JP2012083987A - Image formation system, information processor, information processing program and image formation method - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an image formation system, an information processor, an information processing program and an image formation method which allow a user to set an executable image formation function for realizing a specific purpose in an optional image formation device.SOLUTION: The image formation system includes at least one image formation device and an information processor communicable with at least one image formation device for transmitting print data to at least one image formation device. Each of at least one image formation device includes a means for acquiring documents including function names and corresponding explanations about executable image processing functions, and a means for creating a purpose function list by grouping the executable image processing functions concerning the acquired documents by keywords each of which shows a purpose of each image processing function.

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system, an information processing apparatus, an information processing program, and an image forming method capable of outputting data on a network from an arbitrary image forming apparatus.

  Conventionally, a so-called “pull print” system that can output data on a network (typically on a server device) from an arbitrary printer has been proposed.

  In such a pull printing system, when printing the print data on the server device, each print data (file on the server device) is obtained so that the same result can be obtained regardless of which printer is used. In some cases, for example, a favorite standard print setting (default print setting) is registered for each user, and is called and used.

  However, when performing print output from various printers connected to the network, the image forming function that can be executed differs depending on the printer to be used. Therefore, the target image forming function cannot be used depending on the selected printer. In some cases, the desired print result cannot be obtained.

  Therefore, in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2006-110661 (Patent Document 1), whether or not there is a function that cannot be used is confirmed, and if there is a function that cannot be used, processing with higher priority is prioritized and enabled. A configuration is disclosed in which the user is confirmed whether to enable the setting.

  Another possible method is to group functions and present alternative functions from the functions. As an example of grouping functions, there is JP-A-2008-070777 (Patent Document 2). This patent document 2 refers to a machine use history, holds a combination of functions used at the same time, and when a certain function is used, presents the function used at the same time to the user. The configuration is disclosed.

JP 2006-110861 A JP 2008-070777 A

  However, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 1, combinations of settings are limited to functions within a range that can be turned ON / OFF by a printer. In addition, the alternative functions are only combinations that are registered first, and even if a new function is installed in a printer that is added later, it cannot cope with it.

  Further, in the method disclosed in Patent Document 2, grouping is performed according to functions that are used at the same time, so it is difficult to exert an effect on a function that is effective alone. Also, when using a large number of printers, particularly printers of different printer manufacturers, the function names are different even with the same processing contents, and it is difficult to specify the setting item from the function name.

  For example, processing that makes it easier to sort by shifting the paper discharge position for each print job has different names such as “sort”, “shift”, “shift sort”, and “offset discharge” depending on the manufacturer. Has been granted. In such a case, it is difficult to determine whether or not the same setting is made from the function name, and the alternative function cannot be reset.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object thereof is to set an image forming function that can be executed to realize a specific purpose in an arbitrary image forming apparatus. An image forming system, an information processing apparatus, an information processing program, and an image forming method are provided.

  An image forming system according to an aspect of the present invention includes at least one image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with at least one image forming apparatus and transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus. . The information processing apparatus includes a unit that acquires a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function that can be executed in each of the at least one image forming apparatus, and each image processing function for the acquired document. Means for creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions according to a keyword indicating the purpose.

  Preferably, when the information processing apparatus transmits print data to a specific image forming apparatus, the information processing apparatus cannot execute the image processing function specified in the print setting added to the print data. If there is a means for determining the presence or absence of an image processing function that can be performed and an image processing function that cannot be executed in the image forming apparatus, the purpose function list is referred to for the same purpose as the image processing function that cannot be executed Means for acquiring a certain other image processing function as an alternative function, and means for notifying the acquired alternative function to a user who has instructed transmission of the print data.

  More preferably, the means for acquiring as an alternative function preferentially selects an image processing function having a higher similarity when there are a plurality of other image processing functions having the same purpose.

Preferably, the explanatory document is help information related to an image processing function.
Preferably, the information processing apparatus has a target function list held in the information processing apparatus in response to an image forming apparatus having a target function list for an image processing function executable by the information processing apparatus becoming communicable. In addition, the information processing apparatus further includes means for updating the target function list by merging the target function list of the image forming apparatus that can communicate.

  Preferably, the information processing apparatus transmits print data to an image forming apparatus other than the standard image forming apparatus registered for the user and a means for registering a standard image forming apparatus as an output destination for each user. In response to the instruction, a means for extracting, as a new function, an executable image processing function that can be executed only in the destination image forming apparatus between the standard image forming apparatus and the destination image forming apparatus; Means for acquiring an image processing function having the same purpose as any one of the image processing functions specified in the print settings added to the print data among the new functions with reference to the target function list; And a means for notifying the user who has instructed the transmission of the print data of the function.

  More preferably, the information processing apparatus responds to a print data transmission instruction from the user and obtains a standard print setting and a standard image forming apparatus associated with the print data, and a standard print Among the image processing functions specified in the settings, if the image processing functions cannot be executed in the standard image forming apparatus and there is no alternative function, the image specified in the standard print settings Means for acquiring another image forming apparatus capable of executing the processing function; means for notifying the acquired other image forming apparatus to the user who has instructed transmission of the print data; and in response to the user's approval instruction, Means for transferring the print data to the other image forming apparatus.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with at least one image forming apparatus and capable of transmitting print data to at least one image forming apparatus is provided. The information processing apparatus includes a unit that acquires a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function that can be executed in each of the at least one image forming apparatus, and each image processing function for the acquired document. Means for creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions according to a keyword indicating the purpose.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, an information processing program executed in an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with at least one image forming apparatus and capable of transmitting print data to at least one image forming apparatus I will provide a. The information processing program causes the information processing apparatus to acquire a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of at least one image forming apparatus, and The executable image processing functions are grouped according to a keyword indicating the purpose of each image processing function, thereby functioning as a means for creating a target function list.

  According to still another aspect of the present invention, there is provided at least one image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with at least one image forming apparatus and transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus. An image forming method executed in the system is provided. An image forming method includes a step of acquiring a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of at least one image forming apparatus, and for each acquired image processing function, Creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions according to a keyword indicating the purpose.

  According to the present invention, it is possible to set an image forming function that can be executed to realize a specific purpose in an arbitrary image forming apparatus.

1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming system according to an embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a schematic diagram which shows the schematic hardware constitutions of the server apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows the main data maintained in the server apparatus according to embodiment of this invention. FIG. 11 is a sequence diagram showing an overall processing procedure in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the target function list used in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the search process using the target function list used in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a sequence diagram showing a procedure for creating a target function list in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the initial purpose function list produced | generated in the image forming system according to embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the state with which the association with the PJL command was performed with respect to the target function list in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure which shows an example in the state in which the objective function list uniquely set in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention was reflected.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the drawings. Note that the same or corresponding parts in the drawings are denoted by the same reference numerals and description thereof will not be repeated.

<A. Overview>
In the present embodiment, in an image forming system including an image forming apparatus (printer) and an information processing apparatus (server apparatus) that transmits print data to the image forming apparatus, the function name and By acquiring a corresponding explanatory document (text explaining the function), and grouping and holding the executable image processing functions by a keyword indicating the purpose of each image processing function for the acquired document To facilitate the presentation, selection, and use of alternative functions.

  The explanatory document includes text, keywords, and the like that describe what operation the image processing function performs. In the present embodiment, as an example, one-point help information mounted on the image forming apparatus, a help file of a printer driver, or the like is used.

  In the grouping as described above, grouping is typically performed based on keywords indicating the same purpose or function in one-point help information or a help file describing a certain function. For example, if a document includes the keywords “for each job (partly or in units of jobs)”, “shift (or shift)”, and “discharge (or output)”, the same “ Sort into the same group as the “sort” function. If there is a description about a similar function in the document, it is reflected in the grouping. In this way, a target function list is created.

  Such grouping by purpose is performed based on “keywords included in function names”, “keywords included in function description information”, and the like.

  Referring to this target function list, in the print settings added to the target print data, among the image processing functions set to “execute”, the output destination image forming apparatus cannot execute the corresponding function The image processing function for the same purpose is notified to the user as an alternative function.

<B. Overall configuration>
FIG. 1 is a schematic configuration diagram of an image forming system 1 according to an embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 1, image forming system 1 includes personal computers PC1 and PC2, which are representative examples of information processing apparatuses connected to the same network NW, server apparatus SRV, and image forming apparatuses MFP1, MFP2 and MFP3. Including.

  Personal computers PC1 and PC2, server SRV, and image forming apparatuses MFP1, MFP2 and MFP3 are configured to be capable of data communication with each other via network NW. The network NW includes a dedicated line such as a LAN (Local Area Network) and a WAN (Wide Area Network) and a public line such as a virtual private network, and a part or all of the network NW is a wireless LAN. Wireless communication may be used. In the present embodiment, it is sufficient that at least communication is possible between server SRV and image forming apparatuses MFP1, MFP2, MFP3.

  The personal computers PC1 and PC2 are installed with application programs for document creation and spreadsheet, and generate print data 2 from documents created by the user using such application programs. More specifically, the printer drivers preinstalled in the personal computers PC1 and PC2 can be interpreted by the image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3 in accordance with drawing commands output from an operating system (OS) or an application program. A control code (typically, a PJL (Printer Job Language) command) is generated. Further, the print data 2 may include print settings relating to prints set by the user at the time of generation.

  The personal computers PC1 and PC2 transmit the print data 2 generated in this way to the server SRV. When pull printing is not performed, the personal computers PC1 and PC2 may directly transmit the print data 2 to any one of the image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3.

  Server SRV receives and stores print data 2 transmitted from personal computers PC1 and PC2, and receives a pull print request from any of personal computers PC1 and PC2 or image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3. The stored print data 2 is transmitted to the instructed output destination image forming apparatus.

  Server SRV is also configured to be able to communicate with web server apparatuses Web1 and Web12 that provide a printer driver for creating print data for image forming apparatus MFP via the Internet or the like.

  The image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3 are typically MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) equipped with a plurality of functions such as a copying function, a facsimile function, and a scanner function. Image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3 perform image processing on print data 2 from server SRV. Note that the image processing includes not only printing on a paper medium but also various types of additional processing as described later.

  Hereinafter, a configuration for realizing such a function will be described in detail. In the following description, personal computers PC1 and PC2 are collectively referred to as “personal computer PC”, and image forming apparatuses MFP1 to MFP3 are collectively referred to as “image forming apparatus MFP”.

<C. Hardware configuration>
(C1: Image forming apparatus)
FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic hardware configuration of image forming apparatus MFP according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 2, image forming apparatus MFP includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 100, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 102, an S-RAM (Static-Random Access Memory) 104, and an NV-RAM (Non-RAM). Volatile Random Access Memory (106) and a clock IC (Integrated Circuit) 108 are provided. These parts are connected to each other via a bus 124.

  The CPU 100 implements the processing according to the present embodiment by reading a program stored in advance in the ROM 102 or the like into the S-RAM 104, which is a working memory, and executing it. The NV-RAM 106 stores various settings relating to image formation in the MFP in a nonvolatile manner. In particular, NV-RAM 106 stores device information including a function mounting state in image forming apparatus MFP. Such device information is set by a maintenance staff or the like before shipment from the factory or when a new function is added. Alternatively, the device information may be updated by periodically detecting a function in which the CPU 100 is mounted. The clock IC 108 includes a crystal oscillator and the like, and measures the current time.

  Further, image forming apparatus MFP includes an image reading unit 112, an operation panel unit 114, a printing unit 116, a printer controller 118, and an output processing unit 120.

  The image reading unit 112 is a part for realizing a scanner function, and reads an original to generate image data. Typically, the image reading unit 112 includes a loading table for setting a document, a document table glass, a conveyance unit that automatically conveys documents set on the loading table one by one to the document table glass, and a reading unit. And a discharge table for discharging the printed document (none of which is shown).

  Operation panel unit 114 is formed by integrating numeric keypad 130, PRINT key 132, logoff key 134, touch panel 136, and display unit 138, and is arranged on the surface of image forming apparatus MFP. The numeric keypad 130, the PRINT key 132, the logoff key 134, and the touch panel 136 function as an input unit that accepts user operations, while the display unit 138 functions as a display unit that displays a screen for prompting the user to make various settings and selections. . The display unit 138 is typically composed of a liquid crystal panel or the like, and a touch panel 136 is disposed on the display surface of the display unit 138.

  The printing unit 116 is a part for performing an image printing process on a paper medium. Typically, an image forming unit including an exposure device and a developing roller, and a toner image formed by the image forming unit are transferred to the paper medium. A transfer roller, a fixing device for fixing the transferred toner image, and a control circuit for controlling the operation of each unit.

  The printer controller 118 converts print data from the personal computer PC and image data read by the image reading unit 112 into data suitable for print processing by the print unit 116. If image forming apparatus MFP is typically a color system, printer controller 118 print data and image data of raster data of four colors of yellow (Y), magenta (M), cyan (C), and black (K). And raster data for each color is output to the printing unit 116.

  The output processing unit 120 is a part that performs processing on the paper medium after the image is formed by the printing unit 116, and typically performs “sort processing”, “group processing”, “staple processing”, “punch processing”, and the like. Execute.

  In image forming apparatus MFP according to the present embodiment, print unit 116 and output processing unit 120 provide various types of image processing. In other words, the image processing function that can be executed in image forming apparatus MFP is determined by mounting print unit 116 and output processing unit 120.

  Further, image forming apparatus MFP includes a hard disk unit (HDD) 110 and a network interface (I / F) unit 122.

  The hard disk unit 110 is a storage unit that stores a relatively large amount of data in a nonvolatile manner, and stores print data from the personal computer PC, image data read by the image reading unit 112, and the like. The network interface unit 122 is a part for data communication with the personal computer PC and the server apparatus SRV via the network NW.

Note that the image forming system according to the present embodiment aims to realize a desired function even when image forming apparatuses of a plurality of different manufacturers are connected to the same network NW. Therefore, image forming apparatus MFP connected to network NW is not limited to the configuration shown in FIG.
(C2: Server device)
FIG. 3 is a schematic diagram showing a schematic hardware configuration of server SRV according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 3, server SRV is executed by CPU 200 that executes various programs including an operating system, memory unit 212 that temporarily stores data necessary for execution of programs by CPU 200, and CPU 200. And a hard disk unit 210 that stores the program in a nonvolatile manner. Such a program is read from a CD-ROM 214a or a flexible disk 216a by a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory) drive 214 or a flexible disk (FD: Flexible Disk) drive 216, respectively.

  The CPU 200 receives a user operation request via the input unit 208 such as a keyboard or a mouse, and outputs a screen output generated by executing the program to the display unit 204. CPU 200 performs data communication with server SRV and image forming apparatus MFP via a network interface (I / F) unit 206 formed of a LAN card or the like. These parts are connected to each other via the internal bus 202.

Server SRV stores print data and the like from personal computer PC in hard disk unit 210.
(C3: Personal computer)
Since the general hardware configuration of personal computer PC is the same as that of FIG. 3, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

<D. Related Data Set>
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing main data maintained in server SRV according to the embodiment of the present invention. Referring to FIG. 4, server SRV holds standard print setting 300, PJL command list 350, and target function list 400.

  The standard print setting 300 is information set for each user or each print data, and holds settings used for print output by the image forming apparatus that is the output destination. Typically, it includes settings relating to the prints most frequently used by each user. Specifically, it is defined by an image processing function (server command) executed in the server SRV executed for each print data and an image processing function (PJL command) executed in the image forming apparatus. Standard print setting 300 also includes designation of output destination image forming apparatus MFP.

  The PJL command list 350 defines a list of functions held by each of the image forming apparatuses that can communicate with the server SRV. This PJL command list 350 is acquired by server SRV at a timing when image forming apparatus MFP is connected to network NW, as will be described later.

  The target function list 400 is a target function list in which functions that can be executed in the image forming apparatus MFP and the server apparatus SRV are grouped by a keyword representing the purpose of the function. Specific examples thereof will be described later. For example, keywords “staple” and “punch hole” are associated with the keyword “binding” representing the purpose of the function as subordinate concepts. The keywords “staple” and “staple mark printing” are further associated with “staple”.

  As described above, the image forming system according to the present embodiment presents, selects, and uses an alternative function even when image forming apparatuses of different manufacturers are connected to the same network NW. It makes it easy to do. For this reason, image processing functions to which different names are assigned for each manufacturer are grouped from the viewpoint of the purpose so as to clarify the association between the functions. The target function list 400 preferably has a tree structure as will be described later.

<E. Overall procedure>
Next, print processing according to the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram showing an overall processing procedure in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, the overall processing procedure according to the present embodiment proceeds by exchange among personal computer PC, server SRV, and image forming apparatus MFP which are terminals operated by the user.

  First, the user performs an operation for issuing a print command to the personal computer PC (sequence SQ2). More specifically, the user selects a “print” command while a document creation or spreadsheet application program is being executed on the personal computer PC. Then, personal computer PC transmits print data to server SRV (sequence SQ4). Server SRV receives print data from personal computer PC (sequence SQ6).

In the narrowly-defined “pull print” image forming system, the server SRV
The print processing is started by giving the server device SRV a command (in addition to this, a command for selecting the image forming apparatus MFP as the output destination) for selecting the print data stored in. In this case, the processes of sequences SQ2 to SQ6 can be omitted.

  When the start of such print processing is instructed, server SRV acquires the standard print setting added to the target print data (sequence SQ8). As described with reference to FIG. 4, it is assumed that the standard print settings 300 are registered in advance in the server SRV for each user or for each print data. In other words, server SRV obtains standard print settings and a standard image forming apparatus associated with the print data in response to an instruction to send print data from image forming apparatus MFP to the user.

  If print settings are added in advance to the print data transmitted from the personal computer PC, the print settings have priority over the standard print settings.

  Next, server SRV determines whether image processing function designated in the acquired print setting is to be executed by server SRV or output destination image forming apparatus MFP (sequence SQ9). .

  For example, main image processing functions executed by the server SRV include mark addition, enlargement / reduction, and page layout change for a document image. On the other hand, main image processing functions executed by output destination image forming apparatus MFP include finishing processing such as stapling and punching holes, and addition of a tint block pattern. Depending on the image forming apparatus MFP that is the output destination, a specific image processing function (for example, change of page layout or enlargement / reduction) among the image processing functions that can be executed by the server SRV can also be executed.

  Subsequently, server SRV determines whether or not there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in output destination image forming apparatus MFP for the image processing function specified in the acquired print setting (sequence SQ10). In other words, server device SRV transmits the print data to output destination image forming apparatus MFP, among the image processing functions specified in the print settings added to the print data, in image forming apparatus MFP. It is determined whether there is an image processing function that cannot be executed. Note that the server SRV may determine whether an image processing function that cannot be executed by the server SRV is specified.

  More specifically, server SRV obtains a list of functions held (supported) by output destination image forming apparatus MFP. As an example, referring to a PJL command list 350 as shown in FIG. 4, a list of PJL commands that can be executed by the image forming apparatus MFP of the output destination is acquired. Then, the image processing function included in the print setting added to the print data is compared with the acquired list of PJL commands, and the list of PJL commands is displayed despite the setting in the print settings. It is determined whether there is an image processing function that does not exist. That is, the server SRV determines whether or not all the PJL commands specified in the print settings (standard print settings) added to the target print data are included in the list of PJL commands. Then, a PJL command that is not supported in the output destination image forming apparatus MFP, that is, an image processing function that cannot be executed is specified.

  If there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in output destination image forming apparatus MFP, the process proceeds to sequence SQ12. On the other hand, if there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in output destination image forming apparatus MFP, the process jumps to sequence SQ22.

  If there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in output destination image forming apparatus MFP, server SRV obtains an alternative function of the image processing function that cannot be executed (sequence SQ12). More specifically, the server SRV refers to the target function list 400 and extracts an image processing function having the same purpose as the image processing function that cannot be executed. In other words, server SRV has the same purpose as the non-executable image processing function with reference to target function list 400 when there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in output destination image forming apparatus MFP. The image processing function is acquired as an alternative function.

  A process of acquiring another image processing function having the same purpose as the inexecutable image processing function as an alternative function with reference to the target function list 400 will be described in detail later.

  When the server device SRV acquires the alternative function, the server device SRV notifies the user of the acquired alternative function. If the user approves this notification, the notified setting regarding the alternative function is reflected in the output setting of the target print data. That is, the server SRV notifies the user who has instructed the transmission of the print data of the acquired alternative function.

  More specifically, server SRV transmits display data for notifying the alternative function to personal computer PC (sequence SQ14). In response to this display data, the personal computer PC presents an image processing function that cannot be executed by the image forming apparatus MFP that is the output destination, and a recommended alternative function in place of the image processing function. Is done. In response to this display, when the user performs a user operation such as approval (for example, pressing of the “OK” button) (sequence SQ18), in response to the user operation, the personal computer PC sends a user instruction to the image forming apparatus MFP. Is transmitted (sequence SQ20). When the user directly operates server SRV, notification is performed on server SRV instead of the process of performing notification on the screen of personal computer PC (sequences SQ14 to SQ20). User operations for this are accepted.

  In response to the user's consent, server SRV converts the print data into output data in accordance with the (changed) print setting (sequence SQ22). At this time, server SRV executes image processing to be executed by server SRV determined in sequence SQ9, and reflects the result in the output data. The server SRV also changes the page layout according to the print settings (after the change). As output data, data in PS (PostScript) format or PDF (Portable Document Format) format can be adopted.

  Further, server SRV generates a PJL command (Printer Job Language) in accordance with the print settings (after change) in consideration of the image processing function that can be executed by image forming apparatus MFP of the output destination, and outputs it as output data. It is added (sequence SQ24). Server SRV transmits the output data to which the PJL command is added to output destination image forming apparatus MFP (sequence SQ26).

  Image forming apparatus MFP at the output destination performs image processing according to the print data received from server SRV and the added PJL command (sequence SQ28), and executes the designated image processing function (sequence SQ30). Then, output destination image forming apparatus MFP performs print output based on the execution result of the image processing function (sequence SQ32). Even in the print output, processing according to the PJL command added to the target print data is executed.

<F. Structure of target function list and search method>
Next, a target function list used for searching for an alternative function and a search process using the target function list will be described.

  First, in the present embodiment, the target function list is a grouping of functions (executable image processing functions) possessed by the image forming apparatus and server apparatus by keywords representing the purpose of the functions.

  FIG. 6 shows an example of a target function list used in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 6, for example, “staple” and “stapler” and keywords “punch hole”, “drilling”, and “punching” are associated with the target keyword “binding” as subordinate concepts, respectively. It has been. The concepts of “staple” and “staple mark printing” are further associated with “staple” and “stapler”. Further, the concepts of “punch hole” and “punch hole mark printing” are further associated with “punch hole”, “drilling”, and “punching”.

Thus, related keywords are organized in a tree shape.
Each of the lowest keyword groups is associated with an image processing function (server command) executable by the server apparatus and / or an image processing (PJL command) executable by the image forming apparatus MFP. . There are a plurality of image processing functions for one keyword (image processing function) when the PJL command is different depending on the model of the image forming apparatus MFP, or for image processing functions that can be executed in both the server SRV and the image forming apparatus MFP. Will be associated.

  When an alternative function is extracted by referring to the target function list as described above, a PJL command determined to be inexecutable in the output destination image forming apparatus MFP is searched from the target function list and related in the list. Functions grouped as functions are extracted as alternative functions.

Next, an alternative function search process will be described with reference to FIG.
FIG. 7 is a diagram showing an example of search processing using a target function list used in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 7, for example, image forming apparatus MFP set as the output destination even though the command “FINISH: STAPLE” is set, which means execution of the “staple” function in the standard print setting. Now consider the case where there is no corresponding command (not supported).

  In this case, first, a command “FINISH: STAPLE” is searched in the target function list. Subsequently, the list is traced in reverse, and related image processing functions are sequentially extracted. When the extracted image processing function is a server command (that is, an image processing function executed by the server SRV), the extracted image processing function can be executed and is thus extracted as a substitute function (candidate). On the other hand, when the extracted image processing function is a PJL command (that is, an image processing function executed by image forming apparatus MFP), image processing (command that can be executed by image forming apparatus MFP set as an output destination) ), And only when it is determined that it can be executed, it is extracted as an alternative function (candidate).

  In the example of FIG. 7, four commands indicated by thick frames are extracted for the command “FINISH: STAPLE”. In this example, these four commands are notified to the user as alternative functions.

  Note that the search range may be limited in advance. For example, there are restrictions such as not extracting if they are not in the same hierarchy, extracting only up to two hierarchy differences, and extracting only three from the closest distance.

  In addition, when both the server command and the PJL command are extracted from the image processing functions in the same hierarchy, a setting is made such that only the server command is extracted preferentially or only the PJL command is extracted preferentially. Also good.

  In addition, when a plurality of other image processing functions having the same purpose are extracted, an image processing function having a higher similarity may be preferentially selected. This similarity may be calculated based on a norm distance between commands or the like.

<G. Procedure for creating the target function list>
Next, a procedure for creating a target function list will be described. The procedure for creating a target function list according to the present embodiment is mainly based on (1) initial target function list creation processing and (2) an image processing function provided by an image forming apparatus on the network. Update processing.

FIG. 8 is a sequence diagram showing a procedure for creating a target function list in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. Among the processing procedures shown in FIG. 8, (1) the initial target function list creation process corresponds to the sequence SQ102, and (2) the initial target function list is updated based on the image processing function provided by the image forming apparatus on the network. The processing corresponds to sequences SQ104 to SQ126.
(G1: Initial target function list creation process)
First, server SRV creates an initial target function list (sequence SQ102). More specifically, the server SRV associates an image processing function registered in its own device (prepared as an executable image processing function) with each target keyword. It is assumed that the target keyword is stored in advance in server SRV. The server SRV also registers the PJL command included in the standard print setting in association with each target keyword.

  FIG. 9 shows an example of the initial target function list generated in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 9, the server SRV creates an initial target function list based on the image processing function that can be executed by the own apparatus and the image processing function that can be executed by the image forming apparatus included in the standard print settings.

Thereafter, the initial target function list is updated by various methods as will be described later.
(G2: Target function list update process)
Subsequently, an update process of the initial target function list is executed. This update process includes a process of adding a unique command to image forming apparatus MFP connected to the network, and a process of adding a unique target function list held by image forming apparatus MFP.

  Server SRV obtains a list of image forming apparatuses MFP connected to the network. More specifically, server SRV broadcasts a Management Information Base (MIB) over the network (sequence SQ104), and lists image forming apparatuses MFP based on responses from image forming apparatuses MFP on the same network. (Printer list) is generated (sequence SQ106).

  Subsequently, the server SRV acquires an image processing function that can be executed in each image forming apparatus and a keyword related to each image processing function.

  More specifically, server SRV transmits a request command to each image forming apparatus MFP (sequence SQ108), and each image forming apparatus MFP receives a PJL command executable in image forming apparatus MFP. The PJL command list describing the list and the contents of the one-point help related to the PJL command are acquired (SQ110).

  Alternatively, as another form, server SRV transmits a request command to each image forming apparatus MFP (sequence SQ112), and from each image forming apparatus MFP, a PJL command executable in image forming apparatus MFP is transmitted. Even if a PJL command list containing a list is acquired, a printer driver help file corresponding to the acquired PJL command list is acquired, and keywords related to the PJL command are extracted / generated from the acquired help file Good. As a method for acquiring the help file, a method for acquiring a printer driver help file directly from each image forming apparatus MFP (sequence SQ116), or position information (typically URL (Uniform) where the target printer driver exists is present. There is a method (sequence SQ118) of receiving a Resource Locator)) and downloading driver data from the Web server device Web1 or Web12 specified by the position information to obtain a help file (CHM: Compiled Help Module). The server SRV expands the acquired help file so that it can be searched as a document.

  Thus, server SRV obtains a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function that can be executed in each of image forming apparatuses MFP. In particular, help information about the image processing function is used as the function name and the corresponding explanatory document.

  Subsequently, server SRV acquires the relationship between the function described in the document and the PJL command (sequence SQ120). In other words, the server SRV creates (updates) a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions for the acquired document by a keyword indicating the purpose of each image processing function.

  FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which the target function list is associated with the PJL command in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention.

  More specifically, the server SRV functions as a help file item that searches the meaning (similar word) of each command with reference to dictionary data held in advance and includes the searched similar word in the document. Extract as a name. In order to avoid duplicate registration, it is preferable to execute these processes after removing items corresponding to PJL commands and known (registered) PJL commands included in the standard print settings from the help file. As a result, the initial purpose list is updated as shown in FIG.

  As an alternative configuration, in order to execute these processes, a correspondence relationship between known PJL commands and help item names may be held as a list.

  Note that functions that are described in the document but are not included in the PJL command are not functions of the image forming apparatus, but are functions that are executed by the driver, and are therefore excluded from registration targets. .

  Subsequently, server SRV associates the target function list with each printer function (sequence SQ122). More specifically, server SRV registers, in the function purpose list, function names for which it is determined that registration is necessary among the function names extracted in sequence SQ120.

  That is, whether or not PJL commands already registered in the target function list (included in the standard print settings) are further registered in the function purpose list based on whether or not they are included in the acquired document. Determine whether. In contrast, a PJL command that is not registered in the target function list is registered in the function purpose list using a keyword included in the function description information of the PJL command.

  At this time, the function name (help file title) or the text describing the function (first paragraph of the help file, that is, the part describing the function) contains an item containing the target keyword. If there is, search for it and register it in the target function list.

  Preferably, the title includes the keyword with the highest weight, and the text explaining the function includes the keyword with the second highest weight. As a result of the extraction, the PJL command related to the item having the largest weight is registered in the target function list.

  Next, when there is a target function list uniquely set in image forming apparatus MFP, server SRV reflects the target function list in the target function list (sequence SQ124).

  FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a state in which an objective function list uniquely set in the image forming system according to the embodiment of the present invention is reflected.

  More specifically, server device SRV determines whether or not there is an item including “purpose” or “use” in the title of the help file when acquiring the help file of image forming apparatus MFP. If there is such an item, it can be determined that the help file contains function list information for each purpose / use that is uniquely considered by the manufacturer of the image forming apparatus.

  Further, for image forming apparatus MFP having a target function list for image processing functions that can be executed by the apparatus itself, in response to server apparatus SRV being able to communicate with these image forming apparatuses MFP, The target function list may be updated by merging the target function list held by the image forming apparatus MFP that can communicate with the target function list held in server SRV. Thereby, the target function list is updated to the contents as shown in FIG.

  That is, it may be detected that image forming apparatus MFP is newly connected to the network, and sequence SQ124 in the processing procedure shown in FIG.

  Through the processing described above, server SRV completes the update of the target function list (sequence SQ126).

<H. Modification>
(H1: Modification 1)
In the above-described embodiment, as the standard print settings, the settings used for printing out by the output destination image forming apparatus and the configuration in which the standard output destination image forming apparatus is set are exemplified. Under such circumstances, the user may transmit print data after selecting an image forming apparatus different from the standard output destination as the output destination. In such a case, considering the difference in the image processing function supported between the image forming apparatus registered as the standard output destination and the image forming apparatus newly set by the user, an alternative function is provided. You may make it notify a user.

  That is, the server SRV registers an output destination default image forming apparatus for each user as a part of the standard print setting 300. When the server SRV receives an instruction from the user to transmit print data to an image forming apparatus other than the standard image forming apparatus registered for the user, the server SRV and the output destination image forming apparatus. An executable image processing function that can be executed only with the output destination image forming apparatus is extracted as a new function. Then, the server SRV refers to the target function list, and among the extracted new functions, the image processing having the same purpose as any one of the image processing functions specified in the print settings added to the print data. Search for features. The searched function is notified to the user who instructed the transmission of the print data.

  If the user approves, the extracted new function is transmitted to the output image forming apparatus after adding the PJL command to the print data so as to be executed as the searched alternative function.

Since other configurations are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, detailed description will not be repeated.
(H2: Modification 2)
In the above-described embodiment, when the PJL command included in the print setting added to the target print data cannot be executed in the output image forming apparatus, the alternative function is searched and the searched alternative The configuration for notifying the user of the function is illustrated. At this time, the designated image forming apparatus may not have an appropriate substitute function. In this case, it is preferable to notify the user of an alternative image forming apparatus instead of the alternative function.
That is, in response to a print data transmission instruction from the user, server SRV acquires standard print settings and a standard image forming apparatus associated with the print data. Then, the server SRV is an image processing function that cannot be executed by the standard image forming apparatus among the image processing functions specified in the standard print setting, and there is no alternative function. Another image forming apparatus capable of executing the image processing function specified in the setting is searched. Then, the other image forming apparatus (which can execute the image processing function specified in the standard print setting) searched is notified to the user who has instructed the transmission of the print data.

  If the user approves, the print data is transferred to the other image forming apparatus and print processing is executed.

  Since other configurations are the same as those in the above-described embodiment, detailed description will not be repeated.

<I. Other forms>
Another aspect of the present invention can be expressed as follows.

  According to another aspect of the present invention, in an image forming system in which a server and a large number of printers are connected on a network, function names and function explanation documents are acquired for the image processing functions of the printer main body and the server. The feature function list is created by grouping the functions according to the keywords included in the explanatory document.

  Preferably, when printing data on a network with a specific printer via a server, a standard print setting prepared for each user or for each data is acquired, and among the functions set in the standard print settings Determining whether there is a function for which the corresponding function does not exist in the printer to be output, extracting the same target function from the target function list for the function without the corresponding function, and presenting it to the user as an alternative function To do.

  Preferably, the function explanation document is a character string in a function help item of the printer.

  Preferably, the server holds a target function list in which image processing functions to be executed by the server at the initial startup are classified according to purpose, and the printer holds a target function list in which the functions of the printer itself are classified by purpose. Is connected to the network, the function name and the keyword related to the function are transmitted to the server, and the server adds and updates the data in the target function list held by itself.

  Preferably, for each user, a function for registering a standard printer in the server, a function for the user's standard printer when pulling data on the server from a printer other than the standard printer, and a function for the printer to be output There is a procedure for extracting a new function as a new function that is not in the user's standard printer but a new function for the same purpose as the function enabled in the standard print settings. It is characterized by notifying whether or not there is an item to the user.

  Preferably, when there is no substitute function that can achieve the same purpose, it is displayed that there is a purpose that cannot be realized in the standard print settings, and candidates for alternative printers that satisfy the function are displayed. A print job is transferred to the printer.

  Preferably, when there are a plurality of alternative functions that can realize the same purpose, a particularly similar function is preferentially displayed.

<J. Effect>
According to the present embodiment, in a print network environment in which image forming apparatuses having different executable image processing functions exist, they differ from each other with respect to substantially the same image processing function (for example, due to differences in manufacturers). Even when function names are assigned, image processing functions can be appropriately grouped.

  At this time, since the image processing functions are grouped from the viewpoint of purpose, even if the operations of the image processing functions are different from each other, the function having the same purpose of the operation is notified to the user as an alternative function. Therefore, the user can use a function close to a practical use purpose in any image forming apparatus.

  According to the present embodiment, it is possible to automatically generate a “target function list” that groups the image processing functions of the server device and the image forming apparatus by purpose. By using this “target function list”, it is possible to notify the user of “a function that can achieve the same purpose” even if it does not completely match the desired image processing function.

  As a result, even when the desired function is not installed in the image forming apparatus, the alternative function can be appropriately selected and set.

  According to this embodiment, the image processing function that can be executed by the image forming apparatus can be replaced with the image processing function that can be executed by the server apparatus. Therefore, even an image processing function that cannot be handled by the image forming apparatus alone can be handled.

  According to the present embodiment, by notifying the user of “a more convenient function that can achieve the same purpose”, a new function installed in the image forming apparatus can be provided even for a user with less knowledge. It is easy to know and it can be used effectively.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  1 image forming system, 2 print data, 102, 214a ROM, 104, 106 RAM, 108 clock IC, 110, 210 hard disk unit, 112 image reading unit, 114 operation panel unit, 116 print unit, 118 printer controller, 120 output Processing unit, 122, 206 Network interface (I / F) unit, 122 Network interface unit, 124 Bus, 130 Numeric keypad, 132 PRINT key, 134 Logoff key, 136 Touch panel, 138 Display unit, 202 Internal bus, 204 Display unit, 208 Input unit, 212 memory unit, 214 CD-ROM drive, 216 flexible disk drive, 216a flexible disk, 300 standard print settings, 350 commands List, 400 purpose function list, MFP, MFP1~MFP3 image forming apparatus, NW network, PC, PC1, PC2 personal computer, SRV server device, Web1, Web12, Web1 web server device.

Claims (10)

An image forming system,
At least one image forming apparatus;
An information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with the at least one image forming apparatus and transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus;
The information processing apparatus includes:
Means for obtaining a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of the at least one image forming apparatus;
An image forming system comprising: means for creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions for the acquired document according to a keyword indicating a purpose of each image processing function. The information processing apparatus includes:
When transmitting print data to a specific image forming apparatus, it is determined whether there is an image processing function that cannot be executed by the image forming apparatus among the image processing functions specified in the print settings added to the print data. Means to judge,
When there is an image processing function that cannot be executed in the image forming apparatus, referring to the target function list, another image processing function having the same purpose as the image processing function that cannot be executed is acquired as an alternative function. Means,
The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising means for notifying the acquired alternative function to a user who has instructed transmission of the print data.   The image forming system according to claim 2, wherein the means for acquiring as an alternative function preferentially selects an image processing function having a higher degree of similarity when there are a plurality of other image processing functions having the same purpose.   The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the explanatory document is help information related to an image processing function. The information processing apparatus includes:
In response to the fact that an image forming apparatus having a target function list for an image processing function that can be executed by the own apparatus becomes communicable, the target function list held in the information processing apparatus can be communicated. 5. The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising a unit that updates the target function list by merging the target function list of the image forming apparatus. The information processing apparatus includes:
Means for registering a standard image forming apparatus as an output destination for each user;
In response to an instruction from the user to send print data to an image forming apparatus other than the standard image forming apparatus registered for the user, between the standard image forming apparatus and the destination image forming apparatus. Means for extracting an executable image processing function that can be executed only in the destination image forming apparatus as a new function;
Means for obtaining an image processing function having the same purpose as any one of the image processing functions specified in the print settings added to the print data, with reference to the target function list;
The image forming system according to claim 1, further comprising means for notifying the acquired function to a user who has instructed transmission of the print data. The information processing apparatus includes:
Means for acquiring a standard print setting and a standard image forming apparatus associated with the print data in response to a print data transmission instruction from the user;
Among the image processing functions specified in the standard print setting, if the image processing function is not executable in the standard image forming apparatus and there is no alternative function, the standard print setting Means for acquiring another image forming apparatus capable of executing the designated image processing function;
Means for notifying the acquired other image forming apparatus to a user who has instructed transmission of the print data;
The image forming system according to claim 6, further comprising means for transferring the print data to the other image forming apparatus in response to a user's approval instruction. An information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with the at least one image forming apparatus and capable of transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus,
Means for obtaining a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of the at least one image forming apparatus;
An information processing apparatus comprising: means for creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions for the acquired document by a keyword indicating a purpose of each image processing function. An information processing program executed in an information processing apparatus configured to be communicable with the at least one image forming apparatus and capable of transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus. Information processing device
Means for obtaining a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of the at least one image forming apparatus;
An information processing program causing an executable image processing function to be grouped by a keyword indicating the purpose of each image processing function with respect to the acquired document to function as means for creating a target function list. An image forming method executed in a system including at least one image forming apparatus and an information processing apparatus configured to communicate with the at least one image forming apparatus and transmitting print data to the at least one image forming apparatus. There,
Obtaining a function name and a corresponding explanatory document for an image processing function executable in each of the at least one image forming apparatus;
An image forming method comprising: creating a target function list by grouping executable image processing functions for the acquired document by a keyword indicating a purpose of each image processing function.

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