JP3743419B2 - Setting system, electronic device, and program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
  The present invention relates to a setting system configured to set an electronic device connected to a network based on the setting of an electronic device operating as a model device, an electronic device constituting the setting system, and a computer to function as the electronic device. In particular, the present invention relates to a setting system, an electronic device, and a program that allow an electronic device operating as a model device to exist in one network.
[0002]
[Prior art]
  Conventionally, a printer (an example of an electronic device) and a personal computer are connected to be communicable, and printer settings (for example, information on the access destination of a mail server or DNS server) are changed on the personal computer. There is provided a technique related to remote operation of a printer that controls the printer based on the set contents (see, for example, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-203087).
[0003]
[Patent Literature]
          Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 11-20387
[0004]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
  Further, as described in Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 11-203087, companies and the like tend to generally use a plurality of printers connected to the same network. In such an environment in which a plurality of printers are connected in the same network (especially when there is one administrator managing a plurality of printers), it is assumed that the setting contents of each printer are the same. However, since it is burdensome for the administrator to make settings for each printer, there is a technology in which the printer acquires the setting contents of one printer and sets its own device based on the acquired setting contents. It is requested. In the following, the printer that provides the setting contents of the own device will be referred to as a printer operating as a model printer.
[0005]
  However, if the printer operating as a model printer is limited to a specific printer, for example, if the printer operating as a model printer is temporarily removed from the network or turned off. This causes a problem that there is no printer operating as a model printer on the network, and the printer cannot acquire the setting contents from the printer operating as the model printer.
[0006]
  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides a setting system, an electronic device, and a program that allow an electronic device operating as a model device to exist in one network.
[0007]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
  The setting system according to claim 1 sets the own device when there is a request function for requesting an electronic device operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and the request from another electronic device. A plurality of electronic devices having a response function for transmitting contents are communicably connected via a network, and are operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device. A setting system configured to set no electronic device, the electronic deviceElectronic equipmentAs a model device when theofAcquires the settings of the electronic device operating as a model device based on the requested function from the electronic deviceIn order to operate itself as a model device, when the electronic device is connected to the network, other electronic devices connected to the network operate the electronic device as a model device. A notification means for notifying a message, a normal setting means for setting the electronic device as a model device when the model device responding to the message of the notification means does not exist, and the model responding to the message of the notification means If there is a device, the priority of the electronic device operating as the model device and the electronic device of its own is confirmed, and the priority of the electronic device of its own is the electronic device operating as the model device. Priority to allow the electronic device to operate as the model device if it is higher than or equal to the device priority. Position setting meansAnd.
[0008]
  3. The setting system according to claim 2, wherein when the electronic device that has been operating as a model device before operating itself as a model device by the normal setting unit or the priority setting unit restarts operation, priority setting unit However, the electronic device is prevented from operating as a model device, and the electronic device previously operated as the model device is operated as the model device.
[0009]
  The setting system according to claim 3, when the electronic device is not operated as a model device by the priority setting means, the setting content of the own device is the electronic device that has been operated as the model device before. The electronic device that has been further operated as the model device before updating the setting content of the own device based on the setting content transmitted by the transmission means, further comprising a transmission means for transmitting to the device To do.
[0010]
  The electronic device according to claim 4 is a function of requesting the electronic device operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and the setting of the own device when there is the request from another electronic device. A plurality of electronic devices having a response function for transmitting contents are communicably connected via a network, and are operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device. The power supply that configures the setting system When the electronic device is a child device and the electronic device is not operating as a model device, the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device from the electronic device as the model device based on the requested function When the electronic device is connected to the network to operate itself as a model device, the electronic device is operated as a model device to another electronic device connected to the network. A notification means for notifying a message to the effect, a normal setting means for setting the electronic device as a model device when there is no model device responding to the message from the notification means, and a response to the message from the notification means When the model device exists, the electronic device operating as the model device and the self electronic device are superior. The order is confirmed, and when the priority of the electronic device is higher than or equal to the priority of the electronic device operating as the model device, the electronic device is operated as the model device. An electronic device comprising: priority setting means.
[0011]
  The program according to claim 5 is:A plurality of computers having a request function for requesting a computer operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and a response function for transmitting the setting contents of the own device when there is a request from another computer Are communicably connected via a network, and a computer constituting a setting system configured to set a computer not operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the computer operating as the model device,When the own electronic device is not operating as a model device, the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device are acquired from the electronic device as the model device based on the requested function, and the device is operated as the model device. Therefore, when the electronic device is connected to the network, notification means for notifying another electronic device connected to the network of a message indicating that the electronic device is operated as a model device, the notification When the model device responding to the message of the means does not exist, the normal setting means for setting the electronic device as the model device, and when the model device responding to the message of the notification means exists, the model device operates as the model device The priority order of the electronic device and the self electronic device Previous rank, the equal or higher than the priority of the electronic device running as a model instrument, priority setting means for the electronic equipment of the self, so as to operate as the model device,A program characterized by functioning as
[0012]
  Claim 1, claim4, Claims5according to,When the setting contents of the electronic device cannot be acquired from the electronic device (or computer) operating as the model device, the normal setting means operates itself as the model device.The Also,When the setting contents of the electronic device can be acquired from the electronic device (or computer) operating as the model device, the priority setting unit selects one of the electronic devices based on the electronic device and its own priority. Is operated as a model device. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a situation in which there is no electronic device (or computer) operating as a model device on the network. Further, the priority order setting means operates the electronic device that becomes the new model device as the model device when the priority order of the electronic device that becomes the new model device is higher than or equal to the priority order of the model device. The priority of each electronic device High Or Low of 2 As a result, it is easy to set priorities for operating as model equipment.
[0013]
  Claim2According to the above, it is possible to eliminate the state where two model devices exist on the network, and to operate an electronic device that was previously operated as a model device as a model device. Since the devices exist, the system administrator can easily manage the settings of the electronic devices.
[0014]
  Claim3According to, the electronic device that was set by the administrator while the electronic device that was previously operating as a model device does not exist on the network (for example, when it was disconnected from the network or turned off) The administrator does not need to perform the setting contents again on the electronic device that has been operated as the model device, thereby reducing the burden on the administrator.
[0015]
  Claims4According to this, two model devices do not operate on the network. In addition, since electronic devices that were previously operating as model devices are not operated as model devices (the electronic devices that are currently operating as model devices are continuously operated as model devices) It is possible to prevent a situation where the processing load of the entire system increases due to frequent switching.
[0016]
  Claims5In addition to being able to be recorded and distributed on a removable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), the program can be distributed via a communication network such as the Internet.
[0017]
  Hereinafter, preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.
[0018]
  First, a setting system according to an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of a system configuration of a setting system. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device configuration of the devices constituting the setting system of FIG.
[0019]
  As shown in FIG. 1, the setting system 1 includes printers 2: 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d, personal computers 3: 3a, 3b, and 3c, and a router 4, each of which is a LAN (Local Area Network). 5 LAN cables. The electronic devices of the printer 2 and the personal computer 3 of the setting system 1 can communicate with each other via the LAN 5, and transmit / receive data to / from electronic devices outside the setting system 1 via the router 4. Can be done. However, here, an example will be described in which the electronic device in which another electronic device sets its own device based on the setting content of one electronic device is a printer. A printer that provides the setting contents of its own device to another printer that requested it in response to a request from another printer is referred to as a model printer.
[0020]
  However, the printer 2 and the personal computer 3 of the setting system 1 are devices compatible with SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol). Here, SNMP is a management protocol in an IP (Internet Protocol) network environment standardized by IETF (Internet Engineering Task Protocol). In this SNMP, electronic devices are managed by exchanging management information called MIB (Management Information Base) between the managing SNMP manager and the managing SNMP agent.
[0021]
  As shown in FIG. 2A, the printers 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d in FIG. 1 include a CPU 21, a ROM 22, a RAM 23, an NVRAM 24, an operation panel 25, a printing unit 26, and an interface 27. It has. The printers 2a, 2b, 2c, and 2d have their own functions when a request function for requesting the printer operating as a model printer to transmit the setting contents of the printer and the request from another printer is received. For example, the transmission request for the setting contents and the transmission of the setting contents can be realized by SNMP GET and SNMP REPLY, respectively. However, a printer that is not operating as a model printer uses a request function to make a transmission request for setting contents to a printer that is operating as a model printer. In addition, a printer operating as a model printer uses the response function to transmit the setting contents of its own device to the request source in response to the setting contents transmission request.
[0022]
  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 21 performs various arithmetic processes and functions as a central arithmetic processing unit. The CPU 21 according to the present embodiment sets a setting to be described later from the ROM 22 when the operation on the LAN 5 is started (when power is turned on and it is detected that the LAN 5 is connected via the interface 27). The processing program is read out, and setting processing (see FIGS. 3 and 4) is executed according to the read setting processing program.
[0023]
  A ROM (Read Only Memory) 22 is a read-only storage device and constitutes a part of the main storage device of the printer 2. The ROM 22 has a setting for causing the printer to execute setting processing for setting the own device based on the setting contents of the system program and a printer operating as a model printer described later with reference to FIGS. Various programs such as a processing program (this setting processing program includes a routine for controlling a printer operating as a model printer to exist on the LAN 5) are stored. A RAM (Random Access Memory) 23 is a readable / writable volatile storage device, and constitutes a part of the main storage device of the printer 2 like the ROM 22. The RAM 23 has a work area for storing intermediate results of data processing.
[0024]
  An NVRAM (Non Volatile Random Access Memory) 24 is a storage device that can be read and written, and can continue to store stored data even when the power is turned off. The NVRAM 24 stores a model flag value (Enable or Disable), an automatic setting flag value (Enable or Disable), and a priority value (High or Low). The NVRAM 24 stores setting contents (use protocol, use authority (security), registration of various use servers, information on language, clock, etc.). This setting content is provided from a printer operating as a model printer to other printers.
[0025]
  The model flag is a flag for indicating whether or not the device is a printer operating as a model printer. If the value of the model flag is “Enable”, the printer is operating as a model printer. On the other hand, if the value of the model flag is “Disable”, it is a printer other than the printer operating as the model printer.
[0026]
  The automatic setting flag is a flag for indicating whether or not to set the own device based on the setting contents of the printer operating as the model printer. If the value of the automatic setting flag is “Enable”, the self-device is set based on the setting contents of the printer operating as the model printer. On the other hand, if the value of the automatic setting flag is “Disable”, the own device is not set based on the setting contents of the printer operating as the model printer.
[0027]
  The priority is used to prevent a situation where two or more printers operating as model printers exist on the LAN 5. Specifically, the priority is given to the printer that was operating as a model printer (hereinafter referred to as the current model printer) (hereinafter referred to as the current model printer as appropriate). This is used to determine which of the current model printer and the original model printer is to be used as a model printer when the model printer is rejoined to the LAN 5.
[0028]
  The priority of the current model printer is "High", the priority of the original model printer is "High" and "Low", and the priority of the current model printer is "Low", and the priority of the original model printer Is "Low", that is, when the priority of the current model printer is higher than or equal to the priority of the original model printer, the printer operating as the model printer is set as the current model printer (the current model printer is continued as a model). Operate as a printer and do not operate the original model printer as a model printer).
[0029]
  Also, if the priority of the current model printer is "Low" and the priority of the original model printer is High, that is, if the priority of the current model printer is lower than the priority of the original model printer, it operates as a model printer. The printer is the original model printer (the current model printer is not operated as a model printer, and the original model printer is operated as a model printer).
[0030]
  The operation panel 25 includes a display device that outputs and displays information on a display or the like, and an input device that performs an input operation from the outside. The operation panel 25 includes, for example, a liquid crystal display, a plasma display, and the like. And a touch panel constituting an operation unit as an input device. The printing unit 26 provides a monochrome or color character or image printing function. The interface 27 connects the printer 2 to the LAN 5 and enables communication between the printer 2 and each device such as the personal computer 3 connected to the end of the LAN 5.
[0031]
  The printer 2 described above is configured such that the user can change the automatic setting flag and the priority value. For example, an automatic setting flag setting screen including “Do you want to automatically set the printer based on the setting contents of the model printer” and a corresponding check box is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel 25 ( Corresponds to automatic setting flag). Then, the user sets / changes the value (Enable or Disable) of the automatic setting flag depending on whether the check box is checked using the operation unit of the operation panel 25. However, the automatic setting flag setting screen is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel 25 by a predetermined user operation on the operation unit of the operation panel 25.
[0032]
  In addition, a priority setting screen including “Do you want to increase the priority to maintain operation as a model printer” and a check box corresponding to this is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel 25 (the priority is set). Correspondence). Then, the user sets the priority to “High” by checking the check box using the operation unit of the operation panel 25, and sets the priority to “Low” by removing the check. However, the priority setting screen is displayed on the display unit of the operation panel 25 by the user's predetermined operation on the operation unit of the operation panel 25 in the printer operating as the model printer.
[0033]
  As shown in FIG. 2B, the personal computers 3: 3a, 3b, and 3c in FIG. 1 include a CPU 31, a ROM 32, a RAM 33, an HDD 34, an operation unit 35, a display unit 36, and an interface 37. I have.
[0034]
  The CPU 31 performs various calculations and processes, and functions as a central processing unit. The ROM 32 is a read-only storage device and constitutes a part of the main storage device of the personal computer 3. The ROM 32 stores various programs such as a system program. The RAM 33 is a readable / writable volatile storage device, and constitutes a part of the main storage device of the personal computer 3 like the ROM 32. The RAM 33 has a work area for storing intermediate results of data. An HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 34 is a readable / writable storage device (hard disk) and its reader.
[0035]
  The operation unit 35 constitutes an input device of the personal computer 3. The operation unit 35 is configured by a pointing device such as a keyboard or a mouse in which a predetermined number of input keys are arranged. The display unit 36 is a display device that outputs and displays information on a display or the like, and includes, for example, a liquid crystal display or a plasma display. The liquid crystal display includes a simple matrix type such as STN type and DSTN type and an active matrix type such as TFT. The interface 37 connects the personal computer 3 to the LAN 5 and enables communication between the personal computer 3 and each electronic device such as the printer 2 connected to the end of the LAN 5.
[0036]
  Hereinafter, the setting process performed in the setting system 1 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4. 3 and 4 are flowcharts showing an operation flow of setting processing performed by the printer constituting the setting system 1. 3 and 4 is executed when the printer 2 starts operation on the LAN 5 (when it is detected that the power is turned on and connected to the LAN 5 via the interface 27). Then, the setting process program described above is read from the ROM 22 by the CPU 21 of the printer 2 and started.
[0037]
  In step S <b> 101, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is “Enable”. When it is determined that the model flag is “Enable” (S101: YES), the process proceeds to step S102. On the other hand, when it is determined that the model flag is not “Enable”, that is, “Disable” (S101: NO), the process proceeds to step S103.
[0038]
  In step S <b> 102, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to indicate that the printer (own device) that was operating as a model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time has joined the LAN 5. In order to notify the printer, a model printer participation notification is broadcast. Then, the process proceeds to step S103. However, other printers participating in the LAN 5 are also executing the setting process of FIGS. 3 and 4, and in the determination step of step S <b> 108 described later in the setting process being executed by the own device, broadcast in step S <b> 102. It is determined whether or not a notification of participation in the model printer is received.
[0039]
  That is, when the printer 2 that previously participated in the LAN 5 as a model printer (a printer that has been operating as a model printer) 2 again participates in the LAN 5 by the processing in the above-described steps S101 and S102, that fact participates in the LAN 5. It will be notified to other printers. However, even if the printer 2 that has not participated in the LAN 5 as a model printer participates in the LAN 5 again (S101: NO), notification to that effect is not performed.
[0040]
  In step S <b> 103, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is “Disable”. If it is determined that the model flag is “Disable” (S103: YES), the process proceeds to step S104. On the other hand, when it is determined that the model flag is not “Disable”, that is, “Enable” (S103: NO), the process proceeds to step S108.
[0041]
  If it is determined in the determination step of step S103 that the model flag is “Disable”, that is, it is not operating as a model printer (S103: YES), in step S104, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 and connected to the LAN 5. A process for confirming the existence of a printer operating as a model printer is performed, and the process proceeds to step S105. The process of step S104, for example, requests transmission of model flags to all the printers 2 participating in the LAN 5 (SNMP GET), and uses the value of the model flag acquired by a response (SNMP REPLY) to this. This can be done. Alternatively, the ping command can be executed using the IP address of a printer operating as a model printer, and whether or not there is a response to the ping command can be performed.
[0042]
  In step S105, the CPU 21 determines whether there is a printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5 based on the confirmation result in step S104. If it is determined that the model printer exists (S105: YES), the process proceeds to step S108. On the other hand, when it is determined that the model printer does not exist in the LAN 5 (S105: NO), the process proceeds to step S106.
[0043]
  Whether or not the processing of step S103 to step S105 can acquire the setting contents of the printer from the printer operating as the model printer based on the requested function when the printer 2 is not operating as the model printer. Equivalent to the process of determining.
[0044]
  In step S106, the CPU 21 changes the value of the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 from “Disable” to “Enable” so as to operate as a model printer. Then, the process proceeds to step S107. If it is determined that the setting contents of the printer cannot be acquired from the printer operating as a model printer based on the requested function (S105: NO), the process of step S106 operates as a model printer. Let(Normal setting method)This corresponds to a process for transmitting the setting contents of the own device in response to a request from another printer based on the response function..
[0045]
  Note that in a printer that has become operable with a model printer, the user can call the priority setting screen described above to change the priority of the printer from “Low” to “High” or from “High”. Set to “Low”.
[0046]
  In step S107, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer change notification (notification that the own device operates as a model printer) (extension of SNMP TRAP). Then, the process proceeds to step S108. The process of step S107 corresponds to a process of notifying a printer participating in the LAN 5 that the own device has been operated as a model printer (notification means). Note that the data to be broadcast is obtained by adding content indicating that the own device operates as a model printer to the SNMP TRAP, the IP address of the own device, and the like. However, the other printers participating in the LAN 5 are also executing the setting process of FIGS. 3 and 4, and are broadcast in step S107 in the determination step of step S122, which will be described later, of the setting process executed by the own device. It is determined whether or not a notification of the changed model printer has been received.
[0047]
  The printer 2 not operating as a model printer, which has detected that there is no printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5 by the processing of step S103 to step S106, subsequently operates as a model printer. Then, the printer 2 that has been operated as a model printer by the processing of step S107 notifies the other printers participating in the LAN 5 that the own device has been operated as a model printer. To do.
[0048]
  In step S108, the CPU 21 notifies the model printer participation via the interface 27 (if the printer operating as the model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time participates in the LAN 5 again, the setting process of FIGS. 3 and 4 is performed. It is determined whether or not the model printer participation notification broadcast in step S102 of the started setting process has been received. If it is determined that the model printer participation notification has been received (S108: YES), the process proceeds to step S109. On the other hand, when it is determined that the model printer participation notification has not been received (S108: NO), the process proceeds to step S116.
[0049]
  In step S109, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is “Enable”. If it is determined that the model flag is “Enable” (S109: YES), the process proceeds to step S110. On the other hand, when it is determined that the model flag is not “Enable”, that is, “Disable” (S109: NO), the process proceeds to step S116.
[0050]
  In other words, the processing in steps S108 to S109 described above causes the printer 2 that is currently operating as a model printer to request the setting contents of the printer from the printer that was operating as the model printer before operating as the model printer. Corresponds to processing to determine whether or not it can be acquired again based on the function.
[0051]
  In step S110, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to request the printer that has received the model printer participation notification received in step S109 to transmit a priority value (High or Low) (SNMP). GET), the process proceeds to step S111. This request includes the priority (High or Low) stored in the NVRAM 24 of the printer 2 that made the priority transmission request. In response to this request, the printer that has notified the participation of the model printer is controlled by the CPU, and stored in the NVRAM of the own device by the processing of steps S116 and S117 described later of the setting process executed by the own device. The priority value (High or Low) is transmitted (SNMP REPLY).
[0052]
  In step S <b> 111, the CPU 21 receives the priority of the printer from the printer that has notified the model printer participation via the interface 27. Then, the process proceeds to step S112.
[0053]
  In step S112, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the priority of the partner printer (original model printer) that has notified the model printer participation is higher than the priority stored in the NVRAM 24 of its own device (current model printer). judge. If it is determined that the priority of the other party is high (S112: YES), the process proceeds to step S113. On the other hand, if it is not determined that the other party's priority is high (S112: NO), it continues to operate as a model printer.(Priority order setting means)The process proceeds to step S116.
[0054]
  In step S113, the CPU 21 changes the value of the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 from “Enable” to “Disable” so as not to operate as a model printer. When the priority is “High”, the CPU 21 sets “Low”. Make(Priority order setting means). Then, the process proceeds to step S114.
[0055]
  The printer 2 currently operating as a model printer that has received the notification of participation in the model printer by the processing in steps S110 to S113 described above determines the priority of the printer with respect to the printer that has notified the participation of the model printer. If the priority of the printer on the other side that requested transmission and notified the participation of the model printer is higher than the priority of its own device, the model flag is changed from "Enable" to "Disable" and it does not operate as a model printer. To do.In this case, the counterpart printer (the printer that has notified the participation of the model printer) will subsequently operate as a model printer.
  On the other hand, if the priority of the own device is higher than or equal to the priority of the counterpart printer, it continues to operate as a model printer. In this case, the partner printer prevents the own device from operating as a model printer by the processing in steps S118 and S119 described later of the setting process executed by the own device.
[0056]
  In step S114, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to transmit the setting contents of its own device to the printer that has been notified of participation in the model printer (hereinafter, a printer that operates as a model printer) (SNMP SET). The process proceeds to S115. However, the printer 2 that has notified the participation of the model printer determines whether or not the setting content transmitted in step S114 has been received in the determination step of step S120, which will be described later, of the setting process executed by the own device. become.
[0057]
  When the above-described processing in step S114 prevents the own device from operating as a model printer (S113), the printer that previously operated as the model printer for the setting contents of the own device (notification of participation in the model printer has been performed) This corresponds to processing for transmission to a printer.
[0058]
  In step S115, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to notify the model printer change (the fact that the own device has stopped operating as a model printer, and the printer that has notified the model printer participation will operate as a model printer thereafter. Broadcast) (extension of SNMP TRAP). Then, the process proceeds to step S116. However, whether the other printers 2 participating in the LAN 5 have received the notification of the model printer change broadcast in step S115 in the determination step of step S122, which will be described later, of the setting process executed by the own device. It will be judged.
[0059]
  In step S116, the CPU 21 sends a priority transmission request from the printer currently operating as the model printer via the interface 27 (performed in step S110 of the setting process executed by the printer currently operating as the model printer). It is determined whether a transmission request is received. If it is determined that a priority transmission request has been received (S116: YES), the process proceeds to step S117. On the other hand, when it is determined that a priority transmission request has not been received (S116: NO), the process proceeds to step S120. Note that the printer 2 that receives the priority transmission request in step S116 is the printer that broadcasts the notification of model printer participation, in other words, the printer that was operating as a model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time.
[0060]
  In step S117, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 and transmits the priority value (High or Low) stored in the NVRAM 24 to the request source (the printer currently operating as a model printer) (SNMP). REPLY). Then, the process proceeds to step S118. However, the printer currently operating as the model printer receives the priority transmitted in step S117 in the above-described step S111 of the setting process being executed by the own device.
[0061]
  In step S118, the CPU 21 determines that the priority stored in the NVRAM 24 of the own device (the printer that has notified the model printer participation: the original model printer) is the other printer (current model printer) currently operating as the model printer. ) (The priority is included in the priority transmission request received in step S116). If it is determined that the device itself is higher (S118: YES), then it operates as a model printer.(Priority order setting means)The process proceeds to step S120. On the other hand, when it is not determined that the own device is higher (S118: NO), the process proceeds to step S119. In this embodiment, the model flag is set to “Enable” even when the power is turned off and turned on again while operating as a model printer, or when it is disconnected from the LAN 5 and connected to the LAN 5 again. "It is designed to hold on.
[0062]
  In step S119, the CPU 21 changes the value of the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 from “Enable” to “Disable” so that it does not operate as a model printer. If the priority is “High”, the CPU 21 sets “Low”. Make(Priority order setting means). Then, the process proceeds to step S120.
[0063]
  As a result of the processing in steps S118 to S119 described above, the printer 2 that has been operating as a model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time has the priority of its own device that is currently operating as a model printer ( If the priority is not higher than the priority of the printer that made the transmission request of the priority, the model flag is changed from “Enable” to “Disable” so that the printer does not become a model printer. In this case, the printer currently operating as the model printer continues to operate as the model printer.
  On the other hand, when the priority of the own device is higher than the priority of the counterpart printer, the model flag is kept “Enable” and the printer is subsequently operated as a model printer. In this case, the printer that is currently operating as a model printer is prevented from operating as a model printer by the processing in step S113 described above of the setting processing that is being executed by the device itself.
[0064]
  In step S120, the CPU 21 starts from the printer that has made the priority transmission request (the printer that has stopped operating as the model printer in step S113 of the setting process executed by the device itself: hereinafter referred to as the old model printer as appropriate). It is determined whether or not setting contents (setting contents transmitted in step S114 of the setting process executed by the old model printer) are received via the interface 27. If it is determined that the setting content has been received from the old model printer (S120: YES), the process proceeds to step S121. On the other hand, when it is determined that the setting content has not been received (S120: NO), the process proceeds to step S122.
[0065]
  In step S121, the CPU 21 updates the setting content stored in the NVRAM 24 to the setting content received in step S120. As a result, when the printer 2 that was operating as a model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time participates in the LAN 5 again and the priority of its own device is higher than the priority of the old model printer, it is stored in the NVRAM 24. The setting contents are updated to the setting contents of the old model printer.
[0066]
  In step S122, the CPU 21 notifies the model printer change via the interface 27 (the model printer change notification broadcast in step S107 of the setting process executed by the printer that has become operable as the model printer, and the model printer. It is determined whether or not a model printer change notification broadcast in step S115 of the setting process executed by the printer that has stopped operating is received. If it is determined that the model printer change notification has been received (S122: YES), the process proceeds to step S123. On the other hand, if it is determined that the model printer change notification has not been received (S122: NO), the process proceeds to step S124.
[0067]
  In step S123, the CPU 21 stores, in the NVRAM 24, the IP address and the like of the printer that operates as a model printer thereafter, based on the model printer change notification received in step S122. Then, the process proceeds to step S124. As a result, the printer 2 can grasp a printer that operates as a model printer thereafter.
[0068]
  In step S124, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is “Disable”. If it is determined that the model flag is “Disable” (S124: YES), the process proceeds to step S125. On the other hand, if it is determined that the model flag is not “Disable”, that is, “Enable” (S124: NO), the process proceeds to step S128.
[0069]
  In step S125, the CPU 21 determines whether or not the automatic setting flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is “Enable”. If it is determined that the automatic setting flag is “Enable” (S125: YES), the process proceeds to step S126. On the other hand, when it is determined that the automatic setting flag is not “Enable”, that is, “Disable” (S125: NO), the process proceeds to step S128.
[0070]
  In step S126, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 and requests the printer operating as a model printer by unicast to transmit the setting contents (SNMP GET). Then, the process proceeds to step S127.
[0071]
  In step S127, the CPU 21 transmits the setting contents transmitted by the printer operating as the model printer via the interface 27 (settings transmitted in step S129 described later in the setting process executed by the printer operating as the model printer). Content) is received, and the setting content stored in the NVRAM 24 of the own device is updated based on the received setting content. Then, the process proceeds to step S128.
[0072]
  That is, the printer 2 is not operating as a model printer (S124: YES), and is set to update the setting contents of its own device based on the setting contents of the model printer (S125: YES). Requesting the printer operating as the model printer to transmit the setting contents (S126), acquiring the setting contents of the printer operating as the model printer, and setting the own device based on the acquired setting contents The contents are updated (S127).
[0073]
  In step S128, the CPU 21 sends a setting content transmission request via the interface 27 (the setting performed in step S126 of the setting process executed by the printer whose model flag is “Disable” and automatic setting flag is “Enable”). It is determined whether or not (content transmission request) has been received. If it is determined that a transmission request for setting contents has been received (S128: YES), the process proceeds to step S129. On the other hand, if it is determined that a transmission request for setting contents has not been received (S128: NO), the process returns to step S103.
[0074]
  In step S129, the printer 2 is controlled by the CPU 21 to send back the setting contents stored in the NVRAM 24 to the request source (the printer that made the transmission request for the setting contents) (SNMP REPLY). However, the printer that has made a transmission request for setting contents receives the setting contents transmitted in step S129 in step S127 of the setting process being executed by the own device.
[0075]
  That is, the printer 2 operating as a model printer that has received the transmission request for the setting content returns the setting content of the own device to the request source (S128: YES, S129).
[0076]
  Hereinafter, an operation sequence example of the printer 2 in the setting system 1 described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 4 will be described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6. 5 and 6 are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation sequence in the setting system 1. 5 and 6 are examples of operations based on the flowcharts shown in FIGS.
[0077]
  First, FIG. 5 will be described. However, it is detected that there is no printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5, and the printer that has started to operate as a model printer is designated as the printer 2a. This printer is designated as printer 2b. Further, it is assumed that the priority of the printer 2b is higher than the priority of the printer 2a.
[0078]
  The printer 2b operating as a model printer is disconnected from the LAN 5 by, for example, being powered off or removed from the LAN 5 (S201).
[0079]
  The printer 2a not operating as a model printer (the model flag is “Disable”) is controlled by the CPU 21 to confirm the presence of a printer operating as a model printer on the LAN 5 (S202: executed by the printer 2a). Corresponding to the process of S104 in the setting process). However, since the printer 2b is disconnected from the LAN 5, it cannot communicate with the printer 2a.
[0080]
  The printer 2a cannot confirm the existence of a printer operating as a model printer on the LAN 5, and determines that there is no model printer (S203: equivalent to NO in S105 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a).
  Subsequently, since there is no printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5, the printer 2a changes the model flag from “Disable” to “Enable” and operates the own device as a model printer (S204: executed by the printer 2a). Equivalent to S106 in the setting process).
[0081]
  The printer 2a is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer change notification (notification that the printer 2a will be operated as a model printer thereafter) (S205: equivalent to S107 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a).
[0082]
  The printer 2b operating as a model printer before disconnecting from the LAN 5 joins the LAN 5 (S206).
[0083]
  The printer 2b is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer participation notification (S207: equivalent to S102 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b).
[0084]
  When the printer 2a receives the notification of participation of the model printer (corresponding to YES in S108 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), the model flag of its own device is “Enable” in the process of step S204. (Corresponding to YES in S109 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), a priority transmission request is made by unicast to the printer 2b (S208: S110 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a). Equivalent). However, this transmission request includes the priority of the printer 2a.
[0085]
  When the printer 2b receives a priority transmission request from the printer 2a (corresponding to YES in S116 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b), the printer 2b is controlled by the CPU 21 to set the priority of the printer 2b as the requesting printer. (S209: equivalent to S117 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b).
[0086]
  The printer 2a receives the priority of the printer 2b from the printer 2b (corresponding to S111 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), and the CPU 21 of the printer 2a determines that the received priority of the printer 2b is the priority of the printer 2a. It is determined that the model flag is higher, and the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 is changed from “Enable” to “Disable” (S210: corresponding to YES and S113 in S112 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a). As a result, the printer 2a does not operate as a model printer.
[0087]
  The CPU 21 of the printer 2b determines that the priority of the printer 2b is higher than the priority of the printer 2a (corresponding to YES of 118 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b), and the printer 2b is to operate as a model printer thereafter. (S211).
[0088]
  The printer 2a that has become inoperable as a model printer in the process of step S210 is controlled by the CPU 21 to transmit the setting contents of the own device stored in the NVRAM 24 to the printer 2b (S212: executed by the printer 2a). Equivalent to S114 of the setting process).
[0089]
  When the printer 2b receives the setting contents of the printer 2a from the printer 2a, the CPU 21 of the printer 2b updates the setting contents stored in the NVRAM 24 to the setting contents received from the printer 2a (S213: executed by the printer 2b). This corresponds to YES in S120 of the setting process and S121).
[0090]
  The printer 2a is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer change notification (including that the printer 2a is no longer operating as a model printer and that the printer 2b is subsequently operating as a model printer) (see FIG. S214: Corresponding to S115 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a).
[0091]
  Next, FIG. 6 will be described. Detecting that there is no printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5, the printer that has started to operate as a model printer is designated as the printer 2a, and the printer that was operating as a model printer when participating in the LAN 5 last time Is the printer 2b. Further, it is assumed that the priority of the printer 2b is lower than or equal to the priority of the printer 2a.
[0092]
  The printer 2b operating as a model printer is disconnected from the LAN 5 by, for example, being powered off or removed from the LAN 5 (S301).
[0093]
  The printer 2a not operating as a model printer (the model flag is “Disable”) is controlled by the CPU 21 to confirm the presence of a printer operating as a model printer on the LAN 5 (S302: executed by the printer 2a). Corresponding to the process of S104 in the setting process). However, since the printer 2b is disconnected from the LAN 5, it cannot communicate with the printer 2a.
[0094]
  The printer 2a cannot confirm the existence of a printer operating as a model printer on the LAN 5, and determines that there is no model printer (S303: equivalent to S105 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a).
  Subsequently, since there is no printer operating as a model printer in the LAN 5, the printer 2a changes the model flag from “Disable” to “Enable” and operates the own device as a model printer (S304: executed by the printer 2a). Equivalent to S106 in the setting process).
[0095]
  The printer 2a is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer change notification (notification that the printer 2a will operate as a model printer thereafter) (S305: equivalent to S107 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a).
[0096]
  The printer 2b operating as a model printer before disconnecting from the LAN 5 joins the LAN 5 (S306).
[0097]
  The printer 2b is controlled by the CPU 21 to broadcast a model printer participation notification (S307: equivalent to S102 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b).
[0098]
  When the printer 2a receives the notification of participation of the model printer (corresponding to YES in S108 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), the model flag of its own device is “Enable” in the process of step S304. From (corresponding to YES in S109 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), a priority transmission request is made by unicast to the printer 2b (S308: S110 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a). Equivalent). However, this transmission request includes the priority of the printer 2a.
[0099]
  When the printer 2b receives a priority transmission request from the printer 2a (corresponding to YES in S116 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b), the printer 2b is controlled by the CPU 21 to set the priority of the printer 2b as the requesting printer. (S309: equivalent to S117 of the setting process executed by the printer 2b).
[0100]
  The printer 2a receives the priority of the printer 2b from the printer 2b (corresponding to S111 of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), and the CPU 21 of the printer 2a determines that the received priority of the printer 2b is the priority of the printer 2a. It is determined that it is not higher (corresponding to S112: NO of the setting process executed by the printer 2a), and it operates as a model printer as it is.
[0101]
  The CPU 21 of the printer 2b determines that the priority of the printer 2b is not higher than the priority of the printer 2a, and changes the model flag stored in the NVRAM 24 of the printer 2b from “Enable” to “Disable” (S310: Printer 2b). Is equivalent to 118 of the setting process being executed, S119). As a result, the printer 2b does not operate as a model printer.
[0102]
  As explained above,When it is detected that a printer operating as a model printer does not exist in the LAN 5, the printer 2 (normal setting means) operates its own device as a model printer. Further, when it is detected that a printer operating as a model printer exists in the LAN 5, the printer 2 (priority setting means) operates as either a model printer based on the priority of the model printer or its own device. To do. For this reason, it becomes possible to prevent a printer operating as a model printer from being present in the LAN 5 for a long time. Furthermore, since the priority order of the printers 2 to become new model printers is operated as a model printer when the priority order of the printers 2 is higher than or equal to the priority order of the printers 2, the priority order of each printer is High Or Low of 2 It is easy to set priorities for operating as a model printer.
[0103]
  Further, the printer 2 which detects that the model printer does not exist in the LAN 5 and operates its own device as a model printer is notified of the model printer change (the fact that the own device has been operated as a model printer). Notification) is broadcast, so that other printers connected to the LAN 5 can take appropriate measures against the change of the model printer. For example, even when the model printer is changed, the printer 2 is not set to a printer that has previously been operated as a model printer, but a printer that has been newly operated as a model printer. Content requests can be made.
[0104]
  Further, if a printer (original model printer) that was operating as a model printer when it participated in the LAN 5 last time participates in the LAN 5 again, the printer that operates as a model printer after that is used as the current model using the priority. Since either the printer operating as the printer (current model printer) or the original model printer is used, it is possible to prevent a state where two model printers exist on the LAN 5.
[0105]
  In addition, the settings of the printer that no longer operates as a model printer (old model printer) are sent to the printer that newly operates as a model printer (new model printer: the printer that was the original model printer) For example, even when the setting contents of the old model printer are updated by the user, the new model printer can provide the latest setting contents changed by the user to other printers.
[0106]
  The preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above. However, the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various design changes can be made as long as they are described in the claims. . For example, in this embodiment, the priority is used to determine which of the printer currently operating as a model printer (current model printer) and the printer that was previously operating as a model printer (original model printer) is a subsequent model. Although it is determined whether to operate as a printer, it is not limited to this. For example, the current model printer may be continuously operated as a model printer, and the original model printer may not be operated as a model printer. In this case, the model printer is not frequently switched, and the load on the entire LAN 5 can be reduced. Alternatively, the original model printer may always be operated as a model printer, and the current model printer may not be operated as a model printer. In this case, since the setting contents can be managed with almost the same printer, the management becomes easy.
[0107]
  In the above embodiment, the priority values are “High” and “Low”. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and the priority value may be the time when the set content is updated (changed). In this case, for example, the newer time may be given higher priority. Further, the priority value may be set as the number of setting contents, and in this case, for example, the higher the setting number may be set as the higher priority.
[0108]
  Further, in the above embodiment, when the printer 2 that was operating as a model printer when participating in the LAN 5 last time participates in the LAN 5, a notification of participation in the model printer is broadcast, and the printer currently operating as the model printer. 2 determines whether it is possible to receive setting contents from a printer that has been operating as a model printer before, depending on whether or not a broadcast notification of participation in the model printer is received. Not limited to this. For example, the printer 2 that is currently operating as a model printer periodically checks for the presence of a printer that has previously operated as a model printer (this confirmation can be realized, for example, by executing an SNMP GET or ping command). Alternatively, it may be determined whether or not the setting contents can be received from a printer that has been operated as a model printer before.
[0109]
  Further, the setting process of the above-described embodiment may be such that there is one printer operating as a model printer for each model or each vendor, for example. This can be realized by including the model name and the vendor name in the MIB.
[0110]
  Furthermore, in the above-described embodiment, the printer has been described as an example. However, processing substantially similar to the setting processing in the above-described embodiment may be applied to other electronic devices such as a scanner.
[0111]
  Furthermore, a program for executing the setting process described in the above embodiments may be recorded on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM.
[0112]
【The invention's effect】
  Claim 1, claim4, Claims5according to,When the setting contents of the electronic device cannot be acquired from the electronic device (or computer) operating as the model device, the normal setting means operates itself as the model device.The Also,When the setting contents of the electronic device can be acquired from the electronic device (or computer) operating as the model device, the priority setting unit selects one of the electronic devices based on the electronic device and its own priority. Is operated as a model device. For this reason, it is possible to prevent a situation in which there is no electronic device (or computer) operating as a model device on the network. Further, the priority order setting means operates the electronic device that becomes the new model device as the model device when the priority order of the electronic device that becomes the new model device is higher than or equal to the priority order of the model device. The priority of each electronic device High Or Low of 2 As a result, it is easy to set priorities for operating as model equipment.
[0113]
  Claim2According to the above, it is possible to eliminate the state where two model devices exist on the network, and to operate an electronic device that was previously operated as a model device as a model device. Since the devices exist, the system administrator can easily manage the settings of the electronic devices.
[0114]
  Claim3According to, the electronic device that was set by the administrator while the electronic device that was previously operating as a model device does not exist on the network (for example, when it was disconnected from the network or turned off) The administrator does not need to perform the setting contents again on the electronic device that has been operated as the model device, thereby reducing the burden on the administrator.
[0115]
  Claims4According to this, two model devices do not operate on the network. In addition, since electronic devices that were previously operating as model devices are not operated as model devices (the electronic devices that are currently operating as model devices are continuously operated as model devices) It is possible to prevent a situation where the processing load of the entire system increases due to frequent switching.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a setting system in an embodiment of the present invention.
2 is a diagram showing a device configuration of devices (printer, personal computer) constituting the setting system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
FIG. 3 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of setting processing performed by a printer configuring the setting system shown in FIG. 1;
4 is a flowchart showing an operation flow of setting processing performed by a printer constituting the setting system shown in FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of an operation sequence in setting processing of the setting system shown in FIG. 1;
6 is a diagram showing an example of an operation sequence in setting processing of the setting system shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
[Explanation of symbols]
  1 Setting system
  2 Printer
  3 Personal computer
  4 routers
  5 LAN
  21, 31 CPU
  22, 32 ROM
  23, 33 RAM
  24 NVRAM
  25 Operation panel
  26 Printing section
  27, 37 interface
  34 HDD
  35 Operation unit
  36 display section

Claims (5)

A plurality of functions having a request function for requesting an electronic device operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and a response function for transmitting the setting contents of the own device when there is the request from another electronic device In a setting system for setting an electronic device not operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device. There,
The electronic device is
When own electronic apparatus is not operating as a model device, obtains the settings of the electronic device from the electronic device as a model instrument running as a model instrument based on the desired function, to run self as a model instrument For,
A notification means for notifying the other electronic device connected to the network of a message indicating that the electronic device operates as a model device when the electronic device is connected to the network;
When the model device responding to the message of the notification means does not exist, normal setting means for setting the electronic device as a model device;
When the model device responding to the message from the notification means exists, the priority order between the electronic device operating as the model device and the own electronic device is confirmed, and the priority order of the own electronic device is Priority setting means for causing the electronic device to operate as the model device when higher than or equal to the priority of the electronic device operating as the model device ;
A setting system characterized by comprising: When an electronic device that has been operating as a model device before operating itself as a model device by the normal setting unit or the priority order setting unit resumes operation, the priority setting unit does not operate as a model device. The setting system according to claim 1, wherein the electronic device that has been operated as the model device before is operated as the model device. The electronic device further includes transmission means for transmitting the setting contents of the own device to the electronic device previously operated as the model device when the electronic device is not operated as the model device by the priority order setting means. And
The setting system according to claim 2 , wherein the electronic device that has been operating as the model device before updates the setting content of the own device based on the setting content transmitted by the transmission unit. A plurality of functions having a request function for requesting an electronic device operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and a response function for transmitting the setting contents of the own device when there is the request from another electronic device A setting system configured to set an electronic device not operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device. An electronic device comprising:
The electronic device is
When the own electronic device is not operating as a model device, the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device are acquired from the electronic device as the model device based on the requested function, and the device is operated as the model device. for
A notification means for notifying the other electronic device connected to the network of a message indicating that the electronic device operates as a model device when the electronic device is connected to the network;
When the model device responding to the message of the notification means does not exist, normal setting means for setting the electronic device as a model device;
When the model device responding to the message from the notification means exists , the priority order between the electronic device operating as the model device and the own electronic device is confirmed, and the priority order of the own electronic device is Priority setting means for causing the electronic device to operate as the model device when higher than or equal to the priority of the electronic device operating as the model device;
An electronic device characterized by comprising: A plurality of computers having a request function for requesting a computer operating as a model device to transmit setting contents and a response function for transmitting the setting contents of the own device when there is a request from another computer Are communicably connected via a network, and a computer constituting a setting system configured to set a computer not operating as the model device based on the setting contents of the computer operating as the model device,
When the own electronic device is not operating as a model device, the setting contents of the electronic device operating as the model device are acquired from the electronic device as the model device based on the requested function, and the device is operated as the model device. for
A notification means for notifying a message indicating that the electronic device operates as a model device to another electronic device connected to the network when the electronic device is connected to the network;
Normal setting means for setting the electronic device as a model device when the model device responding to the message from the notification means does not exist;
When the model device responding to the message from the notification means exists, the priority order between the electronic device operating as the model device and the own electronic device is confirmed, and the priority order of the own electronic device is Priority setting means for causing the electronic device to operate as the model device when the priority is higher than or equal to the priority of the electronic device operating as the model device;
A program characterized by functioning as

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