JP4371673B2 - Program installation method and server device - Google Patents

Description

[0001]
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
The present invention relates to a network system that uses a shared device such as a printer connected to a network for a terminal on the network, and more particularly to a program installation method, apparatus, and system for installing a device driver in each terminal.
[0002]
[Prior art]
Conventional device driver installation methods, such as printer driver installation methods, are performed in a manner that depends on the operating system (OS). For example, in the case of Windows (registered trademark), “Add Printer” is selected from printer properties (information on objects is collected, and an operation such as adding a driver can be performed on the object). Then, the user inputs necessary information in an interactive form called a wizard and installs the printer driver.
[0003]
In addition to the above, there is a method of realizing the installation of the printer driver by using the installer and causing the user to perform a minimum operation as in the case of the application.
[0004]
Also, a mechanism called Point & Print using a print server was on a Windows NT (registered trademark) / 2000 server. According to this mechanism, a printer driver for a printer shared over a network is installed in the server device. When the client device connects to the print server, the server automatically distributes the printer driver to the client and installs it in the client device.
[0005]
As described above, the method for installing the device driver such as the printer driver in the client device has the above-described method. However, any method is added when a function is added or extended to the printer driver. It was necessary to reinstall a full set of newer versions of the printer driver that included features.
[0006]
For this reason, when a function different from that of a printer driver released for general consumers is required, or when it is desired to mask a function that a general user does not want to use in an in-house LAN, for example, it is required. It was necessary to prepare a full set of customized drivers by adding functions or deleting unnecessary functions and installing them on the client terminal.
[0007]
[Problems to be solved by the invention]
However, in the conventional installation method described above, when a large number of computers are owned and a large number of users (clients) are held, such as corporate users, various problems arise because work for installing the printer driver on all the clients occurs. was there.
[0008]
For example, the user checks which printer he / she can use, what the IP address of the printer is, etc., downloads and installs a printer driver suitable for the printer from a server or a vendor site, and It is necessary to make environmental settings such as output ports. Therefore, each user is required to have a certain level of knowledge and ability. In addition, this work requires labor and time, and there is a problem that a large amount of man-hours are required for education and manual preparation to compensate for this. In addition, if each user installs a driver freely and connects to the printer randomly, there is a problem that a problem may occur as a printing system.
[0009]
In order to solve these problems, the printer administrator (IT manager) only needs to install the driver in each client terminal. However, when the number of clients is large, there is a problem that it takes a very long time.
[0010]
In addition, when using customized drivers, you will usually receive support from the manufacturer, but if you want to use a different driver for each department, you can give up fine support and use a common driver, or for each driver set It was necessary to pay a high fee. Manufacturers also needed to re-create driver sets for customization, making it difficult to produce a wide variety of products in small quantities.
[0011]
In order to use new functions in the driver, a newer device (printer) driver version is usually used. However, updating and reinstalling the driver is time consuming and may cause a reboot. There was a problem of affecting the business of
[0012]
In the Point & Print method using the print server, the printer driver can be installed for all clients by automatic distribution of the printer driver. However, the driver function is provided because the installation is performed regardless of the state of the client device. However, there are problems such as changes in the usage status of the user and malfunctions due to inconsistencies in the driver configuration.
[0013]
The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems of the prior art, and an object of the present invention is to provide a program installation method, an apparatus, and a program installation method that enable installation of a device driver such as a printer in units of functions. In providing the system.
[0014]
Furthermore, it is providing the program installation method, apparatus, and system which can install an appropriate driver, without depending on a user's knowledge or a user himself / herself.
[0015]
[Means for Solving the Problems]
In order to achieve the above object, for example, the present invention comprises the following arrangement.
[0016]
  An installation method of a program executed in a server device,
  A designation step for designating a client device and an extended function program having an individual function for extending a core function of a driver for controlling a device that communicates with the client device (paragraph 107, paragraph 52);
  An installation step of installing the extension function program specified in the specification step from the client device to the client device by installing it from the server device to the client device (paragraph) 110),
  In the specifying step, for each of the client devices, it is possible to specify a device to be controlled by the extended function program and to specify an extended function program permitted to be used for each device.The
  In the installation step, an extended function program that is permitted to be installed on a device that is permitted to be used for the designated client device is installed on the designated client.The
[0017]
More preferably, the information acquired by the acquisition step includes designation of a device that is permitted to be used for each of the client devices and designation of an extended function program that is permitted to be installed for each device.
[0018]
  More preferably, in the installation step,Specified by the specified processAccording to the client device specification and installation start instructionBy the specified processTo the specified client deviceforThe extended function program is installed.
[0019]
More preferably, in the installation step, the extended function program is installed in the designated client device in accordance with the designation of the client device and the installation start instruction input from the input device.
[0020]
More preferably, in the installation step, an extension function program permitted to be installed on a device permitted to be used for the designated client device is installed on the designated client.
[0021]
  Alternatively, a server device that provides a program that is remotely installed on a client device,
  A designation unit for designating an extension function program having an individual function for extending a core function of a driver for controlling a client apparatus and a device for controlling a device communicating with the client apparatus;
  Installation means for installing the client apparatus specified by the specifying means from the client apparatus by transmitting the extended function program specified by the specifying means from the server apparatus to the client apparatus;
  For each of the client devices, the specifying unit can specify a device to be controlled by the extended function program and can specify an extended function program permitted to be used for each device.The
  The installation means installs, for the specified client, an extension function program that is permitted to be installed on a device that is permitted to be used for the specified client device.The
[0022]
More preferably, the extension function program has its identifier registered and installed in the client, and is connected to the driver of the device with the registered identifier.
[0023]
More preferably, the extended function program is registered as an object supported by the inter-object communication function provided by the operating system of the client device, connected to the driver of the device by the inter-object communication function, and predetermined. Called in the form.
[0026]
Or the network system which connected the said server and the client also comprises this invention.
[0027]
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION
Hereinafter, an embodiment suitable for applying the present invention will be described. In the first embodiment, a network system that realizes installation of a pull type printer driver will be described, and in the second embodiment, a push type will be described. In the embodiment, installation of a printer driver will be described as an example. However, the present embodiment can be applied to a driver program for a peripheral device in general. Furthermore, the present invention can be applied to application programs.
[0028]
[First Embodiment]
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating the configuration of a system showing an embodiment of the present invention. A server device 102, a plurality of client devices 103, and a printer 101 are connected on the network 100. The printer driver can be installed from the server apparatus 102 to the client apparatus 103 as will be described later. Although not shown, a scanner, a digital camera, a facsimile machine, a mouse, a speaker, a sound source device, a telephone, a copying machine, and the like are connected to the network.
[0029]
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of the print processing system according to the embodiment of the present invention. Unless otherwise specified, any form such as a LAN, WAN, public line, or Internet can be applied to connect the host computer (including the server and client) and the printer 101.
[0030]
In FIG. 2, the host computer 3000 corresponds to the server 102 or the client 103, and includes graphics, images, characters, tables (including spreadsheets, etc.) based on a program processing program stored in the ROM 3 or a document processing program stored in the external memory 11. ) And the like, and the CPU 1 performs overall processing of each device connected to the system bus 4.
[0031]
The ROM 3 program ROM or external memory 11 stores an operating system program (hereinafter referred to as OS) which is a control program of the CPU 1, and the ROM 3 font ROM or external memory 11 stores the above-mentioned document processing. Font data to be used and the like are stored, and various data used when the document processing is performed is stored in the data ROM of the ROM 3 or the external memory 11.
[0032]
The RAM 2 functions as a main memory and work area for the CPU 1. A keyboard controller (KBC) 5 controls key input from a keyboard 9 or a pointing device (not shown). A CRT controller (CRTC) 6 controls display on a CRT display (CRT) 10. A disk controller (DKC) 7 includes a hard disk (HD), floppy (registered trademark) disk (which stores a boot program, various applications, font data, user files, editing files, a printer control command generation program (hereinafter referred to as a printer driver), and the like. FD) or the like is controlled. A printer controller (PRTC) 8 is connected to the printer 101 via the network 100 and executes bidirectional communication control processing with the printer 1500. Note that a command corresponding to the connection protocol may be added to the print job at the time of transmission. Further, the command may be automatically added by the OS.
[0033]
The CPU 1 executes, for example, an outline font rasterization process on the display information RAM set on the RAM 2 to enable WYSIWYG on the CRT 10. The CPU 1 opens various windows registered based on commands instructed by a mouse cursor (not shown) on the CRT 10 and executes various data processing. When executing printing, the user opens a window relating to print settings, and can set the printer processing and print processing method settings for the printer driver including print mode selection.
[0034]
In the printer 101, the printer CPU 12 includes a printing unit via a printing unit I / F 16 connected to the system bus 15 based on a control program stored in the program ROM of the ROM 14 or a control program stored in the external memory 21. An image signal as output information is output to the (printer engine) 17. Further, the control program of the CPU 12 is stored in the program ROM of the ROM 14. The font ROM of the ROM 14 stores font data used when generating the output information, and the ROM 14 data ROM is used on the host computer in the case of a printer that does not have the external memory 21 such as a hard disk. Information to be stored is stored.
[0035]
The CPU 12 can communicate with the host computer via the input unit 18 and is configured to notify the host computer 3000 of information in the printer. Data received from the printer driver is stored in the RAM 13 and converted into an image signal by a control program. The control program also interprets commands added according to the communication protocol.
[0036]
A RAM 13 is a RAM that functions as a main memory, a work area, and the like for the CPU 12, and is configured such that the memory capacity can be expanded by an optional RAM connected to an expansion port (not shown). The RAM 13 is used as an output information expansion area, an environment data storage area, NVRAM, and the like.
[0037]
Access to the external memory 21 such as the hard disk (HD) and the IC card described above is controlled by the memory controller MC20. The external memory 21 is connected as an option and stores font data, an emulation program, form data, and the like.
Reference numeral 22 denotes the above-described operation panel on which operation switches, an LED display, a liquid crystal panel, and the like are arranged. Further, the number of external memories is not limited to one, and at least one external memory is provided so that an optional font card and a plurality of external memories storing programs for interpreting printer control languages with different language systems can be connected in addition to built-in fonts. It may be configured. Furthermore, an NVRAM (not shown) may be provided to store printer mode setting information from the operation panel 22.
[0038]
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a memory map in a state where the control program in the present embodiment is loaded into the RAM 2 on the host computer 3000 and becomes executable. Note that the pull-type installation program for the printer driver in this embodiment exists as part of the installation processing related programs 304 and 314 for the server device (a) and the client device (b), respectively. In FIG. 3, the operating systems 305 and 315, the applications 301 and 311 corresponding to the processing to be executed, and the installation processing related programs 304 and 314 are arranged in a form that can be executed on the memory for both the server and the client. . The installed driver is arranged in the memory of the client device as a part of the operating system 315 in the free memory area 312. In addition, related data areas 303 and 313 necessary for installation processing are also secured on the memory. The BIOSs 306 and 316 are programs for controlling various devices that are called when the operating system executes basic input / output.
[0039]
FIG. 4 is a diagram schematically illustrating the configuration of the printer driver 400 and the calling of the printer driver from the operating system (also simply referred to as a system) 420. The printer driver 400 basically includes a core module 401 and an extended function module 410x (x = a, b,...). However, when there is no function that can be expanded, there is no function expansion module, and the number thereof is zero.
[0040]
The core module 401 is a module that is directly called from the system 420 or an application (not shown), and performs basic print setting processing and print execution processing.
[0041]
The extension function module 410x is a replaceable extension function module that performs a specific process, and is called from the core module 401 through the interface I / F 402 as necessary. The extended function module 410x can be plugged in (added or replaced) using a tool (installer), thereby adding or updating the function of the printer driver.
[0042]
As a calling method when the core module 401 calls the extended function module 410x, for example, “interface fixing method”, “interface registration method”, “use of COM”, and the like can be considered.
[0043]
The interface fixing method is a method in which a file name, a function name, an argument, and the like when calling each function are defined in advance. When the core module 401 needs each function, the core module 401 calls the extended function module 410x in accordance with each rule, and uses the process if there is an extended function module. The extended function module 410x is created in accordance with each rule.
[0044]
In this first method, for example, when an extended function module corresponding to the function name is not installed for a function name secured in advance, the corresponding extended function module is installed because the call fails. It is judged that it is not done. When installed, the calling process succeeds, and the processing of the extended function module is executed. When the installed function is uninstalled, the module is deleted to remove the entry. In this way, installation and uninstallation of the extended function module can be realized. The installation of the extended function module is particularly called a plug-in.
[0045]
The interface registration method is a method of registering the file name and function name when calling each function in the I / F 402. When the core module 401 requires each function, the core module 401 calls the extended function module 410x using an interface registered in the I / F 402. The extended function module 410x can be provided using an arbitrary file name or function name, and can be mixed with other extended function modules. When the extension function module 410x is plugged into an existing printer driver set, the installer performs registration and update to the I / F 402 through an interface registration function (Interface Face Registration) IFR 403.
[0046]
In the second method, for example, the I / F 402 stores a correspondence table between function names and corresponding entry points of extended function modules. As the extended function module is installed, the function name and entry point associated with the extended function module are registered in the I / F 402. At the time of uninstallation, the table item corresponding to the extended function module to be uninstalled is deleted. Such a table maintenance function is provided by the IFR 403. The extended function module is executed by calling the function name registered in the table. Therefore, only the extended function modules registered in the table are installed.
[0047]
The method using COM is a method in which a format for calling each function is defined in advance, and the extended function module is registered in the system 420 as a COM component. COM (Component Object Model) is an inter-object communication protocol established by the US Microsoft, and an object that complies with the protocol is called a COM component. In the method using COM, the entity of the extended function module can be held in the print server because of the location transparency that is a feature of COM.
[0048]
In the third method, when an extended function module is installed, the module is registered in the system 420, and when the module is uninstalled, the registration is deleted.
[0049]
The extended function module 410x can be called by the above method. In addition, the extension function module can be installed (plug-in) or uninstalled by a method according to the calling method. However, the calling method, installation (addition) and uninstallation methods mentioned here are merely examples, and the present invention is not limited to these. The replacement of the extended function can be realized by a combination of uninstallation and installation.
[0050]
The I / F 402 may function as a part of the core module 401 or may be an independent module. Similarly, in the second method, the IFR 403 may be integrated with the core module 401 or may be independent.
[0051]
When the core module 401 fails to call the extended function module 410x, that is, when the corresponding extended function module does not exist, the core module 401 performs common processing or skips the corresponding function processing. To proceed.
[0052]
In addition, the functions of the core module 401 and the extended function module 410x can be divided in various ways depending on the design. For example, basic common processing can be performed by a core module, and only specific individual functions can be made independent as extended function modules. Here, the common process includes, for example, a process for performing a printer function provided as a standard by the operating system. For example, there is a process for converting print data into a command system that can be processed by a printer. Specific individual functions provided as an extended function module include functions such as communication with a device (printer), color processing, user interface (UI), and rendering processing.
[0053]
Alternatively, the core module can be a wrapper that processes only calls from the system, and all the substantial functions provided by the printer driver, that is, the part that manages the flow of the entire process can be placed in the extended function module. is there.
[0054]
The mechanism described above is not limited to the printer driver frame, but can be applied to a printing system including other utilities, and can also be applied to other systems other than the printing system. Needless to say.
[0055]
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of a printer driver whose functions are extended by an extended function module, such as a printer driver set customized for a specific user. Compared to FIG. 4, the extended function module A is replaced by the extended function module A ′, and the extended function module C is added. Here, the replacement of the extended function module A ′ means that the processing content can be changed while using the same I / F as the existing extended function module. The addition of the extended function module C means that a specific process can be added or a specific process can be hooked. In this way, by changing the combination of the extended function modules, it is possible to easily provide a customized printer driver set in which special functions are added or specific functions are masked.
[0056]
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state in which the extended function module is plugged in. The process of plugging in two extension function modules 602, that is, an extension function module A ′ and an extension function module C, to an existing printer driver set 601 using an installer is shown. Here, the extended function module A ′ has the same interface as the existing extended function module A, and can be replaced with the extended function module A by plug-in. The extended function module C is added because there is no existing module corresponding thereto. As a result of the plug-in, the printer driver set is configured like the printer driver 603. The replacement or addition of the extended function module is performed according to any of the three methods described above.
[0057]
<Create management table>
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing the processing in the server 102 in this embodiment. Here, the printer management process according to the operation by the IT manager will be described. The process of FIG. 7 is started by an operation by an operator such as an IT manager. The management table 801 shown in FIG. 8 is created by the procedure shown in FIG.
[0058]
First, in step S701, information about a printer connected to the network is retrieved and acquired. At this time, the environment such as the output port and the necessary printer driver are also collected and managed. Printer information is normally input when the printer is connected to the network. The printer information includes, for example, an output port (such as an IP address for an IP network) and a printer identifier. Printer drivers can be collected, for example, by selecting the driver program files stored on the server that match the printer connected to the network, such as those with matching identifiers, and specifying the location of the files. To do. For example, if the printer is installed on the server, the identifier match can be determined based on the correspondence between the printer and the printer driver associated by the installation. Also, the IT manager can specify the correspondence between the printer and its driver, and collect the specified printer driver as necessary.
[0059]
Furthermore, when a printer driver is specified, an extended function module that can be added to the driver is also specified. This can also be realized by having a printer identifier or the like as a part of the program file of the extended function module. What can be collected is information about the driver program (core module) prepared in the server and the extended function module (name and location, corresponding driver identifier, corresponding printer identifier, etc.).
[0060]
Next, in step S702, a management list of client devices connected to the network is created. Here, the IT manager may manually register the client to be managed, or the server may collect information on all client devices existing within the jurisdiction, such as identifiers and addresses. it can. If it is not necessary to manage each client individually, the management list is not particularly required. In that case, step S703 is also not performed.
[0061]
Next, in step S703, a management table 801 as illustrated in FIG. 8 is created. Here, in the management table 801, based on the printer information collected in step S701 and the management list created in step S702, printers and extended functions permitted to be used for each client included in the management list are registered. Is done. The details are shown in FIG.
[0062]
The IT manager creates a management table with a user interface (UI) as illustrated in FIG. For this purpose, the server 102 first displays the identifier and address of the client in the client column 901 of FIG. 9 based on the management list, and displays the identifier and output port number (address) of the printer in the printer column 902 based on the printer information. The extended function modules are respectively displayed in the function column 903 (step S1501). When different types of printers are used, the extended functions may also be different. Therefore, when multiple types of printers are connected to the network, all the extended function modules are displayed in the function column 903 at the same time. Alternatively, only the extended function module corresponding to the printer selected from the printer column 902 may be displayed in the function column 903. In the former case, in order to clarify the correspondence between the printer and the selectable extension function module, it is desirable to improve the identification by displaying it in an independent column for each printer.
[0063]
After displaying each field in this way, the IT manager is made to set the management table. Setting is done for each client. For this purpose, a client is first selected (step S1502). In the example of FIG. 9, client B is selected.
[0064]
If there is an existing management table when a client is selected (step S1503-YES), the contents (that is, the current settings of each client) are read, and the settings for the selected client are displayed (step S1504). ). That is, for the client selected from the client column 901 by the IT manager, the printers and extended functions that are permitted to be used for the client are displayed with a check in the list of the printer column 902 and the function column 903, respectively. Is done. In the example of FIG. 9, the printers A and B and the extended function module E that are permitted to be used for the selected client B are displayed with a check.
[0065]
The operator can see the status of each client by changing the selected client in the client column. Since no assignment is made at the first setting, which printer and which function is allowed to be installed on which client is set from scratch. Note that the client to be managed may be added from this UI.
[0066]
If the current settings are displayed in this way, the IT manager adds a check mark to the printers and extended function modules that are allowed to be used by the client of interest (that is, selected) based on the settings. It sets to do (step S1505).
[0067]
At this time, if the input is client selection, the procedure after step S1503 is repeated for the selected client. If the “OK” button is pressed, the settings input at that time are stored as the management table 801. That is, the management table 801 in FIG. 8 is configured by associating the checked printers and extended function modules for each client, and stored (step S1507). If the “Cancel” button is pressed, the process ends without changing the management table.
[0068]
If the existing management table includes a printer that is not included in the printer information collected in step S701 or a client device that is not included in the management list created in step S702, these are disconnected from the network. You may delete as a thing from a management table. Alternatively, the content of the existing management table may be prioritized and handled by the IT manager.
[0069]
<Pull installation of driver or extension function module>
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing processing in the client and server in this embodiment. Here, the processing when the client user performs pull installation will be described. Pull installation is processing for requesting a program to be installed stored in a device such as a server from the client and installing the program on the client itself. That is, it includes a series of processes such as program download request, download, and installation.
[0070]
In FIG. 10, first, in step S1001, the client 103 sends an inquiry about the available device information about the printer and the extended function that can be used by the client 103 to the server 102 together with the identifier of the client itself. Obtain possible device information, that is, a list of available printers and extended function modules. At this time, the server 102 selects and returns corresponding client information from the management table managed by the server 102.
[0071]
When information is acquired in step S1001, the information acquired in step S1002 is displayed on the display screen of the client. Then, a printer or an extended function module that can be used by the client is selected.
[0072]
Next, in step S1003, pull installation of the selected driver or extension function module is executed. FIG. 11 shows an example of a UI for executing pull installation, and pull installation in step S1003 is started by pressing the installation start button 1101 as a trigger. Details of step S1003 are shown in FIG. In FIG. 14 and the description thereof, the installation of the “extended function module” is described, but the same applies to the driver core module.
[0073]
In FIG. 14, the client first issues an installation request to the server (step S1401). At this time, information specifying the printer and the extended function module selected in step S1002 is transmitted. At the same time, a plug-in receiving module that receives and installs a newly installed module in the client is loaded into the memory.
[0074]
The server 102 that has received the request acquires the specified information related to the corresponding client from the management table managed by the server 102 (step S1411), and requests the registered printer driver and extended function module from the requesting client. Is transmitted to the plug-in receiving module (step S1412). The server 102 determines whether an installation completion notification is received from the client or whether a predetermined time has elapsed (step S1413).
[0075]
On the other hand, the client 103 receives the module to be installed from the server 102, and stops the installation process when a predetermined time has elapsed after the installation request (S1402-timeout). If it has been received normally, all of them are received (step S1404), and the plug-in reception module is executed and installed. When the module to be installed is an extended function module, as described above, the module is installed and combined with the core module by a predetermined method out of the three methods. In the case of a core module, it is installed in the same manner as a normal device driver. In addition, environment settings such as output ports are set together with the installation.
[0076]
When the installation is completed, the plug-in reception module is unloaded (step S1405), and the server 102 is notified that the installation is completed (step S1406).
[0077]
This completes pull installation on the client.
[0078]
As described above, when pull-installing a device driver, by dividing the driver into functional units and preparing them as installable function modules, the client can install only the necessary functions. .
[0079]
In the server, it is possible to specify a driver and a function permitted to be used for each client. The client can select the functions to be installed within the permitted range.
[0080]
Therefore, the client can be managed even if the installation is left to the operator of the client terminal.
[0081]
In addition, since the client user can install the program simply by giving an installation instruction without any special knowledge, it is not necessary to go to the client device and install the printer driver if no special education is required.
[0082]
In addition, the IT manager can maintain the management table in the server, so that the management of printers and functions can be restricted or customized for each client. There is an effect that it becomes possible.
[0083]
Furthermore, in this embodiment, the extension function module can be updated even if the core module is loaded. Therefore, the printer driver can be updated without being rebooted without being affected by the system (OS) and applications.
[0084]
In this way, the function of the printer driver can be easily updated by plugging in only the extended function module.
[0085]
[First Modification of First Embodiment]
In management of printers and extended functions on the server, the functions may depend on the printer.
[0086]
FIG. 12 shows an example of a UI when the extended function depends on the printer as compared with FIG. That is, when a client is selected from the client column 1201, information associated with the client is displayed, but from the printer and function column 1202, a printer to be used is selected and an extended function subordinate to each printer is selected. Is possible. In the present embodiment, if the printer is not usable, the setting of the subordinate extended function has no meaning. Therefore, in FIG. 12, the printer C is not permitted to be used by the client B. Therefore, the extended function is not permitted. Can be displayed in gray so that it cannot be selected.
[0087]
The IT manager creates a management table through the UI 1200. When a pull installation request is received from a client user, the IT manager installs a printer driver and an extended function module according to the management table. Note that the management table has a format in which a printer that can be used is associated with each client, and a function that can be used with each printer.
[0088]
[Modification 2 of the first embodiment]
In this modified example, the processing flow in the form of managing the printers and extension functions that can be used without limiting each client on the server and selecting and using the necessary printers and extension functions by the client user. explain.
[0089]
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a UI for a client user to select and pull-install a necessary printer and an extended function. The flow of processing at the client in this embodiment will be described using the flowchart of FIG.
[0090]
First, in step S1001, list information of printers and extended functions managed by the server is acquired. The acquired list is a list of printers and extended function modules that are not limited by the management table.
[0091]
In step S1002, the acquired information is displayed on the UI illustrated in FIG. Assume that a printer and an extended function can be selected as in the UI example.
[0092]
In step S1003, pull installation is started by pressing the install button. At this time, the client requests a list of printers and extended functions to be installed to the server, and the server installs the corresponding printer driver and extended function module in the requesting client. In addition, the environment setting such as the output port is also performed in the same manner as in the above-described embodiment.
[0093]
Note that the trigger for starting pull installation can be an intuitive operation by dragging and dropping from the printer or the extended function list instead of pressing the install button.
[0094]
[Modification 3 of the first embodiment]
In the present embodiment, the setting of the driver or function module subject to use permission is performed for each client in this example. However, when the common setting is made for all clients, the display of the client column 901 in FIG. 9 is not necessary. Thus, common settings are made for all clients, and a common management table is created for all clients.
[0095]
[Modification 4 of the first embodiment]
In FIG. 10, the modules to be installed are limited in steps S1001 and S1002. However, if a module that can be installed is designated in the client in advance, these steps are unnecessary.
[0096]
[Modification 5 of the first embodiment]
In this embodiment, the device on which the driver is installed is a network device connected to a network, but it can also be a local device connected to a client. The same applies to the second embodiment.
[0097]
[Second Embodiment]
As a second embodiment, a system of so-called push installation processing that activates installation processing such as a driver on the client 103 in the server 102 will be described. In the present embodiment, the configuration of the network system, the configuration and creation procedure of the management table 801, and the like are the same as those in the first embodiment.
[0098]
<Push installation of driver or extension function module>
FIG. 16 is a flowchart of processing in the server in this embodiment. Since the operation is performed only on the server device side, the operation on the server device by the IT manager and the processing of the server are described here.
[0099]
First, in step S1601, information about a printer connected to the network is retrieved and acquired. At this time, the environment such as the output port and the necessary printer driver are also collected and managed.
[0100]
In step S1602, information about the client device connected to the network is searched and acquired. Here, information of all client devices existing in the jurisdiction of the server may be collected, or information may be acquired for a client device registered in advance as a management target. Information to be acquired includes whether each client is currently managed by the server (connected to the network), the model of the printer used by each client, the driver version, the extended function, and the like.
[0101]
Next, in step S1603, a management table as illustrated in FIG. 8 is created. Here, the printer and the extended function used for each client are managed. Furthermore, a UI as illustrated in FIG. 9 is displayed, and the IT manager is set to the printer and function to be installed on each client. Here, first, the contents of the management table of FIG. 8, that is, the current state of each client are displayed. When an arbitrary client is selected in the client column 901, printers and extended functions that can be used by the client are displayed with a check in the list of the printer column 902 and the function column 903, respectively. This is the same as in the first embodiment. By changing the selected client in the client column 901, the status of each client can be viewed. Note that a client that is not currently connected to the network may know the state. For example, it can be displayed by displaying in gray like the client D. It can also be displayed by adding a mark indicating prohibition.
[0102]
Here, the final client configuration is determined by changing the check, and the information is reflected in the management table 801. Since no driver is included when setting for the first time, it is set from scratch which printer and which function is installed on which client.
[0103]
In step S1604, push installation is performed by pressing the install button 1101 shown in FIG. 11 displayed on the server. According to the management table 801 shown in FIG. 8, printer drivers (core modules and extended function modules) managed by the server are installed in each client at the same time, and environment settings such as output ports are also set. If one extended function module is actually composed of a plurality of program files, only the difference may be installed except for the already installed program files. The same applies to the first embodiment.
[0104]
In step S1605, an installation result is displayed. A message indicating that the driver has been updated is displayed on the client device, and information indicating that the update has been completed or the update has failed is displayed on the server. Installation may fail if the client device is not connected to the network or printing is in progress, but when the server receives the failure information, the IT manager performs later processing, and the server device waits for a certain period of time. It can be used as a judgment material for taking appropriate measures to retry.
[0105]
Although the example of the operation screen shows an example of correspondence for each client, it goes without saying that a plurality of clients can be updated together (for example, in units of departments or floors).
[0106]
FIG. 17 is a diagram showing details of step S1604 of FIG.
[0107]
First, when an installation instruction is given to a driver or an extended function module installed in the server, an installation preparation request is issued to the client to be installed by designating them (step S1711).
[0108]
When the client receives and recognizes the request (step S1701), it responds that the preparation is completed (step S1702), and loads the plug-in reception module into the memory (step S1703). The order of step S1702 and step S1703 may be reversed. Thereafter, it waits for the download of the core module and the extended function module from the server.
[0109]
On the other hand, the server determines whether or not there is a preparation completion response from the client (step S81712). If there is no response, the server branches from step S1714 to step S1712 and waits for a response. If a certain time elapses, a timeout occurs and the process is canceled.
[0110]
If there is a preparation completion response from the client, the designated core module or extended function module is transmitted to the client (step S1703). Then, it waits for an installation completion notification from the client (step S1714). In FIG. 17, the transmission in step S1713 is repeated unless a completion notification is received. However, if the transmission itself is successful, the transmission need not be repeated.
[0111]
The client waits for a module transmitted from the server and receives it (step S1704), and installs it using the plug-in reception module. This is as described in step S1604, and the extended function module is installed according to any one of the three methods described in the first embodiment (step S1705).
[0112]
When the installation is completed, the plug-in reception module is unloaded (step S1706), and an installation completion notification is transmitted to the server (step S1707).
[0113]
Push installation is completed as described above. With this system configuration and processing procedure, it is possible to install the printer driver on the client device in a batch only by operation on the server. Therefore, no operation on the client side is required, and the program can be installed on the client simply and safely. As a result, there is no need to educate client users, and there is no need to go to those client devices and install a printer driver.
[0114]
In addition, the IT manager can maintain the management table in the server, so that the management of printers and functions can be restricted or customized for each client. There is an effect that it becomes possible.
[0115]
In addition to new printer driver installation, driver functions can be easily added and changed without rebooting, and versions can be easily matched among all client devices. There is an effect that can be done.
[0116]
Further, there is an effect that a customized printer driver set can be easily created.
[0117]
[Modification of Second Embodiment]
Note that all the modifications of the first embodiment can be applied to the second embodiment.
[0118]
As an operation of the IT manager on the server, an intuitive operation by drag and drop can be performed instead of creating a management table. For example, a list of network clients, a list of printers, and a list of extension modules are displayed. Select the printer you want to install from there, and drag and drop it on the target client to perform push installation. It can also be used as a trigger for executing. The same applies to the extended function. This is also applicable to the first embodiment.
[0119]
Note that the present invention can be applied to a system including a plurality of devices (for example, a host computer, an interface device, a reader, and a printer), and a device (for example, a copying machine and a facsimile device) including a single device You may apply to.
[0120]
Another object of the present invention is to supply a storage medium (or recording medium) in which a program code of software that realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments is recorded to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or (MPU) can also be achieved by reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.
[0121]
In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the program code itself and the storage medium storing the program code constitute the present invention.
[0122]
Further, by executing the program code read by the computer, not only the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized, but also an operating system (OS) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. A case where part or all of actual processing is performed and the functions of the above-described embodiments are realized by the processing is also included.
[0123]
Furthermore, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion card inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, the function is determined based on the instruction of the program code. This includes a case where the CPU or the like provided in the expansion card 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.
[0124]
[Other Embodiments]
In the network system according to the present invention, the server device includes a printer management unit that manages information on the printer connected to the network, a core module that performs basic processing, and a process of a specific function that is called by the core module. A printer driver composed of zero or more extended function modules for performing the above-described processing, a printer driver management means for managing the printer driver for the printer to be managed, and the client device connected to the network. Client management means for managing, and dynamic installation means for installing the printer driver in the client device that issued the request,
The client device has means for issuing a printer driver installation request to the server device, and means for installing the printer driver received from the server device in its storage device.
[0125]
Furthermore, in the printer driver according to the present invention, the extension function module performs plug-in (addition or replacement), and the core module can use the function of the new extension function module even by the plug-in. The driver function can be expanded by the plug-in.
[0126]
Furthermore, in the printer driver according to the present invention, it is possible to create a printer driver having different functions or restrictions, that is, a customized printer driver set, by changing the configuration of the extended function module included in the driver set. is there.
[0127]
Furthermore, the server device according to the present invention has means for controlling (selecting) a printer to be installed for each client and means for controlling (selecting) an extended function to be installed for each client.
[0128]
Furthermore, the server device according to the present invention has means for releasing a list of each of the printer and the extended function managed by the server device to the client, and enabling each selection by the client.
[0129]
Further, the client device according to the present invention includes means for selecting necessary ones from the printer list and extended function list published by the server, and means for issuing a request for installing the selected printer and the extended function to the server. Have
[0130]
Further, the printer driver management unit according to the present invention stores a printer driver and an extended function module corresponding to a printer to be managed, and stores the acquired printer driver and the extended function module on a server memory. And means for selecting a printer driver required at the time of execution of installation.
[0131]
Further, the dynamic installation unit according to the present invention includes: a unit configured to transmit a printer set by the server device to the client device or the printer driver of the printer selected by the client device; and an output port for the client device. Means for installing the environment.
[0132]
Further, the dynamic installation means according to the present invention includes means for installing the entire printer driver set, and means for selecting and installing only a specific extended function module.
[0133]
Further, the printer management means according to the present invention includes means for searching for a printer on the network, and means for acquiring a name and an IP address from the searched printer.
[0134]
The printer according to the present invention further includes means for returning a name and an IP address in accordance with a search process from the server.
[0135]
Further, the client management means according to the present invention includes means for searching for a client device on a network and means for acquiring a name and an IP address from the searched client device, or performs automatic acquisition of information, or a server An administrator creates information manually on the device.
[0136]
Further, the client device according to the present invention includes means for returning a name and an IP address in accordance with a search process from the server, and means for returning a type of installed module in accordance with the search process from the server.
[0137]
【The invention's effect】
As described above, according to the present invention, the functions of the device driver installed in the client can be centrally managed in the server or the like. Therefore, the efficiency of management and the prevention of troubles due to the matching of functions in the entire network can be improved. It is possible to prevent inconvenience caused by each client user installing a program individually, such as a possibility that the system safety is lowered by a user operation.
[0138]
In addition, the client user can simply leave it to the server, issue a driver installation request, or select a printer to be used from the printer managed by the server and issue the request. Installation on the device and environment setting are performed automatically. Therefore, there is an effect that the user does not need any special knowledge or difficult operation.
[0139]
Furthermore, there is an effect that individual management for each client such as restriction of use of printers and functions or customization for each client can be performed in an integrated manner. Further, there is an effect that a customized printer driver set can be easily created.
[0140]
Furthermore, there is an effect that not only a new installation of a printer driver but also addition and change of a driver function can be easily processed without rebooting.
[0141]
Also, by installing from the server, the printer driver can be installed on the client device by remote processing from the server, so there is no need to operate the client side, so client users can be educated and the client device can be visited. This can reduce the labor required in the past.
[Brief description of the drawings]
FIG. 1 is a configuration example of a print processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating an internal configuration of the print processing system according to the embodiment.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a memory map of a RAM 2 in the embodiment.
FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a printer driver and a relationship with a system in the embodiment.
FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating an example of providing a customized printer driver set in the embodiment.
FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a transition of a driver configuration by plug-in installation in the embodiment.
FIG. 7 is a flowchart showing management table maintenance processing in the embodiment;
FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an information management table in the embodiment.
FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen for the IT manager in the embodiment to manage a printer and a client.
FIG. 10 is a flowchart showing pull installation processing at the client in the first embodiment.
FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen for a client user to execute pull installation processing in the embodiment.
FIG. 12 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen for the IT manager in the embodiment to manage a printer and a client.
FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating an example of a UI screen for a client user to execute a pull installation process in the embodiment.
FIG. 14 is a flowchart of a pull installation processing procedure in the server and the client in the first embodiment.
FIG. 15 is a detailed flowchart of a management table creation procedure in the server according to the embodiment;
FIG. 16 is a flowchart showing push installation processing at a server in the second embodiment;
FIG. 17 is a flowchart of a push installation process procedure in the server and the client in the second embodiment.

Claims (5)

An installation method of a program executed in a server device having a designation unit and an installation unit,
A designating step in which the designating unit designates an extended function program having an individual function for extending a client device and a driver core function for controlling a device communicating with the client device;
An installation step in which the installation unit causes the client device specified in the specifying step to install the extension function program specified in the specifying step by transmitting from the server device to the client device among the client devices. And
Wherein the designation step, for each of the client device, a specified device to be controlled of the extended function program, Ri specification and can der extensions programs available per the device is permitted,
How in the installation process, extended function program installation was allowed for the specified client device is permitted utilized device, characterized in Rukoto installed for the specified client.   In the installation step, the extended function program is installed in the client device designated in the designation step according to the designation of the client device designated in the designation step and the installation start instruction. The method of claim 1. A server device that provides a program that is remotely installed on a client device,
A designation unit for designating an extension function program having an individual function for extending a core function of a driver for controlling a client apparatus and a device for controlling a device communicating with the client apparatus;
Installation means for installing the client apparatus specified by the specifying means from the client apparatus by transmitting the extended function program specified by the specifying means from the server apparatus to the client apparatus;
The designation unit, for each of the client device, a specified device to be controlled of the extended function program, Ri specification and can der extensions programs available per the device is permitted,
The installation unit, server unit, wherein the installation to Rukoto against was allowed to install the device in which use is granted for the specified client system extension program is the designated client. The installation unit, claims the following designation and installation start instruction of the specified client device by specifying means and installed to Rukoto extended function program for a given client device by said specifying means 4. The server device according to 3 . The program for implement | achieving the server apparatus of Claim 3 or 4 with a computer.

Images