JP2012004709A - Information sharing system and information holding device - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide the technology capable of sharing information appropriately even when a part of the plurality of devices is powered off in the information sharing system which shares information with each other among a plurality of the devices, without being managed by a server.SOLUTION: An information sharing system which shares information with each other among a plurality of information holding devices comprises MFP 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d. Transmission means of the MFP 10a transmits the latest information on the data concerning shared information to the MFP 10b, 10c and 10d by e-mail when the MFP 10a changes from a power-on state to a power-off state under the condition that the MFP 10b, 10c and 10d are powered off. Reception means of the MFP 10c receives the latest information on the data concerning the shared information by the e-mail after the MFP 10c changes from the power-off state to the power-on state.

Description

  The present invention relates to an information sharing system and related technology.

  There is a technique capable of sharing information among a plurality of devices without management by a server. For example, in the technique described in Patent Document 1, when operation data related to one image forming apparatus is updated in a plurality of image forming apparatuses, the updated contents are managed data (operations) in other image forming apparatuses. The technology reflected in the data that manages the data is shown. More specifically, when the operation data related to one image forming apparatus is updated, the one image forming apparatus notifies the other image forming apparatus about the update of the operation data, and the other image forming apparatus Updates the management data based on the operation data.

  According to this, another image forming apparatus can use the operation data related to the one image forming apparatus by reflecting the updated content of the operation data related to the one image forming apparatus in the management data. is there. That is, the plurality of image forming apparatuses can share information (operation data) among the plurality of image forming apparatuses without being managed by a server.

Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-300361

  However, the technique described in Patent Document 1 is a technique based on the premise that a plurality of devices (image forming apparatuses) are in a power-on state. (Operation data) may not be shared properly. For example, when shared information related to one device is updated and all other devices are in a power-off state, it is difficult for the one device to make a notification to another device.

  Accordingly, an object of the present invention is to provide an information sharing system that shares information among a plurality of devices without management by a server, even when some of the plurality of devices are in a power-off state. It is to provide a technology capable of appropriately sharing information.

  In order to solve the above-mentioned problem, the invention of claim 1 is an information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices, wherein the one information holding device and the one information holding device via a network. Another information holding device connected to the device, wherein the one information holding device stores a first storage means for storing first data relating to shared information, and the latest information of the first data. Transmitting means for transmitting to the other information holding device, wherein the other information holding device stores second data relating to the shared information, and the one information holding device. Receiving means for receiving the latest information from the updating means, and updating means for updating the second data based on the latest information, wherein the transmitting means includes the one piece of information among the plurality of information holding devices. All information holding devices other than the holding device are turned on. When the one information holding device makes a transition from a power-on state to a power-off state, the latest information is transmitted by e-mail to the other information holding device, and the receiving means The latest information is received by the e-mail after the other information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state.

  According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the information sharing system according to the first aspect of the invention, the receiving means is one of the one or more information holding devices other than the other information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices. If the other information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information is received by the e-mail.

  According to a third aspect of the present invention, in the information sharing system according to the first or second aspect of the present invention, when the updating means receives a plurality of e-mails by the receiving means, The second data is updated based on the latest information received by the latest electronic mail.

  According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, there is provided the information sharing system according to any one of the first to third aspects, wherein the information holding device is an information holding device other than the other information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices. When the second information holding device that is an information holding device other than the first information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices is in a power-on state, the information holding device is the first information holding device. After the transition from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information on the shared information is received from the second information holding device by data communication.

  According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information sharing system according to the fourth aspect of the invention, the first information holding device includes a case where two or more information holding devices other than the first information holding device are in a power-on state. After the first information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information related to the shared information from the information holding device having the longest power-on duration among the two or more information holding devices. Information is received by data communication.

  The invention of claim 6 is an information holding device capable of performing network communication with other information holding devices in an information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices. Storage means for storing the data related to the data, and transmission means for transmitting the latest information of the data to the other information holding device, wherein the transmitting means is information other than the own device among the plurality of information holding devices. When all the holding devices are in a power-off state, when the information holding device transitions from a power-on state to a power-off state, the latest information is transmitted to the other information holding devices by e-mail. It is characterized by.

  The invention of claim 7 is an information holding device capable of performing network communication with other information holding devices in an information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices. Storing means for storing the first data according to the receiving means; receiving means for receiving the latest information of the second data relating to the shared information from the other information holding device; and the first data based on the latest information. Updating means for updating the information, and the receiving means uses an e-mail sent from the other information holding device for the latest information after the information holding device transitions from a power-off state to a power-on state. And receiving.

  An eighth aspect of the present invention is the information holding device according to the seventh aspect of the invention, wherein the receiving means turns off one or more information holding devices other than the own device among the plurality of information holding devices. When the information holding device is in a state, the latest information of the second data is received by the e-mail after the information holding device transits from a power-off state to a power-on state.

  According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, in the information holding device according to the seventh or eighth aspect of the invention, when the updating means receives a plurality of e-mails by the receiving means, The first data is updated based on the latest information received by the latest electronic mail.

  According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, in the information holding device according to any one of the seventh to ninth aspects, the receiving means holds the information when the other information holding device is in a power-on state. After the device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, previous latest information is received by data communication from the other information holding device.

  An eleventh aspect of the invention is the information holding device according to the tenth aspect of the invention, wherein the receiving means is configured to receive the second information when two or more information holding devices among the plurality of information holding devices are in a power-on state. Among the above information holding devices, the latest information is received by data communication from the information holding device with the longest power-on duration.

  According to the first to fifth aspects of the present invention, when all of the information holding devices other than the own device among the plurality of information holding devices are in the power-off state, the one information holding device is changed from the power-on state. When transitioning to the power-off state, the latest information of the first data is transmitted from one information holding device to the other information holding device by e-mail. Then, after the other information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information of the first data is received by the e-mail. Therefore, even if the other information holding device is in a power-off state, the updated content of the first data can be reflected in the second data.

  In particular, according to the third aspect of the present invention, the update means can update the second data by performing one update operation based on the latest electronic mail.

  In particular, according to the fifth aspect of the present invention, the first information holding device receives the latest information related to the shared information from the information holding device having the longest power-on duration among two or more information holding devices. Since it is received by communication, it is possible to reflect the latest information more accurately.

  According to the invention described in claim 6, when all the information holding devices other than the own device among the plurality of information holding devices are in the power-off state, the information holding device is changed from the power-on state to the power-off state. At the time of transition, the latest data information is transmitted from the information holding device to another information holding device by electronic mail. Therefore, even if the other information holding device is in a power-off state, the updated contents of the data can be reflected in the other information holding device.

  Further, according to the invention described in claims 7 to 11, the latest information of the second data transmitted from another information holding device after the information holding device transits from the power-off state to the power-on state. Received by email. Therefore, it is possible to reflect the updated content of the second data in the first data before the information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 9, the update means can update the first data by performing one update operation based on the latest electronic mail.

  In particular, according to the invention described in claim 11, the receiving means receives the latest information related to the shared information from the information holding device having the longest power-on duration among the two or more information holding devices by data communication. Therefore, it is possible to reflect the latest information more accurately.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a configuration of an information sharing system according to a first embodiment. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a functional configuration of the MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows an example of group data. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation in the MFP. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation in the MFP. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation in the MFP. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a relationship between a power state and time in each MFP. FIG. 3 is a conceptual diagram illustrating a relationship between a power state and time in each MFP. FIG. It is a figure which shows the example of description of an email.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

<1. First Embodiment>
<1-1. Outline of configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a configuration of an information sharing system 100 according to this embodiment. The information sharing system 100 includes a plurality of information holding devices 10 (here, four information holding devices 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d). The plurality of information holding devices 10 are managed as a device group belonging to the same group GP in the information sharing system 100, and share information among them. Here, it is assumed that the information holding device 10 is configured as an MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) 10.

  The MFPs 10 are connected to each other via a network NW, and can perform network communication (data communication). Here, the network NW is configured by a LAN, a WAN, the Internet, or the like. The connection form of each MFP 10 to the network NW may be a wired connection or a wireless connection.

  Here, it is assumed that the plurality of MFPs 10 have a similar configuration. Hereinafter, a configuration common to a plurality of MFPs 10 will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a functional block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the MFP 10. As shown in FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes a communication unit 4, a storage unit 5, a controller 9, and the like, and realizes various functions by operating these units in a complex manner.

  The communication unit 4 can perform network communication via the communication network NW. In this network communication, various protocols such as TCP / IP (Transmission Control Protocol / Internet Protocol) and FTP (File Transfer Protocol) are used. By using the network communication, the MFP 10 can communicate with a desired destination. It is possible to send and receive various data. The MFP 10 can also send and receive e-mails using the communication unit 4.

  The storage unit 5 includes a storage device such as a hard disk drive (HDD) and a nonvolatile memory. The storage unit 5 stores group data GD (described later) related to information shared between the MFPs 10 in the group GP (hereinafter also referred to as shared information).

  Specifically, the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10a stores group data GD1, and the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10b stores group data GD2. The storage unit 5 of the MFP 10c stores group data GD3, and the storage unit 5 of the MFP 10d stores group data GD4.

  As described above, the MFPs 10 (10a to 10d) in the group GP individually hold the group data GD (GD1 to GD4) in the respective storage units 5.

  Further, the storage unit 5 stores an e-mail address AD (not shown) of each MFP 10 in the group GP.

  The controller 9 is a control device that is built in the MFP 10 and controls the MFP 10 in an integrated manner. The controller 9 is configured as a computer system including a CPU and various semiconductor memories (such as a RAM and a ROM). The controller 9 implements various processing units by executing predetermined software programs (hereinafter also simply referred to as programs) stored in a ROM (for example, an EEPROM) in the CPU.

  Specifically, as illustrated in FIG. 2, the controller 9 includes a latest information transmission unit 91, a latest information reception unit 93, and a data update unit 95.

  The latest information transmission unit 91 is a processing unit that transmits the latest information of the group data (group data in the own device) GD related to the shared information to another MFP 10.

  The latest information receiving unit 93 is a processing unit that receives the latest information of the group data GD in another MFP 10 from the other MFP 10.

  The data update unit 95 is a processing unit that updates group data (group data in the own device) GD.

  Each of the plurality of MFPs 10a, 10b, 10c, and 10d has such a schematic configuration.

  Next, the group data GD will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating an example of the group data GD.

  Here, as shown in FIG. 3, the group data GD includes data related to the power source of the MFP 10 and data related to the hard disk.

  Specifically, the power-related data includes data indicating the power state of the MFP 10 and data indicating the transition time to the power-on state. Data indicating the transition time to the power-on state is stored only in the power-on state MFP 10a.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3, “ON” indicating the power-on state is stored in the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10a, and the power-off is stored in the data indicating the power states of the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d. “OFF” indicating the state is stored.

  Further, “2009/10/14/8: 30” indicating the transition time is stored in the data indicating the transition time to the power-on state of the MFP 10a.

  Further, the data relating to the hard disk includes data indicating the hard disk usage (GB) (gigabytes) for each user in the MFP 10.

  For example, as shown in FIG. 3, “1 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the usage amount of the hard disk of the user UA1 in the MFP 10a, and the data indicating the usage amount of the hard disk of the user UA2 in the MFP 10a is “ “0 (GB)” is stored. Further, “3 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA1 in the MFP 10b, and “25 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA2 in the MFP 10b. Has been. Further, “0.5 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA1 in the MFP 10c, and “1 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA2 in the MFP 10c. Is remembered. Further, “2.5 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA1 in the MFP 10d, and “15 (GB)” is stored in the data indicating the hard disk usage of the user UA2 in the MFP 10d. Is remembered.

  The above-mentioned data relating to the hard disk is used to restrict the use of hard disks in the group GP. More specifically, the data related to the hard disk is used for use restriction for each user.

  For example, in the group GP, it is assumed that the total value (upper limit value) of hard disks that can be used by the user UA1 is set to 40 (GB). At this time, the MFP 10 calculates the current usage amount of the user UA1 based on the group data GD and determines whether or not the usage can be performed. If the usage amount has reached the upper limit (40 (GB)), the MFP 10 restricts the use of the hard disk of the user UA1. On the other hand, if the usage amount has not reached the upper limit (40 (GB)), the MFP 10 permits the user UA1 to use the hard disk. For example, in FIG. 3, the total usage amount of the hard disk of the user UA1 is 7 (= 1 + 3 + 0.5 + 2.5) (GB), and the current usage amount of the user UA1 does not reach 40 (GB). The MFP 10 permits the user UA1 to use the hard disk.

  The data regarding the power source is used to determine various operations in the MFP 10 described below.

<1-2. Operation>
Hereinafter, the operation of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to FIGS.

  4 to 6 are flowcharts showing the operation of the MFP 10. Specifically, FIG. 4 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10 according to a change in the usage amount of the hard disk, and FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10 when transitioning from the power-on state to the power-off state. FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing the operation of the MFP 10 after transition from the power-off state to the power-on state.

  FIG. 7 is a conceptual diagram showing the relationship between the power state of the MFP 10 (10a to 10d) and time.

  In the first embodiment, the case where the power supply state transition as shown in FIG.

  Specifically, the MFP 10d changes from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T1, and the MFP 10c changes from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T2. Further, at time T3, the MFP 10b changes from the power-on state to the power-off state, and at time T4, the MFP 10a changes from the power-on state to the power-off state.

  At time T5, the MFP 10c changes from the power-off state to the power-on state, and at time T6, the MFP 10b changes from the power-off state to the power-on state. Further, at time T7, the MFP 10d changes from the power-off state to the power-on state, and at time T8, the MFP 10a changes from the power-off state to the power-on state.

  Note that before the time T1 and after the time T8, all the MFPs 10 are in the power-on state. Further, during the period from time T4 to time T5, all the MFPs 10 are in the power-off state.

<1-2-1. Operation associated with changes in hard disk usage>
First, the operation of the MFP 10 according to the change in the usage amount of the hard disk will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S11 of FIG. 4, when the usage amount of the hard disk of the MFP 10 itself (hereinafter also referred to as the own device) changes, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates the group data GD in the own device.

  For example, it is assumed that the usage amount of the hard disk of the user UA1 in the MFP 10a has changed from 1 (GB) to 1.5 (GB). At this time, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10a updates the data indicating the hard disk usage amount of the user UA1 in the group data GD1 from 1 (GB) to 1.5 (GB) (step S11).

  In step S12, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device determines whether there is a power-on state among other MFPs 10 other than the own device (hereinafter also referred to as other devices). If the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device determines that there is a power-on state among other devices, the process proceeds to step S13. Otherwise, the process ends.

  In step S13, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device transmits the latest information of the group data GD to the one of the other devices in the power-on state by the data communication DC1. Here, the data communication DC1 is executed by a data transmission method (for example, FTP communication) that is faster than electronic mail. The latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device transmits the group data GD itself as the latest information of the group data GD. At this time, the data update unit 95 of the other device that has received the latest information immediately updates the group data GD in the other device based on the latest information.

  For example, when the hard disk usage of the MFP 10a is updated during the period from time T1 to time T2 (see FIG. 7), the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10a updates the group data GD1 in the MFP 10a (step S11). ). Thereafter, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines whether there is any of the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d (other devices) in a power-on state (step S12). As shown in FIG. 7, the MFPs 10b and 10c are in the power-on state during the period from time T1 to time T2. Therefore, in step S12, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines that there is a power-on state among the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d, and the process proceeds to step S13. Then, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a transmits the group data GD1 to the MFPs 10b and 10c by the data communication DC1 (step S13). At this time, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10b immediately updates the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b based on the group data GD1, and the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the group data in the MFP 10c based on the group data GD1. Update GD3 immediately.

  In addition, when the hard disk usage of the MFP 10a is updated in the period from time T3 to time T4 (see FIG. 7), the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10a updates the group data GD1 in the MFP 10a (step S11). ). Thereafter, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines whether there is any of the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d (other devices) in a power-on state (step S12). As shown in FIG. 7, in the period from time T3 to time T4, all of MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d are in the power-off state. Therefore, in step S12, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines that there is no power-on state among the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d, and ends the process.

  As described above, when the usage amount of the hard disk of the own device changes, the MFP 10 updates the group data GD in the own device, and transmits the group data GD to the other device in the power-on state by the data communication DC1. .

<1-2-2. Operation during transition from power-on state to power-off state>
Next, the operation of the MFP 10 when the MFP 10 transitions from the power-on state to the power-off state will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the MFP 10 receives a transition instruction from the power-on state to the power-off state (for example, a transition instruction based on an operation input from the operator), the MFP 10 executes the process of the flowchart of FIG.

  First, when the own device receives an instruction to transition from the power-on state to the power-off state, in step S21 in FIG. 5, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates data indicating the power state of the group data GD in the own device. To do.

  In step S22, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device determines whether there is a power-on state among other devices. If the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device determines that there is a power-on state among other devices, the process proceeds to step S23, and otherwise, the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S23, the latest information transmitting unit 91 of the own device transmits the latest information of the group data GD to the one in the power-on state among the other devices through the data communication DC1. Here, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device transmits the group data GD itself as the latest information of the group data GD to the power-on state of the other devices through the data communication. At this time, the data update unit 95 of the other device that has received the latest information immediately updates the group data GD in the other device based on the latest information.

  In step S24, the latest information transmitting unit 91 of the own device transmits the latest information of the group data GD in the own device to the other device by e-mail ML.

  Specifically, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device converts the updated group data GD into a specific file format (for example, a text format) that can be recognized by another device. Thereafter, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device creates an e-mail ML for sending the specific file. Then, the latest information transmitting unit 91 of the own device transmits the e-mail ML to the e-mail address AD of the other device via the network NW. In this e-mail ML, for example, the latest information in a text document is described in the mail body. More specifically, as shown in FIG. 9, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device describes each data in the group data GD in the mail text in tab delimiters. In addition, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device describes the fact (for example, “latest information of group data”) in the title to clearly indicate that the electronic mail ML includes the latest information of the group data GD. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a description example of the electronic mail ML.

  In the following, a case where the MFP 10c accepts a transition instruction from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T2 (see FIG. 7) and a transition from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T4 (see FIG. 7). The case of receiving an instruction will be described in more detail.

  First, a case where the MFP 10c receives an instruction to transition from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T2 will be described.

  In step S21, the data updating unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10c in the group data GD3 from the power-on state (ON) to the power-off state (OFF).

  In step S22, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10c determines whether any of the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d (other devices) is in the power-on state. As shown in FIG. 7, at time T2, the MFPs 10a and 10b are in a power-on state. Therefore, in step S22, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10c determines that there is a power-on state (MFP 10a, 10b) among the MFPs 10a, 10b, 10d (other devices), and the process proceeds to step S23.

  In step S23, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10c transmits the group data GD3 to the MFPs 10a and 10b (other devices in the power-on state) by the data communication DC1 (step S23). At this time, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10a immediately updates the group data GD1 in the MFP 10a based on the group data GD3, and the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10b updates the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b based on the group data GD3. Update immediately.

  Next, a case where the MFP 10a receives an instruction to transition from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T4 will be described.

  In step S21, the data updating unit 95 of the MFP 10a updates the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10a in the group data GD1 from the power-on state (ON) to the power-off state (OFF).

  In step S22, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines whether there are any of the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d (other devices) in the power-on state. As shown in FIG. 7, at time T4, all of MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d are in a power-off state. Therefore, in step S22, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a determines that there is no power-on state among the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d (other devices), and the process proceeds to step S24.

  In step S24, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a transmits the latest information of the group data GD1 to the MFPs 10b, 10c, and 10d (other devices) by an electronic mail ML (ML1).

<1-2-2. Operation after transition from power-off state to power-on state>
Next, the operation of the MFP 10 after the MFP 10 transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When the MFP 10 receives a transition instruction from the power-off state to the power-on state, the MFP 10 executes the processing of the flowchart of FIG.

  First, in step S31 of FIG. 6, when the own device receives an instruction to transition from the power-off state to the power-on state, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates the group data GD in the own device.

  In step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the own device determines whether there is a power-on device among other devices. If the latest information receiving unit 93 of the own device determines that there is a power-on device among other devices, the process proceeds to step S35. Otherwise, the process proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, after the own device transits from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the own device receives the latest information of the group data GD transmitted from the other device by e-mail.

  In step S34, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates the group data GD in the own device based on the latest information received in step S33. However, when a plurality of e-mails are received in step S33, the data update unit 95 of the own machine, based on the latest information received by the latest e-mail among the plurality of e-mails, Update the group data GD.

  In step S35, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device has already been turned on among other devices, in other words, an MFP that has previously returned to the power-on state (hereinafter also referred to as a preceding return MFP). ), The latest information of the group data GD is transmitted by the data communication DC1. Here, it is assumed that the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device transmits the group data GD itself as the latest information of the group data GD. At this time, the data update unit 95 of the other device that has received the latest information immediately updates the group data GD in the other device based on the latest information.

  In step S36, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the own device receives the latest information of the group data GD in the preceding return MFP from the preceding return MFP by data communication DC1. However, when there are a plurality of preceding return MFPs, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the own device obtains the latest information of the group data GD in the most preceding return MFP from the “most preceding return MFP” among the preceding return MFPs. Receive. Here, the most advanced return MFP has the longest power-on continuation time among one or more advance return MFPs, in other words, has returned to the power-on state most frequently among the plurality of MFPs 10. This is an MFP (hereinafter also referred to as the most advanced return MFP).

  In step S37, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates the group data GD in the own device based on the latest information received in step S36.

  In the following, first, a case where the MFP 10c receives an instruction to transition from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T5 (see FIG. 7) will be exemplified. Next, a case where the MFP 10b accepts a transition instruction from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T6 (see FIG. 7) is illustrated. Further, at time T7 (see FIG. 7), the MFP 10d changes from the power-off state to the power-on state. An example of accepting a transition instruction to is shown.

  First, a case where the MFP 10c receives an instruction to transition from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T5 will be described.

  In step S31, the data updating unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10c in the group data GD3 from the power-off state (OFF) to the power-on state (ON).

  In step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10c determines whether any of the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d (other devices) is in a power-on state. Here, at time T5, all of MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d are in the power-off state. Therefore, in step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10c determines that none of the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d is in the power-on state, and proceeds to step S33.

  In step S33, after the MFP 10c transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10c receives the latest information of the group data GD1 by the e-mail ML1. The email ML1 is sent by the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10a when the MFP 10a transits from the power-on state to the power-off state at time T4 (see FIG. 7).

  In step S34, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the group data GD3 in the MFP 10c based on the latest information of the group data GD1 received by the e-mail ML1.

  Next, a case where the MFP 10b receives an instruction to transition from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T6 will be described.

  In step S31, the data updating unit 95 of the MFP 10b updates the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10b in the group data GD2 from the power-off state (OFF) to the power-on state (ON).

  In step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10b determines whether any of the MFPs 10a, 10c, and 10d (other devices) is in a power-on state. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, at time T6, the MFP 10c is in a power-on state. Therefore, in step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10b determines that there is a power-on state (MFP 10c) among the MFPs 10a, 10c, and 10d, and the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S35, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10b transmits the latest information of the group data GD2 to the MFP 10c (advance return MFP) through the data communication DC1. Here, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10b transmits the group data GD2 itself as the latest information of the group data GD2. At this time, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10c immediately updates the group data GD3 in the MFP 10c based on the group data GD2.

  In step S36, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10b receives the latest information of the group data GD3 from the MFP 10c. In other words, the MFP 10b transmits / receives the latest information to / from the MFP 10c.

  In step S37, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10b updates the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b based on the latest information of the group data GD3.

  Next, a case where the MFP 10d receives an instruction to transition from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T7 will be described.

  In step S31, the data updating unit 95 of the MFP 10d updates the data indicating the power state of the MFP 10d in the group data GD4 from the power-off state (OFF) to the power-on state (ON).

  In step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d determines whether there are any of the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10c (other devices) in the power-on state. Here, as shown in FIG. 7, at time T7, the MFPs 10b and 10c are in the power-on state. Therefore, in step S32, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d determines that there is a power-on state (MFP 10b, 10c) among the MFPs 10a, 10b, 10c, and the process proceeds to step S35.

  In step S35, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10d transmits the latest information of the group data GD4 to the MFPs 10b and 10c (advance return MFP) through the data communication DC1. Here, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10d transmits the group data GD4 itself as the latest information of the group data GD4. At this time, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10b immediately updates the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b based on the group data GD4, and the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the group data in the MFP 10c based on the group data GD4. Update GD3 immediately.

  In step S36, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d receives the latest information of the group data GD3 from the MFP 10c (the most advanced return MFP) having the longest power-on duration among the MFPs 10b and 10c. In other words, the MFP 10d transmits / receives the latest information to / from the MFP 10c.

  In step S37, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10d updates the group data GD4 in the MFP 10d based on the latest information of the group data GD3.

  According to the above operation, the latest information transmitting unit 91 of the MFP 10a (own device) is in the case where all of the other devices are in the power off state at the time when the own device attempts to transition to the power off state (time T4). Transmits the latest information of the group data GD in the own device to the other device by the electronic mail ML1. Therefore, at time T4, even if any of the other devices is in a power-off state, the updated contents of the group data GD (GD1) in the own device are transferred to the group in the other device (MFP 10b, 10c, 10d). It can be reflected in the data GD (GD2, GD3, GD4). For example, at time T5, the MFP 10c that first changes to the power-on state among the plurality of MFPs updates the update contents of the group data GD1 based on the latest information of the group data GD1 received by the email ML1 from the MFP 10a. Can be reflected in the group data GD3.

  Also, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10b (own device) receives the latest information of the group data GD (GD3) in the preceding return MFP from the preceding return MFP (MFP 10c) by the data communication DC1. Therefore, the group data GD in the preceding return MFP in the period (time T5 to time T6) from when the preceding return MFP (MFP 10c) returns to the power-on state until the MFP 10b (own device) changes to the power-on state. The updated contents of (GD3) can also be reflected in the group data GD (GD2) in the own device.

  Similarly, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d (own apparatus) receives the latest information of the group data GD (GD3) in the preceding return MFP from the preceding return MFP (MFP 10c) by the data communication DC1. Therefore, the group data GD in the preceding return MFP in the period (time T5 to time T7) from when the preceding return MFP (MFP 10c) returns to the power-on state until the MFP 10d (own device) transitions to the power-on state. The updated contents of (GD3) can also be reflected in the group data GD (GD4) in the own device.

  By the way, in FIG. 7, the case where there is only a little time difference between the time T6 and the time T7 (the case of almost simultaneous) is considered. At this time, when the MFP 10d returns from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T7, there is a situation where the update of the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b is not completed. Under such circumstances, even when the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d uses the latest information of the group data GD2 in the MFP 10b, it is difficult to obtain accurate shared information from the MFP 10b.

  In contrast, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d according to this embodiment receives the latest information of the group data GD3 in the MFP 10c from the MFP 10c having the longest power-on duration among the preceding return MFPs 10b and 10c. In other words, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d receives the latest information of the group data GD in the most preceding return MFP from the most preceding return MFP among the plurality of preceding return MFPs.

  According to this, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the transition instruction receiving MFP 10 receives the latest information of the group data GD in the most preceding return MFP from the most preceding return MFP among the plurality of preceding return MFPs, thereby making it more accurate. It is possible to receive the latest information.

<2. Second Embodiment>
The second embodiment is a modification of the first embodiment. Below, it demonstrates centering on difference with 1st Embodiment.

  In the first embodiment, as shown in FIG. 7, at time T5, after the MFP 10c transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10c receives one email ML1. The case was illustrated.

  In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, after the MFP 10d transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state at time T10, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d sends two emails ML1 and ML2 to each other. The case of receiving is illustrated. As will be described later, in the second embodiment, the operation in step S34 in FIG. 6 is different from that in the first embodiment.

  Specifically, in the second embodiment, at time T9, the MFP 10c transitions again from the power-on state to the power-off state. At this time, the MFP 10c executes the processing of the flowchart of FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, at time T9, the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d are in a power-off state. Therefore, when the MFP 10c transitions from the power-on state to the power-off state, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the MFP 10c transmits the latest information of the group data GD3 to the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10d by the email ML2 (FIG. 5). Step S24).

  Thereafter, at time T10, the MFP 10d transits from the power-off state to the power-on state, and the MFP 10d executes the processing of the flowchart of FIG. As shown in FIG. 8, at time T10, the MFPs 10a, 10b, and 10c are in a power-off state. Therefore, after the MFP 10d transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d receives the latest information on the group data GD1 by the email ML1, and at the same time, receives the latest information on the group data GD3 by the email ML2. Receive at. That is, after the MFP 10d transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10d receives a plurality of e-mails (e-mail ML1 and e-mail ML2) (step S33 in FIG. 6).

  Further, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10d updates the group data GD4 based on the latest information included in the email received in step S33 (step S34). However, in the second embodiment, in step S34 (FIG. 6), the group data GD4 is updated based on the latest information received by the latest e-mail among the plurality of e-mails.

  In the second embodiment, as shown in FIG. 8, the e-mail ML1 is transmitted at time T5, and the e-mail ML2 is transmitted at time T9 (> T5). That is, the email ML2 is the latest email. Then, as described above, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10d updates the group data GD4 in the MFP 10d based on the latest information of the group data GD3 received by the latest e-mail ML2.

  At time T5 (see FIG. 8), as in the first embodiment, after the MFP 10c transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state, the latest information receiving unit 93 of the MFP 10c updates the latest information of the group data GD1. Receive by email ML1. Further, the data update unit 95 of the MFP 10c updates the group data GD3 in the MFP 10c based on the latest information received by the e-mail ML1. That is, the latest information of the group data GD1 is reflected in the group data GD3 in the MFP 10c.

  Therefore, when the group data GD4 is updated based on the latest information of the group data GD3 received by the e-mail ML2 at time T10 (see FIG. 8), the latest information of the group data GD1 is also reflected in the group data GD4. Is done.

  According to the above operation, when receiving a plurality of e-mails from another machine, the data updating unit 95 of the own machine automatically executes the update based on the latest information received by the latest e-mail among the plurality of e-mails. Update the in-flight group data GD. Therefore, even when a plurality of e-mails are received, the data update unit 95 of the own device updates the group data GD in the own device to the latest state by performing one update operation based on the latest e-mail. Is possible. That is, it is not necessary to perform a plurality of update operations based on a plurality of emails.

<3. Modified example>
Although the embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the contents described above.

  For example, in each of the above embodiments, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device has exemplified the case of transmitting the group data GD itself in the own device to the other device as the latest information of the group data GD in data communication. It is not limited to this, You may make it use difference data. Specifically, in the data communication, the latest information transmission unit 91 of the own device may transmit the difference data after the update of the group data GD in the own device to the other device as the latest information of the group data GD. .

  Further, in each of the above embodiments, the group data GD is illustrated as including the data regarding the power source of each MFP 10 and the data regarding the hard disk. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the group data GD includes various data. You may make it comprise. For example, the group data GD may be configured to include data relating to the power supply of each MFP 10 and data relating to user information (such as user ID data and password data).

  In each of the above embodiments, the case where the latest information is transmitted / received by the data communication DC1 in each of step S13 in FIG. 4, step S23 in FIG. 5, step S35 in FIG. 6, and step S36 in FIG. However, the present invention is not limited to this. For example, in step S13, step S23, step S35, and step S36, the latest information may be transmitted / received by e-mail ML.

10 (10a to 10d) Information holding device (MFP)
100 Information sharing system GD (GD1-GD4) Group data T1-T10 Time ML1, ML2 E-mail

Claims (11)

An information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices,
An information holding device;
Another information holding device connected to the one information holding device via a network;
With
The one information holding device is:
First storage means for storing first data relating to shared information;
Transmitting means for transmitting the latest information of the first data to the other information holding device;
Have
The other information holding device is:
Second storage means for storing second data relating to the shared information;
Receiving means for receiving the latest information from the one information holding device;
Updating means for updating the second data based on the latest information;
Have
The transmitting means may change the one information holding device from a power-on state to a power-off state when all the information holding devices other than the one information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices are in a power-off state. At the time of transition, the latest information is sent by e-mail to the other information holding device,
The information receiving system, wherein the receiving unit receives the latest information by the e-mail after the other information holding device transitions from a power-off state to a power-on state. The information sharing system according to claim 1,
The receiving unit may be configured such that, when one or more information holding devices other than the other information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices are in a power-off state, the other information holding device is powered on. An information sharing system, wherein the latest information is received by the e-mail after transition from an off state to a power on state. In the information sharing system according to claim 1 or 2,
The update unit updates the second data based on the latest information received by the latest e-mail among the plurality of e-mails when the receiving unit receives a plurality of e-mails. Information sharing system. In the information sharing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3,
The first information holding device that is an information holding device other than the other information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices is an information holding device other than the first information holding device among the plurality of information holding devices. When a certain second information holding device is in a power-on state, after the first information holding device transitions from a power-off state to a power-on state, the second information holding device receives the shared information from the second information holding device. An information sharing system characterized by receiving the latest information through data communication. The information sharing system according to claim 4,
In the first information holding device, when two or more information holding devices other than the first information holding device are in a power-on state, the first information holding device changes from a power-off state to a power-on state. After the transition, an information sharing system, wherein the latest information related to the shared information is received by data communication from the information holding device having the longest power-on duration among the two or more information holding devices. An information holding device capable of network communication with other information holding devices in an information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices,
Storage means for storing data relating to shared information;
Transmitting means for transmitting the latest information of the data to the other information holding device;
With
When the information holding device other than the own device is in a power-off state among the plurality of information holding devices, the transmitting unit is An information holding device, wherein the latest information is transmitted by electronic mail to the other information holding device. An information holding device capable of network communication with other information holding devices in an information sharing system for sharing information among a plurality of information holding devices,
Storage means for storing first data relating to shared information;
Receiving means for receiving the latest information of the second data related to the shared information from the other information holding device;
Updating means for updating the first data based on the latest information;
With
The receiving unit receives the latest information by using an e-mail transmitted from the other information holding device after the information holding device transits from a power-off state to a power-on state. apparatus. The information holding device according to claim 7,
The receiving means may be configured such that when any one or two or more information holding devices other than the own device among the plurality of information holding devices are in a power-off state, the information holding device is switched from a power-off state to a power-on state. After the transition to, the information holding device receives the latest information of the second data by the e-mail. The information holding device according to claim 7 or 8,
The update unit updates the first data based on the latest information received by the latest e-mail among the plurality of e-mails when the receiving unit receives the plurality of e-mails. Information holding device. The information holding device according to any one of claims 7 to 9,
When the other information holding device is in a power-on state, the receiving unit receives the latest latest information from the other information holding device after the information holding device transitions from the power-off state to the power-on state. An information holding device receiving by communication. The information holding device according to claim 10,
In the case where two or more information holding devices among the plurality of information holding devices are in a power-on state, the receiving unit starts from the information holding device having the longest power-on duration among the two or more information holding devices. An information holding apparatus for receiving the latest information by data communication.

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