Image forming apparatus, method for resolving misconnection, and program for resolving misconnection

Abstract

To assist with the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port. [Solution] The image forming apparatus includes a first connection detection unit 51 and a second connection detection unit 53 that detect the connection of a first network cable to a network port, an association unit 55 that associates a network with a network port, a misconnection detection unit 57 that detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port, a connection count determination unit 59 that determines whether there are multiple network ports, and a misconnection resolution unit 61 that, if a misconnection is detected, executes a process to resolve the misconnection based on the determination result by the connection count determination unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, a method for eliminating incorrect connection, and an incorrect connection elimination program, and more particularly to an image forming apparatus connectable to a network, a method for eliminating incorrect connection executed by the image forming apparatus, and an incorrect connection elimination program for causing a computer to execute the method for eliminating incorrect connection.

[0002] There is known an image forming apparatus provided with a plurality of communication interfaces respectively connected to a plurality of networks. Depending on the type of information flowing through the network, there may be differences in security level settings and the like. Therefore, set values may be set corresponding to each of the plurality of networks.

[0003] On the other hand, when the image forming apparatus is moved or the like, the network cable connected to the image forming apparatus may be removed from the network port and reconnected. When reconnecting after moving the image forming apparatus, the network cable may be connected to a network port different from the network port to which it was connected before the movement. In this case, the combination of the network cable and the network port will be different before and after the movement of the image forming apparatus. Therefore, the settings for the network will be different.

[0004] For example, Japanese Patent Publication No. 9-37551 describes a method for correcting network misconnections in a terminal device having multiple interfaces, each assigned an address of a connected network. When a packet is received on the first interface, the address of the source interface of the received packet is compared with the address of the first interface. If these addresses are not equal, the pair of unequal addresses is registered in an unconfirmed misconnection list. Next, when a packet is received on the second interface, the address of the source interface of the received packet is compared with the address of the second interface. If these addresses are not equal and the relative positions of the two addresses registered in the unconfirmed misconnection list are reversed, it is determined that the first interface and the second interface are misconnected, resulting in a crossover of connected networks. The address settings of the first interface and the second interface are then swapped to correct the misconnection.

[0005] However, image forming apparatuses do not necessarily have multiple interfaces. Furthermore, the image forming apparatus described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 9-37551 assumes that two network addresses are connected, so if only one of the two interfaces is used, it is not possible to detect a misconnection. [Prior art documents] [Patent Documents]

[0006] [Patent Document 1] Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 9-37551 [Overview of the project] [Problems that the invention aims to solve]

[0007] This invention was made to solve the above-mentioned problems, and one of its objectives is to provide an image forming apparatus that can assist in the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port.

[0008] Another object of this invention is to provide a method for resolving misconnections that can assist in the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port.

[0009] Another object of this invention is to provide a misconnection correction program that can assist in the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] In order to achieve the above-mentioned objective, according to one aspect of the present invention, the image forming apparatus comprises: a connection detection unit for detecting the connection of a first network cable to a network port; an association unit for associating a network with a network port; a misconnection detection unit for detecting a misconnection in which a network corresponding to a second network cable connected to a network port is not associated with the network port; a connection count determination unit for determining whether there are multiple network ports; and, if a misconnection is detected, a misconnection resolution unit for executing a process to resolve the misconnection based on the determination result by the connection count determination unit.

[0011] According to another aspect of this invention, a method for resolving a misconnection is a method for resolving a misconnection performed in an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, and includes: a connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to a network port; an association step for associating a network with a network port; a misconnection detection step for detecting a misconnection in which a network corresponding to a second network cable connected to a network port is not associated with the network port; a connection count determination step for determining whether there are multiple network ports; and, if a misconnection is detected, a misconnection resolving step for performing a process to resolve the misconnection based on the determination result in the connection count determination step.

[0012] According to another aspect of this invention, the misconnection elimination program is a misconnection elimination program executed by a computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, and causes the computer to execute: a connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to a network port; an association step for associating a network with a network port; a misconnection detection step for detecting a misconnection in which a network corresponding to a second network cable connected to a network port is not associated with the network port; a connection count determination step for determining whether there are multiple network ports; and, if a misconnection is detected, a misconnection elimination step for executing a process to eliminate the misconnection based on the determination result in the connection count determination step. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0013] [Figure 1] This figure shows an example of an overall overview of an image forming system in an embodiment of the present invention. [Figure 2] This is a schematic cross-sectional view illustrating an example of the internal structure of an MFP. [Figure 3] This block diagram shows an overview of the hardware configuration of the MFP in this embodiment. [Figure 4] This block diagram shows an example of the functions of the MFP in this embodiment. [Figure 5] This is an example of a warning screen. [Figure 6] This figure shows an example of related information before the change. [Figure 7] This figure shows an example of related information after the swap. [Figure 8] This flowchart shows an example of the process for resolving misconnections. [Figure 9] This flowchart shows an example of the misconnection detection process. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0014] Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, identical parts are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same. Therefore, detailed descriptions of them will not be repeated.

[0015] Figure 1 is a diagram showing an example of an overall overview of an image forming system in an embodiment of the present invention. Referring to Figure 1, the image forming system 1 includes an MFP 100, first PCs 200, 200A to 200C, first server 250, second PCs 300, 300A to 300C, and second server 350. The first PCs 200, 200A to 200C and the second PCs 300, 300A to 300C are personal computers. Their hardware and software configurations are well known, so a detailed explanation will not be repeated here. The first server 250 and the second server 350 are general-purpose computers. Their hardware and software configurations are well known, so a detailed explanation will not be repeated here.

[0016] The MFP100 is connected to the first network 3 via the first LAN cable 5. The first PCs 200, 200A-200C and the first server 250 are connected to the first network 3. Therefore, the MFP100 can communicate with the first PCs 200, 200A-200C and the first server 250 via the first network 3. Users of the first PCs 200, 200A-200C can operate the first PCs 200, 200A-200C to have the MFP100 perform tasks. The first server 250 functions as a DHCP (Dynamic Host Configuration Protocol) server and assigns IP addresses to the MFP100 and the first PCs 200, 200A-200C, each connected to the first network 3.

[0017] The second PCs 300, 300A to 300C and the second server 350 are connected to the second network 7. Therefore, the second PCs 300, 300A to 300C and the second server 350 can communicate with each other via the second network 7. The second server 350 functions as a DHCP server and assigns an IP address to each of the first PCs 200, 200A to 200C connected to the second network 7. Also, when the MFP 100 is connected to the second network 7, the second server 350 assigns an IP address to the MFP 100.

[0018] The first network 3 and the second network 7 are local area networks (LANs). Note that the second network 7 may be not only a LAN but also the Internet or a wide area network (WAN).

[0019] The MFP 100 has a plurality of communication interfaces. Therefore, the MFP 100 may be connected to the second network 7 while being connected to the first network 3 via the first LAN cable 5. The MFP 100 is connected to the second network 7 via the second LAN cable 9. When the MFP 100 is connected to the second LAN cable 9, an IP address is assigned by the second server 350. Then, the users of the second PCs 300, 300A to 300C can use the MFP​​​​​​​​

[0022] The document scanning unit 130 exposes the image of the document placed on the document glass 11 to an exposure lamp 13 attached to a slider 12 that moves below it. The reflected light from the document is guided to the lens 16 by a mirror 14 and two reflective mirrors 15, 15A, and an image is formed on the CCD (Charge Coupled Devices) sensor 18.

[0023] The reflected light formed on the CCD sensor 18 is converted into image data as an electrical signal within the CCD sensor 18. The image data is converted into printable data for cyan (C), magenta (M), yellow (Y), and black (K), and output to the image forming unit 140.

[0024] The image forming unit 140 includes image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. Here, "Y", "M", "C", and "K" represent yellow, magenta, cyan, and black, respectively. An image is formed when at least one of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K is driven. A full-color image is formed when all of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K are driven. Printing data for yellow, magenta, cyan, and black are input to the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K, respectively. The only difference between the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K is the color of the toner they handle, so here we will describe the image forming unit 20Y for forming a yellow image.

[0025] The image forming unit 20Y comprises an exposure device 21Y, a photoreceptor drum 23Y, a charging roller 22Y, a developer 24Y, and a primary transfer roller 25Y. The charging roller 22Y, exposure device 21Y, developer 24Y, primary transfer roller 25Y, and drum cleaning blade 27Y are arranged sequentially around the photoreceptor drum 23Y along the rotational direction of the photoreceptor drum 23Y. The exposure device 21Y receives data for printing yellow. The photoreceptor drum 23Y is the image carrier. The charging roller 22Y uniformly charges the surface of the photoreceptor drum 23Y. The primary transfer roller 25Y transfers the toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y onto the intermediate transfer belt 30, which is the image carrier, by the action of an electric field force.

[0026] The photoreceptor drum 23Y is charged by the charging roller 22Y, and then irradiated with laser light emitted by the exposure device 21Y. The exposure device 21Y exposes the image-corresponding portion of the surface of the photoreceptor drum 23Y. This forms an electrostatic latent image on the photoreceptor drum 23Y. Subsequently, the developer 24Y develops the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y with charged toner. Specifically, toner is placed on the electrostatic latent image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y by the action of an electric field force, thereby forming a toner image on the photoreceptor drum 23Y. The toner image formed on the photoreceptor drum 23Y is transferred onto the intermediate transfer belt 30, which is an image carrier, by the action of an electric field force using the primary transfer roller 25Y. Toner that remains on the photoreceptor drum 23Y without being transferred is removed from the photoreceptor drum 23Y by the drum cleaning blade 27Y.

[0027] The intermediate transfer belt 30 is suspended by a drive roller 33 and a driven roller 34 to prevent slack. When the drive roller 33 rotates counterclockwise in the figure, the intermediate transfer belt 30 rotates counterclockwise in the figure at a predetermined speed. As the intermediate transfer belt 30 rotates, the driven roller 34 rotates counterclockwise.

[0028] As a result, the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K sequentially transfer toner images onto the intermediate transfer belt 30. The timing at which each of the image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K transfers toner images onto the intermediate transfer belt 30 is adjusted based on the detection of reference marks attached to the intermediate transfer belt 30. As a result, yellow, magenta, cyan, and black toner images are superimposed onto the intermediate transfer belt 30.

[0029] Paper cassettes 35 and 35A are each loaded with paper of different sizes. The paper stored in paper cassettes 35 and 35A is supplied to the transport path by the ejection rollers 36 and 36A attached to paper cassettes 35 and 35A, respectively, and then sent to the timing roller 31 by the paper feed roller 37.

[0030] The paper, transported by the timing roller 31, is carried to the nip section where the intermediate transfer belt 30 and the secondary transfer belt 26 meet. The toner image formed on the intermediate transfer belt 30 is transferred to the paper by the action of an electric field by the secondary transfer belt 26, which is a transfer member. The paper with the transferred toner image is transported to the fuser roller 32, where it is heated and pressurized. This melts the toner and fixes it to the paper. After that, the paper is transported to the output tray 39.

[0031] When forming a full-color image, the MFP100 drives all four image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. However, when forming a monochrome image, it drives only one of the four image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. It is also possible to form an image by combining two or more of the two image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K. Here, we will describe an example in which the MFP100 employs a tandem system equipped with image forming units 20Y, 20M, 20C, and 20K that form each of the four toners on the paper. However, the MFP100 may also form an image using a four-cycle system in which a single photosensitive drum transfers the four toners sequentially onto the paper.

[0032] Figure 3 is a block diagram illustrating the hardware configuration of the MFP in this embodiment. Referring to Figure 3, the MFP 100 includes a main circuit 110, a document reading unit 130, an automatic document transport device 120, an image forming unit 140, a paper feeding unit 150, and an operation panel 160. The operation panel 160 is the user interface.

[0033] The main circuit 110 includes a CPU 111, a ROM 113, a RAM 114, an HDD 115, a facsimile unit 116, an external storage device 117, a first communication unit 118, and a second communication unit 119. The HDD 115 is a high-capacity storage device. A solid-state drive (SSD) may be used instead of the HDD 115. The CPU 111 is connected to the automatic document transport device 120, the document reading unit 130, the image forming unit 140, the paper feeding unit 150, and the operation panel 160, and controls the entire MFP 100.

[0034] The facsimile unit 116 is connected to the Public Switched Telephone Network (PSTN) and transmits facsimile data to the PSTN, and also receives facsimile data from the PSTN. The facsimile unit 116 stores the received facsimile data in the HDD 115. The facsimile unit 116 also converts the facsimile data into printable data for the image forming unit 140 and outputs it to the image forming unit 140. As a result, the image forming unit 140 forms an image on paper from the facsimile data received by the facsimile unit 116. The facsimile unit 116 also converts the data stored in the HDD 115 into facsimile data and transmits it to a facsimile device connected to the PSTN.

[0035] The first communication unit 118 and the second communication unit 119 are communication interfaces. The first communication unit 118 and the second communication unit 119 communicate using communication protocols such as TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) or FTP (File Transfer Protocol). The first communication unit 118 has a first network port to which a network cable is connected. The second communication unit 119 has a second network port to which a network cable is connected. Here, we will explain using the example where a first LAN cable 5 is connected to the first network port of the first communication unit 118 and a second LAN cable 9 is connected to the second network port of the second communication unit 119.

[0036] The first communication unit 118 is connected to the first network 3 when the first LAN cable 5 is connected to the first network port. The first communication unit 118 functions as a communication interface for connecting the MFP 100 to the first network 3. The second communication unit 119 is connected to the second network 7 when the second LAN cable 9 is connected to the second network port. The second communication unit 119 functions as a communication interface for connecting the MFP 100 to the second network 7.

[0037] ROM 113 stores the program executed by CPU 111, or the data necessary to execute that program. RAM 114 is used as a workspace when CPU 111 executes the program. RAM 114 also temporarily stores scanned images that are continuously sent from document reading unit 130.

[0038] The control panel 160 is provided on the top surface of the MFP 100. The control panel 160 includes a display unit 161 and an operation unit 163. The display unit 161 is, for example, a liquid crystal display (LCD) and displays instruction menus for the user, information about acquired image data, etc. Instead of an LCD, any device that can display images, such as an organic EL display, may be used.

[0039] The operating unit 163 includes a touch panel 165 and a hard key unit 167. The touch panel 165 is capacitive. However, the touch panel 165 is not limited to the capacitive type; other types such as resistive, surface acoustic wave, infrared, and electromagnetic induction can be used. The hard key unit 167 includes a plurality of hard keys. The hard keys are, for example, contact switches.

[0040] The external storage device 117 is controlled by the CPU 111 and has a CD-ROM 112 installed in it. In this embodiment, an example is described in which the CPU 111 executes a program stored in ROM 113. Alternatively, the CPU 111 may control the external storage device 117 to read a program for execution from CD-ROM 112, store the read program in RAM 102, and then execute it.

[0041] Furthermore, the recording medium for storing the program to be executed by the CPU 111 is not limited to the CD-ROM 112, but may also be a flexible disk, cassette tape, optical disk, semiconductor memory, or other media. Optical disks include MO (Magnetic Optical Disc), MD (MiniDisc), and DVD (Digital Versatile Disc). Semiconductor memory includes IC cards, optical cards, mask ROM, and EPROM (Erasable Programmable ROM).

[0042] Furthermore, the CPU 111 may load programs stored in the HDD 115 into the RAM 114 and execute them on the CPU 111. Programs stored in the HDD 115 include programs downloaded by the CPU 111 from a computer connected to the Internet, or programs written to the HDD 115 by a computer connected to the Internet. The term "program" here includes not only programs that can be directly executed by the CPU 111, but also source programs, compressed programs, encrypted programs, and the like.

[0043] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing an example of the functions of the MFP in this embodiment. The functions shown in Figure 4 are realized by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100, which executes a misconnection resolution program stored in the ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 112. Alternatively, these functions may be implemented in hardware.

[0044] Referring to Figure 4, the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 includes a first connection detection unit 51, a second connection detection unit 53, an association unit 55, a misconnection detection unit 57, a connection count determination unit 59, and a misconnection resolution unit 61.

[0045] The first connection detection unit 51 controls the first communication unit 118. The first connection detection unit 51 detects that a network cable is connected to the first communication unit 118. The second connection detection unit 53 controls the second communication unit 119. The second connection detection unit 53 detects that a network cable is connected to the second communication unit 119. Here, we will explain using the case where the first LAN cable 5 is connected to the first communication unit 118 and the second LAN cable 9 is connected to the second connection detection unit 53 as an example.

[0046] The first connection detection unit 51 detects that the first LAN cable 5 is connected to the first network port of the first communication unit 118. Furthermore, in response to detecting the connection of the first LAN cable 5 to the first network port of the first communication unit 118, the first connection detection unit 51 obtains first identification information for identifying the first network 3 to which the first LAN cable 5 is connected. The first identification information is the IP address of the first server 250 connected to the first network 3. Alternatively, the network address of network 3 may be used as the network identification information instead of the IP address of the first server 250. The network address is an IP address identified by its subnet mask. In this case, the network address can be identified from packets flowing through the first network 3. In response to detecting the connection of the first LAN cable 5 to the first network port of the first communication unit 118, the first connection detection unit 51 outputs a first connection signal to the association unit 55 and the misconnection detection unit 57. The first connection signal includes the first identification information. The first connection signal, which includes the first identification information, indicates that the first communication unit 118 is connected to the first network 3.

[0047] The second connection detection unit 53 detects that the second LAN cable 9 is connected to the second network port of the second communication unit 119. Furthermore, in response to detecting the connection of the second LAN cable 9 to the second network port of the second communication unit 119, the second connection detection unit 53 obtains second identification information to identify the second network 7 to which the second LAN cable 9 is connected. The second identification information is the IP address of the second server 350 connected to the second network 7. In response to detecting the connection of the second LAN cable 9 to the second network port of the second communication unit 119, the second connection detection unit 53 outputs a second connection signal to the association unit 55 and the misconnection detection unit 57. The second connection signal includes the second identification information. The first connection signal including the second identification information indicates that the second communication unit 119 is connected to the first network 3.

[0048] The association unit 55 associates a network with a network port. The association unit 55 associates a network port with a network. The association unit 55 associates first identification information with the first network port of the first communication unit 118 in response to the input of a first connection signal from the first connection detection unit 51. If, at the stage when the first connection signal is input from the first connection detection unit 51, no network is associated with the first network port of the first communication unit 118, the association unit 55 associates first identification information with the first network port of the first communication unit 118. The association unit 55 outputs the first association information, which associates the first network port of the first communication unit 118 with the first identification information, to the misconnection detection unit 57 and the connection count determination unit 59. The association unit 55 also stores the first association information in the HDD 115.

[0049] The association unit 55 associates the second identification information with the second network port of the second communication unit 119 in response to the input of the second connection signal from the second connection detection unit 53. If, at the stage when the second connection signal is input from the second connection detection unit 53, the second network port of the second communication unit 119 is not associated with a network, the association unit 55 associates the second identification information with the second network port of the second communication unit 119. The association unit 55 outputs the second association information, which associates the second network port of the second communication unit 119 with the second identification information, to the misconnection detection unit 57 and the connection count determination unit 59. The association unit 55 also stores the second association information in the HDD 115.

[0050] After the first network cable is connected to the network port and the network is associated by the association unit 55, a second network cable may be newly connected to the network port. In this case, the misconnection detection unit 57 detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable is not associated with the network port.

[0051] The misconnection detection unit 57 determines whether a connection is incorrect based on whether a first connection signal is input from the first connection detection unit 51 after the first association information is input from the association unit 55. If the misconnection detection unit 57 detects a misconnection, it outputs the misconnection information to the misconnection resolution unit 61. Here, the identification information for identifying the network included in the first connection signal output from the first connection detection unit 51 to the misconnection detection unit 57 after the first association information is input from the association unit 55 is referred to as the third identification information. The misconnection information includes the first connection signal input from the first connection detection unit 51 after the first association information is input from the association unit 55. This first connection signal includes the third identification information.

[0052] The misconnection detection unit 57 determines whether a connection is incorrect by comparing the third identification information contained in the first connection signal input from the first connection detection unit 51 with the first identification information contained in the first association information. The misconnection detection unit 57 detects a misconnection if the third identification information is different from the first identification information. The misconnection detection unit 57 does not detect a misconnection if the third identification information is the same as the first identification information. The misconnection detection unit 57 does not detect a misconnection if the first association information has not been input from the association unit 55 at the stage when the first connection signal is input from the first connection detection unit 51.

[0053] The misconnection detection unit 57 determines whether a connection is incorrect based on the input of the second connection signal from the second connection detection unit 53 after the input of the second association information from the association unit 55. If the misconnection detection unit 57 detects a misconnection, it outputs the misconnection information to the misconnection resolution unit 61. Here, the identification information for identifying the network included in the second connection signal output to the misconnection detection unit 57 from the second connection detection unit 53 after the input of the second association information from the association unit 55 is referred to as the fourth identification information. The misconnection information includes the second connection signal input from the second connection detection unit 53 after the input of the second association information from the association unit 55. This second connection signal includes the fourth identification information.

[0054] The misconnection detection unit 57 determines whether a connection is incorrect by comparing the fourth identification information contained in the second connection signal input from the second connection detection unit 53 with the second identification information contained in the second association information. The misconnection detection unit 57 detects a misconnection if the fourth identification information is different from the second identification information. The misconnection detection unit 57 does not detect a misconnection if the third identification information is the same as the second identification information. The misconnection detection unit 57 does not detect a misconnection if the second association information has not been input from the association unit 55 at the stage when the second connection signal is input from the first connection detection unit 51.

[0055] The connection count determination unit 59 detects the number of network ports to which the network cable can be connected. The connection count determination unit 59 determines whether there are multiple network ports to which the network cable can be connected. The connection count determination unit 59 outputs the determination result to the misconnection resolution unit 61. In this embodiment, the MFP 100 has a first network port provided by the first communication unit 118 and a second network port provided by the second communication unit 119. Therefore, the connection count determination unit 59 outputs a determination result to the misconnection resolution unit 61 indicating that there are multiple network ports to which the network cable can be connected.

[0056] In the MFP100, either the first communication unit 118 or the second communication unit 119 may be installed. In this case, the connection count determination unit 59 determines that there is one network port to which a network cable can be connected. In addition, the MFP100 may have further communication interfaces in addition to the first communication unit 118 and the second communication unit 119. In this case, the connection count determination unit 59 determines that there are multiple network ports to which a network cable can be connected.

[0057] The misconnection resolution unit 61 receives a determination result from the connection count determination unit 59 and first association information and second association information from the association unit 55. The misconnection resolution unit 61 may also receive misconnection information from the misconnection detection unit 57. If misconnection information is received, the misconnection resolution unit 61 executes a resolution process to resolve the misconnection based on the determination result received from the connection count determination unit 59. The misconnection resolution unit 61 includes a warning unit 71 and a swapping unit 73. The warning unit 71 executes a resolution process to issue a warning when the determination result from the connection count determination unit 59 is a single number, in accordance with the input of misconnection information. The warning unit 71 displays a warning screen on the display unit 161.

[0058] Figure 5 shows an example of a warning screen. Referring to Figure 6, the warning screen includes an icon image prompting a warning and the message, "A new network connection has been detected. Please contact your administrator."

[0059] Returning to Figure 4, the warning unit 71 may output a warning sound together with or separately from the display of the warning screen. The warning sound may be a buzzer sound or a synthesized voice message.

[0060] The swapping unit 73, when the connection count determination unit 59 determines multiple connections, executes a resolution process to resolve the misconnections based on the misconnection information input from the misconnection information. Based on the misconnection information, the swapping unit 73 swaps multiple networks associated with multiple network ports by the association unit 55. The misconnection information includes either first connection information including third identification information or second connection information including fourth identification information. The third identification information is different from the first identification information. The fourth identification information is different from the second identification information.

[0061] When a LAN cable is not connected to the second network port of the second communication unit 119, the swapping unit 73 receives incorrect connection information, including first connection information including third identification information, and compares the third identification information with the second identification information included in the second association information. If the third identification information is the same as the second identification information, the swapping unit 73 swaps the multiple networks associated with multiple network ports by the association unit 55. Specifically, the swapping unit 73 changes the first association information to information that associates the second network 7 with the first network port of the first communication unit 118. Furthermore, the swapping unit 73 changes the second association information to information that associates the first network 3 with the second network port of the second communication unit 119.

[0062] When a network cable is not connected to the first network port of the first communication unit 118, the swapping unit 73 compares the fourth identification information with the first identification information included in the first association information in response to the input of second connection information including the fourth identification information. If the fourth identification information is the same as the first identification information, the swapping unit 73 swaps the multiple networks associated with multiple network ports by the association unit 55.

[0063] Here, we assume a scenario where the user disconnects the first LAN cable 5 and the second LAN cable 9 from the MFP100, and then reconnects the first LAN cable 5 and the second LAN cable 9 to the MFP100.

[0064] Figure 6 shows an example of the associated information before replacement. Referring to Figure 6, the associated information is shown before the user unplugs the first LAN cable 5 and the second LAN cable 9 from the MFP100. The first and second associated information includes a network port item, an MFP IP address item, a network identification information item, and a function information item. The network port item is set with identification information to identify the network port. The MFP IP address item is set with the IP address assigned to the MFP100. The network identification information item is set with the DHCP server's IP address. The function information item is set with the configuration information assigned to the network port. The configuration information includes, for example, a setting value that defines the security level.

[0065] Here, the identification information for the first communication unit 118 is "Network Port 1," and the identification information for the second communication unit 119 is "Network Port 2." Also, the IP address of the first server 250 is "AAA.BBB.CCC.DDD," and the IP address of the second server 350 is "AAA.BBB.CCC.EEE." The configuration information corresponding to the first network 3 is "Function Information A," and the configuration information corresponding to the second network 7 is "Function Information B."

[0066] The first association information associates "AAA.BBB.CCC.DDD" as the IP address of MFP100 with the first network port of the first communication unit 118, and associates the first network 3 and function information A with it. The second association information associates "VVV.WWW.XXX.YYY" as the IP address of MFP100 with the second network port of the second communication unit 119, and associates the second network 7 and function information B with it.

[0067] Here, we assume that the first and second related information shown in Figure 6 are stored in the HDD 115, and the user connects the second LAN cable 9 to the first network port of the first communication unit 118. In this case, the multiple networks associated with the first communication unit 118 and the second communication unit 119 are swapped.

[0068] Figure 7 shows an example of the related information after the swap. Referring to Figure 7, the first related information associates "VVV.WWW.XXX.YYY" as the IP address of MFP100 with the first network port of the first communication unit 118, and associates the second network 7 and function information B with it. The second related information associates "AAA.BBB.CCC.DDD" as the IP address of MFP100 with the second network port of the second communication unit 119, and associates the first network 3 and function information A with it.

[0069] Figure 8 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the misconnection resolution process. The misconnection resolution process is performed by the CPU 111 of the MFP 100, which executes a misconnection resolution program stored in the ROM 113, HDD 115, or CD-ROM 112. Referring to Figure 8, the CPU 111 of the MFP 100 determines whether or not a network cable has been connected (step S01). It is determined whether or not a network cable has been connected to either the first network port of the first communication unit 118 or the second network port of the second communication unit 119. The system remains in a waiting state until a network cable is connected to a network port (NO in step S01), and if a network cable is connected to a network port (YES in step S01), the process proceeds to step S02.

[0070] In step S02, it is determined whether the network setting is DHCP or not. If it is not DHCP and a static IP address is used, the process ends. However, if it is DHCP, the process proceeds to step S03. DHCP setting is a setting where the IP address of the device is assigned by a DHCP server.

[0071] In step S03, the misconnection detection process is executed, and the process proceeds to step S04. The details of the misconnection detection process will be described later, but it is a process that detects a misconnection where the network connected to the network port is different from the network that was previously connected. In step S04, the process branches according to the detection result in the misconnection detection process. If a misconnection is detected, the process proceeds to step S07; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S05.

[0072] In step S05, it is determined whether the network is configured or not. This is determined by whether configuration information is associated with the network port using the association information. In other words, if the network is not associated with the network port using the association information, it is determined that no configuration information is associated. If the network is not configured, the process proceeds to step S06, but if the network is configured, the process ends. In step S06, association information is generated, and the process ends. Specifically, in step S01, the network port to which the network cable is connected is associated with the network identification information corresponding to the network cable. For example, if the first LAN cable 5 is connected to the first network port of the first communication unit 118, the IP address of the first server 250, which is the identification information of the first network 3, is associated with the first network port. Also, if the second LAN cable 9 is connected to the second network port of the second communication unit 119, the IP address of the second server 350, which is the identification information of the second network 7, is associated with the second network port.

[0073] The process proceeds to step S07 if an incorrect network cable is connected to the network port to which the network cable was connected in step S01. In step S07, it is determined whether there are multiple network ports. If there is only one network port, the process proceeds to step S08; however, if there are multiple network ports, the process proceeds to step S09. In step S08, the CPU 111 issues a warning and terminates the process. For example, a warning screen is displayed on the display unit 161.

[0074] In step S09, it is determined whether the network to which the network cable connected to the network port in step S01 is connected is associated with another network port. If the network is associated with another network, the process proceeds to step S11; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S10. In step S10, the CPU 111 issues a warning and terminates the process. For example, a warning screen is displayed on the display unit 161.

[0075] In step S11, the CPU 111 swaps the networks and terminates the process. Multiple networks associated with multiple network ports are swapped. For example, suppose the first network 3 is associated with the first network port of the first communication unit 118, and the second network 7 is associated with the second network port of the second communication unit 119. In this state, when the second LAN cable 9 is connected to the first network port, the first network 3 and the second network 7 are swapped. The second network 7 becomes associated with the first network port, and the first network 3 becomes associated with the second network port.

[0076] Figure 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the misconnection detection process. The misconnection detection process is executed in step S03 of the misconnection resolution process. Referring to Figure 9, the CPU 111 determines whether the network is configured or not (step S20). This determination is made based on whether configuration information is associated with the network port by the association information. In other words, if the network is not associated with the network port by the association information, it is determined that no configuration information is associated. If the network is not configured, the process proceeds to step S22, but if the network is configured, the process proceeds to step S21. In step S21, the CPU 111 determines that the connection is normal and returns the process to the misconnection resolution process.

[0077] In step S22, it is determined whether the network connected to the network port is the same as the network that was connected before disconnection. The identification information of the network connected to the network port is compared with the identification information of the network associated with that network port in the association information. If the network connected to the network port is the same as the network that was connected before disconnection, the process proceeds to step S23; otherwise, the process proceeds to step S24. In step S23, the CPU 111 determines that it is a normal connection and returns the process to the misconnection resolution process. In step S24, the CPU 111 determines that it is a misconnection and returns the process to the misconnection resolution process.

[0078] <Summary of Embodiments> (Item 1) A connection detection unit that detects the connection of a first network cable to a network port, An association unit that associates a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection unit detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port. A connection count determination unit that determines whether there are multiple network ports, An image forming apparatus comprising: an incorrect connection elimination unit that, when an incorrect connection is detected, executes a process to eliminate the incorrect connection based on the determination result by the connection count determination unit.

[0079] In this scenario, it is determined whether there are multiple network ports or not, and if a misconnection is detected, a process to resolve the misconnection is executed based on whether there are multiple network ports or not. Therefore, misconnections are detected whether there is one or multiple network ports. Furthermore, the process to resolve the misconnection can be performed in two ways: one when there is one network port and another when there are multiple network ports. As a result, since the process to resolve the misconnection is executed based on the number of network ports, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that can assist in the operation of connecting network cables to network ports.

[0080] (Item 2) The image forming apparatus according to Item 1, wherein the association unit associates a network corresponding to the first network cable when a connection of the first network cable to the network port is detected while no network is associated with the network port.

[0081] In this scenario, when it is detected that the first network cable has been connected to the network port, if no network is associated with the network port, the network corresponding to the first network cable will be associated with the network port. Therefore, after the first network cable is disconnected from the network port, it is possible to determine whether the network corresponding to the network cable connected to the network port is the same as the network before the disconnection.

[0082] (Item 3) The image forming apparatus according to item 1 or 2, wherein the association part associates the network port with the IP address of the DHCP server of the network corresponding to the first network cable connected to the network port.

[0083] (Item 4) When the misconnection detection unit detects the connection of the second network cable to the network port while the network corresponding to the first network cable is associated with the network port, it determines that the connection is incorrect if the network corresponding to the second network cable is different from the network corresponding to the first network cable associated with the network port. The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 3, wherein it does not determine a misconnection when the network corresponding to the second network cable is the same as the network corresponding to the first network cable associated with the network port.

[0084] In this scenario, a misconnection is detected if the network corresponding to a newly detected second network cable connected to the network port is different from the network associated with the network port. Therefore, misconnections of newly connected network cables to the network port can be easily detected.

[0085] (Item 5) The image forming apparatus according to any one of Items 1 to 4, wherein the misconnection resolution unit issues a warning if there is only one network port.

[0086] Following this procedure, if there is only one network port, a warning will be issued if an incorrect connection is detected, allowing the user to take action such as connecting a different network cable.

[0087] (Item 6) The network port includes a first network port and a second network port, The image forming apparatus according to any one of items 1 to 5, wherein the misconnection resolution unit, when a misconnection is detected at the first network port, executes a process to resolve the misconnection based on whether or not the second network port is connectable.

[0088] In this scenario, if a network port includes a first network port and a second network port, and a misconnection is detected at the first network port, a process to resolve the misconnection is executed based on whether the second network port is connectable or not. The process to resolve the misconnection can be made different depending on whether the second network is connectable or not.

[0089] (Item 7) The image forming apparatus according to Item 6, wherein the misconnection resolution unit issues a warning if the second network port is already connected.

[0090] In this scenario, if the second network port is already connected, a warning will be issued if an incorrect connection is detected, allowing the user to take action such as connecting a different network cable.

[0091] (Clause 8) The image forming apparatus according to Clause 6 or 7, wherein the misconnection resolution unit associates the first network and the second network with the first network port and the second network port, respectively, by the association unit, and when the second network port is not connected and the second network is connected to the first network port, the unit associates the second network with the first network port and associates the first network with the second network port.

[0092] In this scenario, if a misconnection is detected where the first network is associated with the first network port, the second network is associated with the second network port, and the first network port is unconnected, then the second network and the first network will be associated with the first network port and the second network, respectively. This allows the misconnection to be resolved while maintaining the settings corresponding to the first network and the second network.

[0093] (Item 9) A method for resolving misconnections performed in an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, A connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to the network port, The association step involves associating a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection step that detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port, A connection count determination step that determines whether there are multiple network ports, A method for resolving a misconnection, which includes a misconnection resolving step in which, if a misconnection is detected, a process for resolving the misconnection is executed based on the determination result in the connection count determination step.

[0094] Following this approach, it is possible to provide a method for resolving misconnections that can assist in the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port.

[0095] (Item 10) A misconnection resolution program that is executed on a computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, A connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to the network port, The association step involves associating a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection step that detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port, A connection count determination step that determines whether there are multiple network ports, A misconnection elimination program that causes the computer to execute a misconnection elimination step, which, if a misconnection is detected, executes a process to eliminate the misconnection based on the determination result in the connection count determination step.

[0096] Following this approach, it is possible to provide a misconnection correction program that can assist in the operation of connecting a network cable to a network port.

[0097] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the foregoing description, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0098] 1 Image forming system, 100 MFP, 250 First server, 350 Second server, 200 First PC, 300 Second PC, 3 First network, 5 First LAN cable, 7 Second network, 9 Second LAN cable, 102 RAM, 110 Main circuit, 111 CPU, 112 CD-ROM, 113 ROM, 114 RAM, 115 HDD, 116 Facsimile unit, 117 External storage device, 118 First communication unit, 119 Second communication unit, 120 Automatic document transport device, 130 Document reading unit, 140 Image forming unit, 150 Paper feeding unit, 160 Operation panel, 161 Display unit, 163 Operation unit, 51 First connection detection unit, 53 Second connection detection unit, 55 Association unit, 57 Misconnection detection unit, 59 Number of connections determination unit, 61 Misconnection resolution unit, 71 Warning unit, 73 Shunting section.

Claims

1. A connection detection unit that detects the connection of a first network cable to a network port, An association unit that associates a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection unit detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port. A connection count determination unit that determines whether there are multiple network ports, An image forming apparatus comprising: an incorrect connection resolution unit that, when an incorrect connection is detected, executes a process to resolve the incorrect connection based on the determination result by the connection count determination unit.

2. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the association unit associates a network corresponding to the first network cable when a connection of the first network cable to the network port is detected while no network is associated with the network port.

3. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the association part associates the network port with the IP address of the DHCP server of the network corresponding to the first network cable connected to the network port.

4. The misconnection detection unit determines that a connection is incorrect if, while the network corresponding to the first network cable is associated with the network port, the connection of the second network cable to the network port is detected, and the network corresponding to the second network cable is different from the network corresponding to the first network cable associated with the network port. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the network corresponding to the second network cable is not deemed to be a misconnection when it is the same as the network corresponding to the first network cable associated with the network port.

5. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the misconnection resolution unit issues a warning if there is only one network port.

6. The aforementioned network port includes a first network port and a second network port, The image forming apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 5, wherein the misconnection resolution unit, when a misconnection is detected at the first network port, executes a process to resolve the misconnection based on whether or not the second network port is connectable.

7. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the misconnection resolution unit issues a warning if the second network port is already connected.

8. The image forming apparatus according to claim 6, wherein the misconnection resolution unit associates the first network and the second network with the first network port and the second network port, respectively, by the association unit, and when a misconnection is detected in which the second network is connected to the first network port while the second network port is not connected, the unit associates the second network with the first network port and associates the first network with the second network port.

9. A method for resolving misconnections performed in an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, A connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to the network port, The association step involves associating a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection step that detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port, A connection count determination step that determines whether there are multiple network ports, A method for resolving a misconnection, which includes a misconnection resolving step in which, if a misconnection is detected, a process for resolving the misconnection is executed based on the determination result in the connection count determination step.

10. A misconnection resolution program executed on a computer that controls an image forming apparatus equipped with a network port, A connection detection step for detecting the connection of a first network cable to the network port, The association step involves associating a network with the aforementioned network port, A misconnection detection step that detects a misconnection in which the network corresponding to the second network cable connected to the network port is not associated with the network port, A connection count determination step that determines whether there are multiple network ports, A misconnection elimination program that causes the computer to execute a misconnection elimination step, which, if a misconnection is detected, executes a process to eliminate the misconnection based on the determination result in the connection count determination step.

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