JPH11301068A - Data processing system, output mode processing method of data processor, output mode processing method for output processor, and recording medium storing program readable by computer - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To reduce the setting operation load of a complicated output mode and to rapidly and accurately substitute external data obtained under an outer condition as same as possible by either one of other output processor groups connected on a network to output the same. SOLUTION: An internet data printing apparatus 320 becoming a utilizable substitute output processor candidate designated or automatically searched when an internet data printer 310 set in order to output external data obtained from an internet can not be utilized is designated and the output mode set to the internet data printing apparatus 310 incapable of being utilized with respect to the designated substitute output processor candidate is transmitted to the internet data printing apparatus 320 to be automatically set.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a data processing device in which a plurality of output processing devices are connected to a data processing device via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication network. The present invention relates to an information processing system, an output mode processing method of a data processing device, an output mode processing method of an output processing device, and a storage medium storing a computer-readable program.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, in a network environment in which a plurality of different devices and computers are connected to a network, there is provided an Internet information printing function for acquiring and printing information on the Internet with a predetermined protocol via a communication line using browser software. The setting of the operation mode for the held printing apparatus has been performed for each device.

[0003] Further, when an attempt is made to use a specific device having an Internet information printing function in an environment where a plurality of devices can be used via a network, and the device is unavailable, It is possible to substitute a device having the function of another device.

[0004] At this time, in order to obtain the same effect in a device to be used as a substitute, it is necessary for the substitute device to be set to the same operation mode as the operation mode set in the device to be used first. Yes, as a means,
The problem has been solved by newly inputting the setting of the operation mode regarding the function of the substitute device by using the input device or the like by the user.

[0005]

However, when the Internet information printing function of a specific device on the network cannot be used, the same operation mode as that initially set for the device having the Internet information printing function is used. Alternatively, it is necessary to inherit the alternative setting as the setting of the operation mode of the alternative device,
As means therefor, there is a problem that the amount of work is increased, an error or the like occurs due to human intervention for setting the alternative mode.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made to solve the above problems, and an object of the present invention is to provide a method in which an output processing device set to output external information obtained from the Internet cannot be used. The other specified output processing device that is a candidate for an available alternative output processing device that has been specified or has been automatically searched, and is set as an output processing device that cannot be used for the specified alternative output processing device candidate By automatically setting the output mode by sending it to another output processing device, the output processing device specified to output external information (characters, graphics, images, etc.) acquired from the Internet becomes unavailable. Designate an output mode that is equivalent to the output mode that was set so that the output format that the user intended for the unavailable output processing device even after transition Alternatively, automatic setting can be performed for the automatically searched alternative output processing device, reducing the burden of setting operation of complicated output mode, and connecting external information acquired in the same output mode as much as possible to the network. Information processing system, output mode processing method of data processing apparatus, and output mode processing of output processing apparatus capable of freely constructing an alternative output processing environment in which any of the other output processing apparatus groups can quickly and accurately perform alternative output It is an object of the present invention to provide a method and a storage medium storing a computer readable program.

[0007]

According to a first aspect of the present invention, a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device is connected to a predetermined communication line network. An information processing system connectable to the Internet via the Internet, wherein the data processing device is input by the mode input means for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet, and input by the mode input means. First mode setting means for setting the output mode for any one of the output processing devices; and outputting the output when the output processing device for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means cannot be used. Specifying means for specifying an alternative output processing device capable of executing the mode.

In a second aspect according to the present invention, each output processing device includes a holding unit for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting unit, and an alternative output processing device for the specifying unit. A transmission unit for transmitting the output mode stored in the storage unit to the specified alternative output processing device when the output mode is specified; and setting the output mode received from one of the output processing devices. And second mode setting means for performing the setting.

According to a third aspect of the present invention, a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing devices are connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. A possible information processing system, comprising: a management unit that acquires and stores and manages processing capability information of each of the output processing devices; and a mode input unit that inputs an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet. First mode setting means for setting the output mode input by the mode input means to any one of the output processing devices, and an output processing device having the output mode set by the first mode setting means Determining means for determining whether or not the output processing device is available, and that the output processing device in which the output mode is set by the determining means is not in a usable state. If I was boss, and has a search means for said management means to search for viable alternative output processor the output mode by referring to the processing capability information of each output processing device storing management.

In a fourth aspect according to the present invention, each of the output processing devices includes a holding unit for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting unit; Transmitting means for transmitting the output mode set by the mode setting means to the output processing device, and second mode setting means for setting the output mode received from any of the output processing devices It is.

In a fifth aspect according to the present invention, the alternative output processing device includes: an obtaining unit that obtains the output mode held in any one of the output processing devices; and an output unit that obtains the output mode obtained by the obtaining unit. And third mode setting means for setting a mode.

A sixth invention according to the present invention is directed to an output mode of a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A processing method, comprising: a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet, and setting the output mode input in the mode input step to any output processing device. A first mode setting step to perform, and a designation step of designating an alternative output processing apparatus capable of executing the output mode when the output processing apparatus for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting step cannot be used. It has.

According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing apparatus connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing apparatus communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing apparatus. An output mode processing method of a possible output processing device, wherein when an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode from the data processing device is specified,
Having a transmission step of transmitting the held output mode to a designated alternative output processing apparatus, and a second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from any other output processing apparatus It is.

An eighth invention according to the present invention is directed to an output mode of a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A processing method for acquiring and storing and managing the processing capability information of each of the output processing devices; a mode inputting step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; A first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the input step to any one of the output processing apparatuses, and an output processing apparatus in which the output mode is set by the first mode setting step can be used A step of determining whether or not the output processing apparatus is in an available state, and determining that the output processing apparatus in which the output mode is set is not in a usable state by the determining step. And it has a search step of searching the reference viable alternative output processor the output mode the processing capability information of each output processing devices that are stored and managed by the management step.

According to a ninth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device. An output mode processing method for a possible output processing apparatus, comprising: a transmission step of transmitting the output mode set to an alternative output processing apparatus searched by the data processing apparatus; And a second mode setting step of setting an output mode for receiving from the second mode.

According to a tenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device. An output mode processing method for a possible output processing device, comprising: an obtaining step of obtaining the output mode held in any one of the output processing apparatuses; and a third setting the output mode obtained by the obtaining step. Mode setting step.

An eleventh invention according to the present invention controls a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, wherein a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information obtained by connecting to the Internet, and the output mode input in the mode input step A first mode setting step for setting the output processing device;
Specifying the alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when the output processing device in which the output mode is set cannot be used in the mode setting step. It is stored.

According to a twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program that controls a possible output processing device, wherein the data processing device retains the stored output when an alternative output processing device capable of executing an output mode is designated by the data processing device. Computer-readable program having a transmission step of transmitting an output mode to a designated alternative output processing apparatus and a second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from any other output processing apparatus Is stored in a storage medium.

A thirteenth invention according to the present invention controls a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, wherein a management step of acquiring and managing the processing capability information of each of the output processing devices and an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet are input. A mode inputting step, a first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the mode inputting step to any output processing device, and the output mode is set by the first mode setting step. A determining step of determining whether or not the output processing device that has been used is available, and an output in which the output mode is set by the determining step. A search step of searching for an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode with reference to the processing capability information of each output processing device stored and managed by the management process when it is determined that the processing device is not in a usable state; And a computer-readable program having the above is stored in a storage medium.

According to a fourteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device. A transmission medium for storing a computer-readable program for controlling a possible output processing device, wherein the transmission mode transmits the output mode set to an alternative output processing device searched by the data processing device. A computer readable program having a step and a second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from any output processing device is stored in a storage medium.

According to a fifteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a data processing apparatus connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing apparatus capable of communicating via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing apparatus. A storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a possible output processing device, wherein the obtaining step obtains the output mode held by any of the output processing devices; and And a third mode setting step of setting the output mode. A computer readable program is stored in a storage medium.

[0022]

DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image processing system to which the present invention can be applied.
Network and Internet INET1-INE
This corresponds to a case where a data processing device, a local printer, a network printer, a multifunction device, and the like are configured to be communicable via T4.

In FIG. 1, reference numerals 1 and 2 denote host computers, which function as a device for transmitting a service request to another device. A local printer 3 is managed by a host computer 2 connected to a network. Reference numeral 4 denotes a network printer, which has its own network address, acquires print information via the network 6, or returns a print status to a print request source. Reference numeral 5 denotes a multifunction device, which includes, for example, a scanner and a printer, is connected via a network 6, and has host computers 1 and 2.
Print function processing, copy function processing, facsimile function processing, etc., based on a data processing request from the user.

The resources in the image processing system, that is, the processing functions and the processing capabilities of the respective devices are not always the same. Also, host computers 1, 2, and
The network printer 5 and the multifunction device 4 are each connected to the network 6, and the host computers 1 and 2 can use the local printer 3, the network printer 4, and the multifunction device 5, respectively.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram for explaining the peripheral configuration of the multifunction device shown in FIG.

Referring to FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a touch panel, which is disposed so as to overlap the display unit 207. When the user directly touches the surface of the touch panel 201, information on the touched coordinates is displayed on the interface unit 2 in the control unit 217.
02.

In the interface unit 202, the coordinate information transferred from the touch panel 201 is transmitted to the CPU 2.
Send to 05. In the CPU 205, the ROM 2
It is determined which key on the touch panel 201 has been pressed based on the coordinate information transferred based on the control program stored in the control program 03. The ROM 203 stores data of setting screens for various operation modes, control programs, and the like.

Reference numeral 204 denotes a RAM, which functions as a work memory for storing data, programs, and the like of a current setting state.

Further, the CPU 205 configures a tab key for each purpose and a setting screen for each purpose according to the state of the apparatus and the input to the touch panel 201 by the user, and transfers them to the display control unit 206.

Reference numeral 207 denotes a display unit, which is constituted by a full dot LCD, and to which display data is transferred from the display control unit 206 for visual display.

Reference numeral 209 denotes an external storage device of a floppy disk, which stores programs and data, and which is referred to or loaded as necessary at the time of executing data processing into the RAM 204 as needed. 213
Is a storage medium such as a floppy disk, which is mounted on the FD drive 209, and reads or writes data via the disk control unit 208.

Reference numeral 210 denotes an external storage device provided with a hard disk storage medium, from which a system or a program for processing is loaded on the RAM 204 and activated, and the activated system or program is stored in the external storage device 210 as necessary. Stores stored data and information in RAM
Loaded on 204.

In this embodiment, the basic system operates by the CPU 205 executing a basic I / O program, an OS, and a network connection device management program.

The basic I / O program is stored in the ROM 20
3 and the OS is written in the external storage device 210. And when this system starts,
An OPL (Initial Program Loading) function in the basic I / O program allows
S is read into the RAM 204, and the operation of the OS is started.

FIG. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a print processing system according to the first embodiment of the present invention, in which a setting input section 300 and Internet information printing apparatuses 310 and 320 are provided.
And so on.

In the setting input section 300, reference numeral 301 denotes a setting input means for inputting a desired operation mode for utilizing a scanner function in the system. Reference numeral 303 denotes an alternative device specifying unit that specifies an alternative device when the scanner to be set is unavailable. Reference numeral 302 denotes input control means.
The operation mode of the Internet information printing apparatus 310 is set according to the contents of the operation mode input by the setting input unit 301, and the alternative device specified by the alternative device specifying unit 303 is specified.

The Internet information printing device 310
Is a device that actually requests processing, and has a capability of providing an Internet information printing function in this device.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 310, reference numeral 311 denotes a setting information holding unit which holds the operation mode setting for the Internet information printing apparatus 310 input from the setting input unit 301 as setting information 311A.

Reference numeral 312 denotes a setting information management means.
Management such as reading and writing for 11A is performed. 3
An operation control unit 13 controls the operation of the Internet information printing apparatus 310 based on the setting information 311A.

Reference numeral 314 denotes a setting information transmitting unit. When the operation control unit 313 determines that the processing requested by the Internet information printing apparatus 310 cannot be performed, the setting information managing unit 312 outputs the setting information. 311
A, and obtains setting information 3 for an alternative device to be used when the Internet information printing apparatus 310 cannot be used.
11A is transmitted.

On the other hand, the Internet information printing device 320
Is a device used when the Internet information printing device 310 cannot be used. The device has a capability of providing an Internet information printing function.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 320, a setting information holding unit 321 holds setting information 321A that is the same as or replaces the setting information 311A for the Internet information printing apparatus 310.

Reference numeral 322 denotes setting information management means, and the setting information 3
Management such as reading and writing to 21A is performed. 3
An operation control unit 23 controls the operation of the Internet information printing apparatus 320 based on the setting information 321A.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

A plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above, and the data processing device can connect to the Internet via a predetermined communication network. A processing system, the data processing device comprising: a mode input unit (setting input unit 301) for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; and the output input by the mode input unit. A first mode setting means (input control means 302) for setting a mode for any of the output processing apparatuses, and a case where the output processing apparatus for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means cannot be used. And a designation unit (substitution device designation unit 303) for designating an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode. If the mode is not available an output processing unit that is set, it can be designated as an alternate output processing apparatus should output the external information that the user is obtained an output processing unit intended in a plurality of output processor.

Each of the output processing means includes a holding means (setting information holding units 311 and 321) for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting means, and an alternative output processing device by the designation means. Is specified, a transmitting means (setting information transmitting means 314) for transmitting the output mode held in the holding means to the designated alternative output processing apparatus; Since there are second mode setting means (setting information management means 312 and 322) for setting the output mode to be received, when an output processing apparatus for which an output mode has already been set cannot be used, a plurality of output processing apparatuses are set. Just specify the output processing device that the user intends within, and output the external information to the alternative output processing device specified by the user. The output mode equivalent output mode on an output processing devices that are constant can be automatically set.

FIG. 4 is a flow chart showing an example of a first data processing procedure in the print processing system according to the present invention. The operation mode is set for the Internet information printing function in the system, and the printing is performed when an alternative device is used. Corresponds to the processing procedure. (1) to (8) indicate each step.

First, at the start of the registration process, in step (1), the setting input means 301 inputs an operation mode when using the Internet information printing function. Next, in step (2), the operation mode is set by holding the input operation mode as setting information 311A in the setting information holding unit 311.

Next, in step (3), it is determined whether the Internet information printing function of the set device is available. If it is determined that it is available, the process proceeds to step (8) and the set operation is performed. Mode setting information 311A
, The requested operation process is performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the Internet information printing function of the set device is not available, the process proceeds to step (4), where the substitute device is designated by the substitute device designation means 303. If it is determined that the alternative device has not been specified, there is no device that performs the requested process, and the process ends as abnormal.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (4) that the substitute device has been designated by the substitute device designation means 303, the set operation mode is set for the substitute device designated in step (5). Is transmitted. Next, in step (6), the setting information 321A inheriting the setting information 311A transmitted in step (5) is set in the substitute device.

Then, in step (7), the setting information 32
Based on 1A, the requested operation processing is performed, and the processing ends.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

An output mode processing method of a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line configured as described above and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. Or can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, and
A storage medium storing a computer readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the storage medium stores an output for external information obtained by connecting to the Internet. A mode input step of inputting a mode (step (1) in FIG. 4), and a first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the mode input step to any output processing device (FIG. 4) (2)) and a designation step of designating an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when the output processing device for which the output mode has been set in the first mode setting process is unavailable. Step (3) of Step 4), when the output processing device in which the output mode is already set cannot be used,
An output processing device intended by a user among a plurality of output processing devices can be designated as an alternative output processing device to output acquired external information.

Also, a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output mode of the output processing device communicable with another output processing device. Processing method,
Alternatively, a computer that controls a data processing device that can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device that can communicate via a predetermined communication medium, and an output processing device that can communicate with another output processing device can be read. A storage medium storing a suitable program, and when an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode is designated by the data processing device, the held output mode is stored in the designated alternative output processing device. And a second mode setting step (step (6) in FIG. 4) for setting an output mode to receive from any other output processing device. Therefore, if the output processing device for which the output mode is already set cannot be used, and the user specifies the intended output processing device among the plurality of output processing devices, Only performing cormorants operation, it is possible to automatically set the output mode equivalent output mode on an output processing unit that has been set as the output destination of the external information to the user-specified alternate output processor.

FIGS. 5 to 8 show examples of operation mode setting input screens in the print processing system according to the present invention, which are displayed on the displays of the host computers 1 and 2 shown in FIG. . Hereinafter, the configuration and operation will be described.

Referring to FIG. 5, a screen 500 for setting an Internet information print setting is a screen for setting a request for receiving an external document using the Internet and requesting the printer to print the acquired document. Is displayed. When the mouse button (not shown) is moved and clicked on the bookmark button 501, a bookmark sub-dialog 510 shown in FIG. 6 is displayed. Reference numeral 502 denotes a URL input area, which is capable of inputting a desired URA.

In the bookmark sub-dialog 510, in the bookmark display area 511, a list of the contents (only titles) of the bookmark setting information held in the own apparatus is displayed. The list displayed in the puck mark display area 511 can be selectively displayed by pressing any one of the rows. Note that only one line can be in the selected display state. By pressing the currently selected line again or pressing a line that is not currently selected, the selected display state is displayed normally. You can return to the state.

If the bookmark does not fit in the bookmark display area 511, the list is moved downward or upward by one line by pressing the bookmark scroll buttons 512 and 513, respectively. Further, when a bookmark is in the bookmark display area 511, it can be pressed but does not function.

Here, when the OK button 514 is pressed, the bookmark sub-dialog 510 is closed, and the URL corresponding to the selected item is input to the URL input area 502. In this case, the content already input in the URL input area 502 is deleted, and if there is no item in the selected state, no input is made.

When the cancel button 515 is pressed,
The bookmark sub-dialog 510 is closed.
Once the bookmark sub-dialog 510 is closed, the selected state is cleared. Local button 516
A, Task List button 516B allows other bookmark settings to be made.

When the PUT INTO HD check button 503 shown in FIG. 5 is pressed while no check is displayed, the HD Setting sub-dialog 5 shown in FIG.
20 is displayed. If the user presses the button while the check is displayed, the check is deleted. On the other hand, a PRINT SETTING button 504 is displayed on the screen shown in FIG.
By pressing, a PRINT SETTING sub-dialog 530 shown in FIG. 8 is displayed.

The PRINT SETTING sub-dialog 530 shown in FIG. 8 is equipped with the following components in principle.

A PRINT SETTING setting status display icon 54 displaying the current setting status of the printer in a picture
Reference numeral 8 denotes a picture of the current setting state of the printer. No check is displayed during initialization (including reset).

The number-of-copies display area 534 displays the number of copies to be printed. By pressing the count up button 535,
The number of copies increases every "1", and the countdown button 536
Pressing decreases the number of copies by one. The value of any button continuously increases or decreases as the button is held down. At the time of initialization (including at the time of reset), “1” is displayed.

PAPER SELECT display area 537
Indicates the size and orientation of the paper used for printing. By pressing a PAPER SELECT selection button 538, selectable contents are displayed in a pull-down display, and the size and orientation of the paper to be used are selected from the pull-down display.

The zoom ratio is displayed in the ZOOM display area 539. When the count-up button 540 is pressed, the zoom ratio increases by 1% and the count-down button 5
When 41 is pressed, the enlargement / reduction ratio decreases by 1%. Each button continuously increases or decreases when the button is kept pressed.

The value that can be input is from 25% to 400%. Further, at the time of initialization (including at the time of reset), “100” is displayed in the ZOOM display area 539.

When the check button is pressed when no check is displayed on the Duplex check button 542, the check is displayed. When the check is displayed when the check is displayed, the check is deleted. No check is displayed at initialization (including at reset).

The sorter display area 543 displays the sorter to be used. SORTER select button 5
By pressing the button 44, the selection contents are displayed in a pull-down display, and the sorter to be used is selected from the pull-down display.

In the RESOLUTION display area 545, the resolution used for printing is displayed. A selectable resolution is numerically displayed in the RESOLUTION display area 545 by the count-up button 546 and the count-down button 547.

Here, pressing the OK button 532 saves the current print settings, and pressing the cancel button 533 discards the settings. In any case, when the button is pressed, the Print Setting sub-dialog 530 is displayed.
Is closed.

Note that the Print Setting sub-dialog 530 includes a MARGIN button, a SHIFT
Button, OVERLAY button, Nonl button, Im
There are other setting buttons 549 related to the printer, such as an age Creation button, which enable detailed settings.

A Footer / Header check button 531 enables setting of HEADER / FOOTER. Here, when the check is not displayed on the Footer / Header check button 531 and the check button is pressed, the check is displayed, and when the check is displayed, the check is deleted.

The above sub-dialogs 510, 520, 5
30 corresponding OK buttons 514, 521,
After the buttons 532, Cancel 515, 522, 533 are pressed and closed, the screen transitions to the screen 500 for performing the original Internet information print setting in a state in which the settings in the respective sub-dialogs are reflected.

As described above, by automatically transmitting the operation mode setting information to the substitute device, even when a certain scanner function on the network cannot be used, the operation mode of the operation mode is automatically transmitted to the scanner function in the same network. As a result, the substitute device can be used quickly and accurately, and the same operation mode setting can be maintained in the substitute device.

Further, in the case of the present embodiment, the alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program is coded based on the flowchart shown in FIG. 4, and the program is coded as the storage medium 213. FIG. 9 shows the configuration (memory map) of the recorded contents.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the storage medium 213 shown in FIG.

In the figure, a storage area B00 contains volume information B01 and Internet information print setting information B0.
2. This corresponds to the case where the file includes an Internet information print setting program execution file B03 and an alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program related data file B04.

The alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program and related data stored in the storage medium 213 can be loaded into the computer system C00 through the FD drive 209 as shown in FIG. When the storage medium 213 is set in the FD drive 209, as shown in FIG. 11, the alternative Internet information printing apparatus is controlled based on the control of the OS (area A02) and the basic I / O program (area A01) in the main memory area A00. The setting program and related data are read from the storage medium 213, loaded into the RAM 204, and become operable.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the RAM 204 shown in FIG. 2, and particularly shows a state in which the alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program is loaded into the area A03 of the RAM 204 and becomes executable.

An area A01 is loaded with a basic I / O program, an area A02 is loaded with an OS, and an area A0 is loaded.
3, the alternative Internet information printing device setting program is loaded as described above, the related data is loaded into the area A04, and the area A05 corresponds to the state where the work area is allocated and arranged.

In this embodiment, the alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program and related data are directly loaded from the storage medium 213 to the RAM 204 and executed. The device setting program and the management data are temporarily stored (installed) on the hard disk in the HD drive 210, and when the alternative Internet information printing device setting program is operated, the hard disk of the hard disk drive 210 is stored in the RAM2.
03 may be configured to be loaded.

In addition to the storage medium 213 for storing the alternative Internet information printing apparatus setting program,
It may be a ROM, an IC memory card, or the like. further,
Copy this alternative Internet information printing device setting program to R
The configuration may be such that it is stored in the OM 203 and mapped in a memory space so as to form a part of the memory map, and the CPU 205 may directly execute the configuration.

[Second Embodiment] In the first embodiment,
If a certain Internet information printing function on the network cannot be used, the setting information is inherited by specifying the substitute device, and the processing by the substitute device is performed. By managing all the abilities, even when there is no designation of a substitute device, a device that can be a substitute device may be automatically searched, a process request may be made, and the device may be configured to function as a substitute device.
Hereinafter, the embodiment will be described.

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating the configuration of a print processing system according to the second embodiment of the present invention. The setting input unit 600 and the Internet information printing device 610,
620, alternative device search unit 630, device capability management unit 640
Corresponding to the case of

In the setting input section 600, reference numeral 601 denotes a setting input means for inputting a desired operation mode for utilizing the Internet information printing function in the system.
Also, the substitute device specifying unit 603 specifies a substitute device when the Internet information printing device to be set is unavailable.

Reference numeral 602 denotes an input control means.
01, the operation mode of the Internet information printing apparatus is set in accordance with the contents of the operation mode input, and the substitute device designated by the substitute device designation means 603 is designated.

The Internet information printing device 610 is a device that actually requests processing, and has the capability of providing an Internet information printing function in this device.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 610, the setting of the operation mode for the Internet information printing apparatus 610 input from the setting input means 601 is held in the setting information section 611 as the setting information 611A.

Reference numeral 612 denotes a setting information management means.
Management such as reading and writing for 11A is performed. 6
An operation control unit 13 controls the operation of the Internet information printing apparatus 610 based on the setting information 611A.

Reference numeral 614 denotes a setting information transmitting unit. When the operation control unit 613 determines that the processing requested by the Internet information printing apparatus 610 cannot be performed, the setting information managing unit 612 outputs the setting information. 611
A and obtains the setting information 6 for an alternative device to be used when the Internet information printing device 610 cannot be used.
11A is transmitted.

The Internet information printing device 620 is a device used when the Internet information printing device 610 cannot be used, and has a capability of providing an Internet information printing function in the device.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 620, reference numeral 621 denotes a setting information holding unit which holds setting information 621A which is the same as or replaces the setting information 611A for the Internet information printing apparatus 610.

Reference numeral 622 denotes a setting information management means.
Management such as reading and writing to 21A is performed. 6
An operation control unit 23 controls the operation of the Internet information printing device 620 based on the setting information 621A.

In the device capability management unit 640, reference numeral 642 denotes a device capability information unit. The capability of all devices in the system is stored in the device capability information unit 642A for each device.
And the device capability management means 641
We manage information.

In the alternative device search unit 630, reference numeral 631 denotes an alternative device search unit. When there is no designation of an alternative device by the alternative device designating unit 603, by referring to the device capability information 642A in the present system, the alternative device is searched. Search for possible devices.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

A plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above, and the data processing device is capable of connecting to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. A processing system, comprising: a management unit (device capability management unit 640) for acquiring and storing and managing the processing capability information of each output processing device; and a mode for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet. Input means (setting input means 601); and first mode setting means (input control means 602, setting information management means 61) for setting the output mode input by the mode input means to any output processing device.
2) a determining means (operation control means 613) for determining whether or not the output processing device in which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means can be used; and the output mode is determined by the determining means. An alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode with reference to the processing capability information of each output processing device stored and managed by the management means when it is determined that the set output processing device is not in a usable state; And a search unit (alternate device search unit 630) for searching for. If it is determined that an output processing device for which an output mode has already been set cannot be used, a user has been set in a plurality of output processing devices. An output processing apparatus capable of executing the output mode can be automatically searched and designated as an alternative output processing apparatus to output external information, and an alternative output processing apparatus by a user can be designated. The designation burden can be greatly reduced.

Further, each output processing device is provided with a holding means for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting means (in the example of FIG.
621) and transmission means (setting information transmission means 614) for transmitting the output mode set by the first mode setting means to the alternative output processing device searched by the search means. And a second mode setting means for setting the output mode received from the output processing device of the first embodiment. Therefore, when the output processing device for which the output mode is already set cannot be used, the alternative output processing device automatically searched for , An output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the output destination of the external information can be automatically transmitted and set.

FIG. 13 is a flow chart showing an example of a second data processing procedure in the print processing system according to the present invention. The operation mode is set for the Internet information printing function in the system, and the printing is performed when an alternative device is used. Corresponds to the processing procedure. Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

When the registration process is started, step (1)
In the setting input section 601, an operation mode for using the Internet information printing function is input. Next, in step (2), the operation mode is set by holding the input operation mode as setting information 611A.

Next, in step (3), it is determined whether the Internet information printing function of the set device is available. If it is determined that it is available, step (8) is performed.
Then, the requested operation processing is performed based on the set operation mode setting information 611A, and the processing ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the scanner function of the device set cannot be used, the process proceeds to step (4), where the substitute device is designated as the substitute device designation means 60.
3. If it is determined that the substitute device has been specified, and if it is determined that the substitute device has not been specified, the process proceeds to step (9).
Based on the control by the operation control unit 613, a search command for a substitute device is output to the substitute device search unit 630, and the substitute device search unit 631 searches for a device capable of acting for a processing request on a device in the system. .

Next, in step (10), it is determined whether or not there is a corresponding substitute device based on the search result in step (9). If there is no corresponding substitute device, a request is made. Since there is no device that performs the process, the process ends as an error.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (10) that there is a substitute device, the substitute device is designated by the substitute device designation means 603 for the retrieved substitute device and in step (4). If it is determined that there is, the process proceeds to step (5), and the setting information 611A of the set operation mode is transmitted to the designated substitute device. In step (6), the setting information 621A inheriting the setting information 611A transmitted in step (5) is set in a substitute device, for example, the Internet information printing device 620.

Next, in step (7), the setting information 62
1A, the Internet information printing apparatus 620 performs the requested operation processing, and ends the processing.

Hereinafter, the characteristic configuration of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

An output mode processing method of a data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line configured as described above and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. Or can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, and
A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium, and acquiring processing capability information of each output processing device for storage management A management step (not shown), a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information obtained by connecting to the Internet (step (1) in FIG. 13), and the output input by the mode input step. A first mode setting step of setting a mode for one of the output processing devices (FIG. 1)
A step (3) of FIG. 13 and a determining step (step (3) of FIG. 13) of determining whether or not the output processing device in which the output mode has been set in the first mode setting step can be used. When it is determined in the determination step that the output processing device in which the output mode is set is not in a usable state, the output mode is set by referring to the processing capability information of each output processing device stored and managed by the management process. Since there is a search step (steps (9) and (10) in FIG. 13) for searching for an executable alternative output processing device, if it is determined that an output processing device for which an output mode has already been set cannot be used, It is possible for the user to automatically search for an output processing device capable of executing the set output mode among a plurality of output processing devices and designate it as an alternative output processing device to output external information. Come, it is possible to significantly reduce the specified load of alternate output processing apparatus by the user.

Further, a data processing device connectable to the Internet through a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable through a predetermined communication medium, and an output mode of the output processing device communicable with another output processing device. Processing method,
Alternatively, a computer that controls a data processing device that can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device that can communicate via a predetermined communication medium, and an output processing device that can communicate with another output processing device can be read. Transmitting the output mode set to an alternative output processing device searched by the data processing device, the storage medium storing a unique program (FIG. 1)
3 (5)) and a second mode setting step (step (6) in FIG. 13) of setting an output mode to be received from any of the output processing devices. If no processing equipment is available,
The output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the output destination of the external information can be automatically transmitted to the automatically searched alternative output processing device and can be set.

[Third Embodiment] In the first and second embodiments, the case where the operation mode setting information is transmitted from the set device to the substitute device has been described. By providing means for acquiring setting information in a device that can be a device, a device that can be a substitute device may be configured to independently acquire and process setting information.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram for explaining the configuration of a print processing system according to the third embodiment of the present invention. The setting input unit 800 and the Internet information printing device 810,
820, alternative device search unit 830, device capability management unit 840
Corresponding to the case of

In the setting input section 800, reference numeral 801 denotes a setting input means for inputting a desired operation mode for utilizing the Internet information printing function in the system.
Also, the substitute device designation unit 803 designates a substitute device when the Internet information printing device to be set is unavailable.

Reference numeral 802 denotes an input control means, and the setting input means 8
01, the operation mode of the Internet information printing apparatus is set in accordance with the contents of the operation mode, and the alternative device specified by the alternative device specifying means 803 is specified.

The Internet information printing device 810 is a device that actually requests processing, and has a capability of providing an Internet information printing function in this device.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 810, reference numeral 811 denotes a setting information holding unit, which holds the setting of the operation mode for the Internet information printing apparatus 810 input from the setting input unit 801 as setting information 811A.

Reference numeral 812 denotes a setting information management unit.
Management such as reading and writing for 11A is performed. 8
An operation control unit 13 controls the operation of the Internet information printing apparatus 810 based on the setting information 811A.

The Internet information printing device 820 is a device used when the Internet information printing device 810 cannot be used, and has a capability of providing an Internet information printing function in the device.

In the Internet information printing apparatus 820, reference numeral 821 denotes a setting information holding unit which holds setting information 821A which is the same as or replaces the setting information 811A for the Internet information printing apparatus 810.

Reference numeral 822 denotes a setting information management means.
Management such as reading and writing to 21A is performed. 8
An operation control unit 23 controls the operation of the Internet information printing apparatus 820 based on the setting information 821A.

Reference numeral 824 denotes a setting information acquisition unit. When the processing requested by the Internet information printing apparatus 810 cannot be performed, a request for acquisition of setting information is prompted by the operation control unit 823, and the setting information management unit By 812,
The setting information 811A is acquired and held as setting information 821A as an alternative device setting to be used when the Internet information printing device 810 cannot be used.

In the device capability management unit 840, reference numeral 842 denotes a device capability information unit. The device capability information unit 842 indicates the capability of all devices in the system for each device.
The device capability information 842A is managed by the device capability management unit 841 while being held as A.

In the alternative device search unit 830, an alternative device search unit 831 refers to the device capability information 842A in the present system when the alternative device designation unit 803 does not designate an alternative device, and searches for the alternative device. Search for potential devices.

Hereinafter, the characteristic structure of this embodiment will be described with reference to FIG.

A plurality of output processing devices (Internet information printing devices 810 and 820) and a data processing device (host computer or the like) are connected via a predetermined communication medium configured as described above. An information processing system connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network, wherein the data processing device includes a mode input unit (setting input unit) for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet. 801)
First mode setting means (input control means 802) for setting the output mode input by the mode input means to any one of the output processing devices; and the output mode by the first mode setting means. (Operation control means 813) for judging whether or not the output processing device in which the output mode is set is usable, and judging by the judgment means that the output processing device in which the output mode is set is not usable. In this case, a search unit (alternative device search unit 831) for searching for an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode is provided. Therefore, when it is determined that the output processing device for which the output mode has already been set cannot be used. Automatically search for an output processing device capable of executing the output mode set by the user among a plurality of output processing devices, and output the external information. Process can be specified as an apparatus, it is possible to significantly reduce the specified load of alternate output processing apparatus by the user.

Further, the alternative output processing device includes an acquisition unit (setting information acquisition unit 824) for acquiring the output mode held in any one of the output processing devices, and an output mode acquired by the acquisition unit. And the third mode setting means (setting information management means 822) for setting the output mode, when the output processing apparatus for which the output mode has already been set cannot be used, the external output processing apparatus automatically searched for An output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the information output destination can be automatically acquired and set.

FIG. 15 is a flow chart showing an example of a third data processing procedure in the print processing system according to the present invention. The operation mode is set for the Internet information printing function in the system, and the printing is performed when an alternative device is used. Corresponds to the processing procedure. Note that (1) to (10) indicate each step.

When the registration process is started, in step (l), the setting input means 801 inputs an operation mode for using the Internet information printing function. Next, in step (2), the operation mode is set by holding the input operation mode as the setting information 811A.

Next, in step (3), it is determined whether the Internet information printing function of the set device is available. If it is determined that it is available, step (8) is performed.
Then, based on the set operation mode setting information 811A, the requested operation process is performed, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (3) that the Internet information printing function of the device set cannot be used, the process proceeds to step (4), where the substitute device is designated by the substitute device designation means 803. If it is determined that the substitute device has not been designated, the process proceeds to step (9), and based on the control of the operation control unit 813,
A substitute device search command is issued, and a substitute device search means 831 is provided.
Is searched for a device capable of acting for a processing request on a device in the present system.

In step (10), it is determined whether or not there is a corresponding alternative device based on the search result in step (9). If it is determined that there is no corresponding alternative device, a request is issued. Since there is no device that performs the processing, the processing ends as abnormal.

On the other hand, if it is determined in step (10) that there is a corresponding substitute device, the substitute device is designated by the substitute device designation means 803 in the retrieved substitute device and in step (4). If so, the process proceeds to step (5), and in the designated alternative device (for example, the Internet information printing device 820), the operation control unit 823 transmits the setting information 811A ( (For the Internet information printing device 810).

Next, in step (6), setting information 821A inheriting the setting information 811A obtained in step (5) is set in the substitute device. Then, in step (7), the requested operation processing is performed based on the setting information 821A, and the processing ends.

Hereinafter, the characteristic structure of this embodiment will be described with reference to the flowchart shown in FIG.

A data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line configured as described above, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium (network), and communication with another output processing device An output mode processing method of a possible output processing device, or a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device An acquisition step of acquiring the output mode stored in any one of the output processing devices, which is a storage medium storing a program readable by a computer that controls the output processing device capable of communicating with the output processing device (step (FIG. 5)) and a third mode setting step of setting the output mode acquired in the acquiring step (step (5) in FIG. 15). In the case where the output processing device for which the output mode has already been set cannot be used, the output mode on the output processing device which has been set as the external information output destination for the automatically searched alternative output processing device An output mode equivalent to the above can be automatically obtained and set.

Hereinafter, the configuration of a data processing program readable by the print processing system according to the present invention will be described with reference to a memory map shown in FIG.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the print processing system according to the present invention.

Although not shown, information for managing a group of programs stored in the storage medium, for example, version information, a creator and the like are also stored, and information dependent on the OS or the like on the program reading side, for example, the program An icon or the like for identification display may also be stored.

Further, data dependent on various programs is also managed in the directory. In addition, a program for installing various programs on a computer or a program for decompressing a program to be installed when the program to be installed is compressed may be stored.

FIGS. 4, 13 and 15 in this embodiment.
The functions described in (1) and (2) may be performed by a host computer by a program installed from the outside. In this case, the present invention is applied even when a group of information including a program is supplied to the output device from a storage medium such as a CD-ROM, a flash memory, or an FD, or from an external storage medium via a network. Things.

As described above, the storage medium storing the program codes of the software for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to the system or the apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MP) of the system or the apparatus is supplied.
It goes without saying that the object of the present invention is also achieved when U) reads and executes the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the novel function of the present invention, and the storage medium storing the program code constitutes the present invention.

As a storage medium for supplying the program code, for example, a floppy disk, hard disk, optical disk, magneto-optical disk, CD-ROM, C
DR, magnetic tape, nonvolatile memory card, RO
M, EEPROM and the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program code, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instruction of the program code. ) And the like perform part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided in a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instructions of the program code, The CPU provided in the function expansion board or function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing,
It goes without saying that a case where the function of the above-described embodiment is realized by the processing is also included.

[0146]

As described above, the first embodiment according to the present invention is described.
According to the invention, an information processing system in which a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. A data input device for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet, and the output mode input by the mode input device is output to any of the output processing devices. First mode setting means for setting the output mode, and designation of designating an alternative output processing apparatus capable of executing the output mode when the output processing apparatus for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means cannot be used. Means, when the output processing device for which the output mode is already set cannot be used, the user intends to use the output processing device among the plurality of output processing devices. External information obtained output processor can be designated as an alternate output processing apparatus should output that.

According to the second invention, each output processing device includes:
Holding means for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting means; and specifying the output mode held by the holding means when an alternative output processing device is specified by the specifying means. Transmitting means for transmitting to the alternative output processing device, and a second setting for setting the output mode received from one of the output processing devices.
When the output processing device for which the output mode is already set cannot be used, the user only needs to perform an operation of designating the intended output processing device among the plurality of output processing devices. Can automatically set an output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device that has been set as the output destination of the external information for the alternative output processing device designated by.

According to the third aspect, a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. An information processing system, comprising: a management unit that acquires and stores and manages processing capability information of each output processing device; a mode input unit that inputs an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; First mode setting means for setting the output mode input by the input means for any of the output processing devices, and an output processing device in which the output mode is set by the first mode setting means can be used. Determining means for determining whether the output mode is in a normal state, and determining that the output processing apparatus in which the output mode is set is not in a usable state. And a search unit for searching for an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode by referring to the processing capability information of each output processing device stored and managed by the management unit, so that the output mode is already set. If it is determined that the output processing device cannot be used, the alternative is to automatically search for the output processing device capable of executing the output mode set by the user among the plurality of output processing devices and output the external information. Can be designated as an output processing unit,
The burden on the user of specifying the alternative output processing device can be greatly reduced.

According to the fourth aspect, each output processing device includes:
Holding means for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting means, and the first mode setting means for the alternative output processing device being searched by the search means; Since there is a transmission unit for transmitting an output mode and a second mode setting unit for setting the output mode received from any of the output processing devices, when an output processing device for which an output mode has already been set cannot be used. In addition, an output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the output destination of the external information can be automatically transmitted to the automatically searched alternative output processing device and can be set.

[0150] According to the fifth aspect, the alternative output processing device includes: an obtaining unit that obtains the output mode held by any one of the output processing devices; and an output mode that obtains the output mode obtained by the obtaining unit. The third mode setting means for setting, when the output processing device for which the output mode has already been set cannot be used, the output device is automatically set as the output destination of the external information for the alternative output processing device which has been searched. The output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device that has been used can be automatically acquired and set.

According to the sixth and eleventh aspects, the output of the data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and which can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. It is a mode processing method or can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line,
And a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium, wherein the external information is obtained by connecting to the Internet. A mode input step of inputting an output mode for the first mode setting step, a first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the mode input step to any output processing device, and a first mode setting step. A designation step of designating an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when an output processing device in which the output mode is set cannot be used, so that an output processing device in which the output mode is already set cannot be used. In the case where the output processing device intended by the user is obtained among a plurality of output processing devices, It can be designated as the processing unit.

According to the seventh and twelfth aspects, a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device An output mode processing method of an output processing device capable of communication, or a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device capable of communication via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing A storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling an output processing device capable of communicating with the device, wherein the storage medium is stored when an alternative output processing device capable of executing an output mode is designated by the data processing device. Transmitting the output mode to the designated alternative output processing device, and outputting the received output mode from any other output processing device. And a second mode setting step of setting a mode. When an output processing device for which an output mode has already been set cannot be used, an output processing device intended by a user is designated among a plurality of output processing devices. By simply performing the operation, an output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the output destination of the external information for the alternative output processing device designated by the user can be automatically set.

According to the eighth and thirteenth aspects, the output of the data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and which can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. It is a mode processing method or can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line,
And a storage medium storing a computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium, and acquiring processing capability information of each output processing device. A management step of storing and managing, and a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet,
A first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the mode input step to any output processing device, and an output processing device in which the output mode is set by the first mode setting step. A determining step of determining whether or not the output processing apparatus is in an available state; and each output processing stored and managed by the managing step when the output processing apparatus in which the output mode is set is determined to be not in an available state by the determining step. A search step of searching for an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode by referring to the processing capability information of the device, if it is determined that the output processing device for which the output mode has already been set cannot be used, An alternative output process for automatically searching for an output processing device capable of executing the output mode set by the user among a plurality of output processing devices and outputting external information Can be specified as an apparatus, it is possible to significantly reduce the specified load of alternate output processing apparatus by the user.

According to the ninth and fourteenth aspects, a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device An output mode processing method of an output processing device capable of communication, or a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device capable of communication via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing A storage medium storing a computer-readable program that controls an output processing device capable of communicating with the device, wherein the output mode set for the alternative output processing device being searched by the data processing device is Since there is a transmitting step for transmitting and a second mode setting step for setting an output mode for receiving from any of the output processing devices, When the output processing device for which the mode is set cannot be used, the output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device that was set as the output destination of the external information for the automatically searched alternative output processing device is used. Can be set by automatic transmission.

According to the tenth and fifteenth aspects, a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing device An output mode processing method of an output processing device capable of communication, or a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device capable of communication via a predetermined communication medium, and another output processing An acquisition step of acquiring the output mode stored in any of the output processing apparatuses, the acquisition step being a storage medium storing a computer-readable program controlling an output processing apparatus capable of communicating with the apparatus; And a third mode setting step of setting the output mode obtained by the method described above, so that the output processing apparatus in which the output mode has already been set is used. If the output mode cannot be set, an output mode equivalent to the output mode on the output processing device set as the output destination of the external information can be automatically acquired and set for the automatically searched alternative output processing device. .

Therefore, even if the output processing device designated to output external information (characters, graphics, images, etc.) obtained from the Internet transitions to an unusable state, the unusable output processing device will be Output mode that is the same as the output mode that was set to the output format intended by the user, or can be automatically set for an alternative output processing device that has been automatically searched, and complicated output mode setting operations Reduces the burden and freely constructs an alternative output processing environment that allows quick and accurate alternative output of external information obtained under the same output conditions to one of the other output processing units connected to the network. And the like.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image processing system to which the present invention can be applied.

FIG. 2 is a block diagram illustrating a peripheral configuration of the multifunction peripheral shown in FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 is a block diagram illustrating an example of a print processing system according to the first exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a first data processing procedure in the print processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a view showing an example of an operation mode setting input screen in the print processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a view showing an example of an operation mode setting input screen in the print processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a view showing an example of an operation mode setting input screen in the print processing system according to the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a view showing an example of an operation mode setting input screen in the print processing system according to the present invention.

9 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of the storage medium shown in FIG.

FIG. 10 is a diagram illustrating an example of a computer system that captures an alternative Internet information printing device setting program and related data stored in the storage medium illustrated in FIG. 2;

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a memory map of a RAM shown in FIG. 2;

FIG. 12 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print processing system according to a second exemplary embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 shows a second example of the print processing system according to the present invention.
9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure.

FIG. 14 is a block diagram illustrating a configuration of a print processing system according to a third embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 shows a third example of the print processing system according to the present invention.
9 is a flowchart illustrating an example of a data processing procedure.

FIG. 16 is a diagram illustrating a memory map of a storage medium that stores various data processing programs that can be read by the print processing system according to the present invention.

[Description of Signs] 300 setting input unit 301 setting input unit 302 input control unit 303 alternative device designation unit 310, 320 Internet information printing device 311, 321 setting information unit 312, 322 setting information management unit 313, 323 operation control unit 314 setting Information transmission means

Claims (15)

[Claims] 1. An information processing system in which a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device is connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. A mode input unit for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet, and the data processing device outputs the output mode input by the mode input unit to any one of the output processing devices. First mode setting means for setting, and designating means for designating an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when the output processing device for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means cannot be used. And an information processing system comprising: 2. An output processing device comprising: holding means for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting means; and holding the output mode when an alternative output processing device is designated by the designation means. Transmitting means for transmitting the output mode held by the means to the designated alternative output processing device; and second mode setting means for setting the output mode received from one of the output processing devices. The information processing system according to claim 1, further comprising: 3. An information processing system in which a plurality of output processing devices and a data processing device are connected via a predetermined communication medium, and the data processing device can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line network. Management means for acquiring and storing and managing the processing capability information of each of the output processing devices; mode input means for inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; and input by the mode input means. First mode setting means for setting the output mode for any of the output processing devices, and determining whether the output processing device for which the output mode has been set by the first mode setting means is available. Determining means for determining; and determining, by the determining means, that the output processing device in which the output mode is set is not in a usable state. The information processing system characterized in that means having a search means for searching for viable alternative output processor the output mode by referring to the processing capability information of each output processing device storing management. 4. An output processing device comprising: a holding unit for holding the output mode set by the first mode setting unit; and a mode for an alternative output processing device searched by the search unit. A transmitting means for transmitting the output mode set by the setting means, and a second mode setting means for setting the output mode received from any one of the output processing devices. 3. The information processing system according to 3. 5. An alternative output processing device, comprising: an obtaining unit that obtains the output mode stored in any one of the output processing devices; and a third mode that sets the output mode obtained by the obtaining unit. The information processing system according to claim 3, further comprising: a setting unit. 6. An output mode processing method for a data processing device which is connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and is capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the first mode setting step; and a first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the mode input step to any output processing device. Specifying an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when the output processing device in which the output mode has been set in the first mode setting step cannot be used. Output mode processing method of information processing system. 7. An output mode of a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output mode of an output processing device communicable with another output processing device. A transmission method for transmitting a held output mode to a designated alternative output processing device when an alternative output processing device capable of executing an output mode is designated by the data processing device. And a second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from one of the other output processing devices. 8. An output mode processing method for a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium, A management step of acquiring and storing and managing the processing capability information of the output processing device; a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; and the output input by the mode input step A first mode setting step of setting a mode for any one of the output processing devices; and determining whether or not the output processing device for which the output mode has been set in the first mode setting step is available. And when the output processing device in which the output mode is set is determined to be not in a usable state by the determination step, Output mode processing method of the data processing apparatus characterized by comprising: a search step of referring to the processing capability information of each output processing unit to search for viable alternative output processor the output mode that is 憶 managed, the. 9. An output mode of a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output mode of an output processing device communicable with another output processing device. A processing method, comprising: a transmitting step of transmitting the output mode set to an alternative output processing device searched by the data processing device; and setting an output mode of receiving from any of the output processing devices. An output mode processing method for an output processing apparatus, comprising: a second mode setting step. 10. An output mode of a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output mode of an output processing device communicable with another output processing device. A processing method, comprising: an acquisition step of acquiring the output mode held in any one of the output processing devices; and a third mode setting step of setting the output mode acquired by the acquisition step. An output mode processing method for an output processing device, comprising: 11. A computer-readable program for controlling a data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and capable of communicating with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium is stored. A mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet, and the output mode input in the mode input step is output to any output processing device. A first mode setting step of setting, and a designation step of designating an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode when the output processing device for which the output mode has been set in the first mode setting step cannot be used. And a storage medium storing a computer-readable program. 12. A data processing device which can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device which can communicate via a predetermined communication medium, and an output processing device which can communicate with another output processing device. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, wherein, when an alternative output processing device capable of executing an output mode is designated by the data processing device, the held output mode is designated. Storing a computer-readable program, comprising: a transmission step of transmitting to an output processing device; and a second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from any other output processing device. Storage media. 13. A computer-readable program that controls a data processing device that can be connected to the Internet via a predetermined communication line and can communicate with a plurality of output processing devices via a predetermined communication medium. A management step of acquiring and storing and managing the processing capacity information of each of the output processing devices; a mode input step of inputting an output mode for external information acquired by connecting to the Internet; A first mode setting step of setting the output mode input in the input step for any one of the output processing apparatuses; and an output processing apparatus in which the output mode is set by the first mode setting step can be used. A determination step of determining whether the output mode is in a proper state, and an output processing device in which the output mode is set in the determination step is available. A search step of searching for an alternative output processing device capable of executing the output mode by referring to the processing capability information of each output processing device stored and managed by the management step when it is determined that the output mode is not the state. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program as a feature. 14. A data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output processing device communicable with another output processing device. A transmission medium for storing a computer-readable program, the transmission step of transmitting the output mode set to an alternative output processing device searched by the data processing device; A second mode setting step of setting an output mode to be received from the device, wherein a computer-readable program is stored. 15. A data processing device connectable to the Internet via a predetermined communication line, a data processing device communicable via a predetermined communication medium, and an output processing device communicable with another output processing device. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, wherein: an obtaining step of obtaining the output mode held in any one of the output processing devices; and a setting step of setting the output mode obtained by the obtaining step. 3. A storage medium storing a computer-readable program, comprising: a mode setting step of 3.