JP2001249880A - Peripheral device management system, peripheral device management device and control method thereof, computer readable memory - Google Patents

Abstract

(57) [Summary] [Problem] To provide a peripheral device management system, a peripheral device management device, a control method thereof, and a computer-readable memory capable of efficiently managing a plurality of types of peripheral devices connected on a network. . A management program of a server computer acquires data stored in a storage unit of a peripheral device. Next, the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device is held on the server computer 2. Next, the contents of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device are checked. Then, the held data is restored to the storage unit of the peripheral device.

Description

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0001]

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION 1. Field of the Invention The present invention relates to a peripheral device management system, a peripheral device management apparatus, and a peripheral device management system for connecting a server computer, a client computer, and a storage device having a storage unit via a network and managing the peripheral devices. The present invention relates to a control method and a computer-readable memory.

[0002]

2. Description of the Related Art Conventionally, when data such as fonts and forms downloaded to a storage device incorporated in a printer or a multifunction copying machine is damaged, a correct output result cannot be obtained. In addition, in order to repair the data corruption, the user has been required to perform an aggressive operation such as re-downloading the previously downloaded data by a user operation.

In the above description, data handled by the output function of a printer, a multifunction copier, or the like has been described. However, the same applies to environmental information data used when inputting a scanner in a multifunction copier. It is stored in a storage device.

[0004]

As described above, in the prior art, the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier have been damaged, causing wasteful incorrect input / output results.

[0005] Furthermore, the user first notices that the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier have been damaged by seeing an incorrect input / output result.

Further, restoring the contents of a storage device of a printer or a multifunction copier has been troublesome for the user, such as re-downloading by the user.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has a peripheral device management system, a peripheral device management device, and a peripheral device management system capable of efficiently managing a plurality of types of peripheral devices connected on a network. And a computer readable memory.

[0008]

A peripheral device management system according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following arrangement. In other words, preferably, a peripheral device including a server computer, a client computer, and a storage unit is connected via a network and manages the peripheral device, and is stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. Acquisition means for acquiring data that is stored, and data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device,
Holding means for holding on the server computer, checking means for checking the content of data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, and data held by the holding means in the storage unit of the peripheral device Restore means for restoring.

[0009] Preferably, the acquiring means acquires data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device at predetermined time intervals.

Preferably, the holding means holds the data acquired by the acquiring means on the server computer when the data acquired is different from the data acquired immediately before.

Preferably, the holding unit converts the data acquired by the acquiring unit into the data for the client computer and the data for the peripheral device, respectively, and holds the data on the server computer.

Preferably, the holding means holds all data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer.

Preferably, the holding means holds only identification information for identifying data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer.

Preferably, the checking means includes:
The content of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device is checked every predetermined period.

Preferably, the checking means includes:
When the output processing or the input / output processing of the peripheral device is executed, the contents of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device are checked.

[0016] Preferably, the restore means includes:
The data held by the holding unit is restored to a storage unit of the peripheral device based on a check result of the checking unit.

A peripheral device management apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a client computer and a peripheral device having a storage unit connected thereto via a network, and a peripheral device management device that manages the peripheral device, and an acquisition unit that acquires data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device. Holding means for holding data stored in the storage section of the peripheral device, checking means for checking the contents of data stored in the storage section of the peripheral device, and holding means for holding the data. Restoring means for restoring data to a storage unit of the peripheral device.

A method for controlling a peripheral device management system according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a method for controlling a peripheral device management system in which a server computer, a client computer, and a peripheral device including a storage unit are connected via a network and manages the peripheral device, and is stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. An acquisition step of acquiring data; a holding step of holding data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer; and checking the contents of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. A checking step; and a restoring step of restoring data held on the server computer to a storage unit of the peripheral device.

A method for controlling a peripheral device management apparatus according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is, a client computer and a peripheral device including a storage unit are connected via a network, and a method of controlling a peripheral device management device that manages the peripheral device, and acquires data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device. Obtaining the data, storing the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device in a storage medium, checking the content of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, Restoring the data held in the storage medium in the step to a storage unit of the peripheral device.

A computer readable memory according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is,
Server computer, client computer, peripheral devices including a storage unit are connected via a network,
A program code for an acquisition step of acquiring data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device, wherein the program code is a computer-readable memory storing a program code for control of the peripheral device management system for managing the peripheral device; Data stored in the storage unit of the device, a program code of a holding step of holding on the server computer, a program code of a check step of checking the content of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, A program code for a restore process for restoring data held on the server computer to a storage unit of the peripheral device.

A computer readable memory according to the present invention for achieving the above object has the following configuration. That is,
A client computer, a peripheral device having a storage unit connected thereto via a network, a computer readable memory storing a program code of control of a peripheral device management device that manages the peripheral device, and a storage unit of the peripheral device. A program code of an acquisition step of acquiring stored data, a program code of a holding step of holding data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device in a storage medium, and a program code of a storage step of the peripheral device. And a program code for a restore step of restoring the data held in the storage medium in the holding step to the storage unit of the peripheral device.

[0022]

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS Preferred embodiments of the present invention will be described below in detail with reference to the drawings. [First Embodiment] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a peripheral device management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 1, 1 is a network,
Normally, Ethernet (registered trademark) is used. Et
Other network forms, such as LocalTalk, other than hernet, may be used. Note that the term “network” in the first embodiment refers to a physical cable,
It refers to one or more of those (protocols) that realize information exchange realized by a combination of an electrical signal passing through a cable and the electrical signal, and generally refers to a general term for these. Reference numeral 2 denotes a server computer, which has functions of a file server, a Web server, and the like, and forms a core of the present invention (hereinafter, simply referred to as a server). Three
Denotes a personal computer for an administrator (hereinafter, a personal computer is referred to as a PC), and issues instructions to the server 2 and instructions to peripheral devices handled by the present invention.

Reference numerals 4 and 5 denote client PCs, which are PCs used by general users connected to the network 1. Note that the administrator PC 3 may also be used as a client PC. Reference numerals 6 and 7 denote printers, which are connected to the network 1 and
And the print command from 5 is received, and print processing is performed according to the command. Reference numerals 8 and 9 denote multifunction copiers, each having an image scanner function, a printer function, and a facsimile function, and combining one or a plurality of functions.
It can be used as a copier, printer, scanner, and facsimile.

Next, the operation of the present system will be described with reference to FIG.

The server 2 periodically communicates with the printers 6 and 7, and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9, and monitors the status of the devices and the software settings. The administrator's PC 3 changes settings, software, and resources used by the software for the device. The result of the instruction given from the administrator PC 3 is collected as information inside the server 2, and the client PCs 4 and 5 receive the information from the server 2. Further, the server 2 includes communication means using the http protocol, and the administrator PC 3 and the client PCs 4 and 5 obtain information of the server 2 using the Web Browser and give instructions to the server 2. It is possible.

When the server 2 receives an instruction from the administrator PC 3 or the client PC 4 or 5, the server 2 uses the information stored in the server 2 to execute the administrator PC 3 and client P
Return information to C4 or C5. Depending on the contents of the information, the information is acquired from the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 and the information is returned to the administrator PC 3 or the client PC 4 or 5, or the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copier are used. Processing such as setting is performed on the copying machines 8 and 9.

The administrator's PC 3 has a downloader,
The software or resources used by the software are downloaded to the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. The software includes the device's print control firmware, network control firmware,
In the multifunction copiers 8 and 9, in addition to these firmwares, there are scanner control firmware, facsimile control firmware, copier firmware, operation panel firmware, image management software, address management software, and the like. Resources used by the software include fonts, external characters, overlay forms, calibration tables, address information used by address management software, facsimile numbers, and the like.

The client PCs 4 and 5 are software (drivers and the like) for accessing and using the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 and resources used by the software (resources for the client PC).
Hold. Software includes a printer driver for using a printer, a scanner driver for using a scanner, a facsimile driver for using a facsimile, a copier utility software for controlling a copier, a network driver for using a network , WebBrowser, application software, and the like. The resources used by the software include client PC fonts corresponding to printer fonts, address information used by a facsimile driver, print data for color calibration, overlay images used for previews, and the like.

In addition to the above functions, the setting contents and software of the printer 6 and the resources used by the software are
This can be reflected on the printer 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. Similarly, it is possible to reflect the setting contents of the multifunction copier 8, software, and resources used by the software on the multifunction copier 9 and the printers 6 and 7. When there is a difference in functions between models, only functions common to both models are reflected, but information such as convertible resources is reflected after being converted. Similarly, the client P for these models
It is also possible to reflect the information on C4 on the client PC5. These processes are realized by exchanging information through the server 2.

Printers 6 and 7, multifunction copiers 8 and 9
May be changed by not only an instruction from the administrator PC 3 but also a setting from the operation panel and a setting from the client PCs 4 and 5. Those that need to accurately pass this information to the client PCs 4 and 5 are always inquired to the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 when the client PCs 4 and 5 instruct the display and the like. Client PC with information at the time of inquiry
Return to 4 and 5. If the accuracy is not so strictly required, the information held in the server 2 is used.

Next, main hardware modules of each device constituting the peripheral device management system shown in FIG. 1 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing main hardware modules of each device constituting the peripheral device management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 2, reference numeral 201 denotes a network line. The network line 201 is a physical line that configures a network between devices, and usually uses a twisted pair cable, a coaxial cable, an optical fiber, or the like. Network modules 202, CPU, RA
M, CPU board 203 with ROM, video interface (VideoIF) 204, I / O interface (IF) 205, SCSI interface (IF) 2
06, a CRT 207, a keyboard 208, a mouse 209, and a hard disk drive (H
D) 210. The hard disk drive 210
A plurality of hard disk units are connected in parallel to ensure high speed data transfer and high reliability.

Administrator PC 3, client PCs 4, 5
Are network boards 202, a CPU board 203, a video interface 204, an I / O interface 205, for example, an HD interface (IDE) such as an IDE interface.
F) 211, CRT 207, keyboard 208, mouse 209, hard disk drive (HD) 210, CD-ROM drive (CD) 210 connected thereto.
a. The server 2 differs from the server 2 in the configuration of the hard disk. Also, the CD-ROM drive 210a has a CD-R
An OM is built in, and data stored in a CD-ROM is read as needed. MO, Zip, C
Another external storage device having a built-in storage medium such as D-RW, CD-R, or DVD may be used.

The hardware modules of the printers 6 and 7 include a network board 21 corresponding to peripheral devices.
2, printer controller 213, print engine 2
14 is provided.

The hardware modules of the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 include a network board 212 corresponding to peripheral devices, a multifunction copier controller 215, a print engine 214, and an operation panel controller 21.
6, operation panel 217, scanner controller 218,
Scanner unit 219, modem (Modem) 22
0, for example, an HD interface (IF) 221 such as an IDE interface and a hard disk 222 (HD).

Next, the software configuration of the server 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the server according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 3, reference numeral 301 denotes an OS (operating system), 302 denotes a library, and 303 denotes We.
b server 304 is an application, and a peripheral device management program 3
05 inclusive. Reference numeral 306 denotes a hardware control program. As a part of the hardware control program 306, a network control program 307 and a hard disk (H
D) Includes control program 308.

Next, the detailed configuration of the peripheral device management program 305 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 4 is a diagram showing the configuration of the peripheral device management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The peripheral device management program 305 is realized as one of the applications on the server 2,
Is a management program serving as a main part, and controls the entire peripheral device management program 305. 402 is a GUI
CGI program, which passes image data expressed in html format to the web server 303. Web
The server 303 sends the data of the GUI CGI program 402 to the administrator PC 3 or the client PCs 4 and 5 using the http protocol, and transmits instructions from the administrator PC 3 or the client PCs 4 and 5 to the management program 401.

Reference numeral 403 denotes a device communication program 403, which communicates between the peripheral device and the server by using the peripheral device information acquisition module 403a and the network control program 307 to acquire information and the like from the peripheral device, Settings, and download of software and resources used by the software. Reference numeral 404 denotes an IPC program 404, which performs inter-process communication, and performs communication with another PC, particularly, the administrator PC 3 using the network control program 307. A file management program 405 uses the hard disk control program 308 to realize a file server function.

Next, the software configuration of the administrator PC 3 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 5 shows an administrator PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.
FIG. 3 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the first embodiment.

In FIG. 5, reference numeral 501 denotes an OS, which performs overall processing of the administrator PC 3. Reference numeral 502 denotes a main program of the downloader, which downloads software and resources used by the software to peripheral devices. A GUI program 503 implements a user IF module (not shown) for displaying and transmitting instructions from a user to the downloader 502. 504 is IP
C program, and the IPC program 40 of the server 2
4 is communicated.

Reference numeral 505 denotes a file management program.
Normally, it is implemented as a part of the OS 501, reads the contents of the hard disk 210 and the CD-ROM 210a,
The file management for downloading to the peripheral device through the downloader 502 is performed. Reference numeral 506 denotes a network program, which is usually implemented as a part of the OS 501, and performs network communication when reading the contents of the hard disk 210 or the CD-ROM 210a and downloading to the peripheral device through the downloader 502.

Next, the software configuration of the client PCs 4 and 5 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 6 is a diagram showing a software configuration of the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 6, reference numeral 601 denotes an OS, which performs overall processing of the client PCs 4 and 5. 602 is W
ebBrowser and Web server 3 of server 2
03 receives data expressed in html format,
The information is displayed on the screen and the user's instruction is transmitted to the server 2 via the http protocol. Reference numeral 603 denotes a client module that performs processing on a part of data received by the Web Browser 602 that cannot be processed by the Web Browser 602. Where W
The data that ebBrowser 602 cannot process is
These are resources such as software such as a printer driver for the client PC and fonts for the client PC, and need to be installed in the client PC by a predetermined method. Reference numeral 604 denotes a network program, which is normally implemented as a part of the OS 601 and uses the http protocol to execute the Web server 303.
Communicates with

Next, a detailed configuration of the downloader 502 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 7 is a diagram showing the configuration of the downloader according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 7, reference numeral 701 denotes a main (mai)
n) It is a module, which calls each module and processes parameters. A file management module 702 reads and writes a file to be downloaded using the file management program 505.
A device search module 703 searches for downloadable peripheral devices and obtains a communicable protocol, an address of the peripheral device, and the like. Reference numeral 704 denotes a file conversion module that converts a resource used by software when the format of the resource for the printer is different from the format of the resource for the client PC.

The file conversion module 704 includes a printer file conversion module 705 and a client PC file conversion module 706 inside. The difference between the resource formats is, for example,
Client PC using the font expressed by the following curve
Means that a font represented by a quadratic curve is used, or the printer and the client PC have different overlay image expression formats.

The download module 707 is a module for performing download using the network program 506. Communication module (file server)
A module 708 communicates with the server 2 and sends a client PC resource and the like to the server 2.
The IPC module 709 is a module for performing inter-process communication, and realizes inter-process communication using the IPC program 504.

Next, the operation of the downloader 502 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart showing the operation of the downloader according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 8, font download to the printer is described as an example, but the same applies to other software and resources used by the software. Also, as a premise, the downloader 502 and the server 2 are always in communication, and it is possible to obtain a file name, a peripheral device name, etc., but a communication module (file server)
To obtain a file managed in 708, a separate connection is established and the file is read.

First, in step S801, a file to be downloaded is specified. The user of the downloader 502 specifies a file by inputting a file name. In step S802, it is determined whether the file is a file on the server 2. If the file is on the server 2 (YES in step S802), the process advances to step S803. In step S803, a network connection is established. In step S804, a file is read. In step S805, ServerFlag is turned ON. Step S8
At 06, the network connection is disconnected.

On the other hand, if it is not a file on the server 2 (NO in step S803), that is, if it is a file on the management PC 3, the process proceeds to step S807. In step S807, the file is opened. Step S808
Now read the file. In step S809, S
Set the serverFlag to OFF. Step S810
Now, close the file.

That is, the file to be downloaded is read into the downloader 502 at the time of step S806 or step S810.

In step S811, a printer is selected. In step S812, it is determined whether the file can be downloaded to the printer selected in step S811. Whether or not download is possible is determined by the model and the attached storage device (RAM, flash memory, hard disk, etc.).
That is, if the model is a downloadable model and a downloadable storage device exists in the model, it is determined that the download is possible.

If download is not possible in step S812 (NO in step S812), the flow advances to step S820. In step S820, a message indicating that the file cannot be downloaded to the printer is displayed, and the process ends.

If download is possible (YES in step S812), the flow advances to step S813. In step S813, the font file is converted into a format that can be downloaded to a printer. However, if the font file is already downloadable, nothing is performed.

In step S814, the downloadable font file is transferred to the printer. In step S815, ServerFlag is set to O
It is determined whether or not N. If it is ON (YES in step S815), the process ends, assuming that the client file already exists in the server 2.

On the other hand, if ServerFlag is not ON (NO in step S815), that is, if ServerFlag is OFF, the process proceeds to step S816. In step S816, the font file is converted into a format usable by the client PC. However, if the font file has already been used in the client PC, nothing is performed. In step S817, a network connection with the server 2 is established. In step S818, the font file for the client PC is
Write to. In step S819, the connection is disconnected, the connection of the network is disconnected, and the process ends.

By the processing described above, the client P corresponding to the font file downloaded to the printer
The C font file always exists in the server 2. In the conversion of the font file, there are a case where the font file format itself is converted and a case where a header or the like is added. For example, TrueType
(Registered trademark) format font file in TrueTy
When downloading to a printer equipped with a pe rasterizer, it is necessary to add a header or the like for the printer to download. Therefore, in the file conversion processing in step S813 or step S816, a header or the like for the printer is added. . Also, change this font to Ma
When used on cOS (registered trademark), information called a FOND resource is added as additional information.

Next, the peripheral device information acquisition module 403
a will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 9 is a diagram showing the configuration of the peripheral device information acquisition module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 9, reference numeral 901 denotes main processing of the peripheral device information acquisition module, which performs overall control, communication, management, processing when an interrupt occurs, transfer of download data to the peripheral device, and the like. 902 is IPC
A processing module that exchanges information by performing inter-process communication with other modules. Reference numeral 903 denotes a timer module which generates an interrupt at regular intervals, and the main processing of the peripheral device information obtaining module 901 operates to obtain peripheral device information at the timing of the interrupt. Reference numeral 904 denotes a cache management processing module which temporarily stores peripheral device information acquired by interruption by the timer module 903 in the storage device 904a (cache).
When there is an instruction to send data from the IPC processing module 902, the information in the cache is sent to another module through the IPC processing module 902.

Reference numeral 905 denotes a TCP / IP module which exchanges data with a peripheral device capable of acquiring information and downloading data by TCP / IP. 9
06 is an AppleTalk module;
The eTalk (registered trademark) exchanges data with a peripheral device capable of acquiring information and downloading data. Reference numeral 906 denotes an IPX / SPX module.
/ SPX exchanges data with peripheral devices that can acquire information and download data. Of course, it is possible to support other protocols.

Next, the peripheral device information acquisition module 403
The processing procedure a will be described with reference to FIGS. 10A and 10B.

FIG. 10A is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of the peripheral device information acquisition module by interruption according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

When an interrupt occurs, this processing is executed.

First, in step S 1011, information is obtained from all target peripheral devices. The information to be obtained is information for confirming whether the software and the resources used by the software have been changed, such as the version of the software and the resources used by the software, the file size, the date, and the font name if it is a font. . In step S1012, the obtained information is written to the cache of the cache management processing module 904.

FIG. 10B is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the peripheral device information acquisition module in the normal processing according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In the normal processing, information acquisition and download are performed in accordance with an instruction from the user received by the user IF module.

First, in step S1021, the user I
The instruction of the F module is received through the IPC processing module 902. The contents received by the instruction include processing contents, data in the case of downloading, addresses of peripheral devices, and the like. In step S1022, it is determined whether it is a download. If it is a download (YES in step S1022), the flow advances to step S1023. In step S1023, the transmitted data is downloaded to the specified peripheral device, and the process ends.

On the other hand, if it is not a download (NO in step S1022), the flow advances to step S1024. In step S1024, the type of required information is specified. The type of information is, for example, a typeface name, form size, software version, and the like. Step S
At 1025, it is determined whether the requested information exists in the cache of the cache management processing module 904. If it exists (YE in step S1025)
S), and proceed to step S1026. Step S1026
Then, data is transmitted from the cache of the cache management processing module 904 through the IPC processing module 902.

On the other hand, if it does not exist (step S102)
(NO in 5), the process proceeds to step S1027. Step S1
In step 027, information requested from the peripheral device is obtained.
In step S1028, the acquired information is transmitted as data through the IPC processing module 902, and the process ends.

Next, the detailed configuration of the management program 401 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 11 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 11, reference numeral 1101 denotes a main module, which performs overall operation management, distribution of processing, and the like. 1102 is a GUI module, which is a CG for GUI.
Information exchange with the GUI realized by the I program 402 such as transmission of information to be displayed, processing from the GUI, and reception of data is performed. A network module 1103 inputs and outputs files and information through a network. A file server module 1104 reads, writes, and manages files. An IPC module 1105 exchanges data and information with the IPC processing module 902 by inter-process communication.

That is, the management program 401 is located at a position where it is possible to access each of the peripheral device and the GUI, the network and the file server 708, and controls the entire operation.

Next, the processing procedure of the management program 401 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

First, in step S1201, an instruction is received. In step S1202, it is determined whether the instruction is download. If it is a download (YES in step S1202), step S1203
Proceed to. In step S1203, a file on the server 2 is opened. In step S1204, the file is sent to the downloader 502 via the network module 1103, and the process returns to step S1201 to perform the next process.

On the other hand, if it is not a download (NO in step S1202), the flow advances to step S1205. In step S1205, it is determined whether the display is information display. Information display (YE in step S1205)
S), and proceed to step S1206. Step S1206
Then, information exchange is performed between the IPC module 1105 and the IPC module 1105 to acquire peripheral device information. In step S1207, the information to be displayed is
After outputting to the GUI module through the module 1102, the process returns to step S1201 to perform the next process.

On the other hand, when it is not information display (step S1)
(NO at 205), the process proceeds to step S1208. In step S1208, it is determined whether the file is to be stored in the server 2. If the file is to be saved in the server 2 (YES in step S1208), step S12
Go to 09. The saving of the file to the server is performed according to an instruction from the downloader 502, and the file is sent through the network. In step S1209,
After saving the file in the server 2, the process returns to step S1201 to perform the next process.

If the file is not stored in the server (NO in step S1208), step S1210
Proceed to. In step S1210, a file is output through the GUI. This is the output of the client PC resources and the like. After outputting the file and the like to the client PC using the http protocol which is the protocol by which the GUI communicates with the client PC, step S1201 is performed to perform the next process. Return to Through these series of processes, information and data in this system are transmitted and received.

Next, the detailed configuration of the GUI module 1102 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 13 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the GUI module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 13, reference numeral 1301 denotes a management program communication module which communicates with the main module 1101 and receives instructions, files and information from the main module 1101 and receives the html output module 13
02 and the instructions and files received from the instruction input module 1303 to the main module 1101. Reference numeral 1302 denotes an html output module, based on information and instructions received from the main module 1101,
Create a GUI screen file based on the tm rule and
It passes to the web server communication module 1304.

Reference numeral 1303 denotes an instruction input module.
An instruction is received from the web server 303, or an archived or encoded file is received, and the instruction is sent as an instruction to the main module 1101. The file separates the archived file and decodes the encoded file. Send to module 1101. Reference numeral 1304 denotes a Web server communication module which sends html information to the Web server 303 and passes an instruction from the Web server 303 to the instruction input module 1303.

Next, the detailed configuration of the client module 603 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 14 is a diagram showing a detailed configuration of the client module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The client module 603 is installed on the client PC, and is
The file received by the ser 602 is processed. 140
Reference numeral 1 denotes an input module, which is a WebBrowser60.
2 to receive data. The received data usually has management information and file entities archived.

A determination module 1402 separates the received file management information from the file entity and determines the file type based on the management information. The management information includes a file type, a file name, a file size, and the like. If the file type is a font, the font registration module 1403 is called. If the file type is the overlay form, the overlay form registration module 1404 is called. If the file type is an address book, the address book registration module 140
Call 5 File type is Color Cali
For colorTable (color calibration table), Color Calibrati
The on Table registration module 1406 is called.

Reference numeral 1403 denotes a font registration module which registers the received font in the client PC. An overlay form registration module 1404 registers the received file in the overlay form processing application. If the overlay processing application is not installed, no processing is performed. Reference numeral 1405 denotes an address book registration module, which converts the received address book into a format to be registered, such as e-mail management software or a FAX driver, and then performs registration. 1406 is Color Calibratio
n Table registration module, which registers the received file in a printer driver that performs image processing.

Next, a data flow when a font is downloaded to a printer will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 15 is a diagram showing a data flow when a font according to the first embodiment of the present invention is downloaded to a printer.

In FIG. 15, the administrator downloads the font read into the administrator PC 3 to the printer 6. Next, the font is registered in the server 2.
Then, the client PC 4 and the client PC 5
The client PC 603 reads a font file for the client PC from the server 2 using the ebBrowser 602 and registers the font file in the system with the client module 603. When downloading to another printer, the administrator PC 3
Reads the font registered in the server 2 and downloads it to the printer 7 as it is. The same operation is performed when registering an overlay form.

Next, a data flow when the client PC obtains the color calibration table will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a data flow when the client PC acquires the color calibration table according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

Then, the color calibration table generated in the printer 6 is transmitted to the server 2. so,
Client PCs 4 and 5 are WebBrowser60
2, the color calibration table of the printer 6 is received from the server 2 and registered in the printer driver. Then, the color calibration table generated by the printer 7 is transmitted to the server 2. When the client PCs 4 and 5 receive the color calibration table of the printer 7, the same processing as that described above is performed. This is periodically performed by interrupt processing. Represents a data flow when the color calibration table is downloaded from the administrator PC 3 to, for example, the multifunction copying machine 8. That is, when the color calibration table is created by using the color measurement software or the like on the administrator's PC 3, it is downloaded from the administrator's PC 3. Thus, the same data as the downloaded data is sent directly from the administrator PC 3 to the server 2.

[0107] Further, the server PC 2 to the client PC 4,
The transfer of the data to the printer 5 is the same as the color calibration table generated in the printer 6. When the image data captured by the scanner is passed to a printer driver for use as an overlay form, a data flow similar to that of the color calibration table generated by the printer 6 occurs.

Next, a data flow when address book data is obtained from the multifunction copier will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 17 is a diagram showing a data flow when address book data according to the first embodiment of the present invention is obtained from a multifunction copier.

Then, the address book data in the multifunction copier 8 is sent to the server 2. And the client P
C4 and C5 receive the address book data of the server 2, and the client module 603
Add or overwrite the address book data in 5.

Next, a data flow when the address book data on the client PC 4 is downloaded to the multifunction copier 8 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a data flow when downloading the address book data on the client PC to the multifunction copying machine according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

The address book data sent to the server 2 using the Web Browser is written to the multifunction copier 8 as it is. Is a multifunction copier 8
3 shows the flow of data when copying the address book data. The data of the multifunction copier 8 is once sent to the server 2 and written into the multifunction copier 9 as it is.

Next, a data flow when the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are backed up will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a data flow for backing up the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This process is normally instructed and activated by the Web Browser, but may be instructed by the operation panel of the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 and activated. This processing may be automatically and periodically performed by the management program 401 operating on the server 2. Also, the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 send the server 2
If the management program 401 has a function of notifying a resource change to the management program 401, the management program 401 can automatically perform a backup process in response to the notification. Here, the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are sent to the server 2 and stored in the file server in the server 2.

Next, the processing procedure of the management program 401 running on the server 2 when backing up the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 will be described with reference to FIG. .

FIG. 34 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the management program operating on the server when backing up the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This process is executed each time a timer is periodically instructed to the management program 401 by a timer.

When an interrupt instruction is issued, step S3
At 401, the contents of the storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier are checked. The check here is performed by checking the information on the resource of the storage device of the processing target printer or the multifunction copier saved on the server 2 at the time of the first resource download processing or the previous backup processing, and the current processing target printer or function. Compare the actual resources in the storage of the multifunction copier.

In step S3402, step S34
As a result of the check at 01, if there is no change in the resources (NO at step S3402), the process ends. On the other hand, when there is a change in the resource (YE in step S3402)
S), and proceed to step S3403. Step S3403
Then, the actual resources in the storage device of the current printer to be processed or the multifunction copier are stored in the server 2 as backup data, and the process is terminated.

The backup data in step S3403 may be all the resources in the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier, or may be only the changed resources found in step S3401. Further, the data stored in the server 2 may be the data stored in the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier, or the management program 401.
May be only identification information for identifying equivalent resource data held in the server 2. The identification information for identifying a resource here includes a resource name such as a font name and a form name, an ID of each resource, a creation date of each resource, a version of each resource, a size of each resource, and information obtained by combining them. It is.

Next, the backed up printers 6 and 7
Alternatively, a data flow when restoring the contents of the storage devices of the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a data flow when restoring the contents of the backed-up printer or the storage device of the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This process is normally instructed and activated by the Web Browser, but may be instructed and activated from the operation panel of the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. This processing may be automatically performed by the management program 401 running on the server 2. Then, the server 2 sends the data backed up in the file server of the server 2 to the storage device of the backup source printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9.

Next, the backed up printers 6 and 7
Alternatively, the management program 4 operating on the server 2 when restoring the contents of the storage devices of the multifunction copiers 8 and 9
01 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart showing the processing procedure of the management program operating on the server when restoring the contents of the backed-up printer or the storage device of the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This process is executed each time an interrupt is periodically issued to the management program 401 by the timer.

When an interrupt instruction is issued, step S3 is performed.
At 501, the contents of the storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier are checked. In this check, the resource data is checked for damage using a checksum for error checking held in a storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier together with the resources.

At step S3502, step S35
As a result of the check of 01, if the resource is not damaged (NO in step S3502), the process ends. On the other hand, if the resource is damaged (step S3502)
YES at step S3503, and proceeds to step S3503.

In step S3503, the backup resource data stored on the server 2 by the method including the processing described with reference to FIG. 34 is downloaded to the processing target printer or the storage device of the multifunction copier.
The process ends. At this time, if the backup resource data stored on the server 2 includes only information for identifying the equivalent resource data held in the server 2 by the management program 401, the information is used as the source. Build the entity of the resource data in and download it.

Next, the server 2 for printing the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 will be described.
The processing procedure of the management program 401 operating above will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart showing a processing procedure of a management program operating on the server when printing the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

This process is a printing process performed by the management program 401 on the server 2 in response to a print request from the client PC 4 or 5.

In step S3601, the contents of the storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier are checked. In this check, the resource data is checked for damage using a checksum for error checking held in a storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier together with the resources.

In step S3602, step S36
As a result of the check at 01, if the resource is not damaged (NO at step S3602), the process proceeds to step S3605. On the other hand, if the resource is damaged (step S
3602), and proceeds to step S3603.

In step S3603, the backup resource data stored on the server 2 by the method including the processing described with reference to FIG. 34 is downloaded to the processing target printer or the storage device of the multifunction copier. At this time, if the backup resource data stored on the server 2 includes only information for identifying the equivalent resource data held in the server 2 by the management program 401, the information is used as the source. Build the entity of the resource data in and download it. In step S3604, the resources in the storage device of the printer to be processed or the multifunction copier are restored, and the process advances to step S3605. In step S3605, the print data instructed to be printed by the client PC 4 or 5 is transmitted to the processing target printer or the storage device of the multifunction copier, and the printing process ends.

In the example described above, the processing at the time of executing the output processing of printing has been described. In the multifunction copier, the scan processing is executed via the server 2 in accordance with the instruction of the client PC described in FIG. Remote input processing can also be performed. If information necessary for input processing is stored in the storage device of the multifunction copier, the process proceeds from step S3602 to step S3.
After applying the processing of step 603, it is also possible to cause an actual scanning operation to be performed.

Next, a data flow when the client PC 4 or 5 acquires software from the server 2 will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a data flow when the client PC of the first embodiment of the present invention acquires software from the server.

Then, the client PC 2 acquires the software from the server 2 and
3 decodes and installs the software.

Next, the client PC 4 or 5 sends a printer driver, facsimile driver,
A data flow when acquiring a driver for a peripheral device such as a scanner driver will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 22 is a diagram showing a data flow when the client PC of the first embodiment of the present invention acquires a driver for a peripheral device from the server.

The client PC 4 obtains the driver of the peripheral device from the server 2. When the server 2 sends out the driver of the peripheral device, the client PC 4 associates the peripheral device with the peripheral device (ie, For example, reference is made to a multifunction copier 8). That is, a network address, a model name, a function, and the like are sent together to the client PC 4 or 5, and the client module 603 installs a driver based on the information sent from the server 2.

Next, a data structure when data is transmitted from the server 2 to the client PC 4 or 5 will be described.
This will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 23 is a diagram showing a data structure when data is transmitted from the server to the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 23, the number N of files archived and held internally is placed at the head. Next, there is an array of N addresses, and there is a file entity held together with the header at the position indicated by each address. The header includes a header length, a file type, and a file entity size. If there is additional information, the header is added to the rear of the header. That is, the file entity exists after the head length from the head of the header.

Next, the font file is transferred to the client P.
The header when sending to C will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 24 is a diagram showing header information when a font file according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to a client PC.

As shown in FIG. 24, a version, a file name, and a font format are added to the header as additional information.

Next, the header when sending the overlay form to the client PC will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 25 is a diagram showing a header when sending the overlay form to the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 25, the PDL type, paper size, resolution, and form number are added to the header as additional information.

Next, the header when sending the color calibration table to the client PC will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 26 is a diagram showing a header when the color calibration table according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to the client PC.

As shown in FIG. 26, the measurement date and time of the calibration information is added to the header as additional information.

Next, the header used when transmitting information (overlay image information) used by the printer driver when overlaying an image scanned by the scanner to the client PC will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 27 is a diagram showing a header when sending information used by a printer driver to a client PC when overlaying an image scanned by the scanner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

As shown in FIG. 27, a sheet size, a resolution, and an overlay number are added to the header as additional information.

Next, the header when sending the software to the client PC will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 28 is a diagram showing a header when the software according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to the client PC.

As shown in FIG. 28, a software version and a file checksum are added to the header as additional information. The file entity is a self-extracting file installer, and the client module 603 activates the downloaded self-extracting file installer.

Next, the header when transmitting the driver of the peripheral device to the client PC will be described with reference to FIG.

FIG. 29 is a diagram showing a header when the driver according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to the client PC.

As shown in FIG. 29, the header includes, as additional information, the model name of the peripheral device and the address for accessing the peripheral device (for example, I / O for TCP / IP connection).
P address), driver version and file checksum. The file entity is a self-extracting file installer, and the client module 603 activates the downloaded self-extracting file installer using the model name and address as arguments.

As described above, according to the first embodiment, for example, the server 2 and the client PCs 4, 5,
In an environment where printers 6 and 7 or multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are connected via network 1 and printers 6 and 7 or multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are managed by server 2, The server 2 backs up the contents of the resources stored in the storage devices of the copiers 8 and 9 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. When the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are damaged, the contents are restored using the backup data, so that the printers 6 and 7 or the printers always holding the normal resources are restored. Multifunction copiers 8, 9
Processing such as printing on the PC becomes possible.

Further, when the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier are damaged, the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier are automatically restored without bothering the user. A correct output result can be obtained.

The contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier can be monitored periodically and automatically.

The latest contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier can be held as backup data.

Further, backup / restore can be performed without requiring data collection from the server at the time of restoration.

Further, since the backup is performed on the server only when the content is different from the previously backed-up content, the backup data can be reduced, the resources managed by the server can be saved, and the processing time in the backup can be reduced. Can be.

Further, damage to the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier can be periodically and automatically detected.

Further, damage to the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier can be automatically detected only when the contents of the storage device are necessary.

Further, the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier can be automatically restored.
[Second Embodiment] FIG. 30 is a diagram showing a configuration of a peripheral device management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

In FIG. 30, reference numeral 1 denotes a network, which normally uses Ethernet. Ether
Other network forms, such as LocalTalk, may be used in addition to "et". Note that the term “network” in the present embodiment is a protocol (protocol) that realizes information exchange realized by a combination of a physical cable, an electric signal passing over a cable, and an electric signal. And one or more of these, and usually refers to these generic names. Reference numeral 2 denotes a server computer, which has functions such as a Web server, and is a core of the present invention. Reference numeral 3 denotes an administrator's PC which issues instructions to the server 2 and instructions to peripheral devices handled by the present invention.

Reference numerals 4 and 5 denote client PCs, which are used by general users connected to the network. Note that the administrator PC 3 may also be used as a client PC. Printers 6 and 7 are connected to the network 1 and receive print commands from the client PCs 4 and 5, and perform print processing according to the print commands. Reference numerals 8 and 9 denote function-combination type copiers, each having an image scanner function, a printer function, and a facsimile function, and can be used as a copier, a printer, a scanner, and a facsimile by combining one or more functions. Reference numeral 10 denotes a file server, which normally holds files shared by the server 2, the administrator PC 3, and the like.

Next, the operation of the present system will be described with reference to FIG.

The server 2 periodically communicates with the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 to monitor the status of the devices and the software settings. The administrator's PC 3 changes settings, software, and resources used by the software for the device. The result of the instruction given from the administrator PC 3 is collected as information inside the server 2 or held as a file in the file server 10, and the client PCs 4 and 5 receive the information from the server 2, or Receive files from The server 2 includes communication means using the http protocol, and the administrator PC 3 and the client PCs 4 and 5 obtain information of the server 2 using the Web Browser and give instructions to the server 2. Is possible.

Upon receiving an instruction from the administrator PC 3 or the client PC 4 or 5, the server 2 uses the information stored in the server 2 or the file held in the file server 10 to execute the administrator PC 3, the client PC 4 or 5. Returns information or a file to Further, depending on the contents of the information, the information is obtained from the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 and the information is returned to the administrator PC 3 or the client PC 4 or 5 or the printers 6 and 7 or
Processing such as setting is performed on the multifunction copiers 8 and 9.

The administrator PC 3 includes a downloader, and downloads software or resources used by the software to the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. The software includes the print control firmware of the device, the network control firmware, and in the multifunction copiers 8 and 9, in addition to these firmware, scanner control firmware, facsimile control firmware, copier firmware,
There are operation panel firmware, image management software, address management software, and the like. Resources used by the software include fonts, external characters, overlay forms, calibration tables, address information used by address management software, facsimile numbers, and the like. These software and resource files are stored in the file server 10.

The client PCs 4 and 5 are provided with software (drivers and the like) for accessing and using the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 and resources used by the software (resources for the client PC).
Hold. Software includes a printer driver for using a printer, a scanner driver for using a scanner, a facsimile driver for using a facsimile, a copier utility software for controlling a copier, a network driver for using a network , WebBrowser, application software, and the like. The resources used by the software include client PC fonts corresponding to printer fonts, address information used by a facsimile driver, print data for color calibration, overlay images used for previews, and the like.

In addition to the above functions, the setting contents of the printer 6, the software, and the resources used by the software are
This can be reflected on the printer 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9. Similarly, the setting contents, software, and resources used by the software of the multifunction copier 8 can be reflected on the multifunction copier 9 and the printers 6 and 7. If there are differences in functions between models,
Only the functions common to both models are reflected, but information such as convertible resources is reflected after conversion. Similarly, the client P for these models
It is also possible to reflect the information on C4 on the client PC5. These processes are realized by exchanging information through the server 2 and the file server 10.

Printers 6 and 7, multifunction copiers 8 and 9
May be changed by not only an instruction from the administrator PC 3 but also a setting from the operation panel and a setting from the client PCs 4 and 5. Those that need to accurately pass this information to the client PCs 4 and 5 are always inquired to the printers 6 and 7 and the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 when the client PCs 4 and 5 instruct the display and the like. Client PC with information at the time of inquiry
Return to 4 and 5. If the accuracy is not so strictly required, information or a file held in the server 2 or the file server 10 is used.

The file server 10 communicates with the server 2, the administrator PC 3, and the client PCs 4 and 5 via the network 1 to receive and send the file, and manages the file as needed.

Here, the configuration example in which the server 2 and the administrator PC 3 are each one has been described.
0 is separated from the server 2 and the administrator's PC 3, so that even if there are a plurality of servers 2 and the administrator's PC 3, files and information can be easily managed. That is, the file server 1
0 holds information shared in the system, sends information and files to each server and each administrator PC as needed, and receives and manages information and files from them.

In the second embodiment, the file server 708 realized in the administrator's PC 3 of the first embodiment is separately provided as the file server 10, so that the processing load of the administrator's PC 3 is reduced. are doing. The processing executed in the second embodiment is the same as that of the administrator PC 3 in the first embodiment.
The processing for the file server 708 may be performed for the file server 10, and details thereof are omitted here.

As described above, according to the second embodiment, for example, the server 2, the file server 10, the administrator's PC 3, the client PCs 4, 5, and the printers 6, 7 or the multifunction copiers 8, 9 are used. Even in an environment where the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are managed by the server 2 while being connected via the network 1, the printers 6 and 7 or multifunction copiers described in the first embodiment can be used. The server 2 or the server backs up the contents of the resources stored in the storage devices of the copying machines 8 and 9. When the contents of the storage devices of the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 are damaged, a management program for restoring the contents by using the backup data is operable, and always holds a normal resource. Processing such as printing by the printers 6 and 7 or the multifunction copiers 8 and 9 becomes possible. [Third Embodiment] FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a storage medium storing program codes of software for realizing the functions of each embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram showing program modules constituting program codes of software for realizing the functions of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 33 shows a storage medium storing a program code of software for realizing the function of each embodiment of the present invention in a server, an administrator's PC, or a client PC.
FIG. 4 is a diagram showing a process of loading data into a.

As can be seen from the above, the present invention can be executed by a computer such as a workstation or a personal computer using a portable storage medium.

That is, according to the present invention, a storage medium storing software program codes for realizing the functions of the above-described embodiments is supplied to a system or apparatus, and the computer (or CPU or MPU) of the system or apparatus is provided.
Needless to say, this can also be achieved by the PU) reading and executing the program code stored in the storage medium.

In this case, the program code itself read from the storage medium realizes the function of the above-described embodiment, 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, CD
-R, a magnetic tape, a nonvolatile memory card, a ROM, or the like can be used.

When the computer executes the readout program codes, not only the functions of the above-described embodiment are realized, but also the OS (Operating System) running on the computer based on the instructions of the program codes. ) May perform some or all of the actual processing, and the processing may realize the functions of the above-described embodiments.

Further, after the program code read from the storage medium is written into a memory provided on a function expansion board inserted into the computer or a function expansion unit connected to the computer, based on the instruction of the program code, It goes without saying that the CPU included in the function expansion board or the function expansion unit performs part or all of the actual processing, and the processing realizes the functions of the above-described embodiments.

[0196]

As described above, according to the present invention,
A peripheral device management system, a peripheral device management device, a control method thereof, and a computer-readable memory capable of efficiently managing a plurality of types of peripheral devices connected on a network can be provided.

[Brief description of the drawings]

FIG. 1 is a diagram showing a configuration of a peripheral device management system according to a first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 2 is a diagram showing main hardware modules of each device constituting the peripheral device management system according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 3 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration of a server according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a peripheral device management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration of an administrator PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a software configuration of a client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 7 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a downloader according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 8 is a flowchart illustrating an operation of the downloader according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 9 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a peripheral device information acquisition module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 10 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a peripheral device information acquisition module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 11 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 12 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a management program according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 13 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a GUI module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 14 is a diagram illustrating a detailed configuration of a client module according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 15 is a diagram illustrating a data flow when a font according to the first embodiment of the present invention is downloaded to a printer.

FIG. 16 is a diagram showing a data flow when a client PC acquires a color calibration table according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 17 is a diagram illustrating a data flow when address book data according to the first embodiment of the present invention is acquired from the multifunction copier.

FIG. 18 is a diagram showing a data flow when downloading address book data on the client PC to the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 19 is a diagram showing a data flow when backing up the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 20 is a diagram showing a data flow when restoring the contents of a storage device of a backed-up printer or a multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 21 is a diagram showing a data flow when the client PC of the first embodiment of the present invention acquires software from a server.

FIG. 22 is a diagram illustrating a data flow when the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention acquires a driver for a peripheral device from the server.

FIG. 23 is a diagram illustrating a data structure when data is transmitted from the server to the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 24 is a diagram illustrating header information when a font file according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to a client PC.

FIG. 25 is a diagram illustrating a header when sending an overlay form to the client PC according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 26 is a diagram illustrating a header when a color calibration table according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to a client PC.

FIG. 27 is a diagram illustrating a header when transmitting information used by a printer driver to a client PC when overlaying an image scanned by the scanner according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 28 is a diagram illustrating a header when sending the software according to the first embodiment of the present invention to a client PC.

FIG. 29 is a diagram illustrating a header when the driver according to the first embodiment of the present invention is transmitted to a client PC.

FIG. 30 is a diagram illustrating a configuration of a peripheral device management system according to a second embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 31 is a diagram showing a storage medium storing program codes of software for realizing the functions of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 32 is a diagram illustrating program modules constituting program codes of software for realizing the functions of the embodiments of the present invention.

FIG. 33 is a diagram showing a process of loading a storage medium storing program codes of software for realizing the functions of the embodiments of the present invention into a server, a PC for an administrator, or a client PC.

FIG. 34 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a management program operating on the server when backing up the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 35 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a management program operating on the server when restoring the contents of the storage device of the backed-up printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

FIG. 36 is a flowchart illustrating a processing procedure of a management program operating on the server when printing the contents of the storage device of the printer or the multifunction copier according to the first embodiment of the present invention.

[Explanation of symbols]

 Reference Signs List 1 network 2 server computer 3 administrator personal computer 4 client PC 5 client PC 6 printer 7 printer 8 multifunction copier 9 multifunction copier

 ──────────────────────────────────────────────────続 き Continuing on the front page (72) Inventor Jun Horiyama 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon Inc. (72) Inventor Yoshiko Naito 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo Canon (72) Inventor Tetsuo Sakai 3-30-2 Shimomaruko, Ota-ku, Tokyo F-term (reference) 2C061 AP01 AP03 AP04 AP07 AR01 HJ06 HQ12 HQ17 HR07 5B021 AA01 AA19 BB06 EE04 JJ02 5B089 GA11 GA13 GA16 GB02 HA06 JB22 KA12 KA13 KC30 KC47 KH04 5K033 AA00 BA04 CA08 CC02 DA01 DA13 DB12 EA03 EA07

Claims (22)

[Claims] 1. A peripheral device management system for connecting a peripheral device including a server computer, a client computer, and a storage unit via a network and managing the peripheral device, wherein the system is stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device. Acquisition means for acquiring data; holding means for holding data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer; and checking the contents of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. A peripheral device management system, comprising: a check unit; and a restore unit that restores data held by the holding unit to a storage unit of the peripheral device. 2. The peripheral device management system according to claim 1, wherein the obtaining unit obtains data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device at predetermined time intervals. 3. The peripheral device management system according to claim 1, wherein the holding unit holds the data acquired by the acquiring unit on the server computer when the acquired data is different from data acquired immediately before. . 4. The server according to claim 1, wherein the holding unit converts the data acquired by the acquiring unit into data for the client computer and data for the peripheral device, and retains the data on the server computer. 2. The peripheral device management system according to 1. 5. The peripheral device management system according to claim 1, wherein the holding unit holds all data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer. 6. The peripheral device management device according to claim 1, wherein the holding unit holds identification information for identifying data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer. system. 7. The peripheral device management system according to claim 1, wherein the check unit checks the contents of data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device at predetermined time intervals. 8. The data processing apparatus according to claim 1, wherein the check unit checks the contents of data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device when executing output processing or input / output processing of the peripheral device. The peripheral device management system according to 1. 9. The storage device according to claim 1, wherein the restoration unit restores the data held by the holding unit to a storage unit of the peripheral device based on a check result of the check unit. Peripheral equipment management system. 10. A peripheral device management device that connects a client computer and a peripheral device having a storage unit via a network and manages the peripheral device, and acquires data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. Acquiring means for storing, storing means for storing data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, checking means for checking the content of data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, and storing in the storing means And a restoring unit for restoring the stored data in a storage unit of the peripheral device. 11. A method for controlling a peripheral device management system that connects a server computer, a client computer, and a peripheral device including a storage unit via a network and manages the peripheral device, wherein the peripheral device is stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. An acquiring step of acquiring data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device; a holding step of retaining data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer; and a content of data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. A checking step of checking the data stored on the server computer,
And a restoring step of restoring in a storage unit of the peripheral device. 12. The control method for a peripheral device management system according to claim 11, wherein the obtaining step obtains data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device every predetermined period. 13. The peripheral device management system according to claim 11, wherein the holding step holds the data on the server computer when data acquired in the acquiring step is different from data acquired immediately before. Control method. 14. The method according to claim 1, wherein the holding step converts the data acquired in the acquiring step into data for the client computer and data for the peripheral device, respectively, and retains the data on the server computer. 12. The control method for the peripheral device management system according to item 11. 15. The control method for a peripheral device management system according to claim 11, wherein said holding step holds all data stored in a storage unit of said peripheral device on said server computer. 16. The peripheral device management according to claim 11, wherein the holding step holds, on the server computer, identification information for identifying data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device. How to control the system. 17. The control method for a peripheral device management system according to claim 11, wherein in the checking step, the content of data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device is checked every predetermined period. 18. The method according to claim 11, wherein the checking step checks the contents of the data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device when executing the output processing or the input / output processing of the peripheral device. 3. The control method of the peripheral device management system according to 1. 19. The method according to claim 11, wherein the restoring step restores data held on the server computer to a storage unit of the peripheral device based on a check result of the checking step. The control method of the peripheral device management system described in the above. 20. A method for controlling a peripheral device management device that connects a client computer and a peripheral device including a storage unit via a network and manages the peripheral device, wherein the method is stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device. An acquisition step of acquiring data, a holding step of holding data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device in a storage medium, and a checking step of checking the content of data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device. A restoring step of restoring data held in the storage medium in the holding step to a storage unit of the peripheral device. 21. A computer-readable memory in which a server computer, a client computer, and a peripheral device having a storage unit are connected via a network, and a program code for controlling a peripheral device management system that manages the peripheral device is stored. A program code of an acquisition step of acquiring data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device, and a program code of a holding step of retaining data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device on the server computer. A program code of a check step of checking the contents of data stored in the storage unit of the peripheral device, and data held on the server computer,
And a program code for a restore process for restoring in a storage unit of the peripheral device. 22. A computer readable memory in which a client computer and a peripheral device having a storage unit are connected via a network, and a program code for controlling a peripheral device management apparatus for managing the peripheral device is stored. A program code of an acquisition step of acquiring data stored in a storage unit of the device; a program code of a holding step of holding data stored in a storage unit of the peripheral device in a storage medium; and storage of the peripheral device. A program code of a check step for checking the content of data stored in the storage unit, and a program code of a restore step of restoring the data held in the storage medium in the holding step to a storage unit of the peripheral device. A computer readable memory comprising: