JP5483075B2 - Image forming apparatus and image forming program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus and an image forming program.

  In the image forming apparatus, target data to be processed in the image forming process is temporarily stored in the work area of the storage device and processed. When the power is turned off in this state, the power is turned on again. Thus, recovery processing is performed on these unprocessed target data.

  In the prior art described in Patent Document 1, all job data is stored in a nonvolatile storage unit when storing a copy job or print job for the purpose of storing image data for a long period of time. If the data remains, a predetermined recovery process is performed, and the job data is erased from the non-volatile storage after the job execution is completed.

  In the prior art described in Patent Document 2, the job management information stored in the volatile memory is copied and updated and stored in a nonvolatile storage medium at the end of the job or every time a predetermined time elapses. Sometimes, when job management information is stored in the nonvolatile storage medium, the job management information is restored from the nonvolatile storage medium to the volatile memory, and the image forming operation is restarted based on the job management information. The job management state before restart is restored, and uncompleted output can be resumed after restart.

JP 2005-297324 A JP 2005-022099 A

The present invention can prevent all facsimile communications from being terminated in error by prohibiting the restoration facsimile communication processing at power-on when all the communication forms in the facsimile communication are invalid. An object is to provide a forming apparatus and an image forming program.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention of claim 1 comprises a first image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a first communication network, and a connected image information transmitting function device. Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication form of the first communication network, and power supply from a state where power supply is stopped A retransmission control unit that controls retransmission of image information that has not been transmitted when supply is started, and the retransmission control unit includes the image information transmitted by the first image information transmission unit. Determining means for determining whether the transmission of the image information is effective, and determining by the determining means that the transmission of the image information by the first image information transmitting means is not effective, and the image information transmitting function device is not connected. Sometimes ; And a prohibiting means for prohibiting the transmission of the transmission uncompleted image information according to the serial first image information transmitting means and said second image information transmission means.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the first aspect of the invention, the image information includes identification information for identifying a communication network used for transmission, and the retransmission control means transmits the first image information by the determining means. If it is determined that the means is valid, image information whose identification information included in the image information is the first communication network among the incompletely transmitted image information is used for the first image information transmitting means. And resend.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the second aspect of the present invention, the retransmission control means includes image information in which the identification information included in the image information is the second communication network among the image information that has not been transmitted. Retransmission is performed using the second image information transmitting means.

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the first image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via the first communication network, and the first image information transmitting function device connected thereto. Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication form of the communication network, storage means for storing uncompleted image information, First determination means for determining whether transmission of image information by the first image information transmission means is valid, second determination means for determining whether the image information transmission function device is connected, and power supply When the power supply is started from the state where the image is stopped and the normal operation state is entered, it is determined by the first determination unit that the transmission of the image information by the first image information transmission unit is valid. Or the second determination means If it is determined that the image information transmission function device is connected, the image information stored in the storage unit is controlled to be retransmitted, and the first determination unit controls the first image. If it is determined that the transmission of the image information by the information transmitting unit is not valid, and the second determining unit determines that the image information transmitting function device is not connected, the transmission information stored in the storage unit is not transmitted. Retransmission control means for controlling to prohibit retransmission of completed image information.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the computer uses the first image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via the first communication network, and the connected image information transmitting function device. Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication form of the first communication network, and transmission of image information by the first image information transmitting means. Determining means for determining whether the image information is valid; when the power supply is started from the state where the power supply is stopped and the normal operation state is entered, the determining means determines whether the first image information transmitting means When it is determined that transmission is not valid and the image information transmission function device is not connected, transmission of image information that has not been transmitted by the first image information transmission unit and the second image information transmission unit is performed. To function as a prohibiting means for stopping.

According to the first aspect of the present invention, when all the communication modes in the facsimile communication are invalid, all the facsimile communication ends in error by prohibiting the restoration facsimile communication processing at the time of power-on. There is an effect that it can be prevented.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, it is possible to perform an optimum facsimile communication according to the communication state of each communication function.

  Further, according to the third aspect, there is an effect that the optimum facsimile communication according to the communication state of each communication function can be performed.

According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, when all communication modes in the facsimile communication are invalid, the restoration facsimile communication processing at the time of turning on the power is prohibited to prevent all facsimile communication from being ended in error. There is an effect of being able to do it.

According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, when all communication modes in the facsimile communication are invalid, the restoration facsimile communication processing at power-on is prohibited to prevent all facsimile communication from being terminated in error. There is an effect of being able to do it.

1 is an example of a system configuration diagram of an image forming system configured by applying an image forming apparatus and an image forming program according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a block diagram showing a detailed functional configuration of a dual communication facsimile apparatus that is an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention. 4 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Hereinafter, an embodiment of an image forming apparatus and an image forming program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

  FIG. 1 is an example of a system configuration diagram of an image forming system configured by applying an image forming apparatus and an image forming program according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 1, the image forming system is provided with a communication network in two different communication forms, an IP communication network 200 and a public switched telephone network (T.38) 300.

  An IP facsimile machine 200-1, an IP facsimile machine 200-2, and a dual communication facsimile machine (PSTN: Public Switched Telephone Networks) 100 are connected to the IP communication network 200, and a dual communication facsimile machine is connected to the public switched telephone network 300. The apparatus 100, the public switched telephone network facsimile apparatus 300-1, and the public switched telephone network facsimile apparatus 300-2 are connected.

  This dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 is an apparatus capable of performing facsimile communication via two communication networks, an IP communication network 200 and a public switched telephone network 300.

  The IP communication network 200 creates an IP packet in which image information (hereinafter also referred to as “facsimile communication job” or “communication job”) is used as an IP payload and header information including transfer destination information and transmission source information is added thereto. A facsimile communication that can transmit and receive the IP packet and is performed via the IP communication network 200 is referred to as “IP facsimile communication”.

  The public switched telephone network is a communication network for general subscriber telephone lines, and facsimile communication performed via the public switched telephone network is referred to as “PSTN facsimile communication”.

  In order for the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 to perform IP facsimile communication, an “IP facsimile function” is used.

  This IP facsimile function is realized by software or the like installed in the ROM or RAM (not shown) of the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100, and uses a predetermined management application to set the IP facsimile function to “valid” and “ Change the setting to “Invalid”.

  Further, in order for the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 to perform PSTN facsimile communication, the “PSTN facsimile function” is used. This PSTN facsimile function is provided by an image information transmission function device constituted by a facsimile communication board or the like. When provided by the facsimile communication board, the facsimile communication board is connected to a USB (Universal Serial Bus) connection or a PCI (Peripheral). It is connected to the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 by Component Interconnect) connection or the like.

  The dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 that performs facsimile communication of two communication modes as described above has a functional configuration as shown in FIG.

  The dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 resends a communication job by recovering from a state in which the power is cut off due to a failure or the like during transmission of the facsimile communication and before transmission in addition to the reserved communication in the facsimile communication. Is possible.

  This reserved facsimile communication is a facsimile communication performed using the IP facsimile function or the PSTN facsimile function after the designated time designated in advance or after the elapsed time from the designated current time has elapsed.

  When reserved facsimile communication is designated, the communication job of the reserved facsimile communication is stored in the job storage unit. When it is detected that the designated time is reached, the communication job stored in the job storage unit is designated. Facsimile communication to the destination facsimile machine.

  When resending is performed, when power is restored by turning on the power, the communication job stored in the job storage unit is retransmitted by facsimile communication to a designated destination facsimile machine.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a detailed functional configuration of the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 which is an image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 2, the dual communication facsimile apparatus 100 includes a reception unit 10, a job determination control unit 11, a reading unit 12, a user interface 13, a job storage unit 14, a PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15, a recovery processing unit 16, and a communication availability determination unit 17. A setting unit 18, an IP facsimile transmission unit 19, and a reservation control unit 20.

  The receiving unit 10 is connected to a communication line such as an IP communication network or a public switched telephone network, and receives processing target data designated by a destination facsimile apparatus via the communication line.

  Then, the receiving unit 10 notifies the job determination control unit 11 of the received processing target data. In this processing target data, for example, destination information (address information such as a node ID and a facsimile telephone number) and facsimile setting information are specified as additional information such as a header.

  The job determination control unit 11 that has received the processing target data from the receiving unit 10 determines whether the notified processing target data is based on IP facsimile communication or PSTN facsimile communication. At the same time, the job determination control unit 11 determines whether reserved facsimile transmission is designated in the received processing target data.

  When the reservation facsimile transmission is designated, the job determination control unit 11 stores the processing target data in the job storage unit 14 for each communication mode of the processing target data, and the job storage unit 14 stores the processing target data designated for reserved facsimile transmission and the time information for performing reserved facsimile transmission.

  In the job storage unit 14 at this time, a different work area is provided for each communication form. When the data is processing target data of the communication form in the IP facsimile communication using the IP communication network, the “IP-FAX job work area” is provided. The processing target data is stored as an unsent communication job, and if it is processing target data of a communication form in PSTN facsimile communication using the public switched telephone network, the processing target data is transferred to “PSTN-FAX job work area”. Data is stored as an unsent job.

  In addition, the reservation control unit 20 keeps timing until the designated time specified by the time information for performing the reserved facsimile transmission notified from the job determination control unit 11, and is stored in the job storage unit 14 when the designated time is reached. Acquire processed data.

  Then, the reservation control unit 20 transmits the processing target data to the IP facsimile transmission unit 19 or the PSTN facsimile in order to transmit it to the destination IP facsimile machine or public switched telephone facsimile apparatus specified by the header of the acquired processing target data. Transmit to the transmitter 15.

  At this time, the IP facsimile transmission unit 19 or the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15 performs facsimile transmission to the IP facsimile apparatus or public exchange telephone facsimile apparatus which is the destination designated by the header of the data to be processed.

  If the job determination control unit 11 determines that reserved facsimile transmission is not specified, and if it is determined that the facsimile communication is based on the IP facsimile communication mode, the received processing target data is transferred to the IP facsimile. The data is sent to the transmission unit 19. On the other hand, when it is determined that the facsimile communication is in the PSTN facsimile communication mode, the received processing target data is sent to the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15.

  At this time, the IP facsimile transmission unit 19 performs facsimile transmission to the destination IP facsimile apparatus connected via the IP communication network, and the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15 transmits the destination public exchange telephone network connected via the public exchange telephone network. Facsimile transmission to the facsimile machine.

  The IP facsimile function of performing IP facsimile communication via the IP communication network in the IP facsimile transmitter 19 can be switched and set by setting “valid” or “invalid” by the setting unit 18.

  The setting unit 18 provides the IP facsimile function as “valid” on the user interface 15 in addition to the display of an information processing terminal (for example, a mobile PC) provided by a management application and connected via a USB line or a LAN line. The setting by the operator is made possible by displaying a screen for setting whether or not to make the setting invalid.

  Next, the recovery processing unit 16 restores facsimile transmission of the processing target data stored in the job storage unit 14 when the power supply is stopped while the processing target data is stored in the job storage unit 14. To do.

  The state in which the processing target data is stored in the job storage unit 14 is a state in which uncompleted processing target data exists in the job storage unit 14, and the designated time is reached when reserved facsimile transmission is specified. Including the state memorized.

  In the recovery processing unit 16, when the power supply is started from the state where the power supply is stopped and the normal operation state is entered, is the processing target data stored in the job storage unit 14 for facsimile transmission of any communication form stored? Judging.

  If the processing target data is not stored, the restoration process is not performed. However, if the processing target data is stored in any communication form when the power supply is started and the normal operation state is entered, the communication is not performed. A request for confirming whether the IP facsimile function using the IP facsimile transmission unit 19 is valid is made to the availability determination unit 17.

  If it is possible to determine that the data to be processed for reserved facsimile transmission is not timed, the restoration process may not be performed due to the start of power supply and normal operation. It is. In this case, the reservation control unit 20 stores information on the designated time in the reserved facsimile transmission in the nonvolatile memory or the like even when the power supply is stopped.

  At this time, when the normal operation state is entered, processing target data for which the designated time for reserved facsimile transmission has passed is stored, or processing target data for which reserved facsimile transmission is not specified is stored Then, a restoration process is performed on the processing target data.

  The communication availability determination unit 17 that has received the confirmation request determines whether or not the IP facsimile communication is possible because the IP facsimile function using the IP facsimile transmission unit 19 set by the setting unit 18 is “valid”. Determine.

  Then, the determination result by the communication availability determination unit 17 is returned to the recovery processing unit 16.

  In the recovery processing unit 16 that has received the determination result, when the setting unit 18 receives a determination result indicating that the IP facsimile communication is possible because the IP facsimile function is “valid”, the PSTN in the communication availability determination unit 17 is received. The facsimile transmission of the processing target data stored in the job storage unit 14 is performed without determining whether or not the facsimile communication is possible in the facsimile transmission unit 15.

  At this time, if the processing target data stored in the job storage unit 14 is only from the IP facsimile communication using the IP facsimile transmission unit 19, the processing target data is transferred to the IP facsimile via the IP facsimile transmission unit 19. Sent.

  Further, the processing target data stored in the job storage unit 14 includes data by PSTN facsimile communication using the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15, and the facsimile communication board constituting the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15 is connected. Therefore, when the PSTN facsimile function is “valid”, the processing target data is transmitted by facsimile to the public switched telephone facsimile apparatus via the public switched telephone network.

  When the PSTN facsimile function is “invalid” because the facsimile communication board is not connected, a message indicating that public exchange telephone facsimile transmission using the PSTN facsimile function cannot be performed is displayed on the display unit of the user interface 13.

  As described above, the recovery unit 16 does not receive the result determined by the communication availability determination unit 17 that the setting unit 18 determines that the IP facsimile function is “valid”, but the IP facsimile function is “invalid” ”Is received from the communication availability determination unit 17, the recovery processing unit 16 subsequently activates the PSTN facsimile function by the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15 for the processing availability determination unit 17. Make a confirmation request.

  When the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” because the processing availability determination unit 17 is connected to the facsimile communication board constituting the PSTN facsimile transmission unit 15, the recovery processing unit 16 determines that the PSTN facsimile function is “valid”. Data to be processed is sent to the facsimile transmission unit 15.

  On the other hand, when the recovery processing unit 16 responds that the PSTN facsimile function is “invalid” from the processing availability determination unit 17, either of the IP facsimile function and the PSTN facsimile function is used. Prohibit facsimile transmission.

  FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing a flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 3, in an image forming apparatus in which power supply is started from a state where power supply is stopped and is in a normal operation state, a job (processing target) that has not been transmitted to the job storage unit and is an object of uncompleted facsimile transmission. It is determined whether (data) is stored (301).

  If the processing target data is not stored (NO in 301), the normal operation state is continued and the processing in this flowchart is terminated.

  If it is determined that the data to be processed is stored in the job storage unit (YES in 301), it is subsequently determined whether the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (302).

  When the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (YES in 302), recovery is performed by using the IP facsimile function to transmit the processing target data to the destination IP facsimile apparatus via the IP communication network. Processing is performed (303).

  At this time, it is determined whether or not the IP facsimile transmission is normally completed (304). If it is determined that the IP facsimile transmission is not normally completed (NO in 304), for example, the “IP-FAX job” in the job storage unit. If the data to be processed is not stored in the “work area”, it is displayed on the display unit that the IP facsimile transmission using the IP facsimile function has an error (305).

  On the other hand, when it is determined that the processing target data is stored in the “IP-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and the IP facsimile transmission of the processing target data is normally completed (YES in 304), and When an IP facsimile transmission error is displayed, the PSTN facsimile function is subsequently used via the public switched telephone network using the PSTN facsimile function without determining whether the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” or “invalid”. Recovery processing for performing the PSTN facsimile transmission is performed (306).

  It is determined whether the PSTN facsimile transmission is normally completed using the PSTN facsimile function (307).

  When the processing target data is stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and the processing target data can be transmitted by facsimile to the destination PSTN facsimile machine (YES in 307), the processing of this flowchart is performed. finish. Of course, it is possible to record the history information including the destination information, the transmission date and time information, the transmission result, and the like after the facsimile transmission.

  It should be noted that even when the processing target data is not stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area”, it is assumed that the PSTN facsimile transmission is not performed and no error has occurred, so that the processing is normally completed.

  On the other hand, when the processing target data stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit cannot be transmitted by facsimile to the destination PSTN facsimile apparatus, or the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is not connected ( (NO in 307), the fact that PSTN facsimile transmission has become an error is displayed on the display (308).

  Contrary to the case where the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” as described above, when the IP facsimile function is set to “invalid” (NO in 302), the PSTN facsimile is subsequently performed. It is determined whether the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” because the function providing facsimile board is connected (309).

  If the PSTN facsimile function is set to “invalid” because the facsimile board is not connected or the like (NO in 309), this flowchart is executed without executing any of the IP facsimile function and the PSTN facsimile function. Terminate the process.

  On the other hand, when the PSTN facsimile function is set to “valid” due to the connection of the facsimile board or the like (YES in 309), the PSTN facsimile via the public switched telephone network using the PSTN facsimile function is used. Recovery processing for transmission is performed (306).

  Then, the PSTN facsimile function is used to determine whether or not the PSTN facsimile transmission has been completed normally (307), the processing target data is stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit, and the destination PSTN facsimile apparatus If the processing target data can be transmitted by facsimile (YES in 307), the processing of this flowchart is terminated.

  On the other hand, when the processing target data stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit cannot be transmitted by facsimile to the destination PSTN facsimile apparatus, or the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is not connected ( (NO in 307), the fact that PSTN facsimile transmission has become an error is displayed on the display (308).

  FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  In FIG. 4, in an image forming apparatus in which power supply is started from a state in which power supply is stopped and is in a normal operation state, a job (processing target) that has not been transmitted to the job storage unit and is an object of uncompleted facsimile transmission. It is determined whether (data) is stored (401).

  When the processing target data is not stored (NO in 401), the normal operation state is continued and the processing in this flowchart is terminated.

  If it is determined that the data to be processed is stored in the job storage unit (YES in 401), it is subsequently determined whether the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is connected and “valid”. Judgment is made (402).

  If the PSTN facsimile function is set to “valid” (YES in 402), the PSTN facsimile function is used to transmit the data to be processed to the PSTN facsimile apparatus serving as the destination via the public switched telephone network. Recovery processing is performed (403), and further, recovery processing for IP facsimile transmission using the IP facsimile function is performed (404).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether or not the PSTN facsimile transmission is normally completed (405). If it is determined that the PSTN facsimile transmission is not normally completed (NO in 405), for example, a response from the PSTN facsimile apparatus as the destination If there is no error, the fact that PSTN facsimile transmission using the PSTN facsimile function has become an error is displayed on the display (406).

  At this time, even if the processing target data is not stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area”, it is assumed that the PSTN facsimile transmission is not performed and no error has occurred, so that the processing is normally completed.

  On the other hand, when the processing target data is stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit, and the processing target data can be transmitted to the destination PSTN facsimile apparatus (YES in 405), and If PSTN facsimile transmission is not possible and an error is displayed on the display unit, it is then determined whether IP facsimile transmission has been completed normally using the IP facsimile function (407).

  If the data to be processed is not stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit, or if the IP facsimile function is not set to “valid” (NO in 407), the IP facsimile function is used. The fact that the received IP facsimile transmission has become an error is displayed on the display (408).

  On the other hand, if the processing target data is stored in the “IP-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and it is determined that the IP facsimile transmission of the processing target data has been completed normally (YES in 407). Then, the process of this flowchart ends. Of course, it is possible to record the history information including the destination information, the transmission date and time information, the transmission result, and the like after the facsimile transmission.

  Contrary to the case where the PSTN facsimile function is enabled by connecting the facsimile board that provides the PSTN facsimile function as described above, the facsimile board that provides the PSTN facsimile function is not connected. If “invalid” is set by (NO in 402), it is subsequently determined whether the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (409).

  If the IP facsimile function is not set to “valid” (NO in 409), the process of this flowchart is terminated without executing any of the IP facsimile function and the PSTN facsimile function.

  On the other hand, if the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (YES in 409), the PSTN facsimile function is used to transfer the processing target data to the PSTN facsimile apparatus that is the destination via the public switched telephone network. Recovery processing for facsimile transmission is performed (403), and further, recovery processing for IP facsimile transmission using the IP facsimile function is performed (404).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether the PSTN facsimile transmission has been normally completed (405).

  In this case, normally, it is determined that the PSTN facsimile transmission has not been completed normally because the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is not connected. In this case (NO in 405), the PSTN facsimile transmission using the PSTN facsimile function is displayed on the display unit as an error (406).

  Subsequently, it is determined whether the IP facsimile transmission is normally completed using the IP facsimile function (407).

  If the data to be processed is not stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit, or if the IP facsimile function is not set to “valid” (NO in 407), the IP facsimile function is used. The fact that the received IP facsimile transmission has become an error is displayed on the display (408).

  On the other hand, if the processing target data is stored in the “IP-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and it is determined that the IP facsimile transmission of the processing target data has been completed normally (YES in 407). Then, the process of this flowchart ends.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, which is similar to the flow of processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. 3, and in the flowchart shown in FIG. A process for identifying the communication form is performed.

  In FIG. 5, in an image forming apparatus that has started power supply from a state in which power supply is stopped and is in a normal operation state, a job (processing target) that has not been transmitted to the job storage unit and is an object of uncompleted facsimile transmission. It is determined whether (data) is stored (501).

  If processing target data is not stored (NO in 501), the normal operation state is continued and the processing in this flowchart is terminated.

  If it is determined that the processing target data is stored in the job storage unit (YES in 501), it is then determined whether the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (502).

  When the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” (YES in 502), recovery using the IP facsimile function to transmit the data to be processed to the destination IP facsimile machine via the IP communication network Processing is performed (503). Further, recovery processing for performing PSTN facsimile transmission via the public switched telephone network using the PSTN facsimile function is performed without determining whether the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” or “invalid” (504).

  At this time, it is determined whether the PSTN facsimile transmission has been normally completed by using the PSTN facsimile function (505).

  When the processing target data is stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and the processing target data can be transmitted by facsimile to the destination PSTN facsimile machine (YES in 505), the processing of this flowchart is performed. finish. Of course, it is possible to record the history information including the destination information, the transmission date and time information, the transmission result, and the like after the facsimile transmission.

  It should be noted that even when the processing target data is not stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area”, it is assumed that the PSTN facsimile transmission is not performed and no error has occurred, so that the processing is normally completed.

  On the other hand, when the processing target data stored in the “PSTN-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit cannot be transmitted by facsimile to the destination PSTN facsimile apparatus, or the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is not connected ( If NO in 505, the fact that PSTN facsimile transmission has become an error is displayed on the display (506).

  Contrary to the case where the IP facsimile function is set to “valid” as described above, when the IP facsimile function is set to “invalid” (NO in 502), the PSTN facsimile is subsequently performed. It is determined whether the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” by connecting the facsimile board providing the function (507).

  If the PSTN facsimile function is not “valid” because the facsimile board is connected or the like (NO in 507), the processing of this flowchart is terminated. If the PSTN facsimile function is “valid” (YES in 507), the facsimile apparatus that is the destination of the processing target data stored in the job storage unit is an IP facsimile apparatus or a PSTN facsimile apparatus. (508).

  As a result of this analysis processing, it is determined whether processing target data destined for the PSTN facsimile apparatus is stored in the job storage unit (509). If processing target data destined for the PSTN facsimile apparatus is stored (509) If YES, a recovery process for performing PSTN facsimile transmission via the public switched telephone network using the PSTN facsimile function is performed (504). Thereafter, the same processing as described above is performed.

  Further, when the processing target data destined for the PSTN facsimile apparatus is not stored (NO in 509), the processing of this flowchart is terminated without executing any of the IP facsimile function and the PSTN facsimile function. .

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing performed in the image forming apparatus according to the embodiment of the present invention, which is similar to the flow of processing in the flowchart shown in FIG. 4. In the flowchart shown in FIG. A process for identifying the communication form is performed.

  In FIG. 6, in an image forming apparatus that has started power supply from a state where power supply is stopped and is in a normal operation state, a job (processing target) that has not been transmitted to the job storage unit and is an object of uncompleted facsimile transmission. It is determined whether (data) is stored (601).

  If processing target data is not stored (NO in 601), the normal operation state is continued and the processing in this flowchart is terminated.

  If it is determined that the processing target data is stored in the job storage unit (YES in 601), it is subsequently determined whether the PSTN facsimile function is set to “valid” (602).

  If the PSTN facsimile function is set to “valid” (YES in 602), the PSTN facsimile function is used to transmit the data to be processed to the PSTN facsimile apparatus as the destination via the public switched telephone network. Recovery processing is performed (603). Further, a recovery process for performing IP facsimile transmission via the IP communication network using the IP facsimile function is performed without determining whether the IP facsimile function is “valid” or “invalid” (604).

  At this time, it is determined whether the IP facsimile transmission has been normally completed using the IP facsimile function (605).

  When the processing target data is stored in the “IP-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit and the processing target data can be transmitted by facsimile to the destination IP facsimile machine (YES in 605), the processing of this flowchart is performed. finish. Of course, it is possible to record the history information including the destination information, the transmission date and time information, the transmission result, and the like after the facsimile transmission.

  It should be noted that even when no data to be processed is stored in the “IP-FAX job work area”, IP facsimile transmission is not performed and no error has occurred, so that it has been normally completed.

  On the other hand, when the processing target data stored in the “IP-FAX job work area” of the job storage unit cannot be transmitted by facsimile to the destination IP facsimile machine, or the IP facsimile function is not set to “valid” (605). No), the fact that an error occurred in the IP facsimile transmission is displayed on the display (606).

  Contrary to the case where the PSTN facsimile function is set to “valid” as described above, the case where the PSTN facsimile function is set to “invalid” because the facsimile board providing the PSTN facsimile function is not connected (602) Next, it is determined whether the IP facsimile function is “valid” (607).

  If the IP facsimile function is not “valid” (NO in 607), the process of this flowchart is terminated. If the IP facsimile function is “valid” (YES in 607), the facsimile apparatus that is the destination of the processing target data stored in the job storage unit is an IP facsimile apparatus or an IP facsimile apparatus. (608).

  As a result of this analysis processing, it is determined whether processing target data destined for the PSTN facsimile apparatus is stored in the job storage unit (609). If processing target data destined for the PSTN facsimile apparatus is stored (609) If YES, a recovery process for performing IP facsimile transmission via the IP communication network using the IP facsimile function is performed (604). Thereafter, the same processing as described above is performed.

  Further, when the processing target data destined for the IP facsimile apparatus is not stored (NO in 609), the processing of this flowchart is terminated without executing any of the IP facsimile function and the PSTN facsimile function. .

  The embodiment described above is one embodiment of the present invention, and is not limited to these examples, and can be implemented with appropriate modifications within a range not changing the gist thereof.

  In the present invention, the program is executed from a recording medium (CD-ROM, DVD-ROM, etc.) storing a program for executing the above-described operation in an image forming system having a communication function or configuring the above-described means. It is also possible to configure an image forming system that executes the above-described processing by installing the above in a computer and executing it. A computer constituting the image forming system is connected to a central processor unit (CPU), a read only memory (ROM), a random access memory (RAM), and a hard disk via a system bus. The CPU performs processing using the RAM as a work area according to a program stored in the ROM or the hard disk.

  The medium for supplying the program may be a communication medium (a medium for temporarily or fluidly holding the program such as a communication line or a communication system). For example, the program may be posted on an electronic bulletin board (BBS: Bulletin Board Service) of a communication network and distributed via a communication line.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 10 Reception part 11 Job judgment control part 12 Reading part 13 User interface 14 Job memory | storage part 14,
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 15 PSTN facsimile transmission part 16 Recovery process part 17 Communication availability determination part 18 Setting part 19 IP facsimile transmission part 20 Reservation control part 100 IP & public exchange telephone network facsimile apparatus (FoIP & PSTN-FAX)
200 IP communication network 200-1, 200-2 IP facsimile machine (FoIP-FAX)
300 Public exchange telephone network 300-1, 300-2 Public exchange telephone network facsimile machine

Claims (5)

First image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a first communication network;
Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication mode of the first communication network using a connected image information transmission function device;
Retransmission control means for controlling retransmission of uncompleted image information when power supply is started from a state in which power supply is stopped and a normal operation state is established;
Comprising
The retransmission control means includes
Determining means for determining whether transmission of image information by the first image information transmitting means is valid;
When the determination means determines that image information transmission by the first image information transmission means is not effective and the image information transmission function device is not connected, the first image information transmission means and the second image information transmission means An image forming apparatus comprising: prohibiting means for prohibiting transmission of the uncompleted image information by the image information transmitting means. The image information is
Including identification information for identifying the communication network used for transmission,
The retransmission control means includes
When the determination means determines that the first image information transmission means is valid, the image information whose identification information included in the image information is the first communication network out of the image information not yet transmitted. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein retransmission is performed using the first image information transmission unit. The retransmission control means includes
3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the image information whose identification information included in the image information is the second communication network out of the uncompleted image information is retransmitted using the second image information transmitting unit. First image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a first communication network;
Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication mode of the first communication network using a connected image information transmission function device;
Storage means for storing uncompleted image information;
First determination means for determining whether transmission of image information by the first image information transmission means is valid;
Second determination means for determining whether the image information transmission function device is connected;
When the power supply is started from the state where the power supply is stopped and the normal operation state is entered, it is determined by the first determination means that the transmission of the image information by the first image information transmission means is effective. If the image information transmission function device is determined to be connected by the second determination means, the image information stored in the storage means is controlled to be retransmitted, and the first information is transmitted. If it is determined by the determining means that the transmission of the image information by the first image information transmitting means is not effective, and the second determining means determines that the image information transmitting function device is not connected, An image forming apparatus comprising: a retransmission control unit that controls to prohibit retransmission of image information that has not been transmitted and is stored in the storage unit. Computer
First image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via the first communication network;
Second image information transmitting means for transmitting image information by facsimile communication performed via a second communication network different from the communication mode of the first communication network using a connected image information transmission function device;
Determining means for determining whether transmission of image information by the first image information transmitting means is valid;
When the power supply is started from the state where the power supply is stopped and the normal operation state is entered, it is determined by the determination means that the transmission of the image information by the first image information transmission means is not effective, and the image An image forming program that functions as a prohibiting unit that prohibits transmission of uncompleted image information by the first image information transmitting unit and the second image information transmitting unit when an information transmission function device is not connected.

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