CN101241500A

CN101241500A - Network device, image forming device, and data searching method

Info

Publication number: CN101241500A
Application number: CNA2008100086952A
Authority: CN
Inventors: 中村光男; 杜小军; 铃木治; 横山圣
Original assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Current assignee: Ricoh Co Ltd
Priority date: 2007-02-08
Filing date: 2008-02-05
Publication date: 2008-08-13
Also published as: JP2008217750A

Abstract

A network device is disclosed that enables simple searching and acquisition of control data for an external device. The network device is connected to the external device through a network and performs data communications with the external device through a HTTP protocol. The network device includes a storage unit configured to store control data of the network device; a searching unit configured to retrieve predetermined data from the control data based on a search request received from the external device; and a displaying information creation unit configured to create one or more of HTML data, XML data, and RSS data for displaying search results based on data obtained by the searching unit.

Description

Network equipment, image processing system and data search method

Technical field

The present invention relates to network equipment, image processing system and data search method.

Background technology

In recent years, not only general information handling system, and the various devices that are installed on the multi-function peripheral device (MFP) also are connected to other computing machines by Local Area Network or other networks, and use and control by these networks.

To being used to use or control the system of the device that is connected with other external device (ED)s by network, carried out the exploitation of many types.

For example, Japanese laid-open patent application 2006-323610 has disclosed and has been used to external network device to show with the XML form to be stored in the nearest control data in the image processing apparatus or the system of other information, and it meets RSS (site summary/rich site summary) file standard.

In this technology, the control data that image processing apparatus in response to the RQ cycle ground of external network device, alternately will be stored in the image processing apparatus is redeveloped into the XML data that meet the RSS file standard, and the XML data storage is arrived specified database.In addition, obtain by the RSS reader and the RSS file of display image treating apparatus in the external network device of message pick-up side, thus the control data in the display image treating apparatus on the network equipment externally, and this image processing apparatus shows side in information.

Yet top technology only allows by using the control data of URI (unified resource identifier) general-purpose accessing specified format, but is difficult from the information that control data extracted and obtained to satisfy specified rule.

Summary of the invention

The present invention can solve one or more problems of correlation technique.

The preferred embodiments of the present invention can provide network equipment, image processing system and data search method, and it can and obtain control data from the external device (ED) simple search.

According to a first aspect of the invention, provides network equipment, be connected to external device (ED), and by the data communication of http protocol execution with external device (ED), this network equipment comprises by network:

Storage unit, configuration is used for the control data of storage networking device;

Search unit, configuration are used for extracting predetermined data based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED) from control data; And

The display message creating unit, configuration is used to create one or more of html data, XML data and RSS data, is used for the data presentation Search Results that obtains based on by search unit.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises output unit, and configuration is used for visually exporting the data that obtained by search unit.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises: transmitting element, dispose the instruction that is used to send the Search Results that is obtained by search unit that is used in response to receiving from external device (ED), the device of appointment during the transmission Search Results extremely instructs.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises the server data search unit, and configuration is used for carrying out data search based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED) by the external search server that is connected by network.The display message creating unit is further created one or more in html data, XML data and the RSS data, is used for the data presentation Search Results that obtains based on by the server data search unit.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises:

The server data acquiring unit, configuration is used for obtaining ferret out information from the external search server, and described ferret out information is identified for the data of designated external search server as ferret out.

Search unit extracts predetermined data based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED) from ferret out information.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises:

Server data administrative unit, configuration are used in response to the duplicate instructions that receives from external device (ED) in the data of network equipment registration designated external search server as ferret out.

Preferably, in network equipment, in response to from the instruction of the output unit standard of network equipment by using the external search server, output unit is visually exported the data that obtained by the server data search unit, described output unit standard instruction specify to be output to device.

Preferably, in network equipment, the display message creating unit is created one or more of html data, XML data and RSS data, is used to impel external device (ED) inputted search request msg.

Preferably, in network equipment, the control data that is stored in storage unit comprises one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address date.

Preferably, in network equipment, the data that obtained by search unit comprise one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address date.

Preferably, this network equipment further comprises:

Authority information receiving element, configuration are used for receiving user right information from the external search server.

The user right information of each control data part correlation connection of cell stores and network equipment, described user right information allows to extract corresponding control information by the user, and

Search unit is based on the extracting section tentation data of the searching request that receives from external device (ED) from the control data that is stored in storage unit, and the user right information that is received by the authority information receiving element allows the user to extract the described part of control data.

According to a second aspect of the invention, provides image processing system, be connected to external device (ED), and by the data communication of http protocol execution with external device (ED), this image processing system comprises by network:

Storage unit, configuration is used for the control data that memory image forms device;

According to a third aspect of the invention we, data search method is provided, be used in network equipment with the storage unit that is used for storage control data, this network equipment is connected to external device (ED) by network, and by the data communication of http protocol execution with external device (ED), this data search method comprises:

Search step extracts predetermined data based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED) from control data; And

The display message foundation step, one or more of establishment html data, XML data and RSS data are used for based on the data presentation Search Results by the search unit acquisition.

Preferably, search step comprises the output step, visually exports the data that obtained by search unit.

Preferably, data search method further comprises:

Forwarding step in response to the instruction that receives from the external device (ED) that is used to send the Search Results that is obtained by search unit, sends the device of Search Results appointment to the instruction.

According to embodiments of the invention, may carry out obtaining of data search and control data simply from external device (ED).

These and other purpose of the present invention, feature and advantage will become apparent from the following detailed description of the preferred embodiment that provides with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Description of drawings

Fig. 1 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the universal architecture of the information search system that comprises network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 2 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the hardware configuration of the network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 3 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the software configuration of the network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 4 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the functional structure of the network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 5 is the chart that illustrates according to first example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention;

Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B are the process flow diagrams that is illustrated in the details of the operation of information search system 1 in first example;

Fig. 7 illustrates the chart of XML document of describing the search engine of network equipment according to present embodiment;

Fig. 8 is the chart that illustrates according to the screen picture of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment;

Fig. 9 is the chart that illustrates according to the registration of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment;

Figure 10 is the chart that illustrates according to second example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 11 A and Figure 11 B are the process flow diagrams that is illustrated in the details of the operation of information search system 1 in second example;

Figure 12 is the chart that illustrates according to the automatic detection of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment;

Figure 13 is the chart that the html data of creating according to the Search Results of present embodiment is shown;

Figure 14 illustrates according to the chart of present embodiment based on the RSS data of Search Results establishment;

Figure 15 is the chart of first example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 16 is the chart of second example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 17 is the chart of the 3rd example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 18 is the chart of the 4th example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 19 is the block diagram that the functional structure of network equipment according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown;

Figure 20 is the chart of example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 21 is the block diagram of functional structure that the network equipment of a third embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown;

Figure 22 is the block diagram of universal architecture that the information search system that comprises network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown;

Figure 23 is the block diagram of hardware configuration that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown;

Figure 24 is the block diagram of software configuration that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown;

Figure 25 is the block diagram of functional structure that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown;

Figure 26 is the chart that illustrates according to first example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B are the charts that open search data is shown, and this opening search data is to describe the XML document of search engine;

Figure 28 is the process flow diagram of details that the operation of network equipment in the present example is shown;

Figure 29 is stored in the form that is used for Analysis of X ML document in the multi-function peripheral device 10;

Figure 30 is the chart that illustrates according to second example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention;

Figure 31 is the process flow diagram of details that the operation of network equipment in the present example is shown;

Figure 32 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to first example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction;

Figure 33 is the chart that illustrates when the example of the data of Search Results corresponding to by the All Files data of external search server 108 management the time;

Figure 34 is the chart that illustrates when the example of the data of Search Results during corresponding to the file by facsimile reception;

Figure 35 is the chart of example that the screen display of Search Results is shown;

Figure 36 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to second example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction;

Figure 37 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the 3rd example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction;

Figure 38 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the example of the replicate run of the network equipment of duplicate instructions;

Figure 39 is the chart that the example of the screen display that is used for replicate run is shown;

Figure 40 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to first example of the output function of the network equipment of output order;

Figure 41 is the chart that the example of the screen display that is used for printing is shown;

Figure 42 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to second example of the output function of the network equipment of output order;

Figure 43 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the 3rd example of the output function of the network equipment of output order;

Figure 44 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the example of the facsimile transmission operation of the network equipment of facsimile transmission instruction;

Figure 45 A is the chart of example that the screen display of facsimile transmission operation is shown;

Figure 45 B is the chart that the example of the screen display of facsimile transmission operation after the data search is shown;

Figure 46 A and Figure 46 B are the charts of example that the screen display of facsimile transmission operation is shown.

Embodiment

Below, the preferred embodiments of the present invention are described with reference to the drawings.

Hereinafter, multi-function peripheral device (MFP) is an image processing system, and it is used as the example of network equipment of the present invention.Should be noted that the present invention is not limited to MFP.

First embodiment

At first, be described for universal architecture according to the information search system that comprises network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention.

The general-purpose system structure

Fig. 1 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the universal architecture of the information search system that comprises network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figure 1, information search system 1 comprises multi-function peripheral device (MFP) 10, and personal computer (PC) 107A, the 107B that are connected to multi-function peripheral device 10 by the network of for example the Internet.

Multi-function peripheral device 10 is corresponding to the network equipment of stating in claims of the application, and for example, can carry out the data communication of network service and execution and

personal computer

107A, 107B or other network terminals by http protocol.Multi-function peripheral device 10 has storage unit 11, is used for the control data (device control data) of memory storage 10 special uses.Here, for example, when network equipment was multi-function peripheral device, control data can comprise communication history data, print job historical data, print job file, special-purpose function, metering data, counting or address book (telephone directory) data of device.Be described in detail with reference to figure 2 and following accompanying drawing.

Personal computer

107A, 107B are general purpose computing devices.Below,

personal computer

107A, 107B are referred to as " personal computer 107 ".Personal computer 107 comprises (not shown) CPU (CPU (central processing unit)), RAM (random access memory), ROM (ROM (read-only memory)), display and input media.

The information search system of the first embodiment of the present invention by having said structure, the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 is stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.When the user imported the instruction of search information on the web browser that is used for operation on personal computer 107, in response to this instruction, personal computer 107 sent searching request to multi-functional peripheral unit 10.This operation is illustrated by the arrow among Fig. 1 (1).According to the reception of searching request, multi-function peripheral device 10 search are stored in the data in the storage unit 11, and obtain the clauses and subclauses of target data.Next, multi-function peripheral device 10 sends Search Results to personal computer 107.This operation is illustrated by the arrow among Fig. 1 (2).For example, multi-function peripheral device 10 is converted to HTML, XML or RSS data with Search Results, and transmission data converted to personal computer 107 is used for showing.

Therefore, can obtain following system, wherein a plurality of external personal computer 107 can long-range search be stored in the control data in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

Below, be described for hardware configuration, software configuration and the functional structure of such system.

Hardware configuration

Fig. 2 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the hardware configuration of the network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figure 2, the hardware cell 104 and the input/output circuitry 105 that comprise processor 101, working storage 102, memory storage 103, multi-function peripheral device 10 as the multi-function peripheral device 10 of the network equipment of present embodiment.

Processor 101 is center calculation and treating apparatus, is used to control multi-function peripheral 10.For example, processor 101 is by carrying out the function that is specifically designed to multi-function peripheral 10 with the hardware cell 104 that is specifically designed to multi-function peripheral 10.In addition, processor 101 is carried out the function of the web browser in multi-function peripheral device 10.

The control program of working storage 102 storage multi-function peripheral devices 10.For example, working storage 102 is RAM, and as the temporary storage area, this temporary storage area is used to carry out the software and the subsidiary operation of reading from memory storage 103.

Control program and other programs of memory storage 103 storage multi-function peripheral devices 10.For example, memory storage 103 is ROM of electrically rewritable, and storage is used to realize the functional programs according to the multi-function peripheral device 10 of present embodiment.Be stored in following being described of details reference Fig. 3 of the software in the memory storage 103.

For example, the hardware cell 104 of multi-function peripheral device 10 comprises having and is used to the display unit 109 importing user's various instructions and show the guidance panel of various message, and the output unit 110 of plotting apparatus for example.Hardware cell 104 may further include reading unit, for example scanner.

Input/output circuitry 105 is connected to external personal computer 107 by the network 106 of for example the Internet.

In the multi-function peripheral device 10 of first embodiment of the structure on have, the instruction of importing for example information search instruction as the user is during to the personal computer 107 that connects by network 106, in response to this instruction, the control data that multi-function peripheral device 10 is searched in the storage unit 11 (for example working storage 102) that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10.Because time, external personal computer 107 can long-range search be stored in the control data in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

Software configuration

Fig. 3 is the block diagram that illustrates according to the software configuration of the network equipment of the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in Figure 3, comprise user interface layer, be used for providing user interface to the user as the software of the multi-function peripheral device 10 of the network equipment of present embodiment; Application layer is used to realize the function of different application; And operation layer, the hardware cell 104 that is used to control multi-function peripheral device 10 provides different application functions.

User interface layer can comprise device users interface (UI) 201, is used to the display unit 109 of multi-function peripheral device 10 that user interface is provided, and this display unit 109 has unshowned guidance panel or other; And Web User Interface (UI) 202, be used to use the http communication agreement on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107, to provide user interface.

Application layer comprises replication application 211, is used to realize the function of duplicating machine; Facsimile recorder uses 212, is used to realize the function of facsimile recorder; Printer applications 213 is used to realize the function of printer; And scanner application 214, be used to realize the function of scanner.

Operation layer comprises print service 221, is used to control the output unit 110 of multi-function peripheral device 10, for example plotting apparatus; Read business 222, be used to control the unshowned reading unit of multi-function peripheral device 10; Network 223 is used to control input/output circuitry 105 and carries out data communication (comprising facsimile service) with external device (ED); And storer business 224, be used for Control work storer 102.

By top software configuration, the multi-function peripheral device 10 of first embodiment can be carried out data communication with personal computer 107 and the hardware cell 104 that can control multi-function peripheral device 10 by http protocol via the network of for example the Internet.

For example, when the user planned to use the guidance panel xcopy, user input instruction was duplicated output on guidance panel; Device users interface 201 receives the user's input that is used for duplicating output on guidance panel.Then, device users interface 201 guides replication application 211 to carry out the replicate run of appointment; According to this guide, replication application 211 is guided and is read professional 222 and print service 221 reads file page and at this page print file.Thus, the copy of multi-function peripheral device 10 output source documents.

Functional structure

As shown in Figure 4, multi-function peripheral device 10 comprises Search Control portion 300 and storage unit 11.This Search Control portion 300 further comprises request acceptance division (searching request acceptance division) 310, search section 320, display message creating section 330 and Search Results sending part 340.

Display message creating section 330 further comprises Web screen creating section 331 and open search section 332.

For example, Search Control portion 300 can be realized by Web User Interface (UI) 202, also can be realized by additive method.

Search Control portion 300 is stored in control data the storage unit 11 in response to the searching request search that receives from personal computer 107.

Request acceptance division 310 receives from the request of for example searching request of personal computer 107 transmissions.For example, searching request generates in response to search instruction, this search instruction is imported on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107 by the user, and request acceptance division 310 receives searching request by using the http communication agreement by input/output circuitry 105 and Network 223.In addition, request acceptance division 310 determines that searching request is the control data that is used to search for by multi-function peripheral device 10 management, and sends search instruction to search section 320 based on the search condition by the searching request appointment.

Based on the search instruction that sends from request receiving portion 310, search section 320 search are stored in the control data in the storage unit 11.In addition, search section 320 provides Search Results to display message creating section 330.

By using Web screen creating section 331 and open search section 332 and based on the Search Results that sends from search section 320, display message creating section 330 is created for example html data that will offer personal computer 107 or XML data or RSS data and is used for screen display.Describe the concrete form of display data on the screen with reference to Figure 13 (html data) and Figure 14 (RSS data), and to Figure 18 screen display is shown with reference to Figure 15.

The Web graph image is created in Web screen creating section 331, and it is specified by the control data that is stored in the storage unit 11.In addition, generate the request of reading in response to the reading command of on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107, importing by the user, and Web screen creating section 331 receives the request of reading by using the http communication agreement by input/output circuitry 105 and Network 223, and creates the Web graph image that shows control data.

Open search section 332 is created the XML format file of the information that is used for determining the search engine (searching service) that provided by multi-function peripheral device 10, and the XML format file is offered personal computer 107.The search engine (searching service) that is provided by multi-function peripheral device 10 is described with reference to figure 7-9.In addition, when the search instruction of importing in response to the web browser that is moved on personal computer 107 by the user generates searching request, open search section 332 receives searching request by using the http communication agreement by input/output circuitry 105 and Network 223, and creates the Web graph image that Search Results is shown.Should notice that open search section 332 has open form, make open search section 332 that the Search Results of the different search engines that provide by a large amount of content suppliers can be provided.

Search Results sending part 340 display data on the screen by the HTML, the XML that use the http communication agreement to send to be generated by display message creating section 330 or RSS form is to personal computer 107.

In the multi-function peripheral device 10 of first embodiment of the functional structure on have, search section 320 is stored in the control data the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 based on the searching request search that sends from personal computer 107; Display message creating section 330 is created for example html data that will offer personal computer 107 or XML data or RSS data and is used for screen display.This display data on the screen is sent to personal computer 107.Therefore, external personal computer 107 can long-range search be stored in the control data in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

Display message creating section 330 can show all clauses and subclauses of the information that is stored in the control data in the storage unit on a webpage, but the present invention is not limited to this.

According to the type of control data, control data can be distributed on a plurality of webpages.

Described display message creating section 330 above and for example created that html data, XML data or RSS data are used for screen display.Should notice that the form of the data created by display message creating section 330 can be specified by personal computer 107.Just and the search instruction on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107 together, also can import the form of the data that will create by display message creating section 330.In this case, the display data on the screen of specified format is created in display message creating section 330.

Below, the example of operation according to the information search system that comprises network equipment of present embodiment of the present invention is described.

Example 1

Fig. 5 is the chart that illustrates according to first example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention.

In Fig. 5, open search is described XML document and is stored in advance in the control data storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10, and it is to describe the XML document of the search engine that is used by multi-function peripheral device 10 that XML document is described in this opening search.Below, open search is described XML document and is called " open search data ".Because multi-function peripheral device 10 has the various documents that comprise open search description XML document, is used to provide various webpages, multi-function peripheral device 10 is as Web server.The details of open search data is described below with reference to Fig. 7 and Fig. 8.

At first, the personal computer 107 as customer set up obtains open search data from multi-function peripheral device 10.This operation is illustrated by the arrow among Fig. 5 (1).

Here, in response to the input of IP address of the multi-function peripheral device 10 in the address field on the web browser of operation on personal computer 107, be presented on the web browser by the search engine of open search data indication.The search engine input search condition of user for showing on the web browser.

Then, personal computer 107 sends searching request to multi-functional peripheral unit 10 according to user's input by using the http communication agreement, and this operation is illustrated by the arrow among Fig. 5 (2).

Then, the multi-function peripheral device 10 that receives searching request is carried out search in response to searching request, and Search Results is sent to personal computer 107 by the http communication agreement.This operation is illustrated by the arrow among Fig. 5 (3).

Fig. 6 A and Fig. 6 B are the process flow diagrams of details that is illustrated in the operation of the information search system 1 in first example.

At length, Fig. 6 A illustrates the operation of personal computer 107, and Fig. 6 B illustrates the operation of network equipment in the present example.

Should note the operation that step S11 in Fig. 6 A and S12 illustrate corresponding to the arrow among Fig. 5 (1), the operation that step S13 illustrates corresponding to the arrow among Fig. 5 (2) among Fig. 6 A, and the operation that step S24 illustrates corresponding to the arrow among Fig. 5 (3) among Fig. 6 B.

As shown in Figure 6A, in step S11, personal computer 107 obtains open search data from multi-function peripheral device 10 in specified URL.

Here, the IP address of multi-function peripheral device is imported into the address field on the web browser that moves on the personal computer 107, thus, by with the http communication of multi-function peripheral device 10, personal computer 107 obtains to be stored in the open search data (as shown in Figure 7) in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

In step S12, personal computer 107 determines whether that open obtaining of search data is successful.

If open obtaining of search data is successful, as shown in Figure 8, graph image is presented on the personal computer 107, and program proceeds to step S13.

If open obtaining of search data failed, for example, on personal computer 107, show error message, and termination routine.

In step S13, personal computer 107 sends searching request to multi-functional peripheral unit 10 according to the search engine of describing in open search data.The search instruction of being imported on the graph image shown in Fig. 8 (hereinafter will be described in detail) by the user is sent to multi-function peripheral device 10 by http communication.

In step S14, personal computer 107 is waited for from the response of multi-function peripheral device 10 about the searching request of transmission.Here, the multi-function peripheral device 10 that receives searching request is carried out the operation of step S21 in the step S24 in Fig. 6 B.The operation of step S21 in the step S24 among Fig. 6 B hereinafter will be described.

In the time of the EO of the step S21 among Fig. 6 B in the step S24, program is back to step S15.

In step S15, the Search Results that personal computer 107 receives from multi-function peripheral device 10.Here, personal computer 107 receives display data on the screen as Search Results by using the http communication agreement from multi-function peripheral device 10, and the form of this display data on the screen is HTML, XML or RSS.

According to the data that receive, display of search results on personal computer 107.

Below, with reference to figure 4 operation in the step S24 of step S21 among Fig. 6 B is described.

In step S21, the searching request that request acceptance division 310 receives from personal computer 107, and determine whether this searching request is the request that is used to search for by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

If this searching request is the request that is used to search for the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10, then ask acceptance division 310 to send search instructions, and program continue to step S22 to search section 320.

If this searching request is not the request that is used to search for the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10, then EOP (end of program).

In step S22, from the control data of search section 320 from be stored in storage unit 11 of request acceptance division 310 reception search instructions, extract desired data.Furthermore, search section 320 sends Search Results to display message creating section 330.

Here, desired data can be any control data that is stored in the storage unit 11, for example, and performance data, metering data, counting and the address-book data of communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device special use.

In step S23, html data, XML data or the RSS data that will be provided to personal computer 107 are created based on Search Results in the display message creating section 330 that has received the Search Results of search section 320 transmissions, are used for screen display.

In step S24, Search Results sending part 340 will be sent to personal computer 107 by the display data on the screen that display message creating section 330 generates by using the http communication agreement in step S23.

Because top operation, in information search system 1, external personal computer 107 can long-range search be stored in the control data in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

As shown in the step S11 of Fig. 6 A, by utilizing the web server function of multi-function peripheral device 10, by using the http communication agreement, the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10 provides with common data layout, for example open search data.

In addition, shown in the step S15 of Fig. 6 A, multi-function peripheral device 10 sends the display data on the screen of HTML, XML or RSS form as Search Results by using the http communication agreement to personal computer 107.

Top structure has following advantage.By the operation on web browser, the control data in the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10 can be searched for and be obtained to external personal computer 107, and this scheme is very simple.In addition, external personal computer 107 does not need to use any special software, but by only using web browser can utilize the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10.

Note, in multi-function peripheral device 10, can omit the establishment that is used for the screen picture that on the web browser of for example HTML web browser, shows.In addition, for example, because the Search Results of XML form is sent to personal computer 107, the user can freely handle Search Results.Therefore, reduced restriction, make and freely to handle Search Results in client's side, and this has further improved the performance of system user client.

Then, the search engine that has multi-function peripheral device 10 to use is described in first example.

Fig. 7 illustrates the chart of XML document of describing the search engine of network equipment according to present embodiment.

In XML document shown in Figure 7, clauses and subclauses A shows the title of search engine, clauses and subclauses B shows the description of search engine, and clauses and subclauses C shows the encoding scheme of being used by search engine in the data input, and clauses and subclauses D shows the one or more URL that use in search.The a plurality of web storage that comprise this XML document are in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10; Multi-function peripheral device 10 provides search engine as the Web server device thus.

Simultaneously, for example the web browser of red fox (Fire Fox) or explorer (Internet Explorer) is installed on the personal computer 107 of client's side, thus, may watch the information that discloses by multi-function peripheral device 10 as network service device.

In addition, by obtaining XML document as shown in Figure 7, may register search engine automatically by using the data that obtain.This is as the search plug-in unit because of the open search data of the web browser support of for example red fox (Fire Fox) or explorer (InternetExplorer).

Fig. 8 is the chart that illustrates according to the screen picture of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment.

Fig. 9 is the chart that illustrates according to the registration of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment.

At length, Fig. 9 illustrates search engine management screen image on the personal computer 107 of client's side.Here, the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10 (being represented by " X " in Fig. 9) is to manage with the same mode of other search engines.

In addition, a search engine only having registered multi-function peripheral device 10 shown in Figure 9; Certainly, this example is not limited to this.When multi-function peripheral device 10 has a plurality of search engine, can show (registration) these a plurality of search engines.Multi-function peripheral device 10 can be corresponding to preparing search engine by every control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 self-managements, for example, and address-book data (telephone directory), communication history data or operation historical data.For example, as among Fig. 9 by shown in " XXXXXX (address book) ", " XXXXXX (communication history) ", " XXXXXX (file) ", corresponding to having registered search engine " XXXXXX (address book) ", " XXXXXX (communication history) ", " XXXXXX (file) " by every control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

Example 2

Figure 10 is the chart that illustrates according to second example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention.

In Figure 10, by the operation of arrow (1) indication, that is, personal computer 107 obtains html documents, is different with those operations of first example shown in Figure 5.Below, this operation is mainly described.

In Figure 10, except the open search data of describing in first example, the html document that has embedded automatic discovery is stored in the control data storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 in advance.In html document, be useful on the description that notice personal computer 107 multi-function peripheral devices 10 provide search engine.Below, the html document that has embedded automatic discovery is called as " finding data automatically ".The details of automatic discovery data is described below with reference to Figure 12.

At first, the personal computer 107 as client computer obtains to find automatically data from multi-function peripheral device 10.This operation is illustrated by the arrow among Figure 10 (1).

Here, for example, the input of IP address in response to the multi-function peripheral device 10 in the address field on the web browser of operation on personal computer 107, web browser detects described automatic discovery (the underscore part among Figure 12) automatically, and the search engine that is provided by multi-function peripheral device 10 is installed automatically.

The operation that is illustrated by the arrow among Figure 10 (2), (3), (4) is with identical by the operation shown in the arrow among Fig. 5 (1), (2), (3); Omitted the description that repeats.

Figure 11 A and Figure 11 B are the process flow diagrams that is illustrated in the details of the operation of information search system 1 in second example.

At length, Figure 11 A shows the operation of personal computer 107 in this example, and Figure 11 B shows the operation of network equipment in the present example.

Shown in Figure 11 A, in step S31, personal computer 107 obtains to find automatically data from multi-function peripheral device 10 at the URL of appointment.

Here, the IP address of multi-function peripheral device 10 is input in the address field on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107; Thus, personal computer 107 obtains to be stored in the automatic discovery data (as shown in figure 12) in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 by the http communication with multi-function peripheral device 10.

In step S32, personal computer 107 determines whether to find automatically that obtaining of data is successful.

If it is successful finding obtaining of data automatically, program continues to step S33.

Failed if find obtaining of data automatically, for example, on personal computer 107, shown error message, and termination routine.

Step S33 in Figure 11 A is respectively identical with step S11 in Fig. 6 A to step S15 to step S37, thus, has omitted the description of step S33 to step S37.Furthermore, the step S41 among Figure 11 B is identical respectively to the step S21 among step S44 and Fig. 6 B to step S24; Thus, omitted the description of step S41 to step S44.

Because top operation, in the information search system 1 of this example, except first example, multi-function peripheral device 10 will find automatically that further data offer external personal computer 107.Thus, the web browser of personal computer 107 detects the value that is included in the automatic discovery in the automatic discovery data automatically, and the search engine that is provided by multi-function peripheral device 10 is installed automatically.

Top structure has following advantage.That is, the registration of the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10 can be carried out by the processing ease ground on web browser from external personal computer 107.This scheme is very simple.

In addition, in correlation technique, must carry out complicated operations, as accessed web page, select searching menu, send search instruction or the like.Yet in the present example, may passing through more, the operation of peanut obtains Search Results.Furthermore, when personal computer 107 is installed a plurality of search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10, may on a plurality of multi-function peripheral devices 10, simply carry out data search.

Below, the automatic discovery data of using in second example have been described.

Figure 12 is the chart that illustrates according to the automatic detection of the search engine of the network equipment of present embodiment.

In Figure 12, find that automatically data comprise the clauses and subclauses (the underscore part in Figure 12) of the automatic discovery of the search engine that indication is provided by multi-function peripheral device 10.Here, by the search engine of automatic discovery indication corresponding to the XML document among Fig. 7 (OpenSearchDescription.xml).

In this case, when personal computer 107 obtains as shown in Figure 12 html document, may detect search engine automatically.At length, the clauses and subclauses of " add XXX search engine " are added in the menu in the search column on the web browser.When clicking these clauses and subclauses, this search engine is added into search column, and similar with other search engines, and this search engine can change in search column, and the user can use this search engine.

The example of the Search Results of html format

Below, according to present embodiment of the present invention, the example of the display data on the screen of the html format that the display message creating section 330 by network equipment is generated is described.

Figure 13 is the chart that the html data of creating according to the Search Results of present embodiment is shown.

When creating html file data as shown in Figure 13 and it is presented on the web browser of personal computer 107, the user can directly confirm Search Results.

The file data of html format is the text data that can easily be handled, and the content of html file data is not limited to shown in Figure 13 those.For example, can create super connection to the alternative document data.Furthermore, in the present embodiment, also can use the extended formatting that is different from HTML, for example the Flash form.

The example of the Search Results of RSS form

Below, according to present embodiment of the present invention, the example of the display data on the screen of the RSS form that the display message creating section 330 by network equipment is generated is described.

Figure 14 illustrates according to the chart of present embodiment based on the RSS data of Search Results establishment.

When creating RSS file data as shown in figure 14 and it is presented on the web browser of personal computer 107, the user can directly confirm Search Results.

Furthermore because the RSS data also are the XML data, may be on the personal computer 107 of client's side deal with data, and this has realized new function.For example, based on the Search Results that is stored in the address information (telephone directory) in the storage unit 11, may realize business to people's send Email with certain bar address information.

Because describe the content of indication Search Results in detail, so omitted the description of the content of the Search Results shown in indication Figure 14 below with reference to Figure 33.

In Figure 14, the RSS version that illustrates is 2.0; Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to this, also can use RSS 0.9,1.0, atom (atom) and other versions.

The example 1 of the screen picture of Search Results

Below, the data that generate according to the display message creating section 330 of embodiments of the invention device Network Based are described first example of screen display.

Figure 15 is the chart of first example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 15 shows the example of the screen display of the Search Results that generates in multi-function peripheral device 10, and multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request that is used for " address book (telephone directory) ".

As mentioned above, one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, job file, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address-book data are stored in the storage unit 11.The multi-function peripheral device 10 of the searching request that receives " address book (telephone directory) " from personal computer 107, search section 320 search are stored in the data of the address date in the storage unit 11.

Searching request from " address book (telephone directory) " of personal computer 107 generates by the text box (not shown) input of character string of arranging on the screen picture that is presented on the web browser that is used for searching for, and perhaps generates by pressing search button.Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to this.For example, searching request can generate by being chosen in the address or the telephone number that show on the web browser.

Thus, external personal computer 107 can be by using the control data long-range search address-book data of web browser from the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10.

Certainly, address book (telephone directory) can not only comprise phone (fax) number, also comprises e-mail address or FTP address.

The example 2 of the screen picture of Search Results

Below, the data that generate according to the display message creating section 330 of present embodiment of the present invention device Network Based are described second example of screen display.

Figure 16 is the chart of second example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 16 shows the example of the screen display of the Search Results that generates in multi-function peripheral device 10, and multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request of " communication history (or operation history) ".

As mentioned above, one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, job file, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address-book data are stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.The multi-function peripheral device 10 of the searching request that receives " communication history " from personal computer 107, search section 320 search are stored in the data of the communication history data in the storage unit 11.

Searching request from " communication history " of personal computer 107 generates by the text box (not shown) input of character string of arranging on the screen picture that is presented on the web browser that is used for searching for, and perhaps generates by pressing search button.Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to these.For example, searching request can generate by being chosen in the object that shows on the web browser.

Thus, external personal computer 107 can be by using control data medium-long range search communication history (operation history) data of web browser from the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10.

Communication history corresponding to the historical data of each signal post record is carried out in the operation process of for example printer operation.Furthermore, when when for example personal computer 107 carries out job request, operation history is corresponding to the historical data of record during the course.Just, when user input data comes assigned address A and address B, and press start button when (this process is called operation 1) on personal computer 107, the communication history of the communication history of address A and address B is registered as the communication history of operation 1.When abnoraml end takes place, be registered as communication history as 1 corresponding to the communication history of the particular number of visit.Furthermore, operation 1 is registered as operation history.

Certainly, the communication history data can be the historical datas of facsimile transmission, facsimile reception, Email, FTP etc.The operation historical data can be the data of printer operation, scanner operation, facsimile recorder operation etc.

The example 3 of the screen picture of Search Results

Below, the data that generate according to the display message creating section 330 of present embodiment of the present invention device Network Based are described the 3rd example of screen display.

Figure 17 is the chart of the 3rd example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 17 shows in multi-function peripheral device 10 example of the screen display of the Search Results that generates, and multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request of " file " (for example, job file, image file or other).

As mentioned above, one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, job file, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address-book data are stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.The multi-function peripheral device 10 of the searching request that receives " file " from personal computer 107, search section 320 search are stored in the data of the file data in the storage unit 11.

Searching request from " file " of personal computer 107 generates by the text box (not shown) input of character string of arranging on the screen picture that is presented on the web browser that is used for searching for, and perhaps generates by pressing search button.Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to this.For example, can generate that to have ferret out be the searching request that is stored in p.m.entry in the storage unit 11 and other information with file together.

Thus, external personal computer 107 can be from the control data medium-long range search file data the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10, for example job file or image file.

The example 4 of the screen picture of Search Results

Below, the data that generate according to the display message creating section 330 of present embodiment of the present invention device Network Based are described the 4th example of screen display.

Figure 18 is the chart of the 4th example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 18 shows the example of the screen display of the Search Results that generates in multi-function peripheral device 10, and multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request of " device special function ", just, is specifically designed to the function of multi-function peripheral device 10.

As mentioned above, one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, job file, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address-book data are stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.The multi-function peripheral device 10 of the searching request that receives " device special function " from personal computer 107, search section 320 search are stored in the data of the device special function data in the storage unit 11.

Searching request from " the device special function " of personal computer 107 generates by the text box (not shown) input of character string of arranging on the screen picture that is presented on the web browser that is used for searching for, and perhaps generates by pressing search button.Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to this.

For example, when extracting duplex printing or other specific functions, in the searching request of personal computer 107 generation specific functions, and this searching request is sent to multi-function peripheral device 10.When multi-function peripheral device 10 was supported this specific function, indication can obtain specific function in multi-function peripheral device 10 information was stored in the storage unit 11; Therefore, search section 320 has obtained to indicate and has had the information of specific function as Search Results.The display message creating section 330 that receives the Search Results that is obtained for example embeds " OK " or other message that can obtain specific function in the indication multi-function peripheral device 10, and this message is that HTML, XML or RSS data are used for display of search results.

Thus, external personal computer 107 can be from the control data medium-long range searcher special function data the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10.

Second embodiment

In the present embodiment, comprise structure, the operation of the information search system of network equipment, and the hardware configuration of network equipment is identical with first embodiment with software configuration, has omitted the description that repeats.

In the present embodiment, except the function of in first embodiment, describing, according to the user right information that receives from personal computer 107, but applied restriction for the control data user search-type in the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10.The functional structure of network equipment according to a second embodiment of the present invention is described below.

Functional structure

Figure 19 is the block diagram that the functional structure of network equipment according to a second embodiment of the present invention is shown.

The difference of the structure among Fig. 4 of the structure shown in Figure 19 and first embodiment is newly to have added authority information receiving element 350.Below, authority information receiving element 350 and search section 320 are mainly described.

Based on search instruction that sends from request acceptance division 310 and the user right information that sends from authority information receiving element 350, search section 320 search are stored in the control data in the storage unit 11.In addition, search section 320 sends to display message creating section 330 with Search Results.

Authority information receiving element 350 receives user right information from personal computer 107.But the search-type of user right information paired domination number certificate has applied restriction, just, allows the type by the control data of user search.

Because top function, in the multi-function peripheral device of second embodiment, except those functions of describing in first embodiment, authority information receiving element 350 receives user right information from personal computer 107.Based on search instruction that sends from request acceptance division 310 and the user right information that sends from authority information receiving element 350, search section 320 search are stored in the control data in the storage unit 11.

For example, each of control data part and indication allow the user's of Search Control data user right information to be stored in together in the storage unit 11.In this case, search section 320 will be compared from the user right information of authority information receiving element 350 transmissions with the user right information of control data association store and will be used for user rs authentication, and when corresponding user allows to carry out data search, carry out search.

Because top structure, in information search system 1, but apply restriction for search-type according to the control data of user right information according to present embodiment; Therefore improved the security of control data.Though should be noted that and toply described user rs authentication and carry out, the invention is not restricted to this by search section 320.

The example of the screen picture of Search Results

Below, according to present embodiment of the present invention, the data that generate based on the display message creating section 330 by network equipment are described the example of screen display.

Figure 20 is the chart of example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 20 is illustrated in the example of the screen display of the Search Results that generates in the multi-function peripheral device 10, and this multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request of " counting and charging ".

As mentioned above, one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, job file, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address-book data are stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10.

In addition, the user right data of domestic consumer of enumeration data and enumeration data association store together allow is extracted in indication, and indication allows to extract keeper's the user right data of metering data and meter metering data association store together.In other words, domestic consumer and keeper allow to extract enumeration data, and only the keeper allows to extract metering data.

The multi-function peripheral device 10 of the searching request that receives " counting and charge " from personal computer 107, search section 320 search are stored in the counting in the storage unit 11 and the data of metering data.For example, if the user is a domestic consumer, but the user can extract enumeration data can not extract metering data; If the user is the keeper, the user both can extract enumeration data also can extract metering data.Notice that Figure 20 illustrates the example of the screen display of the Search Results that domestic consumer obtains.Can find does not have to show the metering data that does not allow domestic consumer to extract.

According to this example, external personal computer 107 can be from search enumeration data of the control data medium-long range the storage unit 11 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10 and metering data.Furthermore, may apply restriction according to the type extracted of user right information paired domination number certificate.

Searching request from " enumeration data and the metering data " of personal computer 107 generates by the text box (not shown) input of character string of arranging on the screen picture that is presented on the web browser that is used for searching for, and perhaps generates by pressing search button.Certainly, present embodiment is not limited to this.

The 3rd embodiment

In the present embodiment, comprise structure, the operation of the information search system of network equipment, and the hardware configuration of network equipment is identical with first embodiment with software configuration.Below, omitted the description that repeats.

In the present embodiment, except the function of in first embodiment, describing, according to the Search Results of network equipment, carries out image output, for example output of paper spare or LCD (LCD) output.Functional structure according to the network equipment of present embodiment of the present invention is described below.

Functional structure

Figure 21 is the block diagram of functional structure that the network equipment of a third embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown.

The difference of the structure among Fig. 4 of the structure shown in Figure 21 and first embodiment is newly to have added image formation unit 400 and output unit 500.Below, image formation unit 400 and output unit 500 are mainly described, and request acceptance division 310 and search section 320.

Request acceptance division 310 receives the searching request that sends from personal computer 107.In addition, request acceptance division 310 receives the image output request that sends from personal computer 107, for example output of paper spare or LCD output.

Based on the search instruction that sends from request acceptance division 310, search section 320 search are stored in the control data in the storage unit 11.In addition, when the image output order that search section 320 is accepted from request acceptance division 310, search section 320 sends Search Results to image formation unit 400.

Based on the Search Results that search section 320 obtains, image formation unit 400 generates view data and is used for image output.For example, image formation unit 400 generates the view data that is used for output of paper spare or LCD output.

The view data that output unit 500 outputs are generated by image formation unit 400.For example, output unit 500 is corresponding to display device 109 or output unit 110.

Because top function, in the multi-function peripheral device 10 of the 3rd embodiment, except those functions of describing in first embodiment, request acceptance division 310 is accepted the image output request from personal computer 107.Based on the search instruction that sends from request acceptance division 310, search section 320 search are stored in the control data in the storage unit 11, and search section 320 sends Search Results to image formation unit 400.Image formation unit 400 generates view data and is used for image output, and output unit 500 outputs are by the view data of image formation unit 400 generations.

As a result, in the information search system 1 according to present embodiment of the present invention, external personal computer 107 can long-range search be stored in the control data in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10, and the control data that is obtained can be exported.

The 4th embodiment

The universal architecture of the information search system that comprises network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention at first, is described.

The general-purpose system structure

Figure 22 is the block diagram of universal architecture that the information search system that comprises network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown.

The difference of the structure among Fig. 1 of the structure shown in Figure 22 and first embodiment is newly to have added external search server 108.Below, external search server 108 is mainly described.

External search server 108 is the server units that are used for searching for, and is the common computer device that comprises (not shown) CPU (CPU (central processing unit)), RAM (random access memory), ROM (ROM (read-only memory)), display and input media.Furthermore, external search server 108 can have and multi-function peripheral device 10 identical functions, and for example, external search server 108 supports to open the search engine of search.Optionally, external search server 108 can be a search server not of the same race, for example, does not support the search engine of open search.Furthermore, external search server 108 can comprise a plurality of search servers.

Because top structure, in the information search system 1 of the 4th embodiment, those functions of in embodiment in front, describing, when multi-function peripheral device 10 was stored in control data the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 based on the searching request search that receives from external personal computer 107, multi-function peripheral device 10 long-range search simultaneously was stored in control data in the external search server 108.

Below, order is described hardware configuration, software configuration and the functional structure of multi-function peripheral device 10.

Hardware configuration

Figure 23 is the block diagram of hardware configuration that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown.

As shown in figure 23, multi-function peripheral device 10 comprises processor 101, working storage 102, storage unit 103, hardware cell 104 and input/output circuitry 105.

Those that describe among the above-mentioned hardware element of multi-function peripheral device 10 and first embodiment with reference to figure 2 are identical.Here, omit the description that repeats.

Software configuration

Figure 24 is the block diagram of software configuration that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown.

As shown in figure 24, the software of multi-function peripheral device 10 comprises user interface layer, is used for providing user interface to the user; Application layer is used to realize the function of different application; And operation layer, the different application function that provides of control hardware unit 104 and other is provided.

Those that describe among the above-mentioned software element of multi-function peripheral device 10 and first embodiment with reference to figure 3 are identical.Here, omit the description that repeats.

Functional structure

Figure 25 is the block diagram of functional structure that the network equipment of a fourth embodiment in accordance with the invention is shown.

The structure shown in Figure 25 and the difference of the structure shown in Figure 21 are newly to have added external search server data search unit 610, external search server data acquiring unit 620 and external search server controls unit 630.Below, external search server data search unit 610, external search server data acquiring unit 620, external search server controls unit 630 and request acceptance division 310 and search section 320 are mainly described.

Request acceptance division 310 receives request such as the searching request that sends from personal computer 107.For example, searching request generates in response to search instruction, described search instruction is imported on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107 by the user, and request acceptance division 310 receives searching request by using the http communication agreement by input/output circuitry 105 and Network 223.

In addition, request acceptance division 310 determines that the searching request of being accepted is the control data that is used for searching in multi-function peripheral device 10 management, still is used for searching for the externally control data of search server 108 management.Furthermore, request acceptance division 310 sends search instruction to search section 320 or external search server data search unit 610 based on definite result.

External search server data search unit 610 is carried out search by using external search server 108 by networking professional 223.For example, when external search server 108 and multi-function peripheral device 10 have identical function, just, external search server 108 supports to open the search engine of search, the open search data that 610 acquisitions of external search server data search unit are provided by external search server 108 is explained open search data and is used external search server 108 as search engine.

External search server data acquiring unit 620 obtains the control data of management in the search server 108 externally by Network 223.

External search server data control module 630 is by the search of external search server 10 control datas.For example, external search server controls unit 630 possesses a series of available external search server 108 by storage unit 11.In addition, external search server controls unit 630 can issuing command to external search server data search unit 610, make external search server data search unit 610 with preset time at interval and the operation that is asynchronous to the user issue search instruction to the external search server of being scheduled to or be connected by network 108.Note, based on data storage that search instruction obtained in storage unit 11.

Because said structure, in multi-function peripheral device 10 according to the 4th embodiment, the function of in embodiment in front, describing, when multi-function peripheral device 10 was stored in control data the storage unit 11 based on the searching request search that receives from external personal computer 107, multi-function peripheral device 10 long-range search simultaneously was stored in control data in the external search server 108.

Below, be described in the example of the search operation in the multi-function peripheral device 10 of present embodiment, and in an example, external search server 108 and multi-function peripheral device 10 has identical function, just, external search server 108 supports to open the search engine of search; In another example, the external search server is different types of search server, and just, external search server 108 is not supported open search.

Example 1

Figure 26 is the chart that illustrates according to first example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention.

In this example, external search server 108 has and multi-function peripheral device 10 identical functions, and just, external search server 108 supports to open the search engine of search.

In Figure 26, identical by the arrow (1) among Fig. 5 of arrow (2), (3), (4) shown operation and first embodiment, (2), (3) shown operation, therefore omitted the description that repeats here.

In the operation that is illustrated by arrow (1) in Figure 26, multi-function peripheral device 10 obtains open search data from external search server 108, and open search data is to describe the XML document of the search engine of external search server 108.

Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B are the charts that open search data is shown, and this opening search data is to describe the XML document of search engine.

XML document shown in Figure 27 A is identical with the XML document shown in Fig. 7, omits the description that repeats.

XML document shown in Figure 27 B shows external search server 108 and discloses the example that is placed on the address book in the in-house network.

As shown in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B, clauses and subclauses A represents the title of search engine, the description that clauses and subclauses B represents search engine, and clauses and subclauses C represents the encoding scheme that search engine uses in the data input, and clauses and subclauses D is illustrated in the one or more URL that use in the search.Corresponding to the control data by 108 management of external search server, clauses and subclauses A defines in the XML document of D in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B.When external search server 108 comprises a plurality of external search servers when (for example, simply being represented by 108A and 108B), clauses and subclauses A externally defines in each of

search server

108A and 108B to D.

According to this example, when multi-function peripheral device 10 was stored in control data the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 based on the searching request search that receives from external personal computer 107, multi-function peripheral device long-range search simultaneously was stored in control data in the external search server 108.

Figure 28 is the process flow diagram of details that the operation of network equipment in the present example is shown.

At length, in Figure 28, multi-function peripheral device 10 is analyzed the XML document (shown in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B) that obtains from external search server 108, and search is by the control data of external search server 108 management.

In Figure 28, in step S51, external search server data search unit 610 obtains open search data.For example, by carry out with the http communication of the URL that receives from personal computer by request acceptance division 310 or with http communication by the URL of external search server controls unit 630 appointments, external search server data search unit 610 obtains open search data.Notice that this URL comprises the information of the statement that will be extracted.

In step S52, external search server data search unit 610 determines whether the acquisition of open search data is successful.

If the acquisition of open search data is successful, then program continues to step S53.Otherwise, termination routine.

In step S53, multi-function peripheral device 10 is analyzed the open search data (XML document shown in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B just) that obtains.

Here, multi-function peripheral device 10 is operated to step S64 execution analysis at step S61.The analysis operation of step S61 in the step S64 is described below

When the analysis operation of step S61 in step S64 finished, program was back to step S54.

In step S54, whether external search server data search unit 610 determining step S61 are successful to the analysis operation among the step S64.

If analysis operation is successful, program continues to step S55.Otherwise, termination routine.

In step S55, external search server data search unit 610 is carried out search.For example, the search operation in step S55 be identical at step S108 shown in Figure 32 to the operation among the S110, step S108 will be discussed in more detail below to the operation among the S110.

Search Results is sent to request acceptance division 310 or external search server controls unit 630.

Below, the operation in the step S64 of step S61 among Figure 28 is described.

In step S61, external search server data search unit 610 extracts the URL element (the clauses and subclauses D in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B just) that is included in the open search data that obtains among the step S51.

In step S62, external search server data search unit 610 determines whether to exist the URL element.

If there is the URL element, program continues to step S63.Otherwise, for example, on personal computer 107, show error message, and termination routine.

In step S63, external search server data search unit 610 determines whether the value of the type attribute of URL element has specific form.For example " application/Atom+xml " in Figure 27 A is the value of the type attribute of URL element.Here, by using form shown in Figure 29, whether the value of determining the type attribute of URL element has the form that can be analyzed by external search server data search unit 610.

Figure 29 is stored in the form that is used for Analysis of X ML document in the multi-function peripheral device 10.

For example, " form that can be analyzed by external search server data search unit 610 " can be (with reference to Figure 29) such as Atom1.0, RSS2.0, HTML.For example, be stored in advance in the memory storage 103 of multi-function peripheral device 10 at the form shown in Figure 29.

Return Figure 28, if the value of the type attribute of URL element has specific form, program continues to step S64.Otherwise program is back to step S61, and external search server data search unit 610 is extracted in the next URL element of the URL element that obtains among the step S61 to circulate the preceding.(the next line among the clauses and subclauses D in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B just.)

In step S64, external search server data search unit 610 is used in " { SearchTerms} " of describing in the search statement that comprises among the URL of appointment among the step S35 substitutes the URL element that obtains in step S61 the value of template attribute.For example, the template attribute of URL element have as shown in Figure 27 A " http://mfp/? q={SearchTerms}... " value.

The URL that the character string of creating in this step has become external search server data search unit 610 to carry out data search by the operation among the step S55.

Because top operation, in the multi-function peripheral device 10 of this example, multi-function peripheral device 10 is analyzed the XML document (shown in Figure 27 A and Figure 27 B) that obtains from external search server 108, and search is by the control data of external search server 108 management.

Example 2

Figure 30 is the chart that illustrates according to second example of the operation of the information search system 1 of present embodiment of the present invention.

In this example, external search server 108 is search servers different with multi-function peripheral device 10, and just, the external search server is not supported open search.

In Figure 30, be identical by the operation shown in arrow (1), (2), (5) with the operation that in Fig. 5 of first embodiment, illustrates by arrow (1), (2), (3), omitted the description that repeats thus here.

In the operation that is illustrated by arrow (3) and (4) in Figure 30, multi-function peripheral device 10 is carried out search by external search server 108.

Figure 31 is the process flow diagram of details that the operation of network equipment in the present example is shown.

At length, in Figure 31, multi-function peripheral device 10 is carried out search by external search server 108.

In this example, the request acceptance division 310 of multi-function peripheral device 10 or external search server controls unit 630 write down the URL that the search engine that is provided by external search server 108 is provided in advance, and are recorded in the method for specifying search statement in the external search server 108.

In Figure 31, in step S71, external search server data search unit 610 obtains the URL that receives from personal computer 107 by request acceptance division 310, perhaps by the URL of external search server controls unit 630 appointments.Here, URL comprises the information of the statement that is used to search for.

In step S72, external search server data search unit 610 is carried out search.At length, by using the search statement obtain in step S71, the external search server 108 of external search server data search unit 610 and the URL appointment that obtains in step S71 is carried out http communications.For example, the search operation in step S71 be identical at step S108 shown in Figure 32 to the operation among the S110.Operating in below in Figure 32 will be described in detail.Search Results is sent to request acceptance division 310 or external search server controls unit 630.

Because top operation in the multi-function peripheral device 10 of this example, is carried out search by external search server 108, these are different with multi-function peripheral device 10, and just, external search server 108 is not supported open search.

According to this example, even when external search server 108 is not supported open search, because multi-function peripheral device 10 has been stored the URL that the search engine that is provided by external search server 108 is provided in advance, and the method for externally specifying the statement that is used to search in the search server 108, may use external search server 108 to carry out data searchs.

In the example 1 of present embodiment, shown in the step S51 among Figure 28, external search server data search unit 610 is found the URL of search engine, and the Syndicating search statement generates URL.In example 2, shown in the step S71 among Figure 31, this operation is carried out in request acceptance division 310 or external search server controls unit 630.

In addition, the URL of the search engine that provides by external search server 108 and externally specify the method for the statement that is used for searching in the control program of the memory storage 103 that is stored in multi-function peripheral device 10, to describe in the search server 108.Request acceptance division 310 or external search server controls unit 630 are according to the control program operation, and guide external search server data search unit 610 is carried out data search.

The example of in network equipment, searching for 1

Figure 32 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to first example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction.

At length, in Figure 32, multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request that generates in response to the input by user's search instruction on the web browser that moves on the personal computer 107, and search is by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management own and the control data of being managed by external search server 108.

Here, as Fig. 8 and shown in Figure 9, suppose to register in the web browser that the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10 moves on personal computer 107.

With reference to Figure 32, in step S101, searching request is sent to Search Control portion 300.Searching request is according to being generated by user's inputted search statement on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107.

In step S102, in response to the searching request that receives in step S101,300 indication search section, 320 search of Search Control portion are by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

In step S103,, extract desired data in the control data of search section 320 from be stored in storage unit 11 in response to search instruction.Here, desired data can be the control data that is stored in the storage unit 11, for example, and communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device-specific performance data, metering data, counting and address-book data.

In step S104, search section 320 is sent in the Search Results that obtains among the step S103 to Search Control portion 300.For example, Search Results can be binary data or XML data.When Search Results was binary data, processing speed was high; When Search Results is the XML data, be possible based on the conversion process of XSLT (XSL conversion), and this has improved the dirigibility of disposal route.

In step S105, the tabulation of Search Control portion 300 630 acquisition external search servers 108 from external search server controls unit.For example, the tabulation of external search server 108 is stored in the storage unit 11 in advance.The tabulation of external search server 108 is corresponding to the information of the ferret out data that are used for determining external search server 108, for example IP address of external search server 108, and the URL of open search data.Below, this information is called " the ferret out data are determined information " where necessary.

The tabulation of external search server 108 also can perhaps be searched for external search server 108 by multi-function peripheral device 10 by network 106 and be obtained automatically by the registering functional registration of user by being provided by multi-function peripheral device 10.

In step S106, external search server controls unit 630 sends tabulating to Search Control portion 300 of external search server 108.

In step S107, the Search Control portion 300 that receives the tabulation of external search server 108 sends search instruction to external search server data search unit 610, and one of them of the external search server 108 in the feasible tabulation carried out search based on the searching request that receives in step S101.

In step S108, external search server data search unit 610 indication external search servers 108 are carried out data search.

In step S109, in response to the searching request that receives at step S108, the control data that 108 search of external search server itself are managed by external search server 108.

In step S110, external search server 108 sends the Search Results of XML form to external search server data search unit 610.

Search Results at XML form shown in Figure 33 and Figure 34.

In step S111, the external search server data search unit 610 that receives Search Results sends Search Results to Search Control portion 300.Search Results can be binary data or XML data.Especially, when Search Results has the data layout identical with the Search Results that is sent to search section 320 in step S104, may be standardized in the processing in the external search server data search unit 610.

In step S112, the Search Control portion 300 that receives Search Results generates html data based on Search Results.For example, Search Control portion 300 generation display message are used for showing on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107.Figure 35 shows the example of the screen picture of Search Results.

Figure 33 is the chart that illustrates when Search Results example of data corresponding to by the All Files data of external search server 108 management the time.

In Figure 33, titile (exercise question) element of channel (channel) element (just, by＜channel〉and＜/channel〉part of surrounding) comprise that character string " 108 ", its indication Search Results are the file datas by 108 management of external search server.

" open search: inquiry (Query) " element in the channel element refers to the search statement that uses in search be " * ", and it means all types of file datas.

" item (clauses and subclauses) " element in the channel element (by symbol＜item〉and＜/item〉part of surrounding) refer to the file data that will search for, and generate clauses and subclauses element corresponding to the number of the file data that will search for.In Figure 34, showing only has a clauses and subclauses element, but present embodiment is not limited to this.

Below, this clauses and subclauses element is described.

In this clauses and subclauses element, title element representation file name, the URL of link (link) element representation indication document location, the summary of description (description) element representation file, author (author) element representation is created the user's of this document title, pubdate (announcement time) element representation is created the time of file, the indication of media (medium): thumbnail (thumbnail) element representation is corresponding to the URL of the picture position of the thumbnail of file, the number of pages of mfp:page (number of pages) element representation file, the size of the page or leaf of mfp:page size (page or leaf size) element representation file, and the color mode of mfp:colormode (color mode) element indication file (colored or monochromatic).

Figure 34 is the chart that illustrates when the example of the data of Search Results during corresponding to the file by facsimile reception.

At length, manage by external search server 108 by the file of facsimile reception.

In Figure 34, the title element of channel element (just, by＜channel〉and＜/channel〉part of surrounding) comprise that character string " 108 ", its indication Search Results are the file datas by 108 management of external search server.Other elements in Figure 34 be identical at the element shown in Figure 33, omitted the description that repeats.

Figure 35 is the chart of example that the screen display of Search Results is shown.

At length, Figure 35 illustrates the example that wherein extracts three files.

The file on the left side " FAX0001 " is the data by multi-function peripheral device 10 management in Figure 35.At the file at Figure 35 center " SCAN0006[108B] " is the data by external search server 108A management, and the afterbody that character string " 108A " and identifying information are attached to filename is indicated the supvr of file.Similar, the file on the right in Figure 35 " COPY[108B] " is the data by external search server 108B management, and character string " 108B " and the identifying information afterbody that is attached to filename is discerned the supvr of file.

In the superincumbent description, control data just, obtains the Search Results and the filename of control data and the identifying information (for example device name) that is used to discern as the gerentocratic device of control data and shows together.But, show that the method for control data is not limited to this.For example, as shown in figure 35, work as control data, when promptly the Search Results of Huo Deing is file data, thumbnail that can display file.

In other words, by file name is added suffix, can from data, tell data by multi-function peripheral device 10 management by 108 management of external search server.Optionally, also can finish by the color of the additional icon or change character or unit.

Because top operation, multi-function peripheral device 10 can be searched for control data of itself being managed by multi-function peripheral device 10 and the control data of being managed by external search server 108, and this multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request that generates in response to the input by the search instruction of user on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107.

As a result, may in multi-function peripheral device 10, finish and handle and unnecessary personal computer 107 is externally carried out data search on the search server 108.Furthermore, when carrying out search, the user may shorten the stand-by period.

When external search server 108 comprises a plurality of

external search server

108A and 108B, repeatedly carry out in the operation of step S107 in the step S111 each for external search server 108A and 108B.In this case, when display of search results on screen, Search Results can with outside search server be unit cell arrangement on screen, perhaps Search Results can sort according to importance, update date or other.For the method that shows without limits.

In the operation in step S105 and step S106, owing to stored the tabulation of external search server 108 in advance, the information of external search server 108 can be recorded in little storage area.

When search section 320 sends the Search Results of XML form in step S104, perhaps when external search server 108 when step S111 sends the Search Results of XML form, as mentioned above, can be by the conversion to html data in step S112 of XSLT processing execution.In this case, by changing XSLT style page or leaf, may easily change different html datas.

The example 2 of the search in network equipment

Figure 36 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to second example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction.

In example 1, multi-function peripheral device 10 receives the searching request that generates in response to the input by the search instruction of user on the web browser that moves on the personal computer 107, and search is by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management own and the control data of being managed by external search server 108.In example 2, carry out different types of search operation.

Here, as shown in Fig. 8 and Fig. 9, suppose that the search engine of multi-function peripheral device 10 is registered on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107.

With reference to Figure 36, in step S201, external search server controls unit 630 is asynchronous to user's operation, and the issue search instruction makes external search server data search unit 610 carry out search to external search server 108.For example, be included in such as statement of " * ", " all " and indicate all ferret outs (for example All Files, all address books) to be included in the Search Results in the search instruction.Because this, all control datas of being managed by external search server 108 can be extracted as Search Results.

For example, when ferret out is file, control data, promptly the Search Results that obtains in step S201 can comprise the documentation ﹠ info of URL of the position of the size of the number of pages that is similar to file name, file summary, the date of creating file, file, file page and indication file.Therefore by visit URL, may obtain, editor and deleted file itself, perhaps other operations.

In step S202, external search server data search unit 610 indication external search servers 108 are carried out data search.

In step S203, external search server 108 is based on the control data of the search instruction search that receives in step S202 by 108 management of external search server.

In step S204, external search server 108 sends Search Results to outside search server data search unit 610, and it is the XML data.

In step S205, external search server data search unit 610 sends the Search Results of reception to external search server controls unit 630.

In step S206, external search server controls unit 630 comes the memory search result by storer business 224 in storage unit 11.As mentioned above, the data in this step can be specific binary formats, perhaps the XML form.

Repeat at interval with preset time to the operation among the S206 at step S201, thus, the control data by 108 management of external search server can be searched for and store to multi-function peripheral device 10 regularly.

For example, some time interval can be 30 minutes, one day or other time cycle.When the control data that will be extracted is file, operation historical data or other data that often are modified, the short time interval can be set, but, can be set the long time interval for telephone directory or other data of often not revising.Just, can adjust the time interval according to the type of the control data that will extract.

When external search server 108 comprises a plurality of

external search server

108A and 108B, repeat to carry out data search to the operation among the S206 at step S201 for each external search server 108A and external search server 108B.

Is identical with step S101 in Figure 32 to the operation among the S104 to the operation among the S214 at step S211, has omitted the description that repeats.

In step S215, Search Control portion 300 instruction memory business 224 search for by storage unit 11 storage and by the control data of external search server 108 management.

In step S216, storer business 224 is from extracting the control data that satisfies the searching request that receives in step S211 to the S206 at step S201 in the control data of storage in storage unit 11.

In step S217, storer professional 224 sends the Search Results of reception to Search Control portion 300.

In step S218, the Search Control portion 300 that receives Search Results generates html data based on Search Results.For example, generating video data is used for showing on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107.Notice that html data comprises the link to URL, this URL indication is by the position of the real data of the control data of external search server 108 management.Owing to this,, may not pass through multi-function peripheral device 10 by the real data of the control data of external search server 108 management from 108 acquisitions of external search server by on personal computer 107, specifying this link.

According to the multi-function peripheral device in example 2 10, the user carries out data search by using at the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107 on multi-function peripheral device 10, to search for by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management and the control data of being managed by external search server 108.

As a result, may in multi-function peripheral device 10, finish processing, and unnecessary personal computer 107 externally carries out data search on the search server 108.Furthermore, when carrying out search, the user may shorten the stand-by period.

In the above-mentioned example 1 and example 2 of the search of attention in network equipment, when by using when the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107 is carried out data search on multi-function peripheral device 10, searched device can be limited to multi-function peripheral device 10 or external search server 108 or the two.Just, can dispose and make to allow the user clearly carry out the selection of method, perhaps multi-function peripheral device 10 can automatically carry out the selection of method by appropriate mode, and any one of perhaps top two methods can be fixed as acquiescence.

Clearly carry out the method that method is selected for being used for the user, for example, prepare the different collection of open search data, and can select the different search engines of different URL for each method.

For the method for multi-function peripheral device 10 by appropriate mode automatic selecting method, for example, search is by the control data of multi-function peripheral device 10 management, and when not having data consistent with searching request, perhaps the number of the collection of the data consistent with searching request is less than set-point, and external search server 108 is as wanting searched device to carry out data search.

For fixing a method is what give tacit consent to, three kinds of situations are arranged, promptly only multi-function peripheral device 10 be searched device,, only external search server 108 is to want searched device, and multi-function peripheral device 10 and external search server 108 all are to want searched device.

The 3rd example of in network equipment, searching for

Figure 37 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the 3rd example of the search operation of the network equipment of search instruction.

In example 2, because in the operation of the step S201 shown in Figure 36 in the S206, multi-function peripheral device 10 is asynchronous to the user and operates the control data of acquisition by 108 management of external search server.In this example, another example that obtains processing is described.

Step S201 is identical to the operation among the S206 among the operation of step S301 among Figure 37 in the S305 and Figure 36, has omitted the description that repeats.

In step S306, external search server controls unit 630 issuing commands are to external search server data acquiring unit 620, obtain the real data that is arranged in the URL that is included in the Search Results that step S35 receives.

In step S307, external search server data acquiring unit 620 sends to obtain to instruct to external search server 108 and obtains real data.

In step S308, external search server data acquiring unit 620 obtains real data from external search server 108 by specified URL.Here, for example, when wanting searched control data to be file data, real data can be PDF or tiff format; When wanting searched control data to be address-book data, real data can be XML form or the CSV form that comprises address title or telephone number.Just, the type of the control data that the real data basis will be searched has appropriate form.

In step S309, the external search server data acquiring unit 620 that obtains real data sends real data to external search server controls unit 630.These transmission data can still have from the form of the data of external search server 108 receptions, and perhaps these transmission data can be converted into appropriate form.

In step S310, the external search server controls unit 630 that has obtained real data is stored in Search Results that obtains among the step S305 and the real data that obtains by storer professional 224 in storage unit 11 in step S309.As mentioned above, the data of Search Results can be the binary formats of appointment, perhaps the XML form.Especially, when the data of Search Results have the data layout identical with the Search Results that is sent by search section 320, may be standardized in the processing in the external search server data search unit 610.

Because aforesaid operations, multi-function peripheral device 10 are asynchronous to the control data of user's operation acquisition by 108 management of external search server.

Notice that in step S310, Search Results and real data can be stored in the storage unit 11 mutually relatively.Because this, Search Control portion 300 can use Search Results to carry out data search, and this Search Results is a documentation ﹠ info.

When external search server 108 comprises a plurality of

external search server

108A and 108B, be used for carrying out data search at step S301 to the operation among the S310 for each repetition of external search server 108A and external search server 108B.

The interrelated storage of Search Results and real data, when real data was used in expectation, real data can very fast acquisition.

Top searching method can use respectively according to the type of real data and the method for use real data.For example, when described real data is a file data, it has big data capacity usually, because data capacity is big, can adopt the search shown in Figure 36 to handle.In addition, when real data is an address-book data, it has little data capacity usually, perhaps requires reaction velocity fast as much as possible, for example, when the user selects and use guidance panel, can adopt the search shown in Figure 37 to handle.

In this manner, owing to searching method is selected according to the type of real data and the method for use real data, the effective land productivity of the possibility resource of working storage 102, memory storage 103 or other multi-function peripheral devices 10.

The example of replicate run in network equipment

Figure 38 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the example of the replicate run of the network equipment of duplicate instructions.

In this example, on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107, the user imports duplicate instructions and duplicates the desired data of the control data of being managed by external search server 108 to multi-functional peripheral unit 10.Based on the duplicate instructions that receives, multi-function peripheral device 10 is from the copy of external search server 108 to multi-function peripheral device 10 communications of control data own.

As shown in figure 38, in step S401, personal computer 107 sends duplicate instructions to multi-functional peripheral unit 10.Here, for example, on the screen picture of the Search Results on the web browser that is presented at operation on the personal computer 107 (with reference to Figure 39), the file that user's selection will be replicated, and further press reproduction button.Be sent to Search Control portion 300 owing to press the duplicate instructions of reproduction button generation by Network 223.

Figure 39 is the chart that the example of the screen display that is used for replicate run is shown.

At length, as shown in figure 39, the right that is chosen in Figure 39 is by the file of " COPY0001[108B] " indication, for example, by choosing check box, and presses reproduction button; Thus, duplicate the file of selection by multi-function peripheral device 10.The situation of this moment is shown in Figure 39.In Figure 39, file from the upper left corner with the inverse time series arrangement.

In Figure 39, the file of on the left side " COPY0001 " is the file that duplicates from external search server 108B, and filename is " COPY0001 ", and it is identical with filename among the search server 108B externally.At the not subsidiary suffix " 108B " of the afterbody of filename; This is because this file is managed by multi-function peripheral device 10.

In Figure 39,, arranged " a " frame for each file, " b " frame and " c " frame." a " frame table shows the file type identifier, and whether its identification document is by the file that reads acquisition, the file that duplicates in replicate run or the fax paper that obtained by facsimile service by scanner or other reading devices." b " frame table diagrammatic sketch is as type identifier, and its identification document is monochromatic file or colored file." c " frame table shows the file attribute identifier, its sign sender, time of reception, the page number, transmission (reception) pattern etc.

Furthermore, in Figure 39, shown thumbnail for image file.

As mentioned above, clearly show different types of fileinfo simply; Search Results may be explained effectively to the user thus.

Return Figure 38, in step S402, Search Control portion 300 instruction memory business 224 are searched for and are stored in the control data of storage unit 11 neutralizations by 108 management of external search server.

In step S403, the control data of storer business 224 from be stored in control module 11 is extracted in the control data that satisfies search instruction that receives among the step S402.

In step S404, storer professional 224 sends Search Results to Search Control portion 300.Here, for example, as Search Results, the URL of the documentation ﹠ info of the data that received and the position of designation data is sent to Search Control portion 300.

In step S405, Search Control portion 300 issuing commands obtain the real data of the control data that is arranged in the URL that is included in Search Results to external search server data acquiring unit 620.

In step S406, external search server data acquiring unit 620 sends to obtain to instruct to external search server 108 and obtains real data.

In step S407, external search server data acquiring unit 620 obtains real data from the URL of external search server 108 by appointment.

In step S408, the external search server data acquiring unit 620 that obtains real data sends this real data to Search Control portion 300.

In step S409, the Search Control portion 300 that has obtained real data is stored in Search Results that obtains among the step S404 and the real data that obtains by storer business 224 in step S408 in storage unit 11.

By in the operation of step S402 in the step S409, duplicate by multi-function peripheral device 10 by the control data of external search server 108 management.

Is identical with step S212 in Figure 36 to the operation among the S218 in the operation of step S410 in the S416, omits the description that repeats.

Because top operation, without any extra operation, and even before actual duplicating, the user can the processing controls data and need not distinguish that whether control data is by multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

Note when the search result data that in storage unit 11, store by storer business 224 be ephemeral data, and may be because memory span and be deleted automatically the time, the user can duplicate these data.

The example 1 of output function in network equipment

Figure 40 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to first example of the output function of the network equipment of output order.

In the following description, use print processing as an example.Certainly, present embodiment can be applied to other processes, for example shows or other visual operations.

In this example, on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107, the user prints the desired data output of the control data of being managed by external search server 108 from multi-function peripheral device 10.

As shown in figure 40, in step S501, personal computer 108 sends print command to multi-functional peripheral unit 10.Here, for example, on the screen picture of the Search Results on the web browser that is presented at operation on the personal computer 107 (with reference to Figure 39), the file that user's selection will be printed, and further press print button.Be sent to Search Control portion 300 owing to press the print command of print button generation by Network 223.

For example, as shown in figure 39, by choosing the right that check box is chosen in Figure 39 file, and press print button by " COPY0001[108B] " indication; Thus, demonstration print setting screen image as shown in figure 41.

Figure 41 is the chart that the example of the screen display that is used for printing is shown.

In the print setting screen image shown in Figure 41, user's selective printing condition, the for example umber of the order of print file (when having selected a plurality of files and having supressed the print button that is used to print, these clauses and subclauses are effectively), printed copy, duplex printing and other; And the printing equipment that will be used to print.In Figure 41, show and to select multi-function peripheral device 10 or external search server 108.

When having selected print conditions and printing equipment, and when supressing print button, selected file is printed by selected printing equipment under the print conditions of selecting.

Return Figure 40, in step S502, Search Control portion 300 instruction memory business 224 are searched for and are stored in the control data of being managed by external search server 108 in the storage unit 11.

In step S503, the control data of storer business 224 from be stored in control module 11 is extracted in the control data that satisfies search instruction that receives among the step S502.

In step S504, storer professional 224 sends Search Results to Search Control portion 300.Here, for example, as Search Results, the URL of the documentation ﹠ info of the data that received and the position of designation data is sent to Search Control portion 300.

In step S505, Search Control portion 300 issuing commands obtain the real data of the control data that is arranged in the URL that is included in Search Results to external search server data acquiring unit 620.

In step S506, external search server data acquiring unit 620 sends to obtain to instruct to external search server 108 and obtains real data.

In step S507, external search server data acquiring unit 620 obtains the real data that is in the URL that is included in Search Results from external search server 108.

In step S508, the external search server data acquiring unit 620 that obtains real data sends real data to Search Control portion 300.

In step S509, Search Control portion 300 sends and is used for printing the print command of the file of being indicated by the URL that is included in Search Results to print service 221.In this step, because Search Control portion 300 receives different print conditions from web browser, these different print conditions also are sent to print service 221 by Network 223.

In step S510, print service 221 is carried out and is printed.

In step S511, when print procedure was finished owing to mistake or finished, the result was sent to Search Control portion 300.

In step S512, Search Control portion 300 creates the HTML screen picture based on print result and is used to show print result, and HTML screen picture data are provided to the web browser of operation on personal computer 107.

Because top operation, by using the web browser of operation on personal computer 107, the user can print the desired data output of the control data of being managed by external search server 108 from multi-function peripheral device 10.

According to this example, control data that external personal computer 107 can long-range search be managed in multi-function peripheral device 10 and the control data of management in the search server 108 externally, and can the visual search result.

The example 2 of the output function in network equipment

Figure 42 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to second example of the output function of the network equipment of output order.

In the following description, use print procedure as an example.But certainly, present embodiment can be applied to other processes, for example shows or other visual operations.

In example 1, on the web browser of operation on the personal computer 107, the user prints the desired data of the control data of being managed by external search server 108 from multi-function peripheral device 10.

In the present example, as shown in Figure 42, the user is from the desired data of external search server 108B (it is different with external search server 108A) printing by the control data of external search server 108 management.

The operation of step S601 in Figure 42 in the S608 is identical with step S501 among Figure 40 to the operation among the S508, except step S501 in the S508 outside search server 108 by substituting to the external search server 108A among the S608 at step S601.Omitted the description that repeats.

In step S609, Search Control portion 300 sends and is used for printing the print command of the file of being indicated by the URL that is included in Search Results to external search server 108B.In this step, because Search Control portion 300 also receives different print conditions from web browser, these different print conditions also are sent to external search server 108B by Network 223.

In step S610, external search server 108B carries out printing.

In step S611, when print procedure was finished owing to mistake or finished, the result was sent to Search Control portion 300.

In step S612, Search Control portion 300 creates the HTML screen picture based on print result and is used to show print result, and HTML screen picture data are provided to the web browser of operation on personal computer 107.

Because top operation, by using the web browser of operation on personal computer 107, the user can print the desired data of the control data of being managed by external search server 108A from external search server 108B.

According to this example, control data that external personal computer 107 can long-range search be managed in multi-function peripheral device 10 and the control data of externally managing among the search server 108A, and can the visual search result.

For example, 108B does not have double side printing function when the external search server, and the demonstration that printing function is selected can change in response to the printing function of external search server 108B; For example, can show that double side printing function forbids.

Furthermore, for example, in multi-function peripheral device 10, be used for by choosing check box to come the selection screen picture of selective printing device, can be shown as of printing equipment alternative with the different external search server 108B of external search server 108A (wherein having stored the desired file that will be printed).

The example 3 of the output function in network equipment

Figure 43 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the 3rd example of the output function of the network equipment of output order.

In the present example, as shown in Figure 43, the user prints from external search server 108 and sends and by the desired data of the control data of external search server 108 management.

The operation of step S701 in Figure 43 in the S704 is identical with step S501 among Figure 40 to the operation among the S504.Omitted the description that repeats.

In step S705, Search Control portion 300 sends and is used for printing the print command of the file of being indicated by the URL that is included in Search Results to external search server 108B.In this step, because Search Control portion 300 also receives different print conditions from web browser, these different print conditions also are sent to external search server 108B by Network 223.

In step S706, external search server 108 is carried out and is printed.

In step S707, when print procedure was finished owing to mistake or finished, the result was sent to Search Control portion 300.

In step S708, Search Control portion 300 creates the HTML screen picture based on print result and is used to show print result, and HTML screen picture data are provided to the web browser of operation on personal computer 107.

Because top operation, by using the web browser of operation on personal computer 107, the user can print the desired data of the control data of being managed by external search server 108 from external search server 108B.

For example, when external search server 108 does not have double side printing function, the demonstration that printing function is selected can change in response to the printing function of external search server 108; For example, can show that double side printing function forbids.

Furthermore, for example, when external search server 108 does not have printing function, just, external search server 108 is the servers that only are used for management document, being used for the selection screen picture of selective printing device,, can show that the selection of this device is forbidden by choosing check box.

The example of facsimile transmission in network equipment

Figure 44 is the sequential chart that illustrates in the present embodiment in response to the example of the facsimile transmission operation of the network equipment of facsimile transmission instruction.

In the following description, the display unit 109 (for example, guidance panel) of supposing multi-function peripheral device 10 is to be used for and will to fax to specific address by the desired data (for example, address book) of the control data of external search server 108 management.

As shown in figure 44, in step S801, user's indicating device user interface (UI) 201 begins to send.

Figure 45 A is the chart of example that the screen display of facsimile transmission in this example operation is shown.

At length, Figure 45 A illustrates guidance panel and is used to point out the user to issue the instruction of facsimile transmission at the example of original state.

In this example, the guidance panel of multi-function peripheral device 10 comprises display unit, for example has the LCD (LCD) of function of touchpad; And input block, be used to import different instructions, for example numeric keypad.

Shown in Figure 45 A, in address book, two addresses " A company " and " B factory " have been registered by multi-function peripheral device 10 management.Furthermore, the address except registration comprises that in address book button or other are used to be provided with the unit of facsimile transmission condition, for example literal size or paper size.

In the screen picture shown in Figure 45 A, the user presses the button of " A company " and " B factory " and select the address in address book, perhaps by using numeric keypad directly to import telephone number.In this manner, specified the facsimile transmission condition.

When the search button that shows on the address book of pressing in Figure 45 A, in response to this, multi-function peripheral device 10 search are by the control data of external search server 108 management, and show the address book that obtains like this.

Figure 45 B is the chart that the example of the screen display of facsimile transmission operation after the data search in this example is shown.

Shown in Figure 45 B, show two address books by 108 management of external search server, just, " C department " and " D sales department ".

Furthermore, in Figure 45 B, explicit identification accords with two address books " C department " and " the D sales department " that identifies by the address book of external search server 108 management.In Figure 45 B, be positioned at word " outside " indication corresponding address book below the name of address book by 108 management of external search server.Because whether this may distinguish and perhaps register facsimile transmission addressee's address in the address book by 108 management of external search server in the address book by multi-function peripheral device 10 management

In step S802, device users interface (UI) 201 uses the instruction that 212 issues are used for facsimile transmission to facsimile recorder.

In step S803, the facsimile recorder that having received the fax instruction is used 212 that will obtain and selected document facsimiles that will send to the opposing party and is given network equipment 223 in step S701.Then, facsimile transmission begins.

In step S804 and step S805, facsimile recorder is used 212 and is shown the ongoing message of indication facsimile transmission.

In step S806, network equipment 223 sends the facsimile recorder of selected file to the opposing party.Should notice that the order of step S804 and step S806 can put upside down.

After the facsimile transmission of file was finished, in S809, device users interface 201 received the transmission result from the opposing party's facsimile recorder at step S807.

In step S810, whether device users interface 201 prompting users are chosen in the address of using in the facsimile transmission and copy to by in the address book of multi-function peripheral device 10 management (with reference to figure 46A).

Figure 46 A and Figure 46 B are the charts of example that the screen display of facsimile transmission in this example operation is shown.

At length, Figure 46 A is illustrated in the example of the screen display of the facsimile transmission operation among the step S810 among Figure 44, and Figure 46 B is illustrated in the example of the screen display of the facsimile transmission operation among the step S812 among Figure 44.

Return Figure 44, in step S811, when having selected "Yes", the issue register instruction.Program continues to step S812 then.When having selected "No", EOP (end of program).

In step S812, employed address registration is in address book in facsimile transmission, and this address book is stored in the storage unit 11 of multi-function peripheral device 10 by storer business 224.

In this manner, from the address book by 108 management of external search server, the address reproduction that uses in facsimile transmission is in the address book by multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

In addition, after the registration of the address in step S812, as shown in Figure 46 B, be copied in the address book by multi-function peripheral device 10 management by the address book " C department " of external search server 108 management, and word " outside " be positioned at address book title below.

When because wrong facsimile transmission failure, for example, the address of using in facsimile transmission is wrong, can skips steps S810 and step subsequently come complete process.Because this may stop the registration misaddress, just, do not need to be registered to address by in the address book of multi-function peripheral device 10 management.

In addition, in step S810, the prompting that whether should duplicate can be carried out after facsimile transmission finishes.Just, though in specifying facsimile transmission, prompting may be carried out during employed address in step S801, preferably after facsimile transmission, carry out this prompting, feasible prevention input error address.

When facsimile transmission is successful after the process in step S809, registered address automatically.Because this has improved user's operability.

In the present example, the display unit 109 of having described multi-function peripheral device 10 is used for being faxed to the place of appointment by the desired data (for example, address book) of the control data of external search server 108 management.Certainly, this example not only is confined to address book, but the data of any kind of all are applicable.

In addition, though top description the " facsimile transmission ", this example not only is confined to this, is sent to assigned address but can be applicable to data.

Though for the purpose of example is described the present invention with reference to the specific embodiment of selecting, it is evident that the present invention is not limited to these embodiment, but can carry out multiple modification and not depart from key concept of the present invention and scope by those of ordinary skill in the art it.

Present patent application is based at Japan of Japan of on February 8th, 2007 application patented claim 2007-029590 and application on April 6th, 2007 formerly patented claim 2007-100786 formerly, and its whole contents is introduced herein as a reference.

Claims

1. network equipment is connected to external device (ED) and carries out data communication with external device (ED) by http protocol by network, and described network equipment comprises:

The display message creating unit, configuration is used for creating one or more of html data, XML data and RSS data, is used for the data presentation Search Results that obtains based on by search unit.

2. network equipment as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

Output unit, configuration are used for visually exporting the data that obtained by search unit.

3. network equipment as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

Transmitting element disposes the instruction that is used to send the Search Results that is obtained by search unit that is used in response to receiving from external device (ED), the device of appointment during the transmission Search Results extremely instructs.

4. network equipment as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

Server data search unit, configuration are used for based on the searching request from the external device (ED) reception, carry out data search by using the external search server that is connected by network;

Wherein, the display message creating unit is further created one or more in html data, XML data and the RSS data, is used for based on the data presentation Search Results by the acquisition of server data search unit.

5. network equipment as claimed in claim 4 further comprises:

The server data acquiring unit, configuration is used for obtaining ferret out information from the external search server, and described ferret out information is identified for the data of designated external search server as ferret out;

Wherein, search unit extracts predetermined data based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED) from ferret out information.

6. network equipment as claimed in claim 4 further comprises:

Server data administrative unit, configuration are used for being used to specify the data of external search server as ferret out in response to the duplicate instructions that receives from external device (ED) in the network equipment registration.

7. network equipment as claimed in claim 4, wherein, in response to output unit standard instruction from network equipment, by using the external search server, output unit is visually exported the data that obtained by the server data search unit, described output unit standard instruction specify to be output to device.

8. network equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the display message creating unit is created one or more in html data, XML data and the RSS data, is used to impel external device (ED) inputted search request msg.

9. network equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein, be stored in control data in the storage unit and comprise in communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address date one or more.

10. network equipment as claimed in claim 1, wherein, the data that obtained by search unit comprise one or more in communication history data, operation historical data, image file, device special function data, metering data, counting and the address date.

11. network equipment as claimed in claim 1 further comprises:

Authority information receiving element, configuration are used for receiving user right information from the external search server,

Wherein, each the user right information that is associated in a plurality of parts of cell stores and the control data of network equipment, described user right information allow to extract the control corresponding data by the user, and

Search unit is based on the searching request that receives from external device (ED), extract predetermined data in the part of a plurality of parts of the control data from be stored in storage unit, the user right information that is received by the authority information receiving element allows the user to extract a described part in a plurality of parts of described control data.

12. an image processing system is connected to external device (ED) and carries out data communication with external device (ED) by http protocol by network, this image processing system comprises:

13. image processing system as claimed in claim 12 further comprises:

14. image processing system as claimed in claim 12 further comprises:

Transmitting element, configuration are used for the instruction of the Search Results that obtained by search unit in response to the transmission that receives from external device (ED), send the device of Search Results appointment to the instruction.

15. image processing system as claimed in claim 12 further comprises:

Server data search unit, configuration are used for carrying out data search based on the searching request from the external device (ED) reception by the external search server that connects by network;

Wherein, the display message creating unit is further created one or more in html data, XML data and the RSS data, is used for the data presentation Search Results that obtains based on by the server data search unit.

16. image processing system as claimed in claim 15 further comprises:

17. image processing system as claimed in claim 15 further comprises:

Server data administrative unit, configuration are used in response to the duplicate instructions from the external device (ED) reception, for the image processing system registration is used to specify the data of external search server as ferret out.

18. data search method, be used in network equipment with the storage unit that is used for storage control data, described network equipment is connected to external device (ED) by network and by the data communication of http protocol execution with external device (ED), this data search method comprises:

The display message foundation step, one or more in establishment html data, XML data and the RSS data are used for based on the data presentation Search Results by the search unit acquisition.

19. data search method as claimed in claim 18, wherein

Search step comprises

The output step is visually exported the data that obtained by search unit.

20. data search method as claimed in claim 18 further comprises:

Forwarding step, in response to the instruction of the transmission that receives from external device (ED) by the Search Results of search unit acquisition, the device of appointment during the transmission Search Results extremely instructs.