JP4683879B2 - User interface customization method, user interface customization device, user interface setting replication method, user interface setting replication device, and computer-readable medium - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a user interface customization method, a user interface customization device, a user interface setting copying method, a user interface setting copying device, and a computer readable medium for customizing a graphical user interface in a multifunction peripheral.

  A multifunction peripheral (MFP) is a single device capable of executing a plurality of functions. Many multifunction devices are configured to function as printers, scanners, fax machines, and copiers. A multi-function device can execute many functions, and is more effective than a single device that executes each function. Further, since it is generally cheaper to buy a single multifunction device than to purchase a single printer, scanner, fax machine, and copier, the consumer selects the multifunction device. Because of its convenience and multifunctionality, multifunction devices are often used in the workplace.

  In fact, in many companies, multifunction devices are used as part of daily corporate activities. For example, a report is printed, copied and transmitted, and an image in the report is captured using a multi-function peripheral. From the point of view of business activities, multifunction devices are beneficial because they allow for cost savings and more efficient and productive employee use.

  Normally, the user interacts with the multifunction device via a graphical user interface (GUI) displayed on the multifunction device. The GUI provides a mechanism that allows the user to input one or more processes to be executed by the multifunction peripheral. For example, the GUI displays one or more digitally projected screens with buttons and other mechanisms that allow the user to specify one or more processes to be performed by the multifunction device, such as a pressure sensitive touchpad screen. You may make it do.

  It is desirable to customize the MFP GUI to adapt to the specific needs of the user. For example, the user may want to customize the MFP GUI to include graphics such as a company logo, or may want to change the appearance of the GUI. Alternatively, the user may desire to customize the operation of the multifunction device to change the functions supported by the multifunction device. However, once the multifunction device is placed at the user, only the manufacturer of the multifunction device can customize the GUI. That is, it is impossible for the user to customize the GUI display and operation of the multifunction device.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems, and provides a user interface customization method, a user interface customization device, a user interface setting replication method, a user interface setting replication device, and a computer for customizing a graphical user interface in a multifunction peripheral. A readable medium is provided.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is a method for customizing one or more user interfaces, and transmits user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces to one or more multifunction devices. And maintaining scheduling data defining a start time indicating a time for updating each of the one or more user interfaces in order to reflect the user interface specification data, the one or more user interfaces Are displayed on one of the one or more multifunction devices.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a customization method for one or more user interfaces, wherein user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces is stored in one or more multifunction devices. Transmitting the user interface specification data to the one or more user interfaces of the one or more MFPs, and transmitting usage restriction data defining the number of times of use, the one or more user interfaces Are displayed on one of the one or more multifunction devices.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a computer readable medium having one or more instruction sequences for customizing one or more user interfaces, wherein the one or more processors execute the one or more instruction sequences. Transmitting the user interface specification data defining the desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the one or more multifunction devices, and reflecting the user interface specification data to the one or more processors, Maintaining scheduling data defining a start time indicating a time for updating each of the one or more user interfaces, wherein each of the one or more user interfaces is displayed on one of the one or more multifunction devices. It is characterized by that.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a computer readable medium having one or more instruction sequences for customizing one or more user interfaces, wherein the one or more processors execute the one or more instruction sequences. Transmitting to the one or more processors user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the one or more multifunction peripherals; and sending the user interface specification data to the one or more composites Transmitting usage restriction data defining the number of times of use applied to the one or more user interfaces of the machine, and each of the one or more user interfaces is displayed on one of the one or more multifunction machines. It is characterized by that.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention is a customization apparatus for one or more user interfaces comprising a processor and a computer-readable medium accessible to the processor and having one or more instruction sequences. The one or more instruction sequences, when executed by the processor, send to the processor one or more multifunction peripherals with user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces; Maintaining scheduling data defining a start time indicating a time to update each of the one or more user interfaces to reflect the user interface specification data, wherein each of the one or more user interfaces One or more composites Characterized in that it is displayed in one of the.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problems, the present invention is a customization apparatus for one or more user interfaces comprising a processor and a computer-readable medium accessible to the processor and having one or more instruction sequences. Sending the user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the processor when the one or more instruction sequences are executed by the processor; Transmitting usage restriction data that defines the number of times of use of the user interface specification data to be applied to the one or more user interfaces of the one or more multifunction peripherals, wherein each of the one or more user interfaces is the 1 Displayed on one of these multifunction devices The features.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is a customization apparatus for one or more user interfaces, and user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces is stored in one or more multifunction peripherals. Means for transmitting and means for maintaining scheduling data defining a start time indicating a time for updating each of the one or more user interfaces to reflect the user interface specification data, wherein the one or more users Each of the interfaces is displayed on one of the one or more multifunction devices.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention is a customization apparatus for one or more user interfaces, and user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the one or more user interfaces is stored in one or more multifunction peripherals. Means for transmitting, and means for transmitting use restriction data defining the number of times of use for applying the user interface specification data to the one or more user interfaces of the one or more MFPs, the one or more user interfaces Are displayed on one of the one or more multifunction devices.

  According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a technique for scheduling a customization process for a graphical user interface. User interface specification data and scheduling data are stored, and the user interface specification data and scheduling data are transmitted in order to update the graphical user interface in the multi-function peripheral to reflect the user interface specification data. User interface specification data is data defining the desired display and behavior of one or more graphical user interfaces, and scheduling data is a start indicating when each of the one or more user interfaces is updated to reflect the user interface specification data. This data defines the time.

  According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a technique for associating one or more graphical user interfaces with usage restrictions. User interface specification data, which is data that defines desired display and operation of one or more user interfaces, is stored together with usage restriction data that defines the number of times that the user interface specification data is applied to one or more user interfaces. In order to associate usage restrictions with a graphical user interface displayed on one or more multifunction devices, user interface specification data and usage restriction data are transmitted from the device to one or more multifunction devices.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention is a method for customizing a user interface of a multifunction peripheral, and transmits user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the user interface from a wireless device to the multifunction peripheral. And receiving at the wireless device result data from the multi-function peripheral that defines whether the user interface has been updated to reflect the user interface specification data.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention is a method for copying a setting of a source user interface to one or more target user interfaces, and a user interface for defining display and operation of the source user interface in a source multifunction peripheral Extracting specification data; transmitting the user interface specification data to one or more target multifunction peripherals including the target user interface; and reflecting the user interface specification data to the one or more target user interfaces And a step of updating.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a computer-readable medium having one or more instruction sequences for customizing a user interface of a multi-function peripheral, wherein the one or more processors execute the one or more instruction sequences. Transmitting, to the one or more processors, user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the user interface from a wireless device to the multi-function peripheral; and the user interface reflects the user interface specification data And receiving the result data from the multi-function peripheral that defines whether it has been updated or not at the wireless device.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the present invention is a computer-readable medium having one or more instruction sequences for copying settings of a source user interface to one or more target user interfaces. The execution of the one or more instruction sequences includes: extracting, to the one or more processors, user interface specification data that defines display and operation of the source user interface in a source multifunction peripheral; Transmitting to one or more target multifunction devices including the target user interface; and updating the one or more target user interfaces to reflect the user interface specification data. To.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a user interface customization apparatus for a multi-function peripheral that includes a processor and a computer-readable medium accessible to the processor and having one or more instruction sequences. The one or more instruction sequences, when executed by the processor, transmitting to the processor user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the user interface from a wireless device to the multifunction device; and Receiving at the wireless device result data from the multifunction device that defines whether the interface has been updated to reflect the user interface specification data.

  In order to solve the above problems, the present invention provides a source user interface setting comprising a processor and a computer-readable medium accessible to the processor and having one or more instruction sequences. An apparatus for copying to an interface, wherein the one or more instruction sequences, when executed by the processor, extract to the processor user interface specification data defining display and operation of the source user interface in a source multifunction peripheral. Transmitting the user interface specification data to one or more target multifunction devices including the target user interface; and reflecting the user interface specification data to reflect the user interface specification data Characterized in that and a step of updating the face.

  In order to solve the above-described problems, the present invention provides a user interface customization device for a multifunction device, which transmits user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of the user interface from a wireless device to the multifunction device. And means for receiving at the wireless device result data from the multi-function peripheral that defines whether the user interface has been updated to reflect the user interface specification data.

  In order to solve the above-described problem, the present invention is an apparatus for copying settings of a source user interface to one or more target user interfaces, the user interface defining the display and operation of the source user interface in the source multifunction peripheral Means for extracting specification data; means for transmitting the user interface specification data to one or more target multifunction peripherals each including the target user interface; and the one or more target user interfaces for reflecting the user interface specification data And updating means.

  According to one aspect of the invention, there is provided a technique for transmitting user interface specification data defining a desired display and operation of a graphical user interface from an apparatus to one or more multifunction devices. The graphical user interface is updated to reflect user interface specification data. Thereafter, result data defining whether the user interface has been updated to reflect the user interface specification data is received from the multifunction device to the apparatus.

  According to another aspect of the invention, there is provided a technique for extracting first user interface specification data that defines display and operation of a source graphical user interface in a first multifunction device. The second user interface specification data is transmitted to one or more second multifunction devices each including a target user interface. The second user interface specification data is configured to update one or more target user interfaces to reflect the first user interface specification data.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to provide a user interface customizing method, a user interface customizing device, a user interface setting duplicating method, a user interface setting duplicating device, and a computer readable medium for customizing a graphical user interface in a multifunction peripheral.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings.

  A method and apparatus for customizing a user interface on a multifunction peripheral (MFP) is described. In the following description, numerous specific details are given to provide a thorough understanding of the present invention. However, it will be apparent that the invention may be practiced without these specific details. In other instances, well-known structures and devices are shown in block form in order to avoid unnecessarily obscuring the present invention.

[Configuration overview]
FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a customizable multi-function peripheral system 100 according to one embodiment of the present invention. 1A includes a multifunction device 110, a device 120, and a communication link.

  The multifunction machine 110 as used herein is widely used to refer to any multifunction machine capable of performing more than one function: a printer, a scanner, a fax machine, and a copier. For simplicity of illustration, FIG. 1B shows two multifunction devices 110A and 110B, but in other embodiments of the present invention, one multifunction device (as shown in FIG. 1A) or two or more multifunction devices. Any number of multifunction machines including machines may be used.

  The multi function device 110 includes a GUI 112, an update utility 114, a storage unit 116, and a network interface 118. The GUI 112 as used herein is widely used to refer to any graphical user interface displayed on the multifunction device that allows the user to specify operations to be performed by the multifunction device. For example, FIGS. 2 and 3 show display examples displayed on a multi-function peripheral according to an embodiment of the present invention. The update utility 114 as used herein refers to any computer device or application capable of updating the GUI displayed on the multifunction peripheral by the user interface specification data stored in the storage unit 116. Widely used. The storage unit 116 as used herein is widely used to refer to any mechanism capable of storing electronic information such as user interface specification data. An illustrative storage unit 116 that is not intended to be limiting includes a database, memory, and a file system. The network interface 118 as used herein is widely used to refer to any interface that allows communication between the multifunction device and the communication link 130.

  The device 120 as used herein is widely used to refer to any computer device capable of communicating with a multifunction peripheral. Exemplary devices 120 that are not intended to be limiting include laptop computers, cell phones, PDAs (Personal Digital Assistants), and wireless devices. For ease of explanation, FIGS. 1A and 1B each show one device 120, but in other embodiments of the invention, any number of devices including one device 120 or more than one device 120 may be used. It may be used.

  The communication link 130 may be implemented by any medium or mechanism that provides data exchange between the multifunction peripheral 110 and the device 120. Although not intended to be limiting, examples of communication links 130 include LAN (Local Area Network), WAN (Wide Area Network), Ethernet (registered trademark), the Internet, or one or more terrestrial, satellite or wireless links. Network.

[GUI setting on the MFP from the device]
FIG. 4 is a flowchart 400 illustrating functional steps for setting a GUI displayed on one or more multifunction peripherals 110 from the device 120 according to one embodiment of the present invention. In step 410, user interface specification data is received at device 120. The user interface specification data is data that defines a desired display and operation of the GUI displayed on the multifunction peripheral. The user interface specification data may specify all display screens and operations for each screen, or may describe the content of customization for the current GUI display and / or operation.

  FIG. 5 shows user interface specification data according to one embodiment. In the user interface specification data shown in FIG. 5, the user interface specification data 500 includes one or more destination addresses 510. The destination address 510 is an address of a multi-function peripheral that should receive user interface specification data having the destination address, such as an IP address. In other embodiments, additional elements may be included in the user interface specification data 500, as described below.

  In one embodiment, the device 120 may receive user interface specification data by uploading data from an external device such as a database or a multifunction peripheral, for example. In other embodiments, the device 120 may receive user interface specification data from a user who has manually configured the device 120 in which user interface specification data is stored. For example, a user may manually set user interface specification data on the device 120 using a text editor, and then save the user interface specification data so that the device accepts the user interface specification data. Good. In another embodiment, the device 120 (a) uploads user interface specification data from the outside, (b) stores the user interface specification data in the device 120, and (c) by a user operating the device 120. As set, the user interface specification data may be received by storing a customization process for the user interface specification data. After execution of step 410, the process proceeds to step 412.

  In step 412, user interface specification data is checked at device 120. In one embodiment, step 412 is implemented by applying one or more rules to the user interface specification data to determine whether the GUI display and operation defined by the user interface specification data is valid. For example, this rule may be defined to check the size and placement of the button to determine if the button can be properly displayed on the GUI. One or more rules check any display element or behavior of the GUI. If the check performed in step 412 determines that there is a problem with the user interface specification data, the user may be given an opportunity to correct the problem. For example, if a problem is detected, the process proceeds to step 410 where the user can send the modified user interface specification data or change the current user interface specification data via the device 120. You may be able to solve the problem. After checking the user interface specification data, the process proceeds to step 414. In one embodiment, step 412 may be optional.

  In step 414, user interface specification data is transmitted to the multifunction device 110. The user interface specification data is transmitted to the first MFP specified by one or more destination addresses 510 in the user interface specification data that has not yet received the user interface specification data. For example, if there are three multifunction peripherals specified by the one or more destination addresses 510, the first multifunction peripheral specified by the destination address 510 may be connected to the user interface specification. If no data has been transmitted, user interface specification data will be transmitted in step 414. After execution of step 414, the process proceeds to step 416.

  In step 416, user interface specification data is received by the multifunction peripheral 110. The MFP network interface 118 receives the user interface specification data from the communication link 130. After execution of step 416 in the multifunction device, the process for the multifunction device proceeds to step 418.

  In step 418, the user interface specification data is checked in the multifunction device 110. In one embodiment, step 418 is implemented by applying one or more rules to the user interface specification data to determine whether the GUI display and operation as defined by the user interface specification data is valid. Is done. For example, in order to determine whether a button is appropriately displayed on the GUI, a rule for checking the size and arrangement of the button may be defined. Any display element or behavior of the GUI is checked by these one or more rules. If the check performed in step 418 determines that there is a problem with the user interface specification data, the user is given an opportunity to correct the problem. For example, if a problem is detected, the process returns to step 424 to notify the device 120 of the problem so that the user of the device 120 has an opportunity to correct the problem. After checking the user interface specification data in the multifunction machine, the process proceeds to step 420. In one embodiment, step 418 may be optional.

  In step 420, a GUI as defined by the user interface specification data is displayed on the multifunction device. In one embodiment, the update utility 114 updates the GUI displayed on the multifunction peripheral to reflect the received user interface specification data. In one embodiment, step 420 may be optional. After execution of step 420 in the multifunction machine, the process for the multifunction machine proceeds to step 422.

  In step 422, the user interface specification data is stored in the storage unit 116. In one embodiment, the update utility 114 may store user interface specification data in the storage unit 116. After execution of step 422 in the multifunction machine, the process for the multifunction machine proceeds to step 424.

  In step 424, a GUI update result reflecting the user interface specification data in the multifunction peripheral is transmitted to the device 120. For example, if the GUI is updated to reflect the user interface specification data without detecting a problem, a notification that no problem was detected during the GUI update in the multifunction peripheral is transmitted to the device 120 and detected. In the case of an error, an indication regarding what kind of problem has been detected during the GUI update in the MFP is transmitted to the device 120. After execution of step 424 in the multifunction machine, the process proceeds to step 426.

  In step 426, the device 120 determines whether the user interface specification data is to be transmitted to another multifunction device. When a plurality of MFPs are specified at one or more destination addresses 510 in the user interface specification data, each MFP specified by the one or more destination addresses 510 receives a copy of the user interface specification data. If a multifunction peripheral that has not yet received the user interface specification data is identified among the one or more destination addresses 510 of the user interface specification data, the process proceeds to step 414 and the user interface specification data is one or more destinations. The user interface specification data in the address 510 is transmitted to the next multifunction device that has not been received. If no further multifunction device to receive user interface specification data is indicated in one or more destination addresses 510, the process proceeds to step 430.

  In step 430, the update results of all the updated multifunction devices are displayed on the device 120. For example, when three multifunction devices are updated, the device 120 displays the update result of the GUI of each of these three multifunction devices.

  By following the steps shown in FIG. 4, it is possible to update the GUIs of a plurality of multifunction devices using the device 120. The sequence of steps shown in FIG. 4 is merely exemplary, and the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to the sequence of steps shown in FIG. That is, in other embodiments, steps may be omitted, steps executed in a different order, or parallel processing of steps. For example, in one embodiment, steps 412 and 418 are optional, and steps 420 and 422 may be performed in reverse order or in parallel.

[Replication of GUI related to first MFP to one or more second MFPs]
FIG. 6 is a flowchart 600 illustrating functional steps for replicating a GUI (duplicated GUI) for a source multifunction device to one or more target multifunction devices according to one embodiment of the invention. The functional steps shown in FIG. 6 are described with reference to FIG. 1B, which is a block diagram illustrating a customizable multifunction machine system having a source multifunction machine 110A and a target multifunction machine 110B. For example, the GUI 112 of the MFP 110A may be copied to the GUI 112 of the MFP 110B by using the process shown in FIG. For simplicity, only one target multifunction device is shown in FIG. 1B, but the functional steps shown in FIG. 6 may be performed with any number of target multifunction devices.

  In step 610, a process of copying the GUI of the source multifunction device to one or more target multifunction devices is started. In one embodiment, step 610 may be performed by setting a mechanism displayed on the source MFP 110A, such as pressing a copy button displayed on the GUI shown in FIGS. . In other embodiments, step 610 may be performed by setting the mechanism displayed on device 120. After execution of step 610, the process proceeds to step 612.

  In step 612, the addresses of one or more target multifunction devices are recorded. In one embodiment, step 612 may be performed by recording one or more IP addresses associated with each target multifunction device. FIG. 7 illustrates a GUI displayed on a multifunction device configured to receive an IP address associated with a target multifunction device according to one embodiment of the present invention. In another embodiment of the present invention, other types of address information in addition to the IP address are stored as long as the address information provides a method for indicating the location of the multifunction device so that subsequent communications are transmitted to the multifunction device. May be. After execution of step 612, the process proceeds to step 614.

  In step 614, the user interface specification data is transmitted to the target multifunction peripheral identified in step 612. When a plurality of target multifunction peripherals are identified in step 612, the user interface specification data is transmitted to the next target multifunction peripheral that has not yet received the duplicated GUI among those identified in step 612. In one embodiment, the position data specifying the position where step 610 has been executed is also transmitted to the multi-function peripheral specified in step 612, and the GUI duplication result can be sent back to the one executing step 610. For example, the location data may identify a particular source multifunction device or a particular device 120.

  The user interface specification data transmitted in step 614 is data defining the desired display and operation of the replicated GUI. When step 610 is started at the source multifunction device, the source multifunction device extracts user interface specification data for transmission. When step 610 is started in the device 120, (A) the source multifunction device transmits user interface specification data as described above, or (B) the device 120 can transmit user interface specification data as described above. The device 120 communicates with the source multifunction device to extract user interface specification data from the source multifunction device. After execution of step 614, the process proceeds to step 616.

  In step 616, user interface specification data is received by the target multifunction peripheral. After execution of step 616, the process proceeds to step 618.

  In step 618, the user interface specification data is checked at the target MFP. In one embodiment, step 618 is performed by applying one or more rules to the user interface specification data to determine whether the display and operation as defined by the user interface specification data is valid. May be. For example, a rule may be defined that checks the size and placement of the button to determine if the button is properly displayed on the GUI. Any one or more of these rules may check any display elements and behavior of the GUI. If the check performed in step 618 determines that there is a problem with the user interface specification data, the user may be given an opportunity to correct the problem. After the user interface specification data is checked in the multifunction peripheral, the process proceeds to step 620. In one embodiment, step 618 is optional.

  In step 620, a GUI as defined by the user interface specification data is displayed on the target multifunction device. In one embodiment, the update utility updates the GUI displayed on the target multifunction device to reflect the received user interface specification data. In one embodiment, step 620 is optional. After execution of step 620 in the multifunction device, the process for the multifunction device proceeds to step 622.

  In step 622, the user interface specification data is stored in the storage unit 116 of the target multifunction peripheral. In one embodiment, the update utility may store user interface specification data in the storage unit 116. After execution of step 622 in the target multifunction peripheral, the process for the multifunction peripheral proceeds to step 624.

  In step 624, the update result of the GUI for reflecting the user interface specification data in the target multifunction device is transmitted to the position specified by the position data transmitted to the multifunction device in step 614. For example, if the GUI has been copied to reflect the user interface specification data in the target multifunction device without any problem, a notification that there has been no problem in duplicating the GUI in the target multifunction device is, for example, that of the source multifunction device or the device 120. Sent to the location specified by the location data, otherwise sent to the location data such as the source multifunction device or device 120 about what problem occurred in the duplication of the GUI in the target multifunction device. Is done. After step 624 is executed in the multifunction machine, the process proceeds to step 626.

  In step 626, it is determined whether the user interface specification data should be transmitted to the other target multifunction device identified in step 612. If a target multifunction peripheral that has not yet received user interface specification data has been identified in step 612, the process proceeds to step 614, and the next target identified in step 612 that has not yet received user interface specification data. Sent to the multifunction device. On the other hand, if no further target multifunction device to receive the user interface specification data is indicated, the process proceeds to step 630.

  In step 630, the result of copying the GUI of the source multifunction device to all target multifunction devices identified in step 612 is displayed. For example, when three multifunction peripherals are identified as target multifunction peripherals in step 612, the GUI duplication results for each of the three multifunction peripherals are displayed. The result of step 630 is displayed at the same location where step 610 was executed. That is, when the process of FIG. 6 is started in the apparatus 120, the result of step 630 is displayed on the apparatus 120, and when the process of FIG. 6 is started in the source multifunction apparatus 110, the result of step 630 is the source multifunction apparatus 110. Is displayed.

  By following the steps shown in FIG. 6, the GUI related to the source MFP can be replicated to one or more target MFPs. However, the sequence of steps shown in FIG. 6 is merely an example, and the present invention is not limited to the sequence of steps shown in FIG. In other embodiments, omission of steps, execution of steps in a different order, or execution of parallel steps may be performed. For example, in one embodiment, step 618 is optional and steps 620 and 622 may be performed in reverse order or in parallel.

[Scheduled implementation of MFP GUI]
In the embodiment of the present invention, scheduling of customization processing of one or more GUIs displayed on the multifunction peripheral is performed. User interface specification data according to one embodiment is shown in FIG. In the user interface specification data 800 shown in FIG. 8, the user interface specification data 800 includes scheduling data 810. The scheduling data 810 is data defining a start time, and this start time is a time point when one or more GUIs are updated to reflect user interface specification data in which the scheduling data 810 exists. After updating the GUI to reflect the user interface specification data, the GUI may remain updated indefinitely, and need not be updated or changed again.

  In another embodiment of the present invention, the scheduling data 810 further has an end time, which is one or more GUIs to stop reflecting the user interface specification data 800 on which the scheduling data 810 exists. Indicates the point in time of updating. The start time and end time may be specified to an arbitrary degree. That is, the start time or end time may be specified up to a specific time, minute or second, such as 11:34:22 pm.

  In embodiments of the invention that utilize scheduling data 810 of user interface specification data 800, the steps shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 may be performed. Specifically, the user may specify the scheduling data 810 through a graphical user interface or similar mechanism, and store the user interface specification data 800 including the scheduling data 810 in the device 120 or the source MFP.

  In one embodiment, the MFP may receive the user interface specification data 800 before the start time indicated in the scheduling data 810. In such an embodiment, when the multifunction device receives the user interface specification data 800 including the scheduling data 810, the multifunction device may determine the current time. In one embodiment, after the determination of the current time, if this current time is at least as recent as the start time indicated in the scheduling data 810, the MFP GUI is user interface specification data 800 in which the scheduling data 810 exists. Updated to reflect In one embodiment, after determining the current time, if this current time is not as recent as the start time indicated in the scheduling data 810, the current time is periodically checked for a configurable period until this condition is met. The In one embodiment, if the current time is at least as recent as the end time specified in the scheduling data 810, the MFP GUI stops reflecting the user interface specification data 800 in which the scheduling data 810 exists. Will be updated.

  In other embodiments, user interface specification data 800 including scheduling data 810 may not be transmitted until the start time indicated in scheduling data 810. In such an embodiment, an apparatus or multi-function peripheral that stores user interface specification data 800 including scheduling data 810 may determine the current time. After the determination of the current time, if this current time is at least as recent as the start time indicated in the scheduling data 810, the user interface specification data is sent to the multifunction device. In one embodiment, reflecting the user interface specification data at one or more target addresses 510 of the user interface specification data if the current time is at least as recent as the end time specified in the scheduling data 810. A message to stop is sent to each multifunction device.

  In one embodiment, if the GUI displayed on the multifunction device is intended to stop reflecting the first group of user interface specification data, the GUI may be reconfigured to the previous one. . The storage unit 116 of the multifunction device may store one or more types of GUI. When updating the GUI, the previous type of GUI may be stored in the storage unit 116. Thus, when a message indicating that the MFP should stop reflecting the user interface specification data group by GUI is received, the previous type GUI is associated with the previous type GUI stored in the storage unit. It may be provided by loading user interface specification data.

[Specification of usage restrictions for GUI of MFP]
According to the embodiment of the present invention, it is possible to specify usage restrictions for one or more GUIs displayed on the multifunction peripheral. Due to the usage restriction, the number of times the user interface specification data is applied to one or more GUIs is defined. FIG. 9 shows user interface specification data according to one embodiment. In the user interface specification data 900 shown in FIG. 9, the user interface specification data 900 includes usage restriction data 910. Usage restriction data 910 is data indicating usage restrictions.

  In an embodiment of the present invention that utilizes user interface specification data usage restriction data 910, the steps shown in FIGS. 4 and 6 may be performed. Specifically, the user designates the usage restriction data 910 through a graphical user interface or a similar mechanism, and stores the user interface specification data 900 including the usage restriction data 910 in the device 120 or the source MFP. Good.

  In one embodiment, when the multifunction device receives the user interface specification data 900 including the usage restriction data 910, the multifunction device maintains the current number of times the GUI is used. The number of uses associated with the GUI corresponds to the number of unique operations executed through this GUI. For example, the first operation executed via the GUI is the first usage, and the tenth operation is the tenth usage. One operation may be an individual process executed by the multi-function peripheral such as a copy job or a print job.

  In one embodiment, if the current usage count is greater than or equal to the usage limit specified in the usage limit data 910, the GUI of the multifunction device is updated to stop reflecting the user interface specification data 900 in which the usage limit data 910 exists. The

  In one embodiment, when the GUI displayed on the multifunction device stops reflecting the first group of user interface specification data, the GUI may be reconfigured to the previous type. The storage unit 116 of the multifunction device may store one or more types of the GUI. Therefore, when a message is received indicating that the GUI should stop the MFP from reflecting the user interface specification data, the previous type of GUI is associated with the previous type of GUI stored in the storage unit. May be given by loading the specified user interface specification data.

[Implementation mechanism]
FIG. 10 is a block diagram that illustrates a computer system 1000 upon which an embodiment of the invention may be implemented. The computer system 1000 includes a bus 1002 or other communication mechanism for communicating information, and a processor 1004 connected to the bus 1002 for processing information. The computer system 1000 also has a main memory 1006 such as a RAM (Random Access Memory) or other dynamic storage device connected to the bus 1002 for storing information and instructions executed by the processor 1004. Main memory 1006 may also be used to store temporary variables and other intermediate information during execution of instructions by processor 1004. The computer system 1000 further includes a ROM (Read Only Memory) 1008 and other static storage devices connected to the bus 1002 for storing static information and instructions for the processor 1004. A storage device 1010 such as a magnetic disk or optical disk is provided for storing information and instructions and is connected to the bus 1002.

  The computer system 1000 may be connected via a bus 1002 to a display device 1012 such as a CRT (Cathode Ray Tube) for displaying information to a computer user. An input device 1014 having alphanumeric characters and other keys is connected to the bus 1002 for communicating information and command selections to the processor 1004. Other types of user input devices communicate direction information and command selections with the processor 1004 to control cursor movement on the display device 1012, eg, a cursor control device such as a mouse, trackball, cursor direction keys, etc. 1016. The input device typically has two degrees of freedom in two axes, a first axis (eg, x) and a second axis (eg, y) that allows for location on a plane. .

  The invention is related to the use of computer system 1000 for implementing the techniques described herein. According to one embodiment of the invention, these techniques are performed by computer system 1000 in response to processor 1004 executing a sequence of one or more instructions contained in main memory 1006. Such instructions may be read into main memory 1006 from other computer readable media such as storage device 1010. By executing the instruction sequence contained in main memory 1006, processor 1004 executes the processing steps described herein. In other embodiments, hardware circuitry may be utilized in lieu of or in conjunction with software instructions that implement the present invention. The present invention is not limited to any combination of hardware circuitry and software.

  The term “computer-readable medium” as used herein is used to refer to any medium that participates in providing instructions to processor 1004 for execution. Such a medium may take many forms, including but not limited to, non-volatile media, volatile media, and transmission media. Non-volatile media includes, for example, optical disks or magnetic disks such as storage device 1010. Volatile media includes dynamic memory, such as main memory 1006. Transmission media includes coaxial cables, copper wire, and optical fibers, including the wires that make up bus 1002. Transmission media can also take the form of acoustic or light waves, such as those generated during wireless and infrared communications.

  Typical forms of computer readable media include, for example, floppy disks, flexible disks, hard disks, magnetic tapes, any other magnetic medium, CD-ROM, any other optical medium, punch card, paper tape. , Any other physical medium having a hole pattern, RAM, PROM, EPROM, Flash-EPROM, any other memory chip, cartridge, carrier wave as described below, or any other computer readable medium Is included.

  Various forms of computer readable media may be utilized for executing one or more instruction sequences to processor 1004 for execution. For example, these instructions are initially transferred to the magnetic disk of the remote computer. The remote computer loads the instructions into its dynamic memory and sends the instructions over a telephone line by utilizing a modem. A local modem of computer system 1000 receives data over the telephone line and converts the received data into an infrared signal using an infrared transmitter. The infrared detector receives the data carried in the form of an infrared signal and places the data on the bus 1002 by a suitable circuit. Bus 1002 carries data to main memory 1006, from which processor 1004 extracts and executes instructions. The instructions received by the main memory 1006 may optionally be stored in the storage device 1010 before and after execution by the processor 1004.

  Computer system 1000 also has a communication interface connected to bus 1002. Communication interface 1018 provides a two-way communication connection to network link 1020 connected to local network 1022. For example, the communication interface 1018 may be an ISDN (Integrated Services Digital Network) card or modem that provides a data communication connection with a corresponding type of telephone line. As another example, the communication interface 1018 may be a LAN card that provides a data communication connection with a compatible LAN. In such implementations, communication interface 1018 sends and receives electrical, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams representing various types of information.

  Network link 1020 typically provides data communication to other data devices over one or more networks. For example, the network link 1020 may provide a connection to a host computer 1024 or data device via a local network 1022 operated by an Internet service provider (ISP) 1026. ISP 1026 provides data communication services through a global packet data communication network commonly referred to as the “Internet” 1028. Both the local network 1022 and the Internet 1028 utilize electronic, electromagnetic or optical signals that carry digital data streams. Signals over various networks that carry digital data to and from computer system 1000, signals on network link 1020, and signals over communication interfaces are examples of carrier waves that carry information.

  The computer system 1000 can transmit and receive data having program codes via a network, a network link 1020, and a communication interface 1018. In the Internet example, the server 1030 sends the requested code of the application program via the Internet 1028, ISP 1026, local network 1022 and communication interface 1018.

  The received code may be executed by processor 1004 when it is received and / or stored in storage device 1010 or other non-volatile storage device for later execution. Thus, the computer system 1000 may obtain application code in the form of a carrier wave.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to this specific embodiment, In the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim, various deformation | transformation are carried out. And changes are possible.

FIG. 1A is a block diagram illustrating a configurable multifunction peripheral system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 1B is a block diagram illustrating a customizable multi-function peripheral system according to a second embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 shows a first GUI displayed on the multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 3 shows a second GUI displayed on the multifunction machine according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing functional steps for setting a GUI related to the multifunction peripheral from the apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 5 is a first diagram illustrating user interface specification data according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing functional steps for copying a GUI related to the first multifunction device to one or more second multifunction devices according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 7 illustrates a GUI displayed on a multifunction device configured to receive an IP address associated with a target multifunction device according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 8 is a second diagram illustrating user interface specification data according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 9 is a third diagram illustrating user interface specification data according to an embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 10 is a block diagram illustrating a computer system in which one embodiment of the present invention is implemented.

Explanation of symbols

100 MFP system 110 MFP (MFP)
112 Graphical User Interface (GUI)
114 Update Utility 116 Storage Device 118 Network Interface 120 Device 130 Communication Link 1000 Computer System 1002 Bus 1004 Processor 1006 Main Memory 1010 Storage Device 1012 Display Device 1014 Input Device 1016 Cursor Control Device 1018 Communication Interface 1020 Network Link 1022 Local Network 1024 Host 1028 Internet 1030 server

Claims (22)

A method for customizing one or more user interfaces of a multifunction machine ,
And steps for transmitting the user interface specification data defining the view and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the MFP,
The multifunction peripheral, in order to reflect the user interface specification data, which defines the start time indicating the time of updating each of the one or more user interfaces, thus the scheduling data included in the user interface specification data, Displaying the one or more user interfaces based on the user interface specification data ;
A step of enabling the multifunction device to execute an operation defined by the user interface specification data via the display .   The customization method according to claim 1, wherein the user interface specification data is transmitted from a wireless device.   The customization method according to claim 1, wherein the user interface specification data is transmitted from a source multifunction peripheral.   The customization method according to claim 1, wherein the scheduling data is generated in response to an input sent from a user. The customization method according to claim 1, further comprising:
Comprising the steps of: before Kifuku if machine to determine the current time,
Step Before Kifuku if machine, if the is the current time from a recent least as the start time, to update the user interface displayed before Kifuku if machine to reflect the user interface specification data And a method comprising: A customization method according to claim 1 ,
The scheduling data has an end time defined,
Comprising the steps of: before Kifuku if machine to determine the current time,
Before Kifuku case machine, if the is the current time from a recent least as completion time specified in the scheduling data, to stop to reflect the user interface specification data, before Kifuku if machine wherein further comprising the step of updating the user interface displayed. The customization method according to claim 6, further comprising:
The user interface of the updated displayed before Kifuku case machine, method characterized in that it comprises the reconstituted steps to the previous user interface. A customized method of claim 1, wherein the user interface specification data and wherein the sent to occur at the same time before Kifuku case machine of the start time. The customization method according to claim 1, further comprising:
The scheduling data has an end time defined,
The method comprising the steps of: determine the current time,
If the is the current time from a recent least as completion time specified in the scheduling data, wherein the user interface specifications reflect to that data to the one or more user interface displayed before Kifuku if machine method characterized by comprising a stop Mel steps. The customization method according to claim 9, further comprising:
After stopping to movies the user interface specification data to the one or more user interface reaction, and characterized in that it comprises the step of reconfiguring the user interface has been using the display and the operation of the user interface previously how to. The customization method according to claim 1, further comprising:
A method comprising the step of transmitting, to the multi-function peripheral, usage restriction data that defines the number of times the user interface specification data is applied to the one or more user interfaces. A method for customizing one or more user interfaces of a multifunction machine ,
Transmitting the user interface specification data defining the view and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the MFP,
Transmitting a use restriction data defining the usage number of times to apply the user interface specification data to the one or more user interface before Kifuku case machine,
Displaying the one or more user interfaces based on the user interface specification data so that the multifunction device reflects the user interface specification data;
A step of enabling the multifunction device to execute an operation defined by the user interface specification data via the display.
Wherein a call.   13. The customization method according to claim 12, wherein the user interface specification data and the usage restriction data are transmitted from a wireless device.   13. The customization method according to claim 12, wherein the user interface specification data and the usage restriction data are transmitted from a source multifunction peripheral.   13. The customization method of claim 12, wherein the usage restriction data is generated at a wireless device prior to transmission in response to an input sent from a user. The customization method according to claim 12, further comprising:
Before Kifuku case machine, in response to the user interface specification data processing, comprising the step of updating the second type of the one or more user interface from the first type, the first type of the one or more users Different for each of the interfaces, the second type reflects the user interface specification data. The customization method according to claim 16, further comprising:
How prior Kifuku if machine, before the user interface displayed on Kifuku if machine, characterized in that it comprises the steps that determine the association has been utilized number to the user interface since the last update. The customization method according to claim 17, further comprising:
Before Kifuku case machine, if the number of times of use associated with the user interface displayed before Kifuku if machine from the last update exceeds a threshold specified in the usage restriction data, before Kifuku if machine A method comprising: returning a displayed user interface to a first type associated with the user interface.   13. The customization method according to claim 12, wherein the usage restriction data further defines the number of times the user interface specification data is applied to the one or more user interfaces for a specific user. . The customization method according to claim 12, further comprising:
A method comprising: transmitting scheduling data defining a start time indicating a time for updating each of the one or more user interfaces to reflect the user interface specification data to the multi-function peripheral . A device for customizing one or more user interfaces of a multifunction device,
Has means to transmit the user interface specification data defining the view and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the MFP,
Wherein the user interface specification data, to reflect the user interface specification data comprises scheduling data defining the start time indicating the time of updating each of the one or more user interfaces, the multifunction machine, the scheduling data accordingly customize wherein based on the user interface specification data, the display of the one or more user interface, via the display, wherein the user interface specification data is executable operations for defining apparatus. A device for customizing one or more user interfaces of a multifunction device,
It means for transmitting the user interface specification data defining the view and operation of the one or more user interfaces to the MFP,
And means for transmitting the use restriction data defining the usage number of times to apply the user interface specification data to the one or more user interface before Kifuku case machine,
The user interface specification data includes scheduling data that defines a start time indicating a time for updating each of the one or more user interfaces in order to reflect the user interface specification data. And displaying the one or more user interfaces based on the user interface specification data, and enabling an operation defined by the user interface specification data to be executed via the display .

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