JP4508336B2 - Information processing apparatus and information processing method for displaying information on image processing apparatus - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to an information processing apparatus, an information processing method, and a program for displaying information related to a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network.Media containingAbout.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventionally, with respect to a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to a network, all information of the apparatus itself such as equipment information, apparatus state, network setting status, job history, usage status, etc. is acquired and from a computer connected to the same network Network utility software for managing these image forming apparatuses is known.
[0003]
However, this network utility software identifies one image forming apparatus from among a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected on the network, and then installs equipment information, apparatus status, network setting status of the specific image forming apparatus, It was to see the background of the job and the usage status.
[0004]
Further, there has been network utility software that displays only a single parameter simultaneously for a plurality of image forming apparatuses. However, there has been no utility software having a user-friendly GUI (screen) that allows the user to make an immediate determination by displaying part or all of the information.
[0005]
In addition, there is utility software that can rank, rearrange, and search the devices according to parameters that are unique to multiple image forming devices or parameters that represent the capabilities of the image forming devices. I didn't.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION An object of the present invention is to solve the above-described conventional problems, and display a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to a network by rearranging and displaying the image forming apparatuses in a desired order according to the purpose of use of the user. It is possible to search for an image forming apparatus immediately or to provide the user with equipment information, apparatus status, network setting status, job history, and usage status of a desired image forming apparatus in real time.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  To achieve the above object, the present invention is capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing devices connected to a network, and a server device that collects device information from the plurality of image processing devices and manages them in a database, and a display unit An input unit for inputting a display category and display conditions when displaying device information on the plurality of image processing devices on a display unit,The information processing apparatus with respect to the server apparatusThe server deviceofManaged by databaseBe doneRequesting means for requesting device information relating to the plurality of image processing apparatuses, and display conditions input by the input means when displaying device information relating to the plurality of image processing apparatuses acquired as a response to the request by the requesting means Display control means for arranging and displaying device information on the display unit according to the order of the plurality of image processing devices attached based on the display category, and the type of device information to be displayed for each display category is set. The display control means displays the type of device information to be displayed based on the display category input by the input means.
[0008]
  Also,An information processing apparatus that can communicate with a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network and includes a display unit, and inputs display categories and display conditions for displaying device information on the plurality of image processing apparatuses on the display unit Input means for requesting, device information relating to the plurality of image processing devices, requesting means for requesting the plurality of image processing devices, and device information relating to the plurality of image processing devices to obtain as response to the request by the requesting means Display means for displaying device information on the display unit in accordance with the display conditions input by the input means, and the type of device information to be displayed is set for each display category. The display control means displays the device information of the type to be displayed based on the display category input by the input means. The features.
[0040]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
<System overview>
FIG. 1 is an external view showing a configuration of a system in the embodiment. In the figure, reference numeral 101 denotes a network to which a plurality of network devices are connected. A computer 102 is connected to the network 101 and operates as a server. A computer 103 is connected to the network 101 and operates as a client. Actually, there are several clients 103 on the network as shown by 103a to 103b in FIG. 1, but only 103 is represented here as a representative.
[0041]
Reference numeral 104 denotes a network device connected to the network 101, which is a multipurpose image forming apparatus called MFP (Multi Function Peripheral). There are several network devices 104 on the network 101 as shown by 104a, 104b and 104c in FIG. In addition, a printer, a FAX (not shown), or the like may be connected to the network 101.
[0042]
Here, on the computer 102 (or 103), so-called DTP (Desk Top Publishing) application software operates, and various documents and graphics are created or edited. Various documents and graphics created or edited are converted into a PDL language (Page Description Language), sent to the MFP 104 via the network 101, and output.
[0043]
On the other hand, the MFP 104 has a communication interface for exchanging information with the computer 102 (or 103) via the network 101. Information and status of the MFP 104 are sequentially notified to the computer 102 (or 103). Further, in the computer 102 (or 103), utility software operates upon receiving such information, and centrally manages the MFPs 104 (104a, 104b, 104c,...).
[0044]
The network 101 in FIG. 1 may actually be a network as shown in FIG. In this network, a plurality of routers 3601 to 3604 constitute a first LAN (Local Area Network) 3606. The router 3205 constitutes a second LAN 3607. Further, the first LAN 3606 and the second LAN 3607 are connected to each other via a dedicated line 3208.
[0045]
FIG. 33 shows a state of data transfer between devices in such a network. For example, regardless of whether the data 3321 transmitted by the transmission source device 3701 (device A) is image data, PDL data, or program data, the data 3321 is first divided into divided data. Set 3322. Then, a header 3325 is added to each of the divided data 3323, 3324, and 3326 of the divided data set 3322, and packets 3327 to 3330 are generated and sequentially sent to the network. The header 3325 includes a destination address (when the TCP / IP protocol is used, the IP address of the destination device 3702 (device B)). When the address of the device 3702 and the address included in the header 3331 of the packet 3330 match, the data 3332 is separated and taken into the device 3702.
[0046]
Device B receives each piece of divided data as described above. Then, the data 3336 is restored from the divided data set 3335.
[0047]
<MFP 104>
Next, the configuration of the MFP 104 will be described. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the MFP 104. As illustrated, the MFP 104 transmits and receives image data using a scanner unit 201 that reads an image, an IP unit 202 that performs image processing on the read image data, and a telephone line such as a facsimile. Described in the FAX unit 203, a NIC (Network Interface Card) unit 204 that exchanges image data and device information using a network, and a page description language (PDL) sent from the computer via the NIC unit 204 A PDL unit 205 that expands data into bitmap image data, a core unit 206 that temporarily stores image data according to how the MFP 104 is used, and a path that determines a path, and pulses for image data output from the core unit 206 PWM unit 207 that performs width modulation (PWM), printer unit 208 that performs image formation, and paper A finisher unit 209 that performs the output finishing process, and a display unit 210 that provides a preview function for preventing the image from being printed or for determining whether the print state is right or wrong.
[0048]
<Scanner unit 201>
Next, the configuration and operation of the scanner unit 201 will be described. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the scanner unit 201. When copying a document, a document 302 to be read is placed on a document table glass 301. The original 302 is irradiated with illumination 303, and an image is formed on the CCD 308 by the optical system 307 through mirrors 304, 305, and 306. Further, the first mirror unit 310 including the mirror 304 and the illumination 303 is mechanically driven by the motor 309 in the direction of the arrow in the drawing, and the second mirror unit 311 including the mirrors 305 and 306 is indicated by the arrow in the drawing. It is driven at a speed of 1/2 v in the direction, and the entire surface of the original 302 is scanned.
[0049]
<Image Processing (IP) Unit 202>
Next, the image processing unit 202 will be described. FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the image processing unit 202. The input optical signal is converted into an electrical signal by the CCD sensor 308. The CCD sensor 308 is an RGB line color sensor, and RGB electrical signals are input to the A / D converter 401. Here, after gain adjustment and offset adjustment, 8-bit digital image signals R0, G0, B0 are generated for each color signal by the A / D converter. Thereafter, the shading correction circuit 402 performs known shading correction using the read signal of the reference white plate for each color. Further, since the color line sensors of the CCD sensor 308 are arranged at a predetermined distance from each other, the line delay adjustment circuit 403 corrects the spatial deviation in the sub-scanning direction.
[0050]
Next, the input masking unit 404 converts the reading color space determined by the spectral characteristics of the R, G, and B filters of the CCD sensor 308 into the NTSC standard color space. A 3 × 3 matrix operation is performed using device-specific constants that take into account various characteristics such as spectral characteristics, and the input luminance signals (R0, G0, B0) are converted into standard luminance signals (R, G, B). Convert to
[0051]
Further, a luminance / density conversion unit (LOG conversion unit) 405 is configured by a look-up table (LUT), and converts RGB luminance signals into C1, M1, and Y1 density signals.
[0052]
Next, the output masking / UCR circuit unit 406 is a part that converts the M1, C1, and Y1 signals into Y, M, C, and K signals that are toner colors of the image forming apparatus using a matrix operation. The C1, M1, Y1, and K1 signals based on the RGB signals read in step 1 are corrected to C, M, Y, and K signals based on the spectral distribution characteristics of the toner and output. The gamma correction unit 407 converts the image data into C, M, Y, and K data for image output using a look-up table (LUT) that takes into account the color characteristics of the toner, and the spatial filter 408 provides sharpness. Alternatively, after smoothing, the image signal is sent to the core unit 206.
[0053]
<FAX section 203>
Next, the FAX unit 203 will be described. FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the FAX unit 203. First, at the time of reception, the NCU unit 501 receives data sent from the telephone line, converts the voltage, performs A / D conversion and demodulation operation by the demodulation unit 504 in the modem unit 502, and then expands by the expansion unit 506. Expand to raster data. In general, a run-length method or the like is used for FAX compression / expansion, but since it is known, the description thereof is omitted here. The raster data is temporarily stored in the memory unit 507, and after it is confirmed that there is no transfer error, it is sent to the core unit 206.
[0054]
Next, at the time of transmission, the raster data transferred from the core unit 206 is subjected to compression such as a run length method by the compression unit 505, and D / A conversion and modulation operation are performed by the modulation unit 503 in the modem unit 502. After that, it is sent to the telephone line via the NCU unit 501.
[0055]
<NIC unit 204>
Next, the NIC unit 204 will be described. FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating configurations of the NIC unit 204 and the PDL unit 205. The NIC unit 204 provides an interface function for the network 101 shown in FIG. For example, it plays a role of obtaining information from an external device or flowing information to the external device via an Ethernet cable such as 10Base-T.
[0056]
When obtaining information from an external device via a network, first, the voltage is converted by the transformer unit 601 and sent to the LAN controller unit 602. The LAN controller unit 602 includes a buffer memory 1 (not shown) therein. After determining whether the information is necessary information, the LAN controller unit 602 sends it to the buffer memory 2 (not shown). Output a signal to
[0057]
Next, when providing information to the outside, necessary information is added by the LAN controller unit 602 to the data sent from the PDL unit 205 and transferred to the network via the transformer unit 601.
[0058]
<PDL unit 205>
Next, the PDL unit 205 will be described with reference to FIG. An image created by application software running on a computer is composed of documents, figures, photographs, and the like. The data representing this image is composed of combinations of image description elements such as character codes, graphic codes, and raster image data. These are described in so-called PDL (Page Description Language). The PDL unit 205 is a part that performs conversion processing from data described in PDL (hereinafter referred to as PDL data) to bitmap image data.
[0059]
The PDL data sent from the NIC unit 204 is temporarily stored in a large capacity memory 604 such as a hard disk (HDD), where it is managed and saved for each job. Next, if necessary, the CPU 603 executes rasterized image processing called RIP (Raster Image Processing) to develop PDL data into raster image data. The developed raster image data is stored in a page unit for each job in a high-speed accessible memory 605 such as a DRAM and sent to the core unit 206 according to the status of the printer unit 208.
[0060]
<Core part 206>
Next, the core unit 206 will be described. FIG. 7 is a block diagram showing a configuration of the core unit 206. The bus selector unit 701 in the core unit 206 plays a role of traffic control in the MFP 104. In other words, the bus selector unit 701 switches the bus according to the function of the MFP 104, such as a stand-alone copying function, network scanning, network printing, facsimile transmission / reception, display display, and the like.
[0061]
More specifically, data flows as follows according to the function.
[0062]
・ Stand-alone copying: Scanner 201 → Core 206 → Printer 208
・ Network scan: Scanner 201 → Core 206 → NIC unit 204
-Network printing: NIC unit 204-> core 206-> printer 208
・ Facsimile transmission function: Scanner 201 → Core 206 → FAX section 203
-Facsimile reception function: FAX section 203-> core 206-> printer 208
・ Display function: Scanner 201 → Core 206 → Display 210
(However, the display display function may be input from the FAX unit 203 or the NIC unit 204.)
[0063]
The image data output from the bus selector unit 701 is sent to the printer unit 208 or the display unit 210 through a compression unit 702, a memory unit 703 including a large capacity memory such as a hard disk (HDD), and an expansion unit 704. The compression method used here may be a general method such as JPEG, JBIG, ZIP.
[0064]
The image data compressed by the compression unit 702 is managed for each job and stored in the memory unit 703 together with additional data such as a file name, a creator, a creation date and time, and a file size. Furthermore, if a job number and a password are provided and stored together in the memory unit 703, the personal box function can be supported. This is a function in which data is temporarily stored and printed out (reading data from the HDD) by a specific person. When the user calls a specified job among the stored jobs, password authentication is performed, the data is called from the HDD, the image is decompressed, and the raster image data is restored. And sent to the printer unit 207.
[0065]
<PWM unit 207>
Next, the PWM unit 207 will be described. FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating the configuration of the PWM unit 207 and pulse width modulation (PWM). First, image data separated into four colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K) from the core unit 206 is passed through the PWM unit 207 to form an image. Is done.
[0066]
In FIG. 8, reference numeral 801 denotes a triangular wave generator, which generates a triangular wave. Reference numeral 802 denotes a D / A converter which converts an input digital image signal into an analog signal. A comparator 803 compares the triangular wave 811 and the image signal 812 as illustrated, and outputs a PWM signal 813. Reference numeral 804 denotes a laser driving unit that controls ON / OFF of each of the CMYK lasers according to the PWM signal 813 from the comparator 803. Reference numeral 805 denotes a CMYK semiconductor laser that irradiates a laser beam. Then, each laser beam is scanned by a polygon scanner 913 to be described later, and is irradiated to each photosensitive drum 917, 921, 925, 929.
[0067]
<Printer unit 208>
Next, the printer unit 208 will be described. FIG. 9 is a side sectional view showing the structure of the printer unit 208. In FIG. 9, reference numeral 913 denotes a poringon mirror which receives four laser beams (CMYK) emitted from four semiconductor lasers 805. Of these, yellow (Y) scans the photosensitive drum 917 through mirrors 914, 915, and 916, and the next magenta (M) scans the photosensitive drum 921 through mirrors 918, 919, and 920, and the next cyan (C ) Scans the photosensitive drum 925 through mirrors 922, 923, and 924, and the next black (K) scans the photosensitive drum 929 through mirrors 926, 927, and 928.
[0068]
On the other hand, 930 is a developing device that supplies yellow (Y) toner, forms a yellow toner image on the photosensitive drum 917 in accordance with the laser beam, and 931 is a developing device that supplies magenta (M) toner. , A magenta toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 921 in accordance with the laser light, and a developing device 932 supplies cyan (C) toner. A cyan toner image is formed on the photosensitive drum 925 in accordance with the laser light. , 933 is a developing device that supplies black (K) toner, and forms a black toner image on the photosensitive drum 929 in accordance with the laser beam. As described above, the toner images of four colors (Y, M, C, K) are transferred to the paper, and a full color output image can be obtained.
[0069]
The paper fed from any of the paper cassettes 934 and 935 and the manual feed tray 936 is attracted onto the transfer belt 938 via the registration roller 937 and conveyed. Further, in synchronization with the sheet feeding timing, toner of each color is developed in advance on the photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929, and the toner is transferred onto the sheet as the sheet is conveyed.
[0070]
The sheet on which the toner of each color is transferred is separated and conveyed by the conveyance belt 939, and the toner is fixed on the sheet by the fixing device 940.
[0071]
The four photosensitive drums 917, 921, 925, and 929 are arranged at equal intervals with a distance d, and the sheet is conveyed at a constant speed v by the conveyance belt 939. The four semiconductor lasers 805 are driven.
[0072]
<Finisher 209>
Next, the finisher unit 209 will be described. FIG. 10 is a side sectional view showing the structure of the finisher unit 209. The sheet that has exited the fixing unit 940 of the printer unit 208 is input to the finisher unit 209. As shown in the drawing, the finisher unit 209 is provided with a sample tray 1001 and a stack tray 1002, which are switched according to the type of job and the number of discharged sheets, and the sheets are discharged to each.
[0073]
In addition, the sorting method uses a bin sorting method in which a plurality of bins are allocated to each bin, and an electronic sorting function described later, and bins (or trays) are shifted in the back and front directions and output for each job. There are shift sort methods for sorting the sheets, and sorting (sorting) is performed by these methods.
[0074]
Here, the electronic sort function is called collate, and the large-capacity memory described in the core unit 206 is used. Use buffer memory to change buffered page order and ejection order.
[0075]
In addition, while the sorting described above is assigned to each job, it also has a group function for classifying each page. Further, when discharging to the stack tray 1002, it is also possible to store the sheets before discharging the sheets for each job and bind them by the stapler 1005 immediately before discharging.
[0076]
In addition, there is a Z-folding machine 1004 for folding paper into a Z-shape before reaching the two trays described above. There is also a puncher 1006 that makes two (or three) holes for a file. Each process is performed according to the type of job. The inserter 1003 is used to perform a middle insertion function, and a middle insertion sheet can be placed therein. Further, the saddle stitcher 1007 is used to fold the paper into a booklet format and bind the middle. In this case, the bound paper is discharged to the booklet tray 1008.
[0077]
<Display unit 210>
Next, the display unit 210 will be described. FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the display unit 210. First, since the image data output from the core unit 206 is CMYK data, the inverse LOG conversion unit 1101 converts the image data into RGB data. Next, in order to match the color characteristics of the display device 1104 such as the CRT to be output, the gamma conversion unit 1102 performs output conversion using a lookup table. The converted image data is temporarily stored in the memory unit 1103 and displayed on a display device 1104 such as a CRT.
[0078]
The display unit 210 provides a preview function for the user to confirm the output image in advance, and a proof function for verifying whether the image output by the user is correct as intended. Alternatively, waste of printing paper can be eliminated by checking in advance on the display unit 210 an image that the user does not need to print.
[0079]
<Configuration of server and client>
Next, the control configuration of the server 102 and the client 103 will be described. FIG. 38 is a host computer on which the network utility software described below operates, and is a host computer for realizing the server 102 and the client 103 of FIG.
[0080]
The CPU 3801 executes utility software programs stored in a storage medium such as a ROM 3802, a hard disk (HD) 3811, a floppy disk (FD) 3812, and collectively controls each device connected to the system bus 3804. .
[0081]
Reference numeral 3803 denotes a RAM which functions as a main memory and work area of the CPU 3801. Reference numeral 3805 denotes a keyboard controller (KBC) which controls an instruction input by a user from a keyboard (KB) 3809 or a pointing device (not shown). Reference numeral 3806 denotes a CRT controller (CRTC) which controls display on a CRT display (CRT) 3810. A disk controller (DKC) 3807 controls access to a hard disk (HD) 3811 and a floppy disk (FD) 3812 that store a boot program, various applications, edit files, user files, a network device management program, and the like. Reference numeral 3808 denotes a network interface card (NIC) that exchanges data with the MFP 104 bidirectionally via the LAN 101.
[0082]
In all the explanations to be described later, the execution hardware main body is the CPU 3801 and the software main body is network utility software stored in the hard disk (HD) 311 or the like unless otherwise specified.
[0083]
<Description of network utility software>
Returning to FIG. 1, the utility software that runs on the client 103 will be described. In the network interface unit (NIC unit 204 + PDL unit 205) in the MFP 104, a standardized database called MIB (Management Information Base) is constructed. The network interface unit communicates with a computer on the network via a network management protocol called SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). By using the SNMP and MIB, management of the MFP 104, printers and faxes connected to other networks is realized.
[0084]
On the other hand, a software program called utility software operates on the computer 102 (or 103). This utility software communicates with the MFP 104 via the network using SNMP, and performs necessary information exchange using the MIB.
[0085]
For example, the utility software reads the information using the MIB, thereby detecting whether the finisher unit 209 is connected as the equipment information of the MFP 104 and detecting whether the current printing is possible as the status information. Or the name and location of the MFP 104 can be detected. Furthermore, by writing information using the MIB, the name and location of the MFP 104 can be changed. Furthermore, if all the clients can write information, it becomes difficult to manage devices (management of database related to device information). Therefore, read / write of information of each user is restricted, or the server 102 and the client 103 It is also possible to restrict read / write by distinguishing the above.
[0086]
Specifically, the network shown in FIG. 31 includes a server 102, a client 103a, a client 103b, an MFP 104a, an MFP 104b, and an MFP 104c. The respective IP addresses are 192.168.1.11, 192.168.1.51, 192.168.1.52, 192.168.1.101, 192.168.1.102, 192.168 .. 1.103. The subnet mask is set to 255.255.255.0 for all devices.
[0087]
At this time, the client 103b designates the IP address as 192.168.1.255 and transmits a message (MIB object). This message is a message for inquiring about the value of the MIB object “sysDescr” indicating the name of the device. This message is broadcast and received by the MFP 104a, MFP 104b, and MFP 104c. In response, the MFP 104a returns a message. This message is a message indicating that the registered name is “Device-A” (the MIB value of sysDescr is “Device-A”). The MFP 104b and the MFP 104c also return a similar message.
[0088]
In other words, the utility software can obtain all kinds of information such as equipment information of the MFP 104, apparatus status, network settings, job history, and usage status by using the above-described functions.
[0089]
<Description of GUI>
Next, a screen of utility software that runs on the computer 102 (or 103) called GUI (Graphic User Interface) will be described. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a screen of utility software.
[0090]
First, when utility software is started on the computer 102 (or 103), a screen as shown in FIG. 12 is displayed. Here, 1201 is a window and 1208 is a cursor. When the user uses the mouse to move the cursor to a predetermined part of the window and clicks, another window opens or the window changes to the next state.
[0091]
1202 is called a title bar, and is used to display the hierarchy and title of the current window. Each of 1203 to 1207 is called a tab and is arranged for each classification, and the user can view necessary information or select necessary information by selecting the tab. In the example of FIG. 12, 1203 is called a device tab, and the existence of the device and its outline can be known. Reference numeral 1204 denotes a status tab, which can know the status of each device. Reference numeral 1205 denotes a queue tab, which allows the user to know the state of jobs queued in each apparatus and how busy the devices are. Reference numeral 1206 denotes a configuration tab that allows the user to know the equipment information of the apparatus. Reference numeral 1207 denotes a setup tab which allows the user to know the network setting information of the apparatus.
[0092]
<Description of device tab>
Next, a device tab of the above-described utility software will be described with reference to FIG. First, when a device tab 1203 is clicked, items of a sorting function (sorting) and a condition selection function (selecting) appear. Here, the rearrangement function is a function for sorting a plurality of MFPs 104 connected to the network according to the following parameters when displaying a list. Various parameters such as 1211 to 1216 are prepared for sorting. In 1211, the MFPs 104 are arranged in the order of favorite devices. 1212 arranges the MFPs 104 in the order of devices close to the device installation location and the client location. In step 1213, the MFPs 104 are arranged in order of increasing or decreasing device print speed. In step 1214, the MFPs 104 are arranged in the order of device reliability (for example, the frequency of occurrence of paper jams and errors). In 1215, the MFPs 104 are arranged in the order of the lowest price per print. In step 1216, the MFPs 104 are arranged in the order of the latest device purchase time. Although not displayed in FIG. 12, it is also possible to rearrange them according to the apparatus status and usage level of the MFP 104 such as the wear level of the consumables used in the MFP 104, the remaining toner amount, and the remaining paper amount. .
[0093]
The condition selection function is a function for narrowing down the devices to be displayed by a condition when displaying a list of devices. Various parameters such as 1217 to 1222 are prepared as conditions. Reference numeral 1217 displays only devices that are in a printable state on the network (those that are turned off or that are undergoing jamming are not selected). Reference numeral 1218 displays only devices capable of color output (or input). Reference numeral 1219 displays only devices equipped with the FAX function. Reference numeral 1220 displays only a device having a scanner function. 1221 displays only a device equipped with a finisher function. 1222 displays only the above-mentioned device mounted with a personal box.
[0094]
In addition, although not shown here, only devices with a print speed of more than this, or only devices that can output paper of a size larger than A3 / 11 × 17 are displayed. It is also possible to display only devices that meet the selection conditions according to the capabilities and functions of the MFP 104.
[0095]
There are similar sorting and selecting functions on the status tab, queue tab, configuration tab, and setup tab.
[0096]
<Explanation of device ranking>
Actually, in FIG. 12, when an item “Faster” 1213 is clicked, a plurality of MFPs 104 on the network are rearranged in the descending order of the printing speed of the apparatus, and the window screen transitions to a display as shown in FIG. .
[0097]
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a speed ranking screen. In this screen, all (or a part) of MFPs 104 connected on the network are arranged in descending order (or ascending order) in accordance with the parameter (in this case, speed 1213) selected in FIG. It has been replaced and displayed. Specifically, in order to display the ranking, the utility software communicates with all (or part of) MFPs 104 on the network using SNMP / MIB and sorts and displays the information in the network utility. is doing.
[0098]
In FIG. 13, reference numeral 1301 denotes a window, and reference numeral 1302 denotes a title bar, which represents the hierarchy of this window. Further, 1310 is a ranking order, 1311 is a device name, and 1312 to 1317 are parameters displayed in FIG. 12, and each of the favorite device order, device location, device print speed, device reliability, print unit price, purchase The time is also written.
[0099]
Reference numerals 1303 to 1309 at the bottom of the window are buttons for transitioning to another window. Here, reference numeral 1306 denotes a function for narrowing down by giving a selection condition to the ranking information. Reference numerals 1307 and 1308 are buttons for displaying the previous page and the next page when the ranking display covers a plurality of pages. Reference numeral 1309 denotes a button for returning to the screen shown in FIG.
[0100]
Next, when the graph button 1303 is clicked, the window 1301 transitions to FIG. Here, the ranking shown in FIG. 13 is displayed in a graph so that the user can easily determine the capabilities of each device.
[0101]
<Description of device selecting>
FIG. 17 is a window displayed when a color machine is selected in the selecting shown in FIG. In this window, only devices that can be output (or input) by the color machine in the entire network are displayed. Furthermore, various parameters are displayed for each device.
[0102]
When one of the narrowed-down devices is selected and clicked, detailed information as shown in FIGS. 16 and 21 appears, and the specifications and information of those devices can be confirmed.
[0103]
<Description of device map>
Further, when 1304 shown in FIG. 13 (or 1404 shown in FIG. 14) is clicked, the window changes to a map screen as shown in FIG. FIG. 15 is a diagram schematically showing a network environment in a three-story building. The floors 1F, 2F, and 3F are displayed, and A, B, C, 1, 2, and 3 display the position of the MFP 104 that exists on each floor. Note that 1313 shown in FIG. 13 is represented by the floor (1F, 2F, 3F), the vertical axis (1, 2, 3), and the horizontal axis (A, B, C) in FIG.
[0104]
In FIG. 15, reference numeral 1501 denotes the location of the client 103 (or the server 102). # 01 to # 07 indicate the MFPs 104 in the order 1310 of FIG. The location of each MFP is clear from the figure. Also, by viewing this screen, the client 103 can determine which MFP 104 to output.
[0105]
<Description of device information>
When the cursor 1318 shown in FIG. 13, the cursor 1410 shown in FIG. 14, and the cursor 1510 shown in FIG. 15 point to a device in the respective window and are clicked, the information of each device is as shown in FIG. 16. Is displayed. Although a plurality of devices are displayed in FIG. 16, when one device is selected, one window related to the device is displayed. Here, the user can obtain detailed parameters and apparatus information that could not be displayed in the parameter display shown in FIG.
[0106]
Further, when the cursor is pointed at 1305 shown in FIG. 13, 1405 shown in FIG. 14, and 1505 shown in FIG. 15, the details of all (or a part of) devices are shown as shown in FIG. 16. Information can be displayed at once.
[0107]
<Description of status tab>
Next, when the status tab 1204 is clicked, the screen shown in FIG. 18 appears. Here, a sorting and selecting screen similar to that in FIG. 13 appears, and when, for example, a sorting order (More Favorite) is selected, the window transitions to FIG. In the window of FIG. 19, device names 1902 are displayed in the order of client preference, and respective statuses 1903 are displayed. At the same time, the user checks whether the status of each device is a paper jam or an error (1904), whether a serviceman call is made (1905), or whether the power is on (1906). can do. In addition to this, it is also possible to display detailed information such as displaying error details in detail or displaying the occurrence position of a jam.
[0108]
Next, when selecting working is selected, the window transitions to FIG. In the window of FIG. 22, only usable devices are selected and displayed.
[0109]
Similarly to the device tab, when the map is clicked, the window changes as shown in FIG. This window displays which devices can be used and where each device is installed. At this time, when the cursor 1907 shown in FIG. 19 and the cursor 2009 shown in FIG. 20 are clicked according to a certain device, the detailed information can be obtained as shown in FIG. In the window shown in FIG. 21, whether or not the device is usable is displayed, and if it is not usable, the reason why the device cannot be used (what kind of error has occurred) is displayed.
[0110]
<Description of queue tab>
Next, when the queue tab 1205 is clicked, a screen shown in FIG. 23 appears. Here, a sorting and selecting screen similar to FIG. 13 appears. Here, for example, when the sorting order (Nearer) is selected, the window transitions to FIG. In this window, the devices are ranked and displayed in order of position from the client 103 (or server 102). At this time, 2402 indicates a device name and 2403 indicates a device status. Reference numeral 2404 denotes the number of pages still in the queue waiting for RIP after a print request from the client. Reference numeral 2405 denotes the number of pages still in the queue waiting for printing although RIP has ended. Further, reference numeral 2406 denotes the number of pages waiting to be printed when printing directly with a device that does not have a buffer memory (usually provided in a hard disk) that holds a queue. Reference numeral 2407 represents an expected waiting time. If the expected waiting time is “0” (for example, London shown in FIG. 24), printing is possible immediately. If the user wants an output result immediately even if the installation position of the device is somewhat far away, the user may select a device with an expected waiting time of zero. Note that the map screen shown in FIG. 25 is displayed, so that the user can check where # 02: london in FIG. 24 exists.
[0111]
It is also possible to search the specific queue status of each device. That is, when the device to be confirmed shown in FIG. 24 or FIG. 25 is clicked or the information (Info.) Button at the bottom of the window is clicked, the window transitions to FIG. In this window, for each job in each device, the name of the client that sent the job, the number of pages in the RIP queue, the number of pages in the print queue, the number of pages in the direct queue, or the waiting time for each queue processing Etc. are displayed. Each client can predict in advance the order and waiting time of the transmitted jobs.
[0112]
<Description of the configuration tab>
Next, when the configuration tab 1206 is clicked, the screen shown in FIG. 27 appears. This screen shows the configuration tab, and the user can know the equipment information of each device. For example, when a selecting finisher is selected with the cursor 1208, the window transitions as shown in FIG. Here, 2802 indicates a device name, and 2803 to 2810 indicate whether various functions related to the finisher are possible for each device. For example, when it is desired to output in the booklet mode using the function of the saddle stitch 2808, the user can select # 02: shrimp.
[0113]
<Description of the setup tab>
Next, when the setup tab 1207 is clicked, the screen shown in FIG. 29 appears. This screen shows a setup tab, and the user can know the network setting information of each device. For example, if a selecting media type is selected with the cursor 1208, the window changes as shown in FIG. Here, 3002 indicates a device name, and 3003 to 3006 indicate whether various functions relating to the media type are possible. For example, the client 103 (or the server 102) has an Ethernet network card compatible with 100 Mbps, and in order to perform printing with faster communication, it is necessary to search for a device compatible with 100 Mbps on the network. . Here, the user can understand that it is only necessary to see item 3004 and select # 01: eagle and # 05: swan.
[0114]
<Network utility information acquisition operation>
FIG. 32 is a flowchart for the server 102 and the client 103b to obtain necessary information from each MFP 104 using MIB / SNMP.
[0115]
When the network utility software is activated on the server 102 or the client 103b, first, a message for obtaining a necessary MIB object value is broadcast (step S3201). Then, the MIB value is obtained from each device (step S3202).
[0116]
Next, it is determined whether or not each MIB value satisfies a certain condition. This determination is made when the selecting function is used. If the condition is, for example, a condition of a device having a speed of 30 PPM (Print Per Minute) or more, a message for inquiring about the print speed is transmitted in step S3201, and the print speed of the device from the device is acquired in step S3202. In step S3203, only devices having a print speed of 30 PPM or more are determined to be Yes. Devices that do not meet the conditions are not sorted and information about this device is not displayed. If the selecting function is not used, it is determined that the MIB values of all devices satisfy the condition.
[0117]
Next, the sort order is determined (step S3204). In the descending order according to the user's instruction, the devices are sorted in descending order (step S3205), and in the ascending order, the devices are sorted in ascending order (step S3206). In the sorting, devices are sorted based on the MIB value acquired in step S3202.
[0118]
It is determined whether all MIB values have been obtained (step S3207). If there are MIB values for devices that have not yet been obtained, the process returns to step S3202. When the MIB values of all the network devices are obtained, the display operation is started. It is determined whether or not all devices are to be displayed according to the settings determined in advance by the utility software (S3209). If not all, only a predetermined number of devices are displayed in sorted order. If all, all devices are displayed in sort order.
[0119]
<Create database on server>
As shown in FIG. 31, in the method in which a client broadcasts a message directly, if there are many clients, the network traffic becomes too large. Therefore, in FIG. 33, only the server 102 acquires information from each device, and manages the acquired information in a database.
[0120]
FIG. 33 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating a flow of information when the server 102 acquires information from the MFP 104 and the client 103 acquires information about the MFP 104 from the server 102. FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the operations of the server 102, the client 103, and the client 103.
[0121]
First, the server 102 broadcasts a message (C3301) for acquiring a necessary MIB object value (step S3401). Then, the MIB value (C3302) is obtained from each device, and the obtained MIB value is stored in the memory in the server (step S3402). Then, it is determined whether all MIB values have been obtained (step S3403).
[0122]
When MIB values are obtained from all devices, the MIB values stored in the memory in step S3402 are stored in the database in the server and managed (step S3405). Then, it is determined whether or not to end the database processing (step S3406). If not, the process waits for a fixed time to elapse (step S3407) and returns to step S3401. This is because the information of each device changes every moment, so that the contents of the database are regularly updated.
[0123]
On the other hand, the client 103 periodically acquires information from the database in the server according to the following flowchart. First, information about the device is acquired from the database of the server (step S3411). Specifically, a message (C3303) requesting desired information about the device is transmitted to the server. Then, the server 102 transmits a message (C3304) for transferring the requested information to the client 103.
[0124]
Next, it is determined whether or not each device information value satisfies a certain condition (step S3412). This determination is made when the selecting function is used. Devices that do not meet the conditions are not sorted and information about this device is not displayed. If the selecting function is not used, it is determined that the MIB values of all devices satisfy the condition. Next, the sort order is determined (step S3413). In the descending order according to the user's instruction, the devices are sorted in descending order (step S3414), and in the ascending order, the devices are sorted in ascending order (step S3415). The sorting is performed based on the device information value acquired in step S3411.
[0125]
It is determined whether all device information has been acquired (step S3416). If there is device information that has not been acquired, the process returns to step S3411. When all device information is obtained, the process proceeds to display processing (step S3416). The flowchart of the display process here is shown in FIG. Finally, it is determined whether the display of device information has been completed (step S3420). If not, the process waits for a certain period of time to elapse (step S3421) and returns to step S3411.
[0126]
FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the display process. It is determined whether or not all devices are to be displayed according to the settings determined in advance by the utility software (S3509). If not all, only a predetermined number of devices are displayed in the sorted order (step S3502). If it is all, all devices are displayed in the sort order (step S3503).
[0127]
<Other embodiments>
Even if the present invention is applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, interface device, reader, printer, etc.), a device (for example, a copier, a facsimile device, etc.) composed of a single device. You may apply to.
[0128]
Another object of the present invention is to supply a recording medium in which a program code of software realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded to a system or apparatus, and the computer (CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the recording medium in the recording medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.
[0129]
In this case, the program code itself read from the recording medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the recording medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0130]
As a recording medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.
[0131]
FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of a recording medium such as a CD-ROM. Reference numeral 3901 denotes an area for storing directory information, which indicates the position of an area 3902 for storing an installation program and an area for storing a network utility software program 3903. When the network utility software of the present invention is installed in the host computer shown in FIG. 38, the installation program stored in the area 3902 is first loaded into the system and executed by the CPU 3801. Next, the installation program executed by the CPU 3801 reads the network utility software program from the area 3903 and stores it in the hard disk 3811.
[0132]
When the present invention is applied to the recording medium, the recording medium stores program codes corresponding to the flowcharts described above.
[0133]
Further, it goes without saying that the present invention can also be applied to the case where the program is distributed via a communication line such as personal computer communication from a recording medium on which a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded. The object of the present invention is to have a program code of software that realizes various functions in the above-described embodiment be sent from a sending device 4004, for example, an HTTP server or an FTP server, as shown in FIG. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by the computer (or CPU, MPU) of the system or apparatus executing the program code.
[0134]
In this case, the program code itself sent from the sending device realizes the function in the above-described embodiment, and thus the sending device that sends the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0135]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0136]
Further, after the program code read from the recording medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0137]
【The invention's effect】
In such an embodiment as described above, information on all (or a part) MFP devices connected to the network is obtained, and the respective equipment information, apparatus status, network settings, job history, usage status, etc. Based on all kinds of information, it is possible to rearrange or narrow down the devices displayed in a list, and to provide information desired for the user in real time.
[0138]
In addition, since the user can immediately find an MFP device that matches his / her purpose of use, the user can smoothly manage the device without waste for the user or the entire network.
[0139]
As described above, according to the present invention, when a plurality of image forming apparatuses connected to the network are displayed in a list in accordance with the purpose of use of each user, the image forming apparatuses are in the desired order. Can be rearranged, or a desired image forming apparatus can be searched immediately. Furthermore, it is possible to provide equipment information, apparatus status, network setting status, job history, and usage status of a desired image forming apparatus in real time.
[0140]
Furthermore, by providing the user with various types of GUIs such as rankings, graphs, and maps, it is possible to improve the convenience for the user.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is an external view showing a configuration of a system in an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image forming apparatus.
FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a scanner unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of an image processing unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 5 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a FAX unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 6 is a block diagram illustrating configurations of a NIC unit and a PDL unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 7 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a core unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a PWM unit and pulse width modulation of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 9 is a side sectional view showing a structure of a printer unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 10 is a side sectional view showing a structure of a finisher unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a display unit of the image forming apparatus.
FIG. 12 is a diagram showing a device tab screen of utility software.
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a ranking screen 1 of utility software.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a graph screen of utility software.
FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a map screen 1 of utility software.
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a multi-window screen 1 of utility software.
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a screening screen 1 of utility software.
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a status tab screen of utility software.
FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a ranking screen 2 of utility software.
FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a map screen 2 of utility software.
FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a device information screen of utility software.
FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a screening screen 2 of utility software.
FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a cue tab screen of utility software.
FIG. 24 is a diagram showing a ranking screen 3 of utility software.
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a map screen 3 of utility software.
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a multi-window screen 2 of utility software.
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a configuration tab screen of utility software.
FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a ranking screen 4 of utility software.
FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a setup tab screen of utility software.
FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a ranking screen 5 of utility software.
FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating data transfer between a client and an image forming apparatus.
FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing the operation of the utility software.
FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating data transfer between a server, a client, and an image forming apparatus.
FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the operation of the utility software.
FIG. 35 is a flowchart of a display process.
FIG. 36 is a diagram illustrating an example of a network in which a router is used.
FIG. 37 is a diagram illustrating a state of data transfer by a packet.
FIG. 38 is a block diagram showing a control configuration of a server or a client.
FIG. 39 is a diagram illustrating an example of a memory map.
FIG. 40 is a diagram illustrating an example of a program supply method.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 LAN
102 servers
103a client
103b client
104a MFP
104b MFP
104c MFP

Claims (21)

A plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network, and an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that collects device information from the plurality of image processing apparatuses and manages them in a database, and includes a display unit,
An input means for inputting a display category and a display condition when displaying device information on the plurality of image processing apparatuses on a display unit;
Requesting means for requesting device information relating to the plurality of image processing devices managed by the database of the server device from the information processing device to the server device ;
When displaying device information related to the plurality of image processing apparatuses acquired as a response to the request by the request unit, according to the order of the plurality of image processing apparatuses attached based on the display condition input by the input unit Display control means for displaying device information side by side on the display unit,
The type of device information to be displayed for each display category is set,
The information processing apparatus, wherein the display control unit displays device information of a type to be displayed based on a display category input by the input unit.   2. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display control unit displays the device information by arranging a plurality of the image processing apparatuses so that the order assigned to the image processing apparatus is in descending order or ascending order. .   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the input unit receives the display condition by selecting one condition from a plurality of display conditions.   The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the device information is information related to the capability of the image processing apparatus.   The display control unit ranks the plurality of image processing devices based on a physical distance between the information processing device and the image processing device when proximity is input as a display condition by the input unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein device information is displayed.   The display control means, when a printing speed is input as a display condition by the input means, ranks the plurality of image processing apparatuses based on the printing speed of the image processing apparatus and displays device information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.   When the reliability is input as a display condition by the input unit, the display control unit ranks the plurality of image processing devices based on the number of paper jams occurring in the image processing device, and displays device information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the information processing apparatus is displayed.   When the reliability is input as a display condition by the input unit, the display control unit ranks the plurality of image processing devices based on the number of errors that have occurred in the image processing device, and displays device information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein:   The display control means, when a cheapness is input as a display condition by the input means, ranks the plurality of image processing apparatuses based on a printing cost in the image processing apparatus and displays device information. The information processing apparatus according to claim 1.   The display category includes a plurality of information among status information, queue information, configuration information, and setup information, and the type of device information to be displayed for each display category is set to be related to each information. The information processing apparatus according to any one of claims 1 to 9. An information processing method in an information processing apparatus that is communicable with a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network and a server apparatus that collects device information from the plurality of image processing apparatuses and manages the information in a database. ,
An input step for inputting a display category and a display condition when displaying device information on the plurality of image processing apparatuses on a display unit;
To the information processing apparatus and the server apparatus, a request step of requesting the device information on the plurality of image processing devices that are managed in the database of the server apparatus,
When displaying device information related to the plurality of image processing devices acquired as a response to the request in the requesting step, according to the order of the plurality of image processing devices attached based on the display condition input in the input step A display control step for displaying device information side by side on the display unit,
The type of device information to be displayed for each display category is set,
In the display control step, the device information of the type to be displayed is displayed based on the display category input in the input step.   12. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein, in the display control step, device information is displayed by arranging a plurality of the image processing devices so that a ranking given to the image processing devices is in descending order or ascending order. .   The information processing method according to claim 11 or 12, wherein, in the input step, the display condition is received by selecting one condition from a plurality of display conditions.   The information processing method according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein the device information is information related to a capability of the image processing apparatus.   In the display control step, when proximity is input as the display condition, a plurality of image processing devices are ranked based on a physical distance between the information processing device and the image processing device, and device information The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein:   In the display control step, when a printing speed is input as the display condition, the plurality of image processing apparatuses are ranked based on the printing speed of the image processing apparatus, and device information is displayed. The information processing method according to claim 11.   In the display control step, when reliability is input as the display condition, the plurality of image processing devices are ranked based on the reliability of the image processing device, and device information is displayed. The information processing method according to claim 11.   In the display control step, when a cheapness is input as a display condition by the input means, a plurality of image processing apparatuses are ranked based on a printing cost in the image processing apparatus, and device information is displayed. The information processing method according to claim 11, wherein:   A storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to claim 11. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with a plurality of image processing apparatuses connected to a network and including a display unit,
An input means for inputting a display category and a display condition when displaying device information on the plurality of image processing apparatuses on a display unit;
Request means for requesting device information relating to the plurality of image processing apparatuses to the plurality of image processing apparatuses;
Display control means for displaying device information on the display unit according to a display condition input by the input means when displaying device information regarding the plurality of image processing apparatuses acquired as a response to the request by the request means; Have
The type of device information to be displayed for each display category is set,
The information processing apparatus, wherein the display control unit displays device information of a type to be displayed based on a display category input by the input unit.   The storage medium which stored the program for functioning a computer as a means of Claim 20.

Images