EP0858621B1 - Communication means in electrographic printing and copying apparatus - Google Patents
Communication means in electrographic printing and copying apparatus Download PDFInfo
- Publication number
- EP0858621B1 EP0858621B1 EP96925648A EP96925648A EP0858621B1 EP 0858621 B1 EP0858621 B1 EP 0858621B1 EP 96925648 A EP96925648 A EP 96925648A EP 96925648 A EP96925648 A EP 96925648A EP 0858621 B1 EP0858621 B1 EP 0858621B1
- Authority
- EP
- European Patent Office
- Prior art keywords
- data
- functional
- canbus
- bus system
- dpram
- Prior art date
- Legal status (The legal status is an assumption and is not a legal conclusion. Google has not performed a legal analysis and makes no representation as to the accuracy of the status listed.)
- Expired - Lifetime
Links
Images
Classifications
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G15/00—Apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern
- G03G15/50—Machine control of apparatus for electrographic processes using a charge pattern, e.g. regulating differents parts of the machine, multimode copiers, microprocessor control
-
- G—PHYSICS
- G03—PHOTOGRAPHY; CINEMATOGRAPHY; ANALOGOUS TECHNIQUES USING WAVES OTHER THAN OPTICAL WAVES; ELECTROGRAPHY; HOLOGRAPHY
- G03G—ELECTROGRAPHY; ELECTROPHOTOGRAPHY; MAGNETOGRAPHY
- G03G21/00—Arrangements not provided for by groups G03G13/00 - G03G19/00, e.g. cleaning, elimination of residual charge
- G03G21/14—Electronic sequencing control
Definitions
- the invention relates to a communication device in one electrographic printer or copier.
- an electrographic Printing or copying machines are a plurality of Functional units, such as a fuser, a character generator, a paper transport device, a central control unit, etc. included.
- Functional units such as a fuser, a character generator, a paper transport device, a central control unit, etc. included.
- the functionality of all these functional units must be in operation of the printing or copying machine be coordinated.
- Bus systems used that are controlled by a main module HM become.
- the structure of such a known control system can be seen from Figure 1.
- a submodule SUB1..SUBn controls power consumer LV, records data sensors and exchanges data and messages with others Submodules SUB1..SUBn off. While the power consumer LV via individual lines directly from the submodules SUB1..SUBn are controlled between submodule SUB1..SUBn and the individual sensors ES sensor modules SPU1..SPUn for processing the information recorded by the sensors inserted.
- the submodules SUB1..SUBn communicate with the sensor modules via a second VBUS bus system.
- the second bus system VBUS can be, for example act a coupling by means of a parallel V24 interface.
- Communication between the sensor modules and the Submodules are made using a polling process, in which a submodule SUB1..SUBn desired data from a Queries sensor module SPU1..SPUn. Communication too between the submodules SUB1..SUBn takes place after this Polling procedure, with the main module HM as the master and the Submodules SUB1..SUBn can be considered as slaves.
- the well-known query procedure In addition to the long program throughput time, the well-known query procedure also requires also an increased wiring effort, since parallel wiring is required. The efficiency of the The query procedure is also low because states are frequently queried be that since the previous query haven't changed.
- the data traffic that is only between masters and slave can be handled by a single Control unit contained in the main module HM by means of priority control coordinates. This can cause delays come in the functional sequence of the printing or copying machine. This The fact is countered by the fact that rapid signal changes treated by means of a so-called parallel port query become.
- the present invention has for its object a Communication device and a communication method for to show an electrographic printing or copying machine, that a fast, delay-free communication at the same time low wiring and high security guaranteed.
- Bus system that contains the functional units for data communication coupled with each other, data exchange is always immediate between the functional units.
- Any interface a functional unit can be regarded as a master which is why communication only between masters takes place.
- each functional unit Through the defined address areas in the storage units of the interfaces that are always through the bus system updated, each functional unit always has about the current information in the printer or copier.
- a complex request for information by an as Interface defined for a master is not required.
- a Request from a functional unit about the state of others Functional units are easily accessed the interface's own storage unit. This requires comparatively little time, which makes the functional unit through the communication relationship with the other functional units is only slightly burdened.
- the memory unit of the interface is designed as a dual-port RAM.
- This advantageously allows simultaneous Access from the functional unit and the bus system on the storage unit.
- the dual port RAM divided into two address areas, on the one hand data and news and other information related to this Data and messages are stored. This can be targeted the desired data can be accessed.
- advantageous Way is the distance between the start byte of each other associated data and messages related to the information selected at a certain address spacing. This makes it easier addressing especially if, for example, a A distance of 2 KB is selected, only a part of the Address bits after accessing the first block to access the associated other block to be changed.
- the information regarding is in the data or message block a state of a functional unit, for example whether a certain engine is in operation.
- Information block is information about the data and Message block included. This can be a label what is new information, the must be sent. It can also provide information about it be how the information from the storage unit to report to the functional unit.
- the information can can be called up independently by the functional unit (RTR bit) or an interrupt request is made by the functional unit the presence of new information in the dual-port RAM to draw attention. As this varies from functional unit to functional unit
- the information blocks can be different in the different dual port RAM's from each other differentiate. The blocks of information can be used as needed printing operations.
- FIFO registers of the storage unit assigned.
- These FIFO registers have a FIFO empty line, which is assigned to the receiving processor triggers an interrupt routine.
- the FIFO register becomes the address of a data or message block and its length entered when the in the storage unit writing processor based on the information in the information block determines that an interrupt routine should be initiated is.
- a receiving processor can then process messages and data intended for him, if his workflow allows.
- the sending processor depending on the depth of the FIFO, for example 128 messages regardless of the recipient Sell processors.
- the invention can also function units through another interface be coupled to the bus system that are not special Perform the control task. For example, serve such functional units of sensor detection and evaluation. These functional units only receive those intended for them Information. The rest of the information is provided by the Interface hidden. This configuration allows simple functional units with little effort immediately be coupled with the bus system. A burden on others Functional units through direct coupling of the simple functional units to these are omitted.
- Functional units SUB, SPU of a printing and copying machine there are eight Functional units SUB, SPU of a printing and copying machine shown. All functional units SPU, SUB are through a uniform CANBUS bus system for communication with each other coupled.
- a first group of functional units form the submodules SUB1..SUBn. With these submodules SUB1..SUBn is, for example, the controller the paper transport, the character generator and the fuser, as well as the central control of the printing or copying machine.
- These submodules SUB1..SUBn control the assigned ones Units, such as motors, heating devices and others Power consumers assigned to LV based on these aggregates Sensor elements.
- With the other functional units are simple sensor assemblies that are outside of the submodules SUB1..SUBn buttons, switches, display elements, Control temperature sensors, motors and sensors.
- the coupling of these sensor modules SPU1..SPUn to the bus system CANBUS takes place through an interface according to the figure 3.
- the SPU1..SPUn sensor module has a first one Microprocessor UP1, for example of the type 80C535, which the controls the functional elements assigned to the sensor module and monitors and reports that occur to a subordinate Controller CONT, for example of the 82C200 type or receives.
- This CONT controller leaves only those Messages and data from the CANBUS bus system pass through for the functionality of the SPU1..SPUn required are.
- the number of these relevant data messages is extremely small, so that the CONT controller only via a transmit memory and two selectable receive memories disposes.
- the connection of the CONT controller to the CANBUS bus system takes place via an analog driver module, for example of the type 82C250. In this driver block TR the level is adjusted to the CANBUS bus system.
- a second microprocessor UP2 is used to control a submodule SUB1..SUBn.
- the second microprocessor UP2 the type 80C167 can be used.
- This microprocessor UP2 communicates with the bus system via a DPRAM memory unit CANBUS.
- a third UP3 microprocessor for example the type 80C535. He communicates with a BCONT bus controller and this with a bus driver BTR.
- Type 80C200 can be used as a BCONT bus controller and as a bus driver BTR type 80C250 can be used.
- the second and the third microprocessor UP2, UP3 communicate immediately with the DPRAM memory unit.
- the storage unit is concerned it is a dual port RAM DPRAM.
- This dual-port RAM DPRAM is structured as shown in FIG. 5.
- the entire address range of the dual port RAM is DPRAM divided into two address areas AB1, AB2.
- everyone is there Address in the first address area AB1 an address in the second Address area AB2 assigned.
- the distance K between each other assigned addresses is always the same and is, for example 2 KB.
- Data is in the first address area AB1 and messages are filed and in the second address area AB2 Section data and news information 1 AB1 filed.
- the data and messages of the first address area AB1 are structured in blocks.
- a block D1, D2, Dn is replaced by a Designates the start address and is a maximum of 8 bytes long.
- Of the second section AB2 is also in blocks I1, I2, In structured.
- Each block I1, I2 ... In of the second address area AB2 contains information of the block assigned to it D1, D2, Dn of the first address area AB1.
- the distance K starting addresses of related blocks D1, I1, .. Dn, in which correspond to different sections AB1, AB2 the distance K of the related Addresses of the different address areas AB1, AB2.
- the information in the second address area AB2 relates to the associated data and message block.
- This information can be a label of what it is is new information that needs to be sent. It can also be information about how the Information from the DPRAM memory unit to the functional unit is to be reported. The information can be from the functional unit can be called up independently (RTR bit) or one Interrupt request makes the functional unit on the presence new information in the dual port RAM DPRAM.
- RTR bit Real-Time SR bit
- one Interrupt request makes the functional unit on the presence new information in the dual port RAM DPRAM.
- the length of the data of the associated data block in the first Address area AB1 is part of the information block I1..In. In general, it is information about how to process the data and messages D1..Dn further are.
- the receiving microprocessor UP2, UP3 through an interrupt routine on the data or messages D1..Dn should be pointed out, then the sender carries Processor UP2, UP3 the address of the first byte written a message in the first address area AB1 and the associated one Data length in a first-in-first-out (FIFO) register FIFO1, FIFO2 on.
- the FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2 contains a FIFO empty line, those with the receiving processor UP2, UP3 is coupled and for each memory entry in the FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2 an interrupt in the receiving microprocessor UP2, UP3 triggers.
- Each FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2 is for one direction of transmission responsible. So the first FIFO register FIFO1 from third microprocessor UP3 and described by the second microprocessor UP2 read. The second FIFO register FIFO2 is described by the second microprocessor UP2 and by the third Microprocessor UP3 read.
- the FIFO registers FIFO1, FIFO2 can accommodate 128 different messages that generate an interrupt should trigger. These messages can be processed successively without changing their order.
- the immediate stopping of data or messages D1..Dn is favored in that the second microprocessor UP2 if there is a new message, an entry in the second FIFO register makes FIFO2. This is done regardless of the Information in the second address area AB2 of the dual-port RAM DPRAM.
- the third microprocessor UP3 is thus the data or message at the next opportunity via the bus system Transfer CANBUS to the other functional units SPU, SUB.
- each functional unit SUB1..SUBn, SPU1..SPUn always a current image of all sensors, consumers and control states of the printing or copying machine to disposal.
- the assignment of data or messages D1..Dn is particularly simple because in every dual-port RAM DPRAM this data or messages D1..Dn the same Address is assigned. For example, data or Messages D1..Dn to sensor 1 at start address 100 of a DPRAM. After transmission, these are available Data or messages D1..Dn in all dual port RAM's DPRAM the other functional units SUB1..SUBn are quasi-synchronous to disposal. You just have to start with address 100 to be read.
- a bus system CANBUS for the communication tasks described above can be used is from CAN bus specification 2.0, part A and B from April 94, known by Philips.
Landscapes
- Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- General Physics & Mathematics (AREA)
- Engineering & Computer Science (AREA)
- Microelectronics & Electronic Packaging (AREA)
- Control Or Security For Electrophotography (AREA)
Abstract
Description
Die Erfindung betrifft eine Kommunikationseinrichtung in einem elektrografischen Druck- oder Kopiergerät. In einem elektrografischen Druck- oder Kopiergerät sind eine Mehrzahl von Funktionseinheiten, wie eine Fixierstation, ein Zeichengenerator, eine Papiertransporteinrichtung, eine zentrale Steuereinheit, etc. enthalten. Darüber hinaus gibt es eine Vielzahl von kleineren Funktionseinheiten, wie z.B. Sensoren, Motoren, Schalter, Taster, etc. Die Funktionalität all dieser Funktionseinheiten muß beim Betrieb des Druck- oder Kopiergerätes koordiniert werden.The invention relates to a communication device in one electrographic printer or copier. In an electrographic Printing or copying machines are a plurality of Functional units, such as a fuser, a character generator, a paper transport device, a central control unit, etc. included. There is also a multitude of smaller functional units, e.g. Sensors, motors, Switches, buttons, etc. The functionality of all these functional units must be in operation of the printing or copying machine be coordinated.
Zu dieser Koordinierung von etwa 100 Sensoren und ca. 40 Leistungsverbrauchern, werden in bekannten Druck- oder Kopiergeräten Bussysteme eingesetzt, die über ein Hauptmodul HM gesteuert werden. Die Struktur eines solchen bekannten Steuerungssystems ist aus der Figur 1 erkennbar. Zur Signalübertragung zwischen dem Hauptmodul HM und den Submodulen SUB1..SUBn, erfolgt über ein erstes Bussystem BBUS. Ein Submodul SUB1..SUBn steuert Leistungsverbraucher LV, erfaßt Daten von Sensoren und tauscht Daten und Nachrichten mit anderen Submodulen SUB1..SUBn aus. Während die Leistungsverbraucher LV über Einzelleitungen direkt von den Submodulen SUB1..SUBn gesteuert werden, sind zwischen Submodul SUB1..SUBn und den Einzelsensoren ES Sensorbaugruppen SPU1..SPUn zur Aufbereitung der von den Sensoren erfaßten Informationen eingefügt. Die Submodule SUB1..SUBn kommunizieren mit den Sensorbaugruppen über ein zweites Bussystem VBUS. Beim zweiten Bussystem VBUS kann es sich beispielsweise um eine Koppelung mittels einer parallelen V24-Schnittselle handeln. Die Kommunikation zwischen den Sensorbaugruppen und den Submodulen erfolgt durch ein sogenanntes Pollingverfahren, bei dem ein Submodul SUB1..SUBn gewünschte Daten von einer Sensorbaugruppe SPU1..SPUn abfragt. Auch die Kommunikation zwischen den Submodulen SUB1..SUBn erfolgt nach diesem Pollingverfahren, wobei das Hauptmodul HM als Master und die Submodule SUB1..SUBn als Slave betrachtet werden können.For this coordination of about 100 sensors and about 40 power consumers, are in known printing or copying machines Bus systems used that are controlled by a main module HM become. The structure of such a known control system can be seen from Figure 1. For signal transmission between the main module HM and the submodules SUB1..SUBn, takes place via a first bus system BBUS. A submodule SUB1..SUBn controls power consumer LV, records data sensors and exchanges data and messages with others Submodules SUB1..SUBn off. While the power consumer LV via individual lines directly from the submodules SUB1..SUBn are controlled between submodule SUB1..SUBn and the individual sensors ES sensor modules SPU1..SPUn for processing the information recorded by the sensors inserted. The submodules SUB1..SUBn communicate with the sensor modules via a second VBUS bus system. The second bus system VBUS can be, for example act a coupling by means of a parallel V24 interface. Communication between the sensor modules and the Submodules are made using a polling process, in which a submodule SUB1..SUBn desired data from a Queries sensor module SPU1..SPUn. Communication too between the submodules SUB1..SUBn takes place after this Polling procedure, with the main module HM as the master and the Submodules SUB1..SUBn can be considered as slaves.
Damit kann der Datenverkehr zwischen den einzelnen Submodulen SUB1..SUBn nur im Dialogverkehr zwischen den Submodulen SUB1..SUBn und dem Hauptmodul HM abgewickelt werden. Dies bedeutet beispielsweise, daß eine Meldung eines Sensors ES an ein Submodul SUBn von diesem Submodul SUBn zum Hauptmodul HM und von diesem zu einem anderen Submodul SUB1..SUB3 übermittelt werden muß. Darüber hinaus können synchrone Steuerungsbefehle nur asynchron an die einzelnen Submodule SUB1..SUBn übertragen werden.This allows data traffic between the individual submodules SUB1..SUBn only in dialog between the submodules SUB1..SUBn and the main module HM are processed. this means for example, that a message from a sensor ES on a submodule SUBn from this submodule SUBn to the main module HM and transmitted from this to another submodule SUB1..SUB3 must become. In addition, synchronous control commands only asynchronously to the individual submodules SUB1..SUBn be transmitted.
Das bekannte Abfrageverfahren bedingt neben der langen Programmdurchlaufzeit auch einen erhöhten Verdrahtungsaufwand, da parallele Verdrahtung erforderlich ist. Die Effizienz des Abfrageverfahrens ist zudem gering, weil häufig Zustände abgefragt werden, die sich seit der vorhergehenden Abfrage nicht geändert haben. Der Datenverkehr, der nur zwischen Master und Slave abgewickelt werden kann, wird durch eine einzige im Hauptmodul HM enthaltene Steuereinheit mittels Prioritätssteuerung koordiniert. Dadurch kann es zu Verzögerungen im Funktionsablauf des Druck- oder Kopiergerätes kommen. Dieser Tatsache wird dadurch begegnet, daß schnelle Signalwechsel mittels einer sogenannten Parallelportabfrage behandelt werden.In addition to the long program throughput time, the well-known query procedure also requires also an increased wiring effort, since parallel wiring is required. The efficiency of the The query procedure is also low because states are frequently queried be that since the previous query haven't changed. The data traffic that is only between masters and slave can be handled by a single Control unit contained in the main module HM by means of priority control coordinates. This can cause delays come in the functional sequence of the printing or copying machine. This The fact is countered by the fact that rapid signal changes treated by means of a so-called parallel port query become.
Der vorliegenden Erfindung liegt die Aufgabe zugrunde, eine Kommunikationseinrichtung und ein Kommunikationverfahren für ein elektrografisches Druck- oder Kopiergerät aufzuzeigen, das eine schnelle verzögerungsfreie Kommunikation bei gleichzeitig geringem Verdrahtungsaufwand und hoher Sicherheit gewährleistet. The present invention has for its object a Communication device and a communication method for to show an electrographic printing or copying machine, that a fast, delay-free communication at the same time low wiring and high security guaranteed.
Diese Aufgabe wird erfindungsgemäß durch die in den Patentansprüchen
1 und 7 angegebenen Merkmale gelöst. Besondere Ausgestaltungen
und Weiterbildungen der Erfindung sind in Unteransprüchen
angegeben.This object is achieved by the in the
Durch die erfindungsgemäße Verwendung eines einheitlichen Bussystems, das die Funktionseinheiten zur Datenkommunikation miteinander koppelt, wird ein Datenaustausch stets unmittelbar zwischen den Funktionseinheiten erfolgen. Jede Schnittstelle einer Funktionseinheit kann dabei als Master betrachtet werden, weshalb eine Kommunikation nur zwischen Mastern stattfindet. Durch die definierten Adreßbereiche in den Speichereinheiten der Schnittstellen, die stets durch das Bussystem aktualisiert werden, verfügt jede Funktionseinheit stets über die aktuellen Informationen im Druck- oder Kopiergerät. Ein aufwendiges Anfordern von Informationen durch eine als Slave definierte Schnittstelle bei einem Master entfällt. Eine Anfrage durch eine Funktionseinheit über den Zustand anderer Funktionseinheiten erfolgt durch einfachen Zugriff auf die eigene Speichereinheit der Schnittstelle. Dies erfordert vergleichsweise wenig Zeit, wodurch die Funktionseinheit durch die Kommunikationsbeziehung zu den anderen Funktionseinheiten nur gering belastet wird.By using a uniform according to the invention Bus system that contains the functional units for data communication coupled with each other, data exchange is always immediate between the functional units. Any interface a functional unit can be regarded as a master which is why communication only between masters takes place. Through the defined address areas in the storage units of the interfaces that are always through the bus system updated, each functional unit always has about the current information in the printer or copier. A complex request for information by an as Interface defined for a master is not required. A Request from a functional unit about the state of others Functional units are easily accessed the interface's own storage unit. This requires comparatively little time, which makes the functional unit through the communication relationship with the other functional units is only slightly burdened.
Gemäß einer Weiterbildung und Ausgestaltung der Erfindung ist die Speichereinheit der Schnittstelle als Dualport-RAM ausgestaltet. Dieses erlaubt in vorteilhafter Weise einen gleichzeitigen Zugriff von Seiten der Funktionseinheit und des Bussystems auf die Speichereinheit. Zudem ist das Dualport-RAM in zwei Adreßbereiche aufgeteilt, in denen zum einen Daten und Nachrichten und im anderen Informationen bezüglich dieser Daten und Nachrichten hinterlegt werden. Dadurch kann gezielt auf die gewünschten Daten zugegriffen werden. In vorteilhafter Weise ist der Abstand zwischen dem Anfangsbyte der einander zugeordneten Daten und Nachrichten zu den Informationen in einem bestimmten Adreßabstand gewählt. Dies erleichtert die Adressierung insbesondere dann, wenn beispielsweise ein Abstand von 2 KByte gewählt wird, braucht nur ein Teil der Adreßbits nach Zugriff auf den ersten Block zum Zugriff auf den zugehörigen anderen Block geändert zu werden.According to a development and embodiment of the invention the memory unit of the interface is designed as a dual-port RAM. This advantageously allows simultaneous Access from the functional unit and the bus system on the storage unit. In addition, the dual port RAM divided into two address areas, on the one hand data and news and other information related to this Data and messages are stored. This can be targeted the desired data can be accessed. In advantageous Way is the distance between the start byte of each other associated data and messages related to the information selected at a certain address spacing. This makes it easier addressing especially if, for example, a A distance of 2 KB is selected, only a part of the Address bits after accessing the first block to access the associated other block to be changed.
Im Daten- oder Nachrichtenblock ist die Information bezüglich eines Zustandes einer Funktionseinheit, beispielsweise, ob ein bestimmter Motor in Betrieb ist, abgelegt. Im zugehörigen Informationsblock sind Informationen über den Daten- und Nachrichtenblock enthalten. Dies kann eine Kennzeichnung sein, wonach es sich um eine neue Information handelt, die gesendet werden muß. Es kann auch eine Information darüber sein, auf welche Weise die Information von der Speichereinheit zur Funktionseinheit zu melden ist. Die Information kann von der Funktionseinheit selbstständig abgerufen werden (RTR-Bit) oder eine Interruptanforderung macht die Funktionseinheit auf das Vorliegen neuer Informationen im Dualport-RAM aufmerksam machen. Da dies von Funktionseinheit zu Funktionseinheit unterschiedlich sein kann, können sich die Informationsblöcke in den unterschiedlichen Dualport-RAM's voneinander unterscheiden. Die Informationsblöcke können bedarfsweise wärend des Druckbetriebs aktualisiert werden.The information regarding is in the data or message block a state of a functional unit, for example whether a certain engine is in operation. In the associated Information block is information about the data and Message block included. This can be a label what is new information, the must be sent. It can also provide information about it be how the information from the storage unit to report to the functional unit. The information can can be called up independently by the functional unit (RTR bit) or an interrupt request is made by the functional unit the presence of new information in the dual-port RAM to draw attention. As this varies from functional unit to functional unit The information blocks can be different in the different dual port RAM's from each other differentiate. The blocks of information can be used as needed printing operations.
Gemäß einer weiteren Weiterbildung und Ausgestaltung der Erfindung sind der Speichereinheit zwei First-In-First-Out-(FIFO)-Register zugeordnet. Diese FIFO-Register verfügen über eine FIFO-Empty-Leitung, die beim ihr zugeordneten Empfangsprozessor eine Unterbrechungsroutine auslöst. In die FIFO-Register wird die Adresse eines Daten- oder Nachrichtenblocks und dessen Länge eingetragen, wenn der in die Speichereinheit schreibende Prozessor anhand der Informationen im Informationsblock feststellt, daß eine Unterbrechungsroutine anzustoßen ist. Auf diese Weise kann ein empfangender Prozessor die für ihn bestimmten Nachrichten und Daten dann verarbeiten, wenn es sein Arbeitsablauf zuläßt. Auf der anderen Seite kann der sendende Prozessor, abhängig von der Tiefe des FIFO's, beispielsweise 128 Nachrichten unabhängig vom empfangenden Prozessoren absetzen. According to a further development and embodiment of the invention are two first-in-first-out (FIFO) registers of the storage unit assigned. These FIFO registers have a FIFO empty line, which is assigned to the receiving processor triggers an interrupt routine. In the FIFO register becomes the address of a data or message block and its length entered when the in the storage unit writing processor based on the information in the information block determines that an interrupt routine should be initiated is. In this way, a receiving processor can then process messages and data intended for him, if his workflow allows. On the other hand, can the sending processor, depending on the depth of the FIFO, for example 128 messages regardless of the recipient Sell processors.
Gemäß einer weiteren Weiterbildung und Ausgestaltung der Erfindung können durch eine weitere Schnittstelle auch Funktionseinheiten an das Bussystem gekoppelt werden, die keine besonderen Steuerungsaufgabe erfüllen. Beispielsweise dienen solche Funktionseinheiten der Sensorerfassung und Auswertung. Diese Funktionseinheiten erhalten nur die für sie bestimmten Informationen. Die übrigen Informationen werden durch die Schnittstelle ausgeblendet. Durch diese Ausgestaltung können einfache Funktionseinheiten mit geringem Aufwand unmittelbar mit dem Bussystem gekoppelt werden. Eine Belastung der anderen Funktionseinheiten durch unmittelbare Ankoppelung der einfachen Funktionseinheiten an diese entfällt.According to a further development and embodiment of the invention can also function units through another interface be coupled to the bus system that are not special Perform the control task. For example, serve such functional units of sensor detection and evaluation. These functional units only receive those intended for them Information. The rest of the information is provided by the Interface hidden. This configuration allows simple functional units with little effort immediately be coupled with the bus system. A burden on others Functional units through direct coupling of the simple functional units to these are omitted.
Im folgenden wird ein Beispiel der Erfindung anhand der Figuren näher erläutert. Dabei zeigen
Figur 1- eine Kommunikationseinrichtung gemäß dem Stand der Technik,
Figur 2- eine erfindungsgemäße Kommunikationseinrichtung in Blockdarstellung von Funktionsmodulen, die durch ein Bussystem miteinander gekoppelt sind,
- Figur 3
- eine vereinfachte Schnittstellenanordnung in Blockdarstellung mit Nachrichtenfilter,
- Figur 4
- eine Schnittstellenanordnung in Blockdarstellung mit Dualport-RAM und FIFO-Registern und
- Figur 5
- ein in zwei Speicherbereiche gegliedertes Dualport-RAM in schematischer Darstellung.
- Figure 1
- a communication device according to the prior art,
- Figure 2
- a communication device according to the invention in a block representation of function modules which are coupled to one another by a bus system,
- Figure 3
- a simplified interface arrangement in block form with a message filter,
- Figure 4
- an interface arrangement in block diagram with dual-port RAM and FIFO registers and
- Figure 5
- a dual-port RAM divided into two memory areas in a schematic representation.
In der Kommunikationseinrichtung gemäß Figur 2 sind acht Funktionseinheiten SUB, SPU eines Druck- und Kopiergeräts dargestellt. Sämtliche Funktionseinheiten SPU, SUB sind durch ein einheitliches Bussystem CANBUS zur Kommunikation miteinander gekoppelt. Eine erste Gruppe von Funktionseinheiten bilden die Submodule SUB1..SUBn. Bei diesen Submodulen SUB1..SUBn handelt es sich beispielsweise um die Steuerung des Papiertransports, des Zeichengenerators und der Fixierstation, sowie um die zentrale Steuerung des Druck- oder Kopiergeräts. Dieses Submodule SUB1..SUBn steuern die ihnen zugeordneten Aggregate, wie Motoren, Heizeinrichtungen und sonstige Leistungsverbraucher LV anhand diesen Aggregaten zugeordneten Sensorelementen. Bei den anderen Funktionseinheiten handelt es sich um einfache Sensorbaugruppen, die außerhalb der Submodule SUB1..SUBn befindliche Taster, Schalter, Anzeigeelemente, Temperaturfühler, Motoren und Sensoren steuern.In the communication device according to FIG. 2 there are eight Functional units SUB, SPU of a printing and copying machine shown. All functional units SPU, SUB are through a uniform CANBUS bus system for communication with each other coupled. A first group of functional units form the submodules SUB1..SUBn. With these submodules SUB1..SUBn is, for example, the controller the paper transport, the character generator and the fuser, as well as the central control of the printing or copying machine. These submodules SUB1..SUBn control the assigned ones Units, such as motors, heating devices and others Power consumers assigned to LV based on these aggregates Sensor elements. With the other functional units are simple sensor assemblies that are outside of the submodules SUB1..SUBn buttons, switches, display elements, Control temperature sensors, motors and sensors.
Die Ankopplung dieser Sensorbaugruppen SPU1..SPUn an das Bus-system CANBUS, erfolgt durch eine Schnittstelle gemäß Figur 3. Die Sensorbaugruppe SPU1..SPUn verfügt über einen ersten Mikroprozessor UP1, beispielsweise vom Typ 80C535, der die der Sensorbaugruppe zugeordneten Funktionselemente steuert und überwacht und auftretende Meldungen an einen nachgeordneten Controller CONT, beispielsweise vom Typ 82C200, abgibt oder empfängt. Dieser Controller CONT läßt nur diejenigen Nachrichten und Daten aus dem Bussystem CANBUS passieren, die für die Funktionsfähigkeit der Sensorbaugruppe SPU1..SPUn erforderlich sind. Die Anzahl dieser relevanten Datennachrichten ist äußerst gering, so daß der Controller CONT lediglich über einen Sendespeicher und zwei auswählbare Empfangsspeicher verfügt. Die Anbindung des Controllers CONT an das Bussystem CANBUS erfolgt über einen analogen Treiberbaustein, beispielsweise vom Typ 82C250. In diesem Treiberbaustein TR erfolgt eine Pegelanpassung an das Bussystem CANBUS.The coupling of these sensor modules SPU1..SPUn to the bus system CANBUS takes place through an interface according to the figure 3. The SPU1..SPUn sensor module has a first one Microprocessor UP1, for example of the type 80C535, which the controls the functional elements assigned to the sensor module and monitors and reports that occur to a subordinate Controller CONT, for example of the 82C200 type or receives. This CONT controller leaves only those Messages and data from the CANBUS bus system pass through for the functionality of the SPU1..SPUn required are. The number of these relevant data messages is extremely small, so that the CONT controller only via a transmit memory and two selectable receive memories disposes. The connection of the CONT controller to the CANBUS bus system takes place via an analog driver module, for example of the type 82C250. In this driver block TR the level is adjusted to the CANBUS bus system.
Die von den übrigen Schnittstellen, die den Submodulen SUB1..SUBn zugeorndet sind, zu verarbeitende Datenmenge, ist wesentlich größer. Eine Schnittstelle, die diese Datenmengen verarbeiten kann, ist in Figur 4 dargestellt. Ein zweiter Mikroprozessor UP2 dient der Steuerung eines Submoduls SUB1..SUBn. Als zweiter Mikroprozessor UP2 kann beispielsweise der Typ 80C167 eingesetzt werden. Dieser Mikroprozessor UP2 kommuniziert über eine Speichereinheit DPRAM mit dem Bus-system CANBUS. Zur Ankopplung der Speichereinheit DPRAM an das Bussystem CANBUS wird ein dritter Mikroprozessor UP3, beispielsweise der Typ 80C535, eingesetzt. Er kommuniziert mit einem Buscontroller BCONT und dieser mit einem Bustreiber BTR.Als Buscontroller BCONT kann der Typ 80C200 und als Bustreiber BTR der Typ 80C250 eingesetzt werden. Der zweite und der dritte Mikroprozessor UP2, UP3 kommunizieren unmittelbar mit der Speichereinheit DPRAM. Bei der Speichereinheit handelt es sich um ein Dualport-RAM DPRAM.That of the other interfaces, that of the submodules SUB1..SUBn are assigned, amount of data to be processed much larger. An interface that this amount of data can process is shown in Figure 4. A second microprocessor UP2 is used to control a submodule SUB1..SUBn. For example, the second microprocessor UP2 the type 80C167 can be used. This microprocessor UP2 communicates with the bus system via a DPRAM memory unit CANBUS. For coupling the DPRAM memory unit to the CANBUS bus system becomes a third UP3 microprocessor, for example the type 80C535. He communicates with a BCONT bus controller and this with a bus driver BTR. Type 80C200 can be used as a BCONT bus controller and as a bus driver BTR type 80C250 can be used. The second and the third microprocessor UP2, UP3 communicate immediately with the DPRAM memory unit. The storage unit is concerned it is a dual port RAM DPRAM.
Dieses Dualport-RAM DPRAM ist wie in Figur 5 gezeigt, strukturiert.
Der gesamte Adreßbereich des Dualport-RAM DPRAM ist
in zwei Adreßbereiche AB1, AB2 aufgeteilt. Dabei ist jeder
Adresse im ersten Adreßbereich AB1 eine Adresse im zweiten
Adreßbereich AB2 zugeordnet. Der Abstand K zwischen den einander
zugeordneten Adressen ist stets gleich und beträgt beispielsweise
2 KByte. Im ersten Adreßbereich AB1 werden Daten
und Nachrichten abgelegt und im zweiten Adreßbereich AB2 werden
Informationen zu den Daten und Nachrichten des Abschnitts
1 AB1 abgelegt.This dual-port RAM DPRAM is structured as shown in FIG. 5.
The entire address range of the dual port RAM is DPRAM
divided into two address areas AB1, AB2. Everyone is there
Address in the first address area AB1 an address in the second
Address area AB2 assigned. The distance K between each other
assigned addresses is always the same and is, for example
2 KB. Data is in the first address area AB1
and messages are filed and in the second address area AB2
Section data and
Die Daten und Nachrichten des ersten Adreßbereichs AB1 sind blockweise strukturiert. Ein Block D1, D2, Dn wird durch eine Anfangsadresse bezeichnet und ist maximal 8 Byte lang. Der zweite Abschnitt AB2 ist ebenfalls in Blöcken I1, I2, In strukturiert. Jeder Block I1, I2... In des zweiten Adreßbereichs AB2 enthält Informationen, des ihm zugeordneten Blocks D1, D2, Dn des ersten Adreßbereichs AB1. Der Abstand K Anfangsadressen der miteinander in Beziehung stehenden Blöcke D1,I1,..Dn,In der unterschiedlichen Abschnitte AB1, AB2 entsprechen dem Abstand K der miteinander in Beziehung stehenden Adressen der unterschiedlichen Adreßbereiche AB1, AB2.The data and messages of the first address area AB1 are structured in blocks. A block D1, D2, Dn is replaced by a Designates the start address and is a maximum of 8 bytes long. Of the second section AB2 is also in blocks I1, I2, In structured. Each block I1, I2 ... In of the second address area AB2 contains information of the block assigned to it D1, D2, Dn of the first address area AB1. The distance K starting addresses of related blocks D1, I1, .. Dn, in which correspond to different sections AB1, AB2 the distance K of the related Addresses of the different address areas AB1, AB2.
Die Informationen im zweiten Adreßbereich AB2, betreffen den jeweis zugehörigen Daten- und Nachrichtenblock. Diese Informationen können eine Kennzeichnung sein, wonach es sich um eine neue Information handelt, die gesendet werden muß. Es kann auch eine Information darüber sein, auf welche Weise die Information von der Speichereinheit DPRAM zur Funktionseinheit zu melden ist. Die Information kann von der Funktionseinheit selbstständig abgerufen werden (RTR-Bit) oder eine Interruptanforderung macht die Funktionseinheit auf das Vorliegen neuer Informationen im Dualport-RAM DPRAM aufmerksam. Auch die Länge der Daten des zugehörigen Datenblocks im ersten Adreßbereich AB1 ist Bestandteil des Informationsblocks I1..In. Generell handelt es sich demnach um Informationen darüber, wie die Daten und Nachrichten D1..Dn weiter zu verarbeiten sind.The information in the second address area AB2 relates to the associated data and message block. This information can be a label of what it is is new information that needs to be sent. It can also be information about how the Information from the DPRAM memory unit to the functional unit is to be reported. The information can be from the functional unit can be called up independently (RTR bit) or one Interrupt request makes the functional unit on the presence new information in the dual port RAM DPRAM. Also the length of the data of the associated data block in the first Address area AB1 is part of the information block I1..In. In general, it is information about how to process the data and messages D1..Dn further are.
Trägt einer der Prozessoren UP2, UP3 Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn in den ersten Adreßbereich AB1 des Dualport-RAMS DPRAM ein, dann informiert er sich durch Auslesen des entsprechenden Informationsblocks I1..In aus dem Dualport-RAM DPRAM darüber, auf welche Weise der gegenüberliegende Prozessor UP2, UP3 in Besitz dieser Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn gelangen soll. Handelt es sich um Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn, die sich der gegenüberliegende Prozessor selbständig abholen soll, ohne darauf hingewiesen zu werden, sind die Daten durch den Eintrag in den ersten Adreßbereich AB1, gültig übertragen. Geht aus den Informationen des zweiten Adreßbereichs AB2 jedoch hervor, daß der empfangende Mikroprozessor UP2, UP3 durch eine Unterbrechungsroutine auf die Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn hingewiesen werden soll, dann trägt der sendende Prozessor UP2, UP3 die Adresse des ersten beschriebenen Bytes einer Nachricht im ersten Adreßbereich AB1 und die zugehörige Datenlänge in ein First-In-First-Out- (FIFO) Register FIFO1, FIFO2 ein. Das FIFO-Register FIFO1, FIFO2, enthält eine FIFO-Empty-Leitung, die mit dem empfangenden Prozessor UP2, UP3 gekoppelt ist und je Speichereintrag im FIFO-Register FIFO1, FIFO2 einen Interrupt im empfangenden Mikroprozessor UP2, UP3 auslöst. Carries one of the processors UP2, UP3 data or messages D1..Dn in the first address area AB1 of the dual-port RAM DPRAM then he gets information by reading the corresponding one Information blocks I1..In from the dual port RAM DPRAM about how the opposite processor UP2, UP3 come into possession of this data or messages D1..Dn should. Is it data or messages D1..Dn that the opposite processor fetch itself should, without being pointed out, the data is through the entry in the first address area AB1, validly transmitted. Is based on the information in the second address area AB2 however, the receiving microprocessor UP2, UP3 through an interrupt routine on the data or messages D1..Dn should be pointed out, then the sender carries Processor UP2, UP3 the address of the first byte written a message in the first address area AB1 and the associated one Data length in a first-in-first-out (FIFO) register FIFO1, FIFO2 on. The FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2, contains a FIFO empty line, those with the receiving processor UP2, UP3 is coupled and for each memory entry in the FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2 an interrupt in the receiving microprocessor UP2, UP3 triggers.
Jedes FIFO-Register FIFO1, FIFO2, ist für eine Übertragungsrichtung zuständig. So wird das erste FIFO-Register FIFO1 vom dritten Mikroprozessor UP3 beschrieben und vom zweiten Mikroprozessor UP2 gelesen. Das zweite FIFO-Register FIFO2 wird vom zweiten Mikroprozessor UP2 beschrieben und vom dritten Mikroprozessor UP3 gelesen. Die FIFO-Register FIFO1, FIFO2, können 128 verschiedene Meldungen aufnehmen, die einen Interrupt auslösen sollen. Diese Meldungen können sukzessive abgearbeitet werden, ohne daß ihre Reihenfolge verändert wird.Each FIFO register FIFO1, FIFO2, is for one direction of transmission responsible. So the first FIFO register FIFO1 from third microprocessor UP3 and described by the second microprocessor UP2 read. The second FIFO register FIFO2 is described by the second microprocessor UP2 and by the third Microprocessor UP3 read. The FIFO registers FIFO1, FIFO2, can accommodate 128 different messages that generate an interrupt should trigger. These messages can be processed successively without changing their order.
Beim Empfang von Daten durch eine Funktionseinheit SUB1..SUBn ist das oben beschriebene Auswahlverfahren von Vorteil, weil der zweite Mikroprozessor UP2 nur dann in Anspruch genommen wird, wenn es sich um sofort zu berücksichtigende Nachrichten handelt. Hat jedoch die Funktionseinheit SUB1..SUBn neue Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn erzeugt, dann müssen diese unverzüglich den anderen Funktionseinheiten SUB1..SUBn, SPU1..SPUn zur Verfügung stehen. Nur dann ist ein reibungsloser Funktionsablauf ohne Wartezeiten im Druck- oder Kopiergerät möglich.When data is received by a functional unit SUB1..SUBn the selection procedure described above is advantageous because the second microprocessor UP2 only used will when it comes to instant messages acts. However, the functional unit SUB1..SUBn has new data or messages D1..Dn generated, then they must immediately the other functional units SUB1..SUBn, SPU1..SPUn be available. Only then is a smooth functional process possible possible without waiting in the printing or copying machine.
Das unverzügliche Absetzen von Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn wird dadurch begünstigt, daß der zweite Mikroprozessor UP2 bei Vorliegen einer neuen Nachricht einen Eintrag im zweiten FIFO-Register FIFO2 vornimmt. Dies erfolgt unabhängig von der Information im zweiten Adreßbereich AB2 des Dualport-RAMS DPRAM. Der dritte Mikroprozessor UP3 wird somit die Daten oder Nachricht bei nächster Gelegenheit über das Bussystem CANBUS an die anderen Funktionseinheiten SPU, SUB übertragen.The immediate stopping of data or messages D1..Dn is favored in that the second microprocessor UP2 if there is a new message, an entry in the second FIFO register makes FIFO2. This is done regardless of the Information in the second address area AB2 of the dual-port RAM DPRAM. The third microprocessor UP3 is thus the data or message at the next opportunity via the bus system Transfer CANBUS to the other functional units SPU, SUB.
Da die Busschnittstellen aller Funktionseinheiten SPU1..SPU3,
SUB1..SUBn je nach dem, ob es sich um eine Schnittstelle mit
Dualport-RAM oder mit Controller CONT handelt, identisch aufgebaut
sind, steht jeder Funktionseinheit SUB1..SUBn,
SPU1..SPUn stets ein aktuelles Abbild aller Sensoren, Verbraucher
und Steuerungszustände des Druck- oder Kopiergeräts
zur Verfügung. Die Zuordnung von Daten oder Nachrichten
D1..Dn ist deshalb besonders einfach, weil in jedem Dualport-RAM
DPRAM diesen Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn die gleiche
Adresse zugeordnet ist. Beispielsweise werden Daten oder
Nachrichten D1..Dn zum Sensor 1 unter der Anfangsadresse 100
eines DPRAM's abgelegt. Nach ihrer Übermittlung stehen diese
Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn in allen Dualport-RAM's DPRAM
der anderen Funktionseinheiten SUB1..SUBn quasi zeitsynchron
zur Verfügung. Sie müssen nur beginnend mit der Adresse 100
gelesen werden.Since the bus interfaces of all functional units SPU1..SPU3,
SUB1..SUBn depending on whether it is an interface with
Dual port RAM or with CONT controller acts identically
are available, each functional unit SUB1..SUBn,
SPU1..SPUn always a current image of all sensors, consumers
and control states of the printing or copying machine
to disposal. The assignment of data or messages
D1..Dn is particularly simple because in every dual-port RAM
DPRAM this data or messages D1..Dn the same
Address is assigned. For example, data or
Messages D1..Dn to
Da über das Bussystem CANBUS nur nachrichtenorientiert, also nur dann wenn sich Daten oder Nachrichten D1..Dn ändern, Informationen übertragen werden, ist der Datenverkehr auf dem Bussystem CANBUS auf ein Minimum reduziert. Ein Bussystem CANBUS, das für die oben beschriebenen Kommunikationsaufgaben einsetzbar ist, ist aus der CAN-Busspezifikation 2.0, Teile A und B vom April 94, der Firma Philips bekannt.Since the CANBUS bus system is only message-oriented, that is only if data or messages D1..Dn change, information data traffic is on the CANBUS bus system reduced to a minimum. A bus system CANBUS, for the communication tasks described above can be used is from CAN bus specification 2.0, part A and B from April 94, known by Philips.
Claims (9)
- Communication means in an electrographic printer and copier having a plurality of functional units, which are coupled to one another for data communication, havingthe functional units coupled by means of a standard bus system (CANBUS),an interface to the bus system (CANBUS), this interface being assigned to each functional unit and containing a random-access memory unit (DPRAM), in which, in defined address ranges (D1..Dn, I1..In), respectively specific information relating to the functional units can be stored and, by means of the bus system (CANBUS), this information is continuously updated in all the interfaces, so that each functional unit has at any time an overall picture of the functional states in the electrographic printer and copier.
- Communication means according to Claim 1, having a message-oriented bus system (CANBUS), which transmits a change in an item of information immediately to all the functional units.
- Communication means according to either of Claims 1 and 2, having a memory unit (DPRAM) configured as a so-called dual-port RAM in each functional unit, the address range of said RAM being divided into two individual ranges (AB1, AB2), the first address range (AB1) serving to accommodate data and messages and the second address range (AB2) serving to accommodate information relating to the data and messages stored in the first address range (AB1).
- Communication means according to Claim 3, having an assignment in each case of a data or message block (D1..Dn ) to an information block (I1..In), so that the addresses of the respective first byte of the blocks have a specific address spacing (K) from one another.
- Communication means according to one of Claims 1 to 4, having two first-in first-out (FIFO) registers assigned to the interface, one of which can be written by the bus and read by the functional unit and the other being writeable and readable in the converse direction, it being possible to enter into these FIFOs, with random access, the address of a data or message block (D1..Dn ) and the length of the latter in the memory unit (DPRAM), and the action of reading out this information starting an interrupt routine in the reading processor (UP2, UP3).
- Communication means according to one of Claims 1 to 5, having a further interface to the bus system (CANBUS), which interface can be used to couple functional units with small control tasks to the bus system (CANBUS), the further interface being configured such that it allows only the data and messages intended for the respective functional unit to pass.
- Method for communication, in an electrographic printer and copier, between a plurality of functional units, which for data communication are coupled to one another by a standard bus system (CANBUS), having the following method steps:during an initialization, interfaces to the bus system (CANBUS), the interfaces being assigned to each functional unit, are put into a basic state, so that in a random-access memory unit (DPRAM), which is contained in every interface, the basic state data of all the functional units are available in address ranges (D1..Dn ) defined for this in each case,if a change occurs in a state of a functional unit, this change is entered into the affected address range (D1..Dn) of the memory unit (DPRAM) which is assigned to the functional unit, andthis change is transferred by means of the bus system (CANBUS) to the interfaces of all the functional units and stored there, in each case in the affected address range (D1..Dn) of the memory unit (DPRAM), so that each functional unit has at any time a complete picture of the functional states in the electrographic printer and copier.
- Method for communication according to Claim 7, having a memory unit (DPRAM) configured as a so-called dual-port RAM in each functional unit, the address range of said RAM being divided into two individual ranges (AB1, AB2), it being the case that, in the event of a change in a state of a functional unit, data and messages are entered into the first address range (AB1) and information relating to the data and messages stored in the first address range (AB1) is entered into the second address range (AB2).
- Method for communication according to either of Claims 7 and 8, having two first-in first-out (FIFO) registers assigned to the interface, one of which can be written by the bus and read by the functional unit and the other is writeable and readable in the converse direction, it being the case that, depending on the information stored in the memory unit (DPRAM) relating to data and messages to be changed, the address of a data or message block (D1..Dn), and the length of the latter, are entered into the respectively affected FIFO, and the action of reading out this information starts an interrupt routine in the reading processor (UP2, UP3).
Applications Claiming Priority (3)
| Application Number | Priority Date | Filing Date | Title |
|---|---|---|---|
| DE19540672 | 1995-10-31 | ||
| DE19540672 | 1995-10-31 | ||
| PCT/DE1996/001463 WO1997016771A1 (en) | 1995-10-31 | 1996-08-05 | Communication means in electrographic printing and copying apparatus |
Publications (2)
| Publication Number | Publication Date |
|---|---|
| EP0858621A1 EP0858621A1 (en) | 1998-08-19 |
| EP0858621B1 true EP0858621B1 (en) | 1999-03-17 |
Family
ID=7776338
Family Applications (1)
| Application Number | Title | Priority Date | Filing Date |
|---|---|---|---|
| EP96925648A Expired - Lifetime EP0858621B1 (en) | 1995-10-31 | 1996-08-05 | Communication means in electrographic printing and copying apparatus |
Country Status (5)
| Country | Link |
|---|---|
| US (1) | US6122462A (en) |
| EP (1) | EP0858621B1 (en) |
| JP (1) | JP2000500880A (en) |
| DE (1) | DE59601474D1 (en) |
| WO (1) | WO1997016771A1 (en) |
Cited By (8)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9125455B2 (en) | 2010-01-21 | 2015-09-08 | Boa Technology Inc. | Guides for lacing systems |
| USD751281S1 (en) | 2014-08-12 | 2016-03-15 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Footwear tightening reels |
| USD758061S1 (en) | 2014-09-08 | 2016-06-07 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Lace tightening device |
| US9375053B2 (en) | 2012-03-15 | 2016-06-28 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Tightening mechanisms and applications including the same |
| USD767269S1 (en) | 2014-08-26 | 2016-09-27 | Boa Technology Inc. | Footwear tightening reel |
| US9532626B2 (en) | 2013-04-01 | 2017-01-03 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Methods and devices for retrofitting footwear to include a reel based closure system |
| USD776421S1 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2017-01-17 | Boa Technology, Inc. | In-footwear lace tightening reel |
| US10182935B2 (en) | 2014-10-01 | 2019-01-22 | Ossur Hf | Support for articles and methods for using the same |
Families Citing this family (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US20060156517A1 (en) | 1997-08-22 | 2006-07-20 | Hammerslag Gary R | Reel based closure system |
| DE19844859A1 (en) * | 1998-09-30 | 2000-04-20 | Eastman Kodak Co | A method of controlling the flow of paper through a paper processing system |
| DE19850469A1 (en) | 1998-11-02 | 2000-05-11 | Siemens Ag | Automation system and method for accessing the functionality of hardware components |
| US6389262B1 (en) | 2001-04-06 | 2002-05-14 | Hewlett-Packard Company | Media reproduction systems and methods of operating media reproduction systems |
| US10702409B2 (en) | 2013-02-05 | 2020-07-07 | Boa Technology Inc. | Closure devices for medical devices and methods |
| US9629417B2 (en) | 2013-07-02 | 2017-04-25 | Boa Technology Inc. | Tension limiting mechanisms for closure devices and methods therefor |
| WO2015035257A2 (en) | 2013-09-05 | 2015-03-12 | Boa Technology Inc. | Alternative lacing guides for tightening mechanisms and methods therefor |
| WO2015039052A2 (en) | 2013-09-13 | 2015-03-19 | Boa Technology Inc. | Failure compensating lace tension devices and methods |
| KR101895140B1 (en) | 2013-11-18 | 2018-09-04 | 보아 테크놀러지, 인크. | Methods and devices for providing automatic closure of prosthetics and orthotics |
| USD835898S1 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2018-12-18 | Boa Technology Inc. | Footwear lace tightening reel stabilizer |
Family Cites Families (10)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US4062061A (en) * | 1976-04-15 | 1977-12-06 | Xerox Corporation | Error log for electrostatographic machines |
| US4306803A (en) * | 1977-08-30 | 1981-12-22 | Xerox Corporation | Microprocessor and control apparatus in a photocopier |
| US4523299A (en) * | 1982-09-21 | 1985-06-11 | Xerox Corporation | Message transmitting system for reproduction machines and copiers |
| US4811052A (en) * | 1985-08-08 | 1989-03-07 | Canon Kabushiki Kaisha | Control device for control of multi-function control units in an image processing apparatus |
| US5164769A (en) * | 1988-06-24 | 1992-11-17 | Ricoh Company, Ltd. | Method and apparatus for controlling data communication in a copying system |
| JP2734533B2 (en) * | 1988-07-12 | 1998-03-30 | ミノルタ株式会社 | Image forming device |
| US5087940A (en) * | 1990-08-23 | 1992-02-11 | Eastman Kodak Company | Control system for document reproduction machines |
| US5283613A (en) * | 1993-02-19 | 1994-02-01 | Xerox Corporation | Monitoring system with dual memory for electrophotographic printing machines using replaceable cartridges |
| US5471313A (en) * | 1993-02-24 | 1995-11-28 | Xerox Corporation | Method and control system architecture for controlling tone reproduction in a printing device |
| JP3559661B2 (en) * | 1996-10-22 | 2004-09-02 | キヤノン株式会社 | Image forming apparatus and control device |
-
1996
- 1996-08-05 JP JP9516969A patent/JP2000500880A/en active Pending
- 1996-08-05 WO PCT/DE1996/001463 patent/WO1997016771A1/en active IP Right Grant
- 1996-08-05 US US09/066,417 patent/US6122462A/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1996-08-05 DE DE59601474T patent/DE59601474D1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
- 1996-08-05 EP EP96925648A patent/EP0858621B1/en not_active Expired - Lifetime
Cited By (9)
| Publication number | Priority date | Publication date | Assignee | Title |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| US9125455B2 (en) | 2010-01-21 | 2015-09-08 | Boa Technology Inc. | Guides for lacing systems |
| US9375053B2 (en) | 2012-03-15 | 2016-06-28 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Tightening mechanisms and applications including the same |
| US9532626B2 (en) | 2013-04-01 | 2017-01-03 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Methods and devices for retrofitting footwear to include a reel based closure system |
| USD751281S1 (en) | 2014-08-12 | 2016-03-15 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Footwear tightening reels |
| USD767269S1 (en) | 2014-08-26 | 2016-09-27 | Boa Technology Inc. | Footwear tightening reel |
| USD758061S1 (en) | 2014-09-08 | 2016-06-07 | Boa Technology, Inc. | Lace tightening device |
| US10182935B2 (en) | 2014-10-01 | 2019-01-22 | Ossur Hf | Support for articles and methods for using the same |
| US11304838B2 (en) | 2014-10-01 | 2022-04-19 | Ossur Hf | Support for articles and methods for using the same |
| USD776421S1 (en) | 2015-01-16 | 2017-01-17 | Boa Technology, Inc. | In-footwear lace tightening reel |
Also Published As
| Publication number | Publication date |
|---|---|
| WO1997016771A1 (en) | 1997-05-09 |
| US6122462A (en) | 2000-09-19 |
| DE59601474D1 (en) | 1999-04-22 |
| JP2000500880A (en) | 2000-01-25 |
| EP0858621A1 (en) | 1998-08-19 |
Similar Documents
| Publication | Publication Date | Title |
|---|---|---|
| EP0858621B1 (en) | Communication means in electrographic printing and copying apparatus | |
| EP1456722B1 (en) | Data transmission method, serial bus system and switch-on unit for a passive station | |
| DE2162806C2 (en) | Memory control unit for simplified buffering of requests from the input / output channels | |
| DE69916937T2 (en) | INPUT OUTPUT SUB-SYSTEM OF A CONTROL SYSTEM | |
| DE3204905C2 (en) | ||
| EP1368935B1 (en) | Synchronous, clocked communication system with local input/output components and method for integrating local input/output components into such a system | |
| DE3238532C3 (en) | Data communications equipment | |
| DE69921446T2 (en) | TRANSMISSION STRUCTURE FOR INDUSTRIAL PROCESS CONTROL SYSTEMS | |
| DE4023471C2 (en) | Control system with host computer and communication interface circuit | |
| EP1361517A2 (en) | Data processing method and apparatus therefore | |
| DE4340048A1 (en) | Device for exchanging data and method for operating the device | |
| EP1168120B1 (en) | Method and device for serial data transmission between a position measuring system and a processing unit | |
| WO2003096637A2 (en) | Method and system for transmitting data via switchable data networks | |
| EP1095320B1 (en) | Control system with personal computer | |
| DE60025969T2 (en) | Automotive control system and method suitable for revising the control data transfer function | |
| EP0739509B1 (en) | Arrangement with master and slave units | |
| EP0419721B1 (en) | Communication system for programmable logic controllers linked to each other | |
| DE112008002252B4 (en) | Transmitting device, transmission method and communication system | |
| EP0193096A2 (en) | Interface device | |
| EP1316891B1 (en) | Data communication system | |
| DE60005157T2 (en) | METHOD AND ARRANGEMENT FOR BLOCK DATA TRANSFER | |
| DE3937021A1 (en) | Data transfer control between central unit and subscribers - uses divided dual port memory and interface identification memory for connecting of subscribers with different protocols | |
| DE2815716C2 (en) | Circuit arrangement for transmitting addressed digital information | |
| EP0562151A1 (en) | Integrated microprocessor | |
| EP0531559B1 (en) | Controller to control data transfer between one of several input-output modules and the main memory of a data-processing device |
Legal Events
| Date | Code | Title | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| PUAI | Public reference made under article 153(3) epc to a published international application that has entered the european phase |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009012 |
|
| 17P | Request for examination filed |
Effective date: 19980312 |
|
| AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: A1 Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB |
|
| GRAG | Despatch of communication of intention to grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA |
|
| GRAG | Despatch of communication of intention to grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS AGRA |
|
| GRAH | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA |
|
| 17Q | First examination report despatched |
Effective date: 19980831 |
|
| GRAH | Despatch of communication of intention to grant a patent |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: EPIDOS IGRA |
|
| GRAA | (expected) grant |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009210 |
|
| AK | Designated contracting states |
Kind code of ref document: B1 Designated state(s): BE DE FR GB |
|
| REF | Corresponds to: |
Ref document number: 59601474 Country of ref document: DE Date of ref document: 19990422 |
|
| ET | Fr: translation filed | ||
| GBT | Gb: translation of ep patent filed (gb section 77(6)(a)/1977) |
Effective date: 19990520 |
|
| PLBE | No opposition filed within time limit |
Free format text: ORIGINAL CODE: 0009261 |
|
| STAA | Information on the status of an ep patent application or granted ep patent |
Free format text: STATUS: NO OPPOSITION FILED WITHIN TIME LIMIT |
|
| 26N | No opposition filed | ||
| REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: GB Ref legal event code: IF02 |
|
| PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Payment date: 20070830 Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
| PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Payment date: 20070823 Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
| PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Payment date: 20070821 Year of fee payment: 12 |
|
| GBPC | Gb: european patent ceased through non-payment of renewal fee |
Effective date: 20080805 |
|
| REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: FR Ref legal event code: ST Effective date: 20090430 |
|
| PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: BE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20080831 |
|
| PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: FR Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20080901 |
|
| PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: GB Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20080805 |
|
| PGFP | Annual fee paid to national office [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Payment date: 20101029 Year of fee payment: 15 |
|
| PG25 | Lapsed in a contracting state [announced via postgrant information from national office to epo] |
Ref country code: DE Free format text: LAPSE BECAUSE OF NON-PAYMENT OF DUE FEES Effective date: 20130301 |
|
| REG | Reference to a national code |
Ref country code: DE Ref legal event code: R119 Ref document number: 59601474 Country of ref document: DE Effective date: 20130301 |