JP2000315143A - Data processor, its processing method and storage medium storing computer readable program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To optionally construct an excellent operation environment capable of previously preventing the lacking of resources such as sheets of paper or staples on the way of printing processing and efficiently specifying substitutive printing processing using another output format. SOLUTION: A CPU judges whether a printer device has the quantity of a prescribed resource allowing the execution of set printing processing or not on the basis of the acquired quantity information of the prescribed resource for the printer device, and at the time of deciding that the quantity of the prescribed resource allowing the execution of the set printing processing is not stored in the printer device, displays a warning message on a CRT 16 and then displays another output format allowed to be executed by the quantity of the prescribed resource stored in the printer device on the CRT 16.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a data processing apparatus and a data processing method capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices connected to a predetermined communication medium, and a storage medium storing a computer readable program. It is.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art In recent years, PCs, printers, scanners,
With the spread of peripheral devices such as digital cameras, LA
Networks such as N have become widespread, and by sharing printers, modems, and image reading devices on the network, the environment has become available to use all devices on the network.

[0003]

However, there is no method for confirming the amount of resources such as paper and staples of the printer from the data processing apparatus, and even if there is, there is no method for simply confirming the absence of paper or staples. If the print processing is set to use more than the remaining amount of the resources of the printer, the printer resources are insufficient during the print processing and the print processing is interrupted. was there.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the first to twenty-third inventions according to the present invention is to provide an image processing apparatus which is capable of executing the above-mentioned processing when the output processing by the printer is instructed. Based on the amount information of the predetermined resources obtained from the printer, it is determined whether or not the printer has an amount of the predetermined resources that can execute the set print processing, and the amount of the predetermined resources that can execute the set print processing is determined. If it is determined that the printer is not in the printer, a warning message urging the replenishment of a predetermined resource is displayed, and then another output format that can be executed based on the amount of paper and staples in the printer is displayed, so that the printing process is performed. In addition to preventing the printer from running out of resources such as paper and staples in the middle of the process, it is also possible to efficiently specify alternative print processing using other output formats. It is to provide a storage medium on which data processing apparatus and data processing method and a computer has stored readable program can be constructed freely superior operating environment that can.

[0005]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided a communication medium (LANs 100, 12 shown in FIG. 1).
0, 130), which is a data processing device capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected thereto, and designating means for designating any one of the printer devices (on the display screen shown in FIG. 11). And operating a cursor or the like with a mouse or the like shown in FIG. 2) and setting means (for example, FIGS. 12 to 14) for setting print processing for any one of the printer devices specified by the specifying means.
(A display screen shown in FIG. 2) and acquisition means (a CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2 executing a control program stored in the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2) for acquiring predetermined resource amount information from any of the printer devices designated by the designation means. Fetch)
Determining means for determining, based on the amount information of the predetermined resource of the printer device acquired by the acquiring device, whether or not the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting device; CPU shown in FIG.
2 executes the stored control program to perform the determination process).

A second invention according to the present invention is a data processing device capable of performing data communication with a printer device (a printer 18 shown in FIG. 2) via a predetermined communication medium. (For example, display screens shown in FIGS. 12 to 14), and acquisition means (for executing the control program stored in the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2) for acquiring predetermined resource amount information from the printer. And performing a print process set by the setting unit based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained by the obtaining unit. Determination means (the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2 executes the stored control program to perform the determination processing).

A third invention according to the present invention is characterized in that the determining means determines that the printer has a predetermined resource of an amount capable of executing the print processing set by the setting means, Control means for controlling a printing operation of any one of the printer devices based on an execution instruction for the printing process to be performed (the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2 executes a control program stored therein to control a printing output process); If the determination unit determines that the printer does not have an amount of the predetermined resource that can execute the print processing set by the setting unit, a warning message (a warning message shown in FIG. 36) urging the replenishment of the predetermined resource is displayed. Warning means (C shown in FIG. 2)
PU2 executes a control program stored therein to perform a warning display process).

According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, after the warning message is displayed by the warning unit, the amount of the predetermined resource in the printer is determined based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer acquired by the acquisition unit. Alternative output format display means for displaying another output format different from the output format set by the executable setting means (the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2 executes a control program stored therein to select the output format shown in FIG. 37) Window 1001) and selecting means for selecting another output format displayed by the alternative output format displaying means (mouse 13 or the like shown in FIG.
7 for selecting and instructing another output format to be displayed in the output format selection window 1001), and the control unit performs printing related to any one of the printer devices according to the other output format selected by the selection unit. The operation is controlled.

According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the acquisition means includes:
Acquiring predetermined resource amount information from the printer device, and acquiring predetermined resource amount information reserved by a job spooled in the printer device, wherein the determination unit is obtained by the acquisition unit And determining whether the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting means, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device and the reserved predetermined resource amount information. is there.

In a sixth aspect of the present invention, the predetermined resource amount information includes a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples.

In a seventh aspect according to the present invention, a plurality of other data processing devices capable of communicating with the data processing device are connected on the predetermined communication medium.

In an eighth aspect according to the present invention, any one of the plurality of data processing devices can be registered as a management server.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, the peripheral device includes a printer, a facsimile, a digital copier, a scanner, a digital camera, and a modem.

[0014] A tenth invention according to the present invention is a data processing method in a data processing device capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium. A designation step (step S304 in FIG. 32) for designating one of the printer apparatuses; a setting step (step not shown) for setting print processing for any of the printer apparatuses designated by the designation step; An acquisition step (Step S601 in FIG. 38) of acquiring predetermined resource amount information from any one of the printer apparatuses specified in the step, and a predetermined resource amount information of the printer apparatus acquired in the acquisition step. A determining step of determining whether or not the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step; Step in Figure 38 S602) and those having a.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention relates to a data processing method in a data processing device capable of performing data communication with a printer device via a predetermined communication medium, wherein a setting for setting a printing process for the printer device is provided. A step (not shown), an acquiring step of acquiring predetermined resource amount information from the printer device (step S601 in FIG. 38),
A judging step of judging whether or not the printer device has an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step based on the amount information of the predetermined resource of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step ( Step S602 in FIG. 38).

A twelfth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that when the determination step determines that the predetermined amount of resources capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step is present in the printer device, the setting step includes A first print execution step (step S603 in FIG. 38) for executing a print operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for the print processing to be executed, and an amount capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step by the determination step If it is determined that the predetermined resource does not exist in the printer device, a warning step (step S604 in FIG. 38) for displaying a warning message urging replenishment of the predetermined resource is provided.

According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, after the warning message is displayed in the warning step, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step, the amount of the predetermined resource in the printer device is determined. An alternative output format display step of displaying another output format different from the output format set by the executable setting step (step S in FIG. 38)
606, S607) and a selection step of selecting another output format displayed in the alternative output format display step (FIG. 38).
Step S608), and a second print execution step (Step S609 in FIG. 38) for executing a print operation relating to the printer device in another output format selected by the selection means.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, in the obtaining step (step S601 in FIG. 38), the information on the amount of the predetermined resource is obtained from the printer, and is reserved by a job spooled in the printer. The determination step (Step S602 in FIG. 38) includes the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device and the reserved predetermined resource amount information obtained in the obtaining step. Based on the above, it is determined whether or not the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources that can execute the print processing set in the setting step.

In a fifteenth aspect according to the present invention, the predetermined resource amount information includes a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples.

According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the peripheral device includes a printer, a facsimile, a digital copier, a scanner, a digital camera, and a modem.

According to a seventeenth aspect of the present invention, a computer readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium is provided. In the stored storage medium, a designation step (step S304 in FIG. 32) for designating one of the printer devices, and a setting for setting print processing for the one of the printer devices designated by the designation process Process (process not shown)
An acquisition step (step S601 in FIG. 38) for acquiring predetermined resource amount information from any of the printer devices designated in the designation step; and a predetermined resource amount information for the printer apparatus acquired in the acquisition step A determination process (step S602 in FIG. 38) for determining whether or not the predetermined amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the printing process set in the setting process is present in the printer device. Is stored in a storage medium.

An eighteenth invention according to the present invention is a storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a data processing method in a data processing apparatus capable of performing data communication with a printer via a predetermined communication medium. A setting step of setting print processing for the printer (a step not shown); an obtaining step of obtaining predetermined resource amount information from the printer (step S601 in FIG. 38); A determination step (step S602 in FIG. 38) of determining whether or not the printer apparatus has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step, based on the determined amount information of the predetermined resources of the printer apparatus. ) Is stored in a storage medium.

A nineteenth invention according to the present invention is characterized in that, when it is determined in the determining step that the predetermined amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step is present in the printer device, the setting is performed in the setting step. A first print execution step (step S603 in FIG. 38) for executing a print operation related to the printer device based on an execution instruction for the print processing to be executed, and an amount capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step by the determination step If it is determined that the predetermined resource does not exist in the printer device, a computer-readable program provided with a warning step (step S604 in FIG. 38) for displaying a warning message urging replenishment of the predetermined resource is stored in the storage medium. It was done.

According to a twentieth aspect of the present invention, after the warning message is displayed in the warning step, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device acquired in the acquiring step, the amount of the predetermined resource in the printer device is determined. An alternative output format display step of displaying another output format different from the output format set by the executable setting step (step S in FIG. 38)
606, S607) and a selection step of selecting another output format displayed in the alternative output format display step (FIG. 38).
Computer-readable program having a step S608) and a second print execution step (step S609 in FIG. 38) for executing a print operation relating to the printer device in another output format selected by the selection means. Is stored in a storage medium.

According to a twenty-first aspect of the present invention, in the obtaining step (step S601 in FIG. 38), the information of the amount of the predetermined resource is obtained from the printer, and the resource is reserved by the job spooled in the printer. The determination step (Step S602 in FIG. 38) includes the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device and the reserved predetermined resource amount information obtained in the obtaining step. And a computer readable program for determining whether the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the printing process set in the setting step based on the setting process.

In a twenty-second invention according to the present invention, the predetermined resource amount information stores a computer-readable program including a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples in a storage medium. is there.

According to a twenty-third aspect of the present invention, in the peripheral device, the computer-readable program including a printer device, a facsimile device, a digital copying machine, a scanner device, a digital camera device, and a modem device is stored in a storage medium. It was done.

[0028]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] <Description of Apparatus> FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining the system configuration of a network device including a data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

In the figure, a printer 102 is a printer having an open architecture and a network board (N
B) It is connected to the network via 101. N
B101 includes an Ethernet interface 10Base-2 having a coaxial connector and a 10
Through a local area network interface such as Base-T, a local area network (LA)
N) 100, 120, 130.

PC103, PC104, PC111, P
Multiple personal computers (PC) such as Cl12
Are also connected to the LANs 100 and 130,
C can communicate with the NB 101 under the control of the network operating system.

Therefore, one of the PCs, for example, the PC 103
Can be used as a PC for network device management. Further, the printer 105 may be locally connected to the PC 104 as a local printer.

A PC functioning as a file server
Reference numeral 106 is connected to the LAN 100, and manages access to files stored in a large-capacity (for example, 10 billion bytes) network disk 107.

PC 104 functioning as a print server
Manages printing to a printer such as the locally connected printer 105 or the remote printer 102.

Similarly, P which functions as a printer server
The C 115 manages printing to a printer such as the printer 116 connected locally or the printer 102 at a remote place.

Further, it is possible to make the PC 115 function as a scanner server and manage a scanner such as the scanner 117 connected locally or the scanner 110 at a remote place. The scanner 110 is connected to the LAN 100 via a network board or the like. The digital copier 118 provides a function as a printer or a scanner under the control of the image processing unit 119.

In the network shown in FIG. 1, in order to efficiently communicate between various network members, Nov
network software such as ell or UNIX can be used. For example, Novell's Net
Software (registered trademark of Novell, hereinafter abbreviated) can be used. The detailed description of the software package is described in online documentation included in the NetWare package (included in the NetWare package from Novell), and thus the description is omitted.

PC 103 and PC 104 are respectively
Generation of data file, LA of generated data file
This is a general PC that can perform transmission to the N100, reception of files from the LAN 100, and display and / or processing of those files.

Although FIG. 1 shows a personal computer device (PC), other computer devices suitable for executing network software may be used. For example, if UNIX software is used, UNIX workstations may be connected to the network, and these workstations are used with the PC shown.

Normally, the LAN 100 provides a service to a relatively local user group, for example, a user group on one floor or a plurality of consecutive floors in one building.

On the other hand, a wide area network (WAN) may be constructed as the users move away from each other, such as in different buildings or different prefectures. Basically,
A WAN is a collection of LANs formed by connecting several LANs with a high-speed digital line such as an integrated services digital network (ISDN). For example, as shown in FIG.
Are connected by the backbone 140 to form a WAN. LAN100, LAN12
0, the devices respectively connected to the LAN 130 are W
It is possible to access functions of devices connected to other LANs via the AN connection.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a client configuration according to the first embodiment of the present invention. A predetermined peripheral device (printer, scanner, modem, (Including a composite image processing apparatus) can be communicated with another locally-connected data processing apparatus by a predetermined protocol.

In the figure, reference numeral 1 denotes a system bus, and each unit to be described below is connected to the system bus 1. 2 is a CPU (Central Process)
ngUnit).

3 is a program memory (referred to as PMEM)
Then, the program for this processing is appropriately stored in the hard disk 1
Select / read from 0 and execute with CPU2. Data input from the keyboard 12 is stored as code information in the PMEM 3 which is also a text memory.

Reference numeral 4 denotes a communication control unit, which controls input / output data at the communication port 5. The signal output from the communication port 5 is transmitted via the communication line 6 to the communication port of another device 7 on the network.

Communication with a printer or an image reading device (scanner) shared on the network is performed via the communication control unit 4. In the present embodiment, a network such as a LAN will be described. However, it goes without saying that the present invention is applicable even when a communication port and a communication line connected to the communication control unit 4 are general public lines.

An external storage device controller 8 controls access to a data file disk, for example, a floppy disk (FD) 9 or a hard disk (HD) 10.

Reference numeral 11 denotes an input control unit, which is a keyboard 1
2. An input device such as a mouse 13 is connected. The operator operates the keyboard 12 to issue a system operation command or the like. Reference numeral 16 denotes a CRT device (CRT).
A pointing device (referred to as a PD) is used to instruct processing of image information on the display 16, and the mouse 13 is used in the present embodiment.

Thus, the cursor on the CRT 16 is moved to X,
It arbitrarily moves in the Y direction and selects a command icon on the command menu to give a processing instruction, and also gives an instruction on an edit target, a drawing position and the like.

Reference numeral 14 denotes a video image memory (referred to as a VRAM) which develops drawing data (bitmap data) to be displayed on the CRT 16, reads out the data as appropriate via the display output control section 15, and displays the contents on the CRT 16. Is done. A printer control unit 17 controls output of data to the connected printer 18.

Reference numeral 1A denotes an image reading device control section, which controls image reading of the connected image reading device 1B. The external device control unit 19 controls the operation of the external device via the printer control unit 17 or the image reading device control unit 1A.

The image reading server device according to the present invention requires the components of the image reading device control section 1A and the image reading device 1B, but the client side device has the communication control as described above. The same components shared on the server side via the unit 4 and the communication port 5 can be used.

Further, in the configuration of FIG. 2, even if the image reading device and the image reading device are physically separate components, the image reading device has the same function as one component including the image reading device. And

Note that the program stored in the ROM in this embodiment may be stored in a storage medium such as a hard disk (HD) 10 or a floppy disk (FD) 9 directly connected to the apparatus. Further, it may be stored on another device connected by a network. Further, the program of the present invention stores the hard disk (H
D) 10 or a storage medium such as a floppy disk (FD) 9 or a system or apparatus via a network.

FIG. 3 shows the digital copying machine 11 shown in FIG.
8 is a cross-sectional view illustrating the configuration of FIG.

In the drawing, reference numeral 2080 denotes an automatic document feeder (ADF), which is a document table (platen glass) 2 of the copying machine 118 one by one from the document bundle placed on the document feeder.
001. A scanner 2002 includes an original illumination lamp 2003, a scanning mirror 2004, and the like. The scanner 2002 is reciprocally driven in a predetermined direction by a motor (not shown) to scan an original, and
Through the lens 2006, the reflected light from the original transmitted through the lens 2007 is imaged on a CCD image sensor (CCD) in the easy sensor unit 2008.

The image sensor unit 2008 generates image signals by subjecting the reflected light from the original to electric signals to predetermined image processing. An exposure control unit 2009 includes a laser generation unit, a polygon scanner, and the like. The exposure control unit 2009 generates a laser beam 2019 modulated based on an image signal generated by the image sensor unit 2008, and
Irradiation.

Reference numeral 2010 denotes an image forming unit, which is a photosensitive drum 2
011 and 1 arranged around the photosensitive drum 2011
Next charger 2012, Developing device 2013, Transfer charger 201
6, a separation charger 2017, a pre-exposure lamp 2014, a cleaner 2015, and the like.

In the image forming section 2010, the photosensitive drum 2011 is driven by a motor (not shown) and rotates in a direction indicated by an arrow A in the figure. The primary charger 2012 charges the photosensitive drum 2011 to a predetermined potential. The photosensitive drum 2011 charged by the primary charger 2012 is irradiated with the laser light 2019 generated by the exposure control unit 2009 to form an electrostatic latent image. The developing device 2013 includes:
The electrostatic latent image formed on the photoconductor drum 2011 is developed, and the electrostatic latent image on the photoconductor drum 2011 is visualized as a toner image.

Reference numeral 2021 denotes the first cassette, and 2022 denotes the second cassette.
The cassette, 2023 is a third cassette, and 2024 is a fourth cassette, which stores transfer paper as a recording medium. The transfer papers stored in the first cassette 2021, the second cassette 2022, the third cassette 2023 or the fourth cassette 2024 are the big-up rollers 2025, 2026, 20
27, 2028, and the paper feed roller 202
9, 2030, 2031 and 2032.
To the image forming unit 2 by the registration roller 2033.
010.

The transfer charger 2016 is connected to the photosensitive drum 20
Then, the visualized toner image on the transfer sheet 11 is transferred onto the transferred transfer paper. The cleaner 2015 cleans the residual toner on the photosensitive drum 2011 after the transfer of the toner image onto the transfer paper. The pre-exposure lamp 2014 is connected to the cleaner device 2
015 after cleaning of residual toner
The residual charge on the upper side is erased.

The separation charger 2017 separates the transfer paper after the transfer of the toner image from the photosensitive drum 2011.
Reference numeral 2034 denotes a transport belt which transports the transfer paper separated by the separation charger 2017 to the fixing device 2035. Fixing device 2
Reference numeral 035 fixes the toner image on the transfer paper by pressing and heating the transfer paper. Reference numeral 2036 denotes a discharge roller which discharges the transfer paper on which the toner image has been fixed by the fixing device 2035 to the outside of the copying machine (main body) 118.

Reference numeral 2037 denotes a paper discharge flapper,
The transfer path of the transfer sheet is switched to either the 38 side or the discharge path 2043 side. Reference numeral 2040 denotes a lower transport path which transfers the transfer paper that has been transported by the paper discharge roller 2036 and the reversing roller 2045 and turned over via the reversing path 2039 to the re-feeding path 2
041.

Reference numeral 2042 denotes a paper re-feed roller, and a paper re-feed path 2
The transfer paper guided to 041 is re-fed to the image forming unit 2010. Reference numeral 2044 denotes a discharge roller, which is a discharge flapper 2037.
The transfer paper conveyed when the paper is switched to the discharge path 2043 by the paper discharge flapper 2037 is discharged outside the apparatus.

In the copying machine 118, when performing double-sided recording (double-sided copying), the discharge flapper 203
7 is moved upward to transfer the copied transfer paper to the transport path 203.
8. The sheet is guided to the re-feeding path 2041 via the reversing path 2039 and the lower conveying path 2040. At this time, the reversing roller 204
5, the trailing edge of the transfer paper is completely pulled out of the conveyance path 2038, and the transfer paper is drawn into the reversing path 2039 to a position where the transfer paper is bitten by the reversing roller 2045, and then the reversing roller 2045 is reversely rotated. Send to 2040.

When the transfer paper is inverted and discharged from the copying machine (body) 118, the discharge flapper 2037 is raised upward, and the rear end of the transfer paper is left on the transport path 2038 by the reversing roller 2045. Reverse path 203
9, the transfer paper is turned over and sent out to the discharge roller 2044 side by reversing the reversing roller 2045.

Reference numeral 2090 denotes a paper discharge processing device (sorter) for aligning and closing (stapling) the transfer paper discharged from the copying machine 118, and transferring the transfer paper discharged for each sheet to a processing tray 2094. After stacking and aligning, and discharging of a part (one bundle) of image formation is completed, the transfer paper bundle is stapled by a stapler (not shown) in the processing tray 2094 and bundled on the paper discharge tray 2092 or the paper discharge tray 2093. To be discharged. The discharge trays 2093 and 2094 are controlled to move up and down by a motor (not shown), and move to the position of the processing tray 2094 before the image processing operation starts.

Reference numeral 2091 denotes a paper tray on which separator sheets to be inserted between the discharged transfer sheets are stacked. Reference numeral 2095 denotes a Z-folding machine, which is a device for Z-folding the discharged transfer paper.
Reference numeral 2096 denotes a bookbinding machine which binds a part (one book) of the discharged transfer paper to the center and staples it to perform bookbinding. The bound paper bundle is discharged to a discharge tray 2097.

The copying machine (body) 118 has a paper deck 2050 capable of storing, for example, 4000 sheets of transfer paper.
Is equipped. Lifter 20 of paper deck 2050
The reference numeral 51 indicates the amount of the transfer sheet so that the transfer sheet always contacts the pickup roller 2052. The transfer sheet 51 is fed to the main body by the paper feed roller 2053. Also, 100
A multi-bypass tray 2054 capable of storing one transfer sheet is provided.

The developing device 2013 may be one that replenishes the toner by replacing the toner cassette, or one that can directly replenish the toner in the developing device 2013. Further, the developing device 2013 includes the developing device 20.
13 can detect the remaining amount of toner.

Although the monochrome copying machine has been described as an example of the image output apparatus of the present invention, a color copying machine may be used.

In this case, the developing device 2013 supplies yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (B
k) is constituted by the four developing units. The developing device 2013 can individually detect the remaining amounts of various yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (Bk) toners.

Further, the copying machine 118 can detect the remaining amount of transfer paper stored in each of the first to fourth cassettes and the paper deck 2050. Also, a paper discharge processing device (sorter) 2090 transfers the transfer paper bundle to a processing tray 2094.
It is possible to detect the remaining amount of staples stored in the inside.
Further, a sheet discharge processing device (sorter) 2090, a Z-folding machine 2
095, the paper deck 2050 is an optional device and is detachably mounted on the copying machine (main body) 118.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining a control configuration of the copying machine 118 shown in FIG. 3, and the same components as those in FIG. 3 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 3002 denotes an operation unit which is used for making various settings of the digital copying machine (main body) 118 and giving instructions for various operations. Reference numeral 3003 denotes a reader unit.
And a printer unit 30 which reads an original image and outputs image data corresponding to the original image.
04 and the control unit 3009. Printer unit 300
Reference numeral 4 denotes each of the units 2009 to 2045 shown in FIG. 3, and outputs an image corresponding to image data from the reader unit 3003 and the control unit 3009 to a recording medium.

The control unit 3009 is connected to the reader unit 3003, the facsimile unit 3006, the network interface unit 3007, and the hard disk unit 3008, and controls the entire copying machine 118.

The facsimile unit 3006 decompresses the compressed image data received via the telephone line, transfers the decompressed image data to the control unit 3009,
09, and compresses the transferred image data, and transmits the compressed compressed image data via a telephone line. Note that the compressed image data received by the facsimile unit 3006 can be temporarily stored in the hard disk unit 3008.

Network interface 3007
Is an interface between the LAN 130 and the control unit 3009, and represents code data (PDL (Page Description) representing an image transferred through the LAN 130.
ion Language, page description language) data)
Is developed into image data that can be recorded by the printer unit 3004 and passed to the control unit 3009.

The control unit 3009 includes a CPU 3011 and an RO
M3012, RAM3013, etc.
A reader unit 3003, a facsimile unit 3006, a network interface unit 300, based on data stored on the 3012 and data received from other parts.
7, for controlling the flow of data between the hard disk units 3008.

The hard disk unit 3008 includes a hard disk (HD) (not shown), a page memory, and the like, and can store a plurality of image data. A plurality of image data stored in the hard disk unit 3008 can be output in an order according to the editing mode specified by the operation unit 3002 of the digital copier (body) 118.

The control unit 3009 controls the remaining amount of toner, the remaining amount of transfer paper for each size, the remaining amount of staples, the state of the copier (open door, paper jam, etc.), and various optional devices. (Sheet discharging apparatus (sorter) 2090, Z folding machine 2095, paper deck 205 shown in FIG. 3)
0) The presence / absence of attachment is determined by the network interface unit 30
07 or the LAN shown in FIG.
130, the LAN 100, and the devices connected to the WAN constituted by the LAN 120 can be notified.

FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a first network connection configuration displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a main window, on which a menu, a toolbar, icons representing PCs and peripheral devices, and icons 301a to 301f of various functions performed by operating the PCs and peripheral devices are displayed on the toolbar.

For example, the icon 301a is an icon for executing a copy function of reading image data from the selected scanner and outputting the image data to the selected printer. The icon 301b is an icon for executing the FAX function.

The icon 301c is an icon for executing the image data reading function. Icon 301d
Is an icon for executing a function of reading image data and performing OCR processing.

The icon 301e is an icon for executing a function of displaying PC information. Icon 301f
Are icons for executing respective functions for displaying personal tray data. Reference numeral 302 denotes a system display window.

In the system display window 302,
Icons 302a to 302z are icons indicating PCs and peripheral devices shared on the network shown in FIG. These icons are changed and displayed according to the type of device such as a PC, a printer, a scanner, or a FAX modem, or the status such as "processing" or "error occurred".

Reference numeral 302a denotes a root icon, reference numeral 302b denotes a domain in which the own device is logged on, and reference numeral 302c denotes an icon representing the own device. Since the own device is a special device, it is displayed separately from other PCs.

Note that the icons and the peripheral devices which are shared on the network like the icons 302m and 302p but do not have the driver installed have the icons displayed in gray.

The icon 302d indicates that the scanner is currently scanning, and the icon 302n displays a numerical value indicating that three jobs are spooled in the printer, for example, "".

The icon 302z indicates that the driver has been installed but cannot be used for some reason. In this manner, the connection status and status of all PCs and peripheral devices on the network can be graphically confirmed on this screen. In this example, all icons are not displayed for convenience of the screen, but all the icons are displayed using the scroll bar SB arranged on the side of the screen.
It is possible to confirm the connection state of C and peripheral devices.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the combination determination data structure stored in the data processing device shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numerals 601 and 602 denote header parts, the header part 601 is the number of registered combination functions, and the header part 602 is a comment.

Reference numerals 603a to 603d denote data of one function, 603a denotes first device data, 603b
Is the second device data. In the above example, the scanner is the first device data and the printer is the second device data. This combination is also effective in reverse. Function data 6
03c indicates a function to be executed (here, a copy function), and data 603d is a comment. In this embodiment, the data section is configured to be able to store the number of registered functions N, and the data sections 604a to 604d correspond to the N-th data section.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of a copy function setting screen displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG. 2. When the drag and drop operation of the scanner icon shown in FIG. When the combination function is determined to be valid, it is displayed on the CRT 16.

In the figure, reference numerals 401 and 402 denote magnification setting buttons (buttons). The user can designate a desired magnification by instructing to press the button 401 during normal normal-magnification output and pressing the button 402 during reduction / enlargement output.

Buttons 403 and 404 function as input / output paper setting buttons, respectively.
A dialog for setting the paper size, paper orientation, and the like is displayed in conjunction with the instruction to press the button 04, and the paper size and paper orientation can be set. 405 is a button,
Functions as a button for setting the color mode of the input image,
Settings such as color / monochrome / gray scale can be made.

Reference numeral 406 denotes a setting content confirmation display unit, which is a setting content based on the function determined by the combination of icons, in this example, a copy function, so that the magnification is 100%,
This corresponds to a case where input vertical paper “A4”, vertical output paper “A4”, color copy, and the like are displayed.

Reference numeral 407 denotes a ten-key button for setting the number of output copies. 408 is a layout adjustment setting button (button)
When this button 408 is instructed to be pressed, a dialog box for setting a paper output position, a 2in1 output setting, and the like is displayed, and each of the necessary settings can be executed.

Reference numeral 409 denotes a slider for setting the density of the mouse 1
It is configured such that a desired density can be set by the operation instruction of 3. Reference numeral 410 denotes a slider which is used to set the image quality setting with the mouse 13.
A desired quality can be set by the operation instruction of.

Reference numeral 411 denotes a preview area for input size,
Displays the output size and outputable area. A button 412 is used to change input / output devices.
Thus, a dialog for setting an input / output device different from the input / output device based on the icon setting is displayed, and the user can select an intended input / output device. Reference numeral 413 denotes a button. When this button 413 is pressed, the current copy function setting is reset to a predetermined standard copy function setting. 414 is a stop button and 415 is a copy execution button.

FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an error message displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG. 2. In the display screen shown in FIG. 5, the icon combined by the user's mouse operation is valid. CPU2 if not combination
Is displayed based on the stored determination information.

In the figure, reference numeral 501 denotes an error message dialog, which is displayed when a combination is not valid.

In the present embodiment, the error message is displayed by determining whether the combination is valid based on the point in time of the drag and drop operation.
A combination may be determined when a drag operation is performed, and control may be performed so that a drop operation cannot be performed.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a combination function processing procedure accompanying the system configuration display processing. In addition, S201 to S208 indicate each step.

First, in step S201, connection information of all the shared PCs and peripheral devices shown in FIG. 1 on the network, and usage status and status information of those devices are obtained. Then, the information is stored in the PMEM 3 shown in FIG. Next, step S202
To check (acquire) the driver information of the device installed in the device. Then, step S203
A screen for simultaneously displaying the system configuration and the system status shown in FIG. 5 based on the acquired information is displayed on the CRT 16.

Next, in step S204, it is determined whether or not the instruction is valid when an instruction to execute each function is issued. As an operation method, for example, on the screen shown in FIG.
There is a method of drag & drop to 02n. In this case, a copy function is executed.

If it is determined that the combination is not a valid combination, the process proceeds to step S205, and an error message is displayed on the CRT 16 as shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S204 that the combination is valid, the process proceeds to step S206, and a window of the corresponding function is displayed. In the above example, the setting screen of the copy function shown in FIG.
Displayed above.

Next, in step S207, it is determined whether or not copying is to be performed. If there is a copy stop instruction by pressing the button 414 on the virtual operation panel shown in FIG. 7, the process ends.

If it is determined that the copy execution instruction has been issued by the button 415, the flow advances to step S208 to execute the copy in accordance with the settings, and ends the processing.

[Second Embodiment] In the above embodiment, each PC on the network acquires device driver information from the network device through communication with the network device when the power is turned on or the like, and an icon unified for each device. Has described the case where the connection information and the operation state of each device are graphically and virtually displayed using icons of different forms. However, the devices connected to the network include not only printers and scanners as described in the above embodiment, but also The present invention is applicable even if a multi-function device including a printer function and a scanner function or a function of these functions and other functions (including a facsimile, a database function, etc.) is connected. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of device driver information managed by the data processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. At the time of the press instruction, the device driver information of the multifunction device connected to the network, for example, the digital copying machine 118 managed by each device shown in FIG.
Alternatively, the data is managed on the hard disk 10. When a management server that manages device driver information is connected on a network, the information may be obtained from the management server.

In the figure, reference numeral 800 denotes acquisition information;
Is a header section in which a driver name, version information, and comments are set.

Reference numeral 802 denotes page setting information, which includes information on page settings (document size, output paper size, printing direction, page layout, magnification, stamp). Here, the document size and the output paper size are, for example, A4, A3, B4, etc., the printing direction is, for example, portrait, landscape, etc., the page layout is, for example, 1 page / sheet, 2in1, etc. Is, for example, 100%, 1
The stamps are, for example, “Confidential” and “C
personal "and the like.

Reference numeral 803 denotes finishing information, which includes a printing method, a binding direction, and a paper discharging method. Here, the printing method is, for example, normal printing, bookbinding printing, double-sided printing, OHP printing, etc., the binding direction is, for example, vertical or horizontal, and the paper discharging method is
For example, sorting, grouping, rotation sorting, and the like.

Reference numeral 804 denotes paper feed information, which includes various paper feed setting information (paper feed method, OHP print detailed setting). Here, the paper feeding method is, for example, cassette 1, manual feed, and the like, and the OHP printing detailed setting is a paper feeding port, a middle sheet specification, a paper type, and the like at the time of OHP printing setting.

Reference numeral 805 denotes device setting information, which is composed of paper feed or paper discharge option information (paper feed option, paper discharge option). Here, the paper feed option is a paper feed option device setting, and the paper discharge option is a paper discharge option device setting.

In the first embodiment, the icons are the same if they are of the same model, but in the present embodiment, icon information that is close to the outline of the product is stored for each manufacturer. Shall be displayed. This allows
It is possible to visually recognize an icon of an equivalent model of another manufacturer.

At this time, if the device is compatible with color, a color mark CM (shown in detail in FIG. 11) indicating color correspondence is added.

The display of the icons is controlled based on the device driver information.

Further, since the device driver information uses information on the device mode supported by the device driver, even if a new peripheral device (including an optional device) is provided by the manufacturer, the peripheral device information is not changed. By simply installing the device driver for the device, it is possible to respond immediately to the device.

FIG. 11 is a view for explaining the second network connection configuration displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG. Note that the same components as those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, 301g to 301j are icons. When the mouse 301 is clicked after pointing the icon 301g with a cursor or the like, a favorite display (not shown) (the system display window is divided so that the entire system and the user of the own device frequently) (The icon of each device in the system configuration that has been registered as a favorite to be used is displayed.)

The icon 301h is designated when displaying an editing screen for registering an icon from the system display window 302 to the favorite window. Icon 3
01i is instructed when the contents of the system display window 302 are updated and displayed. Icon 301
j is instructed when the program for displaying the system display window is stopped.

Reference numerals 302g to 302u denote icons corresponding to PCs connected on the network. An icon 302f corresponds to the multifunction peripheral, for example, the digital copying machine 118 shown in FIG. 1, and shows a state in which three jobs are currently spooled by the display shown in the figure. As the icon 302f, a unique icon and a device name different from the input / output device connected to the network device are displayed.

Reference numerals 303a to 303m denote icons corresponding to input / output devices connected to the network device, each of which is a unique icon specified by the device name (an icon very close to the external shape of the main body to be connected), and its connection state. And the operating status are displayed. Note that the current icon 3
The device corresponding to 03m corresponds to a case where an “impossible mark” in a state that cannot be selected due to some failure is displayed over the icon 303m. Icons corresponding to devices that are connected but for which no driver is installed are grayed out.

FIGS. 12 to 14 are views showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing apparatus shown in FIG. 2, with the icon 302f shown in FIG. 11 being effectively displayed. The dragged scanner icon (for example, 302d, 303c, etc.) is displayed as the icon 302f.
Is dropped from the digital copier 118 corresponding to the icon 302f and is referred to the device driver information managed on the hard disk 10 or the PMEM 3, and the CRT 16 is connected to the digital copier 118 and optional equipment connected thereto. Will be displayed as an image that allows you to confirm. That is, the virtual operation panel displayed according to the type of the icon to be dragged and dropped changes. The same components as those in FIG. 7 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, B1 to B8 are buttons, buttons B1 to B6 are operation buttons unique to the digital copier 118, and are buttons substantially equivalent to the operation panel display of the digital copier 118, and the button B1 is a button. When setting a page layout (for example, including a layout for outputting various Nin1 including 2in1 or one image on a plurality of sheets), an instruction is given by a cursor operation.
In the default state, the paper size is “A4”.
The output image corresponding to the horizontal writing output is displayed.

Button B2 is a button pressed to specify double-sided printing, button B3 is a button pressed to perform bookbinding processing, and button B4 is a button pressed to specify OHP printing. The button B5 is a button that is pressed when a staple as a paper discharge option of the digital copying machine 118 is designated. Button B6
Is stamp information to be added to the output image information,
For example, the button is pressed at the time of stamp output in which an image such as “secret” is output while being superimposed on the output image.

The functions set by these buttons B1 to B6 are the functions of the digital copying machine 118.

The button B7 is operated by the digital copier 11
8 is not a function that can be set on the PC side. In the present embodiment, two types of interesting settings, called an image effect setting and a stamp setting, are prepared in advance as interesting settings. Further, the button B8 is pressed to reset the copy mode setting to the standard mode.

PV1 and PV2 are preview areas, in which an effect image selected in accordance with an interesting setting on the PC side, which will be described later, "mosaic" is selected in this embodiment, and "confidential" is selected as a stamp Corresponding to

The resolution displayed on the slider 410 is automatically set to の of the maximum resolution of the selected output device in consideration of the traffic of the image data exchanged on the network. It is assumed that the same resolution as the automatically set resolution or a resolution close thereto is automatically set as the resolution on the input device side.

Accordingly, on the display screen shown in FIG. 12, the resolution setting on the scanner side is such that when the maximum resolution of the color-compatible copying machine is "600" dpi, and the color-compatible copying machine is inputted from the color-compatible scanner, 1/2 of printer resolution
This corresponds to the case where the input resolution on the scanner side is set and displayed as a resolution of about 300 dpi.

Similarly, in consideration of the traffic of the image data exchanged on the network, for example, about の of the reading resolution set for the scanner corresponding to the dragged scanner icon is automatically set. Shall be. However, it is possible to increase or decrease the resolution according to the user's request.

The MFI is a system image and is shown in FIG.
When the dragged scanner icon is dropped on the icon 302f while the icon 302f shown in FIG. 1 is displayed valid, device driver information acquired from the corresponding digital copying machine 118 and managed on the hard disk 10 or PMEM3 Is displayed as an image MFI on the CRT 16 so that optional devices connected to the digital copying machine 118 can be confirmed. In addition, it is assumed that the automatically selected paper feeding unit is displayed so as to be distinguishable from other paper feeding units in the paper feeding unit of the image MFI.

The icons 403a and 404a function as input / output paper setting buttons, respectively, and a dialog for setting a paper size, a paper direction, and the like in conjunction with an instruction to press the icons 403a and 404a (for example, described later). 17) is displayed and the paper size, paper orientation,
Various detailed settings including a color / monochrome mode can be performed.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a first window displayed when an interesting setting is made on the virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing apparatus shown in FIG. Is displayed when "Effect" is selected in a menu (not shown) when the button B7 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 811 denotes an original image, which corresponds to an example of an original image input from the scanner. Reference numerals 811-1 to 811-8 denote effect image examples. The effect image 811-1 corresponds to an example of a color-reversed image, the effect image 811-2 corresponds to an example of an embossed image, and the effect image 811-81. 3 corresponds to the mosaiced image example, the effect image 811-4 corresponds to the posterized image example, and the effect image 81
1-5 corresponds to an example of an image subjected to soft focus processing, an effect image 811-6 corresponds to an example of an image subjected to sharpness processing, and an effect image 811
-7 corresponds to an example of an image subjected to oil painting processing, and an effect image 811-8 corresponds to an example of an image subjected to noise addition processing. The current effect image 811-3
Corresponds to the state where is selected, and the mosaic processing is displayed in the preview area PV1 of the virtual operation panel in FIG. Here, it is possible to confirm the selected effect or cancel the effect by instructing to press the buttons 811-9 and 811-10.

The effect processing is executed by performing predetermined image processing operation on scanner image data by an image software application on the PC side.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of the second window displayed when the interesting operation is set on the virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing apparatus shown in FIG. Is displayed when "stamp" is selected in a menu (not shown) when the button B7 shown in FIG.

In the drawing, buttons 821 and 822 are used to select or cancel the stamp (highlighted) selected in the stamp list 824.
1,822 is indicated. The button 823 is instructed when displaying a help screen related to the stamp processing.

Reference numerals 826X and 826Y denote sliders, which are configured so that the positions at which stamps are allocated in the output paper can be set independently in the X and Y directions, respectively, and are set in the stamp information 825 selected at the center of the current output image. Corresponding to

It is to be noted that the stamp information registered in the stamp list can be newly added or deleted. In other words, stamp information intended by the user created and printed by an application or the like, image data input from a scanner, or image edited by a combination thereof is stored and managed in the hard disk 10 or the like. These stamps are executed not by the function of the copying machine but by the function of the PC.

FIG. 17 is a view showing an example of a property screen displayed in response to an icon instruction displayed on the virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing apparatus shown in FIG. Icon 40 shown in FIG.
When 3a is instructed, it is displayed based on the device driver information acquired when the input device and the output device are dragged and dropped.

In the figure, reference numeral 830 denotes a property screen.
For example, various image input conditions can be freely set for the scanner.
4 is set, the mode 832 is currently set to, for example, black and white, and the resolution 834 is currently set to, for example, FAX 200 dpi. 833,835,836
Is a slider, a slider 833 is instructed when setting a threshold value of a gradation, a slider 835 is instructed when setting contrast, and a slider 833 is instructed when setting brightness. 837 and 838 are buttons,
When confirming the set contents, press the button 837.
To cancel the settings, a button 838 is designated.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing an example of a resource file of a device driver managed by the data processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention. When an icon is instructed to be pressed, the resource file is obtained from the management server corresponding to a resource file for each device that is centrally managed by a management server (not shown) connected to the network.

In the figure, reference numeral 800 denotes acquisition information;
Is a header section in which a driver name, version information, and comments are set.

Reference numeral 802 denotes page setting information, which is resource offset information and information on page setting (document size,
Output paper size, print orientation, page layout, magnification, stamp). Here, the document size and the output paper size are, for example, A4, A3, B4, etc., the printing direction is, for example, portrait, landscape, etc., and the page layout is, for example, 1 page / sheet, 2 in 1, etc.
The magnification is, for example, 100%, 141%, etc., and the stamp is, for example, “Confidential” or “Confidential”.
And so on.

Reference numeral 803 denotes finishing information, which includes resource offset information, a printing method, a binding direction, and a paper discharging method. Here, the printing method is, for example, normal printing, bookbinding printing, double-sided printing, OHP printing, or the like, the binding direction is, for example, vertical or horizontal, and the discharging method is, for example, sorting, grouping, rotation sorting, or the like. .

Reference numeral 804 denotes paper feed information, which is composed of resource offset information and various paper feed setting information (paper feed method, OHP print detailed setting). Here, the paper feeding method is, for example, cassette 1, manual feed, and the like, and the OHP printing detailed setting is a paper feeding port, a middle sheet specification, a paper type, and the like at the time of OHP printing setting.

Reference numeral 805 denotes device setting information, which includes resource offset information and paper feed or paper discharge option information (paper feed option, paper discharge option). Here, the paper feed option is a paper feed option device setting, and the paper discharge option is a paper discharge option device setting.

Reference numeral 806 denotes a resource data section which stores unique image information (image parts) for displaying the system configuration of each device.

Thus, even when the function is extended by connecting the optional unit of the multifunction peripheral on the network, the latest resource file can be obtained from the server to freely cope with the extended virtual panel. Alternatively, a button can be displayed.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a button edit screen displayed on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.

In the figure, reference numeral 850 denotes an editing window.
From the function buttons displayed in the function list area 851,
Select the button you want to display and move button 853
By operating 854, the function area 85 to be displayed is displayed.
2 can be moved from the function area 852 to be moved or displayed to the function list area 851, and the buttons to be displayed can be edited.

855 is a button layout display area.
Buttons to be displayed corresponding to the buttons B1 to B6 shown in FIG. 12 and the like are arranged in the order of user selection (the order can be changed with a mouse or the like). The edit screen is
It is assumed that when an unillustrated edit button displayed on the virtual operation panel is instructed to be pressed, the edit program is read from the hard disk 10 and started.

After the button to be displayed is edited in this manner, the button to be displayed is canceled or set by the buttons 856 and 857.

Hereinafter, the data processing procedure will be described.
Note that this data processing is executed by the CPU 2 shown in FIG. 2 based on a program stored in the hard disk 10 or the like.

First, when display / non-display is designated by the move buttons 853, 854 on the edit window 850, the selected button is moved or displayed from the function list area 851 to the function area 852 to be displayed. It is moved from the function area 852 to the function list area 851 and displayed.

Next, when an instruction to change the button layout is issued in the button layout display area 855 on the edit window 850, the button layout display area 8
The layout of the 55 buttons is changed and displayed according to the instruction.

Next, the button 8 on the edit window 850
When the setting instruction is issued by the user 57, the setting on the editing window 850 is acquired and stored as setting function button layout information in the hard disk 10 or the like shown in FIG. 2, and the editing window 850 is closed.

Also, button 8 on edit window 850
When the cancel instruction is issued by 56, the setting on the edit window 850 is canceled and the edit window 850 is closed.

By the above processing, the editing of the function buttons (B1 to B8 in FIGS. 12 to 14) on the virtual operation panel (setting of the arrangement order and display / non-display) is performed by the editing window 850 shown in FIG. Therefore, the operability of the function setting can be further improved.

[Third Embodiment] In the above-described embodiment, the process of executing a desired function process by dragging and dropping an icon of a scanner and a printer, or a scanner and a multifunction device, which are virtually displayed, has been described. The log is managed for each combination function or device, and the management server on the network sequentially manages the information on the remaining resources of each printer. The log information is acquired when a log request is issued from a PC on the network or the function is executed. Then, it may be configured to display whether or not the set function can be executed, or to effectively utilize the log information of each device. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing an example of log information managed in the data processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
Is registered as a management server, and corresponds to function log information managed by the management server.

In the figure, reference numeral 860 denotes function log information, which includes a header portion 861 and function log information portions 862-1 to 862-N.
It is composed of

Reference numeral 863 denotes a function which can use a network device. For example, the function corresponds to a copy function, and identification information thereof is set. Reference numeral 864 denotes the number of registered binds, and the number of binds N is a value counted for each execution of the function. 8
A scanner ID 65 is set with a device ID corresponding to the icon (scanner) dragged and dropped on the network. Reference numeral 866 denotes a printer ID in which a device ID corresponding to an icon (printer) dragged and dropped on the network is set.

Reference numeral 867 denotes the number of times of use, and the number of times of copy in the same combination is cumulatively counted. 868 is a comment.

The function log information is notified to the management server when the function operation is started by the drag and drop icon of the user operating the PC on the network, and is stored on the hard disk in the management server. It is assumed to be stacked.

It is assumed that the function log information managed by the management server is read out and transferred to the requesting PC in response to an acquisition request from a user on the network. Then, it is assumed that the data is displayed as it is or in a list form or a visual form on the requesting PC as it is or after data processing.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing an example of log information managed by the data processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention.
Is registered as a management server, and corresponds to device log information managed by the management server.

In the figure, reference numeral 870 denotes printer log management information, which is a header section 871 and a printer log information section 872-1.
~ 872-M. Note that M corresponds to the number of identifiable printers on the network.

A printer name 873 is automatically set to a printer name determined by a device driver. 874
Is the number of logs, and a value N1 in which the number of logs logged in by the printer is accumulated is set. 875 is a comment, 876-1 to 876-N is detailed log information, and includes input information (application name, etc.), total number of pages to be printed, standard paper size, vertical and horizontal sizes of irregular paper, color printing / black and white printing, Single-sided / double-sided, toner usage, etc. are set. As the toner usage, toner usage information notified from the printer is set each time a print job in the printer ends. Each log information is updated and managed as needed in the hard disk of the management server.

Thus, each time each printer on the network executes a job, the latest log information is updated.
When a printer function or a copy function is executed on a PC on a network, the job may be used as determination information for determining whether a set job can be executed with the current toner amount. Therefore, when the management server receives a command for requesting printer log management information from a PC on the network (for example, the user performs a key operation of dragging and dropping a scanner icon onto a printer icon in order to execute a copy function). Is issued to the management server), the I of the specified icon is
Printer managed based on D (printer name)
It is assumed that the log management information is notified to the requesting PC.

FIGS. 22 to 25 are views showing an example of log information managed by the data processing apparatus according to the third embodiment of the present invention, wherein one of the PCs in the network shown in FIG. Corresponding to the log information managed by the management server for each job.

FIG. 22 shows job information managed when a facsimile function job is executed. The job information corresponds to the log item information in the receiving folder.
The management server manages the reception result, reception time, reception page, error information, resolution, compression method, and the like as log information.

FIG. 23 shows job information managed when the facsimile function job is executed. The job information corresponds to the log item information in the transmitted folder, and includes the transmission destination, FAX number, date and time, transmission result, transmission time, number of trials, and document. Name,
Number of broadcast transmissions, transmission page, error information, destination affiliation, comment, resolution, compression method, server reception time, transmission source,
The transmission source PC is managed by the management server as log information.

FIG. 24 shows log information of the scanner on the network shown in FIG. 1, and includes a user name, a scan start time, a scan end time, a total number of pages to be scanned, a machine name, a TWAIN driver name, a paper size, Log information including items such as paper height, paper width, and color / black and white is notified to the management server when a job using the scanner is executed, and is managed on the hard disk of the management server. PC read from hard disk in response to log information request
Alternatively, it is displayed on a display device on the management server.

FIG. 25 shows log information of the printer on the network shown in FIG.
Print end time, total number of printed pages, machine name, printer driver name, application name, number of copies specified, standard paper size, irregular paper height, width,
Log information including items of color / black and white, one side / two sides, and toner usage is notified to the management server when a job using the printer is executed, managed on the hard disk of the management server, and logged from a PC user on the network. P is read from the hard disk in response to the information request and
C or displayed on the display device on the management server.

It is assumed that the toner use amount is set to use amount data detected or calculated on the printer side.

<Description of Data Processing Procedure> The data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the fourth to tenth embodiments. The processing shown in the following fourth to seventh embodiments is executed by the CPU 2 based on a program stored in the hard disk 10 shown in FIG. 2 or a storage medium (not shown).

[Fourth Embodiment] FIG. 26 is a diagram showing the relationship between a data processing device registered as a management server and a client device in the data processing device of the present invention.

In the figure, 1501, 1510, 151
Reference numeral 3 denotes a client device, and server device information 150
2, 1511 and 1514 (FIG. 30 described later) and client device information 1503, 1512 and 1515 (FIG. 31 described later) are stored in the hard disk 10 shown in FIG.

The server device information 1502, 1511,
Reference numeral 1514 denotes information on devices shared on the network (1. Shared Device, 2. info).
) and device information that is not shared on the network (3. Non-Shared Device)
e, 4. information, which is obtained according to the device driver installed in the own device, and is acquired by the client devices 1501, 1510, and 1513.
Is managed by a client program within

A management server 1504 stores management server device information 1505 (FIG. 27 described later) in the management server 15.
Reference numeral 04 denotes storage management in the hard disk 10 shown in FIG. 1506 and 1508 are non-client devices,
This is a data processing device in which the server program, the client program, and the programs shown in the flowcharts described below are not installed, and stores device information 1507 and 1509, respectively.

The client device information 1 described above
503, 1512, 1515 are server device information,
The device information of the client device valid on the network and the device information of the non-client device are combined and obtained from the management server and each non-client device.
1510 and 1513 are managed by client programs.

FIG. 27 is a view for explaining the management server device information 1505 shown in FIG.

[0189] As shown in the figure, the management server device information 1505 includes header information (Header inform).
) 1601, index table (Ind
table) 1602, Device information of a valid client device in the network (Client PC)
device information data) 1
603-1 to 1603-N.

Each element (element) in the index table 1602

[0] to [N-1]) are da
ta offset, data size, and flg, and each element (element

[0] to [N-1])
Correspond to the device information 1603-1 to 1603-N, respectively.

Also, the device information of the client device (Client PC deviceformat)
ion data) 1603-1 to 1603-N are P
C information (PC information) 1604 (FIG. 28 described later), printer information (Printer in)
information) 1605 (FIG. 28 described later), scanner information (Scanner information)
n) 1606 (FIG. 29 described later), facsimile board information (FAX board information) 1
607 (FIG. 29 described later).

Further, the device information 1603-1 to 1603-N of the client device is the information of the device shared on the network obtained from the server device information 1502, 1511, 1514 shown in FIG.
harded Device, 2. informatio
n).

FIG. 28 shows the PC information (PC information) shown in FIG.
information) 1604, Printer information 1605
FIG.

[0194] PC information (PC information)
n) 1604 is composed of information and contents, and is as shown in the figure.

Printer information (Printer info)
The operation 1605 includes information, contents, and an acquisition method, and is as shown in the figure.

FIG. 29 shows the scanner information (Scanner information) 160 shown in FIG.
6, Facsimile board information (FAX board in
FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining the information (formation) 1607 in detail.

Scanner information (Scanner info)
The operation 1606 is composed of information, contents, and an acquisition method, and is as shown in the figure.

Facsimile board information (FAX boa)
d information) 1607 includes information, contents, and an acquisition method, and is as shown in the figure.

FIG. 30 is a diagram for explaining the server device information 1502, 1511 and 1514 shown in FIG. 26, and the same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1701 denotes local device information (Local device information).
n data), which is information of a device locally connected to the own device, and has the same configuration as the device information 1603-1 to 1603-N of the client device shown in FIG.

As shown in the figure, the server device information 15
02 is the header information (Headerinformati
on) 1601, Index table (Index)
table) 1602, local device information (Loc)
al device information dat
a) It is constituted by 1701.

FIG. 31 is a diagram for explaining the client device information 1503, 1512, and 1515 shown in FIG. 26. The same reference numerals are given to the same components as those in FIG.

As shown in the figure, the client device information 1503 includes header information (Header information).
) 1601, index table (In
dex table) 1602, local device information 1701, device information of other valid client devices on the network (Client PC device)
information data) 1603-1-1
1603-N-1, non-client devices 1506, 15
08 of device information 1507 and 1509, as shown in the figure.

The non-client devices 1506, 15
Print in device information 1507 and 1509 of device 08
The er information has a printer information (Printer information format) shown in FIG.
on) The structure is the same as that of 1605, but only the shared name (Shared name) and the server name (Server name) are set.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention, and corresponds to a combination function processing procedure accompanying the system configuration display processing. In addition, S301 to S310 indicate each step.

First, in step S301, domain information to which the own device belongs is acquired, and the address of a management server (any PC in the network shown in FIG. 1 is registered as the management server) is obtained. The connection information of all the PCs and peripheral devices shown in FIG. 1 that are shared on the network and the usage status and status information of those devices are acquired. At this time, device information (management server device information 1505 shown in FIG. 26) installed on another PC (managed by the management server) is also acquired. Then, the information is stored in PMEM3 shown in FIG.
Memory management above. Next, in step S302, information on the devices installed (managed) in the own device (FIG. 30)
Server device information shown in Fig. 10, information shown in Fig. 10, etc.)
Check (get).

The management server constantly monitors the connection status of all the shared PCs and peripheral devices shown in FIG. 1 on the network and the usage status and status of those devices, and When there is a change in the state of the PC and peripheral devices, the latest system information (connection status, use status, status of each device on the network) is notified to each client.

In step S303, the system configuration status screen for simultaneously displaying the system configuration and the system status shown in FIG. 11 for the PC and peripheral devices based on the acquired information is displayed in the client device information shown in FIG. Display based on At this time, based on the acquired information and the resource data portion 806 shown in FIG. 18 stored in the hard disk 10, each peripheral device has a device name and a unique icon specified by the device name. The connection state and the operation state (including visual or numerical information such as the number of currently spooled jobs and unusable) are displayed by icons (icons indicating functions including monochrome / color information) which are extremely close to the outer shape. .

Next, in step S304, it is determined whether or not each of the functions is a valid instruction when the instruction is given. As an operation method, for example, there is a method of dragging and dropping the scanner icon 303c on the digital copying machine icon 302f by a mouse operation on the screen shown in FIG.
In this case, a copy function is executed.

If it is determined that the combination is not a valid combination, the process proceeds to step S305, and an error message is displayed as shown in FIG.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S304 that the combination is a valid combination, the flow advances to step S306 to display a window of the corresponding function. In the above example, the virtual operation panels shown in FIGS. 12 to 14 are displayed.

Next, it is determined in step S307 whether or not copying is to be executed. If there is an instruction to stop copying, the process ends, and a button 415 on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. If it is determined that the copy execution instruction has been issued, the process proceeds to step S308, and the copy is executed according to the settings. Note that the window of the function is closed at the time of execution of the processing, and the display returns to the system configuration status screen for simultaneously displaying the system configuration and the system status shown in FIG.

Next, in step S309, an image indicating that processing is being performed (copy processing is being performed in the above example) is displayed on a screen for simultaneously displaying the system configuration and system state shown in FIG. Display (step S310)) (see FIG. 33 described later), and the process ends.

FIG. 33 is a view showing an example of a copy function execution screen in the data processing apparatus according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention, and the same parts as those in FIG. 11 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 900 denotes a display during function execution.
The fact that the image read by the scanner indicated by the icon 303c is printed by the printer indicated by the icon 302f indicates that the icons 303c and 302f change the display of other icons, and the image of the network path is indicated by the thick broken arrow in the figure. When the user drags and drops the scanner icon 303c to the digital copier icon 302f by operating the mouse and instructs the copy function, the icon is displayed until the copy processing is completed.

By the above processing, the devices on the network are displayed together with the icons very close to the outer shape of the main body, the functions including monochrome / color information, and the number of currently spooled jobs. Equipment can be easily selected,
Even after the processing is executed, the fact that the processing is being performed is displayed as an image so that the data transfer state between the selected input / output devices can be grasped, so that the input / output devices used and the timing of the end of the processing are visually recognized. be able to.

Also, when shutting down a PC connected to the network, the PC notifies the management server of the shutdown, and the management server checks whether there is another user who has selected the device connected to the PC. And its P
If there is a user who has selected the device connected to C (simply selected or has already started processing by the device), the PC is instructed to select the device connected to this computer ( Use).
When shutting down, the selection (use) of the device is forcibly canceled (terminated). Do you want to shut down? Is sent.

As a result, when a device connected to another PC is selected (simply selected or the process has already been started by the device), the PC is shut down, and the selection of the device is released. (Or forced termination of the process in the device) can be prevented.

[Fifth Embodiment] FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. The display processing procedure of the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. For example, the icon 303c of the scanner is changed to the icon 30 of the digital copier.
When the copy function is executed by dragging and dropping to 2f, it is executed in step S306 in FIG. S401 to S408 indicate each step.

First, in step S401, driver information (for example, device driver information shown in FIG. 10) of a device whose storage management is performed by itself (for example, storage management in the hard disk 10 shown in FIG. 2) and data shown in FIG. The information of the selected input / output device is acquired from the resource file or the like.

More specifically, based on the device driver information shown in FIG. 10 and the resource file shown in FIG. 18, a unique icon corresponding to the selected input / output device (very Resources of close icons (icons indicating functions including monochrome / color information) (icons 403 indicating input / output devices in FIGS. 12 to 14)
a, 404a) and the resources of the system image MFI (including each optional device image) corresponding to the selected output device (corresponding to the system image MFI in FIGS. 12 to 14).

Next, in step S402, FIGS.
4 is displayed on the CRT 16, and in step S403, icons 403a and 404a indicating input / output devices corresponding to the selected input / output device are displayed on the displayed virtual operation panel. S404
Displays the system image MFI corresponding to the output device. The system image MFI is a configuration image including an extended function that can be set for the output device, that is, a configuration image of an output device including an optional device that is optionally mounted on the output device. Here, a configuration image including an extended function that can be set not only for the output device but also for the input device, that is, an optional device that is optionally mounted on the input device (for example, the automatic document feeder A that is optionally mounted on the scanner)
A configuration image of the input device including the DF) may be displayed.

Next, in step S405, the setting function button layout information set in advance by the editing window 850 shown in FIG. 19 and stored in the hard disk 10 or the like shown in FIG. 2 is obtained. In step S406,
Function buttons (B1 to B8 in FIGS. 12 to 14) are displayed on the virtual operation panel based on the set function button layout information.

Next, in step S407, optimal input / output settings (monochrome / color, density, image quality (resolution), paper size) are determined based on the performance of the input device and the performance of the output device.

For example, monochrome / color is determined to be color if both of the input / output devices are color, and determined to be monochrome if either of them is monochrome. The resolution is determined to be half the resolution of the output device.

Next, in step S408, the optimal input / output settings are displayed as default values on the virtual operation panel (a slider 409 for setting the density in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14, a slider 410 for setting the image quality, an input image). Is set and displayed), and the process ends. Although not displayed here, the icons 403a, 40
In step S408, the determined optimal input / output setting is set in the property screen shown in FIG.

By the above processing, the icon which is very close to the outer shape of the selected input / output device, and the monochrome /
Since the function including the color information and the like is displayed on the virtual operation panel, the type and function of the selected input / output device can be visually recognized.

Also, since the optimum input / output settings of the selected input / output device are set and displayed as default values, the input / output settings (monochrome / color, density, image quality (resolution),
Even a user unfamiliar with (paper size) can easily output a high-quality image that matches the performance of the input device and the output device.

Further, an icon 403 indicating an input / output device
a, 404a Input / output settings can be made in detail on a detailed setting screen displayed in response to the instruction, for example, the property screen shown in FIG.

Also, since the system image including the option device mounting status of the selected output device is displayed on the virtual operation panel, the option mounting status of the selected input / output device is visually recognized, and the selected output device is displayed. Even a user who does not know the optional device mounting state can easily set options.

Further, the function buttons (B1 to B1 in FIGS. 12 to 14) are opened by the editing window 850 shown in FIG.
Since the editing of 8) (setting of arrangement order and display / non-display) can be performed, the operability of function setting is further improved.

Since the resource file and the resource of the icon of each device shown in FIG. 18 are transmitted from the management server to each device each time they are updated, it is possible to always provide the latest optional function resources. . Even if a new device (including optional devices) is added by the manufacturer, the network can be installed on all client machines on the network by simply installing this resource file on the management server. All of the above client machines can display an icon (system image) corresponding to the new device (including the optional device).

[Sixth Embodiment] FIG. 35 is a flow chart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. For example, by dragging and dropping the scanner icon 303c onto the icon 302f, When the copy function is executed, the process proceeds to step S in FIG.
This corresponds to the processing executed in step 308. In addition, S501-
S505 shows each step.

First, in step S501, FIGS.
According to the settings of the virtual operation panel shown in FIG. 4, an image is input from the input device.

Next, in step S502, FIGS.
Whether the button B7 shown in FIG. 4 and image processing on the PC side set by FIG. 15 and FIG. 16 (in this embodiment, two types of processing, called effect processing and stamp processing, are called interesting settings) are set. If it is determined that the image processing on the PC side has been set, step S
Proceeding to 503, image processing on the PC is performed on the image input in step S501 based on the settings in FIGS. 15 and 16, and then proceeding to step S504.

On the other hand, in step S502, FIGS.
If it is determined that the image processing on the PC side set by the button B7 shown in FIG. 15 and FIGS. 15 and 16 has not been set, the process directly proceeds to step S504.

Next, in step S504, an output job in an output format (including a processing page layout, double-sided printing, stapling, etc. depending on the output device) based on the input / output settings set on the virtual operation panel is created. S505
To send to the output device and end the process. Step S
Steps 502 to S505 are performed every time data for one output page is input.

As described above, the user can perform the image processing using the application on the PC by using the application on the PC and then output the image using the function provided on the output device without performing the conventional complicated processing. After selecting the input / output device by & drop, the simple operation of setting the processing on the PC side and the processing on the output device side on the virtual operation panel makes the operation dependent on the output device in addition to the image processing provided on the output device An image on which no PC processing has been performed can be output from the selected output device.

[Seventh Embodiment] In the above embodiment, FIG.
2 to 14, the case where the print processing is executed by the output device based on the settings on the virtual operation panel has been described, but the resource information (remaining amount of paper and staples) of the output device is acquired at the time of printing. Then, it may be configured to determine whether or not the print processing is executed, and notify the user. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 36 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG. 2. For example, the button 41 on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.
5, when the copy execution instruction is issued and the number of sheets stored in the output device is insufficient for the number of sheets required for the print processing specified by the user, the print processing is executed. Displayed before.

In the figure, reference numeral 901 denotes a warning message,
For example, when a button 415 is instructed on the virtual operation panel shown in FIG. 12 to FIG. 14 to issue a copy execution instruction, the number of sheets stored in the output device for the number of sheets required in the print processing designated by the user. If the number of sheets is expected to be insufficient, it is displayed before the execution of the print processing.

Reference numeral 902 denotes a button. When this button is pressed, the print processing is stopped. A screen for selecting another output format that can be output (an output format selection window shown in FIG. 37 described later) is displayed.

Reference numeral 903 denotes a cancel button. Pressing this button cancels the print processing and returns to the setting screen, for example, the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.

Reference numeral 904 denotes a continue button. By pressing this button, the print processing is continued (forced execution).

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of the output format selection window displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG.

In the figure, reference numeral 1001 denotes an output format selection window which is displayed when the button 902 shown in FIG. 36 is pressed, and which can be output in the number of sheets stored in the output device, for example, 2in1 printing. , Double-sided printing, and the like are displayed in a selectable manner.

Reference numeral 1002 denotes an execute button. When this button is pressed, print processing is executed in another selected output format. 1003 is a processing stop button. When this button is pressed, the print processing is stopped, and a setting screen,
For example, the process returns to the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.

FIG. 38 is a flow chart showing an example of a fifth data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. It is executed when it is done. In addition, S601 to S609 indicate each step.

If it is determined that the print processing has been executed, first, in step S601, information on the number of sheets is obtained from the designated printer.

Next, in step S602, the number of printable sheets designated from the acquired sheet number information (for example, designated on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. 12 to 14) is stored in the printer. Is determined (whether or not the processing condition is satisfied), and if it is determined that the condition is satisfied, a print process is executed in step S603.

On the other hand, in step S602, the number of prints that can be specified (for example, specified on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. 12 to 14) is not stored in the printer (the processing conditions are satisfied). If not, a warning message 901 shown in FIG. 36 is displayed in step S604.

Next, in step S605, the user
6, the user pressed the button 902 (instructed the display of another output format that can be processed), or pressed the cancel button 903 (instructed the stop of the print processing), or pressed the continue button 904 (the print processing To continue).

If it is determined that the stop of the print processing has been instructed, the print processing ends.

If it is determined in step S605 that continuation of the printing process has been instructed, the flow advances to step S603 to execute the printing process.

If it is determined in step S605 that the display of another processable output format has been instructed, the process proceeds to step S605.
In step 606, another output format capable of executing the print processing instructed by the virtual operation panel or the like is obtained based on the printer information obtained in advance from the printer driver, the number of sheets obtained in step S601, and the like.
At 07, an output format selection window 1001 shown in FIG. 37 displaying another output format capable of executing the designated print processing is displayed.

Next, in step S608, the user
It is determined whether the execute button 1002 shown in FIG. 7 has been pressed (instruction to change the output format) or the processing stop button 1003 has been pressed (instruction to stop print processing).

If it is determined that the print processing has been instructed to stop, the print processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S608 that a change of the output format has been instructed, the process proceeds to step S609.
Then, the print process is executed in the designated output format, that is, the output format selected in the output format selection window 1001 shown in FIG. 37, and the process ends.

If it is anticipated that a shortage of paper will occur during the printing process, a warning message will be displayed, so that it is possible to prevent a shortage of paper during the printing process in advance. The user can supply paper to the output device before executing the processing.

In the present embodiment (especially, in steps S601 and S602 in FIG. 38), the number of paper sheets is acquired from the designated printer, and the number of sheets capable of executing the designated print processing is determined by the acquired number of paper sheets. The case where it is determined whether or not the sheet is stored has been described. In step S601 in FIG. 38, sheet number information and sheet information used in the spooled job are acquired from the designated printer, and in step S602, It may be configured to determine whether or not the number of sheets capable of executing the designated print process is stored in the printer based on the acquired sheet number information, in consideration of the sheet information used in the spooled job. In this case, a display "this paper is reserved for printing" may be added.

Thus, it is possible to accurately predict that a shortage of paper will occur during the printing process in consideration of the spooled job.

Also, other output formats (for example, duplex printing, 2
in1) can be selected on the notification screen without returning to the setting screen, and there is no need to perform the complicated operation of returning to the setting screen each time. Therefore, even if the user is unfamiliar with the operation, The output format can be easily changed to another output format, and the designated print processing can be executed without performing paper supply to the printer (alternative printing can be performed).

In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which the remaining amount of paper in the output device is acquired at the time of printing to determine whether or not the printing process is to be executed. However, the stapling process is set for the designated print process. If the user touches, the staple remaining amount of the output device is acquired to determine whether or not to execute the print processing, and the user is notified by a warning message such as a warning message 901 shown in FIG. You may.

Also in this case, the user can instruct to change the output format, and the output format selection window such as the output format selection window 1001 shown in FIG.
Another output format capable of executing the designated print processing, for example, one in which one staple for reducing staple positions is selected, and a sort processing without staple is selected, and the print processing can be performed by changing the output format. And

In this way, if it is expected that staples will be insufficient during the processing, a warning message is displayed, so that the staples can be prevented from being insufficient during the processing in advance. Before execution of the processing, staples can be supplied to the output device.

Also, other output formats that can execute the print processing with stapling (for example, single staple using less stapling, double-sided printing, 2in1, sorting processing without stapling (the stapling is easy when manual stapling is performed thereafter) ) Is notified to the user without further returning to the setting screen, and the user can select on the notification screen without having to go back to the setting screen. Therefore, even if the user is unfamiliar with the operation, In addition, the output format can be easily changed to another output format, and the print process can be executed without supplying a staple to the printer (alternative process can be performed).

Note that the staple information and the staple information used in the spooled job are acquired from the designated printer, and the number of staples that can execute the designated print process from the acquired staple information is acquired. It may be configured to determine whether or not the staples are stored in the printer in consideration of the staples used in the spooled job.

Accordingly, it is possible to accurately predict that the staples will be short during the printing process in consideration of the spooled job.

[Eighth Embodiment] In the seventh embodiment,
A case has been described in which the resource information (remaining amount of paper and staples) of the output device is acquired at the time of printing, and the presence or absence of the printing process is determined to notify the user.
When printing is performed, resource information (toner remaining amount) of the output device may be acquired to determine whether or not the printing process can be performed, and the user may be notified. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message displayed on the CRT 16 shown in FIG. 2. For example, the button 41 on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.
5 when a copy execution instruction is given and the remaining amount of toner stored in the output device is insufficient for the amount of toner required for print processing specified by the user.
Displayed before execution of print processing.

In the figure, reference numeral 1101 denotes a warning message, which is necessary for print processing specified by the user when, for example, a button 415 is indicated on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. If the remaining amount of toner stored in the output device is expected to be insufficient with respect to the amount of toner, this is displayed before execution of the printing process.

In the warning message 1101, toners of all colors expected to be insufficient are displayed. For example, if the black toner and the cyan toner are expected to be insufficient, it is possible that “there is a possibility that the black toner and the cyan toner are insufficient. Check (replenish) the amounts of the black toner and the cyan toner and execute the process again. Please do. "Is displayed.

Reference numeral 1102 denotes an OK button. When this button is pressed, the print processing is stopped, and the setting screen,
For example, the process returns to the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS.

Reference numeral 1103 denotes a continue button. By pressing this button, the printing process is continued (forcibly executed).

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of the sixth data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention. In addition, S701 to S711 indicate each step.

First, in step S701, domain information to which the own device belongs is acquired, and in step S702, the address of the management server (any PC in the network shown in FIG. 1 is registered as the management server) is entered. get.

Next, in step S703, processing for accessing the printer (for example, copy processing, print processing, etc.)
It is determined whether or not the process has been performed. If it is determined that the process of accessing the printer has not been performed, the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S703 that the process for accessing the printer has been performed, then in step S704, the designated printer log (the printer log information section 872 of the printer log management information shown in FIG. 21) is read.
-1 to 872-M) from the management server. In detail, notify the management server which printer was accessed (specified printer),
In the printer log information section 872-1 to 872-M of the printer log management information shown in FIG.
The printer log information section (log information) of the corresponding printer is returned to the client.

Next, in step S705, toner information (toner remaining amount) and the like are obtained from the designated printer.

Next, in step S706, step S7
From the log information acquired in step S04 and the toner information of the printer acquired in step S705, it is determined whether the specified process satisfies the necessary conditions. In detail, the log information obtained from the management server is analyzed, and the same processing as the currently specified processing (application type or scanner type (high speed / low speed, color, monochrome), total number of printed pages, paper Size, color / monochrome,
Calculate (estimate) the amount of toner used when the same processing is performed from one side / two sides, etc., and compare the estimated amount of toner used with the remaining amount of toner obtained from the printer to specify the amount. It is determined whether the performed processing satisfies a necessary condition (processing can be executed).

If it is determined in step S706 that the specified process satisfies the necessary conditions based on the log information and the printer toner information, the designated process is executed in step S710, and Acquires information, etc., and generates log information (printer name, input information, total number of printed pages, paper size, color / monochrome, single-sided / double-sided, toner usage (by color), etc.) based on the acquired toner information I do.

Next, in step S711, the generated log information (printer name, input information, total number of printed pages, paper size, color / monochrome, single / double side, toner usage (for each color), etc.) is stored in the management server. And ends the processing.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S706 that the designated processing does not satisfy the necessary conditions from the log information and the toner information of the printer, the process proceeds to step S70.
At 7, the warning message shown in FIG. 39 is displayed, and at step S708, it is determined whether or not it has been instructed to continue the process as it is (whether or not the continue button 1103 has been pressed).

If it is determined in step S708 that it has been instructed to continue the process, the process is continued in step S709, toner information or the like is acquired from the printer, and log information (printer name, printer name, etc.) is obtained based on the acquired toner information. Input information, the total number of pages to be printed, paper size, color / monochrome, single-sided / double-sided, toner usage (for each color), etc.) are generated, and the flow advances to step S711.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S708 that an instruction has been given not to continue the processing (OK button 1102 has been pressed), the processing is terminated.

If it is predicted that a shortage of toner will occur during the printing process, a warning message will be displayed. Therefore, it is possible to prevent a shortage of toner during the printing process in advance. The user can supply toner to the output device before executing the processing.

FIG. 37 shows other output formats (for example, printing in economy mode using a small amount of toner, printing in monochrome, 2-in-1 printing, etc.) capable of executing the printing process designated by the user. The user is notified by a selection window similar to the output format selection window 1001 and can be selected on the notification screen without returning to the setting screen. This eliminates the need for a complicated operation of returning to the setting screen each time. Even a simple user can easily change to another output format, and can execute a designated print process without supplying toner to the printer (alternative print is possible).

Further, if it is determined that the designated processing does not satisfy the necessary conditions, another printer capable of executing the print processing designated by the user is set in FIG.
The user is notified by a selection window similar to the output format selection window 1001 shown in FIG. 7, and can be selected on the notification screen without returning to the setting screen. This eliminates the need for a complicated operation of returning to the setting screen each time. Even if the user is unfamiliar with the operation, the user can easily change to another printer, and can execute the designated print processing without replenishing the printer with toner.

Also, when the expected end time of the job spooled to the printer is acquired from the printer at the time of accessing the printer, and the job is executable, but the spooled job waits for a considerable amount of time until execution. For example, a warning message may be notified.

In the present embodiment, a case has been described in which the remaining amount of toner in the output device is acquired at the time of printing to determine whether or not the printing process can be executed, and the user is notified. However, the present invention is limited to toner. However, ink, an ink ribbon, or the like may be used.

In this embodiment, when performing print processing, the printer log of the printer and the resource information (remaining toner amount) of the printer from the printer are acquired from the management server via the network. Although the case of determining whether or not to execute the print processing has been described, the stand-alone PC stores a printer log on its own hard disk or the like when the print processing for the printer connected to the PC is completed, and executes the printer processing. Is performed, the printer log stored in its own hard disk and the resource information (toner remaining amount) of the printer are acquired from the printer to determine whether or not to execute the print processing. Is also good.

Thus, even in a printer connected to a stand-alone PC, it is possible to prevent a shortage of toner in the middle of the printing process in advance, and the user can send a message to the output device before executing the process. Toner can be supplied.

[Ninth Embodiment] In the eighth embodiment,
When performing a print process, the printer log of the printer is acquired from the management server, and resource information (remaining amount of toner) of the printer is acquired from the printer to determine whether the print process can be executed. Has been described, the processing (print processing, facsimile sending / receiving, etc.) managed by the management server is instructed by the user.
Log information for reception processing, image reading processing, etc.) may be acquired and displayed. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of the seventh data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention. In addition, S801 to S811 indicate each step.

First, in step S801, domain information to which the own device belongs is acquired, and in step S802, the address of the management server (any PC in the network shown in FIG. 1 is registered as the management server) is entered. get.

Next, in step S803, it is determined whether or not a log information display instruction (for example, an instruction can be given for each of the print function, facsimile transmission / reception function, and image reading function) is made. If it is determined, the process proceeds to step S806.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S803 that a log information display instruction has been issued, log information (FIGS. 22 to 25) of the designated function is acquired from the management server in S804, and the user In a desired form (list display, graph display, etc.). This display mode is instructed when the log display is designated.

Next, in step S806, it is determined whether or not a bind information display instruction (for example, an instruction can be given for each copy function and facsimile transmission / reception function) has been made, and it has been determined that no bind information display instruction has been made. In this case, the process proceeds to step S809.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S806 that a bind information display instruction has been issued, the process proceeds to step S80.
At step 7, bind information (FIG. 20) of the designated function is acquired from the management server, and at step S808, it is displayed in a form desired by the user (list display, graph display, etc.). This display mode is instructed when the binding information display is designated.

[0300] Next, in step S809, it is determined whether or not a network traffic amount display instruction has been issued. If it is determined that the network traffic amount display instruction has not been issued, the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step S809 that a network traffic volume display instruction has been issued,
In step S810, network traffic amount information (not shown) is acquired from the management server, and step S811
In the desired form of the user (list display, graph display, etc.)
To display. Note that this display mode is instructed when designating the display of the network traffic amount.

By the above processing, it is possible to easily grasp the device combination, the use frequency, and the use time of each function, for example, the combination of the scanner and the printer in the case of the copy function.

It is assumed that each log information is notified to the management server every time the client executes each functional process.

It is assumed that the management server constantly monitors the network traffic volume.

[Tenth Embodiment] In the first to ninth embodiments, the icons input from the scanner are simply displayed by dragging and dropping the icons of the scanner and the printer or the scanner and the multifunction device which are virtually displayed. ,
Although the case where the function processing for printing is performed by the multifunction peripheral or the like has been described, the configuration is such that the image input from the scanner is combined with the data file stored in the own apparatus and another PC or the like on the network to be output. Alternatively, a configuration may be adopted in which image data input from two scanners is combined and output. Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing device shown in FIG. 2, and is dragged in a state where the icon 302f shown in FIG. 11 is effectively displayed. When the scanner icon is dropped on the icon 302f, the digital copier 11 is acquired from the digital copier 118 corresponding to the icon 302f and referred to the device driver information managed on the hard disk 10 or the PMEM 3 to the CRT 16 to the digital copier 11
8 and an optional device connected to it are displayed as an image. Note that the same components as those in FIG. 12 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

In the figure, reference numeral 1201 denotes a combined document file designation area, which is a file to be combined with an image input from the input device corresponding to the icon 403a (a document stored as a shared file in the own device or another communicable PC). File, image file, etc.). If not specified, “none” is displayed in the combined document file designation area 1201 and the image and the file input from the input device corresponding to the icon 403a are not combined with the file. Reference numeral 1201a denotes a button. When this button is pressed, a combined document file selection window shown in FIG. 43 described later is displayed.

Reference numeral 1202 denotes a combined image data designation area.
Another input device for inputting image data to be combined with the image input from the input device corresponding to the icon 403a is designated. If not specified, “None” is displayed in the combined image data specification area 1202 and the icon 4
The image input from the input device corresponding to 03a and the file are not combined. Reference numeral 1202a denotes a button, and when this button is pressed, a button shown in FIG.
Is displayed.

[0309] Reference numeral 1203 denotes an output order display area, which is an icon (combined document 1203a) indicating a file designated in the combined document file designation area 1201 and an icon (image 1203b) indicating an image input from an input device corresponding to the icon 403a. ) And an icon (combined image 1203c) indicating the image input from the input device designated in the combined image data designation area 1202, and are output in the displayed order (in order from the left). That is, here, the image input from the input device corresponding to the icon 403a is combined with the file specified in the combined document file specification area 1201, and further the image input from the input device specified in the combined image data specification area 1202. Are sequentially combined and output.

[0310] The combined document 1203a, image 1203b, and combined image 1203c in the output order display area 1203 are displayed.
Can be changed by dragging with the mouse 13 shown in FIG.

Also, the combined document 1203a and the combined image 12
03c is not displayed when the combined document file 1201 and combined image data 1202 are not specified.

[0312] For example, the icon 302f shown in FIG.
When the dragged scanner icon is dropped on the icon 302f in a state where is displayed effectively, a virtual operation panel as shown in FIG. 42 is displayed. At this time, only the icon of the image 1203b is displayed in the output order display area. When a file is designated in the combined document file designation area 1201, the icon of the combined document 1203a is displayed on the right of the icon of the image 1203b. Subsequently, when an input device is designated in the combined image data designation area 1202, the icon of the combined image 1203c is changed to the combined document 12
03a is displayed on the right of the icon.

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of a combined document selection window displayed in response to an icon instruction for a button 1201a displayed on the virtual operation panel displayed on the CRT 16 of the data processing apparatus shown in FIG. It is.

In the figure, a combined document selection window 1300 displays files (document 1, document 2, image 1) in a directory which is set in advance as a combined document directory. Here, the document 1 and the document 2 indicate a document file, the image 1 indicates an image file, and when the user selects one of the document 1, the document 2 and the image 1 with the mouse 13 or the like, the combined document selection window 1300 is displayed. Closed and the selected file is displayed in full path in the combined image data instruction area 1201 in FIG.

[0315] The user can change the combined document directory by selecting "change combined document directory" in a menu (not shown) displayed on file 1301 by an instruction of mouse 13 or the like. Further, by selecting “network reference” in a menu (not shown) displayed on the file 1301 by an instruction of the mouse 13 or the like, the system configuration status screen shown in FIG. 11 is displayed.
It is also possible to select a shared file on another PC.

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing an example of the combined image data selection window displayed in response to pressing of the button 1202a displayed on the virtual operation panel shown in FIG.

[0317] In the figure, reference numeral 1400 denotes a combined image data selection window which displays input device names shared in the network in a selection display area 1401. 1402
Is a selection button. After pointing one of the input devices displayed in the selection display area 1401 with the mouse 13 or the like, pressing this button closes the combined image data selection window 1400, and the selected input device name is displayed. Figure 4
2 is displayed in the combined image data designation area 1202.
Reference numeral 1403 denotes a cancel button.
After canceling the selection of No. 1, the combined image data selection window 1400 is closed.

[0318] Reference numeral 1404 denotes a reference menu. When this menu is designated by the mouse 13 or the like, a system configuration status screen shown in Fig. 11 is displayed, and it is possible to select an input device from this screen.

At this time, while the system configuration status screen shown in FIG. 11 is displayed, predetermined keys of the keyboard 12 shown in FIG. 2, for example, “Ctrl” and “Al
When the "t" key is pressed simultaneously, the input device already selected (the input device corresponding to the icon 403a in FIG. 42)
An icon of an input device having the same function as that of the input device may be displayed in a different form, for example, blinking.

On the system configuration status screen shown in FIG. 11, in order to prevent the already selected input device (the input device corresponding to the icon 403a in FIG. 42) from being selected redundantly. Alternatively, the icon of the already selected input device may be displayed in a non-selectable state, for example, gray.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing an example of the eighth data processing procedure in the data processing apparatus according to the present invention. For example, the copy function is executed by dragging and dropping the scanner icon 303c onto the icon 302f. In this case, this corresponds to the processing executed in step S308 in FIG. Note that S901 to S915 indicate each step.

First, in step S901, it is determined whether or not a combined document file has been designated in the combined document file designation area 1201 on the virtual operation panel, and it is determined that a combined document has not been designated. Proceeds to step S903, and if it is determined that the designation of the combined document has been performed, the icon of the combined document 1203a is displayed (left-justified display) in the output order display area 1203 in step S902.

Next, in step S903, it is determined whether or not a combined image has been designated in the combined image data designation area 1202 on the virtual operation panel, and it is determined that the designation of a combined image has not been made. Is the same as step S9
In step S904, if it is determined that the designation of the combined image has been performed, the icon of the combined image 1203c is displayed (left-justified display) in the output order display area 1203.

Next, in step S905, it is determined whether or not an instruction to change the output order has been issued in the output order display area 1203 on the virtual operation panel. If it is determined, the process directly proceeds to step S907. On the other hand, if it is determined that the output order has been instructed, the process proceeds to step S9.
06, the icons (image 1203b, combined document 1203a, combined image 1203b) in the output order display area 1203
The display order of c) is switched and displayed according to the output order switching instruction.

Next, in step S907, it is determined whether or not a copy start button 415 on the virtual operation panel has been instructed to start copying, and if it is determined that no execution command has been given, the process proceeds to step S907. Returning to step S901, if it is determined that an instruction to start copying has been issued, the settings on the virtual operation panel are acquired in step S908, and the output order display area 1203 is displayed in step S909 in accordance with the acquired settings. The input specified first (input corresponding to the icon displayed first from the left) is executed.

Next, in step S910, it is determined whether the second input is designated in the output order display area 1203 (whether there is an icon displayed second from the left) or not. If it is determined that no is specified,
In step S915, if it is determined that the second input is designated, in step S911, the second designated input (the second input from the left is displayed in the output order display area 1203). Input corresponding to the icon that is

Next, in step S912, it is determined whether the third input has been designated in the output order display area 1203 (whether there is an icon displayed third from the left) or not. If it is determined that no is specified,
In step S914, if it is determined that the third input is designated, in step S913, the third designated input (the third input from the left is displayed in the output order display area 1203). Input corresponding to the icon that is

Next, in step S914, the first to third inputs are sequentially combined, and the output format (processing page layout, double-sided printing, stapling depending on the output device) based on the input / output setting set on the virtual operation panel is performed. And the like, and sends the output job to the output device in step S915 to end the process. Note that the job creation in step S914 and the job transmission in step S915 are performed each time data for one output page is input, but may be output after holding data for a plurality of pages in the memory.

According to the above processing, a plurality of input sources and their output order are designated and output, so that information input from a plurality of input sources desired by the user is selected in combination in the order desired by the user. Output from the scanner, for example, an image obtained by combining a document file, an image file, or the like stored as a shared file in the own device or another communicable PC with an image read from the scanner. Format, for example, double-sided, 2i
Output can be performed from the output device selected in n1 or the like.

An image obtained by combining two scanners having different functions, for example, a color scanner and an image read by a monochrome high-speed scanner, can be output from an output device selected in a desired output format, for example, double-sided, 2-in-1 or the like. it can.

Further, an image obtained by combining images read by two scanners having the same function is output from an output device selected in a desired output format, for example, duplex, 2-in-1 or the like, so that, for example, two originals are read. In this case, even when a scanner having an automatic document feeder (ADF) or the like cannot be used, one scanner is used for a plurality of scanners (in this embodiment, two scanners, but three or more scanners may be used). By reading the originals one by one, two originals can be read without replacing the originals.

When information input from a plurality of input sources (three input sources in the present embodiment, but may be four or more) is combined and output in a specified order, regardless of the input source, , And can be output from a selected output device in a desired output format, for example, double-sided, 2-in-1 or the like by adding a page number or the like.

Further, in this embodiment, a case has been described in which information input from a plurality of input sources is combined and output in a specified order, but an application program for image processing or the like to be started by the own device is specified. Alternatively, information input from a plurality of input sources may be combined in a specified order and taken into an application program started by the own device.

[0334] Thus, the input is performed from a plurality of input sources only by designating the input source and the connection order without performing the conventional complicated input work of connecting each input information after individually inputting. It is possible to take in connection information in which information is freely connected in a designated order into an application program.

The printer shown in each of the above embodiments may be of an electrophotographic type, an inkjet type, a sublimation type, or another type. The scanner may be a flat head scanner or another type. Good.

Further, the peripheral devices on the network are not limited to printers, scanners and digital copiers, but may be other peripheral devices such as digital cameras and modems, and other peripheral devices such as digital cameras and modems. As with printers, scanners, digital copiers, etc., the peripheral devices can be displayed on the system configuration screen shown in FIG. 11 with icons that approximate the appearance of the product, and other peripheral devices such as digital cameras and modems can be displayed. Is designated as an input / output device in the same manner as a printer, a scanner, a digital copying machine, etc., and the above-described various composite functions can be executed.

The configuration of a data processing program readable by the data processing device according to the present invention will be described below with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 46 is a view for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs readable by the data processing apparatus according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator, etc. are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. Also, if the program or data to be installed is compressed,
A program for decompressing may also be stored.

FIG. 9, FIG. 32, and FIG.
4, the functions shown in FIG. 35, FIG. 38, FIG. 40, FIG. 41, and FIG.
It may be performed by a host computer. In that case, CD-ROM, flash memory, FD
The present invention can be applied to a case where an information group including a program is supplied to a data processing device from a storage medium such as the above or from an external storage medium via a network.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

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

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instructions of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

Further, the present invention may be applied to a system composed of a plurality of devices or an apparatus composed of one device. Needless to say, the present invention can be applied to a case where the present invention is achieved by supplying a program to a system or an apparatus. In this case, by reading a storage medium storing a program represented by software for achieving the present invention into the system or the apparatus, the system or the apparatus can enjoy the effects of the present invention. .

Further, by reading and reading a program represented by software for achieving the present invention from a database on a network by a communication program, the system or apparatus can be
It is possible to enjoy the effects of the present invention.

[0349]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the twenty-third to twenty-third inventions, when output processing by a printer is instructed, an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing set print processing is given to the printer based on the amount information of predetermined resources acquired from the printer. Judge whether there is,
If it is determined that the predetermined resource is not available in the printer in an amount capable of executing the set print processing, a warning message prompting replenishment of the predetermined resource is displayed. Since other output formats are displayed, it is possible to prevent the printer from running out of resources such as paper and staples in the middle of the printing process in advance, and efficiently perform alternative printing processes using other output formats. There is an effect that an excellent operation environment in which designation can be performed can be freely constructed.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a system configuration of a network device including a data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a client configuration according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a sectional view illustrating the configuration of the digital copying machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a control configuration of the copying machine shown in FIG.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a first network connection configuration displayed on a CRT shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a combination determination data structure stored in the data processing device illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of a copy function setting screen displayed on the CRT shown in FIG. 2;

8 is a diagram showing an example of an error message displayed on the CRT shown in FIG.

FIG. 9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of device driver information managed by the data processing device according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a second network connection configuration displayed on the CRT shown in FIG. 2;

12 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG.

13 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG.

14 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of a first window displayed at the time of setting an interest on a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG. 2;

16 is a diagram showing an example of a second window displayed at the time of setting an interest on a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG. 2;

17 is a diagram illustrating an example of a property screen displayed in response to an icon instruction displayed on a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating an example of a resource file of a device driver managed by the data processing apparatus according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing an example of a button edit screen displayed on the virtual operation panel shown in FIGS. 12 to 14;

FIG. 20 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating an example of log information managed in the data processing device according to the third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a relationship between a data processing device registered as a management server and a client device in the data processing device of the present invention.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating the management server device information shown in FIG.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing the PC information (PC info) shown in FIG. 27;
), printer information (Printer in)
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the details of the “formation”.

FIG. 29 shows the scanner information (Scanne) shown in FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram for explaining in detail r information) and facsimile board information (FAX board information).

30 is a diagram illustrating the server device information shown in FIG.

FIG. 31 is a diagram illustrating the client device information shown in FIG.

FIG. 32 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a diagram illustrating an example of a copy function execution screen in the data processing device according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing an example of a fourth data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

36 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message displayed on the CRT shown in FIG.

FIG. 37 is a diagram showing an example of an output format selection window displayed on the CRT shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 38 is a flowchart showing an example of a fifth data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 39 is a diagram showing an example of a warning message displayed on the CRT shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 40 is a flowchart showing an example of a sixth data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 41 is a flowchart showing an example of a seventh data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 42 is a diagram showing an example of a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG.

FIG. 43 is a diagram showing an example of a combined document selection window displayed according to an icon instruction for a button displayed on a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 44 is a diagram showing an example of a combined image data selection window displayed in response to an icon instruction for a button displayed on a virtual operation panel displayed on a CRT of the data processing device shown in FIG.

FIG. 45 is a flowchart showing an example of an eighth data processing procedure in the data processing device according to the present invention.

FIG. 46 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the data processing device according to the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 system bus 2 CPU 3 program memory 4 communication control unit 5 communication port 6 communication line 7 other device on network 8 external storage device control unit 9, 10 disk for data file 12 keyboard 13 mouse 14 video image memory 15 display output Control unit 16 CRT 17 Printer control unit 18 Printer 19 External device control unit 1A Image reading device control unit 1B Image reading device

Claims (23)

[Claims] 1. A data processing device capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, comprising: a designation unit for designating one of the printer devices; Setting means for setting print processing for any of the printer devices specified by the specifying means; obtaining means for obtaining predetermined resource amount information from the one of the printer devices specified by the specifying means; Determining means for determining whether or not the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the printing process set by the setting device, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained by the obtaining device; A data processing device comprising: 2. A data processing device capable of performing data communication with a printer device via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: setting means for setting print processing for the printer device; Acquiring means for acquiring the predetermined resource of the printer device acquired by the acquiring means, and determining whether or not the printer device has an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the print processing set by the setting device, A data processing device comprising: a determination unit configured to determine whether the data processing is performed. 3. When the determination unit determines that the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting unit, an execution instruction for the print process set by the setting unit is transmitted. A control unit for controlling a printing operation of the printer device based on the predetermined resource; and if the determination unit determines that the printer device does not have an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the print processing set by the setting unit, replenishment of the predetermined resource 3. A data processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a warning unit for displaying a warning message prompting the user. 4. After the warning message is displayed by the warning means,
Displaying another output format different from the output format set by the setting device, which can be executed with the predetermined resource amount in the printer device, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained by the obtaining device. Alternate output format display means for selecting, and a selection means for selecting another output format displayed by the alternative output format display means, wherein the control means selects one of the output formats by the other output format selected by the selection means. 4. A data processing apparatus according to claim 3, wherein said data processing apparatus controls a printing operation of said printer apparatus. 5. An obtaining means for obtaining predetermined resource amount information from the printer device and obtaining predetermined resource amount information reserved by a job spooled in the printer device. The means, based on the amount information of the predetermined resource of the printer apparatus acquired by the acquiring means and the amount information of the reserved predetermined resource, has an amount of the predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting means, The data processing device according to claim 1, wherein it is determined whether the data processing device is in a printer device. 6. The data processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the predetermined resource amount information includes a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples. 7. The data processing device according to claim 1, wherein a plurality of other data processing devices capable of communicating with the data processing device are connected on the predetermined communication medium. Data processing equipment. 8. The data processing apparatus according to claim 7, wherein any one of the plurality of data processing apparatuses can be registered as a management server. 9. The data according to claim 1, wherein the peripheral device includes a printer device, a facsimile device, a digital copying machine, a scanner device, a digital camera device, and a modem device. Processing equipment. 10. A data processing method in a data processing device capable of performing data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, wherein a designation for designating any one of the printer devices is provided. A setting process for setting print processing for any one of the printer devices designated by the designation process; and acquiring the amount information of the predetermined resource from the one of the printer devices designated by the designation process. An acquiring step, based on the amount information of the predetermined resource of the printer device acquired in the acquiring step, determining whether or not the printer device has an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step. A data processing method comprising: 11. A data processing method in a data processing device capable of performing data communication with a printer device via a predetermined communication medium, comprising: a setting step of setting print processing for the printer device; An acquisition step of acquiring resource amount information; and, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device acquired in the acquisition step, a predetermined resource of an amount capable of executing the printing process set in the setting step is provided in the printer device. And a determining step of determining whether or not the data exists in the data processing method. 12. When the determination step determines that the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set in the setting step, an execution instruction for the print processing set in the setting step is provided. A first print execution step of executing a print operation based on the printer apparatus, and if it is determined that the printer apparatus does not have an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting step by the determination step, 12. The data processing method according to claim 10, further comprising a warning step of displaying a warning message urging replenishment of a predetermined resource. 13. After the warning message is displayed in the warning process, the setting is performed by the setting process that can be executed with the predetermined resource amount in the printer device based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining process. An alternative output format displaying step of displaying another output format different from the output format that has been selected; a selecting step of selecting another output format displayed by the alternative output format displaying step; A second print execution step of executing a print operation relating to the printer device in accordance with the output format.
2. The data processing method according to 2. 14. The obtaining step includes obtaining predetermined resource amount information from the printer device and obtaining predetermined resource amount information reserved by a job spooled in the printer device. In the step, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step and the reserved predetermined resource amount information, an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the printing process set in the setting step is set as the predetermined resource. 14. The data processing method according to claim 10, wherein it is determined whether the data exists in a printer device. 15. The data processing method according to claim 10, wherein the predetermined resource amount information includes a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples. 16. The data according to claim 10, wherein the peripheral device includes a printer device, a facsimile device, a digital copying machine, a scanner device, a digital camera device, and a modem device. Processing method. 17. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of data communication with various peripheral devices including a plurality of printer devices connected on a predetermined communication medium, A designation step of designating one of the printer devices; a setting process of setting print processing for the one of the printer devices designated by the designation process; and the one of the printers designated by the designation process An obtaining step of obtaining the predetermined resource amount information from the apparatus; and, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer apparatus obtained in the obtaining step, an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the printing process set in the setting step is determined. A determining step of determining whether the printer is present in the printer device. Storage medium storing a program. 18. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of performing data communication with a printer device via a predetermined communication medium, wherein print processing is set for the printer device. A setting step of acquiring the predetermined resource amount information from the printer device, and a print process set by the setting step based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step. A determination step of determining whether an executable amount of the predetermined resource is present in the printer device or not, the storage medium storing a computer-readable program. 19. When the determination unit determines that the printer device has an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print process set in the setting process, the execution instruction for the print process set in the setting process is provided. A first print execution step of executing a print operation based on the printer apparatus, and if it is determined that the printer apparatus does not have an amount of predetermined resources capable of executing the print processing set by the setting step by the determination step, 19. The storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 17, further comprising a warning step of displaying a warning message urging replenishment of a predetermined resource. 20. After the warning message is displayed in the warning step, the setting is performed by the setting step that can be executed with the predetermined resource amount in the printer device based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step. An alternative output format displaying step of displaying another output format different from the output format that has been selected; a selecting step of selecting another output format displayed by the alternative output format displaying step; A second print execution step of executing a print operation relating to the printer device in accordance with the output format.
10. A storage medium storing the computer-readable program according to item 9. 21. An acquiring step for acquiring amount information of a predetermined resource from the printer device, and obtaining amount information of a predetermined resource reserved by a job spooled in the printer device. In the step, based on the predetermined resource amount information of the printer device obtained in the obtaining step and the reserved predetermined resource amount information, an amount of the predetermined resource capable of executing the printing process set in the setting step is set as the predetermined resource. 21. The storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 17, wherein it is determined whether the program exists in a printer device. 22. The computer-readable program according to claim 17, wherein the predetermined resource amount information includes a remaining number of recording media and a remaining number of staples. Storage medium storing. 23. The computer according to claim 17, wherein said peripheral device includes a printer device, a facsimile device, a digital copying machine, a scanner device, a digital camera device, and a modem device. A storage medium storing a program which can be read by the user.