JP2006197409A - Image output system, operation input device, operation screen display method, operation screen display program and recording medium with the program recorded therein - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To enable a user to freely combine a plurality of devices that can perform the same service and have different specifications in accordance with respective function characteristics and to easily construct and perform workflow corresponding to the user's target even in the devices. <P>SOLUTION: An operation control part 12 of a client PC 1 uses a communicating part 15 to request a discover 3 for a list of available services. When information on the list of services is received, a workflow preparation image is constructed and displayed on a display part 13. When the user sets a parameter about a selected service by a service property 133, the client PC 1 inquires of the discovery 3 about a device suitable for the condition of the set parameter, and when information on a list of suitable devices is received, the list of suitable devices is displayed in an performance device selection image of the service property 133. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2006,JPO&NCIPI

Description

  The present invention relates to an image output system that outputs image data by, for example, printing by a printer, FAX transmission, attachment to an e-mail, etc., an operation input device, an operation screen display method, an operation screen display program, and a record in which the program is recorded It relates to the medium.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is an image output system in which devices capable of executing at least one of services such as image reading, print output, FAX transmission, and image data transmission by e-mail are connected via a network.

  In recent years, as each device has become more sophisticated and multifunctional, in such an image output system, for example, in the same office, the same service is executed within a range that can be used easily through a network. There is also a situation where there are multiple devices that can be used.

Further, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. H10-228667 discloses a conventional technique intended to perform scheduling in consideration of an efficient work order in an image forming system. The technique disclosed in Patent Document 1 includes a scheduling unit that schedules each process for a plurality of processes for a print job in an image forming system.
JP 2004-310746 A

  In the conventional image output system described above, between multiple devices that can execute the same service, for example, color and monochrome for print output, difference in print quality range that can be set, presence or absence of double-sided printing function, difference in printing speed Although the service is the same, the specifications may differ, such as the difference in printing cost per sheet.

  Here, when there are a plurality of multifunctional devices capable of executing many services such as an MFP (multi-function printer) within a range where the utilization method of operating via a network can be easily performed, for example, in one office, In order to build a workflow that combines execution devices that match the user's target service and user's conditions, the user must specify the functional characteristics and spec features of each available device connected to the network. It was necessary to grasp, and it took time and effort to use it.

  The above-mentioned Patent Document 1 is suitable for improving the efficiency of processes in the printing industry and the POD (Print On Demand) market. For example, the same service can be executed in an office or the like. In the situation where a plurality of different devices are easily available, it has not been considered to make each device easy to use.

  The present invention has been made in view of such a situation, and even for a plurality of devices having different specifications that can execute the same service, the user can freely change each device according to each functional characteristic. Provided are an image output system, an operation input device, an operation screen display method, an operation screen display program, and a recording medium recording the program, which can be combined and can easily construct and execute a workflow according to the user's purpose The purpose is to do.

  In order to achieve this object, an image output system as a first aspect of the present invention is an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network. Network information management means for managing information on available devices connected to the network, and image output by combining a plurality of services executed by available devices based on the device information available by the network information management means It is characterized by comprising an operation control means for constructing an operation screen for creating a workflow for performing the above and a display means for displaying the operation screen constructed by the operation control means described above.

  The operation control unit described above is preferably included in the operation screen for displaying the list of available services on the display unit by acquiring a list of available services from the network information management unit.

  It is preferable that the list of available services includes connection constraint information of each service, and the operation control unit described above constructs an operation screen including the connection constraint information of each service.

  When the service control condition is set, the operation control unit described above preferably acquires device list information that meets the set condition from the network information management unit and includes it in the operation screen displayed on the display unit.

  The operation control means described above preferably constructs an operation screen for each service of the workflow so that the execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input.

  A workflow execution unit that performs execution control of the workflow set by the operation control unit described above is provided. When the operation control unit acquires an execution result from the workflow execution unit, it constructs an execution result screen in each service of the workflow, It is preferable to display on the display means.

  An operation input apparatus according to a second aspect of the present invention is an operation input apparatus in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network, Operation control means for constructing an operation screen for creating a workflow for performing image output by combining a plurality of services executed by available devices based on available device information in the system, and the above-described operation control means Display means for displaying an operation screen constructed by the above.

  The operation control means described above is preferably included in an operation screen for displaying the list of available services on the display means by acquiring a list of available services from the network information management means in the image output system.

  It is preferable that the list of available services includes connection constraint information of each service, and the operation control unit described above constructs an operation screen including the connection constraint information of each service.

  When the conditions in the service are set, the operation control means described above acquires device list information that meets the set conditions from the network information management means in the image output system and includes it in the operation screen to be displayed on the display means. Is preferred.

  The operation control means described above preferably constructs an operation screen for each service of the workflow so that the execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input.

  An operation screen display method as a third aspect of the present invention is an operation screen display method in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network, A network monitoring process that monitors available devices connected to the network, and a workflow that outputs images by combining multiple services executed by the available devices based on available device information from the network monitoring process An operation screen construction step for constructing an operation screen for creation and a display step for displaying the operation screen constructed in the operation screen construction step described above are provided.

  A usable information obtaining step for obtaining a list of available services from a network information management means for managing available device information obtained in the network monitoring step, and in the operation screen construction step, usable information It is preferable to include list information of services available in the acquisition process in the operation screen.

  It is preferable that the list of available services includes connection restriction information of each service, and in the operation screen construction step described above, an operation screen including the connection restriction information of each service is constructed.

  When receiving the condition setting input in the service based on the operation screen displayed in the above display process, the condition set by the network information management means for managing the available device information obtained in the network monitoring process is met. A compatibility information acquisition step for acquiring device list information. In the operation screen construction step described above, when the list information of compatible devices is acquired in the compatibility information acquisition step, the operation screen is re-displayed to include the list information of the compatible devices. It is preferable to construct.

  In the operation screen construction step described above, it is preferable to construct an operation screen so that the execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input for each service of the workflow.

  The operation screen display program as the fourth aspect of the present invention is an operation screen display program in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network, A computer is caused to execute the process according to the process described in any one of the above-described operation screen display methods as the third aspect of the present invention.

  A recording medium on which an operation screen display program according to the fifth aspect of the present invention is recorded is characterized in that the operation screen display program according to the fourth aspect of the present invention described above is recorded.

  As described above, according to the present invention, even for a plurality of devices having different specifications that can execute the same service, the user can freely combine the devices according to the respective functional characteristics, A workflow according to the user's purpose can be easily constructed and executed.

  Next, an image output system, an operation input device, an operation screen display method, an operation screen display program, and a recording medium storing the program according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings.

[First Embodiment]
As shown in FIG. 1, an image output system according to a first embodiment of the present invention includes a client PC (operation input device) 1, a server 2, a discovery 3, and a device having a function for executing a service. Are connected via a network.
In the example shown in FIG. 1, an MFP (multi-function printer) 4a includes devices [F1] to [F4], and an MFP 4b includes devices [F5] to [F7]. 4c is configured as a device [F8] connected to the network.

As shown in FIG. 2, the client PC 1 includes an input unit 11 that receives input from the user, an operation control unit 12 that controls operations of the entire client PC 1 such as operation inputs, a display unit 13, a storage unit 14, The communication unit 15 communicates with other devices via a network, and is used for operation input to the server 2 by the user.
The operation control unit 12 is realized by mounting a setting application for performing various settings on the server 2 in advance.

  As shown in FIG. 3, the server 2 includes a setting condition storage unit 21 that stores setting conditions set by the user, and a workflow execution unit 22 that performs execution control for executing a workflow based on the set setting conditions. A responsible device determination unit (execution device determination means) 23 for automatically determining a responsible device for executing a service in the workflow, an execution result collection unit 24, and a communication unit that communicates with other devices via a network 25.

As shown in FIG. 4, the discovery 3 includes a network monitoring unit 31 that monitors the current state of each device connected to the network, and a network state storage unit that stores the current state of each device acquired by the network monitoring unit 31 32, a network state control unit 33 that controls the operation of the entire discovery 3 such as management of the current state of the network, and a communication unit 34 that communicates with other devices via the network.
Thus, the network monitoring unit 31, the network state storage unit 32, and the network state control unit 33 described above function as a network information management unit that manages information on available devices connected to the network.

The MFP 4 includes devices corresponding to individual services such as a scanner, image processing, and a printer, for example, and the device alone can operate these devices based on user operation inputs to execute services. By receiving a command signal from the server 2 via the network, only one of the devices can be operated via the network.
In addition, if the device connected to such a network is configured to be able to operate under the control of the server 2 via the network, the device [F8] is a single network such as the scanner 4c shown in FIG. It may be connected to.

  The image output system as the present embodiment is configured as described above, so that a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network, and each device included in the device group includes: Each service as a workflow based on the setting conditions set by the user can be executed by the client PC 1.

  Next, an operation example of the image output system according to the present embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 5, an operation example when an execution device for executing a service set in a workflow is designated by a user will be described.

First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 requests a list of available services from the communication unit 15 to the discovery 3 ( Step S1).
Upon receipt of the service list request, the network status control unit 33 of the discovery 3 refers to the network status storage unit 32 and creates a list of services that can be executed from information on devices available in the present image output system. Then, the service list information is transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S2).

When the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 receives the service list information, for example, a workflow creation screen (operation screen) as shown in FIG. 6 is constructed and displayed on the display unit 13 (step S3).
In the workflow creation screen illustrated in FIG. 6, a service selection unit 131 that selects a service, a workflow display unit 132 that is a main screen that displays a set workflow, and the like, function details (parameters) and execution devices in each service A service property 133 for selecting is displayed on the display unit 13.

The service selection unit 131 displays a list of selectable services transmitted from the discovery 3. The graphic indicating each service is displayed based on the graphic indicating the connection restriction as illustrated in FIG.
The example shown in FIG. 7A represents a connection restriction when connection with an input source to the service and an output destination from the service is essential. In other words, a black circle is drawn at the top of the character part when the connection with the input source to that service is mandatory, and a black circle is drawn at the bottom of the character part when the connection with the output destination from that service is mandatory. It is.

  The example shown in FIG. 7B represents a connection restriction when the connection with the service is arbitrary. That is, when the connection to the input source to the service is arbitrary, a white circle is drawn at the top of the character part, and when the connection to the output destination from the service is arbitrary, a white circle is drawn at the bottom of the character part. It is.

  The example shown in FIG. 7C represents a connection restriction when connection with the service is impossible. That is, if the connection to the input source for that service is not possible, a dotted circle is drawn at the top of the character part, and if the connection to the output destination from that service is impossible, the dotted line is at the bottom of the character part The circle is drawn.

The example shown in FIG. 7D represents that the service can be used only as the starting end of the workflow, and a black circle is drawn below the character portion.
The example shown in FIG. 7E represents that the service can be used only as the end of the workflow, and a black circle is drawn at the top of the character portion.

  Such connection restrictions are included in the service list information acquired from discovery 3 in step S2 described above, and the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 based on the service list information as illustrated in FIG. 7 described above. Build a workflow creation screen that includes connection constraint display with graphics.

When each service is displayed on the service selection unit 131 based on the connection constraints as described above, when the user newly sets a workflow, for example, the workflow display unit 132 can be clicked and dragged to select the service to be selected. You can create a workflow to combine multiple services and execute the desired processing with a very simple operation, such as pasting it on and connecting the services with connection arrows or branches to meet the connection constraints. .
In the example shown in FIG. 6, image data read by the “Scan” (image reading) service is transmitted to the “Edit” (image processing) service and the “Repository” (storage unit) service, and processed by the “edit” service. A workflow is set for printing out the image data using the “Print” service.

When the workflow service is set in this way, the user selects the function details (parameters) and execution device of the service for each service in the set workflow by the service property 133.
In the example illustrated in FIG. 6, when the “Scan” service is selected in the workflow display unit 132, the parameter selection screen and the execution device selection screen for the “Scan” service are displayed in the service property 133.

When such a workflow creation screen is displayed on the display unit 13 and the user sets a parameter for the selected service in the service property 133, the client PC 1 inquires the discovery 3 about a device that meets the set parameter condition (step S4). ).
Upon receiving a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 of the discovery 3 refers to the network state storage unit 32, and from the information on devices that can be used in the image output system at that time, List information is created, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S5).

  Upon receiving the information on the compatible device list, the client PC 1 displays a list of compatible devices on the execution device selection screen of the service property 133. When the user designates any one from the displayed device list, the client PC 1 sets the designated device as an execution device in the selected service (step S6).

  For other services in the set workflow, the conditions for the service currently selected by the user are set as parameters in the same manner as in steps S4 to S6 described above, and the execution device is selected from the device list that matches the conditions. By designating, the execution device in each service in the workflow is set (from step 7 to S12).

  When the setting of the workflow including the execution device in each service is completed in this way and an execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the client PC 1 is set for the server 2 in the above-described steps S4 to S12. A workflow execution request is transmitted together with information on the workflow, conditions set as parameters for each service, and the execution device in each service (step S13).

The setting condition storage unit 21 of the server 2 stores the transmitted setting conditions, and the workflow execution unit 22 sequentially executes the first service (Processing I) for the execution devices in the service based on the set workflow. Input / output information performed by the device in accordance with the set workflow, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S14).
The example illustrated in FIG. 5 illustrates a case where the execution device in the first service is set as the device [F1].

The device that has received the service execution request executes the service based on the transmitted conditions, and outputs data to the output destination according to the set workflow (step S15).
In the example shown in FIG. 5, the execution device [F1] in the first service scans and reads a document image, and transmits the read image data to the execution device [F2] in the second service (Process II). It is illustrated about.

  When the device that has received the service execution request completes the execution of the requested service, the execution result is transmitted to the server 2 as a report (step S16). The execution result collection unit 24 of the server 2 stores the transmitted report in association with the device name.

When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 2 inputs / outputs information that is executed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, the conditions set as parameters, A service execution request is transmitted (step S17).
In this way, similarly to steps S15 and S16 described above, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is transmitted (steps S18 and S19). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S20 and S21), the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 2 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collectively transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S22).
The operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 that has received the transmission constructs an execution result screen as illustrated in FIG. 8 and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S23).

In the execution result screen illustrated in FIG. 8, a workflow execution result 134 indicating the execution result of the entire workflow and a service report unit 135 indicating the execution result of the selected service are displayed on the display unit 13.
The workflow execution result 134 indicates the entire workflow, and the execution results of each service of the workflow are classified into success, failure, and a case where it is not executed because the previous process service has failed, as shown in FIG. And display.

  The service report unit 135 displays a detailed result report for the service selected in the workflow execution result 134. In the example shown in FIG. 8, in addition to the above-described success, failure, and the case where the service of the previous process is not executed because of failure, the name of the execution device, the IP address, and the execution time in the selected “Scan” service As the conditions set as parameters in, the type of the reading device, the distinction between color and monochrome, and the distinction between one side or both sides of the document are displayed.

FIG. 10 shows an example of an execution result screen when a device that has failed to execute a service is selected.
In the example illustrated in FIG. 10, the service report unit 135 displays the cause of execution failure in the “Print” service selected in the workflow execution result 134, the name of the execution device, the IP address, and the parameters at the time of execution. As the conditions set as, the distinction between color and monochrome and the distinction between one side or both sides of the document are displayed.

  When the client PC 1 displays the execution result screen illustrated in FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, the user does not need to move to the position of the execution device, that is, does not need to move from the location of the client PC 1 that has input the execution operation. You can know the execution result of the service by the set workflow.

  Next, an operation when a user selects a mode in which an execution device that executes a set service in a workflow is automatically selected will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 can be executed from the discovery 3 by the same operation as the above-described operations of steps S1 to S3. For example, a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to FIG. 6 is constructed and displayed on the display unit 13 (steps S31 to S33).

  By displaying the workflow creation screen on the display unit 13 in this way, when the user newly sets a workflow, for example, the service to be selected is pasted on the workflow display unit 132 by clicking and dragging, and the services are connected. It is possible to set a workflow service for executing a target process by a very simple operation such as connecting by a connection arrow or a branch so as to meet the restrictions.

  Here, for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the above-described screen example of FIG. 6, when the user sets the parameter for the service in the service property 133 and sets the execution device selection to “automatic”, the client The PC 1 sets the set parameters as conditions for the service selected in the workflow (step S34).

  In this way, the parameters in each service of the workflow are set, the setting of the workflow with the execution device set to “automatic” is completed, and when the execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the client PC 1 A workflow execution request is transmitted together with information on the workflow set in step S34 described above and the conditions set as parameters for each service (step S35).

  The setting condition storage unit 21 of the server 2 stores the transmitted setting conditions, and the responsible device determination unit 23 sets the execution device in the first service (Processing I) to “automatic” based on the set workflow. If it is confirmed, discovery 3 is inquired about a device most suitable for the set parameter condition (step S36).

When the network status control unit 33 of the discovery 3 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network status control unit 33 refers to the network status storage unit 32 and matches the conditions from information on devices available in the image output system at that time. List information is created by selecting a device, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the server 2 (step S37).
When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 of the server 2 receives the information of the compatible device list, it selects a device most suitable for use from these devices according to a predetermined priority order. The most suitable device selection method for this use is, for example, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the lowest cost, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the least amount of network traffic, or a device that hits the search first. Various methods such as a selection method may be used.
In the example illustrated in FIG. 11, a case where the optimal execution device in the first service is selected as the device [F1] is illustrated.

  For each service in the set workflow, the device-in-charge determining unit 23 inquires Discovery 3 for the service whose execution device is set to “automatic” by the same operation as in steps S36 and S37 described above, and conforms to the service. The device list information is sequentially acquired, and the most suitable device for use is sequentially selected from the acquired compatible device list information (steps S38 to S41).

  When the execution device 22 of the server 2 selects the most suitable device for use for each service for which the execution device is set to “automatic”, the first service in the set workflow is selected. For the execution devices in the service in order, the input / output information that the device performs according to the set workflow, the conditions set as parameters, and the service execution, as in the operations in steps S14 to S16 in the above-described operation example The request is transmitted, the service based on the set workflow is executed, the data is output to the output destination by the set workflow, and the execution result report is received by the execution result collection unit 24 (steps S42 to S44). .

  When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 2 performs input / output performed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, similarly to step S17 in the operation example described above. Information, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S45).

  In this way, similarly to steps S18 and S19 in the above-described operation example, the set device is caused to execute the service based on the set workflow, and the execution result report is transmitted (steps S46 and S47). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S48 and S49), the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 2 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collectively transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S50).
The operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 that has received the transmission constructs an execution result screen as described above using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S51).

In the above-described operation example when the execution device is set to “automatic”, when discovery 3 receives an inquiry about a compatible device from server 2, a list of devices that meet the conditions set by the user is stored in server 2. Although it has been described that the server 2 selects the most suitable device for transmission and use, the operation of selecting the most suitable device for use can be realized in the same manner as performed by the discovery 3 instead of the server 2.
In this case, Discovery 3 selects a device that meets the conditions from information on devices available in the present image output system at that time, and further selects a device most suitable for use from those devices according to a predetermined order. Then, the most suitable device information is transmitted to the server 2.

As described above, according to the image output system as the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention, even in an environment where a plurality of devices having different specifications and being able to execute the same service are connected to the network, the user specified Since the execution device can be set based on the condition, a device that matches the user's intention can be efficiently selected as the execution device from among a plurality of devices connected to the network.
For this reason, it is possible to select the execution device according to the functional characteristics of each device, and it is possible to easily and freely set the execution devices in each service of the workflow, and the workflow according to the purpose of the user is easy. Can be built and executed.

In each of the operation examples described above, the execution device in each service of the workflow is described as being specified or automatically set. However, the execution device is specified or automatically set for each service, and the workflow Those set by designation by each service and those automatically set may be mixed.
In this case, for each service, the operation on the side corresponding to the setting content in the service is performed from the operation example in the case of designation or automatic described above.

Further, in each operation example described above, it has been described that the execution device in each service of the workflow is specified or automatically set. However, each service by the workflow can be executed by calling a workflow registered in advance.
That is, by registering a preset workflow in association with the workflow name, when the user uses the same workflow again, the registered workflow can be called by the “call” button of the workflow display unit 132. In this case, when the registration operation is input, the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 associates the input workflow name with each of the set workflows, the parameters set for each service, and the execution The device setting information is stored in the storage unit 14, and when a call operation is input, the setting conditions associated with the workflow name and stored in the storage unit 14 are read out and displayed on the workflow display unit 132.
By using the call function for the set workflow, it is possible to save time and effort for creating the same workflow again.

[Second Embodiment]
Next, an image output system as a second embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the second embodiment, in place of the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 in the first embodiment described above, the server has a discovery function. .
Components similar to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 12, the image output system according to the second embodiment of the present invention is configured by connecting a client PC 1, a server 5, and a device having a function of executing a service via a network. The
Each device includes a plurality of devices that are connected to the network, can execute the same service, and have different specifications, as in the first embodiment described above.

  As shown in FIG. 13, the server 5 includes a setting condition storage unit 21, a workflow execution unit 22, a responsible device determination unit 23, an execution result collection unit 24, a communication unit 25, a network monitoring unit 31, and a network. By providing the state storage unit 32 and the network state control unit 33, the functions of the server 2 and the discovery 3 in the first embodiment described above are realized.

  Next, an operation example of the image output system as the second embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 14, an operation example in the case where an execution device for executing a service set in a workflow is designated by a user will be described.

First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 requests the server 5 for a list of available services by the communication unit 15 ( Step S61).
When the network status control unit 33 of the server 5 receives the service list request, the network status control unit 33 refers to the network status storage unit 32 and creates list information of services that can be executed from information on devices available in the present image output system. Then, the service list information is transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S62).

Upon receiving the service list information, the client PC 1 constructs a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to the screen example of FIG. 6 and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S63).
When the workflow creation screen is displayed on the display unit 13, each service of the workflow is set, and the user sets a parameter for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the service property 133, the client PC 1 sets the set parameter. The server 5 is inquired about a device that meets the above conditions (step S64).

  When the network state control unit 33 of the server 5 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 refers to the network state storage unit 32, and finds a device that conforms to the information on devices that can be used in the image output system at that time. List information is created, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S65).

  Upon receiving the information on the compatible device list, the client PC 1 displays a list of compatible devices on the execution device selection screen of the service property 133. When the user designates any one from the displayed device list, the client PC 1 sets the designated device as an execution device in the selected service (step S66).

  For other services in the set workflow, the conditions for the service currently selected by the user are set as parameters in the same manner as in steps S64 to S66 described above, and the execution device is selected from the device list that matches the conditions. By specifying, the execution device in each service in the workflow is set (from step 67 to S72).

  In this way, when the setting of the workflow including the execution device in each service is completed and an execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the client PC 1 is set for the server 5 in steps S64 to S72 described above. A workflow execution request is transmitted together with information on the workflow, the conditions set as parameters for each service, and the execution device in each service (step S73).

The setting condition storage unit 21 of the server 5 stores the transmitted setting conditions, and the workflow execution unit 22 sequentially executes the first service (Processing I) for the execution devices in the service based on the set workflow. Input / output information performed by the device in accordance with the set workflow, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S74).
The example illustrated in FIG. 14 illustrates a case where the execution device in the first service is set as the device [F1].

The device that has received the service execution request executes the service based on the transmitted conditions, and outputs data to the output destination according to the set workflow (step S75).
In the example shown in FIG. 14, the execution device [F1] in the first service scans and reads a document image, and transmits the read image data to the execution device [F2] in the second service (Process II). It is illustrated about.

  When the device that has received the service execution request completes the execution of the requested service, the execution result is transmitted to the server 5 as a report (step S76). The execution result collection unit 24 of the server 5 stores the transmitted report in association with the device name.

When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 5 inputs / outputs information that is executed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, the conditions set as parameters, A service execution request is transmitted (step S77).
In this way, similarly to steps S75 and S76 described above, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is transmitted (steps S78 and S79). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S80 and S81), the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 5 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collectively transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S82).
The operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 that has received the transmission constructs an execution result screen as described above with reference to the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S83).

  When the client PC 1 displays the execution result screen as described above with reference to FIGS. 8 and 10, the user does not need to move to the position of the execution device, that is, does not need to move from the location of the client PC 1 that has input the execution operation. You can know the execution result of the service by the set workflow.

  Next, an operation when a user selects a mode in which an execution device that executes a set service in a workflow is automatically selected will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 can be executed from the server 5 by the same operation as the above-described operations of steps S61 to S63. For example, a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to FIG. 6 is constructed and displayed on the display unit 13 (steps S91 to S93).

  By displaying the workflow creation screen on the display unit 13 in this way, as in the first embodiment described above, when the user newly sets a workflow, for example, by clicking and dragging the service to be selected, the workflow is displayed. It is possible to set a workflow service for executing a target process by a very simple operation such as pasting on the unit 132 and connecting the services with connection arrows or branches so as to meet the connection restrictions.

  Here, for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the above-described screen example of FIG. 6, when the user sets the parameter for the service in the service property 133 and sets the execution device selection to “automatic”, the client The PC 1 sets the set parameters as conditions for the service selected in the workflow (step S94).

  In this way, the parameters in each service of the workflow are set, the setting of the workflow with the execution device “automatic” is completed, and when an execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the client PC 1, the client PC 1 A workflow execution request is transmitted together with information on the workflow set in step S64 described above and the conditions set as parameters for each service (step S95).

  The setting condition storage unit 21 of the server 5 stores the transmitted setting conditions, and the responsible device determination unit 23 sets the execution device in the first service (Process I) to “automatic” based on the set workflow. If it is confirmed, the network state control unit 33 is inquired about a device most suitable for the set parameter condition (step S96).

When the network state control unit 33 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 refers to the network state storage unit 32 and selects a device that meets the conditions from information on devices available in the image output system at that time. Then, list information is created, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the assigned device determination unit 23 (step S97).
When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 receives the information of the compatible device list, the device-in-charge determining unit 23 selects a device most suitable for use from the devices in accordance with a predetermined order. The most suitable device selection method for this use is, for example, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the lowest cost, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the least amount of network traffic, or a device that hits the search first. Various methods such as a selection method may be used.
The example illustrated in FIG. 15 illustrates the case where the optimal execution device in the first service is selected as the device [F1].

  For each service in the set workflow, the device-in-charge determining unit 23 inquires of the network state control unit 33 about the services whose execution device is set to “automatic” by the same operation as the above-described steps S96 and S97. Information on the list of compatible devices in the service is sequentially acquired, and devices most suitable for use are sequentially selected from the acquired information on the list of compatible devices (steps S98 to S101).

  When the execution device 22 of the server 5 selects the most suitable device for use for each service for which the execution device is set to “automatic” as described above, the first service in the set workflow is set. For the execution devices in the service in order, the input / output information that the device performs according to the set workflow, the conditions set as parameters, and the service execution, as in the operations in steps S74 to S76 in the above-described operation example The request is transmitted, the service based on the set workflow is executed, the data is output to the output destination by the set workflow, and the execution result report is received by the execution result collection unit 24 (steps S102 to S104). .

  When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 5 performs input / output performed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, similarly to step S77 in the operation example described above. Information, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S105).

  In this way, similarly to steps S78 and S79 in the above-described operation example, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is transmitted (steps S106 and S107). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S108 and S109), the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 5 executes the execution of each service stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collectively transmitted to the client PC 1 (step S110).
The operation control unit 12 of the client PC 1 that has received the transmission constructs an execution result screen as described above using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S111).

As described above, according to the image output system as the second embodiment of the present invention, the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 are provided in the first embodiment described above. Even if the server also has a configuration having a discovery function, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
For this reason, control of the image output system can be centrally managed with fewer devices.

In each of the operation examples described above, the execution device in each service of the workflow is described as being specified or automatically set. However, the execution device is specified or automatically set for each service, and the workflow Those set by designation by each service and those automatically set may be mixed.
In this case, for each service, the operation on the side corresponding to the setting content in the service is performed from the operation example in the case of designation or automatic described above.

[Third Embodiment]
Next, an image output system as a third embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the third embodiment, instead of providing the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 in the first embodiment described above, the server has a function of a client PC. is there.
Components similar to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 16, the image output system according to the third embodiment of the present invention is configured by connecting a server 6, a discovery 3, and a device having a function of executing a service via a network. The
Each device includes a plurality of devices that are connected to the network, can execute the same service, and have different specifications, as in the first embodiment described above.

  As shown in FIG. 17, the server 6 includes an input unit 11, an operation control unit 12, a display unit 13, a setting condition storage unit 21, a workflow execution unit 22, a responsible device determination unit 23, and an execution result collection. By providing the unit 24 and the communication unit 25, the functions of the client PC 1 and the server 2 in the first embodiment described above are realized.

  Next, an operation example of the image output system according to the third embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 18, an operation example in the case where an execution device that executes a service set in a workflow is designated by a user will be described.

First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the server 6, the operation control unit 12 requests the discovery 3 for a list of available services by the communication unit 15 (step S121). .
Upon receipt of the service list request, the network status control unit 33 of the discovery 3 refers to the network status storage unit 32 and creates a list of services that can be executed from information on devices available in the present image output system. Then, the service list information is transmitted to the server 6 (step S122).

Upon receiving the service list information, the server 6 constructs a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to the screen example of FIG. 6 and displays it on the display unit 13 (step S123).
When the workflow creation screen is displayed on the display unit 13, each service of the workflow is set, and the user sets a parameter for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the service property 133, the server 6 sets the set parameter. The discovery 3 is inquired about a device that meets the above conditions (step S124).

  Upon receiving a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 of the discovery 3 refers to the network state storage unit 32, and from the information on devices that can be used in the image output system at that time, List information is created and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the server 6 (step S125).

  When receiving the information on the compatible device list, the operation control unit 12 of the server 6 displays a list of compatible devices on the execution device selection screen of the service property 133. When the user designates any one from the displayed device list, the operation control unit 12 sets the designated device as an execution device in the selected service (step S126).

  For other services in the set workflow, the conditions for the service currently selected by the user are set as parameters in the same manner as in steps S124 to S126 described above, and the execution device is selected from the device list that matches the conditions. By specifying, the execution device in each service in the workflow is set (steps 127 to S132).

  In this way, when the setting of the workflow including the execution device in each service is completed and an execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the server 6, the operation control unit 12 sends the setting condition storage unit 21 to the above-described step S124. The workflow set in S132, the conditions set as parameters for each service, and information on the execution device in each service are stored, and a workflow execution request is made to the workflow execution unit 22 (step S133).

Based on the set workflow, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 6 sequentially inputs / outputs information and parameters to be executed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the service from the first service (Processing I). And the service execution request are transmitted (step S134).
The example illustrated in FIG. 18 illustrates a case where the execution device in the first service is set as the device [F1].

The device that has received the service execution request executes the service based on the transmitted conditions, and outputs data to the output destination according to the set workflow (step S135).
In the example shown in FIG. 18, the execution device [F1] in the first service scans and reads a document image, and transmits the read image data to the execution device [F2] in the second service (Process II). It is illustrated about.

  When the device that has received the service execution request completes the execution of the requested service, the execution result is transmitted to the server 6 as a report (step S136). The execution result collection unit 24 of the server 6 stores the transmitted report in association with the device name.

When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 6 inputs / outputs information that is executed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, conditions set as parameters, A service execution request is transmitted (step S137).
In this way, similarly to steps S135 and S136 described above, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is transmitted (steps S138 and S139). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

  When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S140 and S141), the operation control unit 12 of the server 6 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collected, an execution result screen as described above is constructed using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displayed on the display unit 13 (step S142).

  When the display unit 13 of the server 6 displays the execution result screen as described above with reference to FIGS. 8 and 10, the user does not move to the position of the execution device, that is, from the location of the server 6 where the execution operation is input. You can know the execution result of the service by the set workflow without having to move.

  Next, an operation when a user selects a mode in which an execution device that executes a set service in a workflow is automatically selected will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the server 6, the operation control unit 12 performs a list of services that can be executed from the discovery 3 by the same operations as those in steps S 121 to S 123 described above. For example, a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to FIG. 6 is constructed and displayed on the display unit 13 (steps S151 to S153).

  By displaying the workflow creation screen on the display unit 13 in this way, when the user newly sets a workflow, for example, the service to be selected is pasted on the workflow display unit 132 by clicking and dragging, and the services are connected. It is possible to set a workflow service for executing a target process by a very simple operation such as connecting by a connection arrow or a branch so as to meet the restrictions.

  Here, for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the screen example of FIG. 6 described above, when the user sets the parameter for the service in the service property 133 and sets the execution device selection to “automatic”, the operation The control unit 12 sets the set parameter as a condition for the service selected in the workflow (step S154).

  In this way, the parameters in each service of the workflow are set, the setting of the workflow with the execution device set to “automatic” is completed, and when the execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the server 6, the operation control unit 12 sets the setting condition storage unit. 21 stores information on the workflow set in step S154 described above, the conditions set as parameters for each service, and the execution device in each service, and requests the workflow execution unit 22 to execute the workflow. (Step S155).

  When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 of the server 6 confirms that the execution device in the first service (Processing I) is set to “automatic” based on the set workflow, the device parameter determination unit 23 most satisfies the set parameter condition. The discovery device 3 is inquired about a suitable device (step S156).

When the network status control unit 33 of the discovery 3 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network status control unit 33 refers to the network status storage unit 32 and matches the conditions from information on devices available in the image output system at that time. List information is created by selecting a device, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the server 6 (step S157).
When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 of the server 6 receives the information of the compatible device list, the device 6 that is most suitable for use is selected from the devices according to a predetermined order. The most suitable device selection method for this use is, for example, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the lowest cost, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the least amount of network traffic, or a device that hits the search first. Various methods such as a selection method may be used.
The example illustrated in FIG. 19 illustrates a case where the optimal execution device in the first service is selected as the device [F1].

  For each service in the set workflow, the device-in-charge determining unit 23 inquires Discovery 3 for the service whose execution device is set to “automatic” by the same operation as in steps S156 and S157 described above, and conforms to the service. The device list information is sequentially acquired, and the most suitable device for use is sequentially selected from the acquired compatible device list information (steps S158 to S161).

  When the execution device 22 of the server 6 selects the most suitable device for use for each service for which the execution device is set to “automatic”, the first service in the set workflow is selected as described above. For the execution devices in the service in order, the input / output information that the device performs according to the set workflow, the conditions set as parameters, and the service execution, as in the operations in steps S134 to S136 in the operation example described above The request is transmitted, the service based on the set workflow is executed, the data is output to the output destination by the set workflow, and the execution result report is received by the execution result collection unit 24 (steps S162 to S164). .

  When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 6 performs input / output performed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, similarly to step S137 in the operation example described above. Information, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S165).

  In this way, similarly to steps S138 and S139 in the above-described operation example, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is received (steps S166 and S167). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

  When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S168 and S169), the operation control unit 12 of the server 6 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collected, an execution result screen as described above is constructed using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and is displayed on the display unit 13 (step S170).

In the above-described operation example when the execution device is set to “automatic”, when discovery 3 receives an inquiry about a compatible device from server 6, a list of devices that meet the conditions set by the user is stored in server 6. Although it has been described that the server 6 selects the most suitable device for transmission and use, the operation of selecting the most suitable device for use can be similarly realized by the discovery 3 instead of the server 6.
In this case, Discovery 3 selects a device that meets the conditions from information on devices available in the present image output system at that time, and further selects a device most suitable for use from those devices according to a predetermined order. Then, the most suitable device information is transmitted to the server 6.

As described above, according to the image output system as the third embodiment of the present invention, the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 are provided in the first embodiment described above. Even if the server is configured to have the function of the client PC, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
Therefore, it is not necessary to provide a client PC for operation input to the server, and the image output system according to the present invention can be configured with fewer devices.

In each of the operation examples described above, the execution device in each service of the workflow is described as being specified or automatically set. However, the execution device is specified or automatically set for each service, and the workflow Those set by designation by each service and those automatically set may be mixed.
In this case, for each service, the operation on the side corresponding to the setting content in the service is performed from the operation example in the case of designation or automatic described above.

[Fourth Embodiment]
Next, an image output system according to a fourth embodiment of the present invention will be described. In the fourth embodiment, instead of providing the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 in the first embodiment described above, the server also has a client PC and a discovery function. Is.
Components similar to those in the first embodiment described above are denoted by the same reference numerals, and description thereof is omitted.

As shown in FIG. 20, the image output system according to the fourth embodiment of the present invention is configured by connecting a server 7 and a device having a function of executing a service via a network.
Each device includes a plurality of devices that are connected to the network, can execute the same service, and have different specifications, as in the first embodiment described above.

  As shown in FIG. 21, the server 7 includes an input unit 11, an operation control unit 12, a display unit 13, a setting condition storage unit 21, a workflow execution unit 22, a responsible device determination unit 23, and an execution result collection. By providing the unit 24, the communication unit 25, the network monitoring unit 31, the network state storage unit 32, and the network state control unit 33, the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 in the first embodiment described above. And realize the function.

  Next, an operation example of the image output system as the fourth embodiment will be described. First, with reference to FIG. 22, an operation example in the case where an execution device that executes a service set in a workflow is designated by a user will be described.

First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the server 7, the operation control unit 12 requests the network state control unit 33 for a list of available services.
Upon receiving a service list request, the network state control unit 33 refers to the network state storage unit 32 and creates list information of services that can be executed from information on devices available in the present image output system. The operation control unit 12 builds a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to the screen example of FIG. 6 based on the created service list information, and causes the display unit 13 to display the workflow creation screen (step S171).

  When the workflow creation screen is displayed on the display unit 13, each service of the workflow is set, and the user sets a parameter for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the service property 133, the operation control unit 12 is set. The network state control unit 33 is inquired about a device that meets the parameter conditions (step S172).

When the network state control unit 33 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 refers to the network state storage unit 32, and obtains list information of the compatible devices from information on devices available in the image output system at that time. Create (step S173). The operation control unit 12 displays the created compatible device list information on the execution device selection screen of the service property 133.
When the user designates one from the displayed device list, the operation control unit 12 sets the designated device as an execution device in the selected service (step S174).

  For other services in the set workflow, the conditions for the service being selected by the user are set as parameters in the same manner as in steps S172 to S174 described above, and the execution device is selected from the device list that matches the conditions. By specifying, the execution device in each service in the workflow is set (from step 175 to S180).

  When the setting of the workflow including the execution device in each service is completed in this way and an execution operation is input from the input unit 11 of the server 7, the operation control unit 12 sends the setting condition storage unit 21 to the above-described step S172. The workflow set in S180, the conditions set as parameters for each service, and information on the execution device in each service are stored, and a workflow execution request is made to the workflow execution unit 22 (step S181).

Based on the set workflow, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 7 sequentially inputs / outputs information and parameters to be executed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the service from the first service (Processing I). And the service execution request are transmitted (step S182).
The example illustrated in FIG. 22 illustrates a case where the execution device in the first service is set as the device [F1].

The device that has received the service execution request executes the service based on the transmitted conditions, and outputs data to the output destination according to the set workflow (step S183).
In the example shown in FIG. 22, the execution device [F1] in the first service scans and reads a document image, and transmits the read image data to the execution device [F2] in the second service (Process II). It is illustrated about.

  When the device that has received the service execution request completes the execution of the requested service, the execution result is transmitted to the server 7 as a report (step S184). The execution result collection unit 24 of the server 7 stores the transmitted report in association with the device name.

When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 7 inputs / outputs information performed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, conditions set as parameters, A service execution request is transmitted (step S185).
In this way, similarly to steps S183 and S184 described above, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is received (steps S186 and S187). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

  When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S188 and S189), the operation control unit 12 of the server 7 executes the execution of each service stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collected, an execution result screen as described above is constructed using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displayed on the display unit 13 (step S190).

  When the display unit 13 of the server 7 displays the execution result screen as described above with reference to FIGS. 8 and 10, the user does not move to the position of the execution device, that is, from the location of the server 7 where the execution operation is input. You can know the execution result of the service by the set workflow without having to move.

  Next, an operation when a user selects a mode in which an execution device that executes a set service in a workflow is automatically selected will be described with reference to a flowchart of FIG.

  First, when the user performs an operation for starting the workflow setting application using the input unit 11 of the server 7, the operation control unit 12 performs a service that can be executed from the network state control unit 33 by the same operation as the operation in step S <b> 171 described above. Information on the list is acquired, and a workflow creation screen as described above with reference to FIG. 6 is constructed and displayed on the display unit 13 (step S191).

  By displaying the workflow creation screen on the display unit 13 in this way, as in the first embodiment described above, when the user newly sets a workflow, for example, by clicking and dragging the service to be selected, the workflow is displayed. It is possible to set a workflow service for executing a target process by a very simple operation such as pasting on the unit 132 and connecting the services with connection arrows or branches so as to meet the connection restrictions.

  Here, for the service selected in the workflow display unit 132 in the screen example of FIG. 6 described above, when the user sets the parameter for the service in the service property 133 and sets the execution device selection to “automatic”, the operation The control unit 12 sets the set parameter as a condition for the service selected in the workflow (step S192).

  In this way, the parameters for each service of the workflow are set, the setting of the workflow with the execution device set to “automatic” is completed, and when the execution operation is input from the input unit 11, the operation control unit 12 inputs the setting condition storage unit 21. Thus, the workflow set in step S192 described above, the conditions set as parameters for each service, and information on the execution device in each service are stored, and a workflow execution request is made to the workflow execution unit 22 (step S193). ).

  When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 of the server 7 confirms that the execution device in the first service (Processing I) is set to “automatic” based on the set workflow, the assigned device condition is the most. The network status control unit 33 is inquired about a suitable device (step S194).

When the network state control unit 33 receives a search request for a device that meets the conditions, the network state control unit 33 refers to the network state storage unit 32 and selects a device that meets the conditions from information on devices available in the image output system at that time. Then, list information is created, and information on the list of compatible devices is transmitted to the assigned device determination unit 23 (step S195).
When the device-in-charge determining unit 23 receives the information of the compatible device list, the device-in-charge determining unit 23 selects a device most suitable for use from the devices in accordance with a predetermined order. The most suitable device selection method for this use is, for example, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the lowest cost, a selection method that gives priority to the device with the least amount of network traffic, or a device that hits the search first. Various methods such as a selection method may be used.
In the example shown in FIG. 23, the case where the optimal execution device in the first service is selected as the device [F1] is illustrated.

  For each service in the set workflow, the responsible device determination unit 23 inquires of the network state control unit 33 about the services whose execution device is set to “automatic” by the same operation as in steps S194 and S195 described above. Information on the list of compatible devices in the service is sequentially acquired, and devices that are most suitable for use are sequentially selected from the information on the acquired compatible device list (steps S196 to S199).

  When the execution device 22 of the server 7 selects the most suitable device for use for each service for which the execution device is set to “automatic”, the first service in the set workflow is selected. For the execution devices in the service in order, the input / output information that the device performs according to the set workflow, the conditions set as parameters, and the service execution, as in the operations in steps S182 to S184 in the above-described operation example The request is transmitted, the service based on the set workflow is executed, the data is output to the output destination by the set workflow, and the execution result report is received by the execution result collection unit 24 (steps S200 to S202). .

  When the execution result report is transmitted, the workflow execution unit 22 of the server 7 performs input / output performed by the device according to the set workflow with respect to the execution device in the next service, similarly to step S185 in the operation example described above. Information, conditions set as parameters, and a service execution request are transmitted (step S203).

  In this way, similarly to steps S186 and S187 in the above-described operation example, a service based on the set workflow is executed by the set device, and an execution result report is transmitted (steps S204 and S205). Similarly, each service based on the set workflow is executed and each execution result report is transmitted.

  When the execution of the last service in the set workflow and the reception of the execution result report are completed (steps S206 and S207), the operation control unit 12 of the server 7 executes the respective services stored in the execution result collection unit 24. The result reports are collected, an execution result screen as described above is constructed using the screen example of FIG. 8 or FIG. 10, and displayed on the display unit 13 (step S208).

As described above, according to the image output system as the fourth embodiment of the present invention, the client PC 1, the server 2, and the discovery 3 are provided in the first embodiment described above. Even if the server is configured to have the functions of the client PC and the discovery, the same effects as those of the first embodiment described above can be obtained.
For this reason, control of the image output system can be centrally managed with fewer devices.

In each of the operation examples described above, the execution device in each service of the workflow is described as being specified or automatically set. However, the execution device is specified or automatically set for each service, and the workflow Those set by designation by each service and those automatically set may be mixed.
In this case, for each service, the operation on the side corresponding to the setting content in the service is performed from the operation example in the case of designation or automatic described above.

[About each embodiment]
Moreover, each embodiment mentioned above is a suitable embodiment of this invention, This invention is not limited to this, It can change variously based on the technical idea of this invention, and can be implemented.
For example, in each of the above-described embodiments, the MFP or the scanner is described as being provided with a device that executes a service by connecting to the network. However, as long as a plurality of services can be used via the network, one apparatus is used. The types of services provided by may be arbitrary.

  Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, as the final output destination in the workflow, for example, the connection restriction described above with reference to FIG. 7 such as the print output by the “Print” service is set as the end terminal illustrated in FIG. As explained above, the final output destination in the created workflow is not limited to this connection constraint, and various services can be finalized unless the service has a connection constraint that requires output to a subsequent service. The image output system according to the present invention can be set as an output destination. For example, even if the final output destination of a workflow is a setting such as only storing in a storage unit by the “Repository” service in the screen example of FIG. The workflow creation by can be performed similarly.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the input unit 11 and the display unit 13 for the user to perform operations have been described as being provided in the client PC or server. However, the present invention is not limited thereto, and for example, the configuration provided in the MFP 4 can be similarly realized.

Further, in each of the above-described embodiments, the execution device in each service of the workflow has been described as being specified or automatically set. However, each service by the workflow can be executed by calling a workflow registered in advance.
That is, by registering a preset workflow in association with the workflow name, when the user uses the same workflow again, the registered workflow can be called by the “call” button of the workflow display unit 132. In this case, when the registration operation is input, the operation control unit 12 associates the input workflow name with each service of the set workflow, parameters set for each service, and execution device settings. The information is stored in the storage unit 14, and when a call operation is input, the setting conditions associated with the workflow name and stored in the storage unit 14 are read out and displayed on the workflow display unit 132.
By using the call function for the set workflow, it is possible to save time and effort for creating the same workflow again.

Further, by recording the processing procedure for realizing the image output system as each of the above-described embodiments on a recording medium as a program, the above-described functions according to each of the embodiments of the present invention are supplied from the recording medium. The program can be realized by causing a CPU of a computer constituting the system to perform processing.
In this case, the present invention can be applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from the above recording medium or from an external recording medium via a network.
That is, the program code itself read from the recording medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the recording medium storing the program code and the signal read from the recording medium constitute the present invention. It will be.
As this recording medium, for example, a floppy (registered trademark) disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, CD-R, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, EEPROM, or the like may be used.

  According to the program according to the present invention, the computer controlled by the program realizes each function according to any of the above-described server, client PC, and discovery according to the present invention, or a combination thereof. Can do.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration example of an image output system as a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of client PC1 in this image output system. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the server 2 in this image output system. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the discovery 3 in this image output system. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example when an execution device is designated in the image output system. It is a figure which shows the example of a workflow creation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the connection restrictions in this example of a workflow creation screen. It is a figure which shows the example of an execution result screen. It is a figure which shows the example of a result display figure in this execution result screen example. It is a figure which shows the example of an execution result screen about the device which failed in service execution. It is a sequence diagram which shows the operation example when an execution device is automatic selection in the image output system as 1st Embodiment. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the image output system as the 2nd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the server 5 in this image output system. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example when an execution device is designated in the image output system. It is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when the execution device is automatic selection in the image output system. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the image output system as the 3rd Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the server 6 in this image output system. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example when an execution device is designated in the image output system. It is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when the execution device is automatic selection in the image output system. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the image output system as the 4th Embodiment of this invention. It is a block diagram which shows the structural example of the server 7 in this image output system. FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an operation example when an execution device is designated in the image output system. It is a sequence diagram showing an operation example when the execution device is automatic selection in the image output system.

Explanation of symbols

1 Client PC (operation input device)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 11 Input part 12 Operation control part 13 Display part 14 Storage part 15 Communication part 2, 5, 6, 7 Server 21 Setting condition storage part 22 Workflow execution part 23 Responsible device determination part (an example of execution device determination means)
24 execution result collection unit 25 communication unit 3 discovery 31 network monitoring unit 32 network state storage unit 33 network state control unit 34 communication unit

Claims (18)

An image output system in which devices including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service are connected via a network,
Network information management means for managing information on available devices connected to the network;
Operation control means for constructing an operation screen for creating a workflow for performing image output by combining a plurality of services executed by available devices based on available device information by the network information management means;
An image output system comprising: display means for displaying an operation screen constructed by the operation control means.   The operation control means acquires a list of available services from the network information management means, and includes the list of available services in an operation screen for displaying on the display means. The image output system described. The list of available services includes connection constraint information for each service,
The image output system according to claim 2, wherein the operation control means constructs an operation screen including connection restriction information of each service.   The operation control means, when a condition in the service is set, acquires device list information that meets the set condition from the network information management means and includes it in an operation screen to be displayed on the display means The image output system according to any one of claims 1 to 3.   The image according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the operation control means constructs an operation screen so that an execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input for each service of the workflow. Output system. Workflow execution means for performing execution control of the workflow set by the operation control means,
6. The operation control unit according to claim 1, wherein when the execution result is acquired from the workflow execution unit, an execution result screen for each service of the workflow is constructed and displayed on the display unit. The image output system described in 1. An operation input device in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices capable of executing the same service is connected via a network,
Based on available device information in the image output system, operation control means for constructing an operation screen for creating a workflow for performing image output by combining a plurality of services executed by available devices;
An operation input device comprising: display means for displaying an operation screen constructed by the operation control means.   The operation control means acquires a list of available services from the network information management means in the image output system, and includes the list information of available services on the operation screen to be displayed on the display means. The operation input device according to claim 7. The list of available services includes connection constraint information for each service,
9. The operation input device according to claim 8, wherein the operation control means constructs an operation screen including connection restriction information of each service.   When the conditions in the service are set, the operation control means acquires device list information that meets the set conditions from the network information management means in the image output system and includes it in the operation screen to be displayed on the display means The operation input device according to claim 7, wherein the operation input device is an operation input device.   11. The operation according to claim 7, wherein the operation control means constructs an operation screen so that an execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input for each service of the workflow. Input device. An operation screen display method in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices capable of executing the same service is connected via a network,
A network monitoring process for monitoring available devices connected to the network;
Based on the available device information by the network monitoring step, an operation screen construction step of constructing an operation screen for creating a workflow for performing image output by combining a plurality of services executed by available devices;
An operation screen display method comprising: a display step of displaying the operation screen constructed in the operation screen construction step. An available information acquisition step of acquiring a list of available services from network information management means for managing available device information obtained in the network monitoring step;
13. The operation screen display method according to claim 12, wherein in the operation screen construction step, list information of services available in the available information acquisition step is included in the operation screen. The list of available services includes connection constraint information for each service,
14. The operation screen display method according to claim 13, wherein in the operation screen construction step, an operation screen is constructed including connection restriction information of each service. When receiving the condition setting input in the service based on the operation screen displayed in the display step, the condition set by the network information management means for managing the available device information obtained in the network monitoring step is met. It has a compliance information acquisition process to acquire device list information,
15. The operation screen constructing step includes reconstructing an operation screen so as to include the list information of compatible devices when the compatible device list information is acquired in the compatible information acquiring step. The operation screen display method according to claim 1.   16. The operation screen construction step of constructing an operation screen so that an execution device can be set to either automatic or designated input for each service of a workflow. Operation screen display method. An operation screen display program in an image output system in which a device group including a plurality of devices that can execute the same service is connected via a network,
An operation screen display program for causing a computer to execute the process according to any one of claims 12 to 16.   18. A recording medium on which an operation screen display program according to claim 17 is recorded.

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