JP2009113390A - Image forming device, image forming system, information processing method, and computer program - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image forming device, an image forming system, an information processing method, and a computer program, which analyze and suitably process the contents of a request, in an image forming device to which a new function is added. <P>SOLUTION: The image forming device includes a list management means for managing a list of a function realizing means connected to the image forming device, a communication means for receiving a request from a client device in a first descriptive form, a request analysis means for analyzing the request to acquire and output identification information and a request item of the function realizing means included in the request, a data format holding means for holding a data format of the contents of processing corresponding to the request item for every function realizing means, and a means for acquiring the contents of processing which outputs the request item to the function realizing means in a data format of the contents of processing based on the output from the request analysis means and, in the absence of the contents of processing corresponding to the function realizing means, outputs the request item in a second descriptive form to the function realizing means. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2009,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming apparatus, an image forming system, an information processing method, and a computer program.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, there is a technique for updating the firmware by updating the firmware of devices connected via a network. For example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-139572 (Patent Document 1) discloses a remote management system or the like that avoids a decrease in the operating rate of an image forming apparatus by updating firmware of the image forming apparatus at a predetermined date and time. Technology is disclosed.

Also, for example, Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-252704 (Patent Document 2) discloses a technique of a device management apparatus that matches installed software versions between network connection devices connected via a network. It is disclosed.
JP 2004-139572 A JP 2004-252704 A

  However, the techniques disclosed in Patent Documents 1 and 2 do not consider the ease of adding a new function to the image forming apparatus. For example, in an image forming apparatus to which a new function is added, in order to execute processing related to the function, in addition to firmware that is a means for realizing the function, there is firmware that performs central control that outputs an instruction for each function. When updated, management and development of firmware that is upgraded every time a function is added or a combination of functions is changed becomes complicated.

  The present invention has been invented in order to solve these problems in view of the above points, and in an image forming apparatus to which a new function is added, image formation that analyzes and appropriately processes the contents of a request. It is an object to provide an apparatus, an image forming system, an information processing method, and a computer program.

  In order to achieve the above object, the image forming apparatus of the present invention employs the following configuration.

  An image forming apparatus according to the present invention includes a list managing unit that manages a list of function realizing units connected to the image forming apparatus, a communication unit that receives a request in a first description format from a client device, and the request. A request analysis unit that analyzes and obtains and outputs identification information and a request item of the function realizing unit included in the request, and holds a data format of processing contents corresponding to the request item for each function realizing unit Based on the output from the data format holding means and the request analyzing means, the request item is output to the function realizing means in the data format of the processing contents, and there is no processing contents corresponding to the function realizing means. In such a case, a processing content acquisition unit that outputs the request item to the function realization unit in a second description format may be provided. Kill.

  Thereby, in the image forming apparatus to which a new function is added, it is possible to provide an image forming apparatus that analyzes the contents of the request and processes them appropriately.

  In order to solve the above problem, the present invention further causes an image forming system having the image forming apparatus, an information processing method in the image forming apparatus or the image forming system, and a computer to execute the information processing method. It may be a computer program for this purpose.

  According to the image forming apparatus, the image forming system, the information processing method, and the computer program of the present invention, the image forming apparatus that analyzes the contents of the request and processes them appropriately in the image forming apparatus to which a new function is added, the image It is possible to provide a forming system, an information processing method, and a computer program.

Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
Embodiment of the present invention
(Figure explaining that each device processes one request)
FIG. 1 is a diagram for explaining that each device processes one request. In the image forming system of FIG. 1, a PC 15 as a client device includes a laser printer (hereinafter referred to as “LP”) 25, a multifunction device (hereinafter referred to as “MFP”) 35, an MFP 36, and a printer 45, and a network. Connected through. In FIG. 1, the LP 25, the MFP 35, the MFP 36, and the printing machine 45 are the same interface, and the protocol used for transmitting and receiving the request and its response is the same.

  In the image forming system of FIG. 1, the data format of the request has, for example, an XML format, and among the request items included in the request, only the request items corresponding to the function realization unit included in each device are included in each device. It is processed.

  That is, in the request a transmitted from the PC 15, the LP 25 performs processing on the request item of the part a1 corresponding to the function realizing unit included in the LP 25. Similarly, the MFP 36 performs processing on the request item of the part a2 that is a part corresponding to the function realization unit that the MFP 36 has. Since the MFP 35 and the printing machine 45 have function implementation units corresponding to all request items included in the request a, processing corresponding to them is performed. Such selection of request items is performed, for example, in a Web Service (hereinafter referred to as “WS”) unit included in each device.

  As shown in FIG. 1, the PC 15 can output a request without considering the function realization unit for each device. Thereby, the trouble of changing the function realization unit of the client corresponding to the function realization unit and version for each apparatus can be saved.

Here, for example, the PC 15 may access each device by the following two methods.
1. Information on MIB (Management Information Base) is accessed using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol).
2. SOAP (Simple Object Access Protocol) and XML data are used on HTTP (Hyper Text Transfer Protocol).

  Above 1. Then, the information defined by the MIB can be obtained by accessing from all devices, but the information other than the MIB cannot be obtained. On the other hand, the above 2. In this case, an interface is defined for each device, and information held by the device can be accessed. At that time, SOAP or XML is used. However, 2. Then, when the interface is different due to the difference in platform and version, the PC 15 side needs processing corresponding to the difference.

  In this embodiment, an interface is a “network interface” unless otherwise specified, and is information for identifying and calling a device such as a URL in SOAP, for example.

(Issues caused by selecting required items)
FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a problem caused by selecting required items in the WS unit. The image forming apparatus 37 in FIG. 2 includes a WS unit 371 and one or more function implementation units 372. Among the request items included in the request, the WS unit 371 acquires request items registered in advance and distributes them to the function implementation unit 372.

  However, when the function realization unit 372 is added later, a request item corresponding to the function realization unit may not be registered. In such a case, if the requested item is skipped by the WS unit 371, the function is not realized because the requested item is not transmitted even though the function implementing unit 372 is mounted. Arise.

(Example of transmitting unknown request items)
FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the distribution of request items that are not registered in advance among the request items included in the request. The image forming apparatus 38 in FIG. 3 includes a WS unit 381 and a function realizing unit 382. In FIG. 3, in the request a, both the part a <b> 2 related to the request item registered in advance and the part a <b> 1 related to the request item not registered are distributed to the function implementation unit 382 by the WS unit 381. Thereby, the function implementation unit 382 can execute the processing content corresponding to the request item.

  Request items that are not registered in advance are, for example, request items for which the WS unit 381 cannot acquire a data format corresponding to the request item. Such a state occurs, for example, when the function realization unit 382 is a function realization unit related to a function newly added to the image forming apparatus 38.

(Example of transmitting an unknown response item)
FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining processing for generating a message including response items not registered in advance. In FIG. 4, response items are output from the function implementation units 382 included in the image forming apparatus 38 to the WS unit 381. These response items may be in a predetermined data format corresponding to each function realization unit. However, when the WS unit 381 cannot acquire the data format corresponding to the function realizing unit, the response item is acquired in a predetermined description format.

  Note that the function implementation unit 382 that the WS unit 381 cannot acquire the data format of the response item is, for example, a function implementation unit related to a function newly added to the image forming apparatus 38, and for example, the function thereof. This is a function realization unit for which the data format of the request item for the realization unit could not be acquired.

(Example of system configuration)
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. In the image forming system of FIG. 5, PC1, PC2, PC3... And MFP4, MFP5, MFP6. Accordingly, each PC outputs a request to each MFP and receives a response from each MFP.

(Example of MFP device configuration)
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the apparatus configuration of an MFP that is an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. 6 includes, for example, an information processing logic unit 310, an information access unit 330, an information holding unit 340, a communication server unit 351, a communication client unit 352, and a network interface (hereinafter referred to as “I / F”) 390. Have

  The information processing logic unit 310 analyzes a request from the client device and generates a response to the client device. The information processing logic unit 310 includes, for example, a data processing unit 311. The data processing unit 311 parses a request described in XML and generates a response described in XML.

  The information access unit 330 acquires the information held in the information holding unit 340 based on the request item included in the request analyzed by the information processing logic unit 310, and edits and replaces the information, or the information And stored in the information holding unit 340. The information holding unit 340 stores the state of the image forming apparatus 300, identification information for each operator, image data, and the like.

  The communication server unit 351 and the communication client unit 352 are means for communicating with the client device. A network I / F 390 is an interface for connecting the image forming apparatus 300 and a LAN.

(Example of functional configuration of image forming system of this embodiment)
FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of the image forming system according to the present embodiment. In the image forming system of FIG. 7, an image forming apparatus 500 and a client PC 600 are connected. Note that the image forming apparatus 500 and the client PC 600 may be connected via a network or may be directly connected.

  The image forming apparatus 500 includes, for example, an information processing logic unit 510, a function realizing unit 530, a list managing unit 541, a data format holding unit 542, and a communication unit 550. The information processing logic unit 510 analyzes a request transmitted from the client PC 600 and acquires a request item included therein. The information processing logic unit 510 also generates a response corresponding to the request item.

  The information processing logic unit 510 includes, for example, a request analysis unit 511, a processing content acquisition unit 512, a response generation unit 513, and a message generation unit 514. The request analysis unit 511 analyzes a request described in the first description format according to the syntax. The first description format is, for example, a description format expressed in XML and in which items are identified by a name space. The request analysis unit 511 is configured as an XML parser, for example. Thereby, the request item included in the request can be acquired.

  The processing content acquisition unit 512 acquires the identification information of the function realization unit and the processing content corresponding to the request item based on the content analyzed by the request analysis unit 511. For example, the processing content acquisition unit 512 converts the request item into the processing content in the data format based on the data format for each function realizing unit held in the data format holding unit 542.

  When the data format corresponding to the request item cannot be acquired, the processing content acquisition unit 512 converts the request item into a predetermined description format. The predetermined description format is, for example, a second description format, and may be configured as a class having a namespace name, a variable or tag name, and a value.

  Note that the case where the data format cannot be acquired means that, for example, the function realizing unit corresponding to the request item is newly added, and thus the identification information is managed by the list management unit 541, but the data format For example, the holding unit 542 does not register a data format that serves as a data interface with the function implementing unit.

  As a result, it is possible to output a request item and instruct processing to a newly added function realizing unit included in the image forming apparatus 500.

  The response generation unit 513 generates a response corresponding to the request item processed by the function implementation unit 530. The response generated by the response generation unit 513 is based on, for example, the version to which the image forming apparatus 500 belongs. The response generated by the response generation unit 513 includes a response item output from the function implementation unit 530.

  The response generation unit 513 converts the response item in the data format corresponding to each function realization unit output from the function realization unit 530, and generates a response in the first description format. Further, when the response item output from the function realization unit 530 is in the second description format, the response generation unit 513 extracts necessary information from the response item and converts it into a response in the first description format. Include that information.

  When the response item is in the second description format, the function realizing unit is added to the image forming apparatus 500 later, and the identification information is registered in the list managing unit 541. For example, the data format holding unit 542 does not register a data format that serves as a data interface with the function implementing unit.

  As a result, it is possible to generate a response corresponding to the response item output by the newly added function realizing unit included in the image forming apparatus 500.

  The message generation unit 514 generates a message in which information related to the state of the image forming apparatus 500 is described in a predetermined description format based on a predetermined event in the image forming apparatus 500. The predetermined event is, for example, the occurrence of an error in the image forming apparatus 500, and more specifically, the occurrence of a state where the door is open, a state where there is no paper, or the like. The message generated by the message generating unit 514 includes a status item output from the function realizing unit 530.

  The message generation unit 514 converts the status item in the data format corresponding to each function implementation unit output from the function implementation unit 530, and generates a message in the first description format. Further, when the status item output from the function realization unit 530 is in the second description format, the message generation unit 514 extracts necessary information from the status item and converts it into a message in the first description format. Include that information.

  The case where the status item is in the second description format is the same case as the case where the response item is in the second description format. As a result, a message corresponding to the status item output by the newly added function realizing unit included in the image forming apparatus 500 can be generated.

  The function realization unit 530 executes a corresponding process based on the request item acquired by the process content acquisition unit 512. For example, the function realization unit 530 acquires and outputs information stored in a storage unit (not shown), edits and replaces information stored in the storage unit, and replaces new information based on a request item. Generate and store in storage means. In addition to the above, the storage unit stores information related to the state of the image forming apparatus 500, image data of an image processed by the image forming apparatus 500, information on an operator who uses the image forming apparatus 500, and the like. May be held.

  The function realization unit 530 may perform processing related to the image forming function, the communication function, the facsimile function, and the like that the image forming apparatus 500 has in addition to performing processing related to the information stored in the storage unit. In addition to the configuration of the image forming apparatus 500, the function realizing unit 530 may be configured to be connected to the image forming apparatus 500.

  The list management unit 541 holds and manages a list of function realizing units included in the image forming apparatus 500. When the function realization unit 530 is newly added, the list managed by the list management unit 541 is updated.

  The data format holding unit 542 holds the data format of request items, response items, and / or status items corresponding to each function realizing unit. Thereby, the processing content acquisition unit 512 and the like can convert between the first description format and the data format corresponding to each function realizing unit.

  The communication unit 550 communicates with the client PC 600, for example, receives a request and transmits a response or a message.

  The client PC 600 transmits a request to the image forming apparatus 500 and receives a response that is a response to the request. As a result, the client PC 600 controls the image forming apparatus 500 and manages information included in the image forming apparatus 500.

  The client PC 600 includes, for example, an information processing logic unit 610 and a communication unit 650. The information processing logic unit 610 generates a request to be transmitted to the image forming apparatus 500 and analyzes a response transmitted from the image forming apparatus 500. As a result, the status of the image forming apparatus 500 can be acquired. The status may be information held by the image forming apparatus 500 in addition to the state of the image forming apparatus 500.

  The information processing logic unit 610 includes, for example, a request generation unit 611, a response analysis unit 612, and a status acquisition unit 613. The request generation unit 611 generates a request including a request item requested to the image forming apparatus 500. The request generated by the request generation unit 611 is expressed in the first description format, for example.

  The response analysis unit 612 analyzes the response or message transmitted from the image forming apparatus 500. Hereinafter, a response will be described as an example, but a message is similarly processed. The response analysis unit 612 is configured as an XML parser when the response is described in XML, for example.

  The status acquisition unit 613 acquires the status of the image forming apparatus 500 based on the response item or situation item analyzed by the response analysis unit 612. Further, the status acquisition unit 613 distributes response items to the function realization unit 630 based on the acquired status. Thereby, each function realization means can perform the process corresponding to the response item.

  The status acquisition unit 613 converts the response item into a data format corresponding to each function realizing unit. Further, when the data format corresponding to the response item is not held in the data format holding unit 642, the status acquisition unit 613 converts the response item into the second description format and outputs it.

  Note that the case where the response item is in the second description format is the same case as that in the image forming apparatus 500, for example, the response item corresponding to the function realizing unit 630 newly added to the client device 600. This is the case. Thereby, it is possible to output response items or status items to newly added function realizing means of the client device and to execute processing corresponding to them.

  The functions and configurations of the function realization unit 630, the list management unit 641, the data format holding unit 642, and the communication unit 650 are the same as the units having the same names in the image forming apparatus 500 and can be easily understood. Is omitted.

(Example of processing based on a request from a client (part 1))
FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram of an example of processing based on a request from a client in the image forming apparatus 300. In step S <b> 101 of FIG. 8, a request is transmitted from the PC 100 to the communication server unit 351. The request includes, for example, a request item for setting a condition and referring to, changing, or deleting information. The request may also be sent as an http request, for example. The request is described in a first description format using a description language such as XML, for example.

  Progressing to step S102 following step S101, the communication server unit 351 outputs a request for processing the request received in step S101 to the information processing logic unit 310. The request is, for example, a request for processing for manipulating address book data held in the information holding unit 340 of the image forming apparatus 500.

  In step S103 following step S102, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a request for analyzing the request data to the data processing unit 311.

Proceeding to step S104 following step S103, the data processing unit 311 analyzes the request to acquire a request item included in the request. The request is, for example, an atom publishing protocol (hereinafter referred to as “APP”).
, Atom, or other extended description format. Therefore, the data processing unit 311 obtains the request item and the identification information of the requested function realization unit according to each description format. Here, for example, the identification information of the information access unit 330 is acquired.

  Based on the acquired identification information of the function realization unit, the data processing unit 311 converts the request item into a data format corresponding to the function realization unit to obtain the processing content. If there is no data format corresponding to the function realization unit, the request item is converted to a predetermined second description format.

  For example, when the request is described in XML, the second description format may include a namespace name to which the request item belongs, a variable name or a tag name, and a value.

  Progressing to step S105 following step S104, the data processing unit 311 sends to the information processing logic unit 310 a request item converted into the acquired processing content or the second description format, and a notification that the analysis of the request has been completed. Is output. Based on this, the information processing logic unit 310 acquires the request item converted into the processing content corresponding to each request item or the second description format.

  Progressing to step S106 following step S105, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a request to execute the processing content to the information access unit 330. Progressing to step S107 following step S106, the information access unit 330 accesses the information holding unit 340, whereby processing based on the request received in step S101 is performed.

  Proceeding to step S108 following step S107, the information processing unit 340 outputs a notification that the processing has been completed to the information access unit 330. Proceeding to step S109 following step S108, the information access unit 330 outputs a notification that the processing is completed to the information processing logic unit 310. Progressing to step S110 following step S109, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a request for notifying the PC 100 that the processing has been completed, to the communication server unit 351. Proceeding to step S111 following step S110, the communication server unit 351 transmits a notification that the processing is completed to the PC 100. Here, for example, it is transmitted as an http response.

(Example of processing based on a request from a client (part 2))
FIG. 9 is a sequence diagram of an example of processing based on a request from a client in the image forming apparatus 300, and is an example of processing in which a response is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 300 to the PC 100. Steps S201 to S208 in FIG. 9 are the same as steps S101 to S108 in FIG.

  In step S209 subsequent to step S208, a response item indicating that the processing has been completed is output from the information access unit 330 to the information processing logic unit 310. The response item may be in a predetermined data format corresponding to the information processing logic unit 310, or may be in a second description format, for example. For example, when the response is described in XML, the second description format may include a name space name, a variable name or a tag name to which the response item belongs, and a value.

  In step S210 following step S209, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a request for generating a response to the data processing unit 311. Progressing to step S211 following step S210, the data processing unit 311 generates a response including a response item corresponding to each processing content processed in step S204 or the like. The response is described in the first description format, and is expressed in XML, for example. More specifically, it is expressed by APP, Atom, or other extended format. Which format is used depends on, for example, the description content of the request that the response should be returned in, and the support status of the format of the image forming apparatus.

  Progressing to step S212 following step S211, the data processing unit 311 outputs a notification that the generation of the response has been completed and a response to the information processing logic unit 310. Note that the output of the response may also serve as a notification that the generation of the response has been completed.

  Proceeding to step S213 following step S212, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a response and a request for transmitting the response to the communication server unit 351. In step S214 following step S213, a response is transmitted from the communication server unit 351 to the PC 100.

(Example of processing to generate and send a message)
FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram illustrating an example of processing when a message based on a predetermined event is transmitted from the image forming apparatus 500 to the PC 100. In step S301 in FIG. 10, an event occurrence is notified from the trigger module to the information processing logic unit 310. An event is an occurrence of an abnormality such as, for example, a door that the image forming apparatus 500 has opened.

  In step S302 following step S301, a data acquisition request is output from the information processing logic unit 310 to the information access unit 330. This is because the content notified in step S301 is information indicating that an event has occurred, and details thereof can be obtained by referring to information held by the information holding unit 340.

  Progressing to step S303 following step S302, a data acquisition request is output from the information access unit 330 to the information holding unit 340. Progressing to step S304 following step S303, data is output from the information holding unit 340 to the information access unit 330. This data includes detailed information about the event. Progressing to step S305 following step S304, the data acquired in step S304 is output from the information access unit 330 to the information processing logic unit 310.

  The data format of the data output from the information access unit 330 may be a data format corresponding to the information access unit 330, or may be a format described by a second description format, for example.

  Progressing to step S306 following step S305, the information processing logic unit 310 outputs a message generation request to the data processing unit 311. Progressing to step S307 following step S306, the data processing unit 311 generates a message based on the detailed information of the event included in the data. The message is represented by a predetermined description format. Proceeding to step S308 following step S307, the data processing unit 311 outputs a notification of completion of message creation and a message to the information processing logic unit 310. Note that a message may be output to serve as a notification of completion of creation.

  Proceeding to step S309 following step S308, a message transmission request is output from the information processing logic unit 310 to the communication client unit 352. In step S310 following step S309, a message is output from the communication client unit 352 to the PC 100. Here, for example, it is transmitted as an http request.

  Progressing to step S311 following step S310, the notification that the message has been received is transmitted from the PC 100 to the communication client unit 352. Here, for example, it is transmitted as an http response. Progressing to step S312 following step S311, the communication client unit 352 outputs a notification that the message has been received to the information processing logic unit 310.

(Example of processing to analyze request)
FIG. 11 is a flowchart of an example of processing in which a request is analyzed in the information processing logic unit 310 and the data processing unit 311. The process in FIG. 11 is executed by the request analysis unit 511 in, for example, step S104 in FIG. 8 or step S204 in FIG. In step S <b> 401 of FIG. 11, a request is input to the data processing unit 311.

  FIG. 12 shows an example of a request. FIG. 12 is an example of a request for adding a new record to an address book held in a storage unit (not shown) included in the image forming apparatus 500, for example. Note that the storage unit may have one configuration with the data format holding unit 542, for example.

  The request in FIG. 12 includes an HTTP request header part R1 and R2 that is a main body including a request item. The description of the part to which the symbol e is attached in the main body R2 indicates that this request is described in Atom and the extended format defined by the name space a and the name space vendor. The extended format defined by the name space “vendor” corresponds to a request item for the newly added function in the present embodiment.

  R3 is a portion described in an extended format. R3 includes a mail address corresponding to the name “foo”, information related to a record such as a facsimile number, and one request item. R3 further includes a value g having a tag identified by the name space vendor.

  Returning to FIG. 11, the process proceeds to step S <b> 402 following step S <b> 401, and the request analysis unit 511 analyzes the request from the top to determine the standard format part. Here, it is determined whether the standard format is A format or B format, and if it is A format, the process proceeds to step S403, and if it is B format, the process proceeds to step S406.

  Note that the standard format refers to, for example, APP or Atom, which is a general-purpose standard, when a request is described in XML. Further, the embodiment of the present invention is not limited to an example of processing one standard format out of two types, and may process any one or more standard formats from a plurality of three or more standard formats. Good.

  In step S403 to step S405 following step S402, the request analysis unit 511 acquires a request item for a portion described in the A format. Further, the processing content acquisition unit 512 acquires the processing content corresponding to the request item. The processing content acquired here has a data format corresponding to each function realization means. This process is repeated until all the portions described in the A format are processed.

  Note that the identification information of the function realizing unit is acquired by the request analyzing unit 511. The identification information of the function realization means may be included for each request item in the request, or may be included in association with each description format in the request.

  On the other hand, in step S406 to step S408 following step S402, the request analysis unit 511 and the processing content acquisition unit 512 perform the same processing as in step S403 to step S405 for the portion described in the B format.

  After the process of the part described in the standard format is completed, the process proceeds to the process of the original format. In step S409, the request analysis unit 511 determines whether there is a unique format in the request. If there is a unique format, the process proceeds to step S410. If there is no unique format, the process proceeds to step S414. Note that the determination in step S409 may be the determination of the presence or absence of the item group of the request items corresponding to the function processed by the image forming apparatus 500, instead of the presence or absence of the unique format. If there is a group of request items corresponding to the function processed by the image forming apparatus 500, the process proceeds to step S410, and if not, the process proceeds to step S415.

  In steps S410 to S414 following step S409, the request analysis unit 511 repeats the process of acquiring the request items included in the request until all the request items are acquired. Each time a request item is acquired, in step S411, the processing content acquisition unit 512 determines whether or not the processing content corresponding to the request item is registered. If the processing content is registered, the processing content is registered in step S412. If the process contents are not registered, the process proceeds to step S413.

  In step S412, following step S411, the processing content acquisition unit 512 acquires the processing content. The processing content acquired here has a data format corresponding to each function realization means. On the other hand, in step S413 following step S411, the processing content acquisition unit 512 converts the request item into the second description format.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram for explaining the conversion of the request item into the second description format. In FIG. 13, a request item h1 is formed from the name space to which the symbol f is attached and the element to which the symbol g1 is attached, and the request item h2 is formed from the name space to which the symbol f is attached and an element to which the symbol g2 is attached. Is done.

  As a result, even if there is a request item for a function not registered in the image forming apparatus 500 in the request, the function can be executed. Therefore, even when there is a newly added function realization means for the image forming apparatus 500, a client device or the like that generates a request can output a request for the function.

  Returning to FIG. 11, after the process of step S409 or step S413, the process proceeds to step S414, and the acquired processing content is output to the information processing logic unit 310.

(Example of processing to generate response or message)
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of an example of processing in which a response or a message is generated in the information processing logic unit 310 and the data processing unit 311. The process of FIG. 12 is executed by, for example, the response generation unit 513 in step S211 of FIG. 9, and for example, is executed by the message generation unit in step S307 of FIG. Here, an example executed by the response generation unit 513 will be described.

  In step S501 in FIG. 14, response item data included in the response is input from the information processing logic unit 310 to the data processing unit 311. Proceeding to step S502 following step S501, the response generation unit 513 selects a response description format based on the input data. Here, when the standard format portion is selected and described in the A format, the process proceeds to step S503, and when described in the B format, the process proceeds to step S506.

  The embodiment of the present invention is not limited to an example in which any one of two standard formats is selected, and any one or more of a plurality of standard formats is selected and a response described in the standard format is selected. May be generated.

  In step S503 to step S505 following step S502, the response generation means generates data in which the response item is described in the A format until there is no response item data described in the A format. On the other hand, in steps S506 to S508 following step S502, data in which the response items are described in the B format is generated until there is no response item data described in the B format.

  In step S509 following step S505 or step S508, the response generation unit 513 determines whether there is any data described in a unique format among the data of the response item. If there is something described in a unique format, the process proceeds to step S510.

  In step S510 to step S513 following step S509, the response generating unit 513 repeats the process of describing the response item in the unique format until there is no response item data described in the unique format. In step S511, the response generation unit 513 determines whether the response item is unknown data. Unknown data is, for example, data whose response items do not have a pre-registered data format. The unknown data is described in the second description format, for example. The second description format includes, for example, a namespace name, a variable name or a tag name, and a value.

  If it is known data, the process proceeds to step S512, and if it is unknown data, the process proceeds to step S513. In step S512 following step S511, the response generation unit 513 refers to the data format of the acquired response item and generates a response in the first description format. On the other hand, in step S513 following step S511, the response generation unit 513 generates a response in the first description format from the acquired response items in the second description format.

  FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating that a response in the first description format is generated from response items in the second description format. In FIG. 15, the name space s and the element t1 are generated from the response item to which the symbol r1 is attached, and the name space s and the element t2 are generated from the response item to which the symbol r2 is attached.

  Returning to FIG. 14, the process proceeds to step S 513 following step S 509 or step S 512, and the response generated by the response generation unit 513 is output to the information processing logic unit 310.

(Example response)
16 and 17 are diagrams for explaining examples of responses. FIG. 16 is an example of a response generated in response to the request of FIG. In FIG. 16, the content processed based on the request of FIG. 12 is included. That is, the name “foo”, which is the contents of the record added to the address book, the mail address corresponding to the name, the facsimile number, and the like are included as one response item. Furthermore, the response item of the operation process for the address book identified by the name space “vendor” is included in the part denoted by the reference symbol u1.

  FIG. 17 is an example of a response generated in response to the request of FIG. 12, and is an example of a response different from FIG. The response of FIG. 17 does not include response items related to faxAddress and faxNumber. This is because the function of the image forming apparatus that generated this response does not have the function of including these pieces of information in the address book.

  When editing data in the address book, an HTTP PUT may be used to input a request and output a response as a response. In addition, when referring to data in the address book, response data may be output using HTTP GET. When deleting data in the address book, HTTP DELETE may be used, and there is no need to exchange request and response data.

(Message example)
FIG. 18 is an example of a message. FIG. 18A is an example of a message for notifying the client PC that an abnormality has occurred in the image forming apparatus, and FIG. 18B is output from the client PC in response to the message. It is an example of a response.

  In FIG. 18A, the name space with the reference symbol w1 and the element with the reference symbol w2 are response items obtained by conversion from the second description format. Here, the message is transmitted as an HTTP request, and the response is returned as an HTTP response.

(Another embodiment of image forming apparatus)
FIGS. 19 to 21 are diagrams illustrating the present embodiment in another apparatus of the image forming apparatus. 19 and 20 are diagrams for explaining an intermediary device via data transmitted from the image forming apparatus 39 to the information collection server 70. FIG.

  In FIG. 19, data a is output from the image forming apparatus 39 to the information collecting server 70. In the intermediary device 80 via the data between the image forming apparatus 39 and the information collection server 70, the a1 that is the extension portion of the data a is skipped, and a2 that is the remaining portion corresponds to the information collection server 70. Convert to description format and output. Thereby, the information of a1 which is the skipped portion is not transmitted to the information collection server 70.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram for explaining that the problem of FIG. 19 is solved. In FIG. 20, the mediation device 81 converts the data a output from the image forming apparatus 39 into a description format a ′ corresponding to the information collection server 70 and outputs it. At this time, the unknown data portion is transmitted to the information collection server 70 as a general-purpose data format, for example, by converting it to the second description format, although it is not a data format corresponding to the information collection server 70. be able to. Thereby, the information collection server 70 can acquire all the information output from the image forming apparatus 39.

  FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a client device that acquires and processes messages from the image forming apparatus 39. The client device 16 in FIG. 21 includes a communication unit 161, a function implementation unit 162, and a function implementation unit 163. The communication unit 161 acquires the message m from the image forming apparatus 39.

  The acquired message m is analyzed by the response analysis unit 612, and the status item registered in advance is acquired by the status acquisition unit 613. The status acquisition unit 613 also converts the status item to the second description format when there is content of the status item that is not registered among the status items included in the response.

  The function realization part 162 acquires the situation item converted into the data format corresponding to the function realization part 162, and performs the process corresponding to the situation item. On the other hand, the function realization part 163 acquires the status item converted into the 2nd description format, and performs the process corresponding to the status item.

  Thereby, even when a new function realization unit is added in the client device 16, input / output to the function realization unit is performed in a general-purpose description format without registering a data format corresponding to the function. Can do.

(Computer configuration)
FIG. 22 is a configuration diagram of a computer that realizes the image forming apparatus or the client apparatus of the present embodiment. 22 includes a main processing unit 400, an input device 410, a display device 420, a printer 430, a scanner 440, and an HDD 490. The main processing unit 400 is a main part that realizes the functions of a computer, and includes a CPU 401, a ROM 408, and a RAM 409. The CPU 401 reads the computer program from the ROM 408 and the like and develops it in the RAM 409, thereby executing the computer program of this embodiment. A ROM 408 is a non-volatile memory, and holds a program executed by the CPU 401, parameters necessary for controlling the image forming apparatus or the client apparatus, and the like. A RAM 409 is a work memory when the CPU 401 performs processing.

  The input device 410 is a keyboard or the like, for example, and is used when an operator inputs an instruction. The display device 420 displays the status of the computer. The printer 430 is an apparatus that forms and outputs an image on a medium, and the scanner 440 is an apparatus that optically reads an image formed on the medium. The HDD 490 stores a large amount of data such as image data.

  In addition to being stored in the HDD 490 or the ROM 408, the computer program of this embodiment may be stored in a recording medium that can be inserted into a drive device (not shown).

  Although the best mode for carrying out the invention has been described above, the present invention is not limited to the embodiment described in the best mode. Modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the present invention.

The figure explaining that each apparatus processes one request. The figure explaining the subject which arises by selecting a requirement item. The figure explaining the example which transmits an unknown request | requirement item. The figure explaining the example which transmits an unknown response item. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image forming system according to an embodiment. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of the apparatus configuration of an MFP that is an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a functional configuration of an image forming system according to the present embodiment. FIG. The sequence diagram of the example of the process based on the request from a client. The sequence diagram of the example of the process based on the request from a client, and the process which transmits a response. The sequence diagram of the example of a process when the message based on an event is transmitted. The flowchart of the example of a process by which a request is analyzed. Example request. The figure explaining converting a requirement item into the 2nd description format. The flowchart of the example of the process by which a response or a message is produced | generated. The figure explaining that the response by a 1st description format is produced | generated from the response item by a 2nd description format. Example of response (part 1). Example of response (part 2). Example message. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining an intermediary device via data transmitted from an image forming apparatus to an information collection server (part 1); FIG. 2 is a diagram for explaining an intermediary device via data transmitted from an image forming apparatus to an information collection server (part 2); FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a client device that acquires and processes messages from an image forming apparatus. 1 is a configuration diagram of a computer that realizes an image forming apparatus or a client apparatus of the present embodiment.

Explanation of symbols

1, 2, 3 PC
4, 5, 6, 35, 36, 300 MFP
15 Client device 25 LP
37, 38 Image forming apparatus 45 Printing machine 310, 510, 610 Information processing logic unit 311 Data processing unit 330 Information access unit 340 Information holding unit 351 Communication server unit 352 Communication client unit 390 Network interface 400 Computer main processing unit 401 CPU
408 ROM
409 RAM
410 Input device 420 Display device 430 Printer 440 Scanner 490 HDD
500 Image forming apparatus 511 Request analysis unit 512 Processing content acquisition unit 513 Response generation unit 514 Message generation unit 530 and 630 Function realization unit 541 and 641 List management unit 542 and 642 Data format holding unit 550 and 650 Communication unit 611 Request generation unit 612 Response analysis means 613 Status acquisition means

Claims (22)

A list management means for managing a list of function realizing means connected to the image forming apparatus;
Communication means for receiving a request in a first description format from a client device;
Request analysis means for analyzing the request and obtaining and outputting identification information and request items of the function realizing means included in the request;
Data format holding means for holding the data format of the processing content corresponding to the request item for each function realizing means,
Based on the output from the request analysis means, the request item is output in the data format of the processing content to the function realizing means, and if there is no processing content corresponding to the function realizing means, the request Processing content acquisition means for outputting items to the function realizing means in a second description format;
An image forming apparatus. Each of the required items belongs to any one of a plurality of item groups,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the request includes a request item of any one or more of the item groups.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the processing content acquisition unit determines whether there is processing content corresponding to the request item based on an item group to which the request item belongs. The data format holding unit further holds a data format of a response item corresponding to the processing content for each function realizing unit,
Obtaining a response item in the data format of the response item and / or a response item in the second description format from the function realization means, and sending a response in which the response item is described in the first description format Response generating means for generating,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit further transmits the response to the client apparatus.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 4, wherein the response item belongs to an item group to which a request item of processing content corresponding to the response item belongs. The data format holding means further holds, for each function realizing means, a data format of status items relating to the state of the function realizing means,
A message for acquiring a status item in the data format of the status item and / or the second description format from the function realizing means, and generating a message in which the status item is described in the first description format Generating means;
Have
The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit further transmits the message to the client apparatus. The first description format is a description format represented by XML,
The image forming apparatus according to claim 2, wherein the item group is identified by a name space.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit receives the request according to a predetermined protocol.   The image forming apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the communication unit communicates with the client apparatus through a predetermined interface. An image forming system in which a client device and an image forming apparatus are connected,
The client device is
Request generating means for generating a request having a request item for the image forming apparatus in a first description format;
A first communication means for transmitting the request;
Have
The image forming apparatus includes:
A second list management means for managing a list of second function realizing means connected to the image forming apparatus;
A second communication means for receiving a request in a first description format from the client device;
Request analysis means for analyzing the request and obtaining and outputting the identification information and the request item of the second function realizing means included in the request;
Second data format holding means for holding the data format of the processing content corresponding to the request item for each of the second function realizing means;
Based on the output from the request analysis unit, the request item is output to the second function realization unit in the data format of the process content, and there is no processing content corresponding to the second function realization unit. In this case, a processing content acquisition unit that outputs the request item to the second function realization unit in a second description format;
An image forming system. In the image forming apparatus,
The data format holding means further holds a data format of a response item corresponding to the processing content for each of the second function realizing means,
The response item in the data format of the response item and / or the response item in the second description format is acquired from the second function realization means, and the response item is described in the first description format. Response generating means for generating a response,
The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the second communication unit further transmits the response to the client device. The client device further includes:
Receiving the response by the first communication means;
First list management means for managing a list of first function realizing means connected to the client device;
Response analysis means for analyzing the response and obtaining and outputting the identification information and response items of the function realizing means included in the response;
First data format holding means for holding the data format of the processing content corresponding to the response item for each function realizing means;
Based on the output from the response analysis means, the response item is output to the first function realization means in a predetermined data format, and there is no data format corresponding to the first function realization means Processing contents acquisition means for outputting the response items to the first function realization means in a second description format;
The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising: Each of the response items belongs to any one of a plurality of item groups,
The response has a response item of any one or more of the item groups,
The image forming system according to claim 12, wherein the status acquisition unit acquires a status of the image forming apparatus corresponding to the response item based on an item group to which the response item belongs.   The image forming system according to claim 11, wherein the transmission of the request by the first communication unit and the transmission of the response by the second communication unit are performed according to a predetermined protocol.   The image forming system according to claim 10, wherein the second communication unit communicates with the client device through a predetermined interface. An information processing method in an image forming apparatus,
A receiving step for receiving a request in a first description format from the client device;
A request analysis step of analyzing the request and obtaining and outputting the identification information and the request item of the function realizing means included in the request;
Based on the output from the request analysis step, the request item is output in the data format of the processing content to the function realization means, and if there is no processing content corresponding to the function realization means, the request A processing content acquisition step of outputting items to the function realizing means in a second description format;
An information processing method comprising: Each of the required items belongs to any one of a plurality of item groups,
The information processing method according to claim 16, wherein the request includes a request item of any one or more of the item groups. Obtaining a response item in the data format of the response item and / or a response item in the second description format from the function realization means, and sending a response in which the response item is described in the first description format A response generation step to generate,
A transmission step of transmitting the response to the client device;
The information processing method according to claim 16 or 17, further comprising: An information processing method in an image forming system in which a client device and an image forming device are connected,
A request generation step in which the client apparatus generates a request having a request item for the image forming apparatus in a first description format;
A transmitting step in which the client device transmits the request;
A receiving step in which the image forming apparatus receives a request in a first description format from the client apparatus;
A request analysis step in which the image forming apparatus analyzes the request and acquires and outputs the identification information and the request item of the function realization unit included in the request;
Based on the output from the request analysis step, the image forming apparatus outputs the request item to the function implementation unit in the data format of the process content, and there is no processing content corresponding to the function implementation unit In this case, a processing content acquisition step of outputting the request item to the first function realization unit in a second description format;
An information processing method comprising: An information processing method in a client device that communicates with an image forming apparatus,
A receiving step of receiving a response in a first description format from the image forming apparatus;
A response analysis step of analyzing the response and obtaining and outputting the identification information and response items of the function realizing means included in the response;
Based on the output from the response analysis step, the response item is output to the function realization means in a predetermined data format, and when there is no data format corresponding to the function realization means, the response item is A processing content acquisition step for outputting to the first function realization means in a second description format;
An information processing method comprising:   A computer program for causing a computer to execute the information processing method according to any one of claims 16 to 20.   A computer-readable information recording medium storing the computer program according to claim 21.

Images