JP4194173B2 - Management server, data processing device, output device, data processing method, and storage medium storing computer-readable program - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a management server, a data processing device, an output device, a data processing method, and a computer that communicate with a data processing device functioning as a file server and a plurality of output devices via a predetermined communication medium and manage the entire system. The present invention relates to a storage medium storing a possible program.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventional network printer systems that store images from input devices such as scanners and digital cameras, and image data created by the host computer as files, and process or edit the image data on the client side for output are used on a network. And a client host (which may also serve as a server) that instructs data output to the output device and data transmission to the file.
[0003]
In such a system, when network printing is performed by operation from a client host, the file address of the file server, file format such as image resolution / color space / compression, file name, etc. are input / set from the client operation unit. The printer started printing.
[0004]
Also, when starting network printing by operating from a network printer, enter / set the client host's network address, image resolution / color space / compression file format, file name, etc. from the network printer's operation unit and transfer The network address of the previous network printer is set and the standby state for file capture is ensured, and then an instruction to start printing of an original is given by the operation unit of the network printer.
[0005]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
For this reason, in the case of a network having a plurality of file servers and a plurality of printers, there is a problem that the file server designation or the printer designation on the client host or the printer becomes complicated and the usability becomes very bad. It was.
[0006]
In addition, in order to specify the file server and set the file format on the printer, the printer operation unit needs a number of key input means and a display unit for viewing abundant information, which increases the cost of the printer. There was a problem such as.
[0007]
The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to output a plurality of files managed by each data processing device or each output device to a data processing device functioning as a file server. When output is performed by any of the devices, the transfer path information corresponding to the combination of each data processing device and each output device is generated and managed by the management server, and each data processing device acquires the transfer path information. By displaying the acquired transfer path information and selecting an input / output device, the complicated operation panel setting or user interface necessary for outputting the desired file to be stored is not required, and the operation is very simple. A management server that can determine the input / output device selected in step 1 and transfer the output information according to the transfer path information to the specified output device, and Over data processing and output devices and a data processing method and a computer is to provide a storage medium storing a readable program.
[0008]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
A first invention according to the present invention includes a data processing device (including the client host 102 shown in FIG. 1) functioning as a file server and a plurality of output devices (FIG. 1) via a communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). 4 is a management server that manages the entire system by communicating with the network printer 104 shown in FIG. 4, and obtains unique resource information from the data processing device or a plurality of output devices (device profile acquisition shown in FIG. 4). Unit 407), a first storage unit (device profile database 404 shown in FIG. 4) for storing the resource information acquired by the acquisition unit, and the resource information stored by the first storage unit. Generation means for generating a plurality of transfer path information for specifying an output device (transfer path profile generation shown in FIG. 4) 409), second storage means (transfer path profile database 405 shown in FIG. 4) for storing a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generating means, and transfer paths from the data processing apparatus or each output apparatus Supply means (transfer path profile supply unit 408 shown in FIG. 4) for supplying a plurality of the transfer path information stored by the second storage means to the data processing device or each output device based on an information request Is.
[0009]
The second invention according to the present invention can communicate with a plurality of output devices and a management server (management server 103 shown in FIG. 1) that manages the entire system via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A data processing apparatus having a file server function, wherein the first supply means (device shown in FIG. 2) supplies unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the management server. Profile supply unit 206) and acquisition means for acquiring a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which the file is transferred (see FIG. 2) A transfer path profile acquisition unit 207) and a selection for selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means And control means for controlling the input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection means (the CPU 201 shown in FIG. The stored control program is executed, for example, a file managed in the hard disk 204 is read, an output image meeting the output conditions of the selected output device is generated, and transfer control is performed).
[0010]
A third invention according to the present invention is an output device capable of communicating with a management server for managing the entire system and a data processing device functioning as a file server via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A first supply unit (device profile supply unit 306 shown in FIG. 3) for supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing apparatus; and the data processing Acquiring means for acquiring a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server from the data processing device for specifying an input / output device to which a file managed by the device is to be transferred (transfer shown in FIG. 3) Path profile acquisition unit 307) and selection for selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means (Control panel 308 shown in FIG. 3) and control means for controlling the input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection means (CPU 302 stores a control program stored in ROM 304, memory not shown). Control the input / output operation of the input / output device).
[0011]
According to a fourth aspect of the present invention, the acquisition means (the transfer path profile acquisition unit 207 shown in FIG. 2) is configured to specify the input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. Transfer path information related to its own device among a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored by the server is acquired from the data processing device.
[0012]
According to a fifth aspect of the present invention, the acquisition means (the transfer path profile acquisition unit 307 shown in FIG. 3) is configured to specify the input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. Transfer path information related to its own device among a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored by the server is acquired from the data processing device.
[0013]
According to a sixth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a second storage means for storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means (stored in a specific area secured on the hard disk 204 shown in FIG. 2). And the selection means selects desired transfer path information from among a plurality of transfer path information stored by the storage means.
[0014]
According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a second storage means for storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means (a specific area secured on the RAM 303 shown in FIG. 3 or a non-volatile storage device not shown). The selection means selects desired transfer path information from among a plurality of transfer path information stored by the storage means.
[0015]
According to an eighth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a management server for managing the entire system by communicating with a data processing device functioning as a file server and a plurality of output devices via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A data processing method, an acquisition step (step S701 shown in FIG. 7) for acquiring unique resource information from the data processing device or a plurality of output devices, and the resource information acquired by the acquisition step in a storage device A first storage step (step S703 shown in FIG. 7) to be stored, and a generation step (illustrated) for generating a plurality of transfer path information for specifying input / output devices from the resource information stored in the first storage step And a second storage step (step not shown) for storing a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generation step in the storage device A supply step of supplying a plurality of transfer path information stored in the second storage step to the data processing device or each output device based on a transfer path information request from the data processing device or each output device (FIG. Steps S1101 to S1105) shown in FIG.
[0016]
According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing apparatus having a file server function capable of communicating with a plurality of output devices and a management server that manages the entire system via a predetermined communication medium (the network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A data processing method, a first supply process (steps S901 to S903 shown in FIG. 10) for supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the management server; An acquisition step (steps S1401 to S1403 shown in FIG. 15) for acquiring, from the management server, a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored by the management server in order to specify an input / output device to which the file is to be transferred. And a selecting step (shown) for selecting desired transfer path information from among a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition step. And have step), and has an execution step of executing the input and output operations of the input and output devices (not shown step) according to a transfer path information that has been selected by said selecting step.
[0017]
According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided data processing in an output device capable of communicating with a management server that manages the entire system and a data processing device that functions as a file server via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A first supply step (steps S901 to S903 shown in FIG. 10) for supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing device; An acquisition step of acquiring a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server from the data processing device in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing device is to be transferred (FIG. 15). Steps S1401 to S1403) shown in FIG. 5 and a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition process. A selection step of selecting information (not shown step), and has an execution step of executing the input and output operations of the input and output devices (not shown step) according to a transfer path information that has been selected by said selecting step.
[0018]
In an eleventh aspect of the present invention, the acquisition step (steps S1401 to S1403 shown in FIG. 15) is performed by the management server to specify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. Transfer path information related to the own device among a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored is acquired from the data processing device.
[0019]
A twelfth aspect of the present invention includes a second storage step (step not shown) for storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired in the acquisition step in a storage device, and the selection step includes the storage device The desired transfer path information is selected from the plurality of transfer path information stored in the above.
[0020]
According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a management server that manages the entire system by communicating with a data processing device functioning as a file server and a plurality of output devices via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A storage medium storing a program readable by a computer to be controlled, wherein an acquisition step (step S701 shown in FIG. 7) for acquiring unique resource information from the data processing device or a plurality of output devices, and the acquisition step A first storage step (step S703 shown in FIG. 7) for storing the acquired resource information in a storage device, and a transfer for specifying an input / output device from the resource information stored in the first storage step A generation process (not shown) for generating a plurality of path information, and a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generation process is stored in the memory A plurality of transfer path information items stored in the second storage step based on a second storage step (step not shown) stored in a storage device and a transfer path information request from the data processing device or each output device. A computer-readable program having a supply process (steps S1101 to S1105 shown in FIG. 12) supplied to the data processing device or each output device is stored in a storage medium.
[0021]
According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing device having a file server function capable of communicating with a plurality of output devices and a management server that manages the entire system via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A storage medium storing a program that can be read by a computer to be controlled, and a first supply step of supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the management server ( Steps S901 to S903) shown in FIG. 10 and an acquisition step of acquiring from the management server a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to specify the input / output device to which the file is to be transferred (Steps S1401 to S1403 shown in FIG. 15) and whether the transfer path information is acquired in the acquisition process. A computer having a selection process (not shown) for selecting desired transfer path information and an execution process (not shown) for executing an input / output operation of an input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection process. A readable program is stored in a storage medium.
[0022]
The fifteenth aspect of the present invention controls an output device capable of communicating with a management server that manages the entire system and a data processing device that functions as a file server via a predetermined communication medium (network 101 shown in FIG. 1). A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, a first supply step (FIG. 1) for supplying unique resource information stored on the basis of a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing device Steps S901 to S903) shown in FIG. 10 and a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored by the management server to specify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred Acquisition process acquired from the processing apparatus (steps S1401 to S1403 shown in FIG. 15) and the acquisition process A selection process (not shown) for selecting desired transfer path information from the plurality of transfer path information, and an execution process for executing an input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection process ( And a computer-readable program having a process (not shown) stored in a storage medium.
[0023]
According to a sixteenth aspect of the present invention, the acquisition step (steps S1401 to S1403 shown in FIG. 15) is performed by the management server to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. A computer-readable program for acquiring transfer path information related to the own machine among a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored from the data processing apparatus is stored in a storage medium.
[0024]
A seventeenth aspect of the present invention includes a second storage step (step not shown) for storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired in the acquisition step in a storage device, and the selection step includes the storage device A computer-readable program for selecting desired transfer path information from among a plurality of transfer path information stored in the above is stored in a storage medium.
[0025]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating the configuration of a network system to which the data processing apparatus according to the first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.
[0026]
In the figure, reference numeral 101 denotes a network using a known technique for connecting devices, and in this embodiment, it is assumed that Ethernet is used using a TCP / IP protocol as a protocol.
[0027]
A client host 102 includes a network interface and functions as a file server that receives and files image data sent via the network interface. A management server 103 stores configuration information (hereinafter referred to as a transfer path profile) when configuring a virtual MFP (file & network & printer device) by a combination of the client host 102 and the network printer 104. A transfer path profile is provided at the request of the printer device. The management server 13 is usually realized by installing server software in a personal computer or workstation.
[0028]
A network printer 104 includes a network interface, receives print data and image data sent via the network 101, and actually prints on a medium using a printing technique such as an electrophotographic technique.
[0029]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the client host 102 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG.
[0030]
In the figure, reference numeral 201 denotes a CPU which controls various devices connected to the internal bus and accesses to execute various data processing. A RAM 202 temporarily stores work storage information, a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 201, and image data. The RAM 202 is configured such that its capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM or the like.
[0031]
A ROM 203 stores a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 201. A hard disk (HD) 204 files image data sent via the network interface (network I / F) 205.
[0032]
A device profile supply unit 206 transmits device information of the network printer 102 to the management server 103. A transfer path profile acquisition unit 207 acquires a transfer path profile from the management server 103 and stores information in the RAM 202. An operation panel 208 corresponds to a keyboard and a pointing device (mouse), and is used to operate a user interface on a screen of a CRT device (not shown). For example, when desired transfer path information is selected from a plurality of transfer path information acquired from the management server 103, a user interface as shown in FIG. 16 is displayed so that the user can select a transfer path intended by the user. Has been.
[0033]
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the network printer 104 shown in FIG.
[0034]
In the figure, reference numeral 301 denotes a printer engine, which is composed of, for example, an electrophotographic or in-jet printer, and can be connected to an optional unit (not shown). Reference numeral 302 denotes a CPU that executes overall control by executing a control program stored in the ROM 304 to access each device connected to the internal bus.
[0035]
A network I / F 305 performs communication control with the management server 103 and the client host 102 via the network 101 using a predetermined protocol. A device profile supply unit 306 transmits device information unique to the network printer 104 to the management server 103.
[0036]
A transfer path profile acquisition unit 307 acquires a transfer path profile from the management server 103 and stores information in the RAM 303. An operation panel 308 includes a display device such as a liquid crystal display and an LED and a plurality of operation buttons in order to provide a user I / F. The RAM 303 is configured such that its capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM (not shown).
[0037]
FIG. 4 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the management server 103 shown in FIG.
[0038]
In the figure, 401 is a CPU which controls the operation of the entire server by executing a control program stored in a storage medium (not shown). A RAM 402 stores work storage information and a program for controlling the operation of the CPU 401. The RAM 402 is configured such that its capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM (not shown).
[0039]
A device profile database 404 stores device profiles of devices connected to the network 101. A transfer path profile database 405 stores a transfer path profile generated from the device profile.
[0040]
A network I / F 406 is configured to be able to communicate with the client host 102 and the network printer 104 via the network 101.
[0041]
A device profile acquisition unit 407 acquires a device profile from a device connected to the network 101 and stores it in the device profile database 404. A transfer path profile supply unit 408 reads the transfer path profile from the transfer path profile database 405 according to the request of the device, and supplies it to the request source device via the network 101.
[0042]
A transfer path profile generation unit 409 generates a transfer path profile from the information device written in the device profile database 404 and writes the transfer path profile in the transfer path profile database 405.
[0043]
Next, a device profile will be described.
[0044]
The device profile is data indicating performance and characteristics related to each device necessary for configuring a virtual MFP (scanner & network & file device in this embodiment), and is composed of text data as shown in FIG. .
[0045]
FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an example of the device profile 50 in the client host 102 shown in FIG.
[0046]
In the figure, 51 is Device-Type :, which indicates the type of device. In this case, since the client host 102 performs the function of a file server, it indicates that the input device is “FILE”.
[0047]
Device-Id: 52 indicates the ID of the device. In this case, “FILE-XXX” indicates the “ID” of the device. Device-address: 53 indicates the network system of the device. In this case, “172.6.10.2” indicates the network address of the device.
[0048]
Reference numeral 54 denotes Support-Mode :, which indicates a mode that supports Read Only, Write Only, Read / Write, and in this case, indicates that the file supports Read / Write.
[0049]
55 is Document-format: an image format supported by the function. In this case, the device supports JPEG, GIF type images, and LIPS4 type PDL files.
[0050]
Amount file: 56 indicates the total capacity of the file. In this case, 5 GB is indicated. Reference numeral 57 denotes “Remain file:” indicating the remaining capacity of the file, and in this case, 3.5 GB.
[0051]
The device profile of the device is acquired by the device profile acquisition unit 307 of the management server 103.
[0052]
FIG. 6 is a diagram for explaining an example of the device profile 60 in the network printer 104 shown in FIG.
[0053]
In the figure, 61 is Device-Type :, which indicates the type of device, and in this case, indicates that the output device is a laser beam printer (LBP). 62 is Device-Id :, which indicates the ID of the device. In this case, LBP-XXX indicates the ID of the device.
[0054]
63 is Device-address: which indicates the network address of the device. In this case, “172.6.10.3” indicates the network address of the device. Reference numeral 64 denotes Resolutino: which is a resolution supported by the function. In this case, it indicates that resolutions of 300 dpi and 600 dpi are supported.
[0055]
Reference numeral 65 denotes Media-size :, which indicates the paper size supported by the device. In this case, the device indicates that the paper size of A3, A4, A5, B4 is supported.
[0056]
Reference numeral 66 denotes Output-speed: which indicates that an A4 document is output with predetermined data in a time of 6 seconds. Reference numeral 67 denotes Output-fees: which indicates charging when a device is used. For example, when a monochrome image is output in A4 size, 10 yen is charged.
[0057]
Reference numeral 68 denotes Document-format: which indicates an image format supported by the device. In this case, it indicates that input by LIPS4, N201, ESC / P is supported. Reference numeral 69 denotes Output-command: in this case, A3 / REQ A3-print, A4 / REQ A4-print, A5 / REQ A5-print, B4 / REQ B4-print.
[0058]
The device profile of the device is acquired by the device profile acquisition unit of the management server 103.
[0059]
FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of an acquisition processing procedure performed by the device profile acquisition unit 407 of the management server 103 illustrated in FIG. In addition, S701-S703 shows each step. The device profile acquisition unit 407 is activated when the management server 103 is activated, and operates until the system is terminated.
[0060]
First, in S701, a device profile acquisition command shown in FIG. 8 is issued to a device connected to the network 101 only once at the time of activation. Steps S702 and S703 will be described later.
[0061]
FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a device profile acquisition command issued by the device profile acquisition unit 407 of the management server 103 illustrated in FIG.
[0062]
In the figure, 81 is a device profile acquisition command, “REQ” indicates a transfer request, and “DEVICE-PROFILE” indicates a device profile, which indicates a device profile request. This device profile acquisition command 81 is broadcasted to the network 101 in the form of a UDP packet in TCP / IP.
[0063]
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a device profile transfer command 91 received by the device profile acquisition unit 407 of the management server 103 illustrated in FIG.
[0064]
In the figure, “SEND” on the first line indicates transfer, and “DEVICE-PROFILE” indicates a device profile, indicating that the device profile is transferred. The following lines show the contents of the device profile, similar to FIG. 5, and are terminated by the line “END_OF_PROFILE”.
[0065]
Next, in step S702, it is compared whether or not the device profile transfer instruction 91 has arrived. If it is determined that the device profile transfer instruction 91 has not arrived, the process returns to step S702, and the device profile transfer instruction 91 having the data structure shown in FIG. If it is determined that the device profile transfer instruction 91 has arrived, the device profile is recorded in the device profile database 404 in step S703, and the process returns to step S702 to wait for the next device profile transfer instruction.
[0066]
Next, processing for transferring a device profile from the device side on the network 101 to the management server 103 will be described.
[0067]
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure in the network device shown in FIG. 1, and a device profile supply processing procedure by the device profile supply unit 306 shown in FIG. 3 or the device profile supply unit 206 shown in FIG. Corresponds to. S901 to S903 indicate each step. The device profile supply units 206 and 306 are called when a network device (hereinafter simply referred to as “device”) is activated, and continue processing until the power of the device is shut off.
[0068]
First, in step S901, the device executes device profile transfer to the management server 103 only once at the time of activation. If the management server 103 is activated, a device profile transfer command is received and reflected in the device profile database 404 in step S702 shown in FIG.
[0069]
If the management server 103 is not activated at this time, the device profile transfer command is not reflected in the device profile database 404 of the management server 103.
[0070]
Next, in step S902, it is checked whether a device profile transfer request command has arrived from the management server 103. If it is determined that the device profile transfer request command has not arrived, the process returns to step 902 to enter a device profile transfer command standby state.
[0071]
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S902 that a device profile transfer command has been sent from the management server 103, in step S903, a device profile transfer command is issued to the management server 103 as in step S901, and the process returns to step S902.
[0072]
This process is to issue a device profile transfer request command of the management server 103 by means of reflecting the device information in the device profile database 404 when the management server 103 is started after the device is activated. By doing so, it is ensured that the management server 103 always acquires device profiles of all devices connected to the network.
[0073]
In the management server 103, based on the device information written in the device profile database 404, the transfer profile generation unit 409 generates a transfer path profile and stores it in the transfer path profile database 405.
[0074]
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a transfer path profile generated by the transfer profile generation unit 409 of the management server 103 illustrated in FIG.
[0075]
In the figure, “Description:” indicates a character string to be displayed on the device panel when a transfer path is selected. In this case, “PRINT FILEXXX to LBP-XXX” is indicated. 112 is input-device :, which indicates the type of input device. 113 is output-device: which indicates the type of output device. Reference numeral 114 denotes input-address, which indicates the network address of the input device.
[0076]
Reference numeral 115 denotes output-address, which indicates the network address of the output device. Reference numeral 116 denotes Document-format: which indicates the format of a document used in this transfer path. 117 is Copy-default: which indicates the number of copies to be used by default.
[0077]
Reference numeral 118 denotes Resolution: which indicates the resolution used in this transfer path. Reference numeral 119 denotes output-command: information written in the device profile of the output device, which indicates the output size for the output device.
[0078]
Note that the management server 103 normally has one or more transfer profiles, and supplies the transfer profiles to each device in response to a request from the input device and the output device.
[0079]
FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an example of another data processing procedure in the management server 103 illustrated in FIG. 4, and corresponds to the data processing procedure in the transfer path profile supply unit 408 of the management server 103. S1101 to S1105 indicate each step.
[0080]
The transfer path profile supply unit 408 starts operation upon activation of the management server 103. In step S1101, all transfer path profiles stored in the transfer path profile database 405 at the time of activation are connected to the network by a transfer path profile transfer command. All devices are notified, and the notification is performed by broadcast notification.
[0081]
Next, if NO at step S1102, the process proceeds to step S1104 to check whether there is a change in the transfer path profile database 405. If it is determined that there has been a change, the transfer path profile with the change is determined at step S1103. All devices connected to the network are notified, and the process proceeds to step S1104 and subsequent steps. Notification is performed by broadcasting.
[0082]
Next, in step S1104, it is checked whether or not a transfer path profile transfer request command has arrived from each device. If it is determined that it has not arrived, the process returns to step S1102. All transfer path profiles stored in the transfer path profile database 405 are notified to the requested device by a transfer path profile transfer command, and the process returns to step S1102.
[0083]
FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a structural example of a transfer path profile request command received from the client by the management server 103 shown in FIG.
[0084]
In the figure, “REQ” indicates a transfer request, and “TRANSMISION-PATH-PROFILE” indicates a transfer path profile, which indicates a request for a transfer path profile.
[0085]
FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a structure example of a transfer path profile transfer command transferred from the management server 103 shown in FIG.
[0086]
In the figure, “SEND” in the first line indicates transfer, and “TRANSMISSION-PATH-PROFILE” indicates a transfer path profile. The following lines indicate the contents of the transfer path profile in the same manner as in FIG. 11 and are terminated by the line “END_OF_PROFILE”.
[0087]
15 is a flowchart showing an example of another data processing procedure in the device shown in FIG. 1, and a transfer path profile in the input device, for example, the client host 102 and the output device, for example, the network printer 104, shown in FIG. This corresponds to the acquisition processing procedure by the acquisition units 207 and 307. S1401 to S1403 indicate each step.
[0088]
First, in step S1401, the client host 102 and the network printer 104 issue a transfer path profile request command to the management server 103 in order to acquire a transfer path profile. By this command, the transfer path profile supply unit 408 in the management server 103 determines Yes in step S1104 shown in FIG. 12, and the transfer path profile is transferred in step S1105.
[0089]
Next, if the transfer path profile is transferred by the transfer path profile transfer command in step S1402, it is stored in the RAM (ROM 203 for the client host 102, RAM 303 for the network printer 104) in step S1403, and the process returns to step S1402.
[0090]
As described above, each device (client host 102, network printer 10) acquires the transfer profile from the management server 103 and stores it in the RAMs 202 and 303.
[0091]
Next, processing when a transfer path profile is selected from the operation panel 208 of the client host 102 and print data is transferred to the network printer 104 to perform printing will be described.
[0092]
FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface handled by the operation panel 208 in the client host 102 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to a standard setting screen display on a display device of the client host 102 (not shown).
[0093]
In the figure, reference numeral 1701 denotes a button for selecting a transfer path profile registered in advance, and the transfer path profile selected by the selection button 1701 is displayed in the path selection display field 1702. In this case, FIG. The character string shown in “Descripton:” of the transfer path profile shown in FIG.
[0094]
In the select field 1704, the transfer path profile selected by the selection button 1701 is displayed, and the input-device :, output-device :, input-device status :, output-device status: of the transfer profile shown in FIG. , Output-address :, output-address :, Document-format :, Resolution: are displayed, and the device status is displayed.
[0095]
A button 1705 prints all pages, and is on by default. 1706 is a button for printing a designated page, 1708 is a display unit, and the number of copies is displayed.
[0096]
Reference numerals 1709 and 1710 denote buttons. The button 1709 is designated when the number of copies is increased, and the button 1710 is designated when the number of copies is decreased.
[0097]
Reference numeral 1711 denotes a cancel button, and 1712 denotes an OK button. When an OK button 1712 is pressed, a network print function using this transfer profile is executed.
[0098]
According to the transfer path profile illustrated in FIG. 14, the client host 102 selects “172.6.10.2” written in input-address: as an input function, and an output command written in Output-command: Is sent to the output device to request output.
[0099]
When the client host 102 receives the output command, the print image is transferred from the client host 102 at the resolution and image format specified by the transfer path profile, and is printed by the network printer 104.
[0100]
For detailed printer settings, when a property button 1703 shown in FIG. 16 is pressed, a printer setting screen shown in FIG. 17 is displayed.
[0101]
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface handled by the operation unit 208 in the client host 102 shown in FIG. 2, and corresponds to a user interface displayed on a display device (not shown), for example, a printer setting screen display.
[0102]
In the figure, reference numeral 1801 denotes a paper size field, which displays the paper size selected by the button 1802. A button 1802 selects a paper size to be supplied.
[0103]
A paper size field 1803 displays the output paper size selected by the button 1804.
[0104]
A page layout field 1805 displays a page layout such as one page print, two page print, and four page print on one sheet selected by the button 1806. Reference numeral 1807 denotes a layout field which displays a front side print and a double sided print selected by a button 1808.
[0105]
Reference numeral 1809 denotes a button, which is selected when the vertical paper feeding is selected, and is turned on by default. Reference numeral 1810 denotes a button, which is selected when the horizontal feeding is selected. Reference numeral 1811 denotes a setting cancel button, and 1812 denotes a setting OK button.
[0106]
[Second Embodiment]
In the first embodiment, the transfer profile is selected on the operation panel of the client host 102 and the print data is transferred to the network printer 104. Conversely, the transfer path profile is selected from the operation panel of the network printer 104. The client host 102 may be requested to send print data. The embodiment will be described below.
[0107]
The network printer 104 acquires the transfer path profile in the same procedure as the client host 102 acquires the transfer path profile from the management server 103 in the first embodiment. Next, the actual printing process will be described.
[0108]
It is assumed that the user starts up the client host 102, stands in front of the network printer 104, and operates the panel shown in FIG. 18 to perform printing.
[0109]
18 to 20 are views showing the appearance of the operation panel 308 in the network printer 104 shown in FIG.
[0110]
In FIG. 18, 2001 is a liquid crystal panel capable of displaying, for example, 16 characters, and 2002 is a button, which is instructed when a transfer path profile is selected. A button 2003 is instructed when an image file is selected.
[0111]
Actually, when the transfer path profile is selected, the transfer path profile selection button 2002 is used as shown in FIG.
[0112]
The character string of the liquid crystal panel 2001 displays the character string shown in Description: 111 shown in FIG. 11, indicating that the transfer path profile shown in FIG. 10 is selected.
[0113]
If a plurality of transfer path profiles are registered in the network printer 104, another transfer path profile can be selected by further pressing a transfer path profile selection button 2002.
[0114]
As shown in FIG. 20, the file is selected by an image file selection button 2003, and a file to be printed is checked on the liquid crystal panel 2001 and selected from the FILE of the selected transfer path profile. Here, the selection of the print file ends.
[0115]
When a start button 2004 is pressed here, a file print function using this transfer path profile is executed.
[0116]
According to the transfer path profile shown in FIG. 14, the network printer 104 selects “172.6.10.2” written in input-address: as an input device, and print command written in output-command: Is sent to the input device to request output.
[0117]
When the client host 102 receives the output command, the client host 102 transmits the data designated as a reply to the network printer 104. At this time, the network printer 104 only performs transmission processing of the transferred print data regardless of the transfer path profile.
[0118]
In the first and second embodiments, it is assumed that all transfer path profiles are stored in the management server 103. However, in order to enable printing even when the management server 103 is not activated. In addition, a transfer path profile may be registered in a nonvolatile memory of each device, for example, NVRAM or a hard disk. Furthermore, the device may have a function equivalent to that of the management server 103.
[0119]
In the first and second embodiments, the client host 102 also serves as a file server. Needless to say, an equivalent function can be realized even if the client host and the file server are separately arranged on the network. .
[0120]
Furthermore, although the case where the printer is a B & W printer has been described in the first and second embodiments, the color format may be a compressed image such as JPEC. In addition, setting of properties on the client host 102 may include setting of color balance and γ.
[0121]
According to the first embodiment, data is transferred from the client host to the network printer, and complicated configuration information for realizing the network printer is provided as a transfer path profile to the management server. A network print function can be realized simply by selecting whether to use a profile, which provides convenience to the user and eliminates the need to develop an operation panel that allows a client host to perform complicated operation designation.
[0122]
Further, according to the second embodiment, data is transferred from the client host to the network printer, and complicated configuration information for realizing the network printer is provided as a transfer path profile to the management server. The network print function can be realized simply by selecting which transfer profile is used, and it is possible to reduce the cost by giving the user convenience and eliminating the need for an operation panel that allows the network printer to perform complicated operation designation. .
[0123]
The configuration of a data processing program that can be read out by a printing system to which the network system according to the present invention can be applied will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.
[0124]
FIG. 21 is a diagram for explaining a memory map of a storage medium for storing various data processing programs that can be read by the network system according to the present invention.
[0125]
Although not particularly illustrated, information for managing a program group stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, creator, etc. is also stored, and information depending on the OS on the program reading side, for example, a program is identified and displayed Icons may also be stored.
[0126]
Further, data depending on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs in the computer, and a program for decompressing when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.
[0127]
The functions shown in FIG. 7, FIG. 10, FIG. 12, and FIG. 15 in this embodiment may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when an information group including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Is.
[0128]
As described above, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus stores the storage medium in the storage medium. It goes without saying that the object of the present invention can also be achieved by reading and executing the programmed program code.
[0129]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.
[0130]
As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, a hard disk, an optical disk, a magneto-optical disk, a CD-ROM, a CD-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, an EEPROM, or the like is used. it can.
[0131]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an OS (operating system) or the like running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by performing part or all of the actual processing and the processing is included.
[0132]
Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written to a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function expansion is performed based on the instruction of the program code. It goes without saying that the case where the CPU or the like provided in the board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing.
[0133]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the first to seventeenth aspects of the present invention, a file managed by a data processing device functioning as a file server is output from any of a plurality of output devices from each data processing device side. The transfer path information corresponding to the combination of each data processing device and each output device is generated and managed by the management server, the transfer path information is acquired by each data processing device, and the acquired transfer path Since the information is displayed and the input / output device is selected, the user interface for performing the complicated operation setting necessary to output the desired file to be stored is not required, and the input selected by a very simple operation is not required. It is possible to determine the output device and transfer the output information according to the transfer path information to the specified output device.
[0134]
In addition, when outputting a file managed by a data processing device functioning as a file server in response to an instruction from the output device from any of a plurality of output devices, it corresponds to a combination of each data processing device and each output device. Since transfer path information is generated and managed by the management server, each data processing apparatus acquires the transfer path information, displays the acquired transfer path information, and selects an input / output device. An output device that does not require an operation panel for performing complicated operation settings necessary to output a file, identifies the input / output device selected by a very simple operation, and identifies the output information according to the transfer path information There is an effect that it can be transferred to.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of a network system to which a data processing apparatus according to a first embodiment of the present invention can be applied.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a configuration of a client host shown in FIG.
FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of the network scanner shown in FIG. 1;
4 is a block diagram for explaining a configuration of a management server shown in FIG. 1; FIG.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of a device profile in the client host illustrated in FIG. 1;
6 is a diagram for explaining an example of a device profile in the network printer shown in FIG. 1. FIG.
7 is a flowchart showing an example of an acquisition processing procedure by a device profile acquisition unit of the management server shown in FIG. 4;
8 is a diagram showing a structure example of a device profile acquisition command issued by a device profile acquisition unit of the management server shown in FIG.
9 is a diagram showing a structure example of a device profile transfer command received by a device profile acquisition unit of the management server shown in FIG.
10 is a flowchart showing an example of a data processing procedure in the network device shown in FIG.
11 is a diagram showing a structure example of a transfer path profile generated by a transfer profile generation unit of the management server shown in FIG.
12 is a flowchart showing an example of another data processing procedure in the management server shown in FIG. 4;
13 is a diagram illustrating a structure example of a transfer path profile request command received by the management server illustrated in FIG. 4;
14 is a diagram showing a structure example of a transfer path profile transfer command transferred from the management server shown in FIG. 4;
15 is a flowchart showing an example of another data processing procedure in the device shown in FIG. 1;
16 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface handled by an operation panel in the client host shown in FIG.
17 is a diagram showing an example of a user interface handled by an operation panel in the client host shown in FIG.
18 is a diagram showing an external appearance of an operation panel in the network printer shown in FIG. 3;
19 is a diagram showing an external appearance of an operation panel in the network printer shown in FIG. 3;
20 is a diagram showing an external appearance of an operation panel in the network printer shown in FIG. 3;
FIG. 21 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the network system according to the present invention.
[Explanation of symbols]
101 network
102 Client host
103 Management server
104 Network printer

Claims (17)

A management server that manages the entire system by communicating with a data processing device functioning as a file server and a plurality of output devices via a communication medium,
Obtaining means for obtaining unique resource information from the data processing device or the plurality of output devices;
First storage means for storing the resource information acquired by the acquisition means;
Generating means for generating a plurality of transfer path information for specifying input / output devices from the resource information stored by the first storage means;
Second storage means for storing a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generation means;
Supply means for supplying a plurality of transfer path information stored by the second storage means to the data processing apparatus or each output device based on a transfer path information request from the data processing device or each output device;
A management server characterized by comprising: A data processing device having a file server function capable of communicating with a plurality of output devices and a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium,
First supply means for supplying the management server with unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server;
Acquisition means for acquiring, from the management server, a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which the file is to be transferred;
Selecting means for selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means;
Control means for controlling the input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection means;
A data processing apparatus comprising: An output device capable of communicating with a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium and a data processing device that functions as a file server,
First supply means for supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing device;
Acquisition means for acquiring, from the data processing device, a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored by the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing device is to be transferred;
Selection means for selecting desired transfer path information from among a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition means; and control means for controlling input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection means; ,
An output device comprising:   The acquisition means is a transfer related to itself in a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. 3. The data processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein path information is obtained from the data processing apparatus.   The acquisition means is a transfer related to itself in a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred. 4. The output device according to claim 3, wherein path information is obtained from the data processing device.   A second storage unit configured to store a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition unit, wherein the selection unit selects desired transfer path information from the plurality of transfer path information stored by the storage unit; The data processing apparatus according to claim 2, wherein:   A second storage unit configured to store a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition unit, wherein the selection unit selects desired transfer path information from the plurality of transfer path information stored by the storage unit; The output device according to claim 3, wherein: A data processing method in a management server that communicates with a data processing device functioning as a file server via a communication medium and a plurality of output devices to manage the entire system,
Obtaining unique resource information from the data processing device or the plurality of output devices;
A first storage step of storing the resource information acquired by the acquisition step in a storage device;
A generation step of generating a plurality of transfer path information for specifying input / output devices from the resource information stored in the first storage step;
A second storage step of storing a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generation step in the storage device;
A supply step of supplying a plurality of the transfer path information stored in the second storage step to the data processing device or each output device based on a transfer path information request from the data processing device or each output device;
A data processing method characterized by comprising: A data processing method in a data processing apparatus having a file server function capable of communicating with a plurality of output devices and a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium,
A first supply step of supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the management server;
Obtaining a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server to identify an input / output device to which the file is to be transferred;
A selection step of selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition step;
An execution step of performing an input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection step;
A data processing method characterized by comprising: A data processing method in an output device capable of communicating with a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium and a data processing device that functions as a file server,
A first supply step of supplying unique data information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing device;
Obtaining a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing device is to be transferred;
A selection step of selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition step;
An execution step of performing an input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection step;
A data processing method characterized by comprising:   In the acquisition step, transfer related to the own device in a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred 11. The data processing method according to claim 9, wherein path information is obtained from the data processing device. A second storage step of storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired in the acquisition step in a storage device;
The data processing method according to claim 9 or 10, wherein the selecting step selects desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information stored by the storage device. A storage medium that stores a computer-readable program that controls a management server that manages a system by communicating with a data processing device that functions as a file server and a plurality of output devices via a communication medium,
Obtaining unique resource information from the data processing device or the plurality of output devices;
A first storage step of storing the resource information acquired by the acquisition step in a storage device;
A generation step of generating a plurality of transfer path information for specifying input / output devices from the resource information stored in the first storage step;
A second storage step of storing a plurality of transfer path information generated by the generation step in the storage device;
A supply step of supplying a plurality of the transfer path information stored in the second storage step to the data processing device or each output device based on a transfer path information request from the data processing device or each output device;
A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing apparatus having a file server function capable of communicating with a plurality of output devices and a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium,
A first supply step of supplying unique resource information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the management server;
Obtaining a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server to identify an input / output device to which the file is to be transferred;
A selection step of selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition step;
An execution step of performing an input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection step;
A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling an output device capable of communicating with a management server that manages the entire system via a communication medium and a data processing device that functions as a file server,
A first supply step of supplying unique data information stored based on a resource information acquisition request from the management server to the data processing device;
Obtaining a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing device is to be transferred;
A selection step of selecting desired transfer path information from a plurality of transfer path information acquired by the acquisition step, and an execution step of executing an input / output operation of the input / output device according to the transfer path information selected by the selection step; ,
A computer-readable storage medium storing a computer-readable program.   In the acquisition step, transfer related to the own device in a plurality of transfer path information generated and stored in the management server in order to identify an input / output device to which a file managed by the data processing apparatus is to be transferred 16. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 14, wherein path information is obtained from the data processing device.   A second storage step of storing a plurality of transfer path information acquired in the acquisition step in a storage device, wherein the selection step includes a desired transfer path out of the plurality of transfer path information stored in the storage device; 16. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program according to claim 14, wherein information is selected.

Images