JP2018101219A - Electronic apparatus setting device and program - Google Patents

Abstract

PROBLEM TO BE SOLVED: To provide an electronic device setting device and a program for confirming a difference in a set value between a plurality of electronic devices and changing the set value by using a user interface which is easy for a user to use. SOLUTION: A PC 10 acquires setting values of a plurality of multifunction devices 40 from each multifunction device 40, and compares these setting values for each setting item. When the PC 10 detects a set value having a difference between the multifunction devices 40, the PC 10 accepts the selection of one of the set values of the detected difference set value. Then, the PC 10 displays the Web panel corresponding to the selected setting item and accepts the change of the setting value of the selected setting item. [Selection diagram] Fig. 5

Description

  The present invention relates to an electronic device setting device and a program for allowing a user to easily check and change setting values of a plurality of electronic devices.

  When the same job is executed using multiple electronic devices (for example, MFP (Multi Function Peripheral)), some of the setting values related to the function used to execute the job are The same output product (output) may not be obtained.

  In this case, the user checks and changes different setting values, but needs to search for a setting screen for changing the setting values for each multifunction device. Further, although it is conceivable to copy all setting values of one multifunction device to all setting values of another multifunction device, there is a problem that the setting values need not be changed.

  Therefore, as for the confirmation of the setting value, as disclosed in Patent Document 1, a technique is disclosed in which the printing condition setting data of the first and second printers selected on the driver selection screen is read from the registry and each setting item is compared. ing. As for changing the setting value, one using a utility such as an MFP setting application is known.

JP 2007-200304 A

  However, Patent Document 1 is a technique for comparing a plurality of driver printing conditions of one MFP by displaying them side by side and making a user recognize a setting difference, and confirming setting values of a plurality of electronic devices. is not.

  Also, when a utility is used to change the setting value, the utility UI (user interface) and the actual electronic device UI are usually different. There is a possibility that the relevance between the setting item and the actual setting item of the MFP cannot be understood. As a result, there is a possibility that a setting value different from the setting value desired by the user is input.

  The present invention is intended to solve the above-described problems, and an electronic device for confirming a difference in setting values between a plurality of electronic devices and changing the setting values using a user interface that is easy for a user to use. An object is to provide a device setting device and a program.

  The gist of the present invention for achieving the object lies in the inventions of the following items.

[1] a display unit for displaying Web panels of a plurality of electronic devices;
A setting value acquisition unit for acquiring setting values of the plurality of electronic devices from each electronic device;
A comparison unit that compares the setting value of the electronic device acquired by the setting value acquisition unit for each setting item, and detects the setting item of the setting value that is different between the electronic devices;
An operation unit that accepts selection of one setting item among setting items of a setting value having a difference detected by the comparison unit;
A display control unit that displays each Web panel corresponding to the one setting item received by the operation unit on the display unit together with a setting value of the one setting item;
Have
The electronic device setting device, wherein the operation unit receives a change in a setting value of the one setting item.

  In the above invention, a setting item having a setting value that is different among a plurality of electronic devices is detected, and the Web panel corresponding to the selected setting item among the detected setting items is set to the setting item. Displayed with value. Then, the electronic device setting apparatus receives an instruction to change the setting value of the selected setting item from the user via the Web panel.

[2] The display control unit
Display a list of setting items of the setting values having a difference on the display unit;
When the operation unit receives selection of the one setting item from the list, each Web panel corresponding to the one setting item is displayed on the display unit together with a setting value of the one setting item. [1] The electronic device setting device according to [1].

  In the said invention, the setting item of the detected setting value with a difference is displayed as a list. When a specific setting item is selected from the list, a Web panel corresponding to the specific setting item is displayed together with the setting value of the setting item.

[3] The operation unit receives setting item specifying information for specifying a setting item of a setting value to be compared by the comparing unit,
The comparison unit compares a setting value of a setting item specified by the setting item specifying information for each setting item, and detects a setting value having a difference between the electronic devices [1] Or the electronic device setting apparatus as described in [2].

  In the said invention, only the setting value of the setting item specified by setting item specific information is compared.

[4] The electronic device setting device according to [3], wherein the setting item specifying information is a keyword.

[5] The setting value acquisition unit sets setting values of setting items related to the function of each electronic device used for executing a job submitted to any one of the plurality of electronic devices. Obtained from each electronic device,
The comparison unit compares setting values of setting items of each electronic device related to the function for each setting item, and detects a setting value having a difference between the electronic devices. [1 ] Or the electronic device setting device according to [2].

  In the above invention, only the setting values of the setting items related to the function of each electronic device used for executing a job input to the electronic device are compared.

[6] The electronic device setting device according to [5], wherein the job is selected from a job list of each electronic device.

  In the above invention, one job is selected from the job list recorded in each electronic device, and the setting values of the setting items related to the function of each electronic device used to execute the selected job are compared. Is done.

[7] The setting value acquisition unit acquires a setting value of an image quality setting item related to the image quality of the printing function of the electronic device,
The operation unit accepts selection of one image quality setting item among the image quality setting items,
The display control unit displays each Web panel corresponding to the one image quality setting item that has been selected by the operation unit on the display unit together with a setting value of the image quality setting item, and further, the one image quality setting A setting guide for setting the setting value of the item is displayed on the display unit,
The electronic device setting apparatus according to any one of [1] to [6], wherein the operation unit receives a change in a setting value of the one image quality setting item.

  In the above invention, the Web panel corresponding to the image quality setting item related to the image quality of the printing function is displayed together with the setting value of the image quality setting item, and further, a setting guide for setting the setting value is displayed. Then, a setting value change instruction is issued with reference to the displayed setting guide.

[8] An information processing apparatus including a display unit that displays Web panels of a plurality of electronic devices and an operation unit that receives an operation on the Web panel displayed on the display unit. [1] A program that functions as the electronic device setting device according to any one of [7].

  According to the electronic device setting device and the program according to the present invention, it is possible to check a difference in setting values between a plurality of electronic devices and change the setting values using a user interface that is easy for the user to use.

1 is a schematic diagram of an electronic device setting system according to an embodiment of the present invention. It is a block diagram which shows schematic structure of PC as an electronic device setting apparatus concerning embodiment of this invention. It is explanatory drawing for demonstrating the web panel application and setting call tool which are stored in PC. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of a multifunction machine. 10 is a flowchart showing a process (setting call process) for calling a setting value of each MFP and displaying a setting value of a selected setting item on a corresponding Web panel. It is explanatory drawing which showed the screen transition of the operation panel by the process of the flowchart shown by FIG. FIG. 11 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a Web panel of each multifunction peripheral displayed in step S112. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing (setting call processing) for calling a setting value of a multifunction peripheral related to a predetermined job and displaying the setting value of a selected setting item on a corresponding Web panel. It is a flowchart which shows the continuation of FIG. It is explanatory drawing which showed the screen transition of the operation panel by the process of the flowchart shown by FIG. 8 and FIG. It is a flowchart which shows a setting value specific process. 10 is a flowchart illustrating processing (image quality improvement processing) for calling a setting value related to image quality of each multifunction device and changing the setting value using a corresponding Web panel. It is explanatory drawing which showed the screen transition of the operation panel by the process of the flowchart shown by FIG.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings.

  FIG. 1 shows a schematic diagram of an electronic device setting system 5 according to an embodiment of the present invention. The electronic device setting system 5 can communicate with a PC (Personal Computer) 10 as an electronic device setting device and a plurality of multifunction devices 40 as electronic devices through a wireless or wired network such as a LAN (Local Area Network) 3. Connected to and configured.

  The PC 10 is a computer device such as a terminal that manages the multifunction device 40. In particular, the PC 10 sets each multifunction device 40 based on an operation on a Web panel displayed by communicating with the multifunction device 40.

  The multi-function device 40 is a copy job that optically reads a document and prints a duplicate image on a recording paper, a scan job that stores image data of the read document as a file, or sends it to an external device, and sends it from a PC. A function for executing a job such as a print job for printing an image related to the data on a recording sheet and outputting it, and a facsimile transmission job for transmitting image data in accordance with a facsimile procedure is provided. Each multifunction device 40 has a function (Web panel function) for transmitting data for displaying a Web panel on the PC 10 to the PC 10.

  In the present embodiment, each multifunction device 40 transmits data for causing the PC 10 to display a Web panel having a different user interface. The user interface of the Web panel is different, for example, the arrangement and shape of buttons and tabs displayed on the Web panel, the names of setting items to be set via the Web panel, and the setting items to be displayed on the Web panel The hierarchical structure is different for each multifunction device 40.

  FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing a schematic configuration of the PC 10 as the electronic device setting device according to the embodiment of the present invention. The PC 10 has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11 that comprehensively controls the operation of the PC 10. A ROM (Read Only Memory) 12, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 13, a nonvolatile memory 14, a hard disk device 15, a network communication unit 16, an operation panel 20, an authentication unit 23, and the like are connected to the CPU 11 through a bus.

  The CPU 11 is based on an OS (Operating System) program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 12, and each function of the PC 10 is realized by the CPU 11 executing various processes according to these programs.

  The RAM 13 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 11 executes processing based on a program.

  The nonvolatile memory 14 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information.

  The hard disk device 15 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores various programs and data. Further, the hard disk device 15 stores a Web panel application 30 and a setting call tool 31 (see FIG. 3) which will be described later.

  The network communication unit 16 has a function of communicating with various devices, portable terminals, and the like through a network. In particular, the network communication unit 16 receives data for displaying the Web panel of each multifunction device 40 and transmits a job, a setting instruction for a specific setting item, and the like to each multifunction device 40. The network communication unit 16 also functions as a setting value acquisition unit that acquires setting values of a plurality of multifunction devices 40 from each multifunction device 40 by communicating with each multifunction device 40.

  The operation panel 20 includes an operation unit 21 and a display unit 22. The display unit 22 functions to display various operation screens, setting screens, and the like. The display unit 22 includes a liquid crystal display and its driver. The operation unit 21 functions to receive various operations from the user. The operation unit 21 includes various hard switches such as a start button and a numeric keypad, and a touch screen provided on the display surface of the display unit 22. The touch screen detects a coordinate position where the display surface of the display unit 22 is touched with a touch pen or a finger.

  In particular, the display unit 22 displays the Web panel based on the data for displaying the Web panel received from each multifunction device 40. In addition, the operation unit 21 receives an operation on the displayed Web panel when the display unit 22 displays the Web panel.

  The authentication unit 23 authenticates a user who uses the PC 10. As for user authentication, for example, the authentication unit 23 performs user authentication based on information (ID, password, etc.) necessary for user authentication input to the PC 10 by the user.

  FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram for explaining the Web panel application 30 and the setting call tool 31 stored in the PC 10.

  The web panel application 30 is an application for causing the operation panel 20 to display the web panel of each multifunction device 40. When the PC 10 receives data for displaying the web panel of each multifunction device 40 from each multifunction device 40, the PC 10 causes the web panel application 30 to display the web panel of each multifunction device 40 on the operation panel 20.

  These Web panels have the same user interface as the setting screen displayed on the operation panel 48 (see FIG. 4) of the multi-function device 40. Accordingly, the user can operate the Web panel displayed on the PC 10 in the same manner as the setting screen displayed on the operation panel 48 of the multifunction device 40.

  The setting call tool 31 is a tool for calling a setting value set in each multifunction device 40 and assisting in confirming a difference between setting values of the plurality of multifunction devices 40 and changing the setting value. The setting call tool 31 includes a related table 32, a setting call function 33, a job list display instruction function 34, a set value difference display function 35, an image quality category selection function 36, an image quality category setting display instruction function 37, and an image quality. And a guide display function 38.

  The association table 32 is a table for identifying setting items to be compared from all setting items of each multifunction device 40. The association table 32 stores a keyword for specifying a setting item to be compared for setting and a setting item of each multifunction device 40 in association with each other. When a predetermined keyword is input, the setting item related to the keyword is specified with reference to the related table 32.

  The setting call function 33 calls a setting value of a predetermined setting item from each multi-function device 40 as a setting value acquisition unit by an operation from the user, and further, a Web panel corresponding to the predetermined setting item as a display control unit. , And a function to display on the operation panel 20 together with the called set value.

  The job list display instruction function 34 has a function of calling a list (job list) of jobs input to each multifunction device 40 for each multifunction device 40 and displaying the job list on the operation panel 20 as a display control unit. .

  The setting value difference display function 35 functions as a comparison unit to compare the setting values of the same setting items of each MFP 40 called by the setting call function 33 and detect a difference between the setting values of the setting items. Have. Further, the set value difference display function 35 has a function of causing the operation panel 20 to display the set value and the set item in which the difference is detected as a display control unit when the set value difference is detected.

  The image quality category selection function 36 receives selection of a category (for example, density, contrast, brightness, etc.) related to the image quality of an image formed when the multi-function device 40 executes a print job or the like via the operation unit 21. It has a function.

  The image quality category setting display instruction function 37 has a function of displaying a Web panel for adjusting the setting value of the setting item corresponding to the category selected using the image quality category selection function 36 as a display control unit.

  The image quality guide display function 38 has a function of displaying guidance for adjusting setting values of setting items relating to image quality as a display control unit.

  FIG. 4 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of the multi-function device 40. The multi-function device 40 has a CPU 41 that comprehensively controls the operation of the multi-function device 40. The CPU 41 includes a ROM 42, a RAM 43, a nonvolatile memory 44, a hard disk device 45, an image reading unit 46, an automatic document feeder (ADF) 47, an operation panel 48, a network communication unit 52, an image processing unit 53, and a printer. A unit 54, a facsimile communication unit 55, an authentication unit 56, and the like are connected.

  The CPU 41 is based on the OS program, and executes middleware, application programs, and the like. Further, the CPU 41 creates data for displaying the Web panel of the own device on the operation panel 20 of the PC 10.

  Various programs are stored in the ROM 42, and each function of the multi-function device 40 is realized by the CPU 41 executing various processes in accordance with these programs.

  The RAM 43 is used as a work memory for temporarily storing various data when the CPU 41 executes processing based on a program, an image memory for storing image data, and the like.

  The nonvolatile memory 44 is a memory (flash memory) whose stored contents are not destroyed even when the power is turned off, and is used for storing various setting information. In particular, the nonvolatile memory 44 stores setting values of various setting items of the own device.

  The hard disk device 45 is a large-capacity nonvolatile storage device, and stores various programs and data in addition to print data and image data. The hard disk device 45 stores a list of jobs submitted to the own device.

  The image reading unit 46 functions to optically read a document and acquire image data. The image reading unit 46 sequentially, for example, a light source that irradiates light on a document, a line image sensor that receives the reflected light for one line in the width direction, and a line-by-line reading position in the length direction of the document. An optical path composed of a moving unit for moving, a lens, a mirror, and the like for guiding reflected light from the document to the line image sensor to form an image, and a conversion unit for converting an analog image signal output from the line image sensor into digital image data And so on.

  The automatic document feeder 47 feeds the document set on the document table one by one from the uppermost one in order, passes the reading position of the image reading unit 46, and discharges it to a predetermined discharge position. Fulfill. The image reading unit 46 has a function of reading a document placed on the platen glass and a function of sequentially reading a document conveyed by the automatic document conveyance unit 47.

  The operation panel 48 includes an operation unit 49 and a display unit 50. The display unit 50 functions to display various operation screens, setting screens, and the like, and the configuration thereof is the same as that of the display unit 22 of the operation panel 20 provided in the PC 10. In the present embodiment, the user interface such as the operation screen and the setting screen displayed by the display unit 50 is the same user interface as the Web panel of the own apparatus to be displayed on the operation panel 20 of the PC 10. The operation unit 49 functions to receive various operations from the user, and the configuration thereof is the same as that of the operation unit 21 of the operation panel 20 provided in the PC 10.

  The network communication unit 52 has a function of communicating with various devices, portable terminals, and the like through a network. In particular, the network communication unit 52 communicates with the PC 10, transmits data for displaying the Web panel of the own device to the PC 10, and receives a setting request for the own device from the PC 10. In addition, when the multi-function device 40 receives a setting call request from the PC 10, the network communication unit 52 functions to transmit the setting value of the setting item specified in the setting call request to the PC 10.

  The image processing unit 53 performs processing such as image enlargement / reduction, rotation, rasterization processing for converting print data into image data, image data compression / decompression processing, and the like.

  The printer unit 54 has a function of forming an image corresponding to image data on a recording sheet. Here, it has a recording paper transport device, a photosensitive drum, a charging device, a laser unit, a developing device, a transfer separation device, a cleaning device, and a fixing device, and forms an image by an electrophotographic process. It is configured as a so-called laser printer. Other methods may be used for image formation.

  The facsimile communication unit 55 performs a function of transmitting / receiving image data to / from a device having a facsimile function through a telephone line. In particular, the facsimile communication unit 55 transmits image data to another apparatus having a facsimile function by executing a facsimile transmission job set in the own apparatus.

  The authentication unit 56 authenticates a user who uses the multifunction device 40. The authentication method may be any method using a password, fingerprint, vein, or the like.

  Next, an example of a schematic operation of the electronic device setting system 5 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  FIG. 5 is a flowchart showing processing (setting call processing) for calling the setting value of each multifunction device 40 and displaying the setting value of the selected setting item on the corresponding Web panel. FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram showing screen transition of the operation panel 20 by the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, when receiving an instruction for starting the setting call tool 31 from the user, the PC 10 starts the setting call tool (step S101 in FIG. 5). When the setting call tool 31 is activated, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display an IP address input screen 60 for inputting the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 to be compared for setting as shown in FIG. It is displayed on the operation panel 20. The IP address input screen 60 is provided with two IP address input fields 61 and a connection button 62.

  When the PC 10 receives the input of the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 to be compared for setting and the pressing of the connection button 62 from the user (step S102 in FIG. 5), the input IP address is assigned. The MFP 40 is communicably connected (step S103; Yes). Then, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display the setting item input screen 70 on the operation panel 20 as shown in FIG. 6B (step S104 in FIG. 5). The setting item input screen 70 is provided with a keyword input field 71.

  The keyword to be input to the keyword input field 71 is setting item specifying information for specifying a setting item to be set and compared among all setting items of each multifunction device 40. Examples of the keyword include “print”, “scan”, and “image quality”.

  When the PC 10 receives an input of a predetermined keyword from the user and further receives a press of the OK button 72 (step S105; Yes), the PC 10 refers to the related table 32 (FIG. 6C) and relates to the keyword. The setting item to be specified is specified (step S106 in FIG. 5). For example, when “image quality” is input as a predetermined keyword, setting items such as “density”, “contrast”, and “brightness” related to “image quality” are specified.

  Thereafter, the PC 10 calls the setting value of the setting item specified in step S106 from each multi-function device 40 that is communicably connected in step S103 (step S107).

  Then, the PC 10 compares the setting values of the same setting item in each MFP 40 called in step S107 by the setting value difference display function 35, and determines whether or not there is a difference between the setting values ( Step S108). When it is determined that there is no difference in the setting values in all the setting items specified in step S106 (step S108; No), the operation panel 20 displays that there is no difference in the setting values of the specified setting items. Above (step S109), this process is terminated.

  When the PC 10 determines that there is a difference between the setting values (step S108; Yes), the setting value difference display function 35 causes the list display screen of setting items having a difference in the setting values as shown in FIG. 80 is displayed on the operation panel 20 (step S110 in FIG. 5).

  When the PC 10 accepts the selection of one setting item from the displayed list (step S111; Yes), the Web panel of each multifunction device 40 corresponding to the selected setting item as shown in FIG. 6E. 90 and 100 are displayed together with the set values set in each multifunction device 40 (step S112 in FIG. 5).

  FIG. 7 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the Web panel of each multifunction device 40 displayed in step S112. In the case of FIG. 7, a list of setting items having different setting values is displayed, and the setting item “edge emphasis” is selected in step S111, and the Web panel of each MFP 40 corresponding to “edge emphasis” is displayed. Has been.

  When the PC 10 accepts a change in the setting value of one multifunction device 40 from the user (step S113; Yes), the PC 10 instructs the multifunction device 40 to change the setting value based on the changed setting value (step S113). S114).

  Thereafter, when the PC 10 receives a web panel update instruction from the multi-function device 40, the PC 10 displays the updated web panel whose setting value has been changed on the operation panel 20 (step S115), and ends this process.

  As a result, it is possible to easily check the difference between the set values of the two multifunction devices 40 and change the set values.

  Next, another example of the schematic operation of the electronic device setting system 5 according to the present embodiment will be described.

  FIGS. 8 and 9 are flowcharts showing processing (setting call processing) for calling the setting value of the multi-function device 40 related to a predetermined job and displaying the setting value of the selected setting item on the corresponding Web panel. FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram showing screen transition of the operation panel 20 by the processing of the flowcharts shown in FIGS. 8 and 9.

  First, when receiving an instruction for starting the setting call tool 31 from the user, the PC 10 starts the setting call tool (step S201 in FIG. 8). When the setting call tool 31 is activated, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display an IP address input screen 60 for inputting the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 to be compared for setting as shown in FIG. It is displayed on the operation panel 20.

  When the PC 10 receives the input of the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 to be compared for setting and the pressing of the connection button 62 (step S202 in FIG. 8) from the user, the input IP address is assigned. The MFP 40 is communicably connected (step S203; Yes). Then, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display the setting item input screen 110 on the operation panel 20 as shown in FIG. 10A (step S204 in FIG. 8). In addition to the keyword input field 111, the setting item input screen 110 is provided with a job comparison button 112.

  When the PC 10 accepts the pressing of the job comparison button 112 (step S205; Yes), the multifunction peripherals connected in step S203 as shown in FIG. 10B by the job list display instruction function 34 of the setting call tool 31 are displayed. Web panels 120 and 121 indicating a list of jobs submitted to 40 are displayed on the operation panel 20 (step S206 in FIG. 8). This list includes jobs that have been executed, jobs that are being executed, jobs that are waiting to be executed, and the like.

  At this time, the user selects one job from the Web panel 120 (or Web panel 121), and performs a drag-and-drop operation to move the selected job to the Web panel 121 (or Web panel 120). Do. Upon receiving this drag and drop operation (step S207; Yes), the PC 10 performs a setting value specifying process (step S208).

  FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing the set value specifying process.

  First, the PC 10 specifies job information of a job selected from the drag and drop operation received in step S207 (step S301).

  Then, the PC 10 grasps the execution processing content of the job from the specified job information, and determines setting information related to the job (step S302). Here, the setting information related to the job is, for example, a setting item of a function used when executing the job, a setting value of the setting item currently set in each MFP 40, and the like. For example, when the job is a print job, setting items for print functions (for example, color / monochrome settings, paper settings, edge enhancement settings, etc.) and setting values for the print function setting items currently set for each multifunction device 40 (For example, color printing, A4 printing, edge enhancement ON, etc.) corresponds to the setting information related to the job.

  Thereafter, the PC 10 uses the setting call function 33 of the setting call tool 31 to set the multifunction device 40 to which the job selected at the drag and drop operation accepted in step S207 is input, and the job moved by the drag and drop operation. The MFP 40 corresponding to the Web panel that is the movement destination is instructed to transmit the setting information related to the job to the PC 10 (step S303).

  When the PC 10 receives the setting information related to the job (step S209 in FIG. 8; Yes), the setting value difference display function 35 compares the setting values of the same setting items in each MFP 40 from the setting information. Then, it is determined whether there is a difference between the set values (step S210). When it is determined that there is no difference in the setting values for all setting items related to the job (step S210; No), the operation panel 20 displays that there is no difference in the setting values of the setting items related to the job. After that (step S211), this process is terminated.

  When the PC 10 determines that there is a difference between the setting values (step S210; Yes), the setting value difference display function 35 causes the list display screen for setting items having a difference in the setting values as shown in FIG. 130 is displayed on the operation panel 20 (step S212 in FIG. 9).

  When the PC 10 accepts selection of one setting item from the displayed list (step S213; Yes), as shown in FIG. 11D, the Web panel of each MFP 40 corresponding to the selected setting item. 140 and 150 are displayed together with the set value set in each multifunction device 40 (step S214 in FIG. 9).

  When the PC 10 receives a change in the setting value of one multifunction device 40 from the user (step S215; Yes), the PC 10 instructs the multifunction device 40 to change the setting value based on the changed setting value (step S215). S216).

  Thereafter, when the PC 10 receives a web panel update instruction from the multi-function device 40, the PC 10 displays the updated web panel whose setting value has been changed on the operation panel 20 (step S217), and ends this process.

  As a result, when the same job is executed by two multifunction devices 40, it is possible to easily check the difference between the setting values related to the job in the multifunction devices 40 and change the setting values.

  Next, a schematic operation of the electronic device setting system 5 for changing setting values related to image quality in each multifunction device 40 will be described.

  When two or more multifunction devices 40 execute the same print job, generally, if the setting values of the functions used to execute the print job are the same in each multifunction device 40, the same printed matter is obtained. It is done.

  However, even if the setting values of the functions used for executing the print job are the same, the image quality of the printed matter may vary due to individual differences between the multifunction devices 40.

  Therefore, the electronic device setting system 5 according to the present embodiment performs processing for changing the setting related to the image quality for each multifunction device 40 when the individual difference as described above occurs.

  FIG. 12 is a flowchart showing processing (image quality improvement processing) for calling a setting value related to the image quality of each multifunction device 40 and changing the setting value using the corresponding Web panel. FIG. 13 is an explanatory diagram showing screen transition of the operation panel 20 by the processing of the flowchart shown in FIG.

  First, when receiving an instruction for starting the setting call tool 31 from the user, the PC 10 starts the setting call tool (step S401 in FIG. 12). When the setting call tool 31 is activated, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display an IP address input screen 60 for inputting the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 to be compared for setting as shown in FIG. It is displayed on the operation panel 20.

  When the PC 10 receives the input of the IP addresses of the two MFPs 40 that are the setting comparison targets and the pressing of the connection button 62 from the user (step S402 in FIG. 12), the input IP address is assigned. The MFP 40 is communicably connected (step S403; Yes). Then, the PC 10 causes the setting call tool 31 to display the setting item input screen 160 on the operation panel 20 as shown in FIG. 13A (step S404 in FIG. 12). In the setting item input screen 160, an image quality button 162 is provided in addition to the keyword input field 161.

  When the PC 10 accepts pressing of the image quality button 162 (step S405; Yes), the image quality category selection screen 170 is displayed on the operation panel 20 as shown in FIG. 13B (step S406 in FIG. 12).

  At this time, the PC 10 selects one of the pull-down menus 171 on the image quality category selection screen 170 from the user by the image quality category selection function 36 of the setting call tool 31 (“contrast” in the case of FIG. 13B). Then, pressing of the OK button 172 is accepted (step S407; Yes). Then, the PC 10 calls the setting values classified into the selected category by the setting call function 33 from each multi-function device 40 that is communicably connected in step S403 (step S408).

  Thereafter, the PC 10 uses the image quality category setting display instruction function 37 to set the Web panels 180 and 181 of each MFP 40 corresponding to the selected category to each MFP 40 as shown in FIG. 13C. Are displayed together with the set value (step S409 in FIG. 12).

  At the same time, the PC 10 causes the image quality guide display function 38 to display the setting guide screen 190 as shown in FIG. 13D (step S410).

  When the PC 10 accepts a change in the setting value of one multifunction device 40 from the user (step S411; Yes), the PC 10 instructs the multifunction device 40 to change the setting value based on the changed setting value (step S411). S412).

  Thereafter, when the PC 10 receives a web panel update instruction from the multi-function device 40, the PC 10 displays the updated web panel whose setting value has been changed on the operation panel 20 (step S413), and ends this process.

  As a result, when two or more MFPs 40 execute the same print job, setting values related to image quality can be easily set even if the image quality of printed matter may vary due to individual differences between MFPs 40. Can be changed.

  The embodiment of the present invention has been described with reference to the drawings. However, the specific configuration is not limited to that shown in the embodiment, and there are changes and additions within the scope of the present invention. Are also included in the present invention.

  In the present embodiment, the setting values of these multifunction devices 40 are compared and changed by connecting to two multifunction devices 40, but three or more multifunction devices may be set and compared.

  In the present embodiment, the multi-function device 40 displays Web panels having different user interfaces on the PC 10, but a plurality of electronic devices may display the same user interface on the electronic device setting device. .

  Further, in this embodiment, when the MFP 40 to be compared for setting and the PC 10 are connected, the IP address of the MFP 40 to be compared for setting is input. If so, the name, ID number, model number, etc. of each multifunction device 40 may be used. Further, when inputting information specifying the multi-function device 40, the information may be input using a pull-down menu or the like.

  Similarly, in this embodiment, a keyword is input as the setting item specifying information in step S105. However, the setting item specifying information may be input using a pull-down menu that lists several types of setting items.

  In FIG. 10B, the selected job is moved by a drag-and-drop operation to compare / change the setting values of the setting items related to the job. The type of operation is not limited as long as two or more target multifunction devices 40 can be specified.

  In the present embodiment, the electronic device is described as the multifunction device 40. However, the electronic device is configured to display a Web panel on the electronic device setting apparatus, and a plurality of electronic devices to be compared have common setting items. If so, the type of electronic device such as a copier or a facsimile machine is not limited.

  In addition, the present invention may be a program that causes an information processing apparatus to function as an electronic device setting apparatus.

5. Electronic device setting system 3. LAN
10 ... PC
11 ... CPU
12 ... ROM
13 ... RAM
DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 14 ... Nonvolatile memory 15 ... Hard disk device 16 ... Network communication part 20 ... Operation panel 21 ... Operation part 22 ... Display part 23 ... Authentication part 30 ... Web panel application 31 ... Setting call tool 32 ... Related table 33 ... Setting call function 34 ... Job list display instruction function 35 ... Setting value difference display function 36 ... Image quality category selection function 37 ... Image quality category setting display instruction function 38 ... Image quality guide display function 40 ... Multifunction device 41 ... CPU
42 ... ROM
43 ... RAM
44 ... Non-volatile memory 45 ... Hard disk device 46 ... Image reading part 47 ... Automatic document conveying part 48 ... Operation panel 49 ... Operation part 50 ... Display part 52 ... Network communication part 53 ... Image processing part 54 ... Printer part 55 ... Facsimile communication part 56 ... Authentication unit 60 ... IP address input screen 61 ... IP address input field 62 ... Connection button 70 ... Setting item input screen 71 ... Keyword input field 72 ... OK button 80 ... List display screen 90 ... Web panel 100 ... Web panel 110 ... Setting item input screen 111 ... Keyword input field 112 ... Job comparison button 120 ... Web panel 121 ... Web panel 130 ... List display screen 140 ... Web panel 150 ... Web panel 160 ... Setting item input screen 161 ... Keyword input field 162 ... Image quality button 170 ... Picture Category selection screen 171 ... pull-down menu 172 ... OK button 180 ... Web panel 181 ... Web panel 190 ... Setup Guide screen

Claims (8)

A display unit for displaying Web panels of a plurality of electronic devices;
A setting value acquisition unit for acquiring setting values of the plurality of electronic devices from each electronic device;
A comparison unit that compares the setting value of the electronic device acquired by the setting value acquisition unit for each setting item, and detects the setting item of the setting value that is different between the electronic devices;
An operation unit that accepts selection of one setting item among setting items of a setting value having a difference detected by the comparison unit;
A display control unit that displays each Web panel corresponding to the one setting item received by the operation unit on the display unit together with a setting value of the one setting item;
Have
The electronic device setting device, wherein the operation unit receives a change in a setting value of the one setting item. The display control unit
Display a list of setting items of the setting values having a difference on the display unit;
When the operation unit receives selection of the one setting item from the list, each Web panel corresponding to the one setting item is displayed on the display unit together with a setting value of the one setting item. The electronic device setting device according to claim 1. The operation unit receives setting item specifying information for specifying a setting item of a setting value to be compared by the comparison unit,
The comparison unit compares a setting value of a setting item specified by the setting item specifying information for each setting item, and detects a setting value having a difference between the electronic devices. Or the electronic device setting apparatus of 2. The electronic device setting device according to claim 3, wherein the setting item specifying information is a keyword. The set value acquisition unit sets a set value of a setting item related to a function of each electronic device used to execute a job input to any one of the plurality of electronic devices. Get from
The comparison unit compares a setting value of a setting item of each electronic device related to the function for each setting item, and detects a setting value having a difference between the electronic devices. 3. The electronic device setting device according to 1 or 2. The electronic device setting device according to claim 5, wherein the job is selected from a job list of each electronic device. The setting value acquisition unit acquires a setting value of an image quality setting item related to the image quality of the printing function of the electronic device,
The operation unit accepts selection of one image quality setting item among the image quality setting items,
The display control unit displays each Web panel corresponding to the one image quality setting item that has been selected by the operation unit on the display unit together with a setting value of the image quality setting item, and further, the one image quality setting A setting guide for setting the setting value of the item is displayed on the display unit,
The electronic device setting device according to claim 1, wherein the operation unit receives a change in a setting value of the one image quality setting item.   The information processing apparatus includes: a display unit that displays a web panel of a plurality of electronic devices; and an operation unit that receives an operation on the web panel displayed on the display unit. A program that causes the electronic device setting device according to any one of 7 to function.