JP2011044012A - Image processing system and program for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

<P>PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image processing system, and a program for the same. <P>SOLUTION: The image processing system has: one or more image processor to which management information is attached and which processes image data according to setting information; and one or more computers. The image processor has: an information setting means for setting the information; a first information transmission means for transmitting the information to a computer which has made a request; an image processing means for processing image data transmitted by the computer according to the setting information; and a processing means for processing image data from the computer according to the set setting information. The computer has: a first information request means for using management information to request the image processor to transmit the information; and a generation-transmission means for using the setting information returned from the image processor to generate image data to be processed by the image processor, and transmitting the generated image data to the image processor. <P>COPYRIGHT: (C)2011,JPO&INPIT

Description

  The present invention relates to an image processing system and a program thereof.

  For example, in Patent Document 1, when various network devices are connected to a network, when the printer is connected to a network via a network adapter, an appropriate value that should be set in order for the printer to operate normally on the network A network setting method for acquiring various setting values from a server computer and automatically setting them in a nonvolatile memory in an adapter is disclosed.

JP 2000-259538 A

  An object of the present invention is to provide an image processing system and a program therefor for notifying setting information of an image processing apparatus to a computer connected to a network.

  The invention according to claim 1 of the present application includes one or more image processing devices that are provided with management information and process image data according to setting information, and one or more computers that are communicably connected to the image processing device. The image processing apparatus requests the management information and the setting information or any one of them according to a request from the computer, and an information setting unit in which the management information and the setting information are set. First information transmitting means for transmitting to the computer, image processing means for processing image data sent from the computer according to the set setting information, and the image data from the computer are set. And processing means for processing in accordance with the setting information, and the computer is configured to manage the management information and the setting information or these The image processing apparatus uses a first transmission requesting unit that requests the image processing apparatus to transmit any of the transmissions using the management information, and setting information returned from the image processing apparatus in response to the request. The image processing system includes generating / transmitting means for generating image data to be processed and transmitting the generated image data to the image processing apparatus.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, the generation / transmission unit of the computer generates image data to be printed by the image processing device, transmits the image data to the image processing device, and the processing unit of the image processing device. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the image data sent from the computer is printed.

  In the invention according to claim 3 of the present application, the image processing apparatus transmits the management information and the setting information or any one of them to the computer using the management information when determined in advance. The computer further includes a second transmission requesting unit for requesting, and the computer transmits the management information and / or the setting information using the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus. The image processing system according to claim 1, further comprising a second information transmission unit.

  In the invention according to claim 4 of the present application, when the computer changes the management information and the setting information or any one of them, the computer displays at least the changed management information and the setting information or any one of the images. 3. A third information transmitting means for transmitting to the processing apparatus, wherein the information setting means of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information sent from the computer. The image processing system according to claim 1.

  In the invention according to claim 5 of the present application, the generation / transmission unit of the computer transmits the management information and the setting information or the generated information to the image processing apparatus by attaching the management information and the setting information to the image processing apparatus. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the processing apparatus receives the management information and the setting information set sent from the computer.

The invention according to claim 6 of the present application is that the generation / transmission unit of the computer attaches the management information and the setting information to the generated image data when predetermined, and adds the management information and the setting information to the image processing apparatus. Send
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer.

  In the invention according to claim 7 of the present application, the image processing apparatus transmits the management information and the setting information or any one of these to the computer using the management information when determined in advance. A third transmission requesting unit for requesting, wherein the generation / transmission unit of the computer uses the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus, and the management information and the setting information The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein any one of the above is attached to the generated image data and transmitted to the image processing apparatus.

In the invention according to claim 8 of the present application, the image processing apparatus transmits the management information and the setting information or any one of these to the computer using the management information when determined in advance. The computer further includes requesting fourth transmission requesting means, and the computer transmits the management information and / or the setting information using the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus. A fourth information transmission unit; and a fifth information transmission unit configured to transmit the management information and the setting information to the image processing apparatus when the request from the image processing apparatus is not received. 3. The image according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer. An image processing system.

  In the invention according to claim 9, the management information and the setting information are set in advance in the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus, the management information includes an identifier, and the computer is determined in advance. In some cases, the image processing apparatus further includes fifth transmission requesting means for requesting the image processing apparatus to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the identifier. In response to a request from the computer, the information transmission means includes the management information and the setting information using the identifier, or the management information corresponding to the identifier to the computer that has requested transmission of any of them. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the setting information or any one of the setting information is transmitted.

  In the invention according to claim 10 of the present application, the first image processing device of the one or more image processing devices includes the management information related to the second image processing device of the one or more image processing devices, and Storage means for storing the setting information, and sixth information transmission means for transmitting the stored management information or setting information to the second image processing apparatus in response to a request from the second image processing apparatus The second image processing device requests the first image processing device to transmit the management information or the setting information when receiving a request from the computer. The image processing system according to claim 1, further comprising 6 transmission request means.

  The invention according to claim 11 is an information setting means for setting the setting information used for processing management information and image data from one or more computers, and the management information in response to a request from the computer. And a first information transmission means for transmitting the setting information or any of these to the requested computer, and an image processing means for processing image data sent from the computer according to the set setting information. And an image processing apparatus having processing means for processing the image data from the computer in accordance with the set setting information.

  The invention according to claim 12 of the present application is the image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the image processing means of the processing apparatus prints image data sent from the computer.

  In the invention according to claim 13 of the present application, the second transmission requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when predetermined. The image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a request unit.

  The invention according to claim 14 is a fourth transmission requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when determined in advance. The image processing apparatus according to claim 11, further comprising a request unit, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer.

  The invention according to claim 15 includes a computer, management information attached thereto, one or more image processing devices that process image data according to setting information, and one device that is communicably connected to the image processing device. In the image processing system having the above computer, in the image processing apparatus, the management information and the setting information are set, and the management information and the setting information or these are set according to a request from the computer. A step of transmitting either to the requested computer, a step of processing image data sent from the computer according to the set setting information, and the setting of the image data from the computer Executing the processing according to the information to the computer of the image processing apparatus In the computer, a step of requesting the image processing apparatus to transmit the management information and the setting information or one of these, using the management information, and returned from the image processing apparatus in response to the request. A program for generating image data to be processed by the image processing apparatus using the setting information and causing the computer to execute the step of transmitting the generated image data to the image processing apparatus.

  In the invention according to claim 16 of the present invention, the setting information used for processing of management information and image data is set from one or more computers, and the management information and the Sending the setting information or any of these to the requested computer, processing the image data sent from the computer according to the set setting information, and receiving the image data from the computer And a processing step for processing in accordance with the set information set.

  According to the first aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide an image processing system that notifies the computer connected to the network of the setting information of the image processing apparatus.

  According to the second aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect obtained by the first aspect of the present invention, an image processing system suitable for printing via a network can be provided.

  According to the invention according to claim 3 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention according to claim 1 or 2, when predetermined, the management information used for the management of the image processing apparatus and An image processing system for setting setting information used for the processing can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 4 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 1 or 2, when the management information and the setting information change, the changed information is set in the image processing apparatus. An image processing system can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 5 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 1 or 2, image processing for setting management information and setting information for the image processing apparatus each time image processing is performed Can provide a system.

  According to the invention of claim 6 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 1 or 2, an image processing system for setting management information and setting information when determined in advance by a computer Can provide.

  According to the seventh aspect of the present invention, in addition to the effect obtained by the present invention according to the first or second aspect, an image for setting management information and setting information when determined in advance by the image processing apparatus. A processing system can be provided.

  According to the invention according to claim 8 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention according to claim 1 or 2, both the computer and the image processing apparatus perform image processing in which management information and setting information are set. Can provide a system.

  According to the invention of claim 9 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 1 or 2, image processing for setting the same management information and setting information from the image processing apparatus to a computer having the same identifier Can provide a system.

  According to the invention of claim 10 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 1 or 2, when the resource capacity of the image processing apparatus is insufficient, the management information and An image processing system capable of storing setting information can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 11 of the present application, it is possible to provide an image processing apparatus that notifies the computer connected to the network of the setting information of the image processing apparatus.

  According to the invention of claim 12 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 11, an image processing apparatus suitable for printing via a network can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 13 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 11 or 12, when the information is determined in advance, the management information used for the management and An image processing apparatus for setting setting information used for the processing can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 14 of the present application, in addition to the effect obtained by the invention of claim 11 or 12, an image for setting management information and setting information when determined in advance by the image processing apparatus. A processing device can be provided.

  According to the invention of claim 15 of the present application, it is possible to provide a program for notifying the computer connected to the network of the setting information of the image processing apparatus.

  According to the sixteenth aspect of the present invention, it is possible to provide a program for notifying the computer of setting information of the image processing apparatus from the image processing apparatus connected to the network.

It is a figure which illustrates the structure of the 1st network system with which this embodiment is applied. FIG. 2 is a diagram showing management information and setting information stored in each printer apparatus 3 shown in FIG. 1. FIG. 3 is a diagram showing image data (job data) transmitted from the computer 2 to the printer apparatus and printed out. FIG. 4 is a first flowchart illustrating processing in which the printer apparatus updates management information and setting information when management information and setting information can be added to the job data illustrated in FIG. 3. When the device driver of the printer device 3 is installed, the computer searches for a printer device corresponding to the installed device driver, and obtains setting information from the printer device found as a result of the search (S14). FIG. In the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1, a second flowchart showing a third operation (S18) for setting setting information in the printer apparatus 3 at a predetermined timing using the job data shown in FIG. It is. It is a figure which shows the job data used in 4th operation | movement of the 1st network system 1 shown in FIG. It is a 3rd flowchart which shows the operation | movement (S20) for setting setting information to the printer apparatus from the computer 2 when decided beforehand. FIG. 10 is a second communication sequence diagram illustrating an operation (S22) in which the printer device illustrated in FIG. 1 requests the computer 2 to update the setting information and the computer transmits the setting information to the printer device in response thereto. 10 is a fourth flowchart showing the operation (S26) of the computer 2 that is requested to transmit the setting information by the processing of S222 and S224 shown in FIG. 10 is a fifth flowchart showing the operation (S28) of the computer 2 that is requested to transmit the setting information by the processing of S222 and S224 shown in FIG. FIG. 12 shows a third communication sequence showing an operation (S32) of transmitting management information and setting information common to the ID from the printer apparatus to one or more computers 2 to which a common identifier (ID) is attached. FIG. It is a figure which illustrates the structure of the 2nd network system with which this embodiment is applied. It is a figure which shows the management information and setting information of a printer apparatus and an information management printer apparatus which are memorize | stored in the information management printer apparatus shown in FIG. FIG. 14 is a fourth communication sequence diagram showing an operation (S36) of the second network system 4 shown in FIG.

[Background to the embodiment of the present application]
Before the description of the embodiment of the present application, first, the background of the embodiment of the present application will be described in order to help understanding thereof.
Generally, when a network device such as a printer device is connected to a network, it is necessary to perform network settings for the network device.
For example, Patent Document 1 discloses a method for acquiring and setting information to be set in a network device from a server by connecting the network device to a network via an adapter.

On the other hand, when using a network device in a network, it is necessary to set network information of the network device on the computer side that is connected to the network and uses the network device.
In order to satisfy this need, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, when replacing a computer or newly establishing a computer, the network information for using the network device connected to the network is replaced or newly established. It is necessary to set network information of the network device.

In the embodiment of the present invention, information for using a network device such as a printer device connected to the network and information of a user who uses the network device are stored in a printer from a computer connected to the network. In addition, when the computer is replaced or newly installed, the information is set in the computer.
By configuring in this way, the user can use the network device from the computer with the same settings as before the replacement or new installation, without setting the user to use the network device manually. Will be able to.
It should be noted that information set to specify the processing contents of the network device, network information and information necessary for using the network device, whether to perform single-sided printing or double-sided printing, and multiple information on one sheet Information indicating functions used in the network device such as whether to print an image (hereinafter collectively referred to as “setting information”) is stored in the network device when the network device is used. .
The storage location of the setting information may be each network device, or may be a network device that has more resources such as memory among a plurality of printers. The setting information is stored and managed for each network device that uses the setting information.

When storing the setting information, management information such as an identifier (ID) for managing the setting information is generated and stored in the network device.
As this management information, for example, the user ID and password of a computer user are used.
In addition, for example, management information and setting information may be sent from the computer to the network device at the timing when software (device driver) necessary for using the network device is installed in the computer.

[Description of Embodiment of the Present Application]
Hereinafter, embodiments of the present application will be described.

[First network system 1]
FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a first network system 1 to which the embodiment of the present application is applied.
As shown in FIG. 1, the network system 1 uses computers 2-1 to 2-n (n ≧ 1; n is not always the same number) and image data sent from the computer 2. Printer apparatuses 3-1 to 3-n that perform print output are configured to be communicable with each other via a network 120.
In the network system 1, the processing data stored in the printer device 3 is replaced or set in the newly installed computer 2 by these components, and the printer device 3 can be used by the network system 1.

When any of a plurality of possible components such as the computers 2-1 to 2-n is indicated without being specified, the computer 2 may be simply abbreviated.
In addition, for the sake of concreteness and clarification of the description, in the following description, the computer 2 and the printer device 3 are connected to the network system 1, and image data from the computer 2 is printed out by the printer device 3. The case is a specific example, but the data processed by the printer device 3 is not limited to image data, and may be other types of data such as text data. Another type of device such as a data server may be used.
In the network system 1, the computer 2 and the printer device 3 that can be the subject of information processing and information communication are collectively referred to as nodes.

[Hardware configuration]
As shown in FIG. 1, nodes constituting the network system 1 are input / output including a CPU 100, a main body 100 including a memory 104 including a ROM and a RAM, and peripheral circuits thereof, a display device, a keyboard, a mouse, and the like. Device 106, interface (IF) 110 for transmitting / receiving information between network 120 and main body 100, and storage device for writing and reading data to / from storage medium 114 such as HD, CD, DVD, FD, and nonvolatile memory 112 and, for example, a function implementing unit 116 such as an image forming apparatus used for print output in the printer 3.
That is, each node constituting the network system 1 has a component for realizing each function, and has a component as a general computer that can communicate with other nodes (the same applies hereinafter). .

[Information and data used in the network system 1]
FIG. 2 is a diagram showing management information and setting information stored in each of the printer apparatuses 3 shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing image data (job data) transmitted from the computer 2 to the printer device 3 and printed out.
As shown in FIG. 2, the management information stored in each memory 104 (FIG. 1) of the printer apparatus 3 and used for managing the setting information is associated with, for example, the user ID of the computer 2 and a password, respectively. Included.
The setting information stored in each printer device 3 is associated with each management information.

The setting information is information for using the function of the printer device 3 in the computer 2 when a device driver related to the printer device 3 is installed in the computer 2, for example.
This setting information includes device setting information and user information, and the user information includes, for example, the ID and password of the user of the computer 2.
The device setting information is information relating to the setting of the printer apparatus 3 corresponding to the user of the computer 2, and information indicating network information, information for using the printer apparatus 3, and functions of the printer apparatus 3. For example, the network address (IP address) and port name of the printer apparatus 3 are included.
Also, as shown in FIG. 3, the job data sent from the computer 2 to the printer apparatus 3 includes management information and setting information shown in FIG. 2 in addition to print job data designating image data and its output format. Can be added.
That is, the printer apparatus 3 can store the setting information shown in FIG. 2 based on the setting information included in the job data from the computer 2 shown in FIG.

[First operation]
Hereinafter, the first operation (S10) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
FIG. 4 is a first flowchart showing a process (S10) in which the printer apparatus 3 updates the management information and the setting information when the management information and the setting information can be added to the job data shown in FIG. is there.
Each process described below with reference to the flowchart and the communication sequence diagram can be realized by software processing by a computer, by dedicated hardware, or by general-purpose hardware.
In the following description, each processing described below is performed by assigning these hardware resources (FIG. 1) by software (not shown) running on an OS running on the computer 2 and the printer apparatus 3. It is realized by using.
When the computer 2 sets the setting information in the printer device 3 or updates the setting information of the printer device 3, the computer 2 includes the management information and the setting information in the job data as shown in FIG. Send.

As shown in FIG. 4, in step 100 (S100), the printer apparatus 3 determines whether or not setting information is added to the job data received from the computer 2 (the setting information is updated).
If such information has been added, the printer apparatus 3 proceeds to the process of S102, and otherwise proceeds to the process of S116.

In step 102 (S102), the printer apparatus 3 reads setting information from the job data.
In step 104 (S104), the printer apparatus 3 determines whether or not management information is added to the job data.
When the management information is added, the printer apparatus 3 proceeds to the process of S106, and otherwise proceeds to the process of S116.
In step 106 (S106), the printer apparatus 3 reads the management information added to the job data.

In step 108 (S108), the printer apparatus 3 determines whether or not the same user ID as the management information user ID read in the process of S106 is included in the management information stored in the printer apparatus 3. Judging.
When the user ID is included, the process proceeds to S110. Otherwise, the process proceeds to S114.
In step 110 (S110), the printer 3 includes the password (PW) in the management information read in the process of S106, and the user's PW read in the process of S106 and read in S108. It is determined whether or not the PW corresponding to the same user ID in the management information stored in the printer apparatus 3 matches.
If the password of the management information is included and matches, the printer apparatus 3 proceeds to the process of S112, otherwise proceeds to the process of S116.

In step 112 (S112), the printer apparatus 3 overwrites the newly received setting information with the setting information stored so far, and updates the setting information.
In step 114 (S114), the printer apparatus 3 newly registers the setting information read in S102 and the management information read in S106.

In step 116 (S116), the printer apparatus 3 determines whether or not valid print job data is included in the job data.
If valid print job data is included, the printer apparatus 3 proceeds to the process of S118, and otherwise the process is terminated.
In step 118 (S118), the printer device 3 prints out the print job data using the function implementation unit 116 (FIG. 1).
For setting management information and setting information from the computer 2 to the printer apparatus 3, signals defined for setting management information and setting information are used instead of the job data shown in FIG. 3 (FIG. 7). (The same applies hereinafter).
Here, in the first operation described above, the printer apparatus 3 overwrites the setting information on the basis of the job data from the computer 2 or newly registers it. You may comprise so that management information and setting information may be memorize | stored.
In this case, the management information and setting information stored in the printer device 3 may be set so as not to be overwritten by job data from the computer 2 by an operation of the administrator or the like.

[Second operation]
Hereinafter, the second operation (S14) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
FIG. 5 shows that when the device driver of the printer apparatus 3 is installed, the computer 2 searches for the printer apparatus 3 corresponding to the installed device driver, and acquires setting information from the printer apparatus 3 found as a result of the search. It is a 1st communication sequence diagram which shows operation | movement (S14).
As shown in FIG. 5, in step 140 (S140), a device driver for a certain type of printer device 3 is installed in the computer 2 in accordance with the replacement or new installation.
In steps 142 and 144 (S142 and S144), the computer 2 searches each of the printer apparatuses 3 in order to search whether or not the network apparatus 1 has a type of printer apparatus 3 that matches the installed device driver. On the other hand, model information and management information indicating the type are requested.

In steps 146 and 148 (S146 and S148), the printer apparatus 3 requests model information and management information set in advance via the input / output device 106 or the storage device 112 in response to a request from the computer 2. Send to the original computer 2.
In step 150 (S150), the computer 2 collates the model information returned from the printer apparatus 3 with the model information suitable for the installed device driver, and the model indicated by the model information returned from the printer apparatus 3 Then, it is determined whether the model that matches the installed device driver matches.
If the model indicated by the model information matches the model that matches the installed device driver, and the management information returned from the printer apparatus 3 includes an ID corresponding to the user of the computer 2, step 152 is executed. , 154 (S152, S154), the computer 2 returns the management information of the corresponding ID to the printer device 3 of a model compatible with the device driver and requests transmission of the setting information.

In steps 156 and 158 (S156 and S158), the printer apparatus 3 reads the setting information corresponding to the transmission request of the computer 2 from its own storage device, and transmits the read setting information to the computer 2.
In step 160 (S160), the computer 2 sets the setting information received from the printer device 3 in the installed device driver.
In step 162 (S162), the computer 2 creates an icon indicating the printer apparatus 3 that can be used by the process of S160, and displays the icon on the input / output device 106 or the like.
In step 164 (S164), the computer 2 puts the printer device 3 in which the device driver is installed into a usable state.
The second operation described here can be executed regardless of whether or not a device driver is installed when the computer 2 is replaced or newly installed.

[Third operation]
Hereinafter, the third operation (S18) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
In the first operation described above, the computer 2 transmits the setting information to the printer apparatus 3 every time printing processing is performed. However, the computer 2 transmits the setting information to the printer apparatus 3 at a predetermined timing. You may comprise.
FIG. 6 shows a third operation (S18) for setting setting information in the printer apparatus 3 at a predetermined timing using the job data shown in FIG. 3 in the first network system 1 shown in FIG. It is a 2nd flowchart.
In step 180 (S180), the computer 2 creates print job data.

In step 182 (S 182), the computer 2 determines whether it is time to transmit setting information to a certain printer 3.
This timing is, for example, a case where the printer apparatus 3 performs print output at the time of the first printing of the day or immediately after the setting information to be set in the printer apparatus 3 is changed.
When the timing has come, the computer 2 proceeds to the process of S184, otherwise proceeds to the process of S188 and transmits only the print job data.
In step 184 (S 184), the computer 2 reads management information and setting information to be stored in the printer device 3 that is to be updated with setting information.

In step 186 (S186), the computer 2 adds the management information and setting information read in S182 to the print job data.
In step 188 (S188), the computer 2 transmits the job data generated by adding the management information and the setting information to the print job data in S186 to the printer apparatus 3.
The printer device 3 that has received this job data performs the operation (S10) shown in FIG. 4 based on the setting information included in the job data received from the computer 2, and stores the setting information stored in the printer device 3. Update.

The operation for the computer 2 to receive the management information and the setting information from the printer device 3 with the replacement / new installation of the computer 2 is the same as the operation (S14) shown in FIG.
In the operation described here, if it is not desired to cause the printer apparatus 3 to perform print output, empty print job data as described later with reference to FIG. 7 may be included (the same applies hereinafter).

[Fourth operation]
Hereinafter, the fourth operation (S20) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
In the first operation and the third operation described above, the computer 2 transmits the setting information to the printer device 3 during the printing process, but the computer 2 sets the information at a timing unrelated to printing. Information may be transmitted to the printer device 3.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing job data used in the fourth operation of the first network system 1 shown in FIG.
FIG. 8 is a third flowchart showing an operation (S20) for setting the setting information from the computer 2 to the printer device 3 at a predetermined time.
As shown in FIG. 8, when a predetermined timing (a predetermined time or a timing not related to the print output by the printer 3 such as when the computer 2 is started) comes, in step 200 (S200). The computer 2 reads management information and setting information from a storage device such as its own memory.

In step 202 (S202), it is determined whether or not the system of the computer 2 is to be terminated. In this case, the process proceeds to S204.
In step 204 (S204), it is determined whether or not it is a predetermined timing. If so, the process proceeds to S206, otherwise the process returns to S202.

In step 206 (S206), the computer 2 generates job data by adding empty print job data to the management information and setting information read in S200, as shown in FIG.
In step 208 (S208), the computer 2 transmits the job data generated in the process of S206 to the printer apparatus 3 whose setting information is to be updated.

[Fifth operation]
Hereinafter, the fifth operation (S22 to S28) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
FIG. 9 shows a second operation in which the printer 2 shown in FIG. 1 requests the computer 2 to update the setting information, and the computer 2 transmits the setting information to the printer 3 in response thereto (S22). It is a communication sequence diagram.
FIGS. 10 and 11 are fourth and fifth flowcharts showing the operation (S26, S28) of the computer 2 requested to transmit the setting information by the processing of S222 and S224 shown in FIG.

As shown in FIG. 9, in step 220 (S220), a predetermined event such as activation of the printer 3 occurs.
In steps 222 and 224 (S222 and S224), the printer apparatus 3 requests the computer 2 to transmit setting information.
In step 226 (S226), the printer apparatus 3 generates job data to which management information and setting information are added, as shown in FIGS.

In steps 230 and 232 (S230 and S232), the computer 2 transmits the job data generated in the process of S226 to the printer apparatus 3.
In steps 234 and 236 (S234 and S236), the printer apparatus 3 receives the job data transmitted from the printer apparatus 3 and acquires and stores management information and setting information.

As shown in FIG. 10, the operation (S26) of the computer 2 requested to transmit the setting information is realized by replacing the process of S182 shown in FIG. 6 with S260.
When there is a request for setting information transmission from the printer 3, the computer 2 starts the process of S26 when performing the printing process thereafter.
As shown in FIG. 10, when the processing of S180 is completed, in step 260 (S260), the computer 2 determines whether or not the printer device 3 has requested transmission of setting information.
When there is a transmission request, the computer 2 proceeds to the process of S186, and otherwise, proceeds to the process of S188.

Instead of the operation (S26) of the computer 2 shown in FIG. 10, the computer 2 may be caused to perform the operation (S28) shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 11, the operation of the computer 2 requested to transmit the setting information (S28) is realized by replacing the process of S204 shown in FIG. 8 with S280.
When there is a request for setting information transmission from the printer 3, the computer 2 immediately executes the process of S28 regardless of the printing process.
As shown in FIG. 11, when the process of S202 is completed, in step 280 (S280), the computer 2 determines whether or not there is a request for transmission of setting information from the printer device 3.
If there is a request for transmission, the computer 2 proceeds to the process of S206, and otherwise returns to the process of S202.
The third operation shown in FIG. 6 and the fifth operation shown here are combined. In some cases, the computer 2 sets setting information for the printer device 3, and in other cases, the printer device 3 receives the setting information. The computer 2 may set the setting information in the printer device 3 in response to a request.
For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the printer device 3 requests information from the computer 2 when the printer device 3 is activated, the computer 2 transmits setting information to the printer device 3, and thereafter, FIG. As shown, the computer 2 may transmit the setting information to the printer device 3 at a predetermined timing.

[Sixth operation]
Hereinafter, the sixth operation (S32) of the first network system 1 shown in FIG. 1 will be described.
FIG. 12 shows a third communication showing an operation (S32) of transmitting management information and setting information common to the ID from the printer device 3 to one or more computers 2 to which a common identifier (ID) is attached. It is a sequence diagram.
As shown in FIG. 12, in this operation (S32), an ID (common ID; not shown) common to one or more computers 2 is further set in management information and setting information preset in the printer apparatus 3. This is realized by replacing the processes of S148, S150, S152, S154, and S156 of the operation (S14) shown in FIG. 5 with the processes of S320, S322, S324, S326, and S328.

In step 320 (S320), the printer apparatus 3 transmits the preset model information and common ID to the requesting computer 2.
In step 322 (S322), the computer 2 collates the model information returned from the printer device 3 with the model information suitable for the installed device driver, and the model indicated by the model information returned from the printer device 3 Then, it is determined whether the model that matches the installed device driver matches.
If the model indicated by the model information matches the model compatible with the installed device driver, in steps 324 and 326 (S324 and S326), the computer 2 changes the printer device 3 to a model compatible with the device driver. On the other hand, the setting information is requested by transmitting the common ID.
In steps 328 and 158 (S328 and S158), the printer device 3 reads the setting information from its own storage device or the like based on the common ID attached to the request, and transmits it to the requesting computer 2.
In the sixth operation described here, the setting information of the printer device 3 may not be rewritten from the computer 2.

[Second network system 2]
Hereinafter, it is a figure which illustrates the structure of the 2nd network system 4 with which this embodiment is applied.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of the second network system 4 to which the embodiment of the present application is applied.
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing management information and setting information of the printer device 3 and the information management printer device 5 stored in the information management printer device 5 shown in FIG.
As shown in FIG. 13, the network system 4 has a configuration similar to that of the other printer device 3, and has a larger storage capacity (more resources) such as the memory 104 and the storage device 112 than the other printer device 3. The management printer device 5 is configured to be connected to the network 120 so as to be able to communicate with other nodes.
In the second network system 4, the information management printer device 5 itself and the management information and setting information of the printer device 3 (see also FIG. 2) are stored and managed as shown in FIG. In FIG. 4, the process is performed for each printer device 3 and information management printer device 5.
In this case, the printer device 3 stores an identifier of information transmitted to and stored in the information management printer device 5 and an identifier of the information management printer device 5.
When the printer device 3 receives the setting information from the computer 2, there is not enough storage resources, and the printer device 3 transmits the setting information to the information management printer device 5.
As shown in FIG. 14, the information management printer device 5 stores the received setting information in association with information relating to the printer device 3 that is the transmission source of the setting information.

FIG. 15 is a fourth communication sequence diagram showing an operation (S36) of the second network system 4 shown in FIG.
In steps 360 and 362 (S360 and S362), the printer apparatus 3 receives the search signal from the computer 2 and requests management information by transmitting model information to the information management printer apparatus 5.

In steps 364 and 366 (S364 and S366), the information management printer device 5 searches for management information corresponding to the received model information and transmits the management information to the printer device 3.
When the processing of S154 is completed, in steps 368 and 370 (S368 and S370), the printer device 3 requests the information management printer device 5 to transmit the setting information by transmitting the received management information.
In steps 372 and 374 (S372 and S374), the information management printer apparatus 5 searches for setting information corresponding to the received management information and transmits the setting information to the printer apparatus 3.

1,5 ... Network system,
120 ... network,
2 ... computer,
3 ... Printer device,
100 ... body,
102... Network
104 ... memory,
106: I / O device,
108 ... function realization device,
110 ... IF,
112... Storage device,
114... Storage medium,

Claims (16)

One or more image processing apparatuses to which management information is attached and which process image data according to the setting information;
One or more computers communicably connected to the image processing apparatus,
The image processing apparatus includes:
Information setting means for setting the management information and the setting information;
In response to a request from the computer, first information transmission means for transmitting the management information and the setting information or any of these to the requested computer;
Processing means for processing the image data from the computer according to the set setting information;
The computer
First transmission request means for requesting the image processing apparatus to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of these, using the management information;
Generation / transmission for generating image data to be processed by the image processing apparatus using the setting information returned from the image processing apparatus in response to the request, and transmitting the generated image data to the image processing apparatus An image processing system comprising: The generation / transmission unit of the computer generates image data to be printed by the image processing apparatus, transmits the image data to the image processing apparatus,
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the processing unit of the image processing apparatus prints image data sent from the computer. The image processing apparatus includes:
A second transmission requesting unit for requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when determined in advance;
The computer
The information processing apparatus according to claim 1, further comprising: a second information transmission unit configured to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus. Image processing system. The computer
A third information transmitting means for transmitting at least the changed management information and / or setting information or any of them to the image processing apparatus when the management information and / or the setting information is changed; Have
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer. The generation / transmission means of the computer attaches the management information and the setting information or any of them to the generated image data and transmits it to the image processing apparatus,
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer. The generation / transmission unit of the computer attaches the management information and the setting information to the generated image data and transmits the generated image data to the image processing apparatus when determined in advance.
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer. The image processing apparatus includes:
A third transmission requesting means for requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when determined in advance;
The generation / transmission unit of the computer attaches the management information and the setting information or any one of them to the generated image data using the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing apparatus transmits the image processing apparatus to the image processing apparatus. The image processing apparatus includes:
A fourth transmission request means for requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when determined in advance;
The computer
A fourth information transmitting means for transmitting the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information in response to a request from the image processing apparatus;
And a fifth information transmission means for transmitting the management information and the setting information to the image processing apparatus when not receiving the request from the image processing apparatus,
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus receives the setting of the management information and the setting information transmitted from the computer. In the information setting unit of the image processing apparatus, the management information and the setting information are set in advance,
The management information is
Including the identifier
The computer
A fifth transmission request means for requesting the image processing apparatus to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them when determined in advance using the identifier;
In response to a request from the computer, the first information transmission unit of the image processing apparatus uses the identifier to transmit the management information and the setting information, or a computer that has requested transmission of any of these, The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the management information and the setting information corresponding to the identifier, or any one of them is transmitted. The first image processing device of the one or more image processing devices is
Storage means for storing the management information and the setting information related to a second image processing device of the one or more image processing devices;
A sixth information transmitting means for transmitting the stored management information or setting information to the second image processing apparatus in response to a request from the second image processing apparatus;
The second image processing apparatus includes:
3. A sixth transmission requesting unit that requests the first image processing apparatus to transmit the management information or the setting information when receiving a request from the computer. 4. Image processing system. Information setting means for setting the setting information used for processing management information and image data from one or more computers;
In response to a request from the computer, first information transmission means for transmitting the management information and the setting information or any of these to the requested computer;
An image processing apparatus comprising: processing means for processing the image data from the computer in accordance with the set setting information. The image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the processing unit of the image processing apparatus prints image data sent from the computer. The second transmission request means for requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information at a predetermined time. 12. The image processing apparatus according to 12. A fourth transmission request means for requesting the computer to transmit the management information and the setting information or any one of them using the management information when determined in advance;
The information setting means of the image processing apparatus includes the management information and the setting information sent from the computer in response to the request, or the management information and the setting information sent from the computer without the request. The image processing apparatus according to claim 11, wherein the image processing apparatus receives the setting of An image processing system that includes a computer, includes one or more image processing apparatuses that are attached with management information and that process image data according to setting information, and one or more computers that are communicably connected to the image processing apparatus In
In the image processing apparatus,
The management information and the setting information are set;
In response to a request from the computer, transmitting the management information and the setting information or any of these to the requested computer;
Processing the image data from the computer according to the set setting information, and causing the computer of the image processing apparatus to execute,
In the computer,
Requesting the image processing apparatus to transmit the management information and the setting information or any of these using the management information;
Using the setting information returned from the image processing apparatus in response to the request, generating image data to be processed by the image processing apparatus, and transmitting the generated image data to the image processing apparatus. A program to be executed by the computer. The setting information used for processing management information and image data is set from one or more computers;
In response to a request from the computer, transmitting the management information and the setting information or any of these to the requested computer;
Processing image data sent from the computer according to the set setting information;
A program for causing a computer of an image processing apparatus to execute a processing step of processing the image data from the computer according to the set setting information.

Images