JP6199758B2 - Embedded system, image forming device - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an embedded system incorporated in a machine or apparatus. The present invention also relates to an image forming apparatus including an embedded system.

  In an image forming apparatus such as a multifunction peripheral, basic software may be developed in units of functions (for example, for printing, scanning, copying, facsimile, etc.) that the multifunction peripheral has. These software may be stored in a non-volatile memory of the multifunction device. In addition to the basic software, an application may be developed by a manufacturer or a software development company in order to meet the individual demands of each user. Here, in the image forming apparatus, a plurality of software and applications may be executed in parallel. Then, it is necessary to prevent a plurality of software and applications from using the same area of the shared memory in competition (not to use simultaneously). Therefore, Patent Document 1 describes an example of an image forming apparatus that performs arbitration so that shared memory key values do not overlap in applications and programs.

  Specifically, Patent Document 1 stores shared memory management information that associates and holds shared memory identification information unique to a shared memory area and application identification information unique to an application to which the shared memory area is assigned. Receiving a request message from the application, determining whether the received message is a request to create shared memory identification information, and if the received message is a creation request, the shared memory identification information not registered in the shared memory management information is An image forming apparatus including arbitration means that determines and transmits the determined shared memory identification information to an application that has made a creation request is described. With this configuration, it is not necessary to develop an application in consideration of the content of identification information in the shared memory, and the program development efficiency is improved (see Patent Document 1: Claim 1, paragraph [0010], etc.).

JP 2009-065713 A

  The image forming apparatus includes a plurality of hardware (a printing part, a document reading part, a communication part, a display part, etc.) and software (firmware) for operating these hardware is incorporated. This is a kind of embedded system. In general, firmware is incorporated into an embedded system in a form written to ROM. When writing to the ROM, the firmware is written into the ROM after compiling and linking the firmware source code into an executable format (after building).

  As described above, the firmware may be strongly linked to the hardware, such as being fixedly written in the ROM. Therefore, it may be difficult to change (update) the firmware so that the operation of the embedded system is changed and the execution result of the firmware changes. In order to change the firmware, it is necessary to create the source code of the changed firmware, build the changed source code again, and update the firmware in the ROM to the one after the build. Because it takes. When a ROM that cannot be rewritten is used, the ROM itself is replaced.

  Take report printing in an image forming apparatus as an example. Report printing is a function for printing or displaying a report including information and items predetermined by firmware that indicates the state of the apparatus. For example, when execution of report printing is instructed, a part of the firmware in which processing (function, instruction, etc.) for printing the report is defined is executed, and a printed matter (standard content) containing predetermined information is executed. Printed matter) is printed out from the image forming apparatus.

  Conventionally, when a user wants to customize a report so that specific information (items) is not printed, it takes a lot of time and effort. For example, a person who desires customization makes a request to the manufacturer of the image forming apparatus. On the manufacturer side, after accepting the request and examining the contents of customization, the firmware corresponding to the customization is created. Then, after a new firmware test, the new firmware is built, and the new firmware after the build is installed in the device to be customized (firmware rewriting and ROM replacement). As described above, there is a problem in the embedded system that updating the firmware may require much time and effort.

  With the technology described in Patent Document 1, it is considered that shared memory contention can be avoided, but there is no description about the problem that customization and firmware update take a lot of time and effort, and the above problem cannot be dealt with.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above-described problems of the prior art, and can be used simply and quickly by a user without the need to develop a new firmware, build a firmware again, or update the firmware without being a developer. It is an object of the present invention to be able to change the operation of the embedded system and the obtained results so that the desired results can be obtained.

In order to solve the above problem, the embedded system according to claim 1 includes a first storage unit that nonvolatilely stores firmware in which an identification number is assigned to each function that has been built into an executable format and included. A processing unit that executes a function according to the firmware, an acquisition unit that acquires a definition file for defining validity / invalidity of a function included in the firmware using the identification number, and the definition acquired by the acquisition unit A second storage unit that stores the file , a printing unit that prints a report about the embedded system, and a display unit that displays a report about the embedded system are included. The definition file is defined in a format that does not include the identification number of the function to be enabled and includes the identification number of the function to be invalidated, and the second storage unit is read based on a function determined by the firmware. The data to be read is stored, and the processing unit checks whether or not the identification number given to the function to be executed is included in the definition file, and attaches to the function to be executed. When the specified identification number is included in the definition file, the function is not executed, and the reading of the data indicated by the function among the data to be read is prohibited and attached to the function to be executed. When the identification number is not included in the definition file, the function is executed to read the data indicated by the function among the data to be read. The firmware includes a function for reading out data necessary for printing the report from the data to be read out in the second storage unit and printing the read data on the printing unit, and printing the report The processing unit checks whether or not to execute each function included in the firmware determined to be necessary for printing the report based on the definition file. Data corresponding to the function is read from the target data, the read data is printed in the report, and for invalid functions, the data corresponding to the function is not read from the read target data, and the invalid function Is not printed on the report, and the firmware reads the read target of the second storage unit. Data including a function for reading the data required for displaying the report and displaying the read data on the display unit. When displaying the report, the processing unit stores the data in the definition file. Based on whether or not to execute each function included in the firmware determined to be necessary for displaying the report, and for valid functions, read data corresponding to the function from the read target data. The read data is displayed in the report, and for invalid functions, data corresponding to the function is not read from the data to be read so that data corresponding to the invalid function is not displayed in the report. It was decided to.

  According to the present invention, the operation of the embedded system can be achieved easily and quickly without the development of new firmware, the re-build of firmware, or the update of firmware so that even a developer can obtain the desired result. And the results obtained can be changed. As a result, it is possible to provide an embedded system and an image forming apparatus that are easy to use for the user and provide high satisfaction.

1 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a multifunction machine according to an embodiment. It is a figure which shows the hardware constitutions of the multifunctional device which concerns on embodiment. 3 is a diagram for explaining a storage unit of the multifunction peripheral according to the embodiment. FIG. (A), (b) is a figure for demonstrating the identification number attached | subjected to each process in firmware, and a definition file. It is a figure which shows a report setting screen. It is a figure which shows an example of the correspondence of the character string contained in a report, and the process in firmware. It is a figure which shows an example of the identification number attached | subjected to each process. It is a figure for demonstrating the operation | movement by a definition file, and the change of an execution result. It is a flowchart which shows an example of the flow of execution of the firmware based on a definition file.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to FIGS. In this description, a multifunction machine 101 (corresponding to an image forming apparatus) as the embedded system 100 will be described as an example. However, each element such as configuration and arrangement described in this embodiment does not limit the scope of the invention and is merely an illustrative example.

(Outline of MFP 101)
First, an outline of the multifunction machine 101 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating a structure of a multifunction machine 101 according to the embodiment.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a multifunction machine 101 according to this embodiment has an operation panel 1 attached to the front surface. The multi-function peripheral 101 has a reading unit 2 including an original conveying unit 2a and an image reading unit 2b at the top. The multifunction machine 101 includes, as the printing unit 3, a paper feeding unit 3a, a first transport unit 3b, an image forming unit 3c, a fixing unit 3d, and a second transport unit 3e.

  First, the operation panel 1 includes a display unit 11 that displays the state of the multifunction machine 101, various messages, and a setting screen. The display unit 11 is provided with a touch panel unit 12 and hard keys 13 for receiving various operations and settings. The operation panel 1 accepts settings such as transmission method, transmission destination address, paper size and type, document size and type, and transmission and printing conditions.

  When a document is transported and read, the document transport unit 2a transports the documents placed on the document tray one by one toward the reading position. The image reading unit 2b reads a conveyed document or a document placed on a document table, and generates document image data.

  The paper supply unit 3a stores a plurality of sheets and sends out the sheets during printing. The first transport unit 3b transports the paper supplied from the paper feed unit 3a to the image forming unit 3c. The image forming unit 3c forms a toner image based on the image data to be printed, and transfers the toner image to a sheet. The fixing unit 3d heats and pressurizes the paper on which the toner image is transferred to fix the toner image on the paper. The second transport unit 3e transports the sheet that has passed through the fixing unit 3d, and discharges the sheet to the outside (discharge tray).

(Hardware configuration of MFP 101)
Next, the hardware configuration of the multifunction machine 101 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating a hardware configuration of the multifunction peripheral 101 according to the embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 2, the multifunction peripheral 101 according to the present embodiment includes a control unit 4 (corresponding to a processing unit). The control unit 4 controls each unit included in the multifunction machine 101. The control unit 4 includes a CPU 41, an image processing unit 42 that generates image data used for printing and transmission (including facsimile communication), and other electronic circuits and elements. The CPU 41 performs control and calculation of each unit of the multifunction peripheral 101 based on a control program (firmware 6) and control data stored in the storage unit 5. The storage unit 5 is configured by a combination of a nonvolatile storage device such as a ROM 51, a flash ROM, and an HDD 53 and a volatile storage device such as a RAM 52.

  Then, the control unit 4 performs printing by paper conveyance, toner image formation, transfer, and fixing (printing unit 3a, first conveyance unit 3b, image formation unit 3c, fixing unit 3d, and second conveyance unit). 3e) and the operation of the reading unit 2. Then, the control unit 4 causes the printing unit 3 to perform printing based on the printing data received from the computer 200 and the image data obtained by reading the original of the reading unit 2 (copy function, printer function).

  A communication unit 43 is connected to the control unit 4. The control unit 4 controls the operation of the communication unit 43 and communication processing. The communication unit 43 is an interface for communicating with the computer 200 such as a personal computer or a server or the facsimile apparatus 300.

  The control unit 4 controls operations such as display on the operation panel 1. In addition, the control unit 4 recognizes the setting contents made on the operation panel 1 and recognizes the setting contents and a print execution instruction.

  The acquisition unit 44 is a part that acquires data such as a definition file 8 to be described later from a portable storage medium 400 such as a memory card or a portable magnetic storage device. The acquisition unit 44 includes a socket for connecting the storage medium 400, a circuit for recognizing the connected storage medium 400 and reading data stored in the storage medium 400, and the like.

(Storage unit 5)
Next, the storage unit 5 will be described with reference to FIG. FIG. 3 is a diagram for explaining the storage unit 5 of the multifunction machine 101 according to the embodiment.

  As illustrated in FIG. 3, the storage unit 5 of the MFP 101 according to the present embodiment includes a ROM 51 (corresponding to the first storage unit), a RAM 52, and an HDD 53 (corresponding to the second storage unit).

  The ROM 51 is mounted on the substrate of the control unit 4. As the ROM 51, an EEPROM or a flash ROM can be used. The ROM 51 stores the firmware 6 (stored in a nonvolatile manner).

  The firmware 6 is software that is embedded in order to cause the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) to perform a desired operation. The ROM 51 stores firmware 6 that has been compiled (executable format) by compiling and linking the source code.

  The multifunction machine 101 according to the present embodiment has a plurality of functions such as a copy function, a printer function, a scan transmission function, and a FAX function. As shown in FIG. 3, copy firmware 61, print firmware 62, scan transmission firmware 63, and fax firmware 64 are stored in ROM 51 in accordance with these functions. It should be noted that the MFP 101 of the present embodiment is equipped with functions other than those described above, such as a box function, and the corresponding firmware 6 is stored in the ROM 51. Examples and explanations of the firmware 6 of each function other than those described above Is omitted.

  By using the touch panel unit 12 or the hard key 13 of the operation panel 1, it is possible to select which function to use from among the functions of the multifunction machine 101. In other words, the operation unit such as the touch panel unit 12 or the hard key 13 of the operation panel 1 receives an input for selecting a function to be used.

  When the function to be used is selected, the control unit 4 executes the firmware 6 corresponding to the selected function among the firmware 6 previously read into the RAM 52 (from the ROM 51 to the RAM 52 after the function is selected). Firmware 6 to be read may be read). Then, the control unit 4 executes processes (commands, functions, routines, etc.) of the firmware 6 according to operations and inputs performed on the operation panel 1 and job execution instructions. As a result, the control unit 4 causes the display unit 11 to display according to the input to the operation panel 1, causes the printing unit 3 to perform printing, causes the reading unit 2 to read the document, and the communication unit 43. To send image data.

  The storage unit 5 includes an HDD 53. The HDD 53 is communicably connected to the board of the control unit 4 by a connector or a cord. Instead of the HDD 53, an SSD or a flash ROM may be used. The HDD 53 stores various data such as control data 53a, image data, and data read based on processing defined by the firmware 6 (read target data 7) (details will be described later).

  For example, the HDD 53 stores data such as setting values and parameters for causing the printing unit 3 and the reading unit 2 to perform operations as the control data 53a. The control unit 4 accesses necessary data in the control data 53a (reading to the RAM 52) in accordance with the execution of the logic based on the firmware 6. The control unit 4 performs control and processing based on the read data.

(Identification number and definition file 8)
Next, the identification number and definition file 8 assigned to each process determined by the firmware 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 4A and 4B are diagrams for explaining the identification number assigned to each process in the firmware 6 and the definition file 8. FIG.

  The firmware 6 defines a plurality of processes for causing each part of the multifunction peripheral 101 to perform an appropriate operation. As the processing to be determined, there are a function, an instruction, a routine, and the like.

  Then, as shown in FIG. 4A, an identification number is assigned to each process determined by the firmware 6 of the multifunction machine 101 (embedded system 100) of the present embodiment. In the example of FIG. 4A, the function (process) of “func_a ()” has the identification number “01001”, the function “func_b ()” has the identification number “01002”, and “member_a ()”. In this example, an identification number “02000” is assigned to the function, and an identification number “02001” is assigned to the function “member_b ()”.

  On the other hand, in the example of FIG. 4B, the identification number “01001” is assigned to the function (processing) of “func_a ()”, the identification number “01002” is assigned to the function “func_b ()”, and “func_d ()”. The identification number “01004” is attached to the function “”, the identification number “02000” is assigned to the function “member_a ()”, and the identification number “02003” is assigned to the function “member_d ()”. ing.

  As described above, the value of the identification number is different for each process. In other words, the identification number is a unique value for each process defined by the firmware 6. For example, an identification number is assigned to each process when compiling or linking. For example, a compiler or a linker performs a process of assigning an identification number.

  The definition file 8 is a file for defining a valid process (a process to be executed) and an invalid process (a process not to be executed) using the identification number assigned to the process. For example, an identification number is assigned to reading of the read target data 7 from the HDD 53 and processing using the read data.

  The definition file 8 shown in FIG. 4A is a definition file 8 having a format in which valid process identification numbers are listed. In the case of this format, the control unit 4 checks whether or not the definition file 8 includes an identification number assigned to the process to be executed when executing the process determined by the firmware 6. When the identification number assigned to the process to be executed is included in the definition file 8, the control unit 4 causes the process to be executed. For example, the control unit 4 reads the read target data 7 determined by the process from the storage location (address) of the HDD 53 defined by the process (function, command, routine, etc.).

  In the example of FIG. 4A, since the identification number of “01001”, “01002”, “02000”, “02001” is written in the definition file 8, the control unit “func_a ()”, “ The functions “func_b ()”, “member_a ()”, and “member_b ()” are executed, and among the read target data 7, data instructed to be accessed by the function to be executed is read.

  On the other hand, when the identification number assigned to the process to be executed is not included in the definition file 8, the control unit 4 skips the process without executing the process.

  On the other hand, the definition file 8 shown in FIG. 4B is a definition file 8 having a format in which identification numbers of invalid processes (processes not to be executed) are listed. In the case of this format, the control unit 4 checks whether or not the definition file 8 includes an identification number assigned to the process to be executed when executing the process determined by the firmware 6. And when the identification number attached | subjected to the process to be performed is contained in the definition file 8, the control part 4 does not perform the process (it skips). For example, the control unit 4 reads from the storage location (address) of the HDD 53 defined by the process (function, instruction, routine, etc.) whose identification number is written in the definition file 8 and the read target data 7 determined by the process. Is not read. On the other hand, when the identification number assigned to the process to be executed is not included in the definition file 8, the control unit 4 causes the process to be executed.

  In the example of FIG. 4B, since the identification numbers “01004” and “02003” are written in the definition file 8, the control unit 6 adds the identification numbers written in the definition file 8. The functions “func_d ()” and “member_d ()” are not executed, and reading of the data instructed to be accessed by the function is prohibited from the read target data 7.

  On the other hand, the control unit 4 executes a process with an identification number that is not included in the definition file 8. In the example of FIG. 4B, since the definition file 8 does not have identification numbers “01001”, “01002”, and “02000”, the control unit performs “func_a ()”, “func_b ()”, “member_a”. The function indicated by () ”is executed, and the data instructed to be accessed by the function to be executed is read from the read target data 7.

  Thus, by including or not including the identification number in the definition file 8, it is possible to determine whether or not to execute a specific process among the processes included in the firmware 6. In order to define the execution or non-execution of such specific processing and to make the operation of the multifunction device 101 different from the conventional one, the multifunction device 101 of this embodiment only needs the definition file 8 and updates the firmware 6. No modification or rebuild is required.

  This definition file 8 is stored in the HDD 53. The definition file 8 is acquired by downloading from the storage medium 400 connected to the multifunction machine 101. Specifically, the user creates the definition file 8 using a computer or a portable information terminal (for example, a tablet terminal or a smartphone) so that a desired operation is performed. Then, the user stores the created definition file 8 in the storage medium 400. Subsequently, the user connects (inserts) the storage medium 400 storing the definition file 8 to the acquisition unit 44. When the acquisition unit 44 recognizes the connection of the storage medium 400 to the acquisition unit 44, the control unit 4 reads the definition file 8 stored in the storage medium 400 and stores it in the HDD 53.

  Note that the control unit 4 downloads the definition file 8 through communication not via the storage medium 400 by connecting the communication unit 43 of the multi-function peripheral 101 to a computer or a portable information terminal via wireless communication or wired communication. Alternatively, it may be stored in the HDD 53.

(Change in operation of embedded system 100 using definition file 8)
Next, an operation change of the embedded system 100 using the definition file 8 will be described with reference to FIGS. 3 and 5 to 8. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing the report setting screen S1. FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating an example of a correspondence relationship between a character string included in the report 9 and processing in the firmware 6. FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating an example of an identification number assigned to each process. FIG. 8 is a diagram for explaining the operation by the definition file 8 and the change of the execution result.

  Hereinafter, a change in the operation of the embedded system 100 using the definition file 8 (change in the obtained result) will be described. In the following example, printing and display of the report 9 will be described as an example, but the present invention is not limited to printing of the report 9. For example, by using the definition file 8 to invalidate a specific process in the firmware 6, even if a specific setting item is set, it is not reflected in the job, or specific information is not used at all. It is possible to prevent printing or display, or setting a setting value of a specific setting item or setting item itself so that buttons and keys are not displayed on the display unit 11.

  First, printing and display of the report 9 will be described. If information about the multi-function peripheral 101 can be printed and displayed, it is convenient for a serviceman or administrator who manages the multi-function peripheral 101 or a user who performs settings. Therefore, the multifunction peripheral 101 according to the present embodiment can print and display various reports 9. In order to print or display the report 9, the report setting screen S1 is displayed on the display unit 11. When a predetermined operation is performed on the operation panel 1, the control unit 4 causes the display unit 11 to display a report setting screen S1.

  The display unit 11 displays a plurality of print keys K1 in the report setting screen S1. The operation panel 1 (the control unit 4) recognizes whether an operation has been performed on any of the print keys K1 based on the output of the touch panel unit 12 (accepts an operation on the print key K1). Then, when an operation is performed on the print key K1, the control unit 4 recognizes that an instruction to print the report 9 corresponding to the operated print key K1 has been made. As a result, the control unit 4 causes the printing unit 3 to output a printed matter on which the report 9 corresponding to the operated print key K1 is written.

  The display unit 11 displays a plurality of display keys K2 in the report setting screen S1. The operation panel 1 (the control unit 4) recognizes whether an operation has been performed on any of the display keys K2 based on the output of the touch panel unit 12 (accepts an operation on the display key K2). Then, when an operation is performed on the display key K2, the control unit 4 recognizes that an instruction to display the report 9 corresponding to the operated display key K2 is made. As a result, the control unit 4 causes the display unit 11 to display the report 9 corresponding to the operated display key K2.

  Specifically, when an instruction to print or display the status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 is given (when the display position of the print key K1 or the display key K2 of the status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 is touched), control is performed. The unit 4 causes the report 9 to print and display the status report 9 of the multifunction peripheral 100 as the report 9. The status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 is a report 9 (printed matter or screen) including a plurality of pieces of information related to the state of the multifunction device 101.

  The HDD 53 stores status information 71 necessary for printing and displaying the status report 9 of the multifunction peripheral 100. In other words, the status information 71 is stored in the HDD 53 as the read target data 7 that is read when the function of printing or displaying the status report 9 of the multifunction peripheral 100 is executed (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the status information 71 is information regarding the state of the multifunction machine 101. The status information 71 includes information such as the model number of the multifunction machine 101, current setting contents (current setting values of various settings), information indicating the size and type of the installed memory, and options installed in the multifunction machine 101. Information such as an apparatus (such as the document transport unit 2a and a post-processing apparatus) and the total number of printed sheets is included. The status information 71 can include information other than the information described above, and includes predetermined information required for printing and displaying the status report 9 of the multifunction peripheral 100.

  When an instruction to print or display the status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 is given, the control unit 4 performs processing related to printing and display of the status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 in the firmware 6. Then, the control unit 4 reads the status information 71 from the HDD 53 in accordance with the definition content of the process. The control unit 4 uses the read status information 71 to print or display information indicating the state of the multifunction machine 101.

  When the network status report 9 is instructed to be printed or displayed (when the display position of the print key K1 or the display key K2 of the network status report 9 is touched), the control unit 4 The network status report 9 is printed or displayed. The network status report 9 is a report 9 (printed matter or screen) including a plurality of information related to communication.

  The HDD 53 stores network status information 72 necessary for printing and displaying the network status report 9. In other words, the network status information 72 is stored in the HDD 53 as the read target data 7 that is read when the function of printing or displaying the status report 9 relating to the network is executed (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the network status information 72 is information relating to communication of the multifunction machine 101. For example, the network status information 72 includes firmware 6 version information, the network address of the multifunction peripheral 101, information indicating a protocol used for communication, and the like. The network status information 72 can include information other than the above-described information, and includes predetermined information necessary for printing and displaying the network status report 9.

  When an instruction to print or display the status report 9 regarding the network is given, the control unit 4 performs processing of a portion of the firmware 6 regarding printing or display of the status report 9 regarding the network. Then, the control unit 4 reads the network status information 72 from the HDD 53 in accordance with the process definition content. Then, the control unit 4 uses the read network status information 72 to print or display information related to communication of the multifunction machine 101.

  When an instruction to print or display the job history report 9 is given (when the display position of the print key K1 or the display key K2 of the job history report 9 is touched), the control unit 4 reports the job history report 9 9 is printed and displayed. The job history report 9 is a report 9 (printed matter or screen) including a plurality of pieces of information relating to the status of the executed job.

  The HDD 53 stores job history information 73 required for printing and displaying the job history report 9. In other words, the job history information 73 is stored in the HDD 53 as the read target data 7 that is read when the printing or display function of the report 9 is executed (see FIG. 3). Specifically, the job history information 73 is information related to the history of printing and transmission jobs performed by the multifunction machine 101. The job history information 73 includes information on items such as the execution start date / time of each job, the execution completion date / time of each job, the type of job executed, the user who executed the job, and the data size of each job. . The job history information 73 can include information other than the information described above, and includes predetermined information required for printing and displaying the job history report 9.

  When an instruction to print or display the job history report 9 is given, the control unit 4 performs processing of a part of the firmware 6 relating to printing and display of the job history report 9. Then, the control unit 4 reads the job history information 73 from the HDD 53 in accordance with the processing definition content. Then, the control unit 4 uses the read job history information 73 to print and display a list in which the time related to the execution of the executed job and the contents of the job are described.

  In addition, a report 9 includes a font list that is a list of fonts built in the multifunction peripheral 101 and an address book (a list of database contents such as destination names and addresses stored in the storage unit 5 of the multifunction peripheral 101). It may be printed or displayed.

  Next, processing executed for printing and displaying the report 9 in the firmware 6 will be described with reference to FIGS. 6 and 7.

  FIG. 6 shows a part of processing in the firmware 6 executed when the report 9 is generated by including a character string based on data stored in the HDD 53 as an item (information). In FIG. 6, when the character string A to the character string H are included in the report 9 as information, the firmware 6 indicates that it is determined that the process A to the process H should be executed.

  Specifically, the control unit 4 reads the character string A from the read target data 7 included in the HDD 53 when the process A related to printing or display of the report 9 is executed in the firmware 6, and prints or displays it. To use. (Processing B to H and character strings B to H are the same). For example, when the character string A indicates the model number of the multi-function peripheral 101 and information on the model number of the multi-function peripheral 101 is included in the status report 9 of the multi-function peripheral 100, the status report 9 of the multi-function peripheral 100 of the firmware 6 is printed. The process A is included in the portion for displaying. When the status report 9 of the multifunction device 100 is printed or displayed, the control unit 4 executes a function, a command, or a routine corresponding to the process A in the firmware 6 to indicate the model number of the multifunction device 101 from the HDD 53. Read and use information.

  Further, as shown in FIG. 7, an identification number is assigned to a process included in the firmware 6. FIG. 7 shows that identification numbers “11001” to “11008” are assigned to eight processes A to H of the firmware 6.

  Next, a change in the result obtained by changing (updating) the definition file 8 will be described with reference to FIG. Note that the definition file 8 in FIG. 8 is a type of file that defines a process to be executed among the processes included in the firmware 6. If the definition file 8 is a type of file that defines a process not to be executed among the processes included in the firmware 6, the definition file 8 in FIG. 8 describes “11003”, “11005”, and “11007”. Will be.

  8 shows an example of the report 9 before the definition file 8 is changed. The report 9 before the change shows the default report 9. In other words, the report 9 generated when all the processes for generating the report 9 are executed in the firmware 6 installed in the multifunction peripheral 101 is shown.

  8 shows an example of the report 9 generated after the definition file 8 is changed. For example, the changed report 9 shows an example of the report 9 in which specific information (items, character strings) is omitted from the default report 9 based on the intention of the user. In other words, the report 9 generated when a part of the processing for generating the report 9 is not executed among the firmware 6 mounted on the multifunction peripheral 101 is shown.

  The multifunction machine 101 is exported around the world and used in various language areas. Then, the operation panel 1 accepts selection of a language of a character string used in the multifunction machine 101 such as a character displayed in the display unit 11 or a character included in the report 9 among a plurality of types of languages (for example, Japanese , English, Spanish, etc.). Character strings included in the display and the report 9 are translated in advance into a plurality of languages and stored in the HDD 53.

  Here, there are cases where the character string is translated into an inappropriate character string, such as being mistranslated or translated in a misleading sense. There is a user who does not want to include such an inappropriate character string in the report 9. In addition, we want to keep some of the information included in the report 9 confidential (including, depending on the specific thinking in the country and region where the MFP 101 is used, or the policy of the user's company or organization) There is also a case where the request of “I don't want to do it” is particularly high.

  In order to meet such a demand, it is necessary to remake the firmware 6 so that the character string (information) desired by the user is not included in the report 9. However, it takes time to recreate the firmware 6 and update the firmware 6.

  However, in the embedded system 100 of this embodiment, as shown in the upper right diagram of FIG. 8, by downloading the definition file 8 to the HDD 53, the operation of the embedded system 100 without changing the firmware 6. Or, the obtained result (the result of printing or displaying the report 9) can be changed.

  The lower left diagram in FIG. 8 shows an example of the definition file 8 before the change. Further, the lower right diagram in FIG. 8 shows an example of the definition file 8 after the change.

  Specifically, looking at the definition file 8 in FIG. 8, identification numbers in the range of “11001” to “11008” are defined in the definition file 8 before the change. Thereby, in the report 9, all the character strings A to H are generated, and all the character strings A to H are included in the report 9.

  On the other hand, in the definition file 8 after the change in FIG. 8, the identification number “11003” corresponding to the generation of the character string C (processing C) and the identification number “11005” corresponding to the generation of the character string E (processing E) The identification number “11007” corresponding to the generation (process G) of the character string G is not defined (is erased).

  As a result, the control unit 4 does not execute processing corresponding to the identification number deleted in the definition file 8 (identification number that is not defined). As a result, in the example illustrated in FIG. 8, the control unit 4 does not generate the character string C, the character string E, and the character string G based on the definition file 8 after the change. The character string G is not included in the report 9. In other words, the control unit 4 executes only the processing determined to be valid in the definition file 8.

(Execution of firmware 6 based on definition file 8)
Next, the flow of execution of the firmware 6 based on the definition file 8 in the embedded system 100 of this embodiment will be described using FIG. FIG. 9 is a flowchart showing an example of the flow of execution of the firmware 6 based on the definition file 8.

  In the start of FIG. 9, the control unit 4 operates the embedded system 100 to execute a process (function, instruction, routine) included in the firmware 6 in order to obtain a certain result (for example, printed matter of the report 9). It is time to start.

  First, the control unit 4 recognizes the definition file 8 (step # 1). For example, the control unit 4 reads the definition file 8 from the HDD 53 to the RAM 52 so that the definition file 8 can be referred to.

  Then, in order to obtain a result based on the user's instruction, the identification number assigned to the process to be executed first is compared with the definition file 8 (step # 2).

  Subsequently, the control unit 4 confirms whether or not the process compared with the definition file 8 (process to be executed from now on) may be executed (step # 3). Specifically, when the identification number assigned to the (valid) process that can be executed is defined in the definition file 8, the control unit 4 tries to execute among the identification numbers included in the definition file 8. If there is an identification number that matches the identification number of the process to be performed, it is determined that the process can be executed. If there is no matching identification number, it is determined that the process should not be executed. On the other hand, when an identification number indicating an undesired (invalid) process is defined in the definition file 8, the control unit 4 identifies the process to be executed among the identification numbers included in the definition file 8. If there is an identification number that matches the number, it is determined that the process should not be executed. If there is no matching identification number, it is determined that the process may be executed.

  If the process may be executed (Yes in step # 3), the control unit 4 executes the process based on the content of the process (function or instruction) (step # 4). For example, the control unit 4 performs processing for reading data defined by a function from the HDD 53, prints the read data as a report 9, and causes the display unit 11 to display the read data as a report 9.

  Then, after step # 4, the control unit 4 confirms whether or not there is a process to be executed in order to obtain a result based on the user's instruction (step # 5).

  If the process should not be executed (No in step # 3), the flow proceeds to step # 5. In this case, even if the execution of the process is defined in the firmware 6, the process is not executed.

  When there is still processing to be executed (Yes in step # 5), the control unit 4 compares the identification number of the processing to be executed next with the definition file 8 (step # 6). Then, the flow returns to step # 3.

  On the other hand, when there is no longer any processing to be executed (No in step # 5), this flow ends (end). Thus, by executing only effective processing based on the definition file 8, the user can change and adjust the operation of the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) and can customize it according to the user's request.

  In this way, the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) of the present embodiment is firmware that has been built in an executable format and each process (function, instruction, routine, etc.) included in the executable format is assigned an identification number. The first storage unit 5 (ROM 51) that stores 6 in a nonvolatile manner, the processing unit (control unit 4) that executes processing according to the firmware 6, and the validity / invalidity of the processing included in the firmware 6 are defined using an identification number Including the acquisition unit 44 for acquiring the definition file 8 to be executed, and the second storage unit 5 (HDD 53) for storing the definition file 8 acquired by the acquisition unit 44. Among them, the process with the identification number recognized as valid based on the definition file 8 is executed, and the process with the identification number recognized as invalid is processed as It was decided not to run.

  Conventionally, the firmware 6 of the embedded system 100 (multifunction machine 101) has to be changed in order to make the operation different from the current one. In other words, the operation based on the firmware 6 performed in the embedded system 100 cannot be changed except for the update of the firmware 6. However, it took time and effort to change the firmware 6.

  However, according to this configuration, the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) based on the firmware 6 is provided by the definition file 8 without correcting or adding the source code, or recompiling (rebuilding) the compile or link. The operation of the function to be performed and the execution result can be changed. In other words, the definition file 8 can make the operation of the embedded system 100 and its execution result different from the initial state. Further, it is possible to set the validity / invalidity of each process defined in the firmware 6 by the definition file 8 without changing the firmware 6. In addition, the definition file 8 using the identification number assigned to each process included in the firmware 6 can easily and quickly change the operation of the embedded system 100 and the execution result. Even if the developer is not a developer of the embedded system 100, the operation, function, and processing of the embedded system 100 can be customized (adjusted) according to the user's preference.

  The embedded system 100 (multifunction machine 101) of the present embodiment includes a printing unit 3 that prints the report 9 related to the embedded system 100 (multifunction machine 101). Then, the second storage unit 5 (HDD 53) stores read target data 7 that is data read based on the processing determined by the firmware 6, and the firmware 6 stores the read target data 7 of the second storage unit 5. Among them, the processing unit (control unit 4) includes a process for reading out data necessary for printing the report 9 and processing for causing the printing unit 3 to print the read data. Based on the above, it is confirmed whether or not each process included in the firmware 6 determined to be necessary for printing the report 9 is to be executed, and the effective process is determined according to the process definition from the read target data 7. Data is read, and the read data is printed in the report 9. For invalid processing, data corresponding to the processing definition is not read from the read target data 7. Unishi Te, data corresponding to the invalid processing was decided to not be printed on the report 9.

  As a result, the user can freely change the information printed on the report 9 based on the definition file 8 so as to prevent unnecessary information from being printed. In addition, the user defines an identification number in the definition file 8 and changes the printing operation and print result of the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) so that only necessary information and items are printed on the report 9. Can do. Therefore, the user can freely obtain the report 9 that suits his / her preference.

  The embedded system 100 (multifunction machine 101) of the present embodiment includes a display unit 11 that displays a report 9 related to the embedded system 100 (multifunction machine 101). Then, the second storage unit 5 (HDD 53) stores read target data 7 that is data read based on the processing determined by the firmware 6, and the firmware 6 stores the read target data 7 of the second storage unit 5. Among them, the processing unit (control unit 4) includes a process for reading out data necessary for displaying the report 9 and displaying the read data on the display unit 11. Based on the above, it is confirmed whether or not each process included in the firmware 6 determined to be necessary for displaying the report 9 is to be executed, and the effective process is determined according to the process definition from the read target data 7. Data is read, the read data is displayed in the report 9, and for invalid processing, data corresponding to the processing definition is not read from the read target data 7. And so, the data corresponding to the invalid processing was possible not appear in the report 9.

  Thus, the user can define the identification number in the definition file 8 and change the contents of the display performed by the embedded system 100 so that only necessary information and items are displayed. Therefore, the user can freely cause the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) to perform a display suitable for his / her preference.

  The definition file 8 is defined in a format in which an identification number of a valid process is defined and does not include an identification number to be invalidated, or does not include an identification number of a valid process and includes an identification number to be invalidated. It was decided to be done.

  Thus, by including or not including the identification number in the definition file 8, it is possible to easily define whether each of the processes included in the firmware 6 is valid or invalid.

  The acquisition unit 44 acquires the definition file 8 from the connected portable storage medium 400, and the second storage unit 5 (HDD 53) acquires the definition file 8 based on the definition file 8 acquired by the acquisition unit 44. I decided to update it.

  Thereby, the definition file 8 created by the user from the storage medium 400 such as a memory card or the external HDD 53 can be easily stored in the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101).

  The image forming apparatus (multifunction peripheral 101) according to the embodiment includes the embedded system 100 according to the embodiment. Thus, the function provided by the embedded system 100 (multifunction peripheral 101) based on the firmware 6, the operation of the embedded system 100, and the processing result can be easily changed without recompiling (building) the compile or linking. An image forming apparatus that can be used can be provided.

  In the above description, the MFP 101 is taken as an example of the embedded system 100, but the present invention can also be applied to an embedded system 100 (image forming apparatus) such as a copying machine, a FAX apparatus, or a printer. The present invention can also be applied to an embedded system 100 (such as a control terminal) that performs either printing or display.

  Moreover, although the embodiment of the present invention has been described, the scope of the present invention is not limited to this, and various modifications can be made without departing from the spirit of the invention.

  The present invention is applicable to an image forming apparatus including a communication unit 43 that performs short-range wireless communication with a portable communication device. Further, the present invention can also be used for a communication system including the image forming apparatus and the portable communication device and a method for controlling the portable communication device.

100 embedded system (multifunction machine) 101 multifunction machine (image forming apparatus)
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Operation panel 11 Display part 4 Control part (processing part) 44 Acquisition part 5 Storage part 51 ROM (1st storage part)
53 HDD (second storage unit) 6 Firmware 7 Data to be read 8 Definition file 9 Report

Claims (3)

A first storage unit that nonvolatilely stores firmware in which an identification number is assigned to each function that is built and included in an executable format;
A processing unit for executing a function according to the firmware;
An acquisition unit for acquiring a definition file for defining validity / invalidity of a function included in the firmware using the identification number;
A second storage unit for storing the definition file acquired by the acquisition unit;
A print department for printing reports on embedded systems;
A display for displaying reports on embedded systems;
Including
The definition file is defined in a format not including the identification number of the function to be enabled and including the identification number of the function to be invalidated,
The second storage unit stores read target data that is data read based on a function defined by the firmware,
The processing unit confirms whether the identification number assigned to the function to be executed is included in the definition file, and the identification number assigned to the function to be executed is included in the definition file. If the function is not executed, reading of the data designated by the function among the data to be read is prohibited and the identification number assigned to the function to be executed is included in the definition file. If not, read the data indicated by the function among the data to be read by executing the function,
The firmware includes a function for reading out data necessary for printing the report from the read target data in the second storage unit, and causing the printing unit to print the read data.
When printing the report, the processing unit confirms whether or not to execute each function included in the firmware defined as necessary for printing the report based on the definition file. Reads data corresponding to a function from the read target data, causes the read data to be printed in the report, and for invalid functions, does not read data corresponding to the function from the read target data. , Ensure that data corresponding to invalid functions is not printed in the report,
The firmware includes a function for reading out data necessary for displaying the report from the read target data in the second storage unit, and displaying the read data on the display unit,
When displaying the report, the processing unit confirms whether or not to execute each function included in the firmware that is determined to be necessary for displaying the report based on the definition file. Reads data corresponding to a function from the data to be read, displays the read data in the report, and for invalid functions, does not read data corresponding to the function from the data to be read. An embedded system that prevents data corresponding to invalid functions from being displayed in the report.
The acquisition unit acquires the definition file from a connected portable storage medium,
The embedded system according to claim 1 , wherein the second storage unit updates the definition file based on the definition file acquired by the acquisition unit. An image forming apparatus comprising an embedded system according to claim 1 or 2.

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