JP2006041972A - Image processor, display control method, storage medium stored with computer-readable program, and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To arrange a function explanation display environment with superior convenience and cost performance for freely facilitating countermeasures to a function explanation request from a user, by only securing the minimum storage space for function information. <P>SOLUTION: In the image processor 200, capable of making a communication with a server device 240 for storing function information to explain the function of an image forming apparatus to which various option devices can be connected, a controller unit 2000 discriminates whether it is possible to acquire the function information based on function configurations to be acquired, by investigating the function configurations of an image processor body to be extended by the various option devices, and acquires the function information from the server device 240, and makes a display part display the function information, when it is discriminated that the function information can be acquired, and acquires the function information from a database already downloaded from the server device, and makes the display part display the function information in the other case. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing apparatus, a display control method, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program that can communicate with a server apparatus that stores functional information that describes functions of the image processing apparatus to which various optional devices can be connected. And programs.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in this type of digital multi-function peripheral, various options such as an automatic document feeder (hereinafter referred to as ADF) are connected to a scanner, and a finisher and a staple sorter are connectable to a printer.

  In addition to the above, there are various options such as a FAX board required for FAX transmission / reception for realizing a composite function and a PDL board for RIP of PDL images. For example, the help information corresponding to the option at the time of error occurrence is selectively displayed only within the limited memory of the device.

  On the other hand, electronic information that can be searched with the identification symbol is added to the product incidental information including essential information by integrating information parts such as memory or identification symbol into the product, and an identification symbol is attached to the product incidental information for a large amount of information. A filed information is formed, stored in advance in a storage means that can be easily accessed, and a display device and an operation means are provided to bridge between the information recording parts or identification symbols and the accessible storage means. Patent Document 1 below discloses a configuration in which product-accompanying information is read out to a handheld device directly from a product, via an auxiliary memory, or from a storage means in an external storage server via a communication line.

However, if information is stored on the server, there is a possibility that connection is not possible, and there is no mention of what to do at that time.
JP 2000-276534 A

  However, the options have become diverse, and it has become impossible to display sufficient information using only the memory inside the device.

  There has been a problem that the operation instruction cannot be supported accurately and easily for the user, and the functions of the digital multi-function peripheral cannot be used to the maximum extent.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to communicate with a server device that stores functional information that describes the functions of an image processing device to which various optional devices can be connected. In the image processing apparatus, based on the functional configuration obtained by investigating the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus main body that is expanded by various optional devices, it is determined whether or not the function information can be requested, and the requestable state If it is determined that the function information is acquired from the server device, the function information is acquired from the database that has already been downloaded from the server device. In order to explain the function even when various optional devices are connected to the main body of the image processing apparatus and the functions are expanded, By acquiring function information that describes necessary functions in a timely manner and storing it in a database without storing the function information in advance, the function description from the user is ensured by securing a minimum storage space for the function information. It is an object to provide an image processing apparatus and display control method capable of providing a function explanation display environment excellent in convenience and economy that can freely meet demands, and a storage medium and program storing a computer-readable program.

  The image processing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that stores function information for explaining functions of an image processing apparatus to which various option devices can be connected, and has a functional configuration of an image processing apparatus main body extended by various option devices. An investigation means for investigating, an acquisition means for obtaining functional information for explaining a functional configuration from the server device based on a functional configuration investigated by the investigation means, and a functional information obtained by the acquisition means And when determining that the function information can be requested to the server device, and when determining that the request can be made by the determination means The function information is acquired from the server device by the acquiring means and displayed on the display unit, and the requesting state is not possible by the determining means. If it is determined it is characterized by having a display control means for displaying on the display unit obtains from the function information the database.

  The display control method of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  A display control method in an image processing apparatus that can communicate with a server apparatus that stores functional information that describes functions of an image processing apparatus that can be connected to various optional apparatuses, and is an image processing apparatus main body that is extended by various optional apparatuses A step of investigating the functional configuration of the server, an acquisition step of acquiring functional information for explaining the functional configuration from the server device based on the functional configuration investigated by the investigating step, and the acquisition step. A registration step for registering function information in a database; a determination step for determining whether the server device can request acquisition of the function information at the time of requesting acquisition of the function information; and a requestable state by the determination step If it is determined that the function information is obtained from the server device by the obtaining step, Obtained to be displayed on the display unit, wherein the determination if it is determined that the request disabled state in step characterized in that it has a display control step of displaying on the display unit acquires the function information from the database.

  According to the present invention, even when various optional devices are connected to the main body of the image processing apparatus and the functions are expanded, functions necessary for timely explanation can be obtained without storing functional information for explaining functions in advance. By acquiring the function information to be explained and creating a database, it is a highly convenient and economical function that can respond freely to user's function explanation requests simply by securing the storage space for the minimum function information. There is an effect that the explanation display environment can be improved.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Description of system configuration>
FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing an example of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied.

  In FIG. 1, an image forming apparatus 200 includes a scanner unit 2070 as an image input device, a printer unit 2095 as an image output device, a Controller Unit 2000, and an operation unit 2012 as a user interface. The scanner unit 2070, the printer unit 2095, and the operation unit 2012 are respectively connected to the Controller Unit 2000, and the Controller Unit 2000 is connected to a network transmission unit such as a LAN 2011 and a public line.

  From the public line, data transmission / reception by facsimile according to G3 and G4 standards including color image transmission is possible. In addition, other image forming apparatuses 220 and 230 having the same device configuration as the image forming apparatus 200 are connected to the LAN 2011.

  In addition, a server device 240 constituted by a personal computer is connected, and can send and receive files and e-mails using FTP and SMB protocols.

  The image forming apparatuses 220 and 230 have scanner units 2270 and 2370, printer units 2295 and 2395, and operation units 2212 and 2312, which are connected to the controller unit 2200 and 2300, respectively.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the control configuration of the scanner units 2070 and 2370 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  In FIG. 2, the Controller Unit 2200 is connected to a color scanner 2015 that is an image input device and a color printer 2017 that is an image output device, and on the other hand, is connected to a LAN 2008 or a public line (WAN) 2051 so that image information and device information can be obtained. It is a controller for inputting and outputting.

  The CPU 2001 functions as a controller that controls the entire system. A RAM 2002 is a system work memory for operating the CPU 2001, and is also an image memory for temporarily storing image data. A ROM 2003 is a boot ROM, and stores a system boot program. A hard disk drive HDD 2004 stores system software and image data.

  An operation unit I / F 2005 is an interface unit with the operation unit (UI) 2006 and outputs image data to be displayed on the operation unit 2006 to the operation unit 2006. Also, it plays a role of transmitting information input by the system user from the operation unit 2006 to the CPU 2001.

  A network 2007 is connected to the LAN 2008 and inputs / outputs information. A Modem 2050 is connected to the public line 2051 and inputs / outputs image information. The binary image rotation unit 2052 and the binary image compression / decompression unit 2053 convert the direction of the image before transmitting the binary image by Modem 2050, or convert the image to a predetermined resolution or a resolution suited to the other party's ability. It is for doing. Note that compression and decompression support JBIG, MMR, MR, and MH.

  The DMAC 2009 reads an image stored in the RAM 2002 without using the CPU 2001, transfers the image to the ImageBus I / F 2011A, or writes an image from the image bus into the RAM 2002 without using the CPU 2001. The above devices are connected to the system bus 2008A.

  The ImageBus I / F 2011A is an interface for controlling high-speed image input / output via the image bus 2010. The compression unit 2012 performs JPEG compression in units of 32 pixels × 32 pixels before sending an image to the image bus 2010. The decompressing unit 2013 decompresses an image sent via the image bus 2010.

  The raster image processor (RIP) 2018 receives the PDL code from the host computer via the network 2007, and the CPU 2001 stores the PDL code in the RAM 2002 through the system bus 2008.

  The CPU 2001 converts the PDL code into an intermediate code, inputs it again to the RIP 2018 via the system bus 2008, and develops it into a bitmap image (multi-value).

  The scanner image processing unit 2014 performs various appropriate image processing (for example, correction, processing, editing) on the color image and black-and-white image from the scanner 2015 and outputs (multi-value).

  Similarly, the printer image processing unit 2016 performs binary multi-value conversion in the decompression unit 2013 at the time of printing for performing various kinds of image processing (for example, correction, processing, editing) on the printer 2017. Value output is possible. The image conversion unit 2030 has various image conversion functions used when an image on the RAM is converted and returned to the RAM 2003 again.

  The rotation unit 2019 can rotate an image of 32 pixels × 32 pixels unit at a specified angle, and supports binary and multi-value input / output. The scaling unit 2020 has a function (for example, from 25% to 400%) for converting the resolution of the image (for example, from 600 dpi to 200 dpi) or scaling.

  Before scaling, the 32 × 32 pixel image is rearranged into an image in units of 32 lines.

  The color space conversion unit 2021 converts, for example, a YUV image on the memory into a Lab image by matrix operation and LUT for the multi-valued input image, and stores it on the memory. Further, this color space conversion has a 3 × 8 matrix operation and a one-dimensional LUT, and can perform well-known background removal and show-through prevention. The converted image is output in multiple values.

  A binary multi-value conversion unit 2022 converts a 1-bit binary image into multi-value 8 bits and 256 gradations. On the other hand, the multi-level binary conversion unit 2026 converts an 8-bit, 256-gradation image on the memory into 1-bit, 2-gradation by a technique such as error diffusion processing, and stores it on the memory. The synthesizing unit 2023 has a function of synthesizing two multi-value images on the memory into one multi-value image.

  For example, a company logo can be easily attached to a document image by combining the image of the company logo in the memory with the document image. The thinning unit 2024 is a unit that performs resolution conversion by thinning out pixels of the multi-valued image, and can output 1/2, 1/4, and 1/8 multi-valued images. By using it together with the zoom unit 2020, a wider range of enlargement / reduction can be performed.

  The moving unit 2025 can output the input binary image or multi-valued image by adding a margin portion or deleting the margin portion. A rotation unit 2019, a scaling unit 2020, a color space conversion unit 2021, a binary multi-value conversion unit 2022, a synthesis unit 2023, a thinning unit 2024, a moving unit 2025, and a multi-value binary conversion unit 2026 operate in conjunction with each other. For example, when a multi-value image on a memory is subjected to image rotation and resolution conversion, both processes can be performed without using a memory.

  An image processing system including the image processing apparatus configured as described above has the following characteristic configuration.

  The image forming apparatuses 200, 220, 230, and the like illustrated in FIG. 1 can communicate with the server apparatus (PC) 240 illustrated in FIG. 1 that stores functional information that describes the functions of the image processing apparatus to which various optional devices can be connected. The functional configuration of the image processing apparatus main body configured and expanded by various optional devices is investigated by, for example, step S5302 shown in FIG. 17 executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. Then, based on the functional configuration to be investigated, the function information for explaining the functional configuration is acquired from the server device 240 by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2, for example, in step S5307 shown in FIG. The function information is registered in the hard disk 2004 shown in FIG. 2 as a database.

  2 is executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2 to determine whether or not the server device 240 can request the acquisition of the function information when the function information acquisition request is issued. When it is determined that the function is available, the function information is acquired from the server device 240 and displayed on the operation unit 2006. When the CPU 2001 determines that the request is not possible, the function information is obtained from the database in the hard disk 2004. For example, steps S5304 to S5311 shown in FIG. 17 are executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2 so as to be acquired and displayed on the operation unit 2006.

  As a result, even when various optional devices are connected to the main body of the image processing apparatus and the functions are expanded, the function that explains the necessary functions in a timely manner without storing function information for explaining the functions in advance. By acquiring information and creating a database, the function description display environment with excellent convenience and economy that can respond freely to requests for function descriptions from the user simply by securing a storage space for minimum function information. Can be maintained.

  Note that the function information describing the functions of the image processing apparatus is help information.

  As a result, the latest help information for the extended function can be acquired, and the help function adapted to the operation instruction can be freely performed.

  Further, in the display control executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2, until the function information is acquired from the server device 240, the function information is acquired from the database in the hard disk 2004 and displayed on the display unit. After the acquisition, the function information acquired from the server device 240 can be switched to display.

  Thereby, it is possible to avoid the state where nothing is displayed for the time from when the function information is requested until the function information is acquired from the server device, and to display appropriate function information for the user.

  3 and 4 are diagrams for explaining the processing state of image data in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention. The format of an image used in this embodiment is disclosed in, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-103473. The image packet structure is adopted.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the compression unit 2012 rearranges raster format images as packets in units of 32 × 32 pixels and performs JPEG compression in units of packets. At the same time, the packet is composed of packet data in a data format as shown in FIG. 4 having a header to which information such as an ID indicating the position of the packet, a color space, a Q table ID, and a data length is added. Binary data (image area flag) indicating characters and photographs is similarly compressed and attached after JPEG.

  The decompression unit 2013 develops JPEG based on the header information and rearranges it into a raster image. By making such a packet image, only the image inside the packet is rotated at the time of image rotation, and by changing the position of the packet ID, it can be partially rotated by decompression and compression, so it is very efficient. . All images flowing through ImageBus 2010 are packet images.

  When a raster image is necessary for FAX transmission, binary image rotation unit 2052, binary image compression / decompression unit 2053, etc., conversion from a packet image to a raster image is performed by software.

  FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing details of the scanner image processing unit 2014 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 5, the RGB 8-bit luminance signal input from the scanner is converted into a standard RGB color signal independent of the CCD filter color by masking 2501. In the filter 2502, for example, a 9 × 9 matrix is used, and an image is blurred or sharpened. A histogram 2503 is a processing unit that samples image signal data in an input image, and is used to determine the background level of the input image.

  In this module, RGB data in a rectangular area surrounded by the specified start and end points in the main and sub-scan directions is sampled at a constant pitch in the main and sub-scan directions, and a histogram is created. . This histogram is read when background skipping or prevention of show-through is specified, and the background of the original is estimated from the histogram, and is stored and managed in the memory or HDD along with the image as the background skipping level. Used for image processing.

  In gamma 2504, processing is performed so that the density of the entire image is increased or decreased. For example, it is a part that converts the color space of the input image into an arbitrary color space or performs correction processing relating to the color of the input system. In order to determine whether the document is color or black and white, the image signal before scaling is converted into a known Lab by color space conversion 2505.

  Of these, a and b represent color signal components, and a 1-bit determination signal is output from the comparator 2506 as a chromatic color if it is equal to or higher than a predetermined level in the comparator 2506 and otherwise as an achromatic color. The counter 2507 measures the output from the comparator 2506. A character / photo determination 2508 is a function for extracting a character edge from an image and separating the image into a character and a photo. As an output, a character photograph determination signal is obtained. This signal is also stored in the memory or HD together with the image and used during printing. Reference numeral 2509 denotes a specific document determination device. The specific document determination unit can compare the input image signal and the degree to which the pattern held in the determination unit matches, and can read the determination result of matching or mismatching as illustrated. The image is processed according to the determination result to prevent counterfeiting of banknotes and securities.

  FIG. 6 is a block diagram showing details of the printer image processing unit 2016 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 2601 denotes a background removal unit that removes the background color of image data and removes the background fogging. For example, the background removal is performed by a 3 × 8 matrix operation or a one-dimensional LUT.

  Reference numeral 2602 denotes a monochrome generation unit that converts color image data, for example, RGB data into Gray single color when converting color image data into monochrome data and printing it as a single color. For example, it is composed of a 1 × 3 matrix operation that multiplies RGB by an arbitrary constant to obtain a Gray signal. An output color correction unit 2603 performs color correction in accordance with the characteristics of the printer unit that outputs image data.

  For example, it includes processing by 4 × 8 matrix calculation or direct mapping. A filter processing unit 2604 arbitrarily corrects the spatial frequency of the image data, and includes, for example, processing for performing a 9 × 9 matrix operation.

  Reference numeral 2605 denotes a process for performing gamma correction in accordance with the characteristics of the printer unit to be output, and is usually composed of a one-dimensional LUT. A processing unit 2606 performs arbitrary halftone processing in accordance with the number of gradations of the output printer unit, and is a halftone processing unit that performs arbitrary screen processing such as binarization and binarization and error diffusion processing. is there. Each process can be switched by a character / photo determination signal (not shown).

  The inter-drum delay memory 2607 is a memory for superimposing CMYK images by shifting the CMYK printing timing by an amount between the drums in a color printer having CMYK drums. In a color printer having four drums for each color of CMYK, it can be delayed to align the position of the image.

  FIG. 7 is an external view showing an example of input / output devices of the scanner units 2070 and 2370 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 7, a scanner unit 2015, which is an image input device, illuminates an image on paper as a document and scans a CCD line sensor (not shown), thereby converting it into an electrical signal as raster image data. The original paper is set on the tray 2702 of the original feeder 2701, and when the apparatus user gives an instruction to start reading from the operation unit 2006, the CPU 2001 gives an instruction to the scanner 2015, and the original paper is supplied one by one from the tray 2702 of the original feeder 2701. Feeds and reads the original image.

  The printer unit 2017, which is an image output device, is a part that converts raster image data into an image on paper. The method is an electrophotographic method using a photosensitive drum or a photosensitive belt, and ink is ejected from a micro nozzle array. There is an ink jet method for printing an image directly on paper, but any method may be used.

  The activation of the printing operation is started by an instruction from the CPU 2001. The printer 2095 has a plurality of paper feed stages so that different paper sizes or different paper orientations can be selected, and has paper cassettes 2703, 2704, and 2705 corresponding thereto. Reference numeral 2706 denotes a paper discharge tray for receiving the printed paper.

  FIG. 8 is a plan view showing an example of the operation unit 2006 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 8, the LCD display unit 2801 has a touch panel sheet 2802 pasted on the LCD, displays a system operation screen and soft keys, and transmits position information to the CPU 2001 when the displayed keys are pressed. .

  A start key 2803 is used when starting a document image reading operation. There is a green and red two-color LED 2804 at the center of the start key 2803, and the color indicates whether or not the start key 2803 can be used.

  A stop key 2805 functions to stop an operation in operation. A guide key 2806 is used to display help when the user does not know how to use the function. A reset key 2807 is used when initializing settings from the operation unit.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2801 of the operation unit 2006 shown in FIG. 2, which is an example of an initial screen in the image forming apparatus, and returns after setting each image forming function. Displayed as a standard screen.

  In FIG. 9, reference numeral 3101 denotes a copy button for switching a screen for performing copy settings. Reference numeral 3102 denotes a send button for switching a screen for setting to send a scanned image by fax or e-mail.

  Reference numeral 3103 denotes a box button for switching a screen for setting to store a scan image or a PDL image in the built-in HDD, or to print, transmit, or edit the stored scan image or PDL image.

  Reference numeral 3104 denotes a window, which displays settings for reading an image set by a read setting button 3105. A read setting button 3105 is instructed when setting resolution, density, and the like when reading an image. Reference numeral 3106 denotes a transmission setting button which is instructed when performing timer setting at the time of timer transmission, setting for printing on the HDD or printer, and the like.

  Reference numeral 3107 denotes a transmission destination setting window which displays the transmission destination designated by the destination table button 3108. A detailed information button 3109 displays detailed information of one destination displayed in the transmission destination setting window 3107. The delete button 3110 deletes one destination displayed in the transmission destination setting window 3107.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2801 of the operation unit 2006 shown in FIG. 2, and a pop-up window displayed when the read setting button 3105 shown in FIG. 9 is pressed. It is an example.

  In FIG. 10, reference numeral 3201 denotes an original size selection button, which is used to input an instruction when selecting a read original size from a pop-up, and the set read size is displayed on the original size display unit 3202.

  Reference numeral 3203 denotes a color mode selection button. When an instruction is input when selecting a reading mode of an original, and the color mode selection button 3203 is pressed, three types of color / black / automatic (ACS) can be selected. The color mode can be selected in the same way for copy and box.

  Note that if the measurement result of the counter 2507 shown in FIG. 5 is smaller than a predetermined value, the black and white original is judged, and if it is larger, the color original and the scanner image processing unit 2014 judge. If the color is black, the color image is judged. For the image, in the case of ACS, a color image and the result of determining whether the document is color or black and white are stored.

  A resolution input unit 3204 is configured to select and input a resolution for reading a document image by selecting and inputting from a combination of resolutions displayed in a pop-up.

  Reference numeral 3205 denotes a slider for adjusting the reading density of the original, and can be adjusted in, for example, nine steps. Reference numeral 3206 denotes an AE button (automatic button), which is selected when the density is automatically determined when an image with a background such as a newspaper is read. For the AE button 3206, the same setting can be made for the copy processing.

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2801 of the operation unit 2006 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to, for example, a screen display example when the copy tab 3101 shown in FIG. 9 is pressed. .

  In FIG. 11, reference numeral 3301 denotes a message display portion indicating whether or not copying is currently possible, and the number of copies set at the same time is also displayed at the right end.

  Reference numeral 3302 denotes an automatic button, which is a function equivalent to the automatic button 3206 shown in FIG. 10, and is a button for selecting whether to automatically remove the background. Reference numeral 3303 denotes a slider, which has a function equivalent to that of the slider 3205 shown in FIG. 10, and is a slider capable of, for example, nine levels of density adjustment.

  Reference numeral 3304 denotes an original type selection button for selecting an original type. For example, an original type can be selected from a character / photo / map, a photographic paper photo, and a printed photo.

  Reference numeral 3305 denotes an application mode button which can set a reduced layout (a function for reducing and printing a plurality of originals on one sheet), a color balance (CMYK color fine adjustment), and the like. Reference numeral 3306 denotes a button for performing settings relating to various finishings, and shift sort, staple sort, and group sort can be set. Reference numeral 3307 denotes a button for performing settings relating to duplex reading and duplex printing.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2801 of the operation unit 2006 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to a screen display example when the box tab 3103 shown in FIG. 9 is pressed, for example. To do.

  In FIG. 12, reference numeral 3401 denotes a folder selection button, which indicates each folder logically divided from the HDD 2004 shown in FIG. A folder number is assigned to the folder in advance, and the folder selection button 3401-1 is instructed when the 0th folder is selected.

  In addition, the ratio of the disk capacity used in the folder is displayed next to the folder number. Folders can be given any name, and the name is displayed here. Reference numeral 3402 denotes an exclusive display unit that displays the usage amount of the entire HDD 2004 shown in FIG.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of an operation screen displayed on the LCD display unit 2801 of the operation unit 2006 illustrated in FIG. 2. For example, a screen table when the folder selection button 3401-1 illustrated in FIG. 12 is pressed. Corresponds to the example shown.

  In FIG. 13, 3501-1 and 3502-1 indicate documents stored in the folder. The document is composed of a plurality of pages.

  A document 3501-1 is a scanned document, and displays an icon display indicating that it is a scanned document, an HDD usage amount, and a document name display that can be arbitrarily set by the user.

  An icon 3502-1 is a PDL document stored from the PDL. By depressing the icon, it is shown in reverse video that the document has been selected.

  A transmission button 3503 is instructed when the selected document is transmitted. A read button 3504 is a button for reading a document from a scanner and generating a document. 3505 is instructed when all the documents in the folder are selected.

  Reference numeral 3506 denotes a delete button which is instructed when deleting the selected document. Reference numeral 3507 denotes a print button, which is instructed when the selected document is printed. An edit button 3508 is instructed when the selected document is edited.

  For example, it has a function of selecting and combining two documents, saving them as one document, and deleting a specific page.

  Reference numeral 3509 denotes a detailed information button, which is instructed when displaying detailed information of the last selected document. In addition to the document name, information such as resolution, document size, and color can be viewed.

  FIG. 14 is a view for explaining the software module configuration of the Controller Unit 2000 shown in FIG. 1, and systematically shows the linkage with each module. Each module is stored in the hard disk 2004 or the like, read by the CPU 2001, loaded onto the RAM 2002, and executed, thereby realizing each functional process.

  In FIG. 14, reference numeral 4010 denotes a UI control module unit (UI control unit), which controls the display operation unit. In response to an instruction from the UI control unit 4010, there are a copy application unit 4020, a transmission application unit 4021, and a BOX application unit 4022, which execute a copy operation, a transmission operation, scanning from a box screen, and printing.

  Also, there is a PDL application unit 4023 that receives PDL print data from the network application 4120 and inputs a PDL print job.

  Reference numeral 4030 denotes a common interface for absorbing the device-dependent portion of the device control portion. Reference numeral 4040 denotes a job manager that organizes job information received from the common interface 4030 and transmits the job information to a lower layer document processing unit.

  The document processing unit includes a scan manager 4050 and a print manager 4090 for local copy, a scan job for remote copy, or a scan manager 4050 and file store manager 4100 for a transmission job, and a file read manager for a remote copy reception job. 4060 and a print manager 4090, and PDL manager 4070 and print manager 4090 for PDL printing such as LIPS and PostScript.

  An image processing request to the image manager 4110 that performs synchronization between the document managers and performs various image processing is performed via the sync manager 4080. The image manager 4110 performs image processing during scanning and printing and storage of image files in the hard disk 2004 or the like.

  First, local copy software processing will be described.

  A copy setting is transmitted from the UI control unit 4010 to the copy application unit 4020 together with a copy instruction in accordance with a user instruction. The copy application unit 4020 transmits information from the UI control unit 4010 to the job manager 4040 that performs device control via the common interface 4030.

  The job manager 4040 transmits job information to the scan manager 4050 and the print manager 4090. The scan manager 4050 issues a scan request to the scanner 2070 via a device I / F (not shown) (the device I / F is a serial I / F connecting the controller 2000 and the scanner 2015 and the controller 2000 and the printer 2017).

  At the same time, an image processing request for scanning is issued to the image manager 4110 via the sync manager 4080. The image manager 4110 sets the scanner image processing unit 2014 in accordance with an instruction from the scan manager 4050. When the setting is completed, a scan preparation completion is notified via the sync manager 4080.

  Thereafter, the scan manager 4050 instructs the scanner 2070 to scan. The completion of scan image transfer is transmitted to the image manager 4110 by an interrupt signal from hardware (not shown).

  Upon receiving the scan completion from the image manager 4110, the sync manager 4080 notifies the scan manager 4050 and the print manager 4090 of the scan completion.

  At the same time, the sync manager 4080 instructs the image manager 4110 to file the compressed image stored in the RAM 2002 into the HDD 2004. The image manager 4110 stores an image (including a character / photo determination signal) on the memory in the HDD 2004 according to the instruction. A color determination / monochrome determination result, a background skip level for performing background skip, a scanned image, and a color space RGB as an image input source are also stored in an SRAM (not shown) as accompanying information of the image.

  When the storage in the HDD 2004 is completed and the scan completion from the scanner 2070 is received, the scan manager 4050 is notified of the completion of file formation via the sync manager 4080. The scan manager 4050 returns an end notification to the job manager 4040, and the job manager 4040 returns it to the copy application unit 4020 via the common interface 4030. The print manager 4090 issues a print request to the printer 2095 via the device I / F when an image is stored in the memory.

  At the same time, a print image processing request is sent to the sync manager 4080. Upon receiving a request from the print manager 4090, the sync manager 4080 requests the image manager 4110 for image processing settings. The image manager 4110 sets the printer image processing unit 2016 according to the accompanying information of the image, and notifies the print manager 4090 of completion of print preparation via the sync manager 4080.

  The print manager 4090 issues a print instruction to the printer. The completion of print image transfer is transmitted to the image manager 4110 by an interrupt signal from hardware (not shown). In response to the print completion from the image manager 4110, the sync manager 4080 notifies the print manager 4090 of the print completion. The print manager 4090 receives the completion of paper discharge from the printer unit, returns an end notification to the job manager 4040, and the job manager 4040 returns it to the copy application unit 4020 via the common interface 4030. The copy application unit 4020 notifies the UI control unit 4010 of the end of the job when scanning and printing are completed.

  In the case of a remote copy scan job or transmission job, the file store manager 4100 receives a request from the job manager 4040 instead of the print manager 4090. When the scan image is stored in the HDD 2004, a storage completion notification is received from the sync manager 4080, and this is notified via the common interface 4030 to the copy application unit 4020 for remote copy and to the transmission application unit 4021 for a transmission job.

  After this notification, the copy application unit 4020 and the transmission application unit 4021 request the network application 4120 to transmit the file stored in the HDD. The network application 4420 that has received the request transmits the file. The network application unit 4120 receives setting information related to copying from the copy application unit 4020 at the start of the job, and also notifies the remote device of the setting information. In the case of remote copy, the network application 4120 performs transmission using a device-specific communication protocol. In the case of a transmission job, a standard file transfer protocol such as FTP or SMB is used.

  In the case of fax transmission, after the file is stored, the transmission application 4021 instructs the FAX manager 4041 to transmit via the common interface 4030 and the job manager 4040. The FAX manager 4041 negotiates with the other device via the Modem 2050, requests the image manager 4110 to perform necessary image processing (color-> black and white conversion, multi-value binary conversion, rotation, scaling), and converts the converted image. Send using Modem.

  When there is a printer at the transmission destination, the transmission application issues a print instruction as a print job via the common interface 4030. The operation at that time is the same as that of the remote copy print job described below. When the transmission destination is a box destination in the device, the file store manager 4100 stores it in the file system in the device.

  At the time of FAX reception, the FAX manager 4041 receives an image using Modem and stores it in the HDD 2004 as an image file. When the box application 4021 is notified after the HDD 2004 is stored, a reception print instruction is issued from the box application 4022 to the job manager 4040 via the common interface 4030. Thereafter, the operation is the same as that of a normal box print job, and the description is omitted.

  In the case of a remote copy print job, the network application unit 4120 stores the image from the transmission side in the HDD 2004 and issues the job to the copy application unit 4020.

  The copy application unit 4020 submits a print job to the job manager 4040 via the common interface 4030. Unlike local copy, the file read manager 4060 receives a request from the job manager 4040 instead of the scan manager 4050.

  Then, a request for expanding the received image from the HDD 2004 to the memory is made to the image manager 4110 via the sync manager 4080. The image manager 4110 expands the image in the memory.

  The image manager 4110 informs the file read manager 4060 and the print manager 4090 of the end of expansion via the sync manager 4080 when the expansion is completed.

  The print manager 4090 selects a paper feed stage instructed by the job manager or a stage having the paper size to the printer 2017 via the device I / F when an image is stored in the memory, and issues a print request. In the case of automatic paper, the paper feed stage is determined from the image size and a print request is issued.

  At the same time, a print image processing request is sent to the sync manager 4080. Upon receiving a request from the print manager 4090, the sync manager 4080 requests the image manager 4110 to set print image processing.

  At this time, for example, if there is no optimal size sheet and rotation is necessary, a rotation instruction is also requested separately. When there is a rotation instruction, the image manager uses the image rotation unit 2019 to rotate the image.

  The image manager 4110 sets the printer image processing unit 2090 and notifies the print manager 4090 of completion of print preparation via the sync manager 4080. The print manager 4090 issues a print instruction to the printer. The completion of print image transfer is transmitted to the image manager 4110 by an interrupt signal from hardware (not shown).

  Upon receiving the print completion from the image manager 4110, the sync manager 4080 notifies the file read manager 4060 and the print manager 4090 of the print completion. The file read manager 4060 returns an end notification to the job manager 4040.

  In response to the completion of paper discharge from the printer unit, the print manager 4090 returns an end notification to the job manager 4040. The job manager 4040 returns an end notification to the copy application unit 4020 via the common interface 4030. The copy application unit 4020 notifies the UI control unit 4010 of the end of the job when scanning and printing are completed.

  In the case of a PDL data development storage job, a request from the host PC that has input the PDL print is transmitted to the PDL application unit 4023 via the network application unit 4120.

  The PDL application 4023 instructs the job manager 4040 via the common interface 4030 for a PDL data development storage job. At this time, the PDL manager 4070 and the file store manager 4100 receive a request from the job manager 4040. An image input portion after completion of RIP of the image is the same as that of the above-described scan job.

  The image on the memory (including the character / photo determination signal) is stored in the HDD 2004. Color / monochrome information is stored in an unillustrated SRAM as image accompanying information, and a PDL image, color space CMYK or RGB is also stored as an image input source.

  When the storage of the PDL image in the HDD 2004 is completed, a storage completion notification is received from the sync manager 4080 and is notified to the PDL application 4023 via the common interface 4030. After this notification, the PDL application 4023 notifies the network application 4120 of the storage completion to the HDD, and this information is transmitted to the host PC that has entered the PDL print. In the case of a PDL print job, the image developed on the memory is printed by the PDL manager 4070 and the print manager 4090.

  To print an image stored in the PDL format, a stored document instructed to be printed on the UI is issued to the BOX application 4022 as a print job. The BOX application unit 4022 inputs a print job to the job manager 4040 via the common interface 4030. Unlike local copy, the file read manager 4060 receives a request from the job manager 4040 instead of the scan manager 4050. A request for expanding an image instructed to be printed from the HDD to the memory is made to the image manager 4110 via the sync manager 4080. The subsequent operations are the same as the operations described in the remote copy print job, and are therefore omitted.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram for explaining the structure of a database of image processing device information stored in the server device according to the present invention. Each storage device provided in the server device 240 connectable to the LAN 2011 shown in FIG. Can be constructed. Hereinafter, downloading of device information will be described in detail. Further, it is assumed that help information is stored, for example, hierarchically in the server device 240 for each image input / output device and for each option connected to the image input / output device.

  In FIG. 15, reference numerals 5001 and 5002 denote help data structures, which are help data structures for each digital copying machine. The help data structure 5001 is a hierarchical database as shown in the figure, and includes a scanner database 5003, a printer database 5005, a PDL option database 5007, and a FAX option database 5008.

  Similarly, the help data structure 5002 also includes a scanner database 5004 and a printer database 5006.

  For example, when the scanner A is connected to the scanner database 5003, the scanner A and the ADF are further connected, the scanner B is connected, the scanner B and the ADF are further connected 4 There are different types of databases. Data is stored according to each case.

  Similarly, when the scanner C is connected to the database 5004, there are two types of databases when the scanner C and the ADF are connected.

  Reference numeral 5005 denotes a printer database. When the printer A is connected, when the printer A and the finisher A are connected, when the printer A and the finisher B are connected, the printer A and the finisher C are connected. There is a case. Similar to the scanner database 5003, there is data not shown for each category.

  Similarly, the printer database 5006 may be connected to the printer A or may be connected to the printer A and the finisher A. Since there is data included in the first digital copying machine for the printer, the same data may be linked to the data of the first digital copying machine instead of having duplicate data.

  The PDL option database 5007 includes data when the PDL board A is connected and when the PDL board B is connected. The FAX option database 5008 contains data when the FAX board A is connected and when two FAX boards A are connected.

  This database uses a general-purpose database that operates on the server device 240 shown in FIG. 1, and is input via a network by keywords (type of digital copier, connected scanner, printer, PDL option, The corresponding data can be output to the FAX option.

  The data is stored in the state of the function and its help, and only the help of the corresponding function can be extracted.

  For example, in finisher A, only the upper left staple can be used, but in finisher B, there are differences such as double stapling at any of the four corners. The finisher B stores help for a method of setting staples at four corners, a case that cannot be performed depending on the paper size, and the like.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a module configuration for performing apparatus information collection processing in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  For example, in each mode of the copy screen, the transmission screen, and the box screen, when the guide key 2807 is pressed, the information collection application 5101 is requested for help information of the function. If the information collection application has the small database 5102 and there is help information stored before, the help information is received from the small database 5102 and passed to the UI control unit 4010. The UI control unit 4010 displays the received help information on the LCD display unit 2801.

  The information collection application 5101 collects the type of each connected device and the presence / absence of options from the scan component 5103, printer component 5104, FAX component 5105, and PDL component 5106 via the common interface 4030.

  Based on the collected information and the function when the help function is pressed (as a keyword), the database of the server device 240 shown in FIG. 1 (help data structure 5001 shown in FIG. 15) is obtained via the network application 4120. , 5002) through the LAN 2011.

  Then, the acquired information is stored in the small-scale database 5102 from the server device 240 via the LAN 2011, and simultaneously transferred to the UI control unit 4010. The UI control unit 4010 displays help information on the LCD display unit 2801 based on the obtained acquisition information.

  Further, when the network cannot be connected due to an error or the like, the network access is not performed, and only the information from the small database 5102 is passed to the UI control unit 4010.

  FIG. 17 is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to the information collection processing procedure by the information collection application 5101 shown in FIG. Note that (5301) to (5311) indicate steps, and each step is realized by the CPU 2001 loading a control program stored in the hard disk 2004 or the like on the RAM 2002 and executing it.

  First, in step (5301), the CPU 2001 waits for an information collection request from the UI control unit 4010. When there is an information collection request from the UI control unit 4010, the CPU 2001 obtains a function requiring help in step (5302). To do. Next, in step (5303), the network application 4120 is examined to determine whether a network connection is possible. As a result, it is determined whether or not the connection is possible. If it is determined that the connection is impossible, the process proceeds to step (5308) to obtain help information from the small database 5102, and the UI control unit 4010 is acquired in step (5309). And return to step (5301).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5303) that the network connection is possible, it is determined in step (5304) whether the small database 5102 exists, and if it is determined that the small database 5102 exists. In step (5305), information is acquired from the small-scale database 5102 and notified to the UI control unit 4010 in step (5306). Then, it progresses to step (5307).

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (5304) that there is no small database 5102, help information is acquired from the server device 240 via the network in step (5307), and the small database 5102 is acquired in step (5310). Write help information. Then, after notifying the UI control unit 4010 in step (5311), the process returns to step (5301).

  As a result, even if various options are attached to the image input / output device such as a digital copying machine, the help information is downloaded from the server device 240 to the image processing device, so that it may or may not be held in the device. The amount can be reduced. If the server cannot be connected due to a network error or the like, the problem can be temporarily avoided by using an internal database.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image processing system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs readable by the image processing system according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIG. 17 in this embodiment may be performed by the host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage. It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  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) or the like running 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.

  Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to 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 case where 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.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in the present specification by those skilled in the art.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Hereinafter, Embodiments 1 to 8 will be described.

[Embodiment 1]
Image processing apparatuses (image forming apparatuses 200 and 220 shown in FIG. 1) that can communicate with a server apparatus (server apparatus 240 shown in FIG. 1) that stores functional information that describes the functions of the image processing apparatus to which various optional devices can be connected. , 230, etc.), and a survey means for investigating the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus main body extended by various optional devices (for example, step (5302) shown in FIG. 17 executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2); Based on the functional configuration investigated by the investigation means, acquisition means for acquiring functional information for explaining the functional configuration from the server device (executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2, for example, step (5307) shown in FIG. 17) ), A database (hard disk 2004 shown in FIG. 2) for storing functional information acquired by the acquisition means, and the device A determination unit (for example, step 5303 shown in FIG. 17 executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) for determining whether or not the server device can request acquisition of the function information when an information acquisition request is issued, and the determination If it is determined by the means that the request is possible, the function information is acquired from the server device by the acquisition means and displayed on the display unit. If the determination means determines that the request is not possible, the database is An image processing apparatus comprising display control means (for example, steps (5304) to (5311) shown in FIG. 17 executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) for acquiring functional information and displaying it on the display unit .

  As a result, even when various optional devices are connected to the main body of the image processing apparatus and the functions are expanded, the function that explains the necessary functions in a timely manner without storing function information for explaining the functions in advance. By acquiring information and creating a database, the function description display environment with excellent convenience and economy that can respond freely to requests for function descriptions from the user simply by securing a storage space for minimum function information. Can be maintained.

  Further, even when the server apparatus cannot be connected due to a network failure or the like, it is possible to respond to a function information display request from the user with reference to the function information stored in the database.

[Embodiment 2]
The image processing apparatus according to the first embodiment, wherein the function information describing the function of the image processing apparatus is help information.

  As a result, the latest help information for the extended function can be acquired, and the help function adapted to the operation instruction can be freely performed.

[Embodiment 3]
The display control means acquires the function information from the database and displays it on the display unit until the acquisition means acquires the function information from the server apparatus, and acquires the function information from the server apparatus after acquiring the function information. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display is switched to display of the function information.

  Thereby, it is possible to avoid the state where nothing is displayed for the time from when the function information is requested until the function information is acquired from the server device, and to display appropriate function information for the user.

[Embodiment 4]
A display control method in an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that stores function information for explaining functions of an image processing apparatus to which various optional devices can be connected, and is an image processing apparatus main body extended by various optional devices And a step of acquiring the function information for explaining the functional configuration from the server device based on the functional configuration investigated by the investigating step (executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2) Step (5307) shown in FIG. 17, for example, and a registration step for registering function information acquired in the acquisition step in the database (executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2, for example, step (5310) shown in FIG. 17) Requesting the server device to acquire the function information when the function information acquisition request is issued A determination step for determining whether or not the current state can be performed (executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2, for example, step (5303) shown in FIG. 17); The display control step of acquiring the function information from the server device and displaying the function information on the display unit, and acquiring the function information from the database and displaying the function information on the display unit when the determination step determines that the request is not possible (For example, steps 5304 to 5311 shown in FIG. 17 executed by the CPU 2001 shown in FIG. 2).

  Thereby, there exists an effect similar to the said Embodiment 1. FIG.

[Embodiment 5]
The display control method according to embodiment 4, wherein the function information describing the function of the image processing apparatus is help information.

  Thereby, there exists an effect similar to the said Embodiment 2.

[Embodiment 6]
The display control step acquires the function information from the database and displays it on the display unit until the acquisition step acquires the function information from the server device, and acquires the function information from the server device after acquiring the function information. The display control method according to the fourth embodiment, wherein the display is switched to the display of the function information.

  Thereby, there exists an effect similar to the said Embodiment 3. FIG.

[Embodiment 7]
A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the display control method according to any one of Embodiments 4 to 6.

  Thereby, there exists an effect similar to the said Embodiments 4-6.

[Embodiment 8]
A program that causes a display control method according to any one of embodiments 4 to 6 to be executed.

  Thereby, there exists an effect similar to the said Embodiments 4-6.

1 is a block diagram illustrating an example of an image processing system to which an image processing apparatus according to the present invention can be applied. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a figure explaining the processing state of the image data in the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining the processing state of the image data in the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating details of a scanner image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating details of a printer image processing unit illustrated in FIG. 2. FIG. 2 is an external view illustrating an example of an input / output device of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a plan view illustrating an example of an operation unit illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of the operation part shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the operation screen displayed on the LCD display part of the operation part shown in FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software module configuration of the image forming apparatus illustrated in FIG. 2. It is a figure explaining the structure of the database of the image processing apparatus information which the server apparatus based on this invention memorize | stores. It is a figure explaining the module structure for performing the apparatus information collection process in the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the data processing procedure in the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the image processing apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

2000 Controller unit 2001 CPU
2002 RAM
2006 Operation unit 2015 Scanner 2017 Printer

Claims (8)

An image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that stores function information for explaining functions of an image processing apparatus to which various option devices can be connected,
Investigation means for investigating the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus main body extended by various optional devices;
Based on the functional configuration investigated by the investigating means, acquisition means for obtaining functional information for explaining the functional configuration from the server device;
A database for storing functional information acquired by the acquiring means;
A determination unit that determines whether the server device can request acquisition of the function information at the time of the function information acquisition request instruction;
When the determination means determines that the request is possible, the acquisition means acquires the function information from the server device and displays it on the display unit, and the determination means determines that the request is not possible. Display control means for acquiring function information from the database and displaying it on a display unit;
An image processing apparatus comprising:   The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the function information describing the function of the image processing apparatus is help information.   The display control unit acquires the function information from the database and displays it on the display unit until the acquisition unit acquires the function information from the server device, and acquires the function information from the server device after acquiring the function information. The image processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the display is switched to display of the function information. A display control method in an image processing apparatus capable of communicating with a server apparatus that stores functional information that describes functions of an image processing apparatus that can be connected to various optional devices,
An investigation step for investigating the functional configuration of the image processing apparatus main body extended by various optional devices;
Based on the functional configuration investigated by the investigating step, an acquisition step of obtaining functional information for explaining the functional configuration from the server device;
A registration step of registering the function information acquired in the acquisition step in a database;
A determination step of determining whether or not it is possible to request acquisition of the function information to the server device at the time of the function information acquisition request instruction;
When it is determined that the request is possible in the determination step, the function information is acquired from the server device by the acquisition step and displayed on the display unit, and when it is determined that the request is not possible in the determination step , A display control step of acquiring function information from the database and displaying it on the display unit;
A display control method comprising:   The display control method according to claim 4, wherein the function information describing the function of the image processing apparatus is help information.   The display control step acquires the function information from the database and displays it on the display unit until the acquisition step acquires the function information from the server device, and acquires the function information from the server device after acquiring the function information. The display control method according to claim 4, wherein the display is switched to display of the function information.   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the display control method according to claim 4.   A program for executing the display control method according to claim 4.

Images