JP5760609B2 - Image forming system - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an image forming system including an information processing apparatus and an image forming apparatus.

  In recent years, composite image processing apparatuses such as MFP (Multi Function Peripheral) have been widely used. The MFP is an image forming apparatus in which functions such as copying, network printing, scanner, FAX, or document server are integrated, and is also called a multifunction peripheral.

  In the MFP, a program called firmware for accessing hardware resources to realize each function is stored in advance, and a desired function can be realized by starting the program.

  On the other hand, PC (Personal Computer), which is an information processing device, forms images based on text data, application software for editing and creating image data, and metafiles that define drawing procedures from application software A printer driver that generates print data such as PDL (Page Description Language) data, which is a data format understandable by the apparatus, is provided. By generating the print driver by starting up the PC, the print data is generated and transmitted to the MFP. In the MFP, the print data is interpreted, and a predetermined image is printed.

  However, the firmware in the MFP may be upgraded (updated) in order to add new functions or deal with bugs. On the other hand, the printer driver may be upgraded (updated) for the same reason. Both versions should match, but since each is an independent program and there is no means to make the PC known when the firmware of the MFP is upgraded, the printer driver and the firmware are different from each other. There is a case where printing of an image is executed according to a version, and there is a problem that an appropriate image forming operation is not executed although printing is possible.

  In this regard, Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2005-267447 discloses that a compatible interface is provided so that older versions of firmware can be used. However, in this method, there is a problem that it is not possible to execute significant function expansion such as addition of a new function as version upgrade.

  In Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open Nos. 2004-355643 and 2009-181337, a server that mediates between the information processing apparatus and the image forming apparatus is provided, and the server converts the print data to a version such as firmware. A method for converting them together is shown.

  However, since the intermediary server is provided, there is a problem that the system becomes complicated and the performance deteriorates.

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2007-287058 discloses a method of storing all old versions of firmware as well as updated new versions of firmware. In this method, it is possible to avoid the problem of version mismatch by calling firmware that matches the version of the printer driver.

JP 2005-267447 A Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2004-355643 JP 2009-181337 A JP 2007-287058 A

  However, in order to store all versions of firmware, it is necessary to secure a large-capacity storage area, and there is a problem in that the performance deteriorates because each area is activated as necessary.

  SUMMARY An advantage of some aspects of the invention is that it provides an image forming system that can cope with version mismatch by a simple method.

  An image forming system according to an aspect of the present invention is stored in at least one information processing apparatus that generates print data according to one printer driver among a plurality of printer drivers having different versions, and a storage unit capable of updating the version. And an image forming apparatus that executes a plurality of functions according to the firmware and forms an image of print data transmitted from the information processing apparatus. The image forming apparatus analyzes the print data receiving unit that receives the print data and the version of the printer driver corresponding to the received print data, and updates some of the functions that are executed according to the firmware based on the analysis result And an analysis control unit that switches to some of a plurality of functions executed according to the previous firmware.

Preferably, the analysis control unit is configured to update a part of the plurality of functions executed in accordance with the firmware based on information for realizing a part of the plurality of functions executed in accordance with the firmware before the update. Switch to some of several functions to be executed according to.
Preferably, the analysis control unit compares the version information of the printer driver that generated the received print data with the version information of the firmware, and determines a part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware based on the comparison result before the update. Switch to some of the multiple functions performed according to the firmware.

  In particular, the information processing apparatus further includes a server that stores printer driver version information. The server notifies the analysis control unit of the image forming apparatus of the version information of the printer driver included in the information processing apparatus.

  Preferably, when the version of the firmware stored in the storage unit is updated, the image forming apparatus stores only information for realizing some functions of a plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before the update in the storage unit. And an update unit that deletes the firmware before update from the storage unit.

  In particular, the storage unit stores information for realizing a part of a plurality of functions executed in accordance with a plurality of pre-update firmware, and the update unit stores one of the plurality of functions stored in the storage unit. Information that is not used is deleted from the information for realizing the function of the part.

  Preferably, the image forming apparatus includes an update availability determination unit that determines whether the version of firmware stored in the storage unit needs to be updated, and an updated version of firmware based on a determination result of the update availability determination unit. And a firmware acquisition unit that acquires from the server.

  Preferably, the information processing apparatus further includes a server that stores conformance information regarding firmware versions conforming to a plurality of printer drivers having different versions, and the analysis control unit analyzes and analyzes the version of the printer driver corresponding to the received print data. Based on the result, a part of the plurality of functions executed in accordance with the firmware is switched to a part of the plurality of functions executed in accordance with the pre-update firmware according to the matching information acquired from the server.

  Preferably, some of the plurality of functions correspond to functions for executing processing related to language information regarding print data.

  In an image forming system according to an aspect of the present invention, an image forming apparatus analyzes a version of a print data receiving unit that receives print data and a printer driver corresponding to the received print data, and according to firmware based on the analysis result An analysis control unit that switches a part of the plurality of functions to be executed to a part of the plurality of functions that are executed according to the firmware before update. In this configuration, it is possible to cope with version mismatch by a simple method by switching part of the functions based on the version analysis result.

1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image forming system according to a first embodiment of the present invention. 1 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of MFP 10 according to a first embodiment of the present invention. It is a figure explaining the functional block implement | achieved by CPU201 according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the update of the firmware according to Embodiment 1 of this invention, and the firmware according to a comparative example. It is a flowchart explaining the flow of the process which performs image formation according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the process of the update of the firmware according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the modification of the process of the update of the firmware according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the history table according to Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is the schematic explaining the image forming system according to the modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the functional block implement | achieved by CPU201 according to the modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is another flowchart explaining the flow of the process which performs the image formation according to the modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the authentication process according to the modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the server authentication information according to the modification 1 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a figure explaining the correspondence of the version of a printer driver and firmware according to the modification 2 of Embodiment 1 of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the update of the printer driver according to Embodiment 2 of this invention. It is a flowchart explaining the update of the firmware in Embodiment 2 of this invention.

  Embodiments of the present invention will be described below with reference to the drawings. In the following description, the same parts and components are denoted by the same reference numerals. Their names and functions are also the same.

(Embodiment 1)
FIG. 1 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image forming system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 1, the image forming system according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes MFP 10 having functions as an image forming apparatus, personal computers (PCs) 2 and 4, and external server 20. They are connected to each other via a network (not shown) so that they can communicate with each other.

  Here, as an example, it is assumed that the personal computer 2 is used by the user A and the personal computer 4 is used by the user B.

  Assume that the personal computers 2 and 4 store different versions of printer drivers. Although not shown, it is assumed that text data and application software for editing and creating image data are also stored.

  The network includes a LAN (Local Area Network) in which computers and network devices according to standards such as Ethernet (registered trademark), token ring, and FDDI are connected, a WAN (Wide Area Network) in which LANs are connected by a dedicated line, and the Internet. Etc. The type and number of devices connected to the network are not limited to these.

  In this example, a state in which print data generated via printer drivers with different versions stored in the personal computers 2 and 4 is transmitted to the MFP 10 is shown.

  As an example, it is assumed that the personal computer 2 is used by the user A and stores the printer driver version “ver.1.1”. The personal computer 4 is used by the user B, and stores the printer driver version “ver.1.2”.

  Further, it is assumed that an external server 20 is provided, and the external server 20 is provided in a state where it can be distributed with respect to the latest version of firmware and the latest version of the printer driver. It is assumed that the external server is also connected to a network (not shown).

  That is, the personal computers 2 and 4 can acquire the latest version of the printer driver from the external server 20 by accessing as necessary, and the MFP 10 can access the latest version of the firmware by accessing as necessary. Can be acquired from the external server 20. Note that, in this example, the number of external servers 20 that can distribute the latest version of firmware and the latest version of the printer driver is shown as one, but the configuration may be such that each is independently provided. I do not care. It is assumed that the firmware and printer driver are upgraded (updated) by the administrator of the external server 20 and stored in the external server 20.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic block diagram illustrating a configuration of MFP 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  2, MFP 10 according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 202, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 203, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) 204, A communication I / F 205, a scanner 206, a printer 207, a FAX 208, an operation panel 209 and an internal bus 220 are included. The internal bus 220 can connect each unit and exchange data with each other.

  A CPU (Central Processing Unit) 201 executes control of the above units, various arithmetic processes, and the like according to programs stored in a storage area such as a ROM 202, a RAM 203, and an HDD 204. In this example, it is assumed that the firmware is stored in the HDD 204. The storage area is used as a storage area for various data, and is also used as a work area for executing a program or an area for storing image data obtained by image processing by the scanner 206.

  A communication I / F 205 is connected to the network and executes data communication with other devices on the network. Specifically, for example, data is exchanged with the personal computers 2 and 4, and input of print data is received from the personal computers 2 and 4, for example. Also, the distribution of the latest version of firmware is received from the external server 20.

  The scanner 206 includes a light receiving element such as a CCD for irradiating light on a document with a light source and photoelectrically converting the reflected light, and an automatic document feeder (ADF) for transporting the document to a predetermined reading position. Document image data is obtained from a light receiving element such as a CCD.

  The printer 207 prints the image data read by the scanner 206 and various data of the image data acquired from the external device via the communication I / F on a recording material such as a recording sheet.

  The FAX 208 is connected to a general telephone line or the like via the communication I / F 205 and is transmitted by FAX.

  The operation panel 209 includes a touch panel used for inputting various instructions, a numeric keypad for setting the number of copies, a start key for instructing start of operation, a stop key for instructing stop of operation, and a reset key for initializing various setting conditions. Etc., and a display 209B for displaying various information.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks implemented by CPU 201 according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 3, CPU 201 according to the first embodiment of the present invention implements various functions for controlling MFP 10 as a whole by reading a program such as firmware stored in ROM 202 and HDD 204.

  Specifically, it includes a print data receiving unit 400, a language processing unit 402, a raster data forming unit 404, an engine control unit 406, a history processing unit 407, an analysis control unit 408, and an update unit 410.

  The print data receiving unit 400 operates in cooperation with the communication I / F 205 and receives print data transmitted from the external personal computers 2 and 4.

  The language processing unit 402 executes processing related to analysis of language information such as characters, graphics, symbols, fonts, and the like constituting image data included in the received print data.

  The raster data forming unit 404 generates image data included in the print data by converting it into bitmap image data (print image data).

  The engine control unit 406 drives the printer 207 according to the print image data, and prints the image data on a predetermined sheet.

  The history processing unit 407 stores print data as history data 304 in the HDD 204 in accordance with an instruction from the engine control unit 406, receiving print data and printing on a recording material such as recording paper. As will be described later, the history data includes the version of the printer driver that generated the print data.

  The analysis control unit 408 analyzes the version of the printer driver in which the received print data is generated according to the received print data. Then, the analysis control unit 408 determines whether the version of the printer driver is different from the current F / W version. If it is determined that the versions are the same, the language processing unit 402 is instructed to execute the process as it is. On the other hand, if it is determined that the printer driver version is different from the current F / W version, the language processing stored in the HDD 204 is realized so that the function of the language processing unit 402 according to the printer driver version can be realized. The information 302 for realizing the part is read. Then, a process of replacing the language processing unit 402 realized by the current F / W with a language processing unit realized by reading the information 302 is executed.

  The update unit 410 includes an update availability determination unit 412, a firmware acquisition unit 414, and a firmware editing unit 416.

The update availability determination unit 412 determines whether firmware can be updated.
The firmware acquisition unit 414 acquires firmware from the external server 20 via the communication I / F 205 when the update availability determination unit 412 determines that the firmware needs to be updated. The acquired firmware is stored in the HDD 204.

  The firmware editing unit 416 edits information such as firmware stored in the HDD 204.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram for explaining the firmware update according to the first embodiment of the present invention and the firmware according to the comparative example.

  Referring to FIG. 4A, here, a case where firmware according to the first embodiment of the present invention is updated is shown.

  Specifically, the version of the firmware (F / W) is “ver.1.0” in the initial state.

  Here, the firmware (F / W) includes information on functions such as “print data receiving unit”, “language processing unit”, “raster data forming unit”, and “engine control unit” realized by the CPU 201. Yes. Here, only information related to image formation is mainly described, and other information is also included.

  The firmware (F / W) is updated in order of “ver.1.0”, “ver.1.1”, and “ver.1.2”.

  In this example, “ver.1.2” is stored in the HDD 204 as the latest firmware (F / W) version, and “ver.1.0”, “ver.1. A case where information for realizing the “language processing unit” corresponding to “1” is also stored is shown.

  That is, in the first embodiment of the present invention, information for realizing the “language processing unit” corresponding to the firmware version before the update is stored together with the latest firmware.

  In general, when firmware is updated, it is often possible to execute image formation regardless of the version of the printer driver regardless of the version, but it is most affected by image formation. The easy part is related to the “language processing part”.

  Therefore, it is possible to ensure proper image formation by using the same version of the “language processing unit”.

  As will be described later, in the first embodiment of the present invention, for example, when information that realizes a part of the “language processing unit” of firmware (F / W) according to the old version is stored in the HDD 204, the old version is followed. When print data is received from the printer driver, a part of the “language processing unit” of the firmware according to the old version is started and replaced with the “language processing unit” corresponding to the current firmware. Version mismatch in “part” is resolved.

  On the other hand, with reference to FIG. 4B, here, the case of updating the firmware according to the comparative example is shown.

  It is assumed that the firmware (F / W) is updated in order of “ver.1.0”, “ver.1.1”, and “ver.1.2”.

  In this comparative example, “ver. 1.2” “print data receiving unit”, “language processing unit”, “raster data formation” to be realized by the CPU 201 as the latest firmware (F / W) in the HDD 204. Part "," engine control part "," ver.1.1 "" print data receiving part "," language processing part "," raster data forming part "," engine control part "," ver. 1.0 " Of “print data receiving unit”, “language processing unit”, “raster data forming unit”, and “engine control unit” are stored.

  Therefore, in the configuration of the comparative example, for example, firmware (F / W) conforming to the old version is stored. Therefore, when print data is received from the printer driver conforming to the old version, the firmware conforming to the old version is used. By starting up, it is possible to resolve the version mismatch and execute appropriate image formation processing.

  However, storing all versions of firmware is not appropriate in view of the capacity of the storage area, and is not appropriate in terms of performance because the firmware is replaced.

  In the first embodiment of the present invention, as necessary, a part of a plurality of functions executed according to the firmware is switched to a part of a plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before update. Image forming processing can be executed.

In the following, specific processing will be described.
FIG. 5 is a flowchart illustrating a flow of processing for executing image formation according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 5, it is first determined whether or not print data has been received (step S2). Specifically, the print data receiving unit 400 determines whether print data has been received via the communication I / F 205.

  If it is determined in step S2 that print data has been received (YES in step S2), the printer driver version is analyzed according to the print data (step S4). Specifically, the analysis control unit 408 analyzes the printer driver version according to the print data. The version analysis is performed according to the data structure of the print data. Alternatively, when the print data includes information related to the version of the printer driver, the information is analyzed from the information. Alternatively, the printer driver version may be acquired from, for example, the PCs 2 and 4 using SNMP (Simple Network Management Protocol) which is a general network device management protocol.

  Next, it is determined whether the firmware version matches the printer driver version (step S6). Specifically, it is determined whether or not the information (version information) regarding the version such as “ver.1.0” matches.

  If it is determined in step S6 that the firmware version matches the printer driver version (YES in step S6), language analysis processing is executed (step S8). Specifically, the language processing unit 402 executes analysis processing for characters, graphics, symbols, and the like of image data included in the print data.

  Next, print image data is formed (step S10). The raster data forming unit 404 converts the image data into bitmap image data (print image data) based on the result analyzed by the language processing unit 402 and forms the image data.

  Next, it outputs to a printer (step S12). The engine control unit 406 drives the printer 207 using the print image data, forms an image on a recording sheet, and outputs the image.

  Next, the printer output history is saved (step S13). The history processing unit 407 stores, in the HDD 204, information related to the history received print data and output to the printer in accordance with an instruction from the engine control unit 406 as history data. Note that the history data is stored including the version information of the printer driver that generated the print data.

Then, the process ends (END).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S6 that the firmware version and the printer driver version do not match (NO in step S6), whether or not there is information regarding the language processing unit corresponding to the matching firmware version, That is, it is determined whether or not information related to the language processing unit corresponding to the HDD 204 is stored (step S14).

  If it is determined in step S14 that information related to the language processing unit corresponding to the matching firmware version is stored in the HDD 204 (YES in step S14), the language processing unit corresponding to the matching firmware version is activated. Then, the language processing unit corresponding to the current firmware version is switched (step S16).

  And it progresses to step S8 and performs the language analysis process according to the switched language processing part. Subsequent processing is the same as described above.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in step S14 that the information related to the language processing unit corresponding to the matching firmware version is not stored in the HDD 204 (NO in step S14), the process proceeds to step S8 and corresponds to the version as it is. The language analysis processing by the language processing unit is executed. In this case, since it is not possible to switch to the corresponding language processing unit, language analysis processing according to the language processing unit corresponding to the latest version is executed.

Subsequent processing is the same as described above.
If the firmware version and the printer driver version do not match by the processing, the information on the language processing unit of the version before update stored in the HDD 204 is activated and switched to switch the part to the same version. As a “language processing unit”, it is possible to ensure proper image formation.

Next, firmware update will be described.
FIG. 6 is a flowchart illustrating firmware update processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 6, it is first determined whether or not there is a firmware update request (step S20). An update availability determination unit 412 of the update unit 410 determines whether there is an update request. Specifically, the firmware update request includes a case where the administrator of the MFP 10 requests a firmware update by operating an operation panel, for example.

  Next, the latest firmware is acquired (step S22). The firmware acquisition unit 414 accesses the external server 20 via the communication I / F 205 in accordance with an instruction from the update availability determination unit 412 and downloads the latest firmware.

  Next, it stores in HDD (step S24). The firmware acquisition unit 414 stores the downloaded latest firmware in the HDD 204.

  Next, information relating to the language processing unit corresponding to the firmware version before update is stored again (step S26). Specifically, the firmware editing unit 416 extracts information on the language processing unit corresponding to the version of the firmware before update stored in the HDD 204, and re-stores the extracted information in the HDD 204.

  Next, the firmware before update is deleted (step S28). Specifically, the firmware editing unit 416 deletes the entire firmware before update.

Then, the process ends (END).
With this process, the update unit 410 can store the latest firmware in the HDD 204 and can re-store information for realizing the language processing unit corresponding to the version included in the firmware before the update. It becomes. Then, it becomes possible to secure the storage area by deleting the entire firmware before update.

  In step S20, the firmware update request is determined not to be performed by an administrator, for example, when a predetermined period has elapsed since the firmware was stored (updated), even if it is determined that there is an update request. good. Alternatively, the update availability determination unit 412 may determine that there is an update request in accordance with an instruction from the analysis control unit 408. Specifically, the analysis control unit 408 determines whether or not there is information regarding the language processing unit corresponding to the matching firmware version in step S14 in the flowchart of FIG. to decide. When there is no information in the HDD 204, for example, when the printer driver version is new and the firmware version is old, the firmware version needs to be updated, so the analysis control unit 408 sends the firmware to the update availability determination unit 412. An instruction for requesting updating may be output. Alternatively, the analysis control unit 408 may notify the administrator and determine that there is an update request through an operation from the administrator.

  FIG. 7 is a flowchart illustrating a modification of the firmware update process according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 7, the processing up to step S <b> 28 is the same as the flow of FIG. 6. Then, after deleting the firmware before the update in step S28 (step S28), the use history is confirmed (step S30). Specifically, the firmware editing unit 416 refers to history data stored in the HDD 204.

FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a history table according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
Referring to FIG. 8, the history table according to the first embodiment of the present invention includes a plurality of history data.

  Specifically, it is assumed that the numbers are numbered in the order of the input history data. The history data includes a print data file name, a user name, print data printer driver version information, date and time, and the like.

  It is possible to confirm the print data history by referring to the history table.

  Next, referring to FIG. 7 again, an editing process of information on the language processing unit is executed based on the history (step S32). Specifically, the firmware editing unit 416 refers to the history table to check the print data history, that is, the version information of the printer driver. According to the version information of the printer driver, the language processing unit of the corresponding version of the firmware is activated and replaced. Therefore, if the version information of the printer driver is confirmed, it can be determined whether the language processing unit of the corresponding version of the firmware has been activated. Judgment can be made.

  Therefore, for example, as an example, the history data stored in the HDD 204 is confirmed within a predetermined period, and it is determined which firmware version corresponding to which firmware version is not activated. If it is determined that the language processing unit information corresponding to the firmware version not being used is stored in the HDD 204, the information on the language processing unit is deleted.

Then, the process ends (END).
By further deleting information on the language processing unit that is not used by this processing, the storage capacity can be used more effectively.

(Modification 1 of Embodiment 1)
FIG. 9 is a schematic diagram illustrating an image forming system according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

  9 is different from the image forming system of FIG. 1 in that an authentication server 6 is further provided. Since the other points are the same, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

The authentication server 6 executes user authentication processing with the MFP 10.
FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating functional blocks implemented by CPU 201 according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 10, the CPU 201 is different from the functional block of FIG. 3 in that an authentication unit 409 is provided. Since the other points are the same, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  The authentication unit 409 executes user authentication processing for inquiring whether the user is a legitimate user by inquiring the user information about the user information according to user information (for example, user A) included in the received print data.

  FIG. 11 is another flowchart for explaining the flow of processing for executing image formation according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 11, it differs from the flowchart of FIG. 5 in that steps S3 and S5 for executing authentication processing are added.

  Since other points are the same as those in the flowchart of FIG. 5, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating an authentication process according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 12, authentication unit 409 first outputs user information (step S40). Here, the authentication unit 409 outputs user information indicating the transmission source included in the print data to the authentication server 6 via the communication I / F 205.

  Next, the authentication server 6 determines whether user information is registered (step S42). Specifically, it is determined whether user information is registered based on server authentication information stored in the authentication server 6.

  FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating server authentication information according to the first modification of the first embodiment of the present invention.

Referring to FIG. 13, the server authentication information is composed of a plurality of authentication data.
In each authentication data, it is assumed that user information and version information of the printer driver used by the user are registered. Note that the version information of the printer driver may be registered in advance by the administrator for each user, or obtained from, for example, the PCs 2 and 4 using SNMP, which is a general network device management protocol. You may make it register.

  In this example, the printer driver version information “ver.1.1” associated with the user information “user A” and the printer driver version information “ver.1” associated with the user information “user B”. .2 "is registered.

  Referring to FIG. 12 again, in step S42, if authentication server 6 determines that user information is registered based on the server authentication information (YES in step S42), authentication OK determination is made ( Step S44). Specifically, the authentication server 6 outputs an authentication OK determination to the authentication unit 409.

  Next, version information is acquired (step S46). Specifically, when the authentication server 6 determines that the authentication is OK, the authentication server 6 outputs the associated version information to the authentication unit 409, and the authentication unit 409 acquires the output version information.

Then, the process ends (return).
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S42 that the user information is not registered based on the server authentication information (NO in step S42), the authentication server 6 determines authentication NG (step S48). Specifically, the authentication server 6 outputs an authentication NG determination to the authentication unit 409. Then, the process ends (return).

  Referring to FIG. 11 again, in step S5, it is determined whether or not the authentication is OK (step S5).

  In step S5, if the authentication is OK (YES in step S5), the process proceeds to step S6. If the authentication is not OK (NO in step S5), the process ends (end).

  If the authentication is OK, then it is determined whether the firmware version matches the printer driver version (step S6). Here, as the version information of the printer driver, the version acquired by the above-described authentication process can be used.

  If it is determined in step S6 that the firmware version matches the printer driver version (YES in step S6), language analysis processing is executed (step S8). The subsequent processing is the same.

  On the other hand, if it is not the authentication OK determination in step S5 (NO in step S5), the process ends. With this process, it is possible to ensure security by not executing the image forming process for print data that is not successfully authenticated.

  In this process, by registering the printer driver version information in the authentication server 6, it is possible to acquire the information during the user authentication process and determine whether the printer driver and firmware versions match or do not match. Processing becomes easy and load is reduced.

(Modification 2 of Embodiment 1)
FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating the correspondence between the printer driver and the firmware version according to the second modification of the first embodiment of the present invention. It is assumed that the information is stored in the HDD 204.

  Referring to FIG. 14, correspondence relationships between a plurality of versions of firmware and printer drivers are shown.

  Specifically, as an example, the firmware version “ver.1.0” is compatible with the printer driver versions “ver.1.0” and “ver.1.1”. On the other hand, the printer driver version “ver.1.2” is not compatible.

  The firmware version “ver.1.1” is compatible with the printer driver versions “ver.1.0” and “ver.1.1”. On the other hand, the printer driver version “ver.1.2” is not compatible.

  The firmware version “ver. 1.2” is not compatible with the printer driver version “ver. 1.0”, but the printer driver versions “ver. 1.1” and “ver. "2" is compatible.

  Using the correspondence relationship, in the flowchart of FIG. 5 and the like, in step S6, it may be determined whether the firmware version matches the printer driver version. Specifically, when the firmware version is version information “ver. 1.1” and the printer driver version is version information “ver. 1.0”, the firmware version and the printer driver version are compatible. It is possible to determine that the versions match and continue the processing without activating the language processing unit of “ver.1.0”.

  In this correspondence relationship, the firmware version “ver. 1.1” can also correspond to the printer driver version “ver. 1.0”. Information does not have to be used.

  Therefore, for example, there is no problem in operation even if there is no information for starting the language processing unit “ver.1.0”. In other words, if there is information for starting the language processing unit “ver.1.1”, the language processing unit “ver.1.0” stored in the HDD 204 may be deleted.

  As an example, the version correspondence between the printer driver and firmware shown in FIG. 14 is transmitted together with the firmware from the outside when the latest firmware is downloaded and stored in the HDD 204. . It may be stored in the HDD 204 in advance.

  With this processing, in consideration of version compatibility, it is possible to leave only necessary language processing units in the HDD 204 and delete unnecessary language processing units from the HDD 204 to effectively use the storage area. In addition, unnecessary switching of the language processing unit is also prevented, so that a decrease in performance is also prevented.

  In this example, the case where the HDD 204 stores information on the correspondence relationship between the firmware and the printer driver has been described. However, in the first modification described above, the authentication server 6 stores the information and the appropriate version is stored. May be designated and output to the MFP 10. Thereby, on the MFP 10 side, it is possible to activate and switch the designated version of the language processing unit as necessary without determining whether the versions match or not.

(Embodiment 2)
In the second embodiment of the present invention, update of a printer driver on the personal computer (PC) side will be described.

  FIG. 15 is a flowchart illustrating printer driver update according to the second embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 15, first, it is determined whether there is a printer driver update request (step S50).

  Specifically, there is a case where a user operates a personal computer (PC) to request a printer driver update. Alternatively, it may be determined that there is a printer driver update request when a predetermined period has elapsed since the printer driver was stored (updated).

  If it is determined in step S50 that there is a printer driver update request (YES in step S50), then the printer driver is updated (step S52). Specifically, the personal computer (PC) accesses the external server 20 and acquires the latest printer driver distributed from the external server 20. Then, the printer driver before update is updated to the latest version of the printer driver.

  Next, the personal computer (PC) outputs an update notification to the MFP 10 (step S54). It is assumed that the update notification includes information on the updated version of the printer driver. Then, the process ends (END).

  In addition to updating the printer driver, the user may be notified of necessary information such as a function difference from the printer driver before the update and a list of functions added by the printer driver after the update. good.

  FIG. 16 is a flowchart for explaining the firmware update in the second embodiment of the present invention.

  Referring to FIG. 16, it is determined whether there is a printer driver update notification (step S60). Specifically, the update availability determination unit 412 of the update unit 410 determines whether an update notification has been received.

  If it is determined in step S60 that there is a printer driver update notification, it is next determined whether firmware update is required (step S62). The update availability determination unit 412 determines whether the firmware version stored in the HDD 204 needs to be updated based on the version information of the printer driver included in the update notification.

  If it is determined in step S62 that the version of the printer driver is new and it is necessary to update the firmware (YES in step S62), the latest firmware is acquired (step S22).

Since the subsequent processing is the same as that described with reference to FIG. 7, detailed description thereof will not be repeated.
On the other hand, if it is determined in step S62 that the version of the printer driver is the same or older and it is determined that there is no need to update the firmware (NO in step S62), the latest firmware is not acquired. Proceed to step S30.

  Then, as described with reference to FIG. 7, the usage history is confirmed, and the editing process of information related to the language processing unit is executed based on the history (step S <b> 32). With this processing, it is possible to further secure storage capacity by deleting information related to language processing units that are not being used.

  When the printer driver is updated by the method according to the second embodiment of the present invention, an update notification is output to the MFP 10, and the MFP 10 needs to update the firmware in response to the update notification. In this case, the latest firmware version can be received from the external server 20 and updated. That is, the firmware can be updated in synchronization with the update of the version of the printer driver, which eliminates the complexity of periodically updating the firmware manually by the administrator and is highly convenient.

  In this example, the update notification is output to the MFP 10 and the MFP 10 performs the firmware update in response thereto. However, the update notification is output to another external device, and the external device The firmware may be updated for the MFP 10 by operating.

  In the above embodiment, the firmware includes information on functions such as “print data receiving unit”, “language processing unit”, “raster data forming unit”, and “engine control unit” realized by the CPU 201. However, the present invention is not limited to this, and information on functions such as an analysis control unit, a history processing unit, and an update unit may be included, or a part thereof may be included. Further, in this example, the case where only the “language processing unit” before update is extracted and stored again has been described. However, the present invention is not limited to only the “language processing unit”, and other examples such as “print data receiving unit” ”,“ Raster data forming unit ”,“ engine control unit ”, or a combination thereof, and there is no particular problem as long as the information is part of the firmware.

  The image forming apparatus according to the present invention is not limited to the MFP, and may be a printer apparatus or a facsimile apparatus.

  It is also possible to provide a program that causes a computer to function and execute control as described in the above flow. Such a program is stored in a computer-readable recording medium such as a flexible disk attached to the computer, a CD-ROM (Compact Disk-Read Only Memory), a ROM (Read Only Memory), a RAM (Random Access Memory), and a memory card. And can be provided as a program product. Alternatively, the program can be provided by being recorded on a recording medium such as a hard disk built in the computer.

  The program according to the present invention is a program module that is provided as a part of a computer operating system (OS) and calls necessary modules in a predetermined arrangement at a predetermined timing to execute processing. Also good. In that case, the program itself does not include the module, and the process is executed in cooperation with the OS. A program that does not include such a module can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

  The program according to the present invention may be provided by being incorporated in a part of another program. Even in this case, the program itself does not include the module included in the other program, and the process is executed in cooperation with the other program. Such a program incorporated in another program can also be included in the program according to the present invention.

The provided program product is installed in a program storage unit such as a hard disk and executed. The program product includes the program itself and a recording medium on which the program is recorded.

  The embodiment disclosed this time should be considered as illustrative in all points and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the terms of the claims, rather than the description above, and is intended to include any modifications within the scope and meaning equivalent to the terms of the claims.

  2,4 PC, 6 authentication server, 20 external server, 202 ROM, 203 RAM, 204 HDD, 206 scanner, 207 printer, 209 operation panel, 209A input unit, 209B display, 220 internal bus, 400 print data receiving unit, 402 Language processing unit, 404 raster data forming unit, 406 engine control unit, 407 history processing unit, 408 analysis control unit, 409 authentication unit, 410 update unit, 412 update availability determination unit, 414 firmware acquisition unit, 416 firmware edit unit.

Claims (9)

At least one information processing device that generates print data according to one printer driver of a plurality of printer drivers of different versions;
An image forming apparatus that forms a print data image transmitted from the information processing apparatus by executing a plurality of functions according to firmware stored in a storage unit capable of updating a version;
The image forming apparatus includes:
A print data receiving unit for receiving the print data;
The printer driver version corresponding to the received print data is analyzed, and a part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware based on the analysis result is part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before update. An image forming system including an analysis control unit for switching to The analysis control unit converts a part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before the update based on information for realizing a part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before the update. The image forming system according to claim 1, wherein the image forming system switches to some of a plurality of functions executed according to firmware. The analysis control unit compares the version information of the printer driver that generated the received print data with the version information of the firmware, and before updating some of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware based on the comparison result the switch to a portion of the plurality of functions, according to claim 1 or 2, the image forming system according to be executed in accordance with the firmware. A server for storing version information of a printer driver included in the information processing apparatus;
The image forming system according to claim 3 , wherein the server notifies the analysis control unit of the image forming apparatus of version information of a printer driver included in the information processing apparatus. When the image forming apparatus updates the version of the firmware stored in the storage unit, the image forming apparatus stores only information for realizing a part of the plurality of functions executed according to the firmware before the update in the storage unit. storing and, before updating the firmware further comprises an updating unit for deleting from the storage unit, according to claim 1 or 2, the image forming system according. The storage unit stores information for realizing some functions of the plurality of functions executed according to a plurality of firmware before the update,
The image forming system according to claim 5 , wherein the update unit deletes information that is not used among information for realizing some of the plurality of functions stored in the storage unit. The image forming apparatus includes:
An update availability determination unit that determines whether the version of the firmware stored in the storage unit needs to be updated;
Further comprising, according to claim 1 or 2 imaging system according to the firmware acquisition unit for acquiring the version of the firmware is updated based on the determination result of the update determination section from the server. A server for storing conformity information regarding firmware versions conforming to the plurality of printer drivers having different versions;
The analysis control unit analyzes a version of a printer driver corresponding to the received print data, and based on the analysis result, a part of a plurality of functions executed according to the firmware is acquired in the conforming information acquired from the server. depending was executed in accordance with pre-update firmware switches to a portion of said plurality of functions, according to claim 1 or 2, the image forming system according. Wherein some of the plurality of functions corresponds to a function of executing a process related to the language information regarding the print data, the image forming system according to any one of claims 1-8.

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