JPH10319795A - Recording medium for copying machine recorded with assigned program in alternative output equipment and copying machine as well as alternative output equipment assigning method for copying machine - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To display a transfer destination for alternative output and easily identify the position of the transfer destination. SOLUTION: In a copying machine connected to a network, alternative output equipment for the function of the copying machine is stored. In case that the function of the copying machine is used, if the function is short or unusable, output equipment which can sort all or part of the function is displayed in a display means and one selected out of the displayed output equipment is assigned as alternative output equipment to an output destination.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, a copying machine for performing the method, and a recording medium recording a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In a network in which a plurality of computers are connected to each other by a communication cable or the like, the scale of the network is becoming larger and larger, and input / output devices such as digital copiers, printers, scanners, and facsimile machines are used. A plurality of various types of input / output devices are each connected. Since all the input / output devices can be used from individual computers on such a network, the use efficiency of the input / output devices is improved, and the cost of the entire equipment is reduced. Further, even when the input / output device cannot be used due to a failure or the like, another compatible input / output device can be used instead, and the work efficiency is improved.

As an alternative to using an output device on a network, there has been one described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 6-59833. This relates to a printer that, when print data is sent from a computer to a printer, transfers the print data to another printer connected to a network when the printer cannot print. This printer does not indicate a transfer destination to which print data is transferred.

[0004]

In the conventional method of designating an alternative output device including the ones mentioned in the examples, the transfer destination to which the output data is transferred is not displayed, so that the transferred data is output by any output device. It was inconvenient to know if it would be done. When the range of the network is wide, the output document may be missing.

In view of the above, the present invention provides a method of specifying a substitute output device in a copying machine which displays a transfer destination of a substitute output and makes it easy to understand the position of the transfer destination, and a program for designating a substitute output device in a copy machine. It is an object of the present invention to provide a recorded recording medium.

[0006]

In order to achieve the above object, a recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine according to the present invention is recorded is stored in a copying machine connected to a network. When using the function, if the function is insufficient or unusable, a procedure for displaying on the display means an output device capable of distributing a part or all of the function, from among the displayed output devices And a program for executing a procedure of designating the selected output device as an alternative output device as an output destination.

[0007] In the above-mentioned recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is recorded, the program displays a layout image indicating an arrangement of the output device on a display means, and indicates the output device. A step of displaying an icon at a position corresponding to the actual arrangement position of the input / output device on the layout image; a step of displaying the selected icon separately from other icons; and a step of displaying the selected icon. And a procedure for specifying the output device as an output destination.

In the above-mentioned recording medium, a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is stored, wherein the program displays all output devices capable of alternative output on the display means, It is preferable that the program includes a partial program for executing a procedure of selecting an output device closest to the own device from all the output devices.

[0009] In the above-mentioned recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is recorded, the program changes an output device selected by the copying machine by an operator and selects another output device. It is preferable that the program includes a partial program for executing a procedure that enables the program to be executed.

[0010] In the above-mentioned recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is recorded, the program substitutes a part of the work when the work set in the machine exceeds the function of the machine. It may include a partial program for executing a procedure for distributing to an output device.

[0011] In the above-mentioned recording medium, a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is recorded, wherein the program performs a part of the work when the work time set for the machine exceeds a predetermined time. It may include a partial program for executing a procedure of distributing to the alternative output device.

A copying machine according to the present invention is a copying machine connected to a network, wherein a device information table storing means for storing a device information table for storing an output device capable of substituting each function of the copying machine; And a display means for displaying a device display indicating that the function of the own device is used, and when the function is insufficient or unusable, an output device capable of distributing a part or all of the function is supported. A data transfer unit for displaying a device display on a display unit and outputting work data with the output device corresponding to the device display selected from the device displays as an alternative output device as an output destination.

[0013] A method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine according to the present invention comprises the steps of:
An output device that can substitute for each function of the copying machine is stored, and when the function of the copying machine is used, if the function is insufficient or unavailable, part or all of the function may be sorted. Possible output devices are displayed on display means, and an output device selected from the displayed output devices is designated as an output destination as a substitute output device.

[0014]

BEST MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION A recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine of the present invention is recorded is used when a function of the copying machine is used in a copying machine such as a digital copying machine connected to a network. When the function is insufficient or unusable, a procedure for displaying an output device such as a facsimile or a printer capable of sorting a part or all of the function on a display means such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT; And a step of designating an output device selected from the output devices by a touch panel or the like as an alternative output device as an output destination. With such a program, even if a failure occurs in the copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device to replace the function of the copying machine. Also, the output can be performed by another alternative output device, so that the output time is shortened and the work efficiency is improved. Further, since the transfer destination is displayed, the document output at the transfer destination is not lost.

[0015] In the above-mentioned recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is recorded, the program displays a layout image indicating an arrangement of the output device on a display means, and indicates the output device. A step of displaying an icon at a position corresponding to the actual arrangement position of the input / output device on the layout image; a step of displaying the selected icon separately from other icons; and a step of displaying the selected icon. And a procedure for specifying the output device as an output destination. The shape of the icon is a symbolic representation of the object indicated by the icon. With such a program, when data is transferred, the alternative output device of the transfer destination is displayed on the layout diagram, so that the transfer destination can be easily understood and the document output at the transfer destination can be quickly acquired.

In the above-mentioned recording medium, a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is stored, wherein the program displays all output devices capable of alternative output on the display means, It is preferable that the program includes a partial program for executing a procedure of selecting an output device closest to the own device from all the output devices. The distance can be determined from the position of the icon on the layout diagram. With such a program, the copying machine automatically selects an alternative output device closest to the own device, so that the operator can select an optimal alternative output device by a simple operation.

In the above-mentioned recording medium, a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is recorded, wherein the program changes the output device selected by the copying machine by an operator pressing a touch panel or the like, and changes another output device. It is preferable that the program includes a partial program for executing a procedure that enables selection of an output device. With such a program, the operator can change the alternative output device, so that the most convenient output device can be selected.

Further, in the above-mentioned recording medium in which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is recorded, if the work set for the machine exceeds the function of the machine, for example, the upper limit of the sort copy is 10 When a sort copy is instructed for 20 copies, the program may include a partial program for executing a procedure of distributing a part of the work to the alternative output device. With such a program, even if the work cannot be executed by a single copying machine, the data can be transferred to the alternative output device via the network, and the own device and the alternative output device can work together. Therefore, work time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. In addition, since setting beyond the function limitation of the copying machine alone can be performed, the operation can be set without the operator being aware of the function limitation of each copying machine.

In the above-mentioned recording medium, a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine is stored in a case where the work time of the work set in the machine exceeds a predetermined time, for example, when the work time exceeds 20 minutes. For example, a partial program for executing a procedure of distributing a part of the work to the alternative output device can be included. By using such a program, work that would take an excessive amount of time when executed by the copier alone can be performed by transferring part of the output data to an alternative output device and working together.
Work time can be greatly reduced.

The copying machine of the present invention is a copying machine such as a digital copying machine connected to a network, and stores a device information table for storing output devices such as a facsimile and a printer which can substitute each function of the copying machine. A device information table storage unit, a display unit such as a liquid crystal display or a CRT for displaying a device display indicating the output device, and, when using a function of the own device, when the function is insufficient or unavailable,
A device display corresponding to an alternative output device capable of sorting part or all of the function is displayed on the display means, and the alternative output device corresponding to the device display selected by a touch panel or the like in the device display is displayed. Data transfer means for outputting work data as an alternative output device of the output destination. Even if a failure occurs in the copying machine, the data can be transferred to an alternative output device to replace the function of the copying machine.
The output can be performed by another alternative output device even while the trouble occurring in the copying machine is removed, and the output time is shortened and the work efficiency is improved. Further, since the transfer destination is displayed, the document output at the transfer destination is not lost.

Further, in the above copying machine, there is provided a layout image storage means for storing a layout image indicating an arrangement of the output device, and the data transfer means stores an icon as a device display indicating the output device in the layout. It is preferable that the work data is displayed at a position corresponding to the actual arrangement position of the output device on an image, and the work data is output with the output device corresponding to the selected icon among the icons as an output destination. When transferring data, the alternative output device of the transfer destination is displayed on the layout diagram,
The transfer destination is easy to understand, and the document output at the transfer destination can be quickly acquired.

In the above-mentioned copying machine, the data transfer means displays all output devices capable of alternative output on the display means, and selects, from among all output devices capable of alternative output, its own device. It is preferable to select the output device that is the closest. The distance can be determined from the position of the icon on the layout diagram. Since the copying machine automatically selects the alternative output device closest to the own device, the operator can select the optimal alternative output device by a simple operation.

Further, in the above copying machine, the data transfer means may be capable of changing the selected output device by, for example, pressing a touch panel by an operator to select another output device. preferable. Since the operator can change the alternative output device, the most convenient output device can be selected.

In the above-mentioned copying machine, when the work set in the copying machine exceeds the function of the copying machine, the data transfer means may perform, for example, 20 copies of the sorting copy even though the upper limit of the sorting copy is 10. , Etc., a part of the work may be assigned to the alternative output device. Even for tasks that cannot be performed by a single copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device via a network, and the user and the alternative output device can work together.
Therefore, work time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. In addition, since setting beyond the function limitation of the copying machine alone can be performed, the operation can be set without the operator being aware of the function limitation of each copying machine.

In the above copying machine, the data transfer means substitutes a part of the work when the work time of the work set in the copy machine exceeds a predetermined time, for example, when it exceeds 20 minutes. It can be distributed to devices. Work that would take an excessive amount of time if executed by a single copier alone can be greatly reduced by transferring a portion of the output data to an alternative output device and working together. .

According to the method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine of the present invention, in a copying machine such as a digital copying machine connected to a network, each function of the copying machine can be replaced.
An output device that stores output devices such as an AX and a printer, and that can use a part or all of the function when the function is insufficient or unavailable when using the function of the copier. LCD or CRT
And the like, and an output device selected by a touch panel or the like from among the displayed output devices is designated as an output destination as a substitute output device. In this way, even if a failure occurs in the copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device to replace the function of the copying machine. Also, the output can be performed by another alternative output device, so that the output time is shortened and the work efficiency is improved. Further, since the transfer destination is displayed, the document output at the transfer destination is not lost.

In the above-mentioned method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, a layout image indicating an arrangement of the output device is displayed on display means, and an icon indicating the output device is displayed on the input / output device on the layout image. Display at a position corresponding to the actual arrangement position of the icon, display the selected icon separately from other icons by reverse display or the like, and designate the output device corresponding to the selected icon as an output destination. Is preferred. When transferring data, the alternative output device of the transfer destination is displayed on the layout diagram, so that the transfer destination can be easily understood and the document output at the transfer destination can be quickly acquired.

In the above-mentioned method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, all output devices capable of alternative output are displayed on the display means, and the output device is selected from all output devices capable of alternative output. It is preferable to select an output device that is closest to the output device. The distance can be determined from the position of the icon on the layout diagram. Since the copying machine automatically selects the alternative output device closest to the own device, the operator can select the optimal alternative output device by a simple operation.

In the above-mentioned method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, the output device selected by the copying machine can be changed by, for example, pressing a touch panel by an operator, and another output device can be selected. Is preferred. Since the operator can change the alternative output device, the most convenient output device can be selected.

In the above-mentioned method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, if the work set in the own machine exceeds the function of the own machine, for example, even if the upper limit of the sort copy is 10, 20 sorts are performed. When copying is instructed,
Part of the work can be assigned to an alternative output device. Even for tasks that cannot be performed by a single copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device via a network, and the user and the alternative output device can work together. Therefore, work time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. In addition, since setting beyond the function limitation of the copying machine alone can be performed, the operation can be set without the operator being aware of the function limitation of each copying machine.

In the above-mentioned method of designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, a part of the work is replaced when the work time of the work set in the own machine exceeds a predetermined time, for example, when it exceeds 20 minutes. It can be assigned to the output device. Work that would take an excessive amount of time if executed by a single copier alone can be greatly reduced by transferring a portion of the output data to an alternative output device and working together. .

[0032]

【Example】

[Embodiment 1] An embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. First, a first embodiment, which is the first embodiment, will be described. FIG. 1 illustrates a network configuration that is a premise of the first embodiment. Communication media 1 of a LAN (local area network) in an office or the like includes a personal computer (hereinafter, referred to as a personal computer) and input / output devices such as a printer, a facsimile machine (hereinafter, referred to as a facsimile), and a digital copying machine. It is connected. Here, six personal computers (PC server 10, personal computers A11 to E15), three printers (printers A21 to C23) and one fax (FAX) are used as LAN communication medium 1.
31) and two digital copiers (digital copier A4
1, a digital copying machine B42) and two scanners (scanner A51, scanner B52).

Among the six personal computers, the PC server 10 is a server dedicated machine, and includes a CPU having a larger processing capacity than other personal computers and a large-capacity fixed disk device. The print data from each personal computer is temporarily spooled in the personal computer that has issued the print instruction, and then sent to any of the printers on the LAN via the communication medium 1 according to the scheduling. Specifically, a communication cable, wireless communication, optical fiber, or the like can be used as the communication medium 1.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing the configuration of the digital copying machine A41. The digital copier A41 includes a scanner unit 41.
6 and a printer unit 417, and the parts other than the scanner unit 416 and the printer unit 417 constitute a controller unit.
The controller unit includes a CPU 410 and a bus 411, a RAM 412 and a ROM 414 as main memories, an NVRAM 413 as a nonvolatile RAM for storing user setting information set by an operator, and a fixed disk device 41.
5, an operation panel 43, an interface circuit for connecting the scanner unit 416, an interface circuit for connecting the printer unit 417, and a communication control unit (NC
U) 418, network interface circuit 419
Are connected to the CPU 410 via the bus 411.

The CPU 410 executes various programs loaded on the RAM 412, and performs various processes and controls peripheral devices. The display data in the RAM 412 is displayed on the liquid crystal display 431. Fixed disk unit 4
Reference numeral 15 is for storing various programs, data, and various files to be loaded into the RAM 412. A disk device such as a magneto-optical disk device or a flexible disk device that can be replaced with the fixed disk device 415 or together with the fixed disk device 415 may be provided. The operation panel 43 includes a liquid crystal display 431
, A touch panel provided integrally with the liquid crystal display 431, and a plurality of keys. Input data and instructions from the operator are input from a touch panel integrated with the liquid crystal display 431 and various keys on the operation panel 43.

The communication control unit 418 exchanges FAX data with another FAX via a telephone line. Network interface circuit 419
Is a circuit for connecting the digital copying machine A41 to the communication medium 1 of the LAN. The digital copier A41 exchanges data with input / output devices and other personal computers connected to the LAN via the network interface circuit 419.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing the structure of the operation panel 43. The operation panel 43 includes a liquid crystal display 431,
A touch panel integrally provided on the liquid crystal display 431, an “external device designation” key 432, and “COPY”
A function key including a key 433, a “FAX” key 434, a “PRINT” key 435, and a “SCAN” key 436, a “START” key, a “STOP” key, and a numeric keypad are provided. The touch panel can detect the pressed position by pressing the display surface of the liquid crystal display with a finger or the like, and functions as a pointing device like a mouse.

When the function key is pressed, a screen for setting each function and a message indicating the state of the machine are displayed on the liquid crystal display. "COPY" key 433
By pressing, a screen for setting copy conditions such as the number of copies, magnification, density, and finishing, and a message screen are displayed. "FA
When the "X" key is pressed, a setting screen and a message screen for a facsimile number and a reading density of a transmission destination are displayed. "PRI
When the user presses the "NT" key, a selection screen for selecting image data to be printed from the fixed disk device 415 is displayed.
When the "SCAN" key is pressed, a selection screen for selecting a device for storing the read image data is displayed.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the software loaded in the RAM 412 and the hierarchical relationship thereof. The hierarchical relationship is
The lower level indicates a lower level, that is, a level closer to hardware. The top-level “external output device selection program” is a program started by pressing an “external device designation” key on the operation panel 43,
This is a program for specifying an output destination of image data. The digital copier A41 includes a fixed disk device 415
Can be output to an output device or a personal computer designated by the external output device selection program. The external output device selection program displays a layout diagram showing the layout of the rooms, and displays icons indicating the output devices on the layout diagram.

Below that are a “printer driver” for outputting to a printer, and a “FA” for outputting to a facsimile.
An "X driver" exists for each printer and FAX model. Data output from these drivers is temporarily stored in the fixed disk device 415 by a "spooler" to form a queue. Then, it is output to the output device according to the scheduling. The “protocol control program” controls a communication protocol on the network. That is, an instruction command to be put on a packet in a protocol such as TCP / IP is created.

FIG. 5 shows that the “external device designation” key 432 on the operation panel 43 is depressed, and the “PRINT” key 4
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display 431 when 35 is pressed. When the “specify external device” key 432 is pressed, an external output device selection program is started, and the operation panel 43 enters the selection mode. During the selection mode, the function keys function as keys for switching the type of output device to be displayed. When the “FAX” key 434 is pressed, only output devices having a FAX function are displayed, and “PRX” is displayed.
When the "INT" key 435 is pressed, only output devices having a printer function are displayed, and when the "SCAN" key 434 is pressed, only personal computers are displayed.

In FIG. 5, each output device is displayed as an icon indicating a printer. When each icon is pressed by a finger or the like, the display is inverted to be in a selected state. This is because the pressed position is detected by the touch panel. The device name of the device corresponding to the selected icon is displayed in the “selected printer” column at the bottom of the screen. Below this, unique information such as specifications of the device, that is, transmission / reception speed, and the like are displayed, and further below that, the current status of the device is displayed.

To change the icon to be selected, if the desired icon is pressed, the currently selected icon is released from the selected state, and the newly pressed icon becomes the selected state.
The printer can be selected by selecting a desired icon and pressing an “OK” button at the bottom of the screen. "O
When the “K” button or the “Cancel” button is pressed, the selection mode is canceled, and the liquid crystal display 431 displays the screen of the normal mode. If the “cancel” button is pressed, the mode returns to the normal mode without changing the settings of the output device. The image data stored in the fixed disk device 415 or the like can be output to the external output device selected here.

FIG. 6 shows that the “external device designation” key 432 on the operation panel 43 is depressed, and the “FAX” key 434
FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display 431 when is pressed. In FIG. 6, each output device is displayed as an icon indicating a facsimile. When each icon is pressed by a finger or the like, the display is inverted and the icon is selected. The device name of the device corresponding to the selected icon is displayed in the “selected F
AX ". Below this, unique information such as specifications of the device, that is, transmission / reception speed, and the like are displayed, and further below that, the current status of the device is displayed.

To change the icon to be selected, if the desired icon is pressed, the currently selected icon is released from the selected state, and the newly pressed icon becomes the selected state.
FAX selection method is to select the desired icon,
All you have to do is press the "OK" button at the bottom of the screen. When the “OK” button or the “Cancel” button is pressed, the selection mode is canceled, and the liquid crystal display 431 displays the screen of the normal mode. If the “cancel” button is pressed, the mode returns to the normal mode without changing the settings of the output device.

FIG. 7 shows a state in which the “external device designation” key 432 on the operation panel 43 is depressed, and the “SCAN” key 43
5 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display 431 when 5 is pressed. FIG. The "SCAN" key is a key for displaying a personal computer having the function of an output device in the selection mode.
On this screen, a personal computer can be designated as an output destination, and arbitrary image data stored in the fixed disk device 415 or the like can be transferred to the personal computer. In order to save the sent image data as a bitmap, an environment for executing a program for the bitmap is required, and the PC server 10, the personal computer B12, and the personal computer C13 have the function. Thus, the icons of the three devices are displayed. The method of designating the personal computer is the same as the procedure shown in the screens of FIGS.

The layout diagram displayed on the selection mode screen is created by a personal computer as shown in FIG. The created data of the layout diagram is transferred from the personal computer to the digital copier A41 and stored in the fixed disk device 415. The device information of each output device refers to the device information table stored in the fixed disk device of the personal computer as a device information table as shown in FIG. In order to speed up processing, the device information table is also converted from a personal computer to a digital copier A.
Alternatively, the data may be transferred to the fixed disk device 415.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the processing of the external output device selection program. When the “specify external device” key 432 on the operation panel 43 is pressed, an external output device selection program is started in process 101, and the operation panel 43 is set to the selection mode. The external output device selection program first executes the process 102 in the liquid crystal display 43.
1 displays a layout diagram. In the layout diagram, the type of output device to be displayed can be switched by pressing a function key.

Next, in decision 103, it is determined whether any of the icons has been pressed. If it is pressed, the process proceeds to step 104, where the icon is selected and
The unique information of the output device is acquired and the information is displayed. Since the unique information of the output device is stored in the device information table as shown in FIG. 11, that information is used. Also, the current status of the selected output device is obtained and displayed. After the process 104, the process returns to the process 102.

If it is determined in step 103 that the icon has not been pressed, the flow advances to step 105 to determine whether the "cancel" button has been pressed. If it is pressed, the selection mode is canceled without any operation, and the mode returns to the normal mode. If the "cancel" button has not been pressed, the process proceeds to decision 106,
It is determined whether the "OK" button has been pressed. If it is pressed, the process proceeds to step 107 to perform an external device selection process.
The output device corresponding to the selected icon is set as an output destination. Then, the mode returns to the normal mode. If the "OK" button is not pressed in the judgment 106, the process 10
Return to 2.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing a screen in which a layout creation program for creating a layout diagram of an office or the like where input / output devices are arranged is executed on a personal computer. When the layout creation program is executed, a window as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed on the screen of the personal computer. The layout creation program is the same as a normal image creation program, and selects an appropriate tool from the drawing tools displayed as icons at the bottom of the window to draw and create a layout diagram of an office or the like. In the layout diagram, walls, doors, desks, furniture, etc. are drawn according to the actual arrangement.

By clicking the "Save" button at the bottom of the window, the drawn layout drawing data can be saved to a fixed disk device of a personal computer or the like with an appropriate file name. By clicking the "icon arrangement" button, it is possible to proceed to a window as shown in FIG. 10 for arranging the icons on the layout diagram. Clicking the "Finish" button ends the layout creation program. At this time, if the layout diagram currently being created has not been saved yet, a message to that effect is displayed and the layout diagram can be saved again.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a window for arranging icons on the layout diagram. The layout diagram created as shown in FIG. 9 is displayed. In the icon display section at the bottom of the layout diagram, all icons necessary for creating layout diagrams of all models are arranged. An icon for each model is dragged from the icon display unit to a position corresponding to the actual arrangement of the input / output devices (moved while being clicked), and the icon is arranged at that position by releasing the click. In this way, icons are arranged corresponding to all input / output devices. After arranging the icon, when the icon is double-clicked, device information such as a device name, a driver name, a network address, and specifications of a device corresponding to the icon can be input. The information entered is
This is stored in the fixed disk device as a device information table as shown in FIG.

When the layout diagram is completed, the "save" button is clicked to save the layout diagram data under a predetermined file name, and then the "end" button is clicked to end the layout creation program. The data of the final layout diagram stored here includes data related to icon display such as the position of the icon, the device name, and the icon shape. The layout drawing data is transferred from the personal computer to the digital copying machine. The external output device selection program in the digital copying machine displays a layout diagram as shown in FIGS. 5 to 7 from the data of the layout diagram including data related to icon display.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing the contents of the device information table. The device information is input by double-clicking the icon arranged at the time of creating the layout diagram in FIG. It is also possible to correct, add, or delete device information after creating a layout diagram. For a device having a plurality of functions, device information is input by the number of functions.
For example, regarding the digital copying machine A41, device information is registered for each of the printer function and the facsimile function. One horizontal row is one piece of device information. From the driver name in the device information table, it can be determined which device information is related to the printer function or the facsimile function.

To switch from the display of all models in the layout diagram created as shown in FIG. 10 to the display of the printer as shown in FIG. 5, a device having a printer function is searched from the device information table of FIG. Only the devices having are displayed with the printer icon. 6 and 7
The display for each model as described above can be similarly performed. The device information table created on the personal computer as described above is transferred to each digital copying machine and stored in the fixed disk device 415.

The data of the layout diagram and the data of the device information table described above may be stored in each of the personal computers A11 to E15 and each of the digital copying machines A41 and B42. They can be stored and managed collectively. When collective management is performed by the PC server, correction operations such as deletion, insertion, and change become easy. The layout diagram on the PC server 10 and the data in the device information table can be freely referenced from each personal computer and each digital copying machine.

The digital copying machine B42 is also a digital copying machine A
The configuration is the same as that of the operation panel 41, and has the same operation panel as the operation panel 43. FIG. 12 shows a digital copying machine B42.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display of the operation panel in a case where subsequent output becomes impossible due to a paper jam, out of paper, etc. during FAX reception. The liquid crystal display of the digital copier B42 includes a digital copier B42.
Is displayed in a state in which the FAX data cannot be output, and a display is displayed to ask the operator whether to transfer the received FAX data to another output device having a FAX function.

On the layout diagram of the screen, all icons representing the digital copier B42 itself and icons representing output devices that can replace the function in which the fault has occurred are displayed. The icon indicating oneself is displayed so as to be distinguished from others by blinking display, changing the display color, and the like. The digital copying machine B42 reversely displays the icon as a selected state of the output device closest to itself from the alternative output devices. In FIG. 12, the digital copying machine A41 is selected. The magnitude of the distance between the output devices is determined based on the distance between the icons on the layout diagram.

The alternative output device automatically selected by the digital copying machine B42 can be changed by the operator.
Although the digital copying machine A is selected in FIG. 12, the operator can change the alternative output destination to another output device by pressing another icon. For example, if the operator
When a server is selected, "PC server" is displayed in the display area of "selected FAX", and "Will output to PC server?" Is displayed below it. When changing the selection,
Naturally, the digital copying machine B cannot be selected.

If the "Transfer" button is pressed while the output device is selected, the fax data is transferred to the selected output device, and an alternative operation is performed. By performing the substitute operation, the output time can be shortened because the output can be performed by another substitute output device while eliminating the trouble that has occurred by eliminating paper jams, replenishing paper, etc. Work efficiency is improved. If you do not want the fax data to be transferred to another output device, clear the jam, remove paper, replenish the paper, etc.
I press the button. Then, the digital copier B resumes the output without transferring the FAX data.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display during data transfer when the "transfer" button is pressed in FIG. At the bottom of the screen, a message "Transferring to Copier A." is displayed. When the data transfer is completed or the “confirm” button is pressed, this screen is erased and the liquid crystal display returns to the normal mode screen.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing for selecting an alternative output device due to a failure at the time of facsimile reception. When a FAX arrives at the digital copying machine, judgment 201
It is determined whether or not reception is possible. If reception is impossible due to a failure or the like, the line is disconnected in process 202 and the FA
The X incoming call processing ends. If it is determined in step 201 that the fax data can be received, the process proceeds to step 203 to receive the fax data and
M or fixed disk device. In parallel with the process 203, the processes after the judgment 204 are also performed.

In the judgment 204, it is judged whether or not the printer unit of the digital copying machine B can output. If output is possible, the process proceeds to step 205, where the received fax data is sequentially output to the printer unit. After the processing 205, the judgment 20
At 6, it is determined whether or not an error has occurred during output. The error is caused by a paper jam, running out of paper, or the like.
If the FAX data is output to the end without generating an error, the FAX incoming call processing ends.

If it is determined in the determination 204 that the printer unit cannot output data, and if an error occurs in the printer unit in the determination 206, the process proceeds to step 207 and the liquid crystal display of the operation panel as shown in FIG. Display the layout diagram. Further, referring to the device information table shown in FIG. 11, an output device capable of performing an alternative operation of the own device is searched, and icons of all output devices capable of performing the alternative operation are displayed on the layout diagram. Next, in process 208, from among all the output devices that can perform alternative operations, a device closest to the own device is searched, and the icon of the output device is inverted to be in a selected state. Here, the screen is as shown in FIG.

In the next judgment 209, it is judged whether the "transfer" button or the "output restart" button has been pressed on the screen shown in FIG. If the error is released and the “resume output” button is pressed, the process 205
Proceed to and restart the output on the own device. If it is determined in step 209 that the "transfer" button has been pressed, the flow advances to step 210 to execute the transfer of the FAX data. The transfer destination is the alternative output device selected in the screen of FIG. When the transfer is started, the screen becomes as shown in FIG. In the next decision 211, F
It is determined whether the transfer of the AX data has been completed or whether the “confirmation” button has been pressed on the screen of FIG. If the transfer is in progress and the “confirmation” button has not been pressed, the process returns to decision 211 and repeats the loop. When the transfer is completed or the "confirmation" button is pressed, processing 2
Proceed to 12 to delete the layout diagram and return to the normal mode,
The fax reception processing ends.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display of the operation panel when the digital copier B42 cannot output the data due to a paper jam during the copy operation or the paper runs out. Digital copier B42
Displays that the digital copier B42 is currently in an output-disabled state, and displays a message asking the operator whether to transfer unoutputted image data to another output device having a printer function. Have been.

On the layout diagram of the screen, all icons indicating the digital copier B42 itself and icons indicating output devices that can replace the function in which the fault has occurred are displayed. The icon indicating oneself is displayed so as to be distinguished from others by blinking display, changing the display color, and the like. The digital copying machine B42 reversely displays the icon as a selected state of the output device closest to itself from the alternative output devices. FIG. 15 shows a state in which the printer C23 has been selected, but the operator has changed the alternative output device to the printer A21.

In this state, if the "Transfer" button is pressed, the unoutput image data is transferred to the selected output device, and the alternative operation is performed. By performing the substitute operation, the output time can be shortened because the output can be performed by another substitute output device while eliminating the trouble that has occurred by eliminating paper jams, replenishing paper, etc. Work efficiency is improved. If the user does not want the image data to be transferred to another output device, the user clears the paper jam and replenishes the paper to eliminate the trouble that has occurred, and then presses the “resume output” button. Then, the digital copying machine B resumes the output without transferring the image data.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display during data transfer when the "transfer" button is pressed in FIG. "Transferring to Printer A." is displayed at the bottom of the screen. When the data transfer is completed or the “confirm” button is pressed, this screen is erased and the liquid crystal display returns to the normal mode screen.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing for selecting an alternative output device due to a failure during a copy operation. When a copy operation is started in the digital copying machine, first, in a process 301, a copy function setting process is performed. The next process 302 represents a start instruction by the operator.

In the judgment 303, it is judged whether or not the printer of the digital copying machine B can output. If output is possible, the process proceeds to step 304 to output image data read by the scanner unit to the printer unit. Subsequent to the process 304, it is determined in a determination 305 whether an error has occurred at the time of output. The error is caused by a paper jam, running out of paper, or the like. If all the image data is output without any error, the copy operation process is terminated.

If it is determined in step 303 that the printer unit cannot output data, or if an error occurs in the printer unit in step 305, the process proceeds to step 306, where the liquid crystal display on the operation panel as shown in FIG. Display the layout diagram. Further, referring to the device information table shown in FIG. 11, an output device capable of performing an alternative operation of the own device is searched, and icons of all output devices capable of performing the alternative operation are displayed on the layout diagram. Next, in a process 307, from all the output devices that can perform the alternative operations, a device closest to the own device is searched, and the icon of the output device is inverted to be in a selected state.

In the next judgment 308, it is judged whether the "transfer" button has been pressed on the screen of FIG. 15 or the "output resume" button has been pressed. If the error is released and the “output resume” button is pressed, the processing 304
Proceed to and restart the output on the own device. If it is determined in step 308 that the "transfer" button has been pressed, the flow advances to step 309 to execute image data transfer. The transfer destination is an alternative output device selected in the screen of FIG. When the transfer is started, the screen becomes as shown in FIG. In the next decision 310, it is decided whether or not the transfer of the image data has been completed, or whether or not the "confirmation" button has been pressed on the screen of FIG. If the transfer is in progress and the “confirmation” button has not been pressed, the process returns to decision 310 and repeats the loop. When the transfer is completed or the "confirmation" button is pressed, the flow advances to step 311 to delete the layout diagram, return to the normal mode, and end the copy operation process.

According to the first embodiment described above, even if a failure occurs in the digital copying machine, the data can be transferred to the alternative output device to replace the function of the digital copying machine. Output can be performed by another alternative output device while removing the fault that has occurred in
Output time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. When transferring data, the alternative output device at the transfer destination is displayed on the layout diagram, so that the output document does not go missing. The transfer destination is easy to understand, and the document output at the transfer destination can be quickly acquired.

Since the digital copying machine automatically selects the substitute output device closest to the digital copying machine, the operator can select the optimal substitute output device by a simple operation of simply pressing the "transfer" button. Also, since the operator can change the alternative output device, the most convenient output device can be selected. Further, since the operator can also select whether or not to perform the transfer, the operator can select the most appropriate operation according to the situation at the place.

Second Embodiment Next, a second embodiment will be described. The basic configuration is common to the first embodiment. Example 1
Is related to the process of selecting an alternative output device when a failure occurs in the digital copying machine. However, in the second embodiment, when the setting of the copy function etc. exceeds To achieve a function set by the operator in cooperation with the alternative output device. For example, the digital copying machine A41 and the digital copying machine B42 have a sorting tray of 10 bins, and the digital copying machine A4
A case will be described in which 20 copies are instructed for one copy. Since the digital copier A41 cannot be executed by itself, the own machine executes a sort copy of 10 copies,
By transferring the image data to the digital copier B42 and instructing the digital copier B42 to sort and copy 10 copies, 20 copies can be collaboratively copied.

FIG. 18 shows a display on the liquid crystal display 431 of the operation panel 43 when an operation that cannot be executed alone is set in the digital copying machine A41. The screen indicates that the digital copier A41 is currently incapable of outputting by itself, and displays a message asking the operator whether to transfer image data to another output device having a sorting function. . On the layout diagram of the screen, all icons representing the digital copier A41 itself and icons representing output devices that can perform work in cooperation are displayed. The icon indicating oneself is displayed so as to be distinguished from the others by blinking display or the like. The digital copier B42 is automatically selected, and the icon is highlighted. When there are a plurality of alternative output devices, the device having the shortest distance from the own device may be selected from among them.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in the second embodiment. When a copy operation is started in the digital copying machine, first, in a process 501, a copy function setting process is performed. The next process 502 represents a start instruction by the operator. In the determination 503, it is determined whether the set work can be output alone. If output is possible, the process proceeds to step 504 to output image data read by the scanner unit to the printer unit. When the process 504 ends, the copy operation process ends.

If it is determined in step 503 that the output cannot be made by itself, the flow advances to step 505 to display a layout diagram as shown in FIG. 18 on the liquid crystal display of the operation panel. Further, referring to the device information table, a search is made for alternative output devices that can execute the work of the own device jointly, and icons of all the alternative output devices are displayed on the layout diagram. The device information table according to the second embodiment stores, in addition to the information as shown in FIG. 11, information on whether or not sorting is possible, information on the maximum number of copies that can be sorted if possible, and the like. Next, in the process 506, a device closest to the own device is searched from all the output devices that can perform alternative operations, and the icon of the output device is inverted to be in a selected state.

In the next judgment 507, it is judged whether the "transfer" button or the "stop" button has been pressed on the screen of FIG. If the “Cancel” button is pressed, the processing of the copy operation is terminated, and the setting of the work is restarted from the beginning. If it is determined in step 507 that the “transfer” button has been pressed, the flow advances to step 508 to execute the transfer of the image data to the alternative output device, and instruct the sort operation. At the same time, output and sort work on own machine are executed.

When the transfer is started, the message field on the screen of FIG. 18 displays "Output is performed by copying machine A and copying machine B" and a "confirm" button. In the next judgment 509, it is determined whether or not the transfer of the image data has been completed.
Determine whether the button has been pressed. If the transfer is in progress and the “confirm” button has not been pressed, the judgment 5
Return to step 09 and repeat the loop. When the transfer is completed or the “confirmation” button is pressed, the process proceeds to step 510 to delete the layout diagram, return to the normal mode, and end the copy operation process.

In the second embodiment, the case where the work is shared by two digital copying machines has been described. However, the work can be shared by three or more digital copying machines. In addition, when the work is shared, the case where the work amount is simply divided is described. However, when there is a considerable difference in the printing speed, the sorting speed, and the like, it is preferable to distribute the work amount in proportion to the work speed. Then, the distributed work ends at each output device at the same time, and the overall work time is reduced.

According to the second embodiment described above, since a single digital copier cannot be executed, even if the operation has to be reset or executed in several steps, the operation is performed via the network. Then, the data can be transferred to the alternative output device, and the user and the alternative output device can work together. Therefore, work time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. Further, since the setting can be performed beyond the function limitation of the digital copying machine alone, the operation can be set without the operator being aware of the function limitation of each digital copying machine.

Third Embodiment Next, a third embodiment will be described. The basic configuration is common to the first and second embodiments. Third Embodiment In the third embodiment, when it takes too much time to perform settings such as copying work by itself, a part of output data is transferred and work is performed in cooperation with an alternative output device to shorten work time. It is assumed that. For example, a case will be described in which the digital copying machine A41 has a sort bin of 10 bins, and the 80-page, 10-copy sorting copy is instructed to the digital copying machine A41. Since the digital copying machine A41 can output 20 sheets per minute,
It takes 40 minutes to output × 10 = 800 sheets independently. Then, the image data for the second half of the 40 pages is transferred to the digital copying machine B42, and the digital copying machine B42 is also instructed to sort and copy 10 copies.
Working together, the copying process can be completed in about half the time.

FIG. 20 shows a display on the liquid crystal display 431 of the operation panel 43 in a case where an operation requiring an excessively long time is set alone in the digital copying machine A41. On the screen, the operation time when the digital copying machine A41 outputs alone is displayed, and a display asking the operator whether to transfer the image data to another alternative output device is displayed. On the layout diagram of the screen, all icons representing the digital copier A41 itself and icons representing output devices that can perform work in cooperation are displayed. The icon indicating oneself is displayed so as to be distinguished from the others by blinking display or the like. The digital copier B42 is automatically selected, and the icon is highlighted. When there are a plurality of alternative output devices, the device having the shortest distance from the own device may be selected from among them.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart showing the flow of processing in the third embodiment. When a copy operation is started in the digital copying machine, first, in a process 601, a copy function setting process is performed. The next process 602 represents a start instruction by the operator. In the determination 603, it is determined whether or not the work time when the set work is output alone exceeds the upper limit value. As the upper limit, for example, about 20 minutes is set in advance. If the work time is within the upper limit, the process proceeds to step 604, where the image data read by the scanner unit is output to the printer unit. Process 60
When step 4 is completed, the copy operation process ends.

If it is determined in decision 603 that the work time alone exceeds the upper limit value, the process proceeds to step 605, where a layout diagram as shown in FIG. 20 is displayed on the liquid crystal display of the operation panel. Further, referring to the device information table, a search is made for alternative output devices that can execute the work of the own device jointly, and icons of all the alternative output devices are displayed on the layout diagram. The device information table according to the third embodiment stores, in addition to the information as shown in FIG. 11, information on whether or not sorting is possible, and information on the maximum number of copies that can be sorted if possible. Next, in a process 606, from among all the output devices that can perform alternative operations, a device closest to the own device is searched, and the icon of the output device is inverted to be in a selected state.

In the next judgment 607, it is judged whether the "transfer" button or the "continue" button has been pressed on the screen shown in FIG. If the “Continue” button is pressed, the process 6 is performed to continue the copy operation alone.
In step 04, the image data read by the scanner unit is output to the printer unit. If the "transfer" button is pressed in the determination 607, the process proceeds to step 608 to execute the transfer of the image data to the alternative output device, and instruct the sort operation. At the same time, output and sort work on own machine are executed.

When the transfer is started, the message column on the screen shown in FIG. 20 displays "output is performed by copying machine A and copying machine B" and a "confirm" button. In the next judgment 609, it is determined whether or not the transfer of the image data has been completed, or "Confirmation" is displayed on the screen.
Determine whether the button has been pressed. If the transfer is in progress and the “confirm” button has not been pressed, the judgment 6 is made again.
Return to step 09 and repeat the loop. When the transfer is completed or the "confirmation" button is pressed, the flow advances to step 610 to delete the layout diagram, return to the normal mode, and end the copy operation process.

In the third embodiment, the case where the work is shared by two digital copying machines has been described. However, the work can be shared by three or more digital copying machines. In addition, when the work is shared, the case where the work amount is simply divided is described. However, when there is a considerable difference in the printing speed, the sorting speed, and the like, it is preferable to distribute the work amount in proportion to the work speed. Then, the distributed work ends at each output device at the same time, and the overall work time is reduced.

According to the third embodiment described above, work that would take an excessive amount of time if executed by the digital copier alone can be performed by transferring a part of output data to an alternative output device and working jointly. , The working time can be greatly reduced.

In the above-described first to third embodiments, the display of the alternative output device and the display of its position are displayed by icons and layout diagrams. However, the present invention is not limited to such a graphic display but a character display such as a list. May be displayed. However, from the point of viewability of the display for the operator, display by icons and layout diagrams is preferable. Further, the selection of the alternative output device by the digital copying machine is made to prioritize a device having a short distance from the own device, but a device having a large processing speed such as a printing speed and a sorting speed may be prioritized. Further, the operator may be able to select which is to be prioritized.

[0094]

Since the present invention is configured as described above, it has the following effects.

Even if a failure occurs in the digital copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device to replace the function of the digital copying machine. Also, the output can be performed by another alternative output device, so that the output time is shortened and the work efficiency is improved. Further, since the transfer destination is displayed, the document output at the transfer destination is not lost.

When data is transferred, the alternative output device of the transfer destination is displayed on the layout diagram, so that the transfer destination can be easily understood and the document output at the transfer destination can be quickly obtained.

Since the digital copying machine automatically selects the alternative output device closest to the digital copying machine, the operator can select the optimum alternative output device by a simple operation of simply pressing the "transfer" button.

The operator can change the alternative output device, so that the most convenient output device can be selected.

Even for tasks that cannot be performed by a single digital copying machine, data can be transferred to an alternative output device via a network, and work can be performed jointly between the own device and the alternative output device. Therefore, work time is shortened and work efficiency is improved. Further, since the setting can be performed beyond the function limitation of the digital copying machine alone, the operation can be set without the operator being aware of the function limitation of each digital copying machine.

Work that would take an excessive amount of time to be performed by a digital copier alone can be greatly reduced by transferring part of the output data to an alternative output device and working together. can do.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a network which is a premise of a first embodiment.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a digital copying machine A;

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an operation panel of the digital copying machine A;

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing software loaded on a RAM of the digital copying machine A and a hierarchical relationship between the software.

FIG. 5 is a diagram showing a display on a liquid crystal display for selecting an external printer.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a display on a liquid crystal display for selecting an external fax.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing a display on a liquid crystal display for selecting a personal computer.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of an external output device selection process according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 9 is a view showing a window on which a layout creation program is executed on a personal computer.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing a window for arranging icons in a layout creation program.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing contents of a device information table.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a display on a liquid crystal display when a failure occurs during FAX reception.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a display on a liquid crystal display during data transfer.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of selecting an alternative output device when receiving a facsimile according to the first embodiment.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a display on a liquid crystal display when a failure occurs during copying.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display during data transfer.

FIG. 17 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of selecting an alternative output device at the time of copying according to the first exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a display on a liquid crystal display according to the second embodiment.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of selecting an alternative output device at the time of copying according to the second exemplary embodiment.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a display on the liquid crystal display in the third embodiment.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of a process of selecting an alternative output device at the time of copying according to the third exemplary embodiment.

[Explanation of symbols]

 DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Communication medium 10 PC server 11 Personal computer A 12 Personal computer B 13 Personal computer C 14 Personal computer D 15 Personal computer E 21 Printer A 22 Printer B 23 Printer C 31 FAX 41 Digital copying machine A 42 Digital copying machine B 51 Scanner A 52 Scanner B

──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continued on the front page (51) Int.Cl. ⁶ Identification code FI H04N 1/00 H04N 1/00 C

Claims (8)

[Claims] 1. An output capable of distributing a part or all of a function of a copying machine connected to a network when the function is insufficient or unavailable when the function of the copying machine is used. A program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine for executing a procedure of displaying an apparatus on a display means and a procedure of designating an output device selected from the displayed output devices as an output destination as an alternative output device Recording medium on which is recorded. 2. A recording medium recording a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine according to claim 1, wherein the program displays a layout image indicating an arrangement of the output device on a display unit. A step of displaying an icon indicating an output device at a position corresponding to the actual arrangement position of the input / output device on the layout image; a step of displaying the selected icon separately from other icons; A recording medium storing a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, the program including a partial program for executing a procedure of designating the output device corresponding to the icon as an output destination. 3. A recording medium on which a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine according to claim 2 is recorded, wherein said program displays all output devices capable of alternative output on said display means; A recording medium for recording a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, including a partial program for executing a procedure of selecting an output device closest to the own device from all output devices capable of alternative output. 4. The recording medium according to claim 3, wherein a program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is recorded, wherein the program changes an output device selected by the copying machine by an operator and outputs another output device. A recording medium recording a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, the program including a partial program for executing a procedure for enabling selection of a device. 5. The recording medium according to claim 1, wherein a program specified for an alternative output device in the copying machine is stored in a storage medium. A recording medium that stores a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, the program including a partial program for executing a procedure of allocating a part of the work to the alternative output device when the number exceeds the limit. 6. A recording medium according to claim 1, wherein the program for designating an alternative output device in the copying machine is stored in a storage medium. A recording medium storing a program for designating an alternative output device in a copying machine, the program including a partial program for executing a procedure of distributing a part of the work to the alternative output device when the time exceeds the time. 7. A device information table storage means (41) for storing a device information table which stores output devices which can replace each function of the copier, which is a copier connected to a network.
5) display means (43) for displaying a device display indicating the output device.
1) When the function of the own device is used, if the function is insufficient or unavailable, a device display corresponding to an output device capable of distributing a part or all of the function is displayed on the display means. And a data transfer means for outputting work data with an output device corresponding to the device display selected from the device displays as an alternative output device as an output destination. 8. In a copying machine connected to a network, an output device that can substitute for each function of the copying machine is stored, and when the function of the copying machine is used, the function is insufficient or unavailable. In such a case, an output device capable of distributing a part or all of the function is displayed on the display means, and an output device selected from the displayed output devices is designated as an output destination as an alternative output device. Method of specifying an alternative output device for a failed copier.