memory, and setting values stored in a setting item area of the nonvolatile memory a facsimile apparatus for performing various operations on the basis of,
Storage means for storing a predetermined telephone number;
Determining means for determining whether or not the telephone number of the calling device received by the calling telephone number receiving means matches the telephone number stored in the storage means;
A maintenance means capable of executing a plurality of maintenance processes;
Setting means for setting a maintenance mode for operating the maintenance means when the telephone number is determined to match by the determination means,
The plurality of maintenance processes are performed based on an address of the non-volatile memory in which the setting value of the item whose setting is to be changed is stored and a signal of the value of the setting value to be changed, which is sent from the calling device. of including a change processing for changing the setting value of the facsimile apparatus receives a test communication command sent from the calling device, and a test process for performing tests to send a test chart to the calling machine,
The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein said maintenance means can execute said change processing and said test processing during one maintenance mode set by said setting means. The test process, the once received the test chart is sent from the calling device, wherein the received test chart in claim 4 or 5, characterized in that it comprises a test to be transmitted to the calling device Facsimile machine. The maintenance unit receives a command transmitted from the calling device, executes the pre-Symbol maintenance process corresponding to the command received in the plurality of maintenance process, it is received command indicating the end of the maintenance 7. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the processing according to the received command is sequentially executed until the command is received. The command is transmitted by a PB signal, and the maintenance unit is subsequently transmitted from the calling device when the PB signal transmitted from the calling device corresponds to the change process. 8. The facsimile apparatus according to claim 7, wherein the PB signal is processed as information indicating an address of the non-volatile memory storing a set value of an item whose setting is to be changed and a new set value. The command is transmitted by a PB signal, and includes a predetermined PB signal for terminating the change process;
The maintenance unit, when receiving a predetermined PB signal during execution of the change process, the control section 10 ends change process, wait for the next PB signal transmitted from the calling device is processed as a command remotely The facsimile apparatus according to claim 8, wherein the mode is shifted to the maintenance mode again .

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