JP2008278370A - Image forming apparatus, information processor, image processing method, storage medium and program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To allow the side of an information processor to instruct functional processing for which the information processor cooperates with an image forming apparatus, through simple operation. <P>SOLUTION: When it is detected that a communicable state is provided (S1), an inquiry to a device executable specific function is acquired from an information processor (S3). On the basis of the inquiry, the information processor is then notified about device executable specific function information (S4). With a specific function processing request instructed via a user interface displayed by the information processor on the basis of the specific function information, setting information to be set to a device is acquired from the information processor (S5). On the basis of the acquired setting information, a transmission destination of information executed by the device is set (S12). <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to image processing in an image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a wireless communication interface.

  In recent years, an image forming system and an information processing apparatus are generally used by constructing an image forming system via a predetermined interface. An image forming apparatus, such as a multifunction printer (MFP), has a plurality of functions. Here, the plurality of functions include not only copying and PDL printing, but also a function of transmitting image data read by a scanner by FAX, and a function of transmitting the data as a file to a PC via a network.

  When using this transmission function, the user designates a transmission destination on the MFP. Then, a destination is input in the form of a telephone number, mail address or SMB (Server Message Block) path in accordance with the communication protocol from the operation panel or the host computer, and transmission is performed by operating the scanner.

  If the destination is a fixed destination known in advance, it can be saved in an address book secured in a nonvolatile memory provided in the image forming apparatus and used.

  Further, in order to make it easy to specify a destination, an MFP equipped with an application that can take in a plug-in, such as scanning with a single button and sending to a predetermined destination, has been commercialized.

  By developing a plug-in according to the user's purpose and environment and importing it, the target image file can be sent to a predetermined folder on the target computer with the push of one or several buttons.

  As a method for placing a scanned image file in an arbitrary folder, the following Patent Document 1 is disclosed.

Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2005-228561 discloses a technique for capturing an image by operating a scanner by dragging and dropping an icon assuming a document on the scanner.
Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-316821

  In recent years, various data processing systems using short-range wireless communication have increased. An MFP is no exception, and it has been devised to communicate with a digital camera or a mobile phone to transmit and receive data.

  The following methods (A) to (C) are assumed when the user wants to capture data from the scanner of the MFP to the mobile computer at hand using such short-range wireless communication.

  (A) A destination is designated from the MFP after the mobile computer is connected.

  (B) Create a plug-in for each mobile computer.

  (C) Three types of methods are conceivable in which a mobile computer is connected and a scanner on the MFP is driven from the mobile computer to capture data (the method of Patent Document 1).

  Here, the greatest merit of using short-range wireless communication is that communication is started only by approaching without making many settings.

  Therefore, it is expected that there are many usages in which an image file is obtained by accidentally bringing a mobile computer at hand close to an MFP nearby.

  However, when an image of a plurality of documents is taken into an arbitrary folder in the mobile computer in such a use case, the above-described methods (A) to (C) have the following problems.

  In the method according to (A), after connecting the mobile computer to the MFP, it takes time to check and input the full path of the directory tree on the mobile computer from the UI on the MFP, or to follow the root path.

  The method according to (B) may be used for business purposes in which a mobile computer and a folder to be used are uniquely determined, but cannot support a mobile computer body and a directory tree that change from time to time.

  In the method according to (C), it is good to read one sheet, but when reading a plurality of pages or a plurality of documents, the following operations (1) to (3) are simply repeated, which is very complicated. is there.

  (1) Place the paper on the scanner of the multifunction printer.

  (2) Drag and drop the icon on the PC imitating the document on the canister to the target folder.

  (3) Confirm that reading is complete.

  In addition, the method (C) must be a fixed scanner that can be operated directly from a PC, and there is a problem that the scanner is occupied and cannot be used for any other purpose during connection.

  SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a mechanism that allows an information processing apparatus to instruct a function process in which an information processing apparatus is linked to an image forming apparatus with a simple operation. Is to provide.

  The image forming apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with an information processing apparatus via a wireless communication interface, a device for executing a specific function process linked to the information processing apparatus, and communicating with the information processing apparatus via the wireless communication interface A determination unit that determines whether or not the device is in a possible state; and a first unit that acquires an inquiry about the specific function executable by the device from the information processing apparatus when the determination unit determines that the communication unit is in a communicable state. 1 acquisition means; notification means for notifying the information processing apparatus of specific function information executable by the device based on the inquiry; and a user interface that the information processing apparatus displays based on the specific function information In response to the specific function processing request instructed in step 2, the setting information to be set in the device is acquired from the information processing apparatus. An acquiring unit, and having a setting means for setting the destination of the information which the device has executed based on the second setting information acquired by the acquisition means.

  The information processing apparatus of the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus via a wireless communication interface, an inquiry unit that inquires about a specific function that can be executed by a device of the image forming apparatus, and the image formation based on an inquiry by the inquiry unit A first acquisition unit configured to acquire specific function information executable by the device notified from the apparatus; and the device of the image forming apparatus based on the specific function information acquired by the first acquisition unit. Display means for displaying a user interface for performing processing linked to the information processing apparatus, and setting information to be set in a device of the image forming apparatus based on an operation instruction for the user interface displayed on the display means. And transmitting means for transmitting to.

  According to the present invention, the information processing apparatus can instruct from the information processing apparatus side a function process in which the information processing apparatus is linked to the image forming apparatus with a simple operation.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<Description of system configuration>
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image forming system showing a first embodiment of the present invention. In this example, the image forming apparatus is an example of an image forming system in which a multifunction printer (MFP) including a scanner unit, a printer unit, and a data communication processing unit and a mobile computer 200 can communicate wirelessly.

  In FIG. 1, an MFP 100 is configured to be able to communicate with a mobile computer 200 via a short-range wireless communication interface.

  Here, as an example of short-range wireless communication, there is Bluetooth used for connection between devices of about several meters in a portable information device or the like. Unlike IrDA, which uses infrared rays, Bluetooth has the feature that it can be used even if there is an obstacle as long as the distance between devices is within 10m. Note that the short-range wireless communication interface is not limited to Bluetooth as the wireless communication interface.

  Note that the user can communicate by short-range wireless communication by bringing the PC 200 close to the multifunction printer 100.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a controller built in the multifunction printer 100 shown in FIG. Note that a printer engine and a scanner engine included in the MFP 100 are omitted.

  In the controller 110 shown in FIG. 2, reference numeral 111 denotes an overall control unit that connects each device described later and controls the MFP as a whole. A printer control unit 112 controls the printer engine.

  A scanner control unit 113 controls the scanner. A network control unit 114 controls network communication. Reference numeral 115 denotes a short-range wireless communication port control unit that controls the short-range wireless communication port. Reference numeral 116 denotes an application platform (APPF). Hereinafter, the application is abbreviated as AP. Reference numeral 117 denotes a UI control unit that controls the UI.

  Reference numeral 118 denotes a scan & transmission AP that controls scan & transmission that operates on the APPF 116, and can control the UI in cooperation with the UI control unit 117 via the APPF 116. Reference numeral 119 denotes an operation panel.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of a user interface of the PC 200 illustrated in FIG. This example is a screen example showing a file system of a storage device included in the PC 200.

  In FIG. 3, reference numeral 210 denotes a window system desktop, which is provided by an operating system (OS) installed in the PC 200.

  A window 211 displays a directory tree structure of the file system for the storage device in the PC 200. The directory tree window 211 can be displayed at an arbitrary position on the desktop 210. In this example, the folder “Contents” is the highest folder, and a plurality of subfolders are branched. 212 is one of the subfolders.

  The directory tree structure may be displayed differently depending on the OS. Therefore, the form of the folder icon displayed on this screen may be different.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface of the PC 200 shown in FIG. In this example, an operation icon for the MFP 100 is displayed on the PC 200. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same thing as FIG. Further, this screen corresponds to the screen displayed in S25 shown in FIG. That is, when the PC 200 approaches the MFP 100 and becomes communicable, the function transmission message is acquired from the MFP 100 and displayed on the display device of the PC 200.

  In FIG. 4, reference numeral 221 denotes a scan & transmission function icon, which is an icon for instructing an operation of transmitting image data of a read original document to an external device using the scanner unit of the MFP 100. The state of the scan & transmission function icon 221 indicates that the scan & transmission function can be used from the PC 200.

  A print function icon 222 indicates a print function, and is an icon for instructing printing of print information from an application using the printer unit of the MFP 100.

  Reference numeral 223 denotes a FAX transmission function icon indicating a FAX transmission function, which is an icon for instructing an operation for FAX transmission of image data of a read document to an external device using the scanner unit of the MFP 100.

  In addition, the aspect of the icon displayed in the desktop 210 is an example, and another form may be sufficient as it.

  Each function icon shown in FIG. 4 indicates a state in which normal operation is possible, but when the MFP 100 is performing FAX transmission or printing, the display mode changes from a constant display to a working state. You may switch to the display which shows.

  Further, the FAX function may be controlled to be displayed in gray when it cannot be used due to a communication line error. However, if the user instructs the FAX transmission function icon 223 when the FAX transmission function icon 223 is displayed in gray, the error factor may be controlled to be displayed as a message.

  In addition, if the functions that can be used for each user are restricted by performing user authentication processing, the icon corresponding to the function is controlled to be displayed in gray even if the function is operable normally. Also good.

  Further, when the MFP 100 can perform user authentication processing and manages the number of prints of the user and the like, when the print function icon 222 is instructed, control is performed to display the remaining number of printable pages of the user. Also good.

  5 to 10 are diagrams showing examples of the user interface of the PC 200 shown in FIG. This example shows a series of display states for instructing a printing process by dragging and dropping an icon displayed on the PC 200 to a folder in the file system. The icon shadow 224 shown in FIG. 5 is detected in S27 shown in FIG.

  In FIG. 5, reference numeral 224 denotes an icon shadow, which corresponds to an icon shadow in a state where the user drags and drops the scan & transmission function icon 221 by operating the pointing device (mouse) of the PC 200.

  This example corresponds to a state where an icon shadow 224 is to be placed (dropped) on the directory tree window 211 by a mouse operation by the user. In this embodiment, a specific function processing request for the MFP 100 is determined by placing an icon shadow 224 on the directory tree window 211 in accordance with a mouse operation instruction from the user. That is, by selecting the function indicated by the icon shadow 224 and dropping it on the folder icon on the directory tree window 211, the function indicated by the icon shadow 224 is determined as the specific function. Then, the specific function processing request for connecting the MFP 100 and the PC 200 is determined by dropping the confirmed specific function on the folder icon on the window 211. In this example, image data read by the scanner function of the MFP 100 is transferred to a storage area (specified by a folder) of the PC 200 and stored.

  The device that executes the specific function differs depending on the device specification of the MFP 100. In this embodiment, the device includes a scanner device, a printer device, and a facsimile device.

  In FIG. 6, reference numeral 225 denotes a selected folder icon, which corresponds to a designated folder whose folder display has been changed as a result of dragging and dropping the scan & send function icon 221 to a folder on the directory tree window 211. In this example, the dropped icon is displayed at the folder position.

  This example corresponds to a state in which the folder 212 of the file system shown in FIG. 3 is replaced and displayed as the selected folder icon 225 corresponding to the scan & transmission function icon 221 corresponding to the function.

  In FIG. 7, reference numeral 226 denotes a file confirmation window, which displays a reduced version of the image file in the folder by opening the folder at the position displayed by the selected folder icon 225. In addition, when there are many image files, it is comprised so that each image file can be confirmed by operating a scroll bar. Although this example shows an image file, the file attribute is not limited to an image file, and may be text, a figure, or a combination thereof. Even if the file confirmation window 226 is open, the selected folder icon 225 remains displayed.

  In FIG. 8, reference numeral 232 denotes an already opened folder window corresponding to a state in which the user designates the newly designated designation icon 231 by dragging and dropping the scan & transmission function icon 221 with the mouse. Thus, the user can visually confirm the contents of the registered image file. For this reason, the user can drop an icon after confirming an already registered image as to whether or not a document image to be scanned is appropriate as a folder to be registered.

  In FIG. 9, the communication is terminated when the PC 200 is currently separated from the multifunction printer 100. Therefore, this corresponds to a state where each of the scan & transmission function icon 221, the print function icon 222, the FAX transmission function icon 223, and the designation icon 231 is grayed out. In this display state, the scan & transmission function, print function, and FAX transmission function cannot be used.

  In this state, the designation icon 231 in the folder window 223 is also grayed out.

  In FIG. 10, reference numeral 241 denotes a context menu which appears when the scan & transmission function icon 221 is right-clicked with the mouse. Reference numeral 242 denotes a submenu which appears when the item of the activated application in the context menu 241 is selected.

  Here, copy, paste, file integration, activation application, etc. can be selected as selectable items, and the activation application further displays OCR and automatic translation as sub items in a selectable manner. Yes.

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment. In this example, the MFP 100 detects the PC 200, transfers a function icon, and receives and processes a function processing request from the PC 200.

  In addition, S1-S16 shows each step. Each step is realized by the overall control unit 111 reading and executing the control program from the memory. The controller 110 of the MFP 100 is premised on having several functions and can be realized, but only the processing related to scan & transmission will be described. Note that S3 corresponds to the first acquisition process, and S5 corresponds to the second acquisition process.

  First, in S <b> 1, the PC 200 waits for the short-range wireless communication port control unit 115 to detect that the PC 200 has approached the short-range wireless communication port of the MFP 100 (that it is in a communicable state). And if the approach of PC200 is detected, by this, the controller 110 will start communication with PC200 by S2. The communication protocol conforms to the short-range wireless communication protocol to be adopted. Next, in S14, it is determined whether the PC 200 has left the short-range wireless port. If it is determined that the PC 200 is not away from the short-range wireless port, the process proceeds to S3.

  In S <b> 3, the controller 110 determines whether a request (inquiry for a specific function) regarding what specific function is obtained from the mobile computer (PC) 200.

  If the controller 110 determines that the function request has been acquired, the function that the MFP 100 can provide to the PC 200 is transmitted in S4, and the process returns to S14. For example, function information such as scan & transmission, print, and FAX transmission that can be executed by the MFP 100 is transmitted (notified). Thereby, each function icon shown in FIG. 4 is displayed in the desktop 210 on the display screen of the PC 200.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S3 that the controller 110 has not acquired the function request, in S5, the setting value of the scan transmission function, such as the scan resolution, the transmission destination, the paper orientation, etc. (collectively referring to this) Wait for notification of setting information). When the setting value of the scan transmission function is notified from the PC 200, it is stored in the storage area in the controller 110 in S6.

  In step S7, the current setting state is displayed on the operation panel 119 on the operation panel 119 via the UI control unit 117. By default, the operation is performed with the displayed setting, and the process returns to step S14.

  On the other hand, when the controller 110 determines in S5 that the setting value of the scan transmission function has not been notified from the PC 200, the process proceeds to S8. In step S8, it is determined whether a sheet (original) is placed on the feeder of MFP 100 and the start key on operation panel 119 is pressed. If the controller 110 determines that the start key has not been pressed, the process returns to S14.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S8 that the start key is pressed, the scan & transmission application 118 is activated.

  In step S9, the controller 110 determines whether a transmission destination different from the default value is input via the UI screen. If the controller 110 determines that the transmission destination is input, in S10, the read image is set as the input transmission destination, and the process returns to S14.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S9 that the transmission destination has not been input via the UI screen, in S11, the controller 110 determines whether there is a transmission destination in which the setting value is notified from the PC 200 and stored.

  If it is determined that there is a transmission destination stored in the controller 110, the transmission destination is set as the transmission destination stored in S12, and the process returns to S14.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S11 that there is no transmission destination stored in the controller 110, in S13, the controller 110 displays an error message to that effect on the operation panel, and the process returns to S14.

  In this way, the scan & transmission application makes an image file and transmits it to the set transmission destination. If the transmission destination is not set in S11, an error is displayed on the UI screen. In any case, when the transmission is completed, the scan & transmission application ends the process.

  On the other hand, if the short-range wireless communication port control unit 115 detects that the PC 200 has left the short-range wireless communication port of the multifunction printer 100 in S14, the process proceeds to S15.

  In step S15, the controller 110 ends the communication with the PC 200. Next, in S16, the controller 110 deletes the storage of the setting value notified from the PC 200, and returns to S1.

  When communication with the PC 200 ends in S15, the function icon of the MFP 100 displayed on the display device of the PC 200 is displayed in gray.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus according to the present embodiment. This example is a data processing example of the PC 200 shown in FIG. S21 to S39 indicate each step. Each step is realized by the CPU of the PC 200 loading an application stored in a hard disk or the like into the RAM and executing it.

  Since the internal configuration of the PC 200 is general, it will not be described in particular. Also, the description will focus on processing related to scanning & transmission.

  In S <b> 21, the CPU 200 waits for the PC 200 to detect via the short-range wireless communication port 115 that the CPU of the PC 200 has approached the MFP 100 (communicable state). If the MFP 100 is detected via the short-range wireless communication port on the PC 200, the process proceeds to S22, and communication with the MFP 100 is started.

  In S23, the PC 200 requests what functions the MFP 100 has, and the process proceeds to S35.

  In step S <b> 35, it is determined whether the short-range wireless communication port control unit 115 has detected that the PC 200 has left the short-range wireless communication port of the MFP 100. If it is determined that the short-range wireless communication port control unit 115 has not detected, it is determined in S24 whether a function transmission message of the MFP 100 has been returned.

  Here, for example, when the function of the MFP 100 is returned from the MFP 100 as a result of the request in S23, a process of displaying the desktop 210 on the desktop of the PC 200 with an icon indicating the function is performed in S25.

  For example, when it is notified that the function includes scan & transmission, printing, and FAX transmission, the following icon display processing is performed. That is, in the display device of the PC 200, as shown in FIG. 3, a transition is made from a desktop display state having nothing to the display state shown in FIG. As a result, as shown in FIG. 4, a scan & transmission function icon 221, a print function icon 222, and a FAX transmission function icon 223 are displayed.

  Subsequently, in S26, setting values, scan resolution, transmission destination, paper orientation, and the like necessary for using each function of MFP 100 from PC 200 are transmitted to MFP 100. Since there is no designation at the time of the first communication from the MFP 100 to the PC 100, a default value is notified and the process returns to S35. Here, if a set value remains, the set value is notified. Although not described here, notification can be made at any time during communication if the set value is changed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S24 that there is no function transmission message, the process proceeds to S27. In step S27, the PC 200 adapts to the drag and drop operation as shown in FIG. 5, FIG. 6, and FIG. Judging.

  If it is determined that the transmission destination is designated by the PC 200, the process proceeds to S28. In S28, the CPU of the PC 200 determines whether or not the designated destination is a non-shared folder.

  If it is determined that the specified destination is a non-shared folder and cannot be directly accessed from the outside, the process proceeds to S29, where the specified destination is stored on the PC 200, and a temporary area separately accessible from the outside is stored in the storage device. And proceed to S30. In S30, the temporary area as the transmission destination is transmitted to MFP 100, and the process returns to S35.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 200 of the PC 200 determines that the designated destination is a shared folder in S28, since direct access from the outside (including the MFP 100) is possible, the process proceeds to S31. In step S31, the path of the folder designated as the transmission destination is transmitted to the MFP 100, and the process returns to step S35.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S27 that the transmission destination folder is not designated, it is determined in S32 whether or not the MFP 100 detects that the image file has been transferred by scanning. If it is determined that the image file has not been transferred, the process returns to S35.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S32 that the image file has been transferred, the process proceeds to S33.

  In step S33, the CPU of the PC 200 determines whether data transfer is necessary because the detected image file is for the temporary area.

  If the CPU of the PC 200 determines that data transfer is necessary, the PC 200 transfers to the transfer destination storing the image file in S34, and proceeds to S35. As a result, the image file is transferred to a temporary area secured in the storage device.

  On the other hand, if the CPU of the PC 200 determines in S33 that the transfer is not necessary, the image file is directly transmitted to the designated transmission destination, and the process proceeds to S35.

  In any case, an appropriate name is assigned to the image file according to some kind of rule, such as a unique one including a time stamp.

  FIG. 7 shows a state in which a plurality of image files are sent to the folder designated in this way.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S35 that the PC 200 has detected that it has left the short-range wireless communication port of the MFP 100, communication with the MFP 100 is terminated in S36.

  In step S37, the CPU of the PC 200 determines whether the setting value is set to remain. Here, if it is determined that the setting value is set to remain, the process proceeds to S38, and the function icons on the desktop 210 are grayed out as shown in FIG. 9, and the process returns to S21 to wait for the next connection. .

  On the other hand, if no setting value is left in S37, the function icons are deleted from the desktop 210, and the process returns to S21.

  In the above-described embodiment, a case has been described in which a function icon is dragged and dropped onto a folder on the directory tree as shown in FIG. 5 and FIG.

  On the other hand, the designation destination may be displayed in the window 232 by dragging and dropping the function icon in the folder as shown in FIG.

  Whether the display mode is based on FIG. 6 or FIG. 8 may be configured to be selectable, or may be configured to be switched by setting from a user operation panel. That is, even if both methods are implemented, if only one of the methods can be selected for ease of implementation, user convenience is improved.

  When the scan & transmission function icon 221 on the desktop 210 is right-clicked with a mouse operation, a context menu 241 is displayed as shown in FIG. Then, an automatic activation of an application using the acquired transmission image as an input may be designated from the submenu 242 that appears by selecting the item “activation application” in the menu items shown in FIG.

  Here, if the user clicks and designates the item “OCR” in the submenu 242 with a mouse operation, the OCR application is also activated when the scan & transmission function is used.

  The result of OCR is output as a separate file. If an item for automatic translation is clicked and designated, the automatic translation application is activated with the result of OCR when the scan & transmission function is used as an input, and the result is output as a separate file.

  As described above, when the user wants to capture data into the PC 200 at hand using the scanner of the MFP 100, the PC 200 is brought close to the MFP 100. At that time, a destination is intuitively designated by dragging and dropping a function icon appearing on the desktop of the PC 200 to an arbitrary folder on a file folder managed by the desktop.

  Thereafter, an image file can be obtained in a favorite folder by a simple operation of placing sheets on the scanner feeder of the MFP 100 and pressing the start button one after another.

  Thus, it is not necessary to manually input a destination to which image data of a scanned original is transmitted by operating the operation panel on the MFP 100 side.

  Also, any MFP 100 can be used immediately as long as the system environment allows the PC 200 to perform near field communication with the MFP 100.

  Furthermore, even while the PC 200 and the MFP 100 are communicating, the scanner of the MFP 100 can be used for another transmission or copying.

  Therefore, even if the MFP is shared with another person, there is an advantage that the person's work is not hindered.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the process by the MFP 100 shown in FIG. 11 and the process by the PC 200 shown in FIG. 12 are combined to form a system, S1 corresponds to the first determination process, and S21 is the second determination process. Corresponding to the determination process, S24 corresponds to the third acquisition process.

[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the system in which the MFP 100 and the PC 200 communicate with each other in a one-to-one relationship has been described. However, the PC 200 may be able to communicate with a plurality of MFPs at the same time.

  In view of this, it may be configured such that the PC 200 can process a document from a plurality of MFPs and register it in a designated folder by changing the mode of an icon to be displayed for each of the plurality of MFPs.

[Third Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the case where the document file is registered in the designated folder of the PC 200 from the MFP 100 has been described, but control may be performed so that a specific image process is performed on the document image to be read and then registered.

  For example, by applying specific image processing such as layout processing, compression processing, and gray scale processing to the image data file, a file adapted to the user's request can be registered, and user convenience is improved.

[Fourth Embodiment]
When the MFP 100 includes an external storage device such as a hard disk, a BOX area may be secured for each user.

  Therefore, an icon for instructing processing for the BOX area may be provided, and control may be performed so that an image file in the BOX area can be read and moved to a folder on the PC 200.

[Fifth Embodiment]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the information processing apparatus according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory maps shown in FIGS.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the image forming apparatus according to the present invention.
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs readable by the information processing apparatus according to the present invention.

  Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed. Icons may also be stored.

  Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 13 and 14 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.

  As described above, the storage medium storing the software program code for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

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

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser on a client computer is used to connect to an Internet home page. Then, the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function can be downloaded from the homepage by downloading it to a recording medium such as a hard disk. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. Let It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  In addition, the functions of the above-described embodiments are not only realized by executing the program code read by the computer. For example, based on an instruction of the program code, an OS (operating system) running on the computer performs part or all of the actual processing. Needless to say, the process includes the case where the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized.

  Further, the program code read from the storage medium is written in a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer. After that, based on the instruction of the program code, the CPU of the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing. Needless to say.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  While various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in the present specification by those skilled in the art.

1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an internal configuration of a controller built in the multifunction printer shown in FIG. 1. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of the user interface of the mobile computer shown in FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present exemplary embodiment. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the 1st data processing procedure in the information processing apparatus which shows this embodiment. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the image forming apparatus which concerns on this invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read by the information processing apparatus which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

100 MFP
110 controller 200 mobile computer

Claims (15)

An image forming apparatus capable of communicating with an information processing apparatus via a wireless communication interface,
A device that executes specific function processing linked to the information processing apparatus;
Determining means for determining whether or not communication with the information processing apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
A first acquisition unit configured to acquire an inquiry about the specific function executable by the device from the information processing apparatus when the determination unit determines that the communication unit is in a communicable state;
Notification means for notifying the information processing apparatus of specific function information executable by the device based on the inquiry;
Second acquisition means for acquiring setting information to be set in the device from the information processing apparatus in response to a specific function processing request instructed by a user interface displayed by the information processing apparatus based on the specific function information;
Setting means for setting a transmission destination of information executed by the device based on setting information acquired by the second acquisition means;
An image forming apparatus comprising:   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the device includes a scanner device, a printer device, and a facsimile device.   The specific function process linked to the information processing apparatus is a process of storing image data read by the scanner of the image forming apparatus in a directory specified by an icon displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus. The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the image forming apparatus is provided. An information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus via a wireless communication interface,
Determining means for determining whether or not communication with the image forming apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
An inquiry unit that inquires about a specific function that can be executed by the device of the image forming apparatus when the determination unit determines that the communication is possible;
First acquisition means for acquiring specific function information executable by the device notified from the image forming apparatus based on an inquiry by the inquiry means;
Display means for displaying a user interface for performing processing linked to the device of the image forming apparatus based on the specific function information acquired by the first acquisition means;
A transmission unit configured to transmit setting information to be set to a device of the image forming apparatus to the image forming apparatus based on an operation instruction for a user interface displayed on the display unit;
An information processing apparatus comprising: Second acquisition means for acquiring information processed by a device of the image forming apparatus;
Transfer means for transferring the information acquired by the second acquisition means to a transfer destination specified by an operation instruction for the user interface displayed on the display means;
The information processing apparatus according to claim 4, further comprising:   The operation instruction for the user interface displayed on the display unit is an instruction to store information processed by the device of the image forming apparatus in a directory specified by an icon displayed on the display unit. The information processing apparatus according to claim 4. An image forming system in which an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus can communicate via a wireless communication interface,
The image forming apparatus includes:
A device that executes specific function processing linked to the information processing apparatus;
First determination means for determining whether or not communication with the information processing apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
First acquisition means for acquiring an inquiry about the specific function that can be executed by the device from the information processing apparatus when the first determination means determines that communication is possible;
Notification means for notifying the information processing apparatus of specific function information executable by the device based on the inquiry;
Second acquisition means for acquiring setting information to be set in the device from the information processing apparatus in response to a specific function processing request instructed by a user interface displayed by the information processing apparatus based on the specific function information;
Setting means for setting a transmission destination of information executed by the device based on setting information acquired by the second acquisition means;
The information processing apparatus includes:
Second determination means for determining whether or not communication with the image forming apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
Inquiry means for inquiring about a specific function that can be executed by the device of the image forming apparatus when the second determination means determines that communication is possible;
Third acquisition means for acquiring specific function information executable by the device notified from the image forming apparatus based on an inquiry by the inquiry means;
Display means for displaying a user interface for performing processing linked to the device of the image forming apparatus based on the specific function information acquired by the third acquisition means;
An image forming system comprising: transmission means for transmitting setting information to be set to a device of the image forming apparatus to the image forming apparatus based on an operation instruction for a user interface displayed on the display means. An image processing method in an image forming apparatus including an information processing apparatus via a wireless communication interface and a device that executes specific function processing linked to the information processing apparatus,
A determination step of determining whether or not communication with the information processing apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
A first acquisition step of acquiring an inquiry about the specific function executable by the device from the information processing apparatus when it is determined that the determination step is in a communicable state;
A notification step of notifying the information processing apparatus of specific function information executable by the device based on the inquiry;
A second acquisition step of acquiring setting information to be set in the device from the information processing apparatus in response to a specific function processing request instructed by a user interface displayed by the information processing apparatus based on the specific function information;
A setting step of setting a transmission destination of information executed by the device based on the setting information acquired by the second acquisition step;
An image processing method comprising:   The image processing method according to claim 8, wherein the device includes a scanner device, a printer device, and a facsimile device.   The specific function process linked to the information processing apparatus is a process of storing image data read by the scanner of the image forming apparatus in a directory specified by an icon displayed on the display unit of the information processing apparatus. 9. The image processing method according to claim 8, further comprising: An image processing method in an information processing apparatus capable of communicating with an image forming apparatus via a wireless communication interface,
A determination step of determining whether or not communication with the image forming apparatus is possible via the wireless communication interface;
When it is determined that the determination step is in a communicable state, an inquiry step that inquires about a specific function that can be executed by the device of the image forming apparatus;
A first acquisition step of acquiring specific function information executable by the device notified from the image forming apparatus based on the inquiry by the inquiry step;
A display step of displaying a user interface for performing processing linked to a device of the image forming apparatus based on the specific function information acquired in the first acquisition step;
A transmission step of transmitting setting information to be set to a device of the image forming apparatus to the image forming apparatus based on an operation instruction for a user interface displayed on the display unit;
An image processing method comprising: A second acquisition step of acquiring information processed by a device of the image forming apparatus;
A transfer step of transferring the information acquired by the second acquisition step to a transfer destination specified by an operation instruction for the user interface displayed on the display means;
The image processing method according to claim 11, further comprising:   The operation instruction for the user interface displayed on the display unit is an instruction to store information processed by the device of the image forming apparatus in a directory specified by an icon displayed on the display unit. The image processing method according to claim 11.   A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 13. A program for causing a computer to execute the image processing method according to any one of claims 8 to 10.

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