JP6550753B2 - INFORMATION PROCESSING SYSTEM AND INFORMATION PROCESSING METHOD - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an information processing system and an information processing method.

  2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, among devices such as an image forming apparatus, there is one that can execute processing requested by a user in cooperation with an external information processing apparatus (hereinafter, referred to as "external apparatus"). For example, when image data scanned by a device is transmitted to an external device, the external device executes an OCR (Optical Character Recognition) process, and uses the result of the OCR process to distribute the image data to a predetermined distribution destination. There is.

  As described above, when a device and an external device cooperate with each other, the cooperation procedure is generally set in advance. For example, in the above example, it is set in advance for the device that the request destination of the OCR processing is an external device. The device requests an external device for OCR processing based on the presetting.

  However, according to the preset, even if the processing is executable by the device (for example, the OCR processing), the execution is always requested to the external device. Generally, the performance of hardware resources is higher in an external device than in a device, so even if the processing is executable by the device, it is often more efficient to execute in an external device. However, depending on the load condition of the external device, the contents of the process, etc., it may be more efficient for the device to execute the process.

  The present invention has been made in view of the above points, and an object of the present invention is to improve the flexibility of processing cooperation between a device and an information processing apparatus.

In order to solve the above problem, an information processing system includes a device and an information processing apparatus connected to the device via a network. When the device receives a processing request, the information processing system performs the requested processing. A first generation unit that generates a first index value having a correlation with a required time when the device is executed based on information indicating the content of the process, and a first generation unit that is generated by the first generation unit. 1 index value and information indicating the contents of the process are transmitted to the information processing apparatus, and the information processing apparatus uses the transmitted first index value and information indicating the contents of the process to perform the process. A first transmission / reception unit that receives identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined as request destinations for performing the execution of the information processing device, and a plurality of the identification information received by the first transmission / reception unit Among multiple request destinations A receiver for receiving a selection of Kano requested from the user, the request destination which the accepting unit accepts the selection, a request unit for requesting execution of the process,
A second index value having a correlation with a required time when the information processing apparatus executes the process based on the information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device. And the second index value transmitted from the device is compared with the second index value generated by the second generation section to execute the process. A determination unit that determines a plurality of request destinations , and a transmission unit that transmits the identification information indicating each of the plurality of request destinations determined by the determination unit to the device.

  It is possible to improve the flexibility regarding the coordination of processing between the device and the information processing apparatus.

It is a figure showing an example of composition of an information processing system in a first embodiment. FIG. 2 is a diagram illustrating an example of a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the first embodiment. It is a figure which shows the hardware structural example of the external device in 1st embodiment. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the information processing system in 1st embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 1st Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the reading completion screen in 1st embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 2nd Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the example of a display of the reading completion screen in 2nd embodiment. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the information processing system in 3rd embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 3rd Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a process log | history memory | storage part. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the information processing system in 4th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure of registration processing of candidate information. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a candidate information storage part. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 4th Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the information processing system in 5th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 5th Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the function structural example of the information processing system in 6th Embodiment. It is a sequence diagram for demonstrating an example of the process sequence which the information processing system in 6th Embodiment performs regarding a scan application. It is a figure which shows the structural example of a selection condition memory | storage part.

  Hereinafter, a first embodiment will be described based on the drawings. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of an information processing system according to the first embodiment. In the information processing system 1 shown in FIG. 1, the external device 20 is communicably connected to various devices via a network N1. The network N1 is, for example, a LAN (Local Area Network), the Internet, or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) cable. As one example of various devices, FIG. 1 shows one or more image forming apparatuses 10, one or more projectors 50, one or more digital cameras 60, one or more teleconference systems 70, and one or more electronic blackboards 80. It is done.

  The image forming apparatus 10 is, for example, a scanner, a printer, or a multifunction machine. In the present embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 performs image processing on image data input by scanning a paper document. In addition, the image forming apparatus 10 requests or delegates the external device 20 (hereinafter, unified by “request”) to some or all of the image processing related to the image data input to the image forming apparatus 10, for example. Whether or not the image processing is requested to the external device 20 varies depending on the content of the image processing, the state of the external device 20, and the like. Each image forming apparatus 10 may be installed in the same office or school, or may be installed in a different office or school. A device other than the image forming apparatus 10 may request the external device 20 to perform processing. For example, the projector 50, the digital camera 60, the teleconference system 70, the electronic blackboard 80, or another device may request the external device 20 to process.

  The external device 20 is a computer or the like that executes a process requested by the image forming apparatus 10. The processing performance of the external device 20 is preferably higher than that of the image forming apparatus 10 that is the request source of the processing. By using a computer with higher processing performance than the image forming apparatus 10 as the external apparatus 20, the image forming apparatus 10 executes all image processing related to image data input to the image forming apparatus 10. It can be expected that the processing time can be shortened by requesting the external device 20 for a part or all of the image processing. The external device 20 may be a computer or computer system that provides a service in the form of a cloud service, a web service, or an application provider, or the same as an organization such as a company in which the image forming apparatus 10 is installed. It may be a computer or a computer system such as a PC (Personal Computer) installed in the organization.

  FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus in the first embodiment. 2, the image forming apparatus 10 includes hardware such as a controller 11, a scanner 12, a printer 13, a modem 14, an operation panel 15, a network interface 16, and an SD card slot 17.

  The controller 11 includes a CPU 111, a RAM 112, a ROM 113, an HDD 114, an NVRAM 115, and the like. The ROM 113 stores various programs and data used by the programs. The RAM 112 is used as a storage area for loading a program, a work area for the loaded program, and the like. The CPU 111 realizes various functions by processing a program loaded in the RAM 112. The HDD 114 stores programs, various data used by the programs, and the like. The NVRAM 115 stores various setting information and the like.

  The scanner 12 is hardware (image reading means) for reading image data from a paper document. The printer 13 is hardware (printing means) for printing print data on printing paper. The modem 14 is hardware for connecting to a telephone line, and is used to execute transmission / reception of image data by FAX communication. The operation panel 15 is hardware including an input unit such as a button for receiving an input from a user, a display unit such as a liquid crystal panel, and the like. The liquid crystal panel may have a touch panel function. In this case, the liquid crystal panel also functions as an input unit. The network interface 16 is hardware for connecting to a network such as a LAN (whether wired or wireless). The SD card slot 17 is used to read a program stored in the SD card 18. That is, in the image forming apparatus 10, not only the program stored in the ROM 113 but also the program stored in the SD card 18 can be loaded into the RAM 112 and executed. The SD card 18 may be replaced by another recording medium (for example, a CD-ROM or a USB (Universal Serial Bus) memory, etc.). That is, the type of recording medium corresponding to the positioning of the SD card 18 is not limited to a predetermined one. In this case, the SD card slot 17 may be replaced by hardware corresponding to the type of recording medium.

  FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of the external device in the first embodiment. The external device 20 in FIG. 3 includes a drive device 200, an auxiliary storage device 202, a memory device 203, a CPU 204, and an interface device 205 that are connected to each other via a bus B.

  A program for realizing the processing in the external device 20 is provided by a recording medium 201 such as a CD-ROM. When the recording medium 201 storing the program is set in the drive device 200, the program is installed from the recording medium 201 to the auxiliary storage device 202 via the drive device 200. However, the installation of the program does not necessarily have to be performed from the recording medium 201, and may be downloaded from another computer via a network. The auxiliary storage device 202 stores the installed program and stores necessary files and data.

  The memory device 203 reads the program from the auxiliary storage device 202 and stores it when there is an instruction to start the program. The CPU 204 executes functions related to the external device 20 in accordance with a program stored in the memory device 203. The interface device 205 is used as an interface for connecting to a network.

  The external device 20 may be configured by a plurality of computers having hardware as shown in FIG. That is, the process which the external device 20 performs later may be distributed to a plurality of computers and executed.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the first embodiment. In FIG. 4, a scan application 121 is installed in the image forming apparatus 10. The scan application 121 includes reading image data from a document, image processing relating to the read image data (for example, OCR (Optical Character Recognition) processing), and distribution processing of data obtained as a result of the image processing. Is an application program that causes the image forming apparatus 10 to execute a processing flow including In the present embodiment, the scan application 121 causes the CPU 111 of the image forming apparatus 10 to function as the reading control unit 131, the processing path inquiry unit 132, the image processing unit 133, the external cooperation unit 134, and the distribution unit 135. That is, the image forming apparatus 10 includes these units. Further, the image forming apparatus 10 uses the process setting storage unit 141. The process setting storage unit 141 can be realized using the HDD 114 or a storage device connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via a network.

  The reading control unit 131 controls reading (scanning) of image data from a document set on the image forming apparatus 10. Hereinafter, image data read from a document is referred to as a “scanned image”. The processing path inquiry unit 132 inquires (inquires) the external apparatus 20 about the processing path related to the scanned image. The processing path is information in which identification information of request destinations (that is, executor of the process) of each process (each stage) constituting the process flow related to the scan image is arranged in the order of execution of each process. In the present embodiment, the request destination (executor) of distribution processing among image processing and distribution processing for a scanned image dynamically changes. Therefore, the query of the processing path corresponds to the query of the request destination of the image processing. However, the request destination of the distribution process may be dynamically changed.

  The image processing unit 133 performs image processing on the scanned image when the scanned image request destination is the image forming apparatus 10. For example, the image processing unit 133 performs conversion of a scan image into Portable Document Format (PDF), execution of an OCR on the scan image, and composition of text data extracted by the OCR into PDF. In this case, a PDF with text is generated. However, only OCR processing may be executed, or other image processing may be executed. The image processing unit 133 also predicts the time required for image processing. The predicted value of the required time is used as a determination material in the determination of the request destination of the image processing.

  When the image processing request destination is the external device 20, the external cooperation unit 134 requests the external device 20 to perform image processing on the scanned image. The distribution unit 135 distributes data generated by image processing to a predetermined distribution destination.

  The processing setting storage unit 141 stores information including a default value of setting information related to reading of a scanned image, a default value of setting information related to image processing, a default value of setting information related to distribution processing, and the like (hereinafter referred to as “processing setting”). ) Is stored.

  The external device 20 includes a processing path generation unit 21, an image processing unit 22, and the like. The processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path on the basis of processing setting and the like (that is, the content of processing) in response to the inquiry of the processing path regarding the scan image. The image processing unit 22 performs image processing on the scanned image when it is determined that the request destination of the image processing is the external device 20. Further, the image processing unit 22 predicts the required time of the image processing. The predicted value of the required time is used as a determination material in the determination of the request destination of the image processing. Note that the image processing unit 22 basically desirably has a higher processing speed than the image processing unit 133. Further, the image processing unit 22 may be more advantageous than the image processing unit 133 with regard to quality (for example, the recognition accuracy of the OCR, etc.). However, the required time may be shorter for the image processing unit 133 depending on the state of the external device 20 (for example, the load state) and the content of the process.

  Hereinafter, the processing procedure executed by the information processing system 1 will be described. FIG. 5 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure that the information processing system according to the first embodiment executes with respect to the scan application. In FIG. 5, the user operates the image forming apparatus 10.

  In step S101, the user inputs a document reading instruction via the operation panel 15 of the image forming apparatus 10. At this time, the default process settings stored in the process setting storage unit 141 are displayed on the operation panel 15. The user can change some or all of the predetermined processing settings as needed. For example, the reading setting, the delivery destination, and the like may be changed.

  Subsequently, the reading control unit 131 causes the scanner 12 to read image data from a document set by the user (S102). The scan image generated by the reading process follows the contents of the process setting. Subsequently, the reading control unit 131 designates the process setting and the generated scan image, and requests the process path inquiry unit 132 to execute the process (S103).

  Subsequently, the processing path inquiry unit 132 specifies the scan image and the processing setting, and requests the image processing unit 133 to predict (estimate) the time required for image processing for the scan image (S104). The image processing unit 133 generates (estimates) a predicted value of the required time of the image processing by the image processing unit 133 based on the meta information of the scan image, the setting information on the image processing in the processing setting, and the like. The meta information of the scan image is attribute information of the scan image, such as data size, resolution, number of pages, black and white / color, etc. of the scan image. Note that the meta information of the scanned image may be specified instead of the scanned image in the required time prediction request. Hereinafter, the predicted value of the required time is referred to as "estimated time".

  For example, the predicted time may be calculated (generated) based on a preset calculation formula. Among the items constituting the contents of image processing such as meta information such as resolution and the number of pages, and setting information related to image processing, the formula is a variable having the value of the item affecting the required time. May be In this case, the image processing unit 133 can calculate (generate) the prediction time by applying values to the variables based on the meta information, the processing setting, and the like. Alternatively, the prediction time may be stored in advance for each combination of the values of the variables in the calculation formula. Further, a parameter indicating the state of the image processing unit 133 may be included in a variable such as the above calculation formula. For example, the storage amount of the image processing requested to the image processing unit 133 (for example, the storage amount of the job for the job queue) may be included in the variable. By doing so, the possibility that the prediction time corresponding to the current load state can be obtained can be increased.

  Also, by temporarily executing the requested image processing, a prediction time may be generated. The contents of the provisional execution may be, for example, a part of executing the image processing or a simplified content of each stage of the image processing. In any case, it is desirable that the time required for temporary execution is sufficiently shorter than the time required for actual image processing. The required time for temporary execution may be used as the prediction time as it is, or the product of the required time for temporary execution and a predetermined coefficient may be used as the predicted time for image processing.

  Furthermore, the prediction time may be calculated or generated using another known method related to prediction of the time required for image processing.

  Subsequently, the image processing unit 133 sends the predicted time back to the processing route inquiry unit 132 (S105). Hereinafter, the prediction time generated by the image processing unit 133 is referred to as “prediction time A”. The processing path inquiry unit 132 transmits the processing path generation request of the external device 20 to the processing path generation unit 21 of the external device 20 by designating the meta information of the scan image, the processing setting, and the prediction time A (S106). The reason why the scan image is not specified is to reduce the network load for querying the processing path as much as possible and to avoid the decrease in responsiveness to the user.

  In response to the inquiry request, the processing path generation unit 21 designates meta information and processing setting, and requests the image processing unit 22 to predict the required time for image processing on the scan image (S107). The image processing unit 22 generates a predicted value (predicted time) of the time required for image processing by the image processing unit 22 based on the meta information, setting information regarding image processing in the processing setting, and the like. The predicted time may be generated by the same method as the image processing unit 133 or may be generated by a different method. In particular, since the external device 20 is highly likely to receive requests from a plurality of image forming apparatuses 10 and the like, there is a high possibility that image processing requests may be stored in the job queue. Therefore, in the generation of the prediction time by the image processing unit 22, the weighting may be increased with respect to the load state (the accumulation amount of the job queue) of the external device 20 and the like. Further, when the performances of the image processing unit 22 and the image processing unit 133 are different, the calculation formula or the coefficients of the calculation formula may be different from those of the image processing unit 133.

  Subsequently, the image processing unit 22 returns the predicted time to the processing path generation unit 21 (S108). Hereinafter, the prediction time generated by the image processing unit 22 is referred to as “prediction time B”. Subsequently, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path (S109). First, the processing path generation unit 21 compares the predicted time A and the predicted time B to determine a request destination for image processing. In the present embodiment, if the prediction time A is smaller, it is determined that the request destination of the image processing (for example, the OCR processing) is the image forming apparatus 10. On the other hand, if the predicted time B is shorter, it is determined that the image processing request destination is the external device 20. In the determination of the processing path, the load of the network between the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 (that is, the communication time) may be taken into consideration. That is, when the image processing is performed in the external device 20, the scan image needs to be transferred from the image forming device 10 to the external device 20. The time required for this transfer (transfer time) may be added to the predicted time B and compared with the predicted time A. For example, if the communication speed of the network is measured in advance and the data size is included in the meta information of the scan image, the transfer time of the scan image can be calculated by the following equation.

Scan image transfer time = scan image data size ÷ communication speed The communication time may be measured when the network load is small. By doing so, a minimum transfer time can be obtained. Also, if possible, the current communication speed may be measured. Furthermore, the transfer time when data generated by image processing is returned from the external device 20 to the image forming apparatus 10 may be added to the predicted time B. In this case, a predicted value may be used as the size of data generated by image processing.

  The processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path based on the determination result of the image processing request destination, and returns the generated processing path to the processing path inquiry unit 132 (S110). When the request destination of the image processing is the image forming apparatus 10, the contents of the processing path are, for example, “image processing [image forming apparatus] → distribution processing [image forming apparatus]”. Further, when the request destination of the image processing is an external device, the contents of the processing path are, for example, “image processing [external device] → distribution processing [image forming apparatus]”. That is, the information in the parentheses indicates the identification information of the request destination of the process indicated immediately before the parentheses. In the present embodiment, the distribution process is fixedly executed by the image forming apparatus 10, so the request destination is the image forming apparatus 10 in any processing route.

  Subsequently, the processing route inquiry unit 132 makes a processing execution request to the request destination of the first processing in the processing route (S111). In the execution request, a scan image, a processing setting, and a processing path are designated. FIG. 5 shows an example in which the request destination is the image forming apparatus 10. Therefore, execution of processing is requested to the image processing unit 133 in the image forming apparatus 10.

  The processing path inquiry unit 132 also notifies the reading control unit 131 of the processing path (S121). This is because, in the present embodiment, the reading control unit 131 also takes charge of control of the user interface of the scan application 121. Subsequently, the reading control unit 131 notifies the user of the completion of reading and the processing path (S122). For example, the reading control unit 131 displays a reading completion screen on the operation panel 15 to notify the user of the reading completion and the processing path.

  FIG. 6 is a view showing a display example of a reading completion screen in the first embodiment. In FIG. 6, the reading completion screen 510 includes a character string (“reading completed”) indicating the completion of reading and a processing path. In the processing path, “this machine” means the image forming apparatus 10. The reading completion screen 510 includes a required time. The required time may be the predicted time A, or may be a value obtained by adding the predicted value of the required time of the distribution process to the predicted time A. If the request destination of the image processing is the external device 20, the required time is, for example, a value obtained by adding the required time of the distribution process to the predicted time B or the predicted time B.

  On the other hand, the image processing unit 133 that has received the processing execution request from the processing path inquiry unit 132 executes image processing on the scanned image specified in the execution request (S112). The content of the image processing follows the setting information for the image processing in the processing setting specified in the execution request. Subsequently, the image processing unit 133 makes a distribution execution request to the distribution unit 135 corresponding to the process following “image processing” in the processing path specified in the execution request (S113). In the execution request, the execution result of the image processing is specified in addition to the processing setting and the processing path. For example, when a PDF with text is generated by the image processing, the PDF with text is specified in the execution request.

  Subsequently, the distribution unit 135 executes distribution processing for the execution result of the image processing specified in the execution request (S114). The delivery destination or the like follows the processing setting specified in the execution request. When the distribution unit 135 confirms that the process executed by itself is the end in the processing path, the distribution unit 135 notifies the image processing unit 133 of the execution result of the distribution process (S115).

  When a processing path indicating that the image processing request destination is the external device 20 is returned in step S110, the processing path inquiry unit 132 sends an image processing execution request similar to that in step S111 to the external cooperation unit. It transmits to the image processing unit 22 of the external device 20 via 134. The image processing unit 22 executes image processing on the scan image specified in the execution request. When the image processing unit 22 confirms that the destination of the distribution processing request is the image forming apparatus 10 based on the processing path specified in the execution request, the image processing unit 22 receives the request via the external cooperation unit 134 of the image forming apparatus 10. The distribution processing execution request similar to that in step S113 is transmitted to the distribution unit 135.

  As described above, according to the first embodiment, the image forming apparatus 10 inquires the external device 20 about the processing path for the scan image, and switches the processing request destination according to the inquiry result. Therefore, the flexibility regarding the cooperation of processing between the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 can be improved.

  Further, with regard to processing (image processing in the present embodiment) in which the request destination is dynamically changed, the request destination is determined based on the prediction time of each candidate of the request destination. Therefore, the responsiveness of the process to the user can also be improved.

  The predicted values generated by the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22 may not necessarily be the absolute required time. For example, it may be a relative value obtained by evaluating the required time by five steps. Also, processing speed may be generated instead of prediction time. The processing speed may also be an absolute value or a relative value. That is, the predicted value may be any value as long as it is an index value having a correlation with the required time. When the predicted value is the processing speed, the processing path generation unit 21 may select the one with the smaller predicted value as the request destination. The predicted values are the same as in the following embodiments.

  Next, a second embodiment will be described. In the second embodiment, points different from the first embodiment will be described. Accordingly, points not particularly mentioned may be the same as those in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 7 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing system according to the second embodiment regarding a scan application. In FIG. 7, the same steps as those in FIG.

  In FIG. 7, steps S109, S110, S121, and S122 are replaced with steps S109a, S110a, S121a, and S122a.

  In step S109a, the processing path generation unit 21 compares the prediction time A and the prediction time B to determine which one of the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 is recommended as a request destination for image processing. Further, the processing path generation unit 21 generates processing paths for all realizable processing paths. Therefore, in the present embodiment, both processing paths of “image processing [image forming apparatus] → distribution processing [image forming apparatus]” and “image processing [external device] → distribution processing [image forming apparatus]” are generated. Be done.

  In steps S110a and S121a, all generated processing paths are transmitted. At this time, it may be distinguished which one of the recommended processing paths is. For example, a recommended processing path may be the first element in an array of processing paths having each processing path as an element. In step S122a, the reading control unit 131 displays a reading completion screen including each processing path as an option.

  FIG. 8 is a diagram illustrating a display example of a reading completion screen in the second embodiment. The read completion screen 520 shown in FIG. 8 includes, as options, two processing paths that can be realized in the present embodiment. That is, the rectangular area 521 and the rectangular area 522 are respectively selectable areas.

  As described above, in the second embodiment, all processing paths are presented to the user, and the processing path is selected by the user. Therefore, step S111 is not executed.

  When one of the rectangular areas 521 and 522 is selected by the user (S131), the reading control unit 131 designates the processing path, the scanned image, and the processing setting related to the selected rectangular area, A process execution request is issued to the request destination of the first process in the process path (S132). FIG. 7 shows an example in which the rectangular area 521 is selected. Therefore, execution of processing is requested to the image processing unit 133 in the image forming apparatus 10.

  The subsequent steps are the same as in FIG. If the rectangular area 522 is selected, the reading control unit 131 transmits an image processing execution request similar to that in step S132 to the image processing unit 22 of the external device 20 via the external cooperation unit 134. The image processing unit 22 performs image processing on the scanned image specified in the execution request. When the image processing unit 22 confirms that the destination of the distribution processing request is the image forming apparatus 10 based on the processing path specified in the execution request, the image processing unit 22 receives the request via the external cooperation unit 134 of the image forming apparatus 10. A delivery execution request similar to step S113 is sent to the delivery unit 135.

  As described above, according to the second embodiment, an opportunity for selecting a processing path can be given to the user. Therefore, for example, even if the image forming apparatus 10 is advantageous in the prediction time, the user may want to lighten the load on the image forming apparatus 10 in order to continue using the image forming apparatus 10, etc. The user can select a processing path that reduces the load on the image forming apparatus 10.

  Next, a third embodiment will be described. In the third embodiment, points different from the first embodiment will be described. Accordingly, points not particularly mentioned may be the same as those in the first embodiment.

  FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the third embodiment. In FIG. 9, the same parts as those in FIG. 4 are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  In FIG. 9, the external device 20 further uses a processing history storage unit 211. The processing history storage unit 211 stores a history of past performance information and the like regarding the execution of the processing flow related to the scan application 121. The performance information includes, for example, a performance value of the required time of the image processing. The processing history storage unit 211 can be realized using the auxiliary storage device 202 or a storage device or the like that can be connected to the external device 20 via a network.

  FIG. 10 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing system according to the third embodiment regarding the scan application. In FIG. 10, the same steps as those in FIG. 5 are denoted by the same step numbers and the description thereof is omitted.

  In FIG. 10, steps S104 and S105 are not performed. That is, the generation of the predicted time A by the image processing unit 133 is not performed. Therefore, the predicted time A is not designated in the query request in step S106a. Also, steps S107 and S108 are not executed. That is, the predicted time B is not generated by the image processing unit 22.

  Subsequent to step S106a, the processing path generation unit 21 acquires a processing history from the processing history storage unit 211 (S141, S142).

  FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating an example of the configuration of the processing history storage unit. In FIG. 11, the processing history storage unit 211 stores a record each time a processing flow related to the scan application 121 is executed. Each record includes items such as processing history ID, generation date / time, tenant ID, device ID, distribution destination, number of pages, file format, OCR language, OCR processing time (device), OCR processing time (external), and result. .

  The “processing history ID” is identification information for each record. Hereinafter, each record is referred to as “processing history”. “Generation date” is the date when the processing history was generated. The “tenant ID” is identification information for each tenant such as a company that has a contract for using a service provided by the external device 20. The “device ID” is identification information for identifying each machine of the image forming apparatus 10 in the information processing system 1. “Distribution destination” is identification information of a distribution destination in the distribution process of the process flow related to the process history. The “number of pages” is the number of pages of the scan image in the processing flow. The “file format” is a file format of data generated by image processing on the scanned image. The OCR language is a specification of a language to be extracted, which is one of setting items for the OCR process in the process setting for the process flow. The OCR processing time (apparatus) is an actual value of a required time by the image forming apparatus 10 for the OCR processing in the processing flow. The OCR processing time (external) is an actual value of the required time by the external device 20 for the OCR processing in the processing flow. Since OCR processing is performed by one of the image forming apparatus 10 and the external device 20 in one processing flow, the OCR processing time (device) and the OCR processing time (external) in each processing history are different. One of the values is empty. Further, FIG. 11 is based on an example in which the image processing performed by the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22 is an OCR process. The “result” is information indicating success or failure of execution of the processing flow.

  In steps S141 and S142, the values of items related to image processing, such as “number of pages”, “file format”, and “OCR language”, are selected from the plurality of processing histories. Processing history matching or similar to number, file type, and OCR language is obtained. The number of pages and the file format related to the current processing flow can be acquired from the meta information received in step S106a, for example. The OCR result according to the current processing flow can be acquired from the processing setting received in step S106 a.

  Similarity of values of items related to image processing may be determined in any manner. For example, the difference in the value of “number of pages” may be within two pages. Further, the acquisition target may be limited to a processing history in which the “result” value is successful. For the processing history having the value of “OCR result processing time (device)”, the values of “tenant ID” and “device ID” are the tenant ID and device ID related to the image forming apparatus 10 that is the transmission source of the inquiry request. The acquisition target may be limited to the process history that matches the above. In this case, a tenant ID and a device ID may be specified in the inquiry request.

  Subsequently, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path based on the acquired processing history (S109b). First, based on the acquired processing history, the processing path generation unit 21 executes the image processing with the external device 20 and the predicted value of the required time (the prediction time A) when the image processing is performed by the image forming apparatus 10 A predicted value (predicted time B) of the required time is generated. For generation of the prediction time A, a processing history having a value of “OCR processing time (device)” among the acquired processing histories is used. For example, the average value, the maximum value, or the minimum value of the “OCR processing time (device)” of all the corresponding records may be set as the prediction time A. Or the prediction time A may be produced | generated by the other statistical process regarding all applicable records. The predicted time B is generated by the same method as the processing time A except that the processing history having the value of “OCR processing time (external)” is used among the acquired processing history. It is also good. The processing path generation unit 21 compares the predicted time A with the predicted time B to determine or select a processing path. At this time, the transfer time of a scan image or the like may be added to the prediction time B, as in the above embodiments.

  Subsequently, the process up to step S115 may be the same as in FIG. Subsequent to step S115, the image processing unit 133 generates a processing history, and transmits the processing history to the external device 20 (S151). The current date / time is applied to the “generation date / time” of the processing history. The tenant ID and the device ID stored in advance in the image forming apparatus 10 are applied to the “tenant ID” and the “device ID”. Values included in the processing settings are applied to “transmission destination”, “file format”, and “OCR language”. The number of pages of the scan image is applied to the “number of pages”. The actual value of the time required for image processing by the image processing unit 133 is applied to “OCR processing time (device)”. That is, in the third embodiment, the image processing unit 133 measures the time required for its processing. The “result” is an AND (logical product) of the results of the distribution process and the image process. That is, if both are successful, the value of "Result" is "Success", and if at least one of them fails, the value of "Result" is "Fail".

  When the external device 20 receives the processing history, the external device 20 stores the processing history in the processing history storage unit 211 (S152). At this time, a processing history ID is assigned to the processing history.

  If image processing is executed by the image processing unit 22, the processing history may be generated by the distribution unit 135 and transmitted to the external device 20 by the distribution unit 135. In response to the distribution process execution request to the distribution unit 135, the image processing unit 22 designates the actual value of the time required for the processing by itself. That is, in the third embodiment, the image processing unit 22 measures the required time of its own processing. The distribution unit 135 applies the required time to “processing time (external)” of the processing history.

  As described above, according to the third embodiment, based on the actual value of the time required for image processing according to the same or similar condition as the image processing to be executed this time among the image processing executed in the past. , Prediction time A and prediction time B can be generated.

  The generation method of the prediction time by the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22 in the first and second embodiments may be the same as in the third embodiment. That is, each of the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22 may record the history of the processing time performed by itself in the past, and generate the predicted time using the history.

  Next, a fourth embodiment will be described. In the fourth embodiment, points different from the first embodiment or the third embodiment will be described. Therefore, the points not particularly mentioned may be the same as those in the first embodiment or the third embodiment.

  FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the fourth embodiment. In FIG. 12, the same parts as those in FIG. 4 are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  In FIG. 12, the information processing system 1 further includes an image processing device 30 and a manager terminal 90. The image processing apparatus 30 is, for example, a device connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) in an intranet of a company or the like to which the image forming apparatus 10 belongs. The image processing apparatus 30 may be an image forming apparatus similar to the image forming apparatus 10, or may be a computer such as a PC (Personal Computer). The processing capability of the image processing apparatus 30 is preferably higher than that of the image forming apparatus 10.

  The image processing device 30 includes an image processing unit 31. The image processing unit 31 can execute the same image processing as the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22. Further, the accuracy of processing by the image processing unit 31 may be higher than that of the image processing unit 133. The image processing unit 31 is realized by processing that one or more programs installed in the image processing apparatus 30 causes the CPU of the image processing apparatus 30 to execute. In other words, in the fourth embodiment, the image processing device 30 is added as a candidate for a request destination of image processing. In FIG. 12, the image processing apparatus 30 is represented by a single rectangle, but a plurality of image processing apparatuses 30 may be connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via a network.

  The administrator terminal 90 is an information processing apparatus such as a PC (Personal Computer) used by a system administrator (hereinafter simply referred to as “administrator”) in a company or the like to which the image forming apparatus 10 belongs. The administrator terminal 90 can communicate with the external device 20 via the network N1.

  In FIG. 12, the external device 20 further uses a candidate information storage unit 212. The candidate information storage unit 212 stores information related to devices that are candidates for image processing (hereinafter referred to as “candidate information”). The candidate information storage unit 212 can be realized using the auxiliary storage device 202 or a storage device or the like that can be connected to the external device 20 via a network.

  FIG. 13 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure of registration processing of candidate information.

  In step S201, the administrator instructs the administrator terminal 90 to register candidate information. In the instruction, candidate information on each image processing apparatus 30 which is a candidate for an image processing request destination and a URL (Uniform Resource Locator) of the external apparatus 20 are input. The administrator terminal 90 transmits a registration request for the input candidate information to the input URL (S202).

  The registration request is received by the external device 20. The external device 20 stores the candidate information specified in the registration request in the candidate information storage unit 212 (S203).

  FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the candidate information storage unit. In FIG. 14, the candidate information storage unit 212 stores candidate information for each device that is a candidate for image processing. The candidate information includes items such as device ID, tenant ID, machine number, IP address, OCR processing, and tint block.

  The “device ID” is identification information for identifying each candidate aircraft in the information processing system 1. The “tenant ID” is a tenant ID of a tenant to which the candidate belongs. The “machine number” is identification information associated with the hardware of the candidate machine, such as a manufacturing number and a serial number. The “IP address” is the candidate IP address. The “OCR process” is information indicating whether or not to execute the OCR process. The “background pattern” is information indicating whether to execute the background pattern process. In addition, items regarding image processing other than the OCR processing and the tint block may be provided. In addition, an item indicating the required time per page may be provided for each image processing. It is desirable that the value of the item is an index value of the same standard as the prediction time.

  When the functional configuration of each candidate changes, the candidate information may be updated as appropriate. Further, candidate information regarding the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 may not be registered or may be registered.

  FIG. 15 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing system according to the fourth embodiment regarding a scan application. In FIG. 15, the same steps as those in FIG. 10 have the same step numbers, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  In step S106 b, the processing path inquiry unit 132 transmits, to the processing path generation unit 21, a processing path inquiry request in which the meta information of the scan image, the processing setting, and the tenant ID are designated. As the tenant ID, a value stored in advance in the image forming apparatus 10 is designated. Also in FIG. 15, the generation of the prediction time by the image processing unit 133 and the image processing unit 22 is not performed.

  Subsequent to step S106 b, the processing path generation unit 21 acquires a list of candidate information including the tenant ID specified in the inquiry request from the candidate information storage unit 212 (S161, S162). That is, candidate information on devices belonging to the same company or the like as the transmission source of the inquiry request is acquired. Subsequently, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path based on the list of acquired candidate information (hereinafter referred to as “target candidate information”) and the processing setting specified in the inquiry request (S109c). ). For example, the processing path inquiry unit 132 extracts, from the list of target candidate information, candidate information of an apparatus that can execute the processing content indicated by the setting information of the image processing in the processing setting. For example, if the processing content is OCR processing, candidate information whose value of “OCR processing” is “possible” is extracted. If the extracted candidate information is one, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path with the device related to the candidate information as the request destination of the image processing. In this case, the value of the “IP address” of the candidate information may be included in the processing path as request destination identification information.

  Further, if there are a plurality of extracted candidate information, the candidate information may be selected based on the past selection history. Specifically, the candidate information with the oldest time selected last may be selected. By doing so, it is possible to avoid concentration of load on the device due to continuous selection of the same device in a short period of time. Moreover, when the item which shows required time is contained in candidate information, candidate information may be selected based on the said item. When the item indicating the required time is included in the candidate information, as in the first embodiment or the third embodiment, the prediction time A for the image forming apparatus 10 and the prediction time B for the external device 20 May be generated. The request destination of the image processing may be determined by comparing the predicted time A, the predicted time B, and the required time of each piece of extracted candidate information. In this case, candidate information for the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 may not be registered.

  Here, it is assumed that a processing path in which the IP address of the image processing apparatus 30 is designated as a request destination of image processing is generated. The processing path inquiry unit 132 that has received such a processing path in step S110 makes a process execution request to the request destination of the first process in the processing path (S171). Here, the execution request is transmitted to the image processing unit 31 of the image processing apparatus 30. In the execution request, a scan image, a process setting, and a process path are designated.

  The image processing unit 31 executes the requested image processing, and sends back the data generated by the image processing and the processing result indicating the success or failure of the processing to the processing path inquiring unit 132 (S172). Subsequently, the processing path inquiring unit 132c requests the distribution unit 135 corresponding to the process following “image processing” to execute the distribution in the processing path (S173). The content of step S173 may be similar to that of step S113. Thereafter, in steps S174 and S175, processing similar to that in steps S114 and S115 is performed.

  As described above, according to the fourth embodiment, the image processing is also performed on apparatuses other than the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 and connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the network. It can be done.

  Next, a fifth embodiment will be described. In the fifth embodiment, points different from the first embodiment or the fourth embodiment will be described. Therefore, the points not particularly mentioned may be the same as those in the first embodiment or the fourth embodiment.

  FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a functional configuration of the information processing system according to the fifth embodiment. In FIG. 16, the same parts as those in FIG. 4 are given the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will be omitted.

  In FIG. 16, the information processing system 1 further includes an external device 40. The external device 40 is connected to the external device 20 via a network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) or the Internet. The external device 40 is also connected to the image forming apparatus 10 via the network N1.

  The external device 40 is an information processing device operated by the same operator as the external device 20 or by a different operator. For example, the external device 20 may be a computer system that provides a cloud service.

  In FIG. 16, the external device 40 includes an information providing unit 41, an image processing unit 42, and the like. Each of these units is realized by processing that one or more programs installed in the external device 40 cause the CPU of the external device 40 to execute.

  The information providing unit 41 provides information on the external device 40. For example, the predicted time when image processing is performed by the external device 40 is provided to the external device (in the present embodiment, the external device 20). Further, a load state of the external device 40 (for example, a job accumulation amount with respect to a job queue relating to image processing) may be provided to the outside.

  The image processing unit 42 can execute image processing similar to the image processing unit 22 or image processing in which a function is added to the image processing that can be executed by the image processing unit 22.

  FIG. 17 is a sequence diagram for explaining an example of a processing procedure that the information processing system according to the fifth embodiment executes with respect to the scan application. In FIG. 17, the same steps as those in FIG. 15 or FIG.

  In accordance with step S106a, the processing path generation unit 21 designates the scan image and the process setting, and transmits a request for prediction of the required time for image processing on the scan image to the information providing unit 41 of the external device 40 (see FIG. S181). The content of the request may be, for example, the same as the request in step S109 of FIG. Subsequently, the information providing unit 41 transfers the request to the image processing unit 22 (S182). The image processing unit 42 generates an estimated time of image processing by the image processing unit 42 based on meta information of the scan image, setting information on image processing in the processing setting, and the like. Any of the methods described in the above embodiments may be used as a method for generating the predicted time. Subsequently, the image processing unit 42 returns the predicted time to the information providing unit 41 (S183). The information provision unit 41 sends the predicted time back to the processing path generation unit 21 (S184). Note that information indicating the load state of the image processing unit 42 may be returned together with the prediction time. Hereinafter, the predicted time returned from the external device 40 will be referred to as "the predicted time C".

  Steps S181 to S184 are performed for each of the plurality of external devices 20. Therefore, the predicted time C and the like are collected from each external device 40.

  Subsequently, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path (S109 d). For example, the processing path generation unit 21 determines the request destination of the image processing based on the comparison of the predicted time C from each external device 20. Further, when the image forming apparatus 10 and the external apparatus 20 are also candidates for the request destination of the image processing, the prediction time A and the prediction time B may be generated. The predicted time A and the predicted time B may be generated using any method described in the above embodiment. In this case, the processing path generation unit 21 determines the request destination of the image processing based on the comparison with the predicted time A, the predicted time B, and each predicted time C. The processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path based on the determination result. When the image forming apparatus 10 and the external device 20 are candidates for the request destination of the image processing, the number of the external device 40 may be one.

  In FIG. 17, step S185 is executed subsequent to step S110. In step S185, the processing path inquiry unit 132 requests execution of the processing to the request destination of the first processing in the processing path received in step S110. Here, the execution request is transmitted to the image processing unit 42 of the external device 40. In the execution request, a scan image, a process setting, and a process path are designated.

  The image processing unit 42 executes the requested image processing, and returns the data generated by the image processing and the processing result indicating the success or failure of the processing to the processing path inquiring unit 132 (S186). Subsequently, step S173 and the subsequent steps described in FIG. 15 are executed.

  As described above, according to the fifth embodiment, the external device 40 different from the external device 20 can execute image processing. Therefore, for example, the image forming apparatus 10 can execute the processing flow using a cloud service with relatively high responsiveness among a plurality of cloud services.

  Next, a sixth embodiment will be described. In the sixth embodiment, points different from the above embodiments will be described. Therefore, points that are not particularly mentioned may be the same as the above embodiments.

  FIG. 18 is a diagram illustrating a functional configuration example of the information processing system according to the sixth embodiment. In FIG. 18, the same parts as those in FIG. 9, FIG. 12, or FIG.

  In FIG. 18, the external device 20 further uses a selection condition storage unit 213. The selection condition storage unit 213 stores in advance information (hereinafter referred to as “selection condition”) indicating conditions relating to selection of a request destination for image processing when a processing path is generated. The registration of the selection condition may be performed by, for example, a system administrator in a company or the like to which the image forming apparatus 10 belongs, an operator of the external apparatus 20, or the like.

  FIG. 19 is a sequence diagram for illustrating an example of a processing procedure executed by the information processing system according to the sixth embodiment regarding a scan application. In FIG. 17, the same steps as those in FIG. 5 or FIG.

  In step S <b> 106 c, the processing route inquiry unit 132 specifies the meta information of the scanned image, the processing setting, the prediction time A, and the tenant ID, and transmits a processing route inquiry request to the processing route generation unit 21 of the external device 20. Do.

  In steps S191 and S192, the processing path generation unit 21 acquires, from the selection condition storage unit 213, the selection condition associated with the tenant ID specified in the inquiry request.

  FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a configuration example of the selection condition storage unit. In FIG. 20, the selection condition storage unit 213 stores selection conditions in association with the selection condition ID and the tenant ID. “Selection condition ID” is identification information for each selection condition. The “tenant ID” is a tenant ID of the tenant of the registration source of the selection condition. As shown in FIG. 20, the selection condition is a criterion for selecting the request destination of the image processing as the condition for the processing content of the image processing such as the meta information of the scan image and the processing setting, and the load condition of each candidate. Indicates The selection condition in which the value of “tenant ID” is empty is a selection condition registered by the operator of the external device 20.

  In FIG. 19, although omitted for convenience, acquisition of processing history from the processing history storage unit 211 (FIG. 11) (S141, S142 of S3), candidate information from the candidate information storage unit 212 (FIG. 14) Acquisition (S161, S162 in FIG. 15), prediction time C from the external device 40 (S181 to S184 in FIG. 17), and the like may be performed.

  Subsequently, the processing path generation unit 21 generates a processing path (S109e). At this time, the processing path generation unit 21 determines a request destination of image processing based on meta information, processing setting, prediction time A, prediction time B, and prediction time C, candidate information, processing history, selection conditions, and the like. Do. For example, the priority of each information for determination may be changed as appropriate. For example, when the selection condition is prioritized, the meta information and the process setting may be applied to the selection condition, and when a plurality of candidates are extracted, narrowing down of the candidates may be performed using other information. Alternatively, for example, when a plurality of candidates are extracted based on the meta information, the process setting, and the candidate information, the candidates may be narrowed down based on the selection condition. Also when one candidate is not identified by narrowing down the candidates, one candidate may be selected based on the comparison of prediction times.

  Thereafter, the processing procedure described above is performed.

  As described above, according to the sixth embodiment, the intention of the user can be determined with regard to the determination of the candidate of the request destination of the image processing according to the preset selection condition.

  In each of the above-described embodiments, the example in which the request destination of the image processing is determined has been described. However, the request destination may be determined for processing other than the image processing.

  The above embodiments may be applied to the case where a device other than the image forming apparatus 10 cooperates with the external device 20.

  In each of the above embodiments, the image forming apparatus 10 is an example of a device. The external device 20 is an example of an information processing device. The image processing unit 133 is an example of a first generation unit. The processing path inquiry unit 132 is an example of a first transmission / reception unit and a request unit. The image processing unit 22 is an example of a second generation unit. The processing path generation unit 21 is an example of a determination unit, a transmission unit, a generation unit in claim 2, and a second transmission / reception unit.

  As mentioned above, although the Example of this invention was explained in full detail, this invention is not limited to such specific embodiment, In the range of the summary of this invention described in the claim, various deformation | transformation・ Change is possible.

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Information processing system 10 Image forming apparatus 11 Controller 12 Scanner 13 Printer 14 Modem 15 Operation panel 16 Network interface 17 SD card slot 18 SD card 20 External device 21 Processing path generation unit 22 Image processing unit 30 Image processing unit 31 Image processing unit 40 External device 41 Information providing unit 42 Image processing unit 90 Administrator terminal 111 CPU
112 RAM
113 ROM
114 HDD
115 NVRAM
121 Scan Application 131 Reading Control Unit 132 Processing Path Query Unit 133 Image Processing Unit 134 External Cooperation Unit 135 Distribution Unit 141 Processing Setting Storage Unit 200 Drive Device 201 Recording Medium 202 Auxiliary Storage Device 203 Memory Device 204 CPU
205 Interface device 211 Processing history storage unit 212 Candidate information storage unit 213 Selection condition storage unit B bus

JP, 2013-004057, A

Claims (8)

An information processing system including an apparatus and an information processing apparatus connected to the apparatus via a network,
The device is
When receiving a request for processing, a first generation unit that generates a first index value having a correlation with a required time when the device executes the requested processing based on information indicating the content of the processing When,
The first index value generated by the first generation unit and the information indicating the content of the process are transmitted to the information processing apparatus, and the transmitted information indicating the first index value and the content of the process A first transmission / reception unit that receives, from the information processing apparatus, identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined by the information processing apparatus as request destinations to execute the processing using
An accepting unit that accepts selection of a request destination from a plurality of request destinations related to the plurality of identification information received by the first transmitting / receiving unit;
A request unit that requests execution of the process to the request destination the selection unit receives the selection ;
Have
The information processing apparatus is
A second generation unit that generates a second index value having a correlation with a required time when the information processing apparatus executes the process based on information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device;
A determination unit that compares the first index value transmitted from the device with the second index value generated by the second generation unit and determines a plurality of request destinations that execute the processing; ,
A transmission unit that transmits the identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined by the determination unit to the device;
An information processing system characterized by having. An information processing system including an apparatus and an information processing apparatus connected to the apparatus via a network,
The device is
When a request for processing is received, information indicating the content of the requested processing is transmitted to the information processing device, and the information processing device executes the processing using the transmitted information indicating the content of the processing A first transmission / reception unit that receives, from the information processing apparatus, identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined as the first one;
An accepting unit that accepts selection of a request destination from a plurality of request destinations related to the plurality of identification information received by the first transmitting / receiving unit;
A request unit that requests execution of the process to the request destination the selection unit receives the selection ;
Have
The information processing apparatus is
Based on information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device, the information processing apparatus executes the first index value correlated with the required time when the device executes the process, and the process. A generation unit that generates a second index value correlated with the required time of the case;
A determination unit that compares the first index value and the second index value respectively generated by the generation unit to determine a plurality of request destinations that execute the processing;
A transmission unit that transmits the identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined by the determination unit to the device;
An information processing system characterized by having. The generation unit generates the first index value based on a history of actual values of the required time of the process related to the information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the apparatus, Generating an index value of 2 based on a history of actual values of the required time in the information processing apparatus of the process;
The information processing system according to claim 2. The determination unit stores a time required for the process related to the information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device, which is stored for the other device connected to the device via a network. Comparing the third index value having a correlation with the first index value and the second index value to determine the request destination of the processing;
The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The information processing apparatus is
Information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device is transmitted to another information processing apparatus connected to the information processing apparatus via a network, and correlated with the time required for the process by the other information processing apparatus. A second transmission / reception unit that receives a fourth index value having the
The determination unit compares the first index value, the second index value, and the fourth index value to determine a request destination of the process;
The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 3. The determination unit determines a request destination of the process based on a condition for selecting the request destination that is set in advance for the content of the process.
The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein the information processing system is an information processing system. An information processing method executed by an information processing system including a device and an information processing device connected to the device via a network,
The device
When a request for processing is received, a first generation procedure for generating a first index value having a correlation with a required time when the device executes the requested processing based on information indicating the content of the processing When,
The first index value generated in the first generation procedure and the information indicating the content of the process are transmitted to the information processing apparatus, and the transmitted first index value and the information indicating the content of the process A first transmission / reception procedure for receiving, from the information processing device, identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined as request destinations for the information processing device to execute the processing using
An acceptance procedure for accepting selection of a request destination from a plurality of request destinations related to the plurality of identification information received in the first transmission / reception procedure;
A request procedure for requesting execution of the process from the request destination whose selection has been received in the reception procedure ;
Run
The information processing apparatus
A second generation procedure for generating a second index value having a correlation with a required time when the information processing apparatus executes the process based on information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device;
A determination procedure for comparing a first index value transmitted from the device and a second index value generated in the second generation procedure to determine a plurality of request destinations that execute the processing; ,
A transmission procedure for transmitting the identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined in the determination procedure to the device;
The information processing method characterized by performing. An information processing method executed by an information processing system including a device and an information processing device connected to the device via a network,
The device
When a request for processing is received, information indicating the content of the requested processing is transmitted to the information processing device, and the information processing device executes the processing using the transmitted information indicating the content of the processing A first transmission / reception procedure for receiving, from the information processing apparatus, identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined as the first one;
An acceptance procedure for accepting selection of a request destination from a plurality of request destinations related to the plurality of identification information received in the first transmission / reception procedure;
A request procedure for requesting execution of the process from the request destination whose selection has been received in the reception procedure ;
Run
The information processing apparatus
Based on information indicating the content of the process transmitted from the device, the information processing apparatus executes the first index value correlated with the required time when the device executes the process, and the process. Generating a second index value correlated with the required time of the case, and
A determination procedure for comparing the first index value and the second index value respectively generated in the generation procedure to determine a plurality of request destinations that execute the processing;
A transmission procedure for transmitting the identification information indicating each of a plurality of request destinations determined in the determination procedure to the device;
An information processing method characterized in that:

Images