JP2016193582A - Job processing device and program for the same - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide a job processing device that can update to an update program at an optimum timing for a user who is using own device, and to provide a program for the same.SOLUTION: When receiving a setting operation from a user, a server checks whether it has an update program corresponding to a program for controlling operations of own device and corresponding to the setting operation thereof, if it has the update program, the server changes control relating to update of the update program to the program.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 12

Description

  The present invention relates to a job processing apparatus that acquires an update program from a server and performs the update, and the program.

  In recent years, in a multi-function peripheral (MFP) equipped with functions such as a printer, a scanner, and a facsimile, it has become widespread to update a program stored in a ROM (Read Only Memory) through a network. . For example, an MFP that detects that an update program has been uploaded to the server executes the aforementioned update by downloading the update program.

  The MFP cannot execute a job or accept an operation during the above-described update. Therefore, the above-described update is usually performed when the MFP is not executing a job or when the MFP is not receiving an operation, that is, in a so-called standby state.

  As a method for updating a program through a network, for example, there are methods described in Patent Document 1 and Patent Document 2. Patent Document 1 describes a method of acquiring an update program from a server and updating the computer program of the MFP, and Patent Document 2 describes a method of installing an extension program as necessary.

JP 2011-39827 A JP 2013-25592 A

  A new update program may be uploaded to the server while the MFP receives a job setting operation. In this case, there are two possible timings: the setting operation is interrupted and the update is performed, or the update is performed after waiting until the standby state is reached, but the update timing is fixed at any of the timings described above. In this case, it is assumed that the following problems occur.

  When the setting operation is interrupted and the update to the update program is forcibly performed, if the update program has not been modified with respect to the execution of the set job, the user who performed the setting operation Therefore, an extra waiting time occurs.

  On the other hand, when the update to the update program is started after waiting until it enters the standby state, the execution start of the job during the setting operation is not waited for the update, but the update program is set. If the portion related to the job execution is modified, it is not possible to obtain the benefit of the update in the job execution.

  The above-mentioned problem is not only caused when a new update program is uploaded to the server while the MFP receives a job setting operation, but the job execution actually starts after the job setting operation is completed. It may also occur when a new update program is uploaded to the server before it is released.

  The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problem, and provides a job processing apparatus capable of performing an update to an update program at an optimal timing for a user who is using the apparatus, and a program thereof. It is aimed.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] An operation unit that receives a job setting operation from a user;
A network communication unit that communicates via a network;
A job processing unit that executes a job set by the setting operation, a storage unit that stores a program for controlling the operation of the own device, and
A control unit that acquires an update program corresponding to the program from a server using the network communication unit, and updates the program stored in the storage unit to the update program;
With
The control unit checks whether or not the update program exists in the server when the operation unit receives a setting operation of a first job from a user. If the update program exists, A job processing apparatus, wherein the control related to the update is changed according to whether or not a portion related to execution of one job is modified.

  In the above invention, when the operation unit receives the setting operation of the first job from the user, it is checked whether or not the server has an update program corresponding to the program for controlling the operation of the own apparatus. If the update program exists, the control related to the update of the update program is changed according to whether or not the part related to the execution of the first job is modified. For example, the timing of updating (updating) the program of its own device to the update program is changed, or whether or not warning display is performed is changed. The user who is setting the first job by changing the timing of updating to the update program according to whether or not the part related to the execution of the first job in the update program is modified The update to the update program can be performed at the optimal timing. Examples of the update timing for the update program include before and after execution of the first job.

[2] In the case where the update program has a part related to execution of the first job modified, the control unit executes the first job after performing the update, or The job processing apparatus according to [1], wherein selection of whether to perform the update after executing the first job is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection.

  In the above invention, when the update program is a part related to execution of the first job, the update program is updated at any timing before or after execution of the first job. Receive selection from user to do. This improves convenience for the user.

[3] The control unit executes the first job after performing the update when the update program is a part related to execution of the first job, and the update program executes the first job. The job processing apparatus according to [1], wherein if the program does not have a portion related to the execution of the first job modified, the update is performed after the first job is executed. .

  In the above invention, when the update program is a part related to the execution of the first job, the first job is executed after the update to the update program, and the update program If the portion related to job execution is not modified, the first job is executed and then the update program is updated. If the portion related to the execution of the first job is not modified in the update program, the first update is performed for the user who has performed the setting operation by updating the update program after the execution of the first job. Prevent extra waiting time before job execution. In addition, if the update program has a portion related to the execution of the first job, the update to the update program is performed before the execution of the first job, so that the update is performed in the execution of the first job. Can benefit from.

[4] The control unit
The update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, and the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data. If so, execute the first job after performing the update,
In the case where the part related to the execution of the first job is not modified in the update program, and the part related to the execution of the first job is modified in the update program. If the job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after the update or the first job is performed. The job processing apparatus according to [1], wherein selection of whether to perform the update after executing a job is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection.

  The transmission job for sending data to the outside and the memory erasure job for erasing stored data are assumed to have a greater impact than other jobs when a failure occurs due to the job. . Therefore, in the above invention, the server has an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified, and the first job transmits a data to the outside or a memory for erasing stored data In the case of an erasure job, the first job is executed after forcibly updating to the update program, thereby preventing the occurrence of a malfunction due to the first job.

  In addition, when the update program existing in the server is not the part related to the execution of the first job, and the update program is the part related to the execution of the first job is modified. If the first job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the effect of the problem caused by the first job is minor or a problem occurs. There is a high possibility of not. Therefore, in such a case, priority is given to the convenience and convenience of the user by receiving from the user the choice of whether to update to the update program at the timing before or after execution of the first job.

[5] In the case where the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the control unit may complete the setting operation for the first job. In addition, it is checked whether or not an update program in which a portion related to execution of the first job has been modified exists in the server, and before the execution of transmission or deletion by the first job starts, When it is confirmed that an update program in which a part related to execution is modified exists in the server, the execution of the first job is temporarily stopped and the first job is executed after the update is performed. Or receiving from the user a selection of whether to perform the update after executing the first job, and controlling execution of the update and the first job according to the selection. The job processing apparatus according to [1] or [4].

  As described above, the transmission job and the memory erasure job have a greater influence when a problem occurs due to the job than other jobs. Therefore, in the above invention, whether or not an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified exists in the server even after the setting operation of the first job is completed is transmitted according to the job. Alternatively, monitoring is performed until immediately before the execution of erasure starts. When it is confirmed that an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified exists in the server, the execution of the first job is temporarily stopped, and the execution before and after the execution of the first job. The user receives a selection as to which program update process is to be performed later. Thereby, even after the setting operation is completed, the update program can be updated at the optimum timing for the user who performed the setting operation.

[6] The control unit issues a warning to the user when the update program existing in the server is a modified part related to execution of the first job. The job processing apparatus according to any one of [1] to [5].

  In the above invention, when the update program existing in the server is a part in which the portion related to the execution of the first job is modified, a warning is given to the user. As a result, the user can confirm that the server has an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified.

[7] The control unit according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the control unit checks whether the update program exists in the server every time a setting operation is received. Job processing device.

[8] An operation unit that receives a job setting operation from a user;
A network communication unit that communicates via a network;
A job processing unit that executes a job set by the setting operation, a storage unit that stores a program for controlling the operation of the own device, and
A function for acquiring an update program corresponding to the program from a server using the network communication unit and updating the program stored in the storage unit to the update program A program to
The job processing device;
When the operation unit receives a setting operation of the first job from the user, the server checks whether or not the update program exists in the server. If there is, the update program executes the first job. A program that operates to change the control related to the update in accordance with whether or not a portion related to the item is modified.

[9] The job processing device is
If the update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, execute the first job after the update or execute the first job. The program according to [8], wherein a selection as to whether to perform the update is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection.

[10] The job processing device is
If the update program has a part related to the execution of the first job, the first job is executed after the update, and the update program executes the first job. The program according to [8], wherein when the portion related to execution is not modified, the first job is executed and then the update is performed.

[11] The job processing device is
The update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, and the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data. If so, execute the first job after performing the update,
In the case where the part related to the execution of the first job is not modified in the update program, and the part related to the execution of the first job is modified in the update program. If the job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after the update or the first job is performed. The program according to [8], wherein a selection of whether to perform the update after executing a job is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection.

[12] The job processing device is
In the case where the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed even after the setting operation of the first job is completed. It is checked whether or not an update program in which a portion related to the file is modified exists in the server. When it is confirmed that the updated program exists in the server, the execution of the first job is suspended and the first job is executed after the update or the first job is executed. The user receives a selection as to whether or not to perform the update after executing the operation, and operates to control execution of the update and the first job according to the selection. [8] or [11].

[13] The job processing device is
When the update program existing in the server is a modified version related to the execution of the first job, the update program is operated to warn the user [8] Thru | or the program as described in any one of [12].

[14] The job processing device is
The program according to any one of [8] to [13], wherein each time a setting operation is received, the server is operated to check whether the update program exists.

  According to the job processing apparatus and the program thereof according to the present invention, the update to the update program can be performed at the optimum timing for the user who is using the apparatus.

It is explanatory drawing which shows the printing system which concerns on embodiment of this invention. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image forming apparatus according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of the server which concerns on embodiment of this invention. It is a figure which shows an example of the management table which a server has in embodiment of this invention. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state in which an image forming apparatus that has received a setting operation inquires of a server whether there is an update program. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the image forming apparatus that has further received the setting operation inquires of the server whether there is an update program after FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode that a user is inquired about the timing of a program update process after FIG. It is a figure which shows a mode that a program update process is performed after FIG. FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a state after the program update process is completed after FIG. 8. 5 is a flowchart illustrating processing performed by an image forming apparatus that has received a setting operation. FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing a continuation of the process of FIG. 10. It is a figure which shows an update process.

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

  FIG. 1 shows a management system 7 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The management system 7 can communicate with a plurality of image forming apparatuses 10 (10A, 10B, 10C) serving as a job processing apparatus of the present invention and the server 40 through a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) 3. Connected to and configured. Hereinafter, the image forming apparatuses 10A, 10B, and 10C will be collectively referred to as “image forming apparatus 10”.

  The image forming apparatus 10 is a copy job that optically reads a document and prints a duplicate image on a recording sheet, a scan job that saves the image data of the read document as a file, or transmits it to an external device, from a PC This is a so-called multi-function machine having a function of executing a job such as a print job for printing an image relating to the transmitted data on a recording sheet and outputting the image. The image forming apparatus 10 includes an operation panel 30 that includes a display unit 31 and an operation unit 32 to operate the apparatus main body. For example, the image forming apparatus 10 displays a screen for performing device information and setting operation of the apparatus itself. Receive job setting operations from the user.

  The server 40 is a computer device such as a so-called PC (Personal Computer) terminal provided with a display unit 51 such as a display and an operation unit 52 (see FIG. 3) such as a keyboard and a mouse. An update program for updating a program held in the image forming apparatus 10 to a new version is uploaded to the server 40 by an administrator or the like.

  The image forming apparatus 10 downloads an update program uploaded to the server 40 from the server 40 via the LAN 3, and executes a program update process for updating (updating) the program held by the apparatus to the update program. When the image forming apparatus 10 receives a setting operation for the first job from the user via the operation unit 32, the image forming apparatus 10 checks whether or not an update program exists in the server 40. The control (program update process control) for updating the program held by the own apparatus to the update program is changed according to whether or not the part related to the execution of the job is modified. For example, the control such as the execution timing of the program update process and whether to display a warning to the user is changed.

  Specifically, the execution timing is changed by changing the timing of executing the program update process either before the execution of the first job or after the execution of the first job.

  Next, the configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention will be described.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the image forming apparatus 10 according to the embodiment of the present invention. The image forming apparatus 10 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 that comprehensively controls the operation of the image forming apparatus 10. The CPU 11 has a ROM 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a nonvolatile memory 14, a hard disk device 15, an image processing unit 16, an image reading unit 17, a printer unit 18, a facsimile communication unit 19, A network communication unit 20, an authentication unit 21, a short-range wireless communication unit 22, and an operation panel 30 are provided.

  The CPU 11 is based on an OS (Operating System) program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. The CPU 11 also functions as a control unit that controls the display content of the operation panel 30.

  The ROM 12 stores a program for starting the image forming apparatus 10. After starting in accordance with these programs, the program stored in the hard disk 15 is loaded into the RAM 13, and the CPU 11 is loaded according to the loaded program. Each function of the image forming apparatus 10 is realized by executing various processes.

  The RAM 13 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes processing based on a program, an image memory for storing image data, and the like.

  The nonvolatile memory 14 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information.

  The hard disk device 15 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores an OS program, various application programs, user information, various job histories, and the like. The hard disk device 15 stores a program for the CPU 11 to execute a series of controls of the image forming apparatus 10. A program (hereinafter referred to as an operation program) to be overwritten by the update program downloaded from the server 40 is also saved. The hard disk device 15 may be another storage medium such as an SSD (Solid State Drive).

  The image processing unit 16 performs processing such as image enlargement / reduction, rotation, rasterization processing for converting print data into image data, image data compression / decompression processing, and the like.

  The image reading unit 17 performs a function of optically reading a document and acquiring image data. The image reading unit 17 sequentially, for example, a light source that irradiates light on the document, a line image sensor that receives the reflected light for one line in the width direction, and a line-by-line reading position in the length direction of the document. An optical path composed of a moving unit for moving, a lens, a mirror, and the like for guiding reflected light from the document to the line image sensor to form an image, and a conversion unit for converting an analog image signal output from the line image sensor into digital image data And so on.

  The printer unit 18 has a function of forming an image corresponding to image data on a recording sheet. Here, it has a recording paper transport device, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer separation device, a cleaning device, and a fixing device, and forms an image by an electrophotographic process. It is configured as a so-called laser printer. Other methods may be used for image formation.

  The facsimile communication unit 19 performs a function of transmitting / receiving image data to / from an external apparatus having a facsimile (FAX (facsimile)) function through a public line.

  The network communication unit 20 has a function of communicating data with the server 40 and other external devices through a network such as a LAN.

  The authentication unit 21 performs a function of performing user authentication. Specifically, user authentication is performed when a user logs in, and a login user is specified. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that login is required to use the operation unit 32, and user authentication is always performed before use. The user authentication method may be any suitable method such as user ID (Identification) and password authentication or fingerprint authentication.

  The near field communication unit 22 performs near field communication with an external device such as a portable terminal. The communicable distance is, for example, within 10 cm.

  The operation panel 30 includes a display unit 31 and an operation unit 32. The operation unit 32 includes a switch unit 33 such as a start button and a return button, and a touch panel unit 34. The display unit 31 is composed of a liquid crystal display (LCD) and the like, and has a function of displaying various operation screens, setting screens, and the like. In the present embodiment, the CPU 11 performs control of display contents displayed on the operation panel 30 and control related to reception of operations by the operation panel 30.

  The touch panel unit 34 is provided on the display unit 31. The touch panel unit 34 detects a touch position (coordinate position) on the display unit 31 pressed with a touch pen or a finger. The CPU 11 recognizes a flick operation, a drag operation, and the like from the continuously detected touch position change (operation information).

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the server 40. The server 40 has a CPU 41 that comprehensively controls the operation of the server 40. The CPU 41 includes a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a nonvolatile memory 44, a hard disk device 45, a network communication unit 46, and an operation display unit 50 through a bus.

  The CPU 41 is based on the OS program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. In addition, the CPU 41 functions as a control unit that controls the display content of the operation display unit 50.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 42, and each function of the server 40 is realized by the CPU 41 executing various processes in accordance with these programs. The ROM 42 stores a program for the CPU 41 to execute a series of controls of the server 40 and user information.

  The RAM 43 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 41 executes processing based on a program, an image memory for storing image data, and the like.

  The nonvolatile memory 44 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information.

  The hard disk device 45 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores an OS program, various application programs, and the like. An update program uploaded by an administrator or the like, a management table 90 (see FIG. 4) in which information on the update program is registered, and the like are also stored.

  The network communication unit 46 has a function of communicating data with the image forming apparatus 10 and other external devices through a network such as a LAN. In this embodiment, wireless communication by wireless LAN is performed, but the communication means is not limited to these.

  The authentication unit 47 has a function of performing user authentication. Specifically, user authentication is performed when a user logs in, and a login user is specified. In the present embodiment, it is assumed that login is required to use the operation unit 52, and user authentication is always performed before use. Note that the user authentication method may be any appropriate method such as user ID and password authentication or fingerprint authentication.

  The near field communication unit 48 performs near field communication with an external device such as a portable terminal. The communicable distance is, for example, within 10 cm.

  The operation unit 52 includes an input device such as a keyboard and a mouse. The display unit 51 is a display device such as a liquid crystal display and has a function of displaying various operation screens, setting screens, and the like.

  Next, the management table 90 held by the server 40 will be described. FIG. 4 shows an example of the management table 90 held by the server 40. In the management table 90, a history of update programs uploaded to the own apparatus is registered.

  In the management table 90 of FIG. 4, for each update program uploaded in the past, the date uploaded to the server 40, what kind of trouble was repaired, and the job in which the trouble occurred are displayed to the user. Information on combinations of one or a plurality of setting buttons to be set is registered. When the server 40 acquires the version information (hereinafter referred to as current version information) of the operation program currently used in the image forming apparatus 10, the server 40 acquires the acquired current version and the latest update registered in the management table 90. The version of the program is compared, and an update program corresponding to the operation program, that is, whether an update program whose version is newer than the operation program currently used in the image forming apparatus 10 has been uploaded or not is determined. Notify

  The management table 90 in FIG. 4 indicates that the update program has been uploaded to the server 40 twice. The program uploaded for the first time is the first program. In addition, the latest update program (uploaded for the second time) is a modified version of the FAX broadcast transmission function, and the setting when the job in which the problem occurs is set by the user As combinations of buttons (unspecified setting buttons), setting buttons (FAX button, broadcast transmission button) related to FAX and broadcast transmission are registered.

  In the embodiment, depending on whether or not the setting including the same combination as the combination of setting buttons registered in the management table 90 is set, the update program determines a part related to execution of a job being set in the image forming apparatus 10. Judge whether it is a modified one or not. However, performing the above-described determination by a combination of setting buttons is an example of the determination method, and functions set in the image forming apparatus 10 may be compared.

  Next, control when the image forming apparatus 10 updates (updates) an update program will be described with reference to a plurality of control examples.

(Control example 1, receiving timing selection from user)
In the control example 1, the image forming apparatus 10 checks whether or not the update program existing in the server 40 is a modified part related to the execution of the first job. If the part related to the execution of the program has been modified, selection of whether to execute the first job after executing the program update process or to execute the program update process after executing the first job Is received from the user, and the program update process is performed according to the selection.

  That is, in the control example 1, the user can select whether to perform the program update process before or after the execution of the first job, and the convenience for the user is improved. When the image forming apparatus 10 executes the program update process, the update takes several minutes. In addition, it is necessary to restart the device after the update. For example, if the waiting time is wasted, the user may select to perform the program update process before executing the first job.

(Control example 2, timing is automatically determined based on whether or not it is a modified update program)
In the control example 2, the image forming apparatus 10 checks whether or not the update program existing in the server 40 is a modified portion related to the execution of the first job, and the update program is the first job. If the portion related to the execution of the program has been modified, the program update process is performed and then the first job is executed, and the updated program has the portion related to the execution of the first job modified If not, the program update process is performed after the first job is executed.

  In other words, when the update program existing in the server 40 is a part related to the execution of the first job, the first job is executed after executing the program update process. The profit by the improvement can be obtained by executing the above. In addition, if the update program existing in the server 40 is not a part related to the execution of the first job, the first job is executed before the program update process is performed, so that it is a wasteful wait for the user. Generation of time can be prevented.

(Control example 3, control changed according to update program and job type)
In the control example 3, the image forming apparatus 10 is a transmission job in which the update program existing in the server 40 has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, and the first job transmits data to the outside. Alternatively, in the case of a memory erasure job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after performing the program update process.

  In addition, when the update program existing in the server 40 is not a part related to the execution of the first job, and the update program is a part related to the execution of the first job. If the first job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after executing the program update process, or the first job The user receives a selection as to whether or not to perform the program update process after executing this job, and performs the program update process according to the selection.

  A transmission job for transmitting data to the outside and a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, when a malfunction occurs due to the job, it is assumed that the influence of the malfunction is greater than that of other jobs. . Therefore, the server 40 has an update program in which the portion related to the execution of the first job is modified, and the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data. In this case, the first job is executed after the program update process is performed, thereby preventing the occurrence of a malfunction due to the first job.

  In addition, when the update program existing in the server 40 is not a part related to the execution of the first job, and the update program is a part related to the execution of the first job. If the first job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasure job for erasing stored data, the effect of the problem caused by the first job is minor, or the problem Is likely not to occur. Therefore, in such a case, priority is given to the convenience and convenience of the user by receiving from the user the choice of whether to perform the program update process before or after execution of the first job.

(Control example 4, depending on the type of job, the presence or absence of an update program is monitored during job execution)
In Control Example 4, when the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job setting operation has been completed. After that, it is checked whether or not an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job has been modified exists in the server 40. If it is confirmed that the server 40 has an update program in which the relevant part has been modified, the execution of the first job is suspended and the first job is restarted after the program update process is performed. The selection of whether to perform the program update process after executing the first job is received from the user, and the program update process and the execution of the first job are controlled according to the selection.

  As described above, it is assumed that the transmission job and the memory erasure job have a greater influence when a failure occurs due to the job than other jobs. Therefore, even after the setting operation of the first job is completed, an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified until immediately before the execution of the transmission operation or the erasing operation related to the job is started. Monitor whether it is uploaded to the server 40. When it is confirmed that the server 40 has an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the first job is modified, the execution of the first job is temporarily stopped, and before the execution of the first job. The user receives a selection as to when to perform the program update process at any timing after execution.

  In this way, the timing for performing the program update process is changed as in Control Examples 1 to 4. As a result, the image forming apparatus 10 can update the update program at a timing that is optimal for the user who is using the apparatus.

(Example 1)
Next, the flow of processing performed by the image forming apparatus 10 that has received the first job setting operation with respect to the update of the program will be described with reference to FIGS.

  FIG. 5 and FIG. 6 show an update program in which a portion related to execution of a job being set by a setting operation (a function that has been determined to be executed by the setting operation up to the present time) has been corrected (hereinafter referred to as a setting-related portion correction program) Shows the flow of processing to be performed when checking whether or not exists in the server 40.

  First, when the image forming apparatus 10 receives a setting operation (T1), the setting contents being set (information of all setting buttons that have been operated so far (hereinafter referred to as all button information)) and current version information Is notified to the server 40 (T2). In T2, it is assumed that a FAX button, which is a setting button for designating a FAX function, is pressed and the FAX function is being set.

  Upon receiving the notification of T2, the server 40 analyzes the received signal (the notified content) and acquires current version information and all button information (T3). Subsequently, the server 40 refers to the management table 90 and updates the part related to the execution of the job being set in the image forming apparatus 10 (the function that is determined to be executed from the acquired all button information). It is checked whether there is a program (setting related part repair program) (T4).

  Specifically, first, when the version of the latest update program registered in the management table 90 is newer than the version indicated by the current version information, the version of the corresponding version registered in the management table 90 is displayed. If the combination of setting buttons leading to a failure in the update program is included in the setting buttons indicated by the acquired all button information, it is determined that the update program is a setting-related part repair program.

  In FIG. 5, it is assumed that the latest update program version registered in the management table 90 (see FIG. 4) is newer than the version indicated by the current version information. However, in FIG. 5, only the FAX button is set in the image forming apparatus 10, and the combination of the setting buttons registered in the management table 90 (see FIG. 4) is the FAX button + broadcast transmission button. It is determined that the latest update program existing in 40 is not a setting-related part repair program.

  When the check result of T4 is confirmed (T5), the server 40 notifies the image forming apparatus 10 of the result (T6). In FIG. 5, it is notified that there is no setting-related part repair program.

  The image forming apparatus 10 that has received the notification by T6 analyzes the received signal (the notified content), and an update program in which a portion related to execution of the job (FAX) being set has been repaired (setting related portion repair) The program) is confirmed not to exist in the server 40 (T7).

  FIG. 6 shows an update program in which, when the image forming apparatus 10 receives a further setting operation after T7 in FIG. 5, the portion related to the execution of the job being set including the new setting operation is modified. It is checked whether or not (setting-related part repair program) is in the server 40. First, when the image forming apparatus 10 receives a further setting operation (T8), the setting contents being set (all button information up to the present time) are notified to the server 40 (T9). In FIG. 6, it is assumed that a setting button related to broadcast transmission has been pressed, whereby both the FAX function and the broadcast transmission function are being set. Since the current version information is once transmitted at T2 in FIG. 5, the transmission of the current version information is omitted at T9.

  Upon receiving the notification of T9, the server 40 analyzes the received signal (notified content), and acquires the current version information and the setting content being set (all button information) (T10). As for version information, the latest information obtained when the notification is received is obtained.

  Next, the server 40 refers to the management table 90 and checks whether there is a setting-related location repair program by the method described above (T11). Specifically, first, the version of the latest update program registered in the management table 90 (see FIG. 4) is compared with the version indicated by the current version information. As in FIG. 5, it is assumed that there is an update program of a newer version than the current version.

  In FIG. 6, the FAX button + broadcast transmission button is set in the image forming apparatus 10. This combination matches the combination of setting buttons (FAX button + broadcast button) registered in the latest update program of the management table 90 (see FIG. 4), so the latest update program existing in the server 40 is Judge that it is a setting-related part repair program.

  When the check result of T11 is confirmed (T12), the server 40 notifies the image forming apparatus 10 of the result (T13). In FIG. 6, it is notified that there is a setting related part repair program.

  The image forming apparatus 10 that has received the notification by T13 analyzes the received signal (the notified content), and an update program in which a portion related to the execution of the job (FAX) being set is repaired (setting related portion repair) (Program) is present in the server 40 (T14).

  FIG. 7 shows an operation in the case where the timing for performing the program update process is changed according to the selection from the user after T14 in FIG. First, a warning is displayed on the display unit 31 that an update to an update program (setting related part repair program) in which a part related to the execution of a job (FAX, broadcast transmission) being set has been repaired is possible ( T15). Further, an execution button for updating to the update program (program update process) (update button in FIG. 7) and a setting continuation button for continuing the setting operation without performing the updating are displayed on the display unit 31 (T16).

  In FIG. 7, as in Control Example 1, a selection is received from the user as to whether the program update process is performed after the job is executed or before the job is executed. For example, when the program update process is performed after the job is executed, the user presses the setting continuation button described above to continue the setting operation, and the job is executed when the setting is completed. In FIG. 7, it is assumed that the program update process is performed before the job is executed, and the user presses the execution button.

  When the execution button described above is pressed (T17), the image forming apparatus 10 saves the setting contents (FAX, broadcast transmission) being set from the RAM 13 to the nonvolatile memory 14 (T18), and sends the update program to the server 40. Update request signal is generated (T19).

  FIG. 8 shows operations performed by the image forming apparatus 10 and the server 40 when the program update process is performed. After T19 in FIG. 7, the image forming apparatus 10 sets its own apparatus in a standby state for updating to the update program (setting related part repair program) (T20), and then receives the update request signal created in T19. It transmits to the server 40 (T21).

  The server 40 that has received the signal transmitted at T21 analyzes the signal (T22), refers to the management table 90, and determines the latest version of the update program as the update program used for the update (T23). . Thereafter, the update program determined in T23 is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 10 (T24).

  The image forming apparatus 10 overwrites the operation program with the update program transmitted in T24, and completes the update by restarting the own apparatus (T25).

  FIG. 9 shows operations performed by the image forming apparatus 10 and the server 40 after the program update process (update) is completed in T25 of FIG. First, the image forming apparatus 10 notifies the server 40 that the program update process has been completed (T26).

  Upon receiving the notification of T26, the server 40 analyzes the notification signal (T27), and recognizes that the update to the update program (program update processing) has been completed in the image forming apparatus 10 (T28).

  The image forming apparatus 10 that has transmitted the notification of T26 displays the completion of the program update process on the display unit 31 (T29), and the setting contents (FAX, broadcast transmission) saved in the nonvolatile memory 14 are stored in the RAM 13. Return (T30) and execute the job. Since the portion related to job execution has been updated to the updated update program, the benefit of the update program can be obtained when executing the job. That is, the occurrence of problems during job execution is prevented.

  In FIGS. 5 to 9, every time a setting operation is received, it is checked whether or not the server 40 has a setting-related location modification program. Therefore, the setting operation is completed and the job execution start button is pressed. In this case, the user can grasp the presence / absence of the setting related part repair program at an earlier stage than when checking whether or not the server 40 has the setting related part repair program for the first time. Note that, when the setting operation is completed and the job execution start button is pressed, it may be checked whether or not the server 40 has a setting related portion repair program for the first time.

  5 to 9, the case where only the FAX is set in the image forming apparatus 10 and the case where the FAX + broadcast transmission is set have been described. However, for example, FAX + broadcast transmission + E Even when -mail is set, since it corresponds to a combination of setting buttons registered in the management table 90, it is determined that “there is a setting-related part repair program”. If E-mail + broadcast transmission is set, it is determined that “there is no setting related part repair program”.

  In the latest update program registered in the management table 90, FAX + broadcast transmission is set. For example, when only broadcast transmission is registered, the setting related part repair program is in progress while only FAX is set. “None” and “FAX + broadcast transmission” are being set, it is determined that “there is a setting-related part repair program”. If only the FAX is registered in the latest update program registered in the management table 90, it is determined that “there is a setting-related part repair program” both when only the FAX is set and when the FAX + broadcast transmission is set. Ru

(Example 2)
In the aspect example 1, it is determined whether or not the update program existing in the server 40 is an update program (setting related part repair program) in which a part related to execution of a job being set in the image forming apparatus 10 is repaired. 40, and the determination result is transmitted to the image forming apparatus 10. However, in the aspect example 2, the server 40 transmits information on the update contents of the update program to the image forming apparatus 10, and the image forming apparatus 10 A case of making a determination will be described.

  Next, processing performed by the image forming apparatus 10 in the aspect example 2 will be described. 10 and 11 are flowcharts showing processing performed by the image forming apparatus 10. In the image forming apparatus 10, the CPU 11 executes the program stored in the ROM 12, the hard disk device 15, or the like, thereby realizing the processing shown in the flowcharts of FIGS. 10 and 11.

  First, it waits until a job setting operation is received (step S101; No). When a setting operation is received (step S101; Yes), it is determined whether or not there is one or more valid setting by the setting operation. Check (step S102). In the setting operation, there are an operation for selecting a new function and enabling the function, and an operation for disabling the function that has already been set. Checking whether there is a setting.

  When there is no setting of an effective state (step S102; No), it returns to step S101 and continues a process. If there is a valid state setting (step S102; Yes), information related to the latest update program (information registered in the management table 90 such as the version and the combination of setting buttons leading to a malfunction) is acquired from the server 40. (Step S103). Then, the version of the latest update program is compared with the version of the current version information (step S104).

  When the latest update program matches the version information indicated by the current version information, that is, when the latest update program already exists in the own apparatus (step S105; Yes), this processing is terminated.

  If the latest update program and the version information indicated by the current version information are different (step S105; No), the latest update program modifies the part related to job execution with the setting contents being set in the own device. It is checked whether or not the program is an update program (setting-related part repair program) (step S106). As the check method, the method described in Embodiment 1 is adopted.

  When the latest update program is not the setting related part repair program (step S107; No), the process returns to step S101 and continues. If the latest update program is a setting-related part repair program (step S107; Yes), the process proceeds to step S108 in FIG.

  FIG. 11 is a continuation of the process of FIG. 10 and shows a flow of performing the program update process at the timing selected by the user. In step S108, a warning that there is a setting-related location repair program in the server 40, and options for whether to perform the program update process before or after execution of the job being set are displayed on the display unit 31. indicate. Thereby, the user can confirm that there is a server 40 setting related part repair program.

  Until any option is selected (step S109; No), the process returns to step S108 and continues. When one of the options is selected (step S109; Yes), an update process for performing a program update process is executed according to the selected timing (step S110), and this process ends.

  FIG. 12 shows details of the update process performed in step S110 of FIG. First, it waits until a job start operation is received (job setting start button is pressed after all job setting operations are completed) (step S201; No), and when a job start operation is received (step S201; Yes) If the option selected in step S109 in FIG. 11 is “perform program update processing after execution of set job” (step S202; Yes), the job is executed (step S203).

  When the execution of the job is completed, it is checked whether there is a waiting job in the waiting queue, for example, when a new job is input from the outside (step S204). If there is a waiting job (step S205; Yes), the waiting job is saved in the hard disk device 15 or the like (step S206), and a program update process for rewriting the operation program (current program) into an update program is performed. (Step S207).

  When the program update process is completed, reboot (restart) is executed (step S208), the job saved in step S206 is executed (step S209), and this process ends.

  When there is no waiting job (step S205; No), a program update process for rewriting the operation program (current program) into an update program is performed (step S210). When the program update process is completed, reboot (restart) is performed. This is executed (step S211), and this process is terminated.

  If the option selected in step S109 in FIG. 11 is “Perform program update processing before executing the job being set” (step S202; No), the setting contents related to the job (all button information) Is saved in the nonvolatile memory 14, the hard disk device 15 or the like (step S212), and a program update process for rewriting the operation program (current program) into an update program is performed (step S213).

  When the program update process is completed, reboot (restart) is executed (step S214), a job is generated from the setting contents (all button information) saved in step S212 (step S215), and the job is executed (step S215). S216), this processing is terminated.

  Note that the flowchart in the case where the determination in steps S103 to S107 in FIG. 10 is performed by the server 40 and the result is notified to the image forming apparatus 10 shows the flow of processing of the image forming apparatus 10 in the aspect example 1. It will be.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the image forming apparatus 10 in the printing system 7 has been described as an example of a job processing apparatus, but the job processing apparatus is not limited to this. The image processing apparatus may be configured by extracting the CPU 11, the ROM 12, the nonvolatile memory 14, the network communication unit 20, and the image processing unit 16 from the image forming apparatus 10. The present invention may also be a program that causes the above-described job processing apparatus or information processing apparatus to operate as in the embodiment.

  Wireless communication with the server 40 is not limited to a LAN or the like. For example, Bluetooth (registered trademark) may be used.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, the combination of setting buttons registered in the management table 90 is compared with all the buttons being set in the image forming apparatus 10, and whether or not the combination is included, Although it has been determined whether or not the repair program exists in the server 40, a combination of functions is registered in the management table 90 instead of a setting button, and the function of the combination is set in the image forming apparatus 20. It may be determined whether or not the setting-related location repair program exists in the server 40 depending on whether or not it exists.

  In the embodiment of the present invention, when a combination of setting buttons registered in the management table 90 is included in the setting buttons being set in the image forming apparatus 10, “there is a setting-related part repair program” However, only when the combination of setting buttons being set matches the combination of setting buttons registered in the management table 90, it may be determined that “there is a setting-related part repair program”.

3 ... LAN
7 ... Printing system 10 (10A, 10B, 10C) ... Image forming apparatus 11 ... CPU
12 ... ROM
13 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 14 ... Nonvolatile memory 15 ... Hard disk apparatus 16 ... Image processing part 17 ... Image reading part 18 ... Printer part 19 ... Facsimile communication part 20 ... Network communication part 21 ... Authentication part 22 ... Short-distance wireless communication part 30 ... Operation panel 31 ... Display Unit 32 ... Operation accepting unit 33 ... Switch unit 34 ... Touch panel unit 40 ... Server 41 ... CPU
42 ... ROM
43 ... RAM
44 ... Nonvolatile memory 45 ... Hard disk device 46 ... Network communication unit 47 ... Authentication unit 48 ... Near field communication unit 51 ... Display unit 52 ... Operation unit 90 ... Management table

Claims (14)

An operation unit that receives job setting operations from the user,
A network communication unit that communicates via a network;
A job processing unit that executes a job set by the setting operation, a storage unit that stores a program for controlling the operation of the own device, and
A control unit that acquires an update program corresponding to the program from a server using the network communication unit, and updates the program stored in the storage unit to the update program;
With
The control unit checks whether or not the update program exists in the server when the operation unit receives a setting operation of a first job from a user. If the update program exists, A job processing apparatus, wherein the control related to the update is changed according to whether or not a portion related to execution of one job is modified. The control unit executes the first job after performing the update if the update program is a part related to the execution of the first job, or the first program is executed. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a selection of whether to perform the update after executing a job is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection. The control unit executes the first job after performing the update when the update program is a part related to the execution of the first job, and the update program executes the first job. 2. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein if the portion related to the execution of the first job is not modified, the update is performed after the first job is executed. The controller is
The update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, and the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data. If so, execute the first job after performing the update,
In the case where the part related to the execution of the first job is not modified in the update program, and the part related to the execution of the first job is modified in the update program. If the job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after the update or the first job is performed. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein a selection of whether to perform the update after executing a job is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection. In the case where the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the control unit performs the first job after the first job setting operation is completed. It is checked whether or not an update program in which a portion related to execution of one job is modified exists in the server, and is related to execution of the first job before starting execution of transmission or deletion by the first job. If it is confirmed that an update program with a modified part exists in the server, the execution of the first job is temporarily stopped and the first job is executed after the update is performed. A selection of whether to perform the update after executing the first job is received from a user, and the update and the execution of the first job are controlled according to the selection. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1 or 4. The said control part warns the said user when the part relevant to execution of the said 1st job of the said update program which exists in the said server is repaired. The job processing apparatus according to any one of 1 to 5. The job processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the control unit checks whether the update program exists in the server every time a setting operation is received. An operation unit that receives job setting operations from the user,
A network communication unit that communicates via a network;
A job processing unit that executes a job set by the setting operation, a storage unit that stores a program for controlling the operation of the own device, and
A function for acquiring an update program corresponding to the program from a server using the network communication unit and updating the program stored in the storage unit to the update program A program to
The job processing device;
When the operation unit receives a setting operation of the first job from the user, the server checks whether or not the update program exists in the server. If there is, the update program executes the first job. A program that operates to change the control related to the update in accordance with whether or not a portion related to the item is modified. The job processing device;
If the update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, execute the first job after the update or execute the first job. The program according to claim 8, wherein selection of whether to perform the update is received from a user, and the update is performed according to the selection. The job processing device;
If the update program has a part related to the execution of the first job, the first job is executed after the update, and the update program executes the first job. The program according to claim 8, wherein if the portion related to execution is not modified, the program is operated so as to perform the update after executing the first job. The job processing device;
The update program has a part related to the execution of the first job modified, and the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data. If so, execute the first job after performing the update,
In the case where the part related to the execution of the first job is not modified in the update program, and the part related to the execution of the first job is modified in the update program. If the job is neither a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside nor a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed after the update or the first job is performed. The program according to claim 8, wherein a selection of whether to perform the update after executing a job is received from a user and the update is performed according to the selection. The job processing device;
In the case where the first job is a transmission job for transmitting data to the outside or a memory erasing job for erasing stored data, the first job is executed even after the setting operation of the first job is completed. It is checked whether or not an update program in which a portion related to the file is modified exists in the server. When it is confirmed that the updated program exists in the server, the execution of the first job is suspended and the first job is executed after the update or the first job is executed. The user receives a selection as to whether or not to perform the update after executing the operation, and operates to control execution of the update and the first job according to the selection. The program according to claim 8 or 11. The job processing device;
9. The update program in the server is operated so as to warn the user when a part related to execution of the first job is modified. The program as described in any one of thru | or 12. The job processing device;
The program according to any one of claims 8 to 13, wherein the program is operated to check whether or not the update program exists in the server every time a setting operation is received.

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