JP2001268306A - Multi-function peripheral system - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a multi-function peripheral system with small memory capacity capable of realizing a MFP unnecessitating a storage device with high capacity. SOLUTION: This multi-function peripheral(MFP) system is constituted by connecting at least one multi-function peripheral 201 having an image input function such as a scanner and an image forming function such as a printer and a facsimile communicating function to a network. In this case, a program to be executed by the MFP 201 is stored in a file server 204, and a program corresponding to the function whose execution is requested is acquired from a file server 204, based on position information obtained by a retrieval server 205 connected to the network, and executed by the MFP 201.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a multifunction peripheral system connected to a network.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, a multi-function peripheral (hereinafter, referred to as an image input function such as a scanner) and an image forming function such as a printer and a facsimile communication function have been used.
MFP).

(Overall Configuration) FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a usage form of an MFP. As shown in the figure, the MFP 201 is connected to a computer network, in this case, a local area network (hereinafter, LAN) 203 and can be used by a host computer 202. In this figure, for the sake of simplicity, only one host computer and one MFP are shown, but a plurality of each may be connected on the same network.

(Configuration of MFP) FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of FIG. In the figure, 301
Is a CPU, 302 is a ROM, 303 is a RAM, 304 is a hard disk drive (HD), 305 is a video input I / F, 306 is a video output I / F, 307 is an image processing unit, 308 is a scanner, 309 is a printer, 310 Is a user interface (UI) having a display device such as a liquid crystal display and / or keys, etc., 311 is a FAX board for performing facsimile communication with an external communication device via a public line (hereinafter, PSTN), 313 is a network interface A card (hereinafter, NIC) 314 is a compression / expansion circuit (hereinafter, companding circuit), and 315 is a P which is an interface with an external host computer (PC) or the like.
A C I / F 316 is a cable for connecting an external PC to the PC I / F 315.

(Control Software) FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a structure of control software for controlling the control software 01. In the figure, reference numeral 401 denotes an application program of the MFP 201, which is a block in which a group of application programs such as copy, facsimile, scan, and print are located. Reference numeral 402 denotes an application program interface (hereinafter referred to as an API),
1 and an interface of the job control 403. The job control 403 is a block in which a group of programs for controlling jobs such as copying, facsimile, scanning, and printing is located. A device driver interface 404 is an interface between the job control 403 and the device driver 405. Device driver program 40
Reference numeral 5 denotes a block in which a program group for controlling devices included in the device group 413 is located. A device group 413 is controlled by a device driver program.

[0006] Device driver program block 40
5 includes a scanner driver 406 and a printer drive 4
07, image processing driver 408, fax driver 40
9, UI driver 410, host I / F driver 411
And a network (N / W) driver 412 are located,
Each of the devices is included in the device group 413.
Scanner 308, printer 309, image processing device 30
7, FAX board 311, UI310, PC I / F3
15 and the NIC 313, respectively.

(Copy Processing) FIG. 18 is a flowchart showing a copy processing operation of the MFP 201. UI31
0 and a copy operation is performed (step S50).
1), the scanner 308 scans a document placed on a document table or a document feeder and converts the document into electronic data (step S502). The electronic data (image data) is transferred to the RAM 30 via the image processing unit 307 and the video input I / F 305 in synchronization with the data transfer speed of the scanner 308.
3 is written. While the image data is written,
Video output I / F 30 read from RAM 303
6. The data is transmitted to the printer 309 via the image processing unit 307 in synchronization with the print speed. The printer 309 performs print processing based on the received image data (step S503), and the copy processing ends.

(Scan Processing) FIG.
6 is a flowchart showing a copy processing operation of the embodiment. 316
When a scan command is received from an external PC (not shown) connected to the PC IF 315 via a PC cable (step S601), the scanner 308 scans a document placed on a document table or a document feeder and converts the document into electronic data. (Step S602). The electronic data (image data) is supplied to the image processing unit 307, the video input I / F3
The data is written in the RAM 303 in synchronization with the data transfer speed of the scanner 308 via the CPU 05 (step S60).
3). Next, the image data is read from the RAM 303 and compressed by the companding circuit 314 (step S604).
This is stored in D304 (step S605).

If there are a plurality of documents placed on the feeder of the scanner 308, the document is scanned (step S60).
2) The processing from the HD capture (step S605) is repeated for each page. HD30 data for all pages
4 (step S606), the HD 304
From the PC I / F 315 and P
The scan command is transferred to the external PC (not shown) that has issued the scan command via the C cable 316 (step S607), and the scan process ends.

(Network Print Processing) FIG.
5 is a flowchart illustrating a network print processing operation of the MFP 201. When a print command (PDL data) is received from the external PC (not shown) connected to the LAN 203 via the LAN 203 and the NIC 313 (step S701), the PDL data is transmitted to the HD 30.
4 (step S702). It is checked whether the reception of the PDL data has been completed and all the received PDL data has been taken into the HD 304 (step S70).
3) When the operation is completed, the CPU 301 and the RAM 303
The L data is developed (step S704).

The expanded PDL data is converted into a companding circuit 314.
(Step S705), and stores it in the HD 304 (step S706). It is confirmed whether or not all pages of the PDL data for which printing has been instructed have been stored in the HD 304 (step S707).
4, and then decompressed by the companding circuit 314 (step S708). The expanded data is stored in RA
The data is written in M303 (step S709), and is output via the video output I / F 306 and the image
The output is synchronized with the print speed 09. Printer 30
In step 9, the print processing is performed based on the decompressed data (step S 710). When printing of all pages is completed (step S 711), the network print processing ends.

(Fax Memory Transmission Processing) FIG.
15 is a flowchart illustrating a fax memory transmission processing operation of P201. When a fax transmission operation is performed on the UI 301 (step S801), the scanner 308 scans a document placed on a document table or a document feeder and converts the document into electronic data (step S802). The electronic data (image data) is supplied to an image processing unit 307, a video input I /
The data is written into the RAM 303 in synchronization with the data transfer speed of the scanner 308 via F305 (step S8).
03). The original data in the RAM 303 is compressed by the companding circuit 314 (step S804) and stored in the HD 304 (step S805).

If there are a plurality of documents placed on the feeder of the scanner 308, the document is scanned (step S80).
2) The processing from the HD capture (step S805) is repeated for each page. HD30 data for all pages
4 (step S806), the HD 304
Compressed image data is extracted from the
And then supplies it to the Fax board 311. F
The ax board 311 performs facsimile transmission processing based on the data, and outputs facsimile data to the PSTN 312 (step S807).

(Fax Memory Reception Processing) FIG.
3 shows a flow of a memory reception process of x. PSTN3
When the fax board 311 starts receiving facsimile data from an external fax (not shown) via the FAX 12 (step S901), the fax board 311 stores the received data in the HD 304 (step S902).

When all of the received data is taken into the HD 304 (step S903), the received data is read from the HD 304, and the facsimile-coded data is expanded by the companding circuit 314 (step S904).
3 (step S905). And RAM3
03 to the video output I / F3
In step S906, the data is output to the printer 309 in synchronization with the print speed of the printer 309 via the image processing unit 06 and the image processing unit 307 (step S906), and the fax reception process ends.

[0016]

In such an MFP, it is possible to flexibly cope with a change or addition of a function by changing or adding software, but no consideration is given to the usage status of each user such as the frequency of use of a program. As a result, it has not been possible to determine whether an optimal system is provided for each user.

In addition, when a program is to be upgraded or added, in a conventional configuration, a service person must use an MF.
It is necessary to replace the ROM 302 on the controller board of the P main body or to download the program to the HD 304, which is troublesome.

As the number of functions increases, the size of system programs such as the applications, job control programs, and device driver programs shown in FIG. 17 increases, and the capacity of the ROM 302 for storing these programs increases. In addition, even if the user does not use the function using data storage, the HD 304 is indispensable, and there is a problem that the cost is considerably high.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of such problems of the related art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a multifunction peripheral system capable of grasping a program use situation of each user.

It is another object of the present invention to provide a multi-function peripheral system capable of realizing an MFP capable of easily updating a program.

Still another object of the present invention is to provide a multifunction peripheral system capable of realizing an MFP having a small memory capacity.

[0022]

That is, the gist of the present invention is to provide at least one multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function. A multi-function peripheral system connected above, wherein the MFP acquires and executes a program corresponding to the function requested to be executed from another device connected to the network. Exists in the peripheral system.

Another gist of the present invention is to connect at least one multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner and an image forming function and a facsimile communication function such as a printer on a network. File server means connected to a network, storing a program to be executed by the MFP, and sending a program corresponding to the request from the MFP to the MFP that has issued the request; and a connection to the network. Search server means for managing the storage location of the program for each type of MFP and responding to the inquiry from the MFP with the storage location of the program usable in the MFP that has made the inquiry. Characteristic multi-function perif It resides in the Lal system.

Another gist of the present invention is to connect at least one multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner and an image forming function and a facsimile communication function such as a printer on a network. A multifunction peripheral system, wherein the MFP presents available functions to the user, and, among the available functions, transmits a program corresponding to the selected function to another device connected to the network. From a multi-function peripheral system.

Another gist of the present invention is to connect at least one multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner and an image forming function and a facsimile communication function such as a printer on a network. A multi-function peripheral system comprising: an MFP that acquires a program required for a request from another device connected to a network in response to a request from another device connected to the network; It resides in the characteristic multifunction peripheral system.

Another aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a control program for a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function. The present invention resides in a storage medium having a program code for acquiring and executing a program corresponding to a function requested to be executed from another device connected on a network.

Another aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a control program for a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function. A program for presenting an available function to a user, and a program for acquiring a program corresponding to a selected function from among available functions from another device connected to the network. Storage media.

Another aspect of the present invention is a storage medium storing a control program for a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function. A storage medium characterized by having a program for acquiring a program necessary for the request from another device connected to the network in response to a request from another device connected to the network.

[0029]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS (First Embodiment) The present invention will be described below in detail based on a preferred embodiment. FIG.
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an overall configuration of a multifunction system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

In the figure, 200 is an MFP, 202 is a host computer, 203 is a local area network (LAN), 204 is a file server, and the MFP 20
The application server manages access to files stored in a storage device included in the file server 204, such as application programs of No. 0, job control programs, and system programs such as device driver programs. As the storage device of the server 204, a rewritable device having a large capacity, such as an HD or a DVD-RAM, is preferable.

Reference numeral 205 denotes a search server, which is a file server 2
04 stores the storage information of the system program file of the MFP 200 and responds to the collation of the storage destination of the system program file requested by the MFP 200.

The MFP 200 has the MF shown in FIG.
Since it has the same configuration as P201, its description is omitted. Further, in the following description, when showing the internal configuration of the MFP 200, the description will be made using the same reference numerals as those of the MFP 201.

(Program Registration Operation) FIG. 2 shows a program registration operation in the system of the present invention. This case shows a case of a copy application program. First, in the host computer 202, M
When a copy application program file operable on the FP 200 is created, the file is transferred to the file server 204 via the LAN 203.

The file server 204 stores the copy application program file transmitted from the host computer 202 in a storage device. Further, the host computer 202 notifies the search server 205 of the storage location information of the copy application program file transferred to the file server 204.

Such a registration operation is performed by HTTP (Hypertext).
Transfer Protocol), HT
According to the format of the URL used in the TP, for example, the address of the file server 204 is “www.copy_appli.canon.co.
"jp", the path indicating the storage location of the copy application program file inside the storage device of the file server 204 is "pmfp / japan /", and the program file name "index.html" is stored in the search server 205.

In this embodiment, the path “pmfp / japan /” indicating the storage location also serves as the identifier of the MFP on which the program file can operate, “pmfp” is the device type (DeviceType), and “Japan” is the country. Code means Country. The search server 205 efficiently stores the program file storage destination information notified from the host computer 202 using the contents of the path,
It operates to respond to the inquiry about the program file storage location requested from 00 or the like.

(Program File Search Process) FIG.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an operation in the case where the MFP searches for a program file stored in a storage device of a file server connected to a network in the present embodiment.

When the storage location of a program file operable on the MFP 200 is not known, such as when the power of the MFP 200 is turned on or in an initialized state, a packet for inquiring about the storage location of the program file is transmitted over the LAN 203. This packet includes a device identifier of a transmission source, and is transmitted as an unspecified destination packet by a broadcast or multicast method.

The packet transmitted from MFP 200 is
The MFP 200 receives the request based on the device identifier of the transmission source received by the search server 204 connected on the network and included in the packet and the program file storage destination information stored in the search server 205 described in FIG. A query is made for the storage location of the program file being executed, and the result is notified to the MFP 200 via the LAN 203.

In FIG. 3, MFP 200 transmits a packet containing DeviceType: = pmfp, Country: = Japan as a device identifier on LAN 203, and search server 205 retrieves a program file matching the device identifiers pmfp and Japan. When the search finds matching data, an address (URL) data (index file) indicating the storage location of the program file is stored in the MFP 2.
00 is transmitted.

(Acquisition and Execution Process of Program File) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an operation when the MFP 200 acquires a program usable by the MFP 200 from the file server 204 connected to the LAN 203 and executes the program. is there.

In the storage device of the file server 204,
A program file operable on the MFP 200 is stored, and the procedure described with reference to FIG.
By operating from the UI 311 (FIG. 16) connected to the P200, information on the storage location of the program file is obtained,
Based on the program file storage location information, a packet for requesting acquisition of a program file is sent to the file server 204.

In this embodiment, an acquisition request packet is transmitted according to HTTP. For example, “http://www.copy_appli.canon.co.jp/pmfp/japan/ind” in the request packet
ex.html ”, the file server 20
4 and the storage location of the program file in the storage device.

In the file server 204, the MFP 200
The storage device transmits a program file (index.html in the example) according to the content of the acquisition request packet received from the storage device.

In the MFP 200, the file server 204
The transferred program file is translated by a CPU 301 in the MFP 200 and a program file interpreter stored in the ROM 302 or the like and executed.

In this embodiment, the file server 20
It is assumed that the program file obtained from No. 4 is described according to the HTML format as shown in FIG. The program file (Index.html) shown in FIG.
0 is a program for controlling a menu displayed on the MFP 200. Specifically, the “Account”, “Job Control”
ol ”and“ Service Maintenance ”are displayed.

A program file can be associated (linked) with another program file. For example, by storing the storage location information of a subprogram in a program file, the Control to acquire a program according to the storage location information.

In FIG. 5, "Job Cont" displayed on the operation unit
rol ”, the program file“ index.h
"http: //www.copy-a" which is the link destination described in "tml"
Get ppli.co.jp/pmfp/jp/jobcontrol/jobctl.html ”and save the program described in this link to“ ht
tp: //applets.copy-appli.canon.com/pmfp/jobctl/clas
An example in which the final control program “jobctl101” is executed from “ses” and the program name “jobctl101” is shown.

(Server File) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing types of files stored in the file server 204 and an example of the configuration thereof in the present embodiment. The structure of the file is
It is managed by the search server 205.

Reference numeral 1501 denotes a shared file having a group of files that can be shared and used on a network. 1505, 15
Reference numeral 09 denotes a file group that can be shared and used within a specific group of users registered in advance, and is managed by the user's login ID number.

Reference numerals 1513 and 1517 denote unique file groups that can be used individually by the user, and are managed by login ID numbers. Shared file 1501, group files 1505 and 1509, personal file 151
Reference numerals 3 and 1517 each include an application program file group, a device driver program file group, and a database file group.

Since the files are managed in such a configuration, when the user inputs the ID number at the time of login,
It becomes possible to access the shared file, group file, and personal file group corresponding to the login ID number.

(Processing at MFP Startup (FAX Reception)) FIG. 7
The MF in this embodiment is described using the flowchart shown in FIG. 9 and the example of the user interface shown in FIGS.
The startup process of P200 will be described. In the present embodiment, a description will be given of a process when a fax is received after the power is turned on.

After the power is turned on, first, as shown in FIG.
01, only function buttons are displayed. In the figure, 1
701 is a copy function, 1702 is a FAX function, 1703
Denotes a SCAN function, and 1704 denotes a button indicating an optional function. When the display of the UI 301 ends, the reception from the communication line (PSTN 312) (that is, another MF)
P enters a state of waiting for an incoming call from the facsimile machine (step S1101).

Here, when there is an incoming call from the communication line, M
From the FP 200, communication functions and device IDs of the printer 309, image processing 307, FAX board 311, UI 310 and the like connected to the MFP 200, and accessories such as a feeder connected to the scanner 308 and a finisher connected to the printer 309 are provided. A packet inquiring about the storage location of the program file corresponding to the ID is transmitted to the LAN 203 (step S1102).

The search server 205 receives this packet, checks the storage location of the file that can be used by the MFP 200, and notifies the MFP 200 of the result (step S1).
103). The MFP 200 sends a packet for requesting acquisition of a program file to the file server 204 based on the storage location information of the file notified from the search server 205.

In the file server 204, the MFP 200
Sends a program file from the storage device according to the content of the acquisition request packet received from the storage device. MFP 20
0 receives the program file sent from the file server 204,
The facsimile data reception is started by performing translation processing and execution by a program interpreter (realized as software by the PU 301) (step S).
1104).

In this case, in the initial screen shown in FIG.
A UI similar to the state where the FAX function button is selected is displayed as shown in FIG. In addition to FAX reception from a communication line, reception from the LAN 203, PC I / F3
Similarly, when the MFP 200 passively starts operating in response to an external reception or request, such as a request from an external PC via the MFP 15, the same operation is performed.

The UI 310 displayed when the power is turned on.
The files necessary for the display of FIG. 8 may be built in the MFP, or may be obtained from the server during the startup process.

(Second Embodiment) FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing the startup operation of the MFP according to the second embodiment of the present invention. In the present embodiment, the system configuration is the same as that of the first embodiment, and a description thereof will be omitted.

When the power of the MFP 200 is turned on, the MFP 200 waits for a login (step S1001). In the login waiting state, for example, a screen of an ID No. input waiting state is displayed as in a UI 310 shown in FIG. 11, and the user inputs a pre-assigned login ID number using the 10 keys provided on the right side of the UI 310. And, for example, STAR
The user logs in to the MFP by pressing the T key.

When the login ID is input, the MFP 20
From 0, a packet inquiring about the storage location of the program file is sent to the LAN 203 together with the login ID number.

The search server 205 receives this packet, confirms the ID No., confirms a shared file group, a group file group, and a personal file group that can use the input ID No., and can use the ID. The storage location of the function file is collated, and the result is notified to MFP 200 (step S1002).

MFP 200 transmits a packet for requesting acquisition of a program file to file server 204 based on the storage location information of the file. The file server 204 sends out the program file from the storage device according to the content of the acquisition request packet received from the MFP 200.

The MFP 200 translates and executes the program file sent from the file server 204 by using a program interpreter inside the MFP 200 (step S1003).

In this case, a list of functions usable with the login ID number is displayed on the UI 301 as function buttons 1701 to 1704 as shown in FIG. As mentioned above,
1701 is a copy function, 1702 is a FAX function, 170
3 indicates an SCAN function, and 1704 indicates an optional function. Here, an input standby state for the UI 301 is set (step S1004).

When any of the function buttons 1701 to 1704 is pressed, the pressed function button and the scanner 308, printer 309, image processing 307, FAX board 311, UI 310, etc. connected to the MFP 200 are pressed. A packet for inquiring the storage location of the program file corresponding to the device ID of the accessory and the ID of an accessory such as a feeder connected to the scanner 308 or a finisher connected to the printer 309 is sent to the LAN 203 (step S1005).

The search server 205 receives this packet, checks the storage location of a file that can be used by the MFP 200, and notifies the MFP 200 of the result (step S1).
006). MFP 200 sends a packet for requesting acquisition of a program file to file server 204 based on the storage location information of the file.

In the file server 204, the MFP 200
Sends a program file from the storage device according to the content of the acquisition request packet received from the storage device. MFP 20
No. 0 translates and executes the program file sent from the file server 204 by the program interpreter inside the MFP 200 (step S1007).

As a result, the function selected by the function button is displayed on the UI 301 as shown in FIGS. FIG. 9 shows an example of a UI displayed in response to pressing of the FAX button 1702 in FIG.

Reference numeral 1901 denotes a button for viewing a facsimile address book. When this button is pressed, a database address of a shared file usable by the login ID No., a database of a file of a group to be shared, an individual It becomes possible to see the registered address in the database of the registration file.

Other buttons necessary for functioning as a facsimile (and a login I / O) such as a button for performing a reading setting of a scanner and a button for performing a setting for facsimile transmission.
A function button (available at D No.) is displayed, but the description of each button is omitted. Also, in FIG.
FIG. 9 illustrates an example of a UI displayed in response to a pressing of a copy button 1701 in FIG.

Incidentally, from the state of the UI 310 shown in FIG.
9 and 12 may be obtained from the server 204 at the time when the user presses the function button in FIG. 8, or if all the function buttons are pressed in advance. In such a case, the storage location of the file to be acquired may be acquired, and the file may be acquired immediately when the function button is pressed.

(Third Embodiment) In the first and second embodiments, the usage status of each user is not considered at all, but in the present embodiment, the file used by the user in the past is It is characterized in that the frequency is measured and used for charging and providing an optimal program file for each user.

FIG. 13 is a flowchart showing a process in the management server 205 for counting the system files used by the user. First, the UI 310 shown in FIG.
In, it waits for the user to select a function button (step S1501). When the user selects the function button, it is determined whether the file accessed according to the selected function is an access to a file included in the shared file group (step S1502).

If the access is to a shared file, 1 is added to the number of accesses 1 (L) up to the previous time, and
The number of times of access to the shared file is set (step S15
03).

If it is determined in step S1502 that the access is not to access a shared file, Gr1
It is checked whether the file included in the group file group is accessed (step S1504). If the access is to the Gr1 group file, 1 is added to the previous access number m to obtain the number of accesses to the Gr1 group file (step S1505).

If it is determined in step S1504 that the access is not to the Gr1 group file, it is confirmed whether the access is to a file included in the group file group of Gr2 (step S1506).

If the access is to the Gr2 group file, 1 is added to the previous access number n to obtain the number of accesses to the Gr2 group file (step S1507).

Further, in step S1506, G
If it is determined that the access is not the access to the group file of r2, it is confirmed whether the access is to the files included in the personal file group of the individual 1 (step S150).
8).

If the access is to the personal file of the individual 1, 1 is added to the previous access number 0, and the number of accesses to the personal file of the individual 1 is set (step S 1509).

If it is determined in step S1508 that the access is not to the personal file of the individual 1, since the access is to the personal file of the individual 2, 1 is added to the number of accesses p up to now. , The number of accesses to the personal file of the individual 2 (step S15
10).

In this way, by counting the number of accesses to each file group, it is possible to charge the user for use of a specific file group or to provide a program file in consideration of the user's use situation. Becomes possible. In the present embodiment, the number of times of access to a file is measured in the file server.
It is also possible to measure in the FP or the search server.

Specifically, among the copy functions, the frequency of use of the image editing function is low among the two-sided copy, enlargement / reduction function, multiple page layout function, and image editing function (black and white reversal, mirror image, deformation, etc.). In this case, it is possible to provide a copy function without an image editing function.

As described above, by providing only the programs necessary for the functions frequently used by the user,
It is possible to reduce the capacity of the storage device such as the memory and the HD required on the P side, and it is also possible to omit the HD 304 itself if the user does not frequently use the function using the data storage. .

(Fourth Embodiment) By adopting a configuration in which a system program is obtained from a server, all MFs that use the program can be updated only by constantly updating the program stored in the server to the latest one.
P can use the latest system program. This embodiment uses a program acquisition from a server to execute M
It is characterized in that the FP program is updated.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart showing a program update processing operation of the MFP. For example, the MFP 200
Is executed in a state where the power is turned on or at predetermined time intervals. First, a list of functions that can be used with the user's login ID number that has been input at the time of login is displayed on the UI 301 as shown in FIG. In the UI 310,
1701 is a copy function, 1702 is a FAX function, 170
3 indicates an SCAN function, and 1704 indicates an optional function.

When any one of the function buttons 1701 to 1704 is pressed (step S1401),
An application program file corresponding to the function button from the MFP 200, a job control program file corresponding to the function button, and a packet for inquiring the storage location of the device driver program file, and an application program or job control program file already corresponding to the function button; If there is a device driver program file, the packet of the Revision No. of the file and the scanner 308, printer 309, image processing 30 connected to the MFP 200
7. Device ID of FAX board 311, UI 310, etc.
A packet of the ID No. of an accessory such as a feeder connected to the scanner 308 or a finisher connected to the printer 309 is transmitted to the LAN 203 (step S1402).

When the search server 205 receives this packet and already has an application program file corresponding to the function button in the MFP 200, it checks the Revision No. of the file (step S14).
03), if the file is not the latest file, the storage location of the latest file that can be used by MFP 200 is checked, and the result is compared
00 (step S1404).

If the job control program file corresponding to the function button already exists in MFP 200, the process proceeds to the confirmation of the revision number of the file (step S14).
05), if it is not the latest file, the storage location of the latest file that can be used in MFP 200 is collated, and the result is compared with MFP 2
00 (step S1406).

If a device driver program file corresponding to the function button already exists in the MFP 200, the file revision No. is checked in order to check whether the file is optimal for the device and the accessory.
(Step S1407). If the file is not the optimal file, the storage location of the optimal file usable by the MFP 200 is collated, and the result is notified to the MFP 200 (step S1408).

The MFP 200 sends a packet for requesting acquisition of the program file to the file server 204 based on the storage location information of the file (step S1409).

In the file server 204, the MFP 200
Sends a program file from the storage device in accordance with the content of the acquisition request packet
Translates and executes the program file sent from the file server 204 by the program interpreter inside the MFP 200 (step S1410).

As described above, the version information of the program already existing in the MFP is transmitted, and whether or not the latest version (or optimal version) is checked by the search server. Is notified of the storage location of the latest (optimal) program file that can be used, the program used in the MFP is automatically updated, and the latest (or optimal) program is always available.

[0095]

Other Embodiments In the present invention, acquisition of a system program from a file server has been described. However, a file server can be used for firmware of a device such as a printer or a scanner.

It is also possible to customize the functions of the operation unit and the MFP and register them in the file server.

The present invention can be applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), but can be applied to a single device (for example, a copier, a facsimile). Device).

Further, an object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium (or a recording medium) recording software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or an apparatus, and to provide a computer (a computer) of the system or the apparatus. It is needless to say that the present invention can also be achieved by a CPU or an MPU) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium. In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium implements the functions of the above-described embodiment, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention. Also,
When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also the operating system (OS) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program code.
It goes without saying that a case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are implemented by performing some or all of the actual processing, and the processing performs the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion card inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the program code is read based on the instruction of the program code. Needless to say, the CPU included in the function expansion card or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

When the present invention is applied to the above-mentioned storage medium, the storage medium has been described previously (FIGS. 7, 10 and 1).
3, a program code corresponding to the flowchart shown in FIG. 14 is stored.

[0101]

As described above, in a multifunction peripheral system, system programs such as applications, job control programs, and device driver programs are concentrated on a file server on a network and can be used for each MFP (login user). Since a management server for managing the storage location of the system program file is provided and the program is acquired from the server when used, the memory capacity required for the MFP can be reduced.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an overall configuration of a multifunction peripheral system according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an application program registration process in the multifunction peripheral system according to the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an application storage location search process in the multifunction peripheral system according to the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an application acquisition and execution process in the multifunction peripheral system according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a program acquisition operation based on a system program and its link information.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a file format in a file server of the multifunction peripheral system according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of processing after power-on of the multifunction peripheral system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating an example of an initial state of a user interface of the multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface displayed after a FAX function button is pressed in FIG. 8;

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating another example of processing after power-on of the multifunction peripheral system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user's login ID input state in the user interface of the multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface displayed after a copy function button is pressed in FIG. 8;

FIG. 13 is a flowchart illustrating a file use frequency measurement process in the multifunction peripheral system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating a program update process in the multifunction peripheral system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing the overall configuration of a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 16 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a program configuration in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 18 is a flowchart illustrating a copy processing operation in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 19 is a flowchart illustrating a scan processing operation in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 20 is a flowchart illustrating a network print processing operation in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating a facsimile transmission processing operation in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

FIG. 22 is a flowchart illustrating a facsimile reception processing operation in a conventional multifunction peripheral system.

Claims (19)

[Claims] 1. A multi-function peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function.
At least one multifunction peripheral system connected to a network, wherein the MFP acquires and executes a program corresponding to a function requested to be executed from another device connected to the network. Multi-function peripheral system characterized by the following. 2. A multi-function peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function.
At least one multifunction peripheral system connected to a network, wherein the multifunction peripheral system is connected to the network, stores a program executed by the MFP, and makes a request corresponding to a request from the MFP. File server means for sending to the MFP, connected to the network, and for each type of MFP,
Manages the storage location of the program,
A multifunction peripheral system comprising: a search server unit that responds to a query from the FP with a storage location of a program usable in the MFP that has made the query. 3. The MFP transmits data indicating the last update of a program and / or hardware of the MFP at the time of the inquiry, and the search server unit determines that the data indicating the last update is latest or optimal. The multi-function peripheral system according to claim 1, wherein when different from the program, the MFP is notified of the latest or optimal storage location of the program. 4. The MFP according to claim 1, wherein the MFP performs the inquiry and / or the request in a state of starting, initializing, or receiving an instruction from a user.
The multi-function peripheral system according to 1. 5. A host computer connected to the network, which generates a program to be executed by the MFP, stores the program in the file server means, and supplies information on a storage location in the file server means to the search server means. The multifunction peripheral system according to claim 1, further comprising a unit. 6. The multi-function according to claim 1, wherein the program includes one of an application of the MFP, a job control program, a device driver program, and a firmware program. Peripheral system. 7. The file server means includes: a shared file group which is a file which can use the program on the network; a group file group which has a file which can be shared and used within a specific user group registered in advance; The registered files are classified and stored in a personal file group having a unique file that can be used by an individual user, and the search server means manages access to the shared file group, the group file group, and the personal file group for each user. The multifunction peripheral system according to any one of claims 2 to 6, wherein: 8. The multi-function peripheral system according to claim 7, wherein said search server means measures the number of times of access to said shared file group, said group file group, and said personal file group for each user. . 9. A multi-function peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function.
At least one multifunction peripheral system connected on a network, wherein the MFP presents an available function to a user, and a program corresponding to a selected function among the available functions. A multifunction peripheral system, which is obtained from another device connected to the network. 10. A multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function.
A multifunction peripheral system comprising at least one connected to a network, wherein the MFP responds to a request from another device connected to the network, and stores a program required for the request. A multifunction peripheral system obtained from another device connected to a network. 11. The M connected to the network,
File server means for storing a program to be executed by the FP; and search server means connected to the network for managing a storage location of the program, wherein the MFP stores a desired program from the search server means 11. The multifunction peripheral system according to claim 9, wherein the desired program is acquired from the file server means using the storage location. 12. 12. When the MFP obtains a storage location of a desired program from the search server unit, the MFP transmits data indicating the last update of a program and / or hardware of the MFP, and the search server unit 12. The multifunction peripheral according to claim 11, wherein when the data indicating the last update is different from that of the latest or optimal program, the storage location of the latest or optimal program is notified to the MFP. system. 13. The multifunction peripheral system according to claim 11, wherein said search server manages a storage location of said desired program for each user of said MFP. 14. The file server means includes: a shared file group which is a file which can use the program on the network; a group file group which has a file which can be shared and used within a specific user group registered in advance; Classified and stored in a personal file group having a unique file that can be used by a registered user individually, and the search server means manages access to the shared file, the group file group, and the personal file group for each user. The multifunction peripheral system according to any one of claims 11 to 13, wherein: 15. The multi-function peripheral system according to claim 14, wherein said search server means measures the number of accesses to said shared file group, said group file group, and said personal file group for each user. . 16. The multi-function according to claim 8, wherein the program includes one of an application of the MFP, a job control program, a device driver program, and a firmware program. Peripheral system. 17. A storage medium storing a control program of a multi-function peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function, and a function requested to be executed. A storage medium having a program code for acquiring and executing a program corresponding to the above from another device connected to the network. 18. A storage medium storing a control program of a multi-function peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function, and a usable function for a user And a program for acquiring a program corresponding to a selected function from the available functions from another device connected to the network. 19. A storage medium storing a control program of a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having an image input function such as a scanner, an image forming function such as a printer, and a facsimile communication function, and being connected to the network. And a program for acquiring a program necessary for the request from another device connected to the network in response to a request from the other device.