JP3832988B2 - Multifunction system and data transfer method thereof - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a multi-function system and a data transfer method thereof, and more particularly to a multi-function system constituted by input devices and output devices connected to a network and a data transfer method thereof.
[0002]
[Prior art]
2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, many systems have been realized in which an input device such as a scanner or digital camera and an output device such as a printer or fax are connected to each other via a network to constitute a multi-function device system (hereinafter abbreviated as MFP system). In this type of system, a file server that temporarily stores data on the network and a client host that instructs data reading from the input device and data transmission to the output device (this may also serve as the file server) Is required.
[0003]
Hereinafter, as an example of a multifunction device, a conventional example that realizes a copying function by combining a scanner as an input device and a printer as an output device will be described.
[0004]
The user goes to a place where the scanner is located and sets an original to be copied, and then goes to a place where the client host is located and reads the original from the scanner. There is a method for realizing a copying function by designating output to a printer thereafter. Alternatively, there is a method of realizing a copying function by designating a destination of data read on the operation panel of the scanner and printing with a printer as the destination.
[0005]
When such a device is shared by a large number of users, an ID card or the like is issued for each department and a device that can be used is designated by using it.
[0006]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the former method, in order to realize the copy function, the user has to bother to move to a location on the client host and specify scan execution or print execution. This is more inconvenient and inconvenient than an actual copying machine (one in which a scanner and a printer are directly connected and integrated).
[0007]
On the other hand, in the latter method, since the method of specifying the destination by the scanner is complicated, the load on the user is increased, and the display screen of the operation panel becomes larger in order to realize a new complicated specification method Since many operation buttons are required, the cost of the scanner increases.
[0008]
In addition, use restrictions and management for each department using an ID card are not suitable for flexible setting for each individual.
[0009]
The present invention provides a multi-function system and a data transfer method thereof that eliminate the above-mentioned conventional drawbacks, save the user's operation while preventing an increase in cost, and allow flexible setting for each individual.
[0010]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to overcome the above problems, a multifunction system according to the present invention includes an input device, an output device, and a Information processing device In a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by a combination of Information processing device Each of the input device and the output device of Device information acquisition means for acquiring device information; Acquired by the device information acquisition means Based on device information Indicates a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device Transfer path information generating means for generating transfer path information; Generated by the transfer path information generating means Transfer path information For the input device or the output device Transfer path information supply means to supply User information generation means for generating user information in which a combination of the input device and the output device is associated with a user; And the input device or the output device sends the device-specific information to the device. Information processing device Device information supply means for transmitting to the transfer path information Information processing device Transfer path information acquisition means acquired from User information acquisition means for acquiring the user information from the information processing apparatus; Transfer path information selection means for selecting one of one or more transfer path information acquired by the transfer path information acquisition means; User information selection means for selecting one or more pieces of user information acquired by the user information acquisition means, and the selected Transfer path information And user information And a data transfer means for transferring data from the input device to the output device.
[0011]
Here, the transfer path information generation means includes transfer path information setting means for setting the transfer path information. In addition, the transfer path information obtaining unit obtains transfer path information related to each device. Information processing device The transfer path information supply means supplies transfer path information related to the requested device in accordance with the transfer request of each device. Further, the transfer path information storage means in which the input device or the output device stores the transfer path information in a database. Have , The transfer path selection means includes: One is selected from one or more transfer path information stored in the transfer path information storage means of each device.
[0012]
The data transfer method of the present invention is a data transfer method in a multi-function system in which a copy function is configured by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device. Based on their unique device information, Indicates a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device Transfer path information is generated, and data is transferred from the input device to the output device in accordance with the transfer path information supplied in accordance with the transfer request of the input device or the output device. Here, the generation of the transfer path information includes a step of setting the transfer path information. The method further includes a step of selecting one of the supplied one or more transfer path information. In the transfer path information supply, the transfer path information related to the requested device is supplied in accordance with the transfer request of each device.
[0013]
The storage medium of the present invention is a storage medium for storing a computer-readable data transfer control program in a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device. The data transfer control program is based on a module for acquiring device information unique to the input device and the output device, a module for storing the acquired device information in a database, and the stored device information. Indicates a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device A module for generating transfer path information, a module for storing the generated transfer path information in a database, and a module for supplying the stored transfer path information according to a transfer request of the input device or the output device. Features.
[0014]
A storage medium for storing a data transfer control program in a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to the output device, the data transfer control program being , Self Modules that send device-specific information and stored Indicates the path for transferring data from the input device to the output device, including its own device According to the module for acquiring transfer path information, the module for selecting one of the acquired one or more transfer path information, and the selected transfer path information. Between own device and other devices Including a module for transferring data
[0015]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.
[0016]
<Example of configuration of multi-function system of this embodiment>
FIG. 1 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a multifunction system according to the present embodiment.
[0017]
In FIG. 1, a network 101 is a network using a known technology for connecting devices, and in this embodiment, the use of Ethernet using the TCP / IP protocol is assumed.
[0018]
The network scanner 102 is a scanner that optically reads a document printed on paper or the like, has a network interface, and is connected to each device via the network 101.
[0019]
The management server 103 stores configuration information (hereinafter referred to as a transfer path profile) when configuring a virtual MFP (multifunction device) by a combination of the network scanner 102 and the network printer 104, and according to a request from an input device and an output device. It is a management server that provides a transfer path profile. The management server is usually realized by installing server software on a personal computer or workstation. The management server 103 has a network interface and is connected to each device via the network 101.
[0020]
The network printer 104 includes a network interface, receives print data and image data sent via the network interface, and actually prints on a medium such as paper using a known printing technique such as an electrophotographic technique. It is a printer. The network printer 104 is also connected to each device via the network 101.
[0021]
In the present embodiment, it is assumed that the image data transmitted from the network scanner can be printed immediately by the network printer 104. Normally, image data is converted into a well-known page description language (hereinafter referred to as PDL) and transmitted. Since the details of PDL are already known, a description thereof will be omitted.
[0022]
(Example of network scanner configuration)
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the network scanner 102.
[0023]
In FIG. 2, a scanner engine 201 is a scanner engine using a known optical reading technique. The CPU 202 is an arithmetic / control processor that controls the overall operation. A random access memory (RAM) 203 temporarily stores image data read by the scanner engine 201, stores work storage information, or stores a program loaded via an external storage device (not shown) or a network. It is. The ROM 204 is a read only memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 202 is written.
[0024]
Further, the network I / F 205 is an interface for connecting to the network 101, and the device profile supply unit 206 has a function of transmitting device information of the network scanner 102 to the management server 103. The transfer path profile acquisition unit 207 has a function of acquiring a transfer path profile from the management server and storing information in the RAM 203. The operation panel 208 is an operation panel composed of a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an LED and a plurality of operation buttons to provide a user interface. A user profile acquisition unit 209 acquires a user profile from the management server. The RAM 203 has a function of storing information.
[0025]
(Network printer configuration example)
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the network printer 104.
[0026]
In FIG. 3, a printer engine 301 is a printer engine that uses a known printing technique such as electrophotography or inkjet. The CPU 302 is an arithmetic / control processor that controls the overall operation. A random access memory (RAM) 303 temporarily stores image data to be printed on the printer engine 301, stores work storage information, or stores a program loaded via an external storage device (not shown) or a network. It is. The ROM 304 is a read only memory in which a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 302 is written.
[0027]
Further, the network I / F 305 is an interface for connecting to the network 101. The device profile supply unit 306 has a function of transmitting device information of the network printer 104 to the management server 103. The transfer path profile acquisition unit 307 has a function of acquiring a transfer path profile from the management server and storing information in the RAM 303. The operation panel 308 is an operation panel including a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an LED and a plurality of operation buttons in order to provide a user interface. The user profile acquisition unit 309 has a function of acquiring a user profile from the management server and storing information in the RAM 303.
[0028]
(Management server configuration example)
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of the management server 103.
[0029]
In FIG. 4, a CPU 401 is an arithmetic / control processor that controls the overall operation. The RAM 402 is a random access memory that stores work storage information and a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 401. The device profile database 404 is a database that stores device profiles of devices connected to the network. The transfer path file database 405 is a transfer database that stores transfer path profiles generated from device profiles.
[0030]
A network I / F 406 is an interface for connecting to the network 101. The device profile acquisition unit 407 has a function of acquiring a device profile from a device connected to the network and storing it in the device profile database 404. The transfer path profile supply unit 408 has a function of reading a transfer path profile from the transfer path profile database 405 and supplying it to the device via the network in accordance with the request of the device.
[0031]
The transfer path profile generation unit 409 has a function of generating a transfer path profile from the device information written in the device profile database 402 and writing it in the transfer path profile database 405. The user profile database 410 is a database that stores a profile for each user.
[0032]
The user interface 411 includes a keyboard and a display monitor for inputting and editing a user profile to be stored in the user profile database 410. The user profile supply unit 412 has a function of reading a user profile from the user profile database 410 and supplying it to a device via a network.
[0033]
(Example of device profile)
Next, a device profile will be described.
[0034]
The device profile is data indicating performance and characteristics regarding each device necessary for configuring the virtual MFP, and is configured from text data as shown in FIG.
[0035]
FIG. 5 is an example of a device profile in the network scanner 102.
[0036]
In FIG. 5, Device-type: indicates the type of device, and FIG. 5 indicates that the device is an input device and a scanner.
[0037]
Device-Id: indicates the model name of the device, and FIG. 5 indicates that ScannerXXX is the model name of the device.
[0038]
Device-address: indicates the network address of the device. In FIG. 5, 172.16.10.2 indicates the network address of the device.
[0039]
Resolution: is a resolution supported by the device, and FIG. 5 indicates that resolutions of 400 dpi, 600 dpi, and 1200 dpi are supported.
[0040]
Media-size: indicates a paper size supported by the device, and FIG. 5 indicates that the device supports A4, A5, and B4 paper sizes.
[0041]
Input-feet: indicates a charging unit when a device is used. FIG. 5 shows that a charge of 8 yen is charged when a 16-bit image is captured in A4 size.
[0042]
Document-format: is an image format supported by the device, and FIG. 5 shows that the device supports output of JPEG and GIF type images and output by LIPS4 type PDL.
[0043]
Input-command: describes a command for causing the scanner to read data from another device. “A4 / REQ A4-SCAN” indicates that a command “REQ A4-SCAN” may be transmitted to the network scanner in order to read in A4 size.
[0044]
FIG. 6 shows an example of a device profile in the network printer 104.
[0045]
In FIG. 6, Device-Type: indicates the type of device, and FIG. 6 indicates that the device is an output device and a laser beam printer.
[0046]
Device-Id: indicates the model name of the device, and in FIG. 6, LBP-XXX indicates the model name of the device.
[0047]
Device-address: indicates the network address of the device. In FIG. 6, 172.16.10.3 indicates the network address of the device.
[0048]
Resolution: is a resolution supported by the device. FIG. 6 shows that 300 dpi and 600 dpi resolutions are supported.
[0049]
Media-size: indicates a paper size supported by the device, and FIG. 6 indicates that the device supports A3, A4, A5, and B4 paper sizes.
[0050]
Output-feet: indicates a charging unit when a device is used, and FIG. 6 shows that a 10-yen charge is applied when a monochrome image is output in A4 size.
[0051]
Document-format: is an image format supported by the device, and indicates that input by LIPS4, N201, ESC / P is supported.
[0052]
<Example of operation of multi-function system of this embodiment>
(Collect device profiles)
The device profile of the device is acquired by the device profile acquisition unit of the management server 103.
[0053]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the device profile acquisition unit 407 of the management server 103. The device profile acquisition unit is activated when the management server 102 is activated, and operates until the system is terminated.
[0054]
In step S701, a device profile acquisition command is issued to a device connected to the network only once at startup. FIG. 8 shows the structure of the device profile acquisition command. “REQ” indicates a transfer request, and “DEVICE-PROFILE” indicates a device profile, which indicates a device profile request. This device profile acquisition command is broadcasted to the network in the form of a UDP packet in TCP / IP.
[0055]
In step S702, it is determined whether a device profile transfer command has arrived. If not, the process returns to step 702. FIG. 19 shows a structure example of a device profile transfer command. “SEND” on the first line indicates transfer, and “DEVICE-PROFILE” indicates a device profile, which indicates transfer of the device profile. The following lines indicate the contents of the device profile in the same manner as in FIG. 5 and are terminated by the line “END_OF_PROFILE”.
[0056]
When the device profile is transferred, the device profile acquisition unit records the device profile in the device profile database 404 in step S703, returns to step S702, and waits for the next device profile transfer command.
[0057]
Next, a mechanism for transferring a device profile from the device side will be described.
[0058]
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the device profile supply unit on the device side. In the case of the network scanner 102, the device profile supply unit is 206 in FIG. 2, and in the case of the network printer 104, it is 306 in FIG. The device profile supply unit is called when the device is activated and continues processing until the device is powered off.
[0059]
In step S901 in FIG. 9, the device executes device profile transfer to the management server 103 only once at the time of activation. If the management server 103 has been activated, a device profile transfer command is received in step S702 of FIG. 7, and this device profile transfer command is reflected in the device profile database 404. If the management server 103 is not activated, this device profile transfer command is not reflected in the device profile database 404 of the management server 103.
[0060]
In step S902, it is checked whether a device profile transfer request command has arrived. If not, the process returns to step S902. When the device profile transfer request command is sent from the management server 103, in step S903, the device profile transfer command is sent to the management server 103 as in step S901.
[0061]
This process is a process for reflecting the device information in the device profile database 404 when the management server 103 is started after the device is activated, and the device profile acquisition unit 407 of the management server 103 performs FIG. By issuing a device profile transfer request command at startup in step S701, it is ensured that the management server 103 always obtains device profiles of all devices connected to the network.
[0062]
(Generate transfer path profile)
In the management server 103, based on the device information written in the device profile database 404, the transfer path profile generation unit 409 generates a transfer path profile and stores it in the transfer path profile database 405. The transfer path profile is generated automatically based on a comparison of the data format of the input device and the output device, or in response to an instruction or change from the operator.
[0063]
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of the generated transfer path profile.
[0064]
In FIG. 10, the description: line indicates a character string displayed on the panel of the device when a transfer path is selected, and this transfer path indicates “COPY scannerXXX to LBP-XXX”.
[0065]
The “input-device:” line indicates the type of the input device, and the “output-device:” line indicates the type of the output device.
[0066]
The input-address: line indicates the network address of the input device, and the output-address: line indicates the network address of the output device.
[0067]
The line “Document-format:” indicates the format of the document used in this transfer path.
[0068]
The line “Copy-default:” indicates the number of copies to be used by default.
[0069]
Resolution: indicates the resolution used in this transfer path.
[0070]
Input-command: is information written in the device profile of the input device, and describes a command that causes the input device to read.
[0071]
(Supplying transfer path profile)
The management server usually has one or more transfer path profiles, and supplies the transfer path profile to each device according to the request of the input device and the output device.
[0072]
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the transfer path profile supply unit in the management server 103. The transfer path profile supply unit starts operating when the management server 103 is activated.
[0073]
In step S1101, all transfer path profiles stored in the transfer path profile database 405 at startup are notified to all devices connected to the network by a transfer path profile transfer command. Notification is performed by broadcast notification.
[0074]
In step S1102, whether or not there is a change in the transfer path profile database 405 is checked. If there is a change, in step S1103, the changed transfer path profile is notified to all devices connected to the network. Notification is performed by broadcast notification.
[0075]
In step S1104, it is checked whether a transfer path profile transfer request command has arrived from each device. If it has arrived, in step S1105, all transfer path profiles stored in the transfer path profile database 405 are notified to the requested device by the transfer path profile transfer command.
[0076]
If there is no change in step S1102 or no instruction has arrived in step S1104, steps S1102 and S1104 are repeated.
[0077]
FIG. 12 is a structural example of a transfer path profile request command. “REQ” indicates a transfer request, and “TRANSMISSION-PATH-PROFILE” indicates a transfer path profile, which indicates a request for a transfer path profile.
[0078]
FIG. 13 is a structural example of a transfer path profile transfer command. “SEND” in the first line indicates transfer, and “TRANSMISION-PATH-PROFILE” indicates a transfer path profile, which indicates transfer of the transfer path profile. The following lines indicate the contents of the transfer path profile, as in FIG. 10, and are terminated by the line “END_OF_PROFILE”.
[0079]
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the transfer path profile acquisition unit in the input device and the output device. The transfer path profile acquisition unit is 207 in FIG. 2 for the network scanner 102 and 307 in FIG. 3 for the network printer 104.
[0080]
In step S1401 of FIG. 14, the device issues a transfer path profile request command to the management server 103 in order to acquire a transfer path profile. By this command, Yes is determined in step S1104 of the flowchart (FIG. 11) of the transfer path profile supply unit 408 in the management server 103, and the transfer path profile is transferred in step S1105.
[0081]
If the transfer path profile is transferred by the transfer path profile transfer command in step S1402, it is stored in the RAM (203 in FIG. 2 for the network scanner 102 and 303 in FIG. 3 for the network printer 104) in step S1403.
[0082]
As described above, each device acquires the transfer path profile from the management server 103 and stores it in the RAMs 203 and 303.
[0083]
(User profile generation)
Next, a user profile will be described.
[0084]
The user profile defines in advance which input / output devices can be used for each user. The user profile can be input and edited from the user interface 411 of the management server 103, and is edited in advance and stored in the user profile database 410 before using the system.
[0085]
FIG. 20 is an example of a user profile stored in the user profile database 410.
[0086]
In FIG. 20, User: is a user name that is a personal ID for identifying a user, has a different name for each individual user, and is displayed on the panel of the device. FIG. 20 shows that the user is registered with the name kajita.
[0087]
“group:” is an organization to which the user belongs, an authority class, and the like. FIG. 20 shows that the user belongs to a group of design and project.
[0088]
“password:” is a password for authentication of the user, and in FIG. 20, “password” is “1234”.
[0089]
input-device: indicates the device name of the input device that can be used by the user. In FIG. 20, the scanner 001 and the scanner 008 can be used.
[0090]
output-device: indicates a device name of an output device that can be used by the user. In FIG. 20, LBP07 and LBP05 can be used.
[0091]
(Supply user profile)
The management server 103 usually has one or more user profiles, and supplies the user profile to each device according to the request of the input device and the output device.
[0092]
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the user profile supply unit 412 in the management server 103. The user profile supply unit 412 starts operating when the management server 103 is activated.
[0093]
In step S2101, all user profiles stored in the user profile database 410 at startup are notified to all devices connected to the network by a user profile transfer command. Notification is performed by broadcast notification.
[0094]
In step S2102, it is checked whether or not the user profile database 410 has been changed. If there is a change, in step S2103, the changed user profile is notified to all devices connected to the network. Notification is performed by broadcast notification.
[0095]
In step S2104, it is checked whether a user profile transfer request command has arrived from each device. If it has arrived, in step S2105, all user profiles stored in the user profile database 410 are notified to the requested device by a user profile transfer command.
[0096]
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a user profile request command. It is. “REQ” indicates a transfer request, and “TRANSMISION-USER-PROFILE” indicates a user profile, which indicates a user profile request.
[0097]
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a user profile transfer command. It is. “SEND” on the first line indicates transfer, and “TRANSMISSION-USER-PROFILE” indicates a user profile, which indicates transfer of the user profile. The following lines indicate the contents of the user profile, as in FIG. 20, and are terminated by the line “END_OF_PROFILE”.
[0098]
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of the user profile acquisition unit in the input device and the output device. The user profile acquisition unit is 209 in FIG. 2 for the network scanner 102 and 309 in FIG. 3 for the network printer 104.
[0099]
In step S2401, each device issues a user profile request command to the management server 103 in order to acquire a user profile. By this command, Yes is determined in step S2104 of the flowchart (FIG. 21) of the user profile supply unit 412 in the management server 103, and the user profile is transferred in step S2105.
[0100]
When the user profile is transferred by the user profile transfer command in step S2402, it is stored in the RAM (203 for the network scanner 102, 303 for the network printer 104) in step S2403.
[0101]
As described above, each device acquires the user profile from the management server 103 and stores it in the RAMs 203 and 303.
[0102]
(Example of data transfer from scanner to printer)
Next, a process for printing a document actually read from a scanner with a printer will be described.
[0103]
The user stands in front of the network scanner 102, sets an original, and then operates the panel to perform printing.
[0104]
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of the operation panel 208 in the network scanner 102. In FIG. 15, 1501 is a liquid crystal panel capable of displaying 12-digit characters, 1502 is a cross key for selecting each function, and 1503 is an execution button for executing a scan.
[0105]
The user selects a user profile by pressing the right key of the cross panel 1502.
[0106]
FIG. 25 shows the display contents of the liquid crystal panel (1501 in FIG. 15) when the right key of the cross panel is pressed once. The character string on the liquid crystal panel displays the character string shown in User: of FIG. 20, indicating that the user profile shown in FIG. 20 is selected.
[0107]
If a plurality of user path profiles are registered in the network scanner 102, another transfer path profile can be selected by further pressing the right key of the cross panel 1502. Note that when this user profile is selected, only the user profile in which the device name of the network scanner 102 is described is displayed in the user profile input device, and other user profiles cannot be selected. The selected user profile is confirmed by pressing the down key.
[0108]
After confirming, it shifts to the password input mode. In FIG. 26, 0 is displayed in the first digit of the four digits of the password, an * symbol is displayed in the remaining digits, and a cursor is displayed under the zero. In this state, by pressing the up key and down key of the cross panel 1502 in FIG. After setting the correct value, use the right key to move one digit to the right and set the PIN code for the next digit. Pressing the left key returns the cursor digit to the digit already set. By repeating this, when the password that matches the selected user profile is entered, the password is confirmed by pressing the down key. The network scanner 102 compares and checks the password in the user profile. If they match, the network scanner 102 proceeds to selection of the next transfer profile. If the passwords do not match, the operation is canceled and the original standby state is restored.
[0109]
Now, after the passwords match and move to transfer profile selection, the user selects a transfer path profile. FIG. 16 shows the display content of the liquid crystal panel 1501 after the password verification. The character string of the liquid crystal panel displays the character string indicated by “Description:” in FIG. 10 and indicates that the transfer path profile shown in FIG. 10 is selected.
[0110]
If a plurality of transfer path profiles are registered in the network scanner 102, another transfer path profile can be selected by pressing the right key of the cross panel 1502. In this case, the transfer profile displayed in this case is selected and displayed only when the output device described in the user profile is designated as the output destination. Therefore, the user can select the transfer path profile only within the designated range of his / her user profile.
[0111]
When a scan execution button 1503 is pressed here, a copy function using this transfer path profile is executed. According to the transfer path profile of FIG. 13, the network scanner 102 selects 172.16.10.3 (network printer) written in output-address: as an output device, and the document at a resolution of 600 dpi written in Resolution: And print data is transmitted in the LIPS4 format written in Document-format :. Copying is performed only once as described in Copy-default :.
[0112]
The print data is transferred to the network printer 104 via the network 101. At this time, the network printer 104 only performs print processing of the transferred print data regardless of the transfer path profile.
[0113]
In the above embodiment, the transfer path profile is selected from the operation panel of the network scanner 102 and the print data is transferred to the network printer 104. Conversely, the transfer path profile is selected from the operation panel of the network printer 104. A method for requesting the network scanner 102 to transmit print data will be described.
[0114]
The network printer 104 acquires the user profile and transfer path profile in the same manner as the network scanner 102 acquires the user profile and transfer path profile from the management server 103 in the above embodiment.
[0115]
The user sets an original on the network scanner 102 and then stands in front of the network printer 104 and operates the panel to perform printing.
[0116]
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of the operation panel 308 in the network printer 104.
[0117]
In FIG. 17, 1701 is a liquid crystal panel capable of displaying 12-digit characters, 1702 is a cross key for selecting each function, and 1703 is an execution button for executing printing.
[0118]
The user selects a user profile by pressing the right key of the cross panel 1702.
[0119]
FIG. 25 shows the display content of the liquid crystal panel 1701 when the right key of the cross panel is pressed once. The character string on the liquid crystal panel displays the character string shown in User: of FIG. 20, indicating that the user profile shown in FIG. 20 is selected.
[0120]
If a plurality of user path profiles are registered in the network printer 104, another transfer path profile can be selected by further pressing the right key of the cross panel 1702. When this user profile is selected, only the user profile in which the device name of the network printer 104 is described is displayed on the input device of the user profile, and other user profiles cannot be selected. The selected user profile is confirmed by pressing the down key.
[0121]
After confirming, it shifts to the password input mode. In FIG. 26, 0 is displayed in the first digit of the four digits of the password, an * symbol is displayed in the remaining digits, and a cursor is displayed under the zero. In this state, by pressing the upper key and the lower key of the cross panel 1702, the numerical value of the password PIN can be increased or decreased. After setting the correct value, use the right key to move one digit to the right and set the PIN code for the next digit. By repeating this, when the password of the selected user profile has been entered, the password is confirmed by pressing the down key. The network printer 104 compares and checks the password in the user profile, and if they match, the network printer 104 proceeds to selection of the next transfer profile. If the passwords do not match, the operation is canceled and the original standby state is restored.
[0122]
Now, after the passwords match and move to transfer profile selection, the user presses the right key of the cross panel 1702 to select the transfer path profile. FIG. 16 shows the display content of the liquid crystal panel 1701 after the password verification. The character string of the liquid crystal panel displays the character string indicated by “Description:” in FIG. 10, indicating that the transfer path profile shown in FIG. 10 is selected.
[0123]
If a plurality of transfer path profiles are registered in the network printer 104, another transfer path profile can be selected by pressing the right key of the cross panel 1702. At this time, only the transfer path profile including the input device described in the input device of the already selected user profile is selectively displayed.
[0124]
When a print execution button 1703 is pressed, a copy function using this transfer path profile is executed. According to the transfer path profile of FIG. 13, the network printer 104 selects 172.16.10.2 (network scanner) written in input-address: as an input device, and reads a read command written in Input-command :. A request for reading is made by sending it to the input device.
[0125]
When the network scanner 102 receives the reading command, it reads the original with the paper size designated as a reply, and transmits data to the network printer 104.
[0126]
According to the above embodiment, the input / output device has requested the management server 103 to transfer all transfer path profiles, but when a plurality of input / output devices are connected to the network 101, There may be a transfer path profile that does not use a certain device, and it may be useless to store the information in the RAM of the device. Therefore, it is conceivable that the transfer path profile transfer request is expanded and the command is expanded so that only transfer path profiles related to the own machine are transferred.
[0127]
FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a command sentence obtained by extending the transfer path profile transfer request command of FIG. “MATCH Input-address = 172.6.10.2” indicates that a request for a transfer path profile conforming to 172.16.10.2 is made as the address of the input device.
[0128]
The same applies to the user profile, and it is possible to extend the command so that only the user profile related to the user's machine is transferred.
[0129]
FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a command sentence obtained by extending the user profile transfer request command of FIG. The part of “MATCH Input-address = 172.6.10.2” indicates that a user profile request conforming to 172.16.10.2 as an input device address is being requested.
[0130]
According to the above embodiment, it is assumed that the transfer path profile and the user profile are all stored in the management server. However, in order to enable printing even when the management server is not activated, each device The transfer path profile and the user profile may be registered in the non-volatile memory. Furthermore, each device may have a function equivalent to that of the management server.
[0131]
Further, according to the above embodiment, it is assumed that the user profile is selected on the operation panel of the device and the password is input, but the nonvolatile storage medium (for example, magnetic card, The user profile is stored in an IC card or the like, and the user profile and password selection / input procedure is executed by attaching the user profile to a storage medium reading interface provided in each device. Also good.
[0132]
Also, according to the above embodiment, when a user profile is used, whether or not the user can be used is determined from the user name, but the group information included in the user profile is checked and used for each specific group. Possible devices may be set.
[0133]
The present invention can be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, a printer, etc.), and each of the devices (for example, a copying machine, a facsimile device, etc.) composed of a single device. May apply to function.
[0134]
Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium storing software program codes for implementing the functions of the above-described embodiments to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium. Needless to say, this can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the. 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.
[0135]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.
[0136]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) operating on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0137]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0138]
When the present invention is applied to the storage medium, the storage medium stores program codes corresponding to the flowcharts described above.
[0139]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, it is possible to provide a multi-function system and a data transfer method thereof that can save a user's operation while preventing an increase in cost and can be set flexibly for each individual.
[0140]
In other words, data is transferred from a network scanner to a network printer, and the transfer path profile management server has complicated configuration information for realizing copying, and the network scanner simply selects which transfer path profile to use. Functions are possible, and it is possible to reduce costs because it does not require an operation panel that gives convenience to the user and makes the scanner perform complicated operation designation. Further, by providing the user information as a user profile to the management server and selecting the user profile prior to selecting the transfer path profile, it is possible to limit the devices that can be used for each user.
[0141]
In addition, data can be transferred from a network scanner to a network printer, complicated configuration information for realizing copying can be stored in the management server as a transfer path profile, and the network printer can be used to select which transfer path profile to use. A copy function is possible, which gives the user convenience and eliminates the need for an operation panel that allows the printer to perform complicated operation specifications, thus enabling cost reductions and providing user information as a user profile to the management server, By selecting a user profile prior to selecting a transfer path profile, it is possible to limit the devices that can be used for each user.
[0142]
In addition, when a large number of transfer path profiles and user profiles are registered in the management server, each device can transfer only the transfer path profiles and user profiles that are relevant to itself, thereby reducing the load on the network. The RAM of the device for storing the transfer path profile and the user profile can be saved, and the cost can be reduced.
[0143]
In addition, since each device stores the transfer path profile and user profile in the non-volatile memory, even if the management server is not running, printing can be performed using the transfer path profile and user profile information built into the device. It becomes.
[0144]
In addition, since the user profile and password are stored in the portable non-volatile memory, the user profile can be selected and the password can be input simply by inserting the non-volatile memory.
[0145]
In addition, not only the user name but also a device that can be used in units of groups to which the user belongs can be set, thereby enabling efficient user management.
[0146]
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a conceptual schematic diagram illustrating a configuration example of a multifunction system according to an embodiment.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a network scanner.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a network printer.
FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of a management server.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device profile in a network scanner.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device profile in a network printer.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a device profile acquisition unit of the management server.
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a device profile acquisition command.
FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a device profile supply unit in the input device and the output device.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a transfer path profile.
FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a transfer path profile supply unit in the management server.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a transfer path profile request command.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a transfer path profile transfer command.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a transfer path profile acquisition unit in an input device and an output device.
FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an operation panel in a network scanner.
FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating an example of display contents on a liquid crystal panel after a user profile is selected.
FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating an appearance of an operation panel in a network printer.
18 is a diagram showing a command sentence obtained by extending the transfer path profile transfer request command of FIG. 12. FIG.
FIG. 19 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a device profile transfer instruction.
FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a user profile.
FIG. 21 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a user profile supply unit in the management server.
FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a user profile request command.
FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an exemplary structure of a user profile transfer command.
FIG. 24 is a flowchart illustrating an operation example of a user profile acquisition unit in an input device and an output device.
FIG. 25 is a diagram showing the display content of the liquid crystal panel when the right key of the cross panel is pressed once.
FIG. 26 is a diagram showing display contents on the liquid crystal panel after the user profile is selected.
FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a command sentence obtained by extending the user profile transfer request command of FIG. 22;

Claims (22)

In a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by a combination of input devices, output devices and information processing devices connected to a network,
The information processing apparatus is
Device information acquisition means for acquiring device information of each of the input device and the output device;
Transfer path information generating means for generating transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device based on the device information acquired by the device information acquiring means ;
Transfer path information supply means for supplying the transfer path information generated by the transfer path information generation means to the input device or the output device ;
A combination of the input device and the output device has user information generating means for generating user information associated with a user ;
The input device or the output device is
Device information supply means for transmitting information unique to the device to the information processing apparatus ;
Transfer path information acquisition means for acquiring the transfer path information from the information processing apparatus ;
User information acquisition means for acquiring the user information from the information processing apparatus;
A transfer path information selecting means for selecting one from among the one or more transfer path information the transfer path information acquisition means has acquired,
User information selection means for selecting one of one or more pieces of user information acquired by the user information acquisition means;
And a data transfer means for transferring data from the input device to the output device in accordance with the selected transfer path information and user information .   2. The multi-function system according to claim 1, wherein the transfer path information generating means includes transfer path information setting means for setting the transfer path information. The transfer path information acquisition means acquires transfer path information related to each device from the information processing apparatus ;
2. The multi-function system according to claim 1, wherein the transfer path information supply means supplies transfer path information related to the requested device in accordance with the transfer request of each device. The input device or the output device is
Transfer path information storage means for storing the transfer path information in a database;
2. The multi-function system according to claim 1, wherein the transfer path selection unit selects one from one or more transfer path information stored in the transfer path information storage unit of each device. In a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by a combination of input devices, output devices and information processing devices connected to a network,
The information processing apparatus is
Device information acquisition means for acquiring device information of each of the input device and the output device;
Transfer path information generating means for generating transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device based on the device information acquired by the device information acquiring means ;
Transfer path information supply means for supplying the transfer path information generated by the transfer path information generation means to the input device ;
A combination of the input device and the output device has user information generating means for generating user information associated with a user ;
Each of the input device and the output device is
Device information supply means for transmitting the device-specific information to the information processing apparatus ;
The input device is
Transfer path information acquisition means for acquiring the transfer path information from the information processing apparatus ;
User information acquisition means for acquiring the user information from the information processing apparatus;
A transfer path information selecting means for selecting one from among the one or more transfer path information the transfer path information acquisition means has acquired,
User information selection means for selecting one of one or more pieces of user information acquired by the user information acquisition means;
According to the transfer path information and user information the selected multifunction system characterized by an output unit for causing an output operation to the output device.   6. The multi-function system according to claim 5, wherein the transfer path information generating means includes transfer path information setting means for setting the transfer path information. Transfer path information acquisition means possessed by the input device acquires transfer path information related to the input device from the information processing device ,
6. The multi-function system according to claim 5, wherein the transfer path information supply means of the information processing apparatus supplies the transfer path information related to the requested device in accordance with a transfer request of the input device. . The input device is
Transfer path information storage means for storing the transfer path information in a database;
6. The multi-function system according to claim 5, further comprising transfer path information selection means for selecting one of one or more transfer path information stored in the transfer path information storage means of the input device. In a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by a combination of input devices, output devices and information processing devices connected to a network,
The information processing apparatus is
Device information acquisition means for acquiring device information of each of the input device and the output device;
Transfer path information generating means for generating transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device based on the device information acquired by the device information acquiring means ;
Transfer path information supply means for supplying the transfer path information generated by the transfer path information generation means to the output device ;
A combination of the input device and the output device has user information generating means for generating user information associated with a user ;
Each of the input device and the output device is
Device information supply means for transmitting the device-specific information to the information processing apparatus ;
The output device is
Transfer path information acquisition means for acquiring the transfer path information from the information processing apparatus ;
User information acquisition means for acquiring the user information from the information processing apparatus;
A transfer path information selecting means for selecting one from among the one or more transfer path information the transfer path information acquisition means has acquired,
User information selection means for selecting one of one or more pieces of user information acquired by the user information acquisition means;
According to the transfer path information and user information the selected multifunction system characterized by having an input means for causing the input operation to the input device.   10. The multi-function system according to claim 9, wherein the transfer path information generation means includes transfer path information setting means for setting the transfer path information. Transfer path information acquisition means of the output device acquires transfer path information related to the output device from the information processing device ,
10. The multi-function system according to claim 9, wherein the transfer path information supply means of the information processing apparatus supplies the transfer path information related to the requested device in accordance with a transfer request of the output device. . The output device is
Transfer path information storage means for storing the transfer path information in a database;
10. The multi-function system according to claim 9, wherein the transfer path information selection unit selects one of one or more transfer path information stored in the transfer path information storage unit of the output device. In a multi-function system that configures a copy function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device.
Device information acquisition means for acquiring device information unique to each of the input device and the output device;
Transfer path information generating means for generating transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device based on the acquired device information;
The transfer path information the generated, a transfer path information supplying means for supplying in accordance with the transfer request of the input device or the output device,
A multifunction system comprising: data transfer means for transferring data from the input device to the output device in accordance with the supplied transfer path information.   14. The multi-function system according to claim 13, wherein the transfer path information generating means includes transfer path information setting means for setting the transfer path information.   14. The multifunction system according to claim 13, further comprising transfer path information selection means for selecting one of the one or more transfer path information supplied by the transfer path information supply means.   14. The multi-function system according to claim 13, wherein the transfer path information supply means supplies the transfer path information related to the requested device in accordance with the transfer request of each device. A data transfer method in a multi-function system that configures a copying function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device,
Based on device information unique to each of the input device and the output device, generate transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device ,
A data transfer method, comprising: transferring data from the input device to the output device in accordance with transfer path information supplied in accordance with a transfer request from the input device or the output device.   18. The data transfer method according to claim 17, wherein the generation of the transfer path information includes a step of setting the transfer path information.   18. The data transfer method according to claim 17, further comprising a step of selecting one of the supplied one or more transfer path information.   18. The data transfer method according to claim 17, wherein in the supply of the transfer path information, the transfer path information related to the requested device is supplied in accordance with the transfer request of each device. A storage medium for storing a data transfer control program in a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device,
The data transfer control program is
A module for acquiring device information unique to each of the input device and the output device;
A module that stores the acquired device information in a database;
A module for generating transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device , based on the stored device information;
A module for storing the generated transfer path information in a database;
And a module that supplies the stored transfer path information according to a transfer request of the input device or the output device. A storage medium for storing a data transfer control program in a multi-function system that constitutes a copying function by transferring data from an input device connected to a network to an output device,
The data transfer control program is
A module for transmitting own device-specific information,
A module for acquiring transfer path information indicating a path for transferring data from the input device to the output device including the stored self device ;
A module for selecting one of the acquired one or more transfer path information;
A storage medium comprising: a module for transferring data between the own device and another device in accordance with the selected transfer path information.

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