JP4641392B2 - Control device, communication processing method, and program - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to a control device, a communication processing method, and a program.

  A so-called host-based printer that performs rendering and print control of a print image on a host computer is known. For example, a host-based printer can be configured with an image memory having a very small capacity compared to a page description language printer that performs rendering itself, which has sufficient memory to rasterize one page.

  In addition, since the host computer also performs print control, the ROM capacity and CPU processing capacity are less than the page description language printer and have lower performance, so that the functions can be sufficiently satisfied. That is, it is possible to provide a printer at a lower cost than the above-described page description language printer.

  On the other hand, the page description language printer generally has a status such as the product name of the printer and the total number of printed pages, for example, a network interface card (optionally added) as described in Patent Document 1 below. (Hereinafter, NIC) a print server name, a registered IP address, and a print function for confirming a configuration such as a font list (see Patent Document 1 below).

  In most cases, the status and configuration are printed by the user operating an operation panel prepared in advance in the apparatus.

  The status and configuration printing is a function required also in the above-described host-based printer. However, since host-based printers provide printers at low cost, functions are often realized without adding a dedicated operation panel.

  In addition to the above, if the printer can be mounted with an NIC even if it is an option, a function for changing the NIC configuration itself, such as an IP address, is implemented. A host-based printer that does not have a dedicated operation panel in order to provide a device at low cost is configured so that the configuration can be changed via the network using a network management tool.

  On the other hand, in the case of the above page description language printer, in addition to being able to change the configuration via a network using a dedicated tool, if the user operates an operation panel prepared in advance on the device, the device can be changed alone. Is also possible.

  For example, in the case of printing the status, the user is made to select the status printing from a dedicated tool prepared on the host PC that is locally connected by USB or the like. When the status print is selected by the user, the tool on the PC requests a status from the printer using a predetermined command via the USB.

  Upon receiving the request, the controller unit of the printer returns the status requested to the local host PC via USB as a command response, and then the tool on the local host processes the returned status into a print image. This is realized by executing a printing operation similar to normal local printing.

  On the other hand, in the case of a host-based printer to which a NIC is added, the user can print the printer status print using the same tool prepared on the client PC connected via the network as that on the local host PC. It is also possible to request.

  At this time, whether the NIC is simply inserted between the local host PC and the printer controller unit without providing a dedicated protocol between the client PC and the NIC or between the NIC and the printer controller unit. If configured to operate as described above, the controller unit of the printer can be provided at a lower cost.

  In other words, the NIC on the printer side receives the command issued from the tool of the client PC and passes it directly to the controller unit of the printer. The controller unit of the printer returns the status to the NIC as a response to the command as in the case of USB.

  Upon receiving the status returned from the controller unit of the printer, the printer NIC transfers the status returned from the controller unit as a response to the previous command to the requesting client PC via the network. The transferred status is processed into a print image by a tool on the client PC, and is printed on paper by executing a print operation similar to normal network printing.

For example, when printing the NIC configuration, the user is allowed to select the configuration print from a dedicated tool prepared on the client PC connected via the network. When configuration printing is selected by the user, the tool uses a predetermined command to request configuration from the NIC on the printer side. Upon receiving the request, the printer-side NIC returns the requested configuration to the client PC as a response to the command, and then the tool on the client processes the returned configuration into a print image to perform normal network printing. This is realized by executing a similar printing operation.
JP 09-179699 A

  However, in order to provide a printer controller unit at a lower cost, a dedicated protocol is used between the client PC and the NIC or between the NIC and the printer controller unit as described in the status printing via the network. In the case of a host-based printer configured to operate as if the NIC was simply inserted between the local host PC and the printer controller unit, the NIC configuration is changed to the local Printing could not be performed based on a request from the host PC.

  In other words, when the printer controller is configured to receive a command and return a response without specifically distinguishing whether the interface is via USB or NIC, for example, the NIC configuration acquisition by the local host PC via USB In response to the request, the configuration contents could not be acquired from the printer-side NIC via the network.

  As another problem, in the case of a host-based printer having the same configuration as described above, the configuration of the NIC cannot be changed based on a request from the local host PC unless some measures are taken.

  For example, when a device is moved with an IP address set, if there is already a network device with the same IP address set at the move destination, the IP address can only be changed via the network. If this is not possible, it is very inconvenient that an independent local area network environment must be established and the IP address must be changed before connecting to a regular network.

  The present invention has been made to solve the above-described problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a second information processing apparatus that performs a first information processing apparatus connected via a local interface via a network. It is to provide a mechanism for performing virtual communication processing.

  The control device according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration.

  A network controller that communicates with the control device via a predetermined network and responds to the request for the state of the network controller received from the second information processing device without going through the control device And a printer connected internally, communicate with the first information processing apparatus via a predetermined local interface, and further communicate with a network controller that communicates with the second information processing apparatus to perform predetermined processing. A control apparatus that receives a request for the state of the network controller from the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface, and sets the request as a parameter of a command corresponding to the network controller. Notification means for notifying the network controller; As a response to the notification of the command by the notifying means, receiving means for receiving response information corresponding to the network controller, which is responded from the network controller, and information extracted from the response information received by the receiving means A return unit that is set as a response parameter to the network controller status request and returns to the first information processing device via the predetermined local interface, and the first information processing device, In response to the same instruction via the same user interface provided in each of the second information processing apparatuses, the request for the state of the network controller is transmitted from the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus, respectively, to the control apparatus. To the network controller Is the fact characterized.

  A network controller according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration.

  A communication control device that communicates with a first information processing device via a predetermined local interface or a network controller that can communicate with a second information processing device via a predetermined network, via the predetermined local interface A receiving unit that receives a command corresponding to the network controller generated by the communication control device based on a predetermined request from the acquired first information processing device, and a command that corresponds to the network controller received by the receiving unit And executing means for generating response information to be returned to the first information processing apparatus in response to a command corresponding to the network controller and transferring the response information to the communication control apparatus. To do.

  An information processing system according to the present invention that achieves the above object has the following configuration.

  A control device that communicates with a first information processing device via a predetermined local interface, and a network controller that communicates with a second information processing device via a predetermined network, the control device communicates with the network In the information processing system, the control device receives a predetermined request from the first information processing device via the predetermined local interface, and sets a command corresponding to the network controller as a parameter of the request. Notification means for notifying the network controller, receiving means for receiving response information corresponding to the network controller, which is returned from the network controller as a response to the command notification by the notification means, and the receiving means Received by Return means for setting information extracted from answer information as a parameter of the predetermined request and returning the information to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface, the network controller comprising: Receiving means for receiving a command corresponding to the network controller generated by the communication control apparatus based on a predetermined request from the first information processing apparatus acquired via the predetermined local interface; and the receiving means Execution means for executing a command corresponding to the received network controller, and transfer for generating response information to be returned to the first information processing apparatus in response to the command corresponding to the network controller and transferring the response information to the communication control apparatus Means.

  According to the present invention, the first information processing apparatus connected via the local interface can be virtually communicated with the second information processing apparatus performed via the network.

  Next, the best mode for carrying out the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram showing the configuration of an information processing system to which an image forming apparatus (hereinafter referred to as a printer) showing an embodiment of the present invention can be applied.

  In FIG. 1, a printer 1000 is connected to a local PC 2000 via a USB cable 6000. The printer 1000 includes a NIC, has a network connection function, and can communicate with the NTP server 3000, the client PC 4000, the client PC 5000, and the like via the network 7000.

  The client PC 4000 and the client PC 5000 include a controller board including a so-called CPU, RAM, and ROM. The CPU makes a predetermined OS stored in a hard disk or the like resident on the RAM, executes various applications, and performs a printer. It is configured to be able to perform printing control via a driver.

[First Embodiment]
Hereinafter, the printer configuration and the flow of the print processing operation in the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 2 and FIG.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the printer 1000 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 1 are denoted by the same reference numerals.

  FIG. 3 is a block diagram for explaining a software configuration of the local PC 2000 that can communicate with the printer 1000 shown in FIG. 1, and the same components as those in FIG. 2 are denoted by the same reference numerals. The resources provided in the local PC 2000 are also provided in the same manner as the client 4000 shown in FIG. 1, and FIG. 3 shows an example in which the local PC 2000 is representative.

  2, the printer 1000 mainly includes a controller unit 1100, a network interface card (hereinafter referred to as NIC) 1200, and an engine unit 1300.

  The printer 1000 assumes that print image rendering and print control are executed by the driver 2200 and the language monitor 2300 shown in FIG. 3 described later, which operate on a computer such as the local PC 2000 or the client PC 4000 or the client PC 5000. Designed.

  Therefore, the controller unit 1100 includes only a CPU 1110, ASIC 1120, SDRAM 1130, EEPROM 1140, and USB connector 1150.

  The CPU 1110 includes a ROM 1111 and a RAM 1112 having a very small capacity compared to a printer that performs rendering and print control, and a serial controller 1113 for performing serial communication with the engine unit 1300.

  The ROM 1111 stores various control programs and various initial values. In addition to the work area, the RAM 1112 has an area for storing data excluding image data handled by the controller unit 1100. Since the RAM 1112 is a volatile RAM, limited information such as various counter values that must be retained even when the power is turned off is stored in the EEPROM 1140.

  The ASIC 1120 is a package in which the CPU i / f 1121, the image processing unit 1122, the memory controller 1123, the USB controller 1124, and the NIC controller 1125 are combined into one.

  For example, when the printing process is executed by the application 2100 on the local PC 2000, the driver 2200 shown in FIG. 3 is activated, and print image data is generated using hardware resources and RAM (not shown). Then, the generated image data is transferred to the language monitor 2300. The language monitor 2300 uses the USB port monitor 2500 and the USB cable based on various commands for controlling printing and a predetermined protocol for the generated image data. The data is transferred to the controller unit 1100 of the printer 1000 via 6000.

  In the printer 1000, commands and data transferred via the USB port monitor 2500 and the USB cable 6000 are received by the USB controller 1124 via the USB cable 6000 and the USB connector 1150.

  The CPU 1110 constantly monitors the state of the USB controller 1124 via the CPU i / f 1211. If a command is received, processing corresponding to the command is executed.

  If the CPU 1110 determines that a command requiring a response has been received, the CPU 1110 controls the USB controller 1124 via the CPU i / f 1211 and returns the response status data to the local PC 2000.

  The returned status is passed to the language monitor 2300 via the USB cable 6000 and the USB port monitor 2500, and the contents are further notified to the status window 2400. The status window 2400 appropriately displays a printer and printing status on a display unit (not shown) of the local PC 2000 according to the notified status.

  On the other hand, when the CPU 1110 receives a command for transferring the rendered print image, the CPU 1110 controls the USB controller 1124 and the memory controller 1123 to store the image data following the command in the SDRAM 1130.

  When a certain amount of image data is stored in the SDRAM 1130, the language monitor 2300 issues an activation request command for the engine unit 1300. If the CPU 1110 recognizes the command, the serial controller 1113 is controlled to notify the engine unit 1300 of a startup request. If the CPU 1110 is notified via the serial controller 1113 that the engine unit 1300 has been normally started and the paper has been properly conveyed, the memory controller 1123 and the image processing unit 1122 are controlled and stored in the SDRAM 1130. The image data converted into a VIDEO signal required by the engine unit 1300 for the actual printing operation is sent to the engine unit 1300.

  Here, the engine unit 1300 includes a CPU 1310 that controls the operation of the entire engine unit, a serial controller 1320 that performs communication with the controller unit 1100, and a VIDEO control unit 1330 that receives a VIDEO signal transmitted from the controller unit 1100. SDRAM 1340 for holding values indicating work area and various states, FLASHRAM 1350 for storing programs executed by CPU 1310 and various table values to be referred to, paper transport system, toner supply system, laser beam system, fixing device system The recording unit 1360 is composed of the above.

  When the CPU 1310 receives a start request for the recording unit 1360 or a paper transport request from the controller unit 1100, the CPU 1310 controls the recording unit 1360 as appropriate and notifies the controller unit 1100 of the state as necessary.

  If image formation is started, the VIDEO control unit 1330 is controlled to supply the VIDEO signal passed from the controller unit 1100 to the recording unit 1360 to form an image.

  Further, the engine unit 1300 is provided with a mechanical mechanism for enabling double-sided printing. For example, when printing a two-page document on one sheet of recording paper on both sides, the language monitor 2300 sets parameters for requesting feeding from the normal feeding port and discharging to the duplex unit when printing the first side. Issuing the set print control command, and issuing a similar command in which parameters for requesting paper feed from the duplex unit and paper discharge to the normal paper discharge port are set when the second side is printed. Realized.

  Since the detailed operation is the same as that of a known electrophotographic engine and is not directly related to the present invention, a more detailed description is omitted.

  Also, the status window 2400 shown in FIG. 3 is configured to be able to receive user operation requests such as temporary stop or cancellation of printing, and the request is appropriately transmitted to a language monitor 2300. .

  Note that a print request for the configuration of the NIC 1200 that is the background of the present invention is also made using the status window 2400. The language monitor 2300 transfers a command corresponding to the transmitted operation request to the printer 1000 via the USB port monitor 2500 and the USB cable 6000 based on the predetermined protocol, and is transferred by the controller unit 1100 as described above. Processing according to the command is executed.

  On the other hand, the NIC 1200 is executed by a CPU 1210 for controlling the operation of the entire NIC 1200, a controller communication unit 1220 for controlling communication with the controller unit 1100, an SDRAM 1230 for holding values indicating work areas and various states, and the CPU 1210. A FLASH RAM 1240 for storing programs and various table values to be referred to, and a network communication unit 1250 for controlling the entire network communication based on TCP / IP.

  One of the roles of the NIC 1200 is to mediate between the client PC 4000 and the client PC 5000 and the controller unit 1100.

  In each of the client PCs 4000 and 5000, in addition to the same software as the driver 2200 and the language monitor 2300 on the local PC 2000, a network port monitor (Network Port Monitor) 2600 is operating instead of the USB port monitor 2500.

  Various commands and image data issued from the language monitor 2300 are transmitted to the NIC 1200 via the network port monitor 2600 and the network 7000. A command received by the NIC 1200 at the network communication unit 1250 is passed to the controller unit 1100 by controlling the controller communication unit 1220.

  Similar to the USB controller 1124, the controller unit 1100 always monitors the NIC controller 1125, processes the received command in the same manner as in the case of the USB, and transmits status data to the NIC 1200 via the NIC controller 1125 as necessary. Return to.

  The NIC 1200 controls the network communication unit 1250 to return the status data received by the controller communication unit 1220 to the client that issued the command. The returned status is transferred from the language monitor 2300 to the status window 2400 and displayed as appropriate, as in the case of processing by USB. The exchange of image data is the same as in the case of the USB processing.

  Another role of the NIC 1200 is to access the NTP Server 3000 based on the known NTP in RFC-1305 to acquire time information, and to transmit the contents to the controller unit 1100 as a command. The address of the NTP server 3000 can be set to start the web server installed in the NIC 1200.

  The set address information is stored on the FLASH RAM 1240 and is retained even when the power is turned off. Note that TCP / IP control and NTP processing are well-known and are not directly related to the present invention, so a more detailed description is omitted.

  In the present embodiment, the sub interface means described later includes a network interface card based on TCP / IP.

  Further, the contents that can be set from the local PC 2000 are that the secondary interface means is a TCP / IP network interface card, and the setting contents of the secondary interface means are the IP address, netmask, and default gateway address. Etc. are also included.

  In the information processing system configured as described above, the local PC 2000 functioning as the first information processing apparatus communicates with the client PC 4000, 5000 via a predetermined local interface, for example, the USB cable 6000 or the network 7000. In the controller unit 1100 that performs predetermined processing by communicating with the network controller (NIC) 1200, a predetermined request received from the local PC 2000 via the USB cable 6000, for example, any request including status acquisition or environment setting of the NIC 1200 Is set to a command that can be analyzed by the NIC 1200, the response information returned from the NIC 1200 is received in response to the notification, and the response information for a predetermined request extracted from the received response information By setting and sending it back to the local PC 2000 via the USB cable 6000, the local PC 2000 performs a communication process substantially equivalent to a request and response during communication with the client PC 4000 or the like connected to the NIC 1200. Necessary information can be freely acquired directly from the NIC 1200 via the 6000. In addition, since a new communication function is not added to the network controller 1200, a locally connectable local PC 2000 can be virtualized with a network device connected to the NIC 1200 while using the highly versatile NIC 1200. Can be constructed at low cost and freely.

  The controller unit 1100 that communicates with the local PC 2000 via the USB cable 6000 as a predetermined local interface, or the NIC 1200 that can communicate with the client PC 4000 via the predetermined network 7000 is acquired via the USB cable 6000. After receiving a predetermined command generated by the controller unit 1100 based on a predetermined request from the local PC 2000 and executing the predetermined command, response information to be returned to the local PC 2000 is generated in response to the predetermined command. By transferring the request to the controller unit 1100, a request from the locally connected local PC 2000 can be performed by the same communication process as the request from the network controller 1200.

  In addition, the local PC 2000 that is locally connected can behave as if it is a network device with respect to the NIC 1200 by communication processing almost equivalent to the request and response during communication with the client PC 4000 or the like connected to the NIC 1200. .

  Furthermore, in an information processing system that includes a controller unit 1100 that communicates with the local PC 2000 via the USB cable 6000 and a NIC 1200 that can communicate with the client PC 4000 and the like via the predetermined network 7000, and performs predetermined data processing, the USB cable A predetermined request received from the local PC 2000 via the 6000 is set and notified as a command that can be analyzed by the NIC 1200. After executing the predetermined command in response to the notification, the predetermined command is returned to the local PC 2000. When the response information to be generated is transferred to the controller unit 1100, the response information for the predetermined request extracted from the received response information is set and returned to the local PC 2000 via the USB cable 6000. By The Cal PC 2000 can freely acquire necessary information directly from the NIC 1200 via the USB cable 6000 by communication processing almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with the client PC 4000 or the like connected to the NIC 1200. it can. Further, since a new communication function is not added to the NIC 1200, a system in which a locally connected local PC 2000 and a network device connected to the NIC 1200 are virtualized while using a highly versatile network controller is also inexpensive. And it can be built freely.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining an example of a user interface by the status window 2400 shown in FIG. 3, and corresponds to, for example, a user interface example when selecting a NIC status print (configuration print).

  In FIG. 4, M1 is an option menu corresponding to a state in which network status print is selected from the utility. Although the operation is not particularly illustrated, the operation is selected by operating a pointing device as an input device.

  FIG. 5 is a diagram for explaining a network status print sequence in the image forming system according to the present invention. When a status print of the NIC 1200 is requested, each of the local PC 2000, the controller unit 1100, the NIC 1200, and the client PC 4000, 5000 is shown. Corresponds to the commands exchanged between them and the response flow. In the figure, ClientX indicates one of the client PCs 4000 and 5000.

  Hereinafter, the flow until the local PC 2000 or the client PC 4000 or 5000 acquires the configuration data of the NIC 1200 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3, 4, and 5.

  As shown in FIG. 4, when “network status print...” Is selected from the menu M 1 of the status window 2400 based on the pointing device selection operation by the user, the NIC 1200 configuration print request is sent to the language monitor 2300. Is reported.

  If the language monitor 2300 and the status window 2400 are operating on the client PC 4000 or the client PC 5000 connected to the printer 1000 via the network 7000, commands / responses above the broken line shown in FIG. Is done.

  That is, the language monitor 2300 issues a command CMD_Get_NIC_Config as shown in FIG. 5 via the network port monitor 2600 in order to request the NIC 1200 to obtain configuration data. As described with reference to FIGS. 2 and 3, the NIC 1200 generates configuration data in accordance with the command CMD_Get_NIC_Config at each unit, and returns a response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) having the configuration data generated in the parameter unit.

  The language monitor 2300 that has received the response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) extracts the configuration data portion (DATA) from the response and processes the extracted data using the driver (Driver) 2200 into a print image. A printing operation similar to normal network printing is executed.

[Status processing from local PC via USB]
On the other hand, if the language monitor 2300 and the status window 2400 are operating on the local PC 2000 connected to the printer 1000 via the USB cable 6000, commands or responses below the broken line shown in FIG. The

  That is, in order to request the NIC 1200 to acquire configuration data, the language monitor 2300 first sends a command CMD_Req_NIC_Function () that notifies the controller unit 1100 that there is a request for the NIC 1200 via the USB port monitor 2500. CMD_Get_NIC_Config) is issued.

  The present embodiment is characterized in that “CMD_Get_NIC_Config”, which is the same as the command issued by the language monitor 2300 operating on the client PC 4000 or the client PC 5000, is set in the parameter section as it is.

  That is, when the controller unit 1100 of the printer 1000 receives the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function from the local PC 2000 via the USB connector 1150, it holds the parameter part “CMD_Get_NIC_Config”, and the NIC 1200 acquires the state of the controller unit 1100. In response to the command CMD_Get_Common_Status that is periodically issued, a response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags) in which a flag Flags indicating that there is a parameter part of CMD_Req_NIC_Function not yet notified to the NIC 1200 is set in the parameter part is returned.

  The NIC 1200 having received the fact that there is an unreported “CMD_Req_NIC_Function” parameter part in the parameter part of the response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags), issues a command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function to the controller unit 1100 in order to acquire unnotified content.

  The controller unit 1100 that has received the command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 returns a response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Config) in which “CMD_Get_NIC_Config” previously held in the parameter unit is set as it is.

  Upon receiving the response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function from the controller unit 1100, the NIC 1200 extracts the parameter unit (the above command, CMD_Get_NIC_Config is structured), and operates as if it is a command to generate the response. .

  That is, in the present embodiment, the NIC 1200 operates as if it receives the command CMD_Get_NIC_Config, and generates a response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) having NIC configuration data in the parameter part.

  Further, the NIC 1200 returns a response “CMD_Ack_NIC_Function (RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA))” in which the generated response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) is set in the parameter part to the controller unit 1100.

  This means that on the Local PC 2000, a command functioning as a response functioning as a response to the CMD_Set_NIC_Config command transmitted as a parameter of the CMD_Req_NICFunction command transmitted earlier is returned.

  Then, the controller unit 1100 that has received the CMD_Ack_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 receives the first command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Configuration) as a response to the command CMD_Ack_NIC_Function_PC_R_Q_Re_Response_SP_Qt_Q_Re_Response_SP To do.

  FIG. 6 is a flowchart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. The configuration acquisition processing procedure for the NIC 1200 between the controller unit 1100 and the local PC 2000 shown in FIG. Correspond. In addition, (1)-(15) show each step, and each step is implement | achieved when CPU1110 of the controller part 1100 shown in FIG.

  First, it is determined from the language monitor 2300 of the local PC 2000 shown in FIG. 2 whether or not the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Config) is received to request the NIC 1200 to acquire configuration data (1), and the command is accepted. If it is determined that it is not, it waits for the input of the command.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (1) that the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Config) is received, the parameter part “CMD_Get_NIC_Config” is held (2), and the NIC 1200 periodically acquires the status of the controller unit 1100. The system waits for reception of a command CMD_Get_Common_Status that is issued automatically (3).

  Then, when the controller unit 1100 receives the command CMD_Get_Common_Status, it returns a response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags) in which a flag Flags indicating that there is a parameter part of CMD_Req_NIC_Function not yet notified to the NIC 1200 is set in the parameter part (4).

  When the NIC 1200 receives that the parameter portion of the unreported “CMD_Req_NIC_Function” exists in the parameter portion of the response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags) (5), the command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function is sent to the controller unit 1100 to acquire the unreported content. Issue (6).

  Next, the controller unit 1100 sets “CMD_Get_NIC_Config” previously held in the parameter unit that received the command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 as it is (7), and sends a response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Config) to the NIC 1200 (returned to the NIC 1200).

  Then, the NIC 1200 extracts the parameter part (the command, CMD_Get_NIC_Config is structured) (9), operates as if it is a command, and generates a response (10).

  That is, in the present embodiment, the NIC 1200 operates as if it receives the command CMD_Get_NIC_Config, and generates a response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) having NIC configuration data in the parameter part.

  Further, the NIC 1200 sets the generated response RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA) in the parameter unit to the controller unit 1100 (11), and returns a response “CMD_Ack_NIC_Function (RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA))” (12).

  When receiving the CMD_Ack_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 (13), the controller unit 1100 sets the parameter _N of the command CMD_Ack_NIC_Function as the response of the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Get_NIC_Configuration) (i_SP) as the response of the command CMD_Ack_NIC_Function (N_SP). DATA)) is returned to the local PC 2000 (15), and the process is terminated.

  The language monitor 2300 of the local PC 2000 that has received the response RSP_Req_NIC_Function (RSP_Get_NIC_Config (DATA)) in the above series of steps extracts the configuration data portion (DATA) from the response and extracts the data extracted using the driver 2200. The image is processed into a print image, and a printing operation similar to normal local printing is executed.

  In the host-based printer configured to operate as if the NIC 1200 is simply inserted between the local PC 2000 and the controller unit 1100 of the printer 1000 as described above, a command interpretable by the NIC 1200 is set in a parameter part of a specific command. By doing so, it is possible to acquire and print the configuration of the NIC 1200 based on the request of the local PC 2000 while minimizing the change in the configuration of the NIC 1200 as much as possible.

[Second Embodiment]
In the second embodiment, the acquisition and printing of the configuration of the NIC 1200 is taken as an example.

  However, the present invention is not limited to the status acquisition and status printing of the option board as described above.

  For example, this technique is also effective for the function of setting the configuration of the NIC 1200 from the local PC 2000. The embodiment will be described below with reference to FIG.

  FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram for explaining a second data processing procedure in the image forming system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. For example, when configuration setting of the NIC 1200 is requested from the local PC 2000, the local PC 2000, This corresponds to an example of a command or response flow exchanged between the controller unit 1100 and the NIC 1200. In addition, the same code | symbol is attached | subjected to the same thing as FIG.

  When the user selects the NIC 1200 configuration setting such as an IP address using the status window 2400 operating on the local PC 2000 connected to the printer 1000 via the USB cable 6000, the command shown in FIG. Responses are exchanged.

  That is, the language monitor 2300 that has received a request from the status window 2400 requests the NIC 1200 to set configuration data. First, the local PC 2000 sends a request to the controller unit 1100 via the USB port monitor 2500. A command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)) For notifying that there is a request for the NIC 1200 is issued.

  In the parameter part of this command, “CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)”, Which is a command that can be analyzed by the NIC 1200, is set as it is in the parameter part as in the case of the configuration printing for the NIC 1200 in the first embodiment. It is a feature.

  When the controller unit 1100 receives the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function from the local PC 2000, the controller unit 1100 holds “CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)” Of the parameter unit, and the NIC 1200 periodically acquires the status of the controller unit 1100. In response to the issued command CMD_Get_Common_Status, a response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags) in which a flag indicating that the parameter part of CMD_Req_NIC_Function that has not been notified to the NIC 1200 exists in the parameter part is returned.

  The NIC 1200 having received that there is an unreported parameter section (CMD_Req_NIC_Function) in the parameter section of the response RSP_Get_Common_Status (Flags) from the controller section 1100, sends a command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function to the controller section 1100 in order to acquire unreported contents. Issue.

  Upon receiving the command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200, the controller unit 1100 returns a response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Config) (IP,...) (IP,.

  Then, the NIC 1200 that has received the response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function from the controller unit 1100 extracts the parameter part, and operates as if it is a command to generate the response.

  In other words, according to the present embodiment, it operates as if it receives the command CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...), Sets the configuration such as the IP address specified in the parameter section in the NIC 1200, and when the setting is completed, A response RSP_Set_NIC_Config that notifies the effect is generated.

  Further, the NIC 1200 returns a response of CMD_Ack_NIC_Function (RSP_Set_NIC_Config) in which “RSP_Set_NIC_Config” of the generated response is set as a parameter part to the controller unit 1100.

  Then, the controller unit 1100 that has received CMD_Ack_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 first receives the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Configuration) received from the local PC 2000.

  FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. The setting processing procedure for the NIC 1200 (option board) between the controller unit 1100 and the local PC 2000 shown in FIG. Corresponding to Note that (21) to (36) indicate steps, and each step is realized by executing a control program read from the ROM 1112 by the CPU 1110 of the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG.

  First, whether a command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)) For notifying the controller unit 1100 that there is a request for the NIC 1200 is received via the USB port monitor 2500 issued from the local PC 2000. (21), if it is determined that the command has not been received, input of the command is awaited.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step (21) that the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)) Has been received, the controller unit 1100 displays “CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...)” (22), and waits to receive a command CMD_Get_Common_Status periodically issued to obtain the state of the controller unit 1100 from the NIC 1200 (23). When the command CMD_Get_Common_Status is received from the NIC 1200, the NIC 1200 receives the command CMD_Get_Common_Status. Set a flag in the parameter part to notify that there is a parameter part of unreported CMD_Req_NIC_Function (24), Suponsu RSP_Get_Common_Status the (Flags) to return to the NIC1200 (25).

  When the NIC 1200 receives from the controller unit 1100 that there is an unreported parameter unit (CMD_Req_NIC_Function) (26), the NIC 1200 issues a command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function to the controller unit 1100 in order to acquire unreported content. (27).

  Then, the controller unit 1100 sets the previously held CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...) As it is in the parameter unit that has received the command CMD_Tell_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 (28), and the response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC.IP.) (CMD_Set_NIC.IP.) Is returned to the NIC 1200 (29).

  Then, the NIC 1200 extracts the parameter part of the response RSP_Tell_NIC_Function returned from the controller unit 1100 (30), and operates as if it is a command to generate the response (31).

  In other words, according to the present embodiment, it operates as if it receives the command CMD_Set_NIC_Config (IP,...), Sets the configuration such as the IP address specified in the parameter section in the NIC 1200, and when the setting is completed, A response RSP_Set_NIC_Config that notifies the effect is generated.

  Further, the NIC 1200 sets “RSP_Set_NIC_Config” of the generated response to the controller unit 1100 in the parameter unit (32), and returns a response CMD_Ack_NIC_Function (RSP_Set_NIC_Config) to the controller unit 1100 (33).

  Then, when the controller unit 1100 receives CMD_Ack_NIC_Function from the NIC 1200 (34), as the response of the command CMD_Req_NIC_Function (CMD_Set_NIC_Configuration) received from the local PC 2000 first, the parameter _N_ of the CMD_Ack_NIC_Function is set as the response, and the parameter C of the CMD_Ack_NIC_Function ) Is returned to the local PC 2000 (36), and this process is terminated.

  As described above, in the host-based printer configured to operate as if the NIC was simply inserted between the local PC and the controller unit of the printer, a command that can be interpreted by the NIC is a parameter part of a specific command. Thus, the NIC configuration can be changed based on the request of the local PC while minimizing the change of the NIC configuration as much as possible.

  In the above embodiment, the NIC is taken as an example of the option board. However, the present invention is not limited to NIC. For example, the same effect can be obtained even when applied to an option board compatible with a wireless communication interface such as BlueTooth (trade name).

  In the above-described embodiment, an example in which one option board is added has been described. However, the present invention can be applied to a plurality of option boards such as NIC and Bluetooth (registered trademark).

  According to each of the above embodiments, for example, a host-based printer in which a NIC is set as an option board, and a dedicated protocol is not provided between the client PC and the NIC or between the NIC and the controller unit of the printer. In the host base printer that is configured to operate as if the NIC was simply inserted between the local host PC and the controller unit of the printer and that does not have a dedicated operation panel, the configuration of the option board is minimized. However, it is possible to provide an apparatus and method that can acquire and change the setting contents of the option board based on the request of the local host PC.

  The configuration of a data processing program that can be read by the image processing system according to the present invention will be described below with reference to the memory map shown in FIG.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs readable by the image forming system according to the present invention.

  Although not specifically shown, 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.

  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.

  The functions shown in FIGS. 6 and 8 in the present 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.

  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.

  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.

  Therefore, as long as it has the function of the program, the form of the program such as an object code, a program executed by an interpreter, or script data supplied to the OS is not limited.

  As a storage medium for supplying the program, for example, a flexible disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, MO, CD-ROM, CD-R, CD-RW, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, ROM, DVD, etc. Can be used.

  In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

  As another program supply method, a browser of a client computer is used to connect to a homepage on the Internet, and the computer program itself of the present invention or a compressed file including an automatic installation function is stored on a recording medium such as a hard disk from the homepage It can also be supplied by downloading. It can also be realized by dividing the program code constituting the program of the present invention into a plurality of files and downloading each file from a different homepage. That is, a WWW server, an ftp server, and the like that allow a plurality of users to download a program file for realizing the functional processing of the present invention on a computer are also included in the claims of the present invention.

  In addition, the program of the present invention is encrypted, stored in a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, distributed to users, and key information for decryption is downloaded from a homepage via the Internet to users who have cleared predetermined conditions. It is also possible to execute the encrypted program by using the key information and install the program on a computer.

  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.

  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.

  The present invention is not limited to the above embodiments, and various modifications (including organic combinations of the embodiments) are possible based on the spirit of the present invention, and these are excluded from the scope of the present invention. is not.

  Although various examples and embodiments of the present invention have been shown and described, the spirit and scope of the present invention are not limited to the specific descriptions in the present specification by those skilled in the art.

  Note that the present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiment, and it is needless to say that various modifications can be made without departing from the gist of the present invention. Hereinafter, Embodiments 1 to 16 will be described.

[Embodiment 1]
The second information processing is performed via the first information processing apparatus (for example, the local PC 2000 shown in FIG. 2) and a predetermined local interface (for example, the USB interface) or via a predetermined network (for example, the network 7000 shown in FIG. 2). A control device that performs predetermined processing by communicating with a network controller (for example, NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2) that communicates with a device (for example, client PC 4000, 5000), and the first information via the predetermined local interface Notification means (for example, the NIC controller 1125 in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2) for notifying a predetermined request received from the processing device by setting it as a command that can be analyzed by the network controller; , The network controller Receiving means (for example, the NIC controller 1125 in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2) that receives response information returned from the rollers, and response information for the predetermined request extracted from the response information received by the receiving means. And a return means (for example, a USB controller 1124 in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2) that returns to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. .

  As a result, the first information processing apparatus can perform necessary communication information directly from the network controller via a predetermined local interface in communication processing almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller. Can be freely acquired. Further, since no new communication function is added to the network controller, the first information processing apparatus connected locally is connected to the network controller while using a highly versatile network controller. Virtual systems can also be constructed at low cost and freely.

[Embodiment 2]
2. The control apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the notifying unit sets and notifies a command extracted from the predetermined request in a parameter part of a command for the second information processing apparatus.

  Thereby, the request from the first information processing apparatus connected locally can be performed by the same communication process as the request from the network controller.

  In addition, the first information processing apparatus connected locally has a communication process almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller, as if it were a network device to the network controller. Can behave.

[Embodiment 3]
The return means sets the command extracted from the response information received from the second information processing apparatus by the receiving means to the response information, and sends the first information processing via the predetermined local interface. The control device according to embodiment 1, wherein the control device is returned to the device.

  Thereby, a response to the request from the first information processing apparatus connected locally can be performed by the same communication process as the response from the network controller.

  In addition, the first information processing apparatus connected locally has a communication process almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller, as if it were a network device to the network controller. Can behave.

[Embodiment 4]
The control apparatus according to the first embodiment, wherein the predetermined request is a request for acquiring the state of the network controller (step (2) shown in FIG. 6).

  Accordingly, the necessary information can be directly acquired from the network controller by the same processing as the information acquisition processing from the locally connected first information processing device.

[Embodiment 5]
The control apparatus according to the first embodiment, wherein the predetermined request includes a request for setting the network controller or a request for changing the setting (step (24) shown in FIG. 8).

  As a result, the first information processing device directly controls the setting of the network controller from the first information processing device connected locally or the change processing thereof to the network controller via the local interface. Can do.

[Embodiment 6]
A communication control device that communicates with the first information processing device via a predetermined local interface, or a network controller that can communicate with the second information processing device via a predetermined network, the communication controller being configured to communicate with the second information processing device via the predetermined local interface. Receiving means (the controller communication unit 1220 in the NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2) for receiving a predetermined command generated by the communication control device based on a predetermined request from the first information processing apparatus acquired in the The execution means (CPU 1210 in the NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2) for executing the command is generated, and response information to be returned to the first information processing apparatus in response to the predetermined command is generated and transferred to the communication control apparatus And a transfer unit (controller communication unit 1220 in the NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2). That.

  Thereby, the request from the first information processing apparatus connected locally can be performed by the same communication process as the request from the network controller.

  In addition, the first information processing apparatus connected locally has a communication process almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller, as if it were a network device to the network controller. Can behave.

[Embodiment 7]
Information processing that includes a control device that communicates with the first information processing device via a predetermined local interface and a network controller that can communicate with the second information processing device via a predetermined network and performs predetermined data processing In the system, the control device (for example, the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2) is a command that allows the network controller to analyze a predetermined request received from the first information processing device via the predetermined local interface. Notification means (for example, the NIC controller 1125 in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2) and reception means (for example, receiving response information returned from the network controller in response to the notification by the notification means) The NIC controller in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 1125) and return information set in response information to the predetermined request extracted from the response information received by the receiving means and returned to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface Means (for example, a USB controller 1125 in the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2), and the network controller is based on a predetermined request from the first information processing apparatus acquired via the predetermined local interface. Receiving means for receiving a predetermined command generated by the communication control device (controller communication unit 1220 in the NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2) and executing means for executing the predetermined command (CPU 1210 in the NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2) In response to the predetermined command, it should be returned to the first information processing apparatus. The information processing system characterized by comprising a transfer means for transferring to the communication control device to generate response information (controller communication unit 1220 in NIC1200 shown in FIG. 2).

  As a result, the first information processing apparatus can perform necessary communication information directly from the network controller via a predetermined local interface in communication processing almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller. Can be freely acquired. Further, since no new communication function is added to the network controller, the first information processing apparatus connected locally is connected to the network controller while using a highly versatile network controller. Virtual systems can also be constructed at low cost and freely.

[Embodiment 8]
A communication processing method in a control apparatus capable of communicating with a first information processing apparatus via a predetermined local interface and capable of communicating with a network controller communicating with a second information processing apparatus via a predetermined network. A notification step of setting a predetermined request received from the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface to a command that can be analyzed by the network controller (for example, a diagram executed by the CPU 1110 of the controller unit 1100) 6 (steps (6) to (8)) shown in FIG. 6 and a reception step of receiving response information returned from the network controller in response to the notification in the notification step (for example, FIG. 6 executed by the CPU 1110 of the controller unit 1100 Step (13)) and the reception step A return step (e.g., controller unit 1100) that sets the response information for the predetermined request extracted from the response information received by the backup to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. The CPU 1110 includes steps (14) and (15) shown in FIG.

  As a result, the first information processing apparatus can perform necessary communication information directly from the network controller via a predetermined local interface in communication processing almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller. Can be freely acquired. Further, since no new communication function is added to the network controller, the first information processing apparatus connected locally is connected to the network controller while using a highly versatile network controller. Virtual systems can also be constructed at low cost and freely.

[Embodiment 9]
The notification step includes setting and notifying a command extracted from the predetermined request (step (2) shown in FIG. 6) in a parameter part of a command to the second information processing apparatus. 9. The communication processing method according to 8.

  Thereby, the request from the first information processing apparatus connected locally can be performed by the same communication process as the request from the network controller.

  In addition, the first information processing apparatus connected locally has a communication process almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller, as if it were a network device to the network controller. Can behave.

[Embodiment 10]
In the returning step, a command extracted from the response information received from the second information processing apparatus in the receiving step is set in the response information (step (14) shown in FIG. 6). The predetermined local interface The communication processing method according to the eighth embodiment, wherein the communication processing method is returned to the first information processing apparatus via the network.

  Accordingly, the necessary information can be directly acquired from the network controller by the same processing as the information acquisition processing from the locally connected first information processing device.

[Embodiment 11]
The communication processing method according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined request is a request for acquiring a state of the network controller.

  Accordingly, the necessary information can be directly acquired from the network controller by the same processing as the information acquisition processing from the locally connected first information processing device.

[Embodiment 12]
9. The communication processing method according to claim 8, wherein the predetermined request includes a request for setting for the network controller or a request for changing the setting.

  As a result, the first information processing device directly controls the setting of the network controller from the first information processing device connected locally or the change processing thereof to the network controller via the local interface. Can do.

[Embodiment 13]
A communication processing method in a communication control apparatus that communicates with a first information processing apparatus via a predetermined local interface, or a network controller that can communicate with a second information processing apparatus via a predetermined network, A receiving step (step (9) shown in FIG. 6) for receiving a predetermined command generated by the communication control device based on a predetermined request from the first information processing device acquired via the local interface; An execution step of executing a predetermined command, and a transfer step of generating response information to be returned to the first information processing apparatus in response to the predetermined command and transferring it to the communication control apparatus (step (12 shown in FIG. 6) And a communication processing method.

  Thereby, the request from the first information processing apparatus connected locally can be performed by the same communication process as the request from the network controller.

  In addition, the first information processing apparatus connected locally has a communication process almost equivalent to a request and response during communication with a client connected to the network controller, as if it were a network device to the network controller. Can behave.

[Embodiment 14]
A computer-readable storage medium storing a program for executing the communication processing method according to any one of Embodiments 8 to 13.

  Thereby, the effect equivalent to Embodiment 8-13 can be anticipated.

[Embodiment 15]
A program that causes the communication processing method according to any one of Embodiments 8 to 13 to be executed.

  Thereby, the effect equivalent to Embodiment 8-13 can be anticipated.

[Embodiment 16]
Main interface means for connecting to at least one external information processing terminal (for example, USB cable 6000 shown in FIG. 2) and at least one external information processing terminal different from the at least one external information processing terminal For controlling communication between one or more sub interface means (for example, network 7000 in FIG. 2) and the plurality of external information processing terminals performed via the main interface means or the sub interface means In the control method in the image forming system having the control device (the controller unit 1100 shown in FIG. 2), when the control device receives the first command from the main interface means, it is added to the first command. Holds the contents of the first parameter (step shown in FIG. 6 2)) When the contents of the first parameter are held, the first parameter is held in one of the sub interface means specified by the first parameter. (Step (6) shown in FIG. 6) and when the second command is received from the sub interface means, the contents of the held first parameter are extracted, and the second command Is generated (step (7) shown in FIG. 6), and when the third command is received from the sub interface means, the third parameter added to the third command is added. Is used as a parameter to be added to the response of the first command, and the sub interface means (for example, NIC 1200 shown in FIG. 2). When the control device is notified that the content of the first parameter is held, the second command is issued to the control device, and a response to the second command is received from the control device. Then, the second parameter of the response to the second command is extracted (step (9) shown in FIG. 6), the extracted second parameter is processed as one command, and the one command is further processed. (Step (10) shown in FIG. 6), the response generated by the command processing is added as a third parameter for the third command, and the third command is sent to the control device. The external information processing terminal that is issued (step (12) shown in FIG. 6) and connected through the main interface means, The first command including the first parameter for accepting a request by a user and causing the command processing of the sub interface means to execute processing according to the content of the request in accordance with the content of the received request. Is issued to the image forming apparatus, and when a response to the diverted first command is received, a parameter added to the response to the first command is extracted, and the first parameter is subtracted from the subcommand. A control method for an image forming system, characterized in that the interface means is interpreted as a response when handled as a command and used as a result of the request.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating a system environment of a network system to which an image forming apparatus (printer) according to an embodiment of the present invention is applicable. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of the printer illustrated in FIG. 1. FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of software of a local PC that can communicate with the printer illustrated in FIG. 1. It is a figure explaining an example of the user interface by the status window shown in FIG. It is a figure explaining the network status print sequence in the image forming system which concerns on this invention. 5 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is a sequence diagram explaining the 2nd data processing procedure in the image forming system which shows 2nd Embodiment of this invention. 6 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a second data processing procedure in the image forming apparatus according to the present invention. It is a figure explaining the memory map of the storage medium which stores the various data processing program which can be read with the image forming system which concerns on this invention.

Explanation of symbols

1000 Printer 1100 Controller 1110 CPU
1111 ROM
1112 RAM
1113 Serial Controller 1120 ASIC
1121 CPU i / f
1122 Image processing unit 1123 Memory controller 1124 USB controller 1125 NIC controller 1130 SDRAM
1140 EEPROM
1150 USB connector 1200 Network i / f Card
1210 CPU
1220 Controller communication unit 1230 SDRAM
1240 FLASH RAM
1250 Network communication unit 1300 Engine unit 1310 CPU
1320 Serial Controller 1330 VIDEO Control Unit 1340 SDRAM
1350 FLASH RAM
2000 Local PC
2100 Application 2200 Driver 2300 Language Monitor 2400 Status Window 2500 USB Port Monitor 2600 Network Port Monitor 3000 NTP Server
4000 Client PC
5000 Client PC
6000 USB cable 7000 network

Claims (7)

A network controller that communicates with the control device via a predetermined network and responds to the request for the state of the network controller received from the second information processing device without going through the control device If, but in the printer that is connected internally to communicate via the first information processing apparatus and a predetermined local interface, further prior Symbol predetermined communication with the network controller in communication with the second information processing apparatus A control device for processing,
Receiving a request from said first information processing apparatus of the state of the network controller through the predetermined local interface, to the network controller to set the request as a parameter commands corresponding to the network controller A notification means for notification;
Receiving means for receiving response information corresponding to the network controller, which is returned from the network controller as a response to the notification of the command by the notifying means;
Information extracted from the response information received by the receiving means is set as a response parameter to the network controller status request and returned to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. Bei example and returning means for, the,
In response to the same instruction via the same user interface provided in each of the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus, a request for the state of the network controller is sent to the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus. A control device transmitted from an information processing device to the control device and the network controller, respectively .   2. The control according to claim 1, wherein the notifying unit sets a command extracted from the predetermined request in a parameter part of a command for the second information processing apparatus and notifies the network controller. apparatus.   The return means sets a command extracted from the response information received by the receiving means to the response information, and returns the command to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. The control device according to claim 1. A network controller that communicates with the control device via a predetermined network and responds to the request for the state of the network controller received from the second information processing device without going through the control device If, but in the printer that is connected internally to communicate via the first information processing apparatus and a predetermined local interface, further prior Symbol predetermined communication with the network controller in communication with the second information processing apparatus A communication processing method in a control device that performs processing,
Receiving a request from said first information processing apparatus of the state of the network controller through the predetermined local interface, to the network controller to set the request as a parameter commands corresponding to the network controller A notification step to notify;
A reception step of receiving response information corresponding to the network controller, which is returned from the network controller, as a response to the notification of the command in the notification step;
Information extracted from the response information received in the reception step is set as a response parameter to the network controller status request and returned to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. Bei example return the method comprising the steps of, a,
In response to the same instruction via the same user interface provided in each of the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus, a request for the state of the network controller is sent to the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus A communication processing method , wherein the information processing apparatus transmits the information to the control apparatus and the network controller, respectively .   5. The communication according to claim 4, wherein the notifying step sets a command extracted from the predetermined request in a parameter part of a command for the second information processing apparatus and notifies the network controller. Processing method.   In the returning step, the command extracted from the response information received in the receiving step is set in the response information and returned to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. The communication processing method according to claim 4. A network controller that communicates with the control device via a predetermined network and responds to the request for the state of the network controller received from the second information processing device without going through the control device If, but in the printer that is connected internally to communicate via the first information processing apparatus and a predetermined local interface, further prior Symbol predetermined communication with the network controller in communication with the second information processing apparatus The control device that performs the processing
Receiving a request from said first information processing apparatus of the state of the network controller through the predetermined local interface, to the network controller to set the request as a parameter commands corresponding to the network controller A notification means for notification;
Receiving means for receiving response information corresponding to the network controller, which is returned from the network controller as a response to the notification of the command by the notifying means;
Information extracted from the response information received by the receiving means is set as a response parameter to the network controller status request and returned to the first information processing apparatus via the predetermined local interface. Function as a return means ,
Further, in response to the same instruction via the same user interface provided in each of the first information processing apparatus and the second information processing apparatus, a request for the state of the network controller is sent to the first information processing apparatus, the first information processing apparatus, and the second information processing apparatus. The information processing apparatus transmits the program to the control apparatus and the network controller, respectively.

Images