JP4244910B2 - Image processing system and image processing apparatus - Google Patents

Description

The present invention relates an image processing apparatus, an image processing system composed of a service providing apparatus for providing image processing services according to the request from the image processing apparatus, and image processing equipment.

  Conventionally, as an image processing system including an image processing apparatus and a service providing apparatus that provides an image processing service according to a request from the image processing apparatus, a program that realizes an image processing function is stored and held on the service providing apparatus side. A system for transmitting the program from the service providing apparatus to the image processing apparatus in accordance with a request from the image processing apparatus is known. In such a system, it is necessary to install a program downloaded from the service providing apparatus on the image processing apparatus side, and a storage area for that purpose is required. In addition, when a function is added to the service providing apparatus, there is a problem that a program for realizing the function cannot be installed in the image processing apparatus due to insufficient storage area capacity or the capacity of the storage area needs to be increased. Conceivable.

On the other hand, a system has been proposed in which an image processing function is provided on the service providing apparatus side and image processing is performed on the service providing apparatus side in accordance with a request from the image processing apparatus (see Patent Document 1).
This system is configured so that the types of image processing that can be executed by the service providing apparatus are displayed on the image processing apparatus and can be selected from the image processing apparatus. Then, when the image processing that the user wants to execute is selected on the image processing apparatus side, the image processing execution command is transmitted to the service providing apparatus together with the image information, and the image processing is executed on the service providing apparatus side.

Therefore, according to this latter system, a large-capacity storage area for installing the program is not required in the image processing apparatus, and the system can be configured at a lower cost than the former system. In addition, the load on the image processing apparatus can be reduced.
JP-A-9-238215

  However, in the latter system described above, information for selecting an image processing service and information regarding parameters of the image processing service are transmitted from the service providing apparatus to the image processing apparatus for display, and input from the user. There is a need. When a system is configured with a plurality of image processing devices, if the specifications of the display units of the image processing devices are the same, information transmitted from the service providing device can be appropriately displayed on each image processing device. If the specifications of the display unit of the processing device are different, the information may not be displayed depending on the image processing device, or display information needs to be created for each image processing device.

  The present invention has been made in view of these problems, and constitutes a system in an image processing system including an image processing apparatus and a service providing apparatus that provides an image processing service in accordance with a request from the image processing apparatus. An object of the present invention is to display information necessary for executing image processing provided from a service providing apparatus on each image processing apparatus even when specifications of display units of a plurality of image processing apparatuses are different.

In order to achieve the above object, the invention according to claim 1 includes a plurality of image processing apparatuses that read image data or form an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
For each image processing service that can be provided to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means for storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing;
Upon receiving a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus, a desired image processing service is selected from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side based on service definition information stored in the definition information storage unit. Service menu information transmitting means for generating service menu information required for selecting and returning the service menu information to the image processing device;
After the service menu information transmission means transmits the service menu information, when receiving the execution command of a particular image processing service from the image processing apparatus, comprising: a service execution unit to perform the commanded image processing service, and
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the selection request of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, a service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information,
A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. Service menu image display control means for displaying,
When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means,
While the service menu image display control means displays the service menu image, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the image processing service activation means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deletion means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition means from the service providing device to display the service menu image after transmission ,
Moreover, the service menu information the service menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus, the irrespective of the specification of the display unit of the image processing apparatus, wherein each of the image processing apparatus of the service menu image display control section By the above operation, the data structure is capable of displaying a menu image on the display means.

  Examples of the “image processing apparatus” herein include an image printing apparatus (printer apparatus), an image reading apparatus (scanner apparatus), a facsimile apparatus, and a multifunction machine having these functions. The “service providing apparatus” can be configured as a server on a network, for example.

In the image processing system according to claim 1, configured as described above, when the image processing service selection request is transmitted from the image processing apparatus to the service providing apparatus, the service menu information transmitting means of the service providing apparatus defines Based on the service definition information stored in the information storage means, the image processing apparatus generates service menu information required for selecting a specific image processing service from a plurality of image processing services, and transmits a selection request. To the image processing apparatus.

Then, the image processing apparatus which acquires the service menu information, the service menu information acquisition unit acquires the service menu information, the service menu image display control means, based on the service menu information, on the display means, the image A service menu image for selecting a processing service is displayed. For this reason, the user can select an image processing service to be executed by the service providing apparatus by operating the operation means while viewing the service menu image.

In addition, when an image processing service is selected on the image processing apparatus side in this way, the image processing service starting unit transmits an execution command for the selected image processing service to the service providing apparatus, whereby the service providing apparatus The service execution unit executes the image processing service selected by the user, and the service menu information deletion unit deletes the service menu information.

Therefore, according to the image processing system of the first aspect, the image is provided from the service providing apparatus so that the image processing provided by the service providing apparatus can be executed on the image processing apparatus side as in the prior art. It is not necessary to distribute the image processing program to the processing apparatus, and it is not necessary to install a large-capacity memory for storing the program on the image processing apparatus side. Therefore, according to the present invention, the configuration of the image processing apparatus can be simplified and the image processing apparatus can be realized at low cost. In addition, by causing the image processing apparatus to execute new image processing, it is possible to prevent a problem that the load on the control device (generally a microcomputer) provided in the image processing apparatus increases and the time required for image processing increases. You can also.

In the image processing system according to claim 1, the service menu information for image processing service selection transmitted from the service providing apparatus to the image processing apparatus is independent of the specification of the display means of each image processing apparatus, Since the service menu image display control means on the image processing device side has a data structure capable of displaying the service menu image on the display means, the service providing device side displays the service menu information on the specification of the display means. Therefore, it is not necessary to generate the image processing apparatus according to the specification of the display means for each different image processing apparatus, and the processing burden on the service providing apparatus side can be reduced. Furthermore, when a desired image processing service is selected from the service menu image, the service menu information for displaying the service menu image is deleted, so that memory resources can be saved.

Next, the invention described in claim 2 includes a plurality of image processing apparatuses that read image data or form an image on a recording medium based on the image data,
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs an image processing service for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
Parameter information storage means for storing parameter information representing various parameters necessary to execute the image processing service;
When receiving an image processing service execution command from the image processing apparatus, the image processing apparatus inputs various parameters necessary for the execution of the image processing service based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage means. Parameter menu information transmitting means for generating the parameter menu information required for sending back to the image processing apparatus,
After the said parameter menu information transmitting means has transmitted the parameter menu information, acquires the parameters necessary to carry out the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, service execution performs the image processing services in accordance with the acquired parameter Means,
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the execution instruction of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, and parameter menu information obtaining means for obtaining the parameter menu information,
A parameter menu image display control means for displaying the parameters menu image required to enter the parameters by the parameter menu information acquisition unit based on the acquired parameter menu information, the user operates the operating means,
During the display of the parameter menu image by said parameter menu image display control means, when the parameters when executing the image processing service to the service providing apparatus via the operation unit is determined, the determined parameters An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing device for display , and
Moreover, the parameter menu information the parameter menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus, the irrespective of the specification of the display unit of the image processing apparatus, the parameter menu image display control section of the image processing apparatus It is a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means by operation.

In the image processing system according to claim 2, configured as described above, the execution command for the image processing service from the image processing apparatus to the service providing apparatus is transmitted, the parameter a menu information transmitting means of the service providing apparatus, the parameters Based on the parameter information stored in the information storage means, the image processing apparatus generates parameter menu information required to input parameters necessary for executing the image processing service, and sends the selection request to the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the selection request. Send.

Then, the image processing apparatus that acquires the parameter menu information, the parameter menu information obtaining means obtains the parameter menu information, the parameter menu image display control means, based on the parameter menu information, on the display means, using A parameter menu image required for the user to input parameters is displayed. Therefore, the user can input parameters necessary for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service by operating the operation means while viewing the parameter menu image.

In addition, when parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service are input on the image processing apparatus side in this way, the image processing service activation unit transmits the input parameters to the service providing apparatus, thereby providing the service. The service execution unit of the apparatus executes the image processing service, and the parameter menu information deletion unit deletes the parameter menu information.

  Therefore, according to the image processing system of the second aspect, the image is provided from the service providing apparatus so that the image processing provided by the service providing apparatus can be executed on the image processing apparatus side as in the prior art. It is not necessary to distribute the image processing program to the processing apparatus, and it is not necessary to install a large-capacity memory for storing the program on the image processing apparatus side. Therefore, according to the present invention, like the image processing system according to the first aspect, the configuration of the image processing apparatus can be simplified and the image processing apparatus can be realized at low cost. Further, by causing the image processing apparatus to execute new image processing, it is possible to prevent the problem that the load on the control device (generally a microcomputer) provided in the image processing apparatus increases and the time required for image processing increases. You can also.

In the image processing system according to claim 2, the parameter menu information for parameter input transmitted from the service providing apparatus to the image processing apparatus is independent of the specifications of the display means of each image processing apparatus. Since the data structure is such that the menu image can be displayed on the display means by the operation of the parameter menu image display control means on the image processing device side, the parameter menu information is displayed on the service providing device side as an image with different specifications of the display means. It is not necessary to generate each processing apparatus according to the specifications of the display means, and the processing burden on the service providing apparatus side can be reduced. Further, when a parameter for executing the image processing service is input through the parameter menu image and confirmed, the parameter menu information for displaying the parameter menu image is deleted. Resources can be saved.

Next, the invention according to claim 3 is a plurality of image processing apparatuses that read image data or form an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
For each image processing service that can be provided to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means for storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing;
Parameter information storage means for storing parameter information representing various parameters necessary to execute the image processing service;
Upon receiving a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus, a desired image processing service is selected from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side based on service definition information stored in the definition information storage unit. Service menu information transmitting means for generating service menu information required for selecting and returning the service menu information to the image processing device;
After the service menu information transmitting means transmits the service menu information, upon receiving an execution command for a specific image processing service from the image processing apparatus, the image processing is performed based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage means. Parameter menu information transmitting means for generating parameter menu information required for inputting various parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service on the apparatus side and returning the parameter menu information to the image processing apparatus;
After the said parameter menu information transmitting means has transmitted the parameter menu information, acquires the parameters necessary to carry out the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, service execution performs the image processing services in accordance with the acquired parameter Means,
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the selection request of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, a service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information,
A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. Service menu image display control means for displaying,
When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. Accordingly, a parameter menu information obtaining means for obtaining the parameter menu information,
While the service menu image is displayed by the service menu image display control means, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the parameter menu information acquisition means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deleting means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquiring means from the service providing device to display the service menu image after transmission;
A parameter menu image display control means for displaying the parameters menu image required to enter the parameters by the parameter menu information acquisition unit based on the acquired parameter menu information, the user operates the operating means,
During the display of the parameter menu image by said parameter menu image display control means, when the parameters when executing the image processing service to the service providing apparatus via the operation unit is determined, the determined parameters An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing device for display , and
Moreover, the service menu information service menu information and parameter menu information transmission means and parameter menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus, the irrespective of the specification of the display unit of the image processing apparatus, wherein the image processing apparatus The data structure is such that a menu image can be displayed on the display means by the operation of the service menu image display control means and the parameter menu image display control means on the side.

In the image processing system according to claim 3 configured as described above, when a request for selecting an image processing service is transmitted from the image processing apparatus to the service providing apparatus, the service menu information transmitting unit of the service providing apparatus defines Based on the service definition information stored in the information storage means, the image processing apparatus generates service menu information required for selecting a specific image processing service from a plurality of image processing services, and transmits a selection request. To the image processing apparatus.

Then, the image processing apparatus which acquires the service menu information, the service menu information acquisition unit acquires the service menu information, the service menu image display control means, based on the service menu information, on the display means, the image A service menu image for selecting a processing service is displayed. For this reason, the user can select an image processing service to be executed by the service providing apparatus by operating the operation means while viewing the service menu image.

When the image processing service is selected on the image processing apparatus side in this way, the parameter menu information acquisition means transmits an execution command for the selected image processing service to the service providing apparatus, and the service menu information deletion means Deletes the service menu information.

Then, when an image processing service execution command is transmitted from the image processing apparatus to the service providing apparatus, the parameter menu information transmitting unit of the service providing apparatus is based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage unit. The parameter menu information required for inputting the parameters necessary for executing the image processing service on the side is generated and transmitted to the image processing apparatus that has transmitted the selection request.

Then, on the image processing apparatus side, the parameter menu information acquisition unit acquires the parameter menu information, and the parameter menu image display control unit inputs the parameter to the display unit based on the parameter menu information. Displays the parameter menu image required for. Therefore, the user can input parameters necessary for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service by operating the operation means while viewing the parameter menu image.

In addition, when parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service are input on the image processing apparatus side in this way, the image processing service activation unit transmits the input parameters to the service providing apparatus, thereby providing the service. The service execution unit of the apparatus executes the image processing service, and the parameter menu information deletion unit deletes the parameter menu information.

Therefore, according to the image processing system of the third aspect, the image is provided from the service providing apparatus so that the image processing provided by the service providing apparatus can be executed on the image processing apparatus side as in the prior art. It is not necessary to distribute the image processing program to the processing apparatus, and it is not necessary to install a large-capacity memory for storing the program on the image processing apparatus side. Therefore, according to the present invention, similar to the image processing system according to claims 1 and 2, the configuration of the image processing apparatus can be simplified and the image processing apparatus can be realized at low cost. In addition, by causing the image processing apparatus to execute new image processing, it is possible to prevent a problem that the load on the control device (generally a microcomputer) provided in the image processing apparatus increases and the time required for image processing increases. You can also.

In the image processing system according to claim 3, the service menu information or parameter menu information transmitted from the service providing apparatus to the image processing apparatus is independent of the specifications of the display means of each image processing apparatus, by the operation of the service menu image display control means or parameter menu image display control section of the image processing apparatus, since it is a data structure that can display a menu image on the display unit, the service providing apparatus, the service menu It is not necessary to generate information or parameter menu information according to the specifications of the display means for each image processing apparatus with different specifications of the display means, and the processing burden on the service providing apparatus side can be reduced. Further, when a desired image processing service is selected from the service menu image, service menu information for displaying the service menu image is deleted, and parameters for executing the image processing service are displayed via the parameter menu image. The parameter menu information for displaying the parameter menu image is deleted when it is entered and confirmed, so that memory resources can be saved.

Next, the invention according to claim 4 is the image processing system according to claim 2 or claim 3, wherein the parameter information storage means includes the parameter information preset in the service providing apparatus, Parameter information acquired from the image processing apparatus connected via a network is stored.

5. The image processing system according to claim 4, wherein the parameter information storage means included in the service supply means represents various parameters necessary for executing the preset image processing service. In addition to the parameter information, parameter information acquired from the image processing apparatus can also be stored.

  The parameter information may include information unique to each image processing device, such as information about image resolution that can be handled by the image processing device, information about a language that the image processing device supports.

Therefore, the parameter menu information transmitting unit included in the service providing apparatus can generate parameter menu information corresponding to the image processing apparatus. That is, for example, useless processing such as generating menu information in a language not supported by the image processing apparatus can be omitted, so that the time required for executing the service can be shortened. Moreover, the load concerning processing can be reduced.

  Next, according to a fifth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing system according to any one of the first to fourth aspects, the service providing apparatus includes a plurality of servers connected via the network. The units constituting the service providing apparatus are distributed and arranged in the servers.

When a plurality of image processing apparatuses are connected via a network as in the system according to claim 1, a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus to the service providing apparatus, an image When processing service execution instructions are concentrated, the service providing apparatus needs to execute the processes corresponding to them in series or sequentially, which takes time. In view of this, in the image processing system according to the fifth aspect, the units provided in the service providing apparatus are arranged in a distributed manner so that the image processing service can be executed efficiently. Further, for example, if a server provided with a means for performing processing with a large load is provided exclusively or a plurality of servers are provided to distribute the load, the time required to execute the image processing service can be shortened. Furthermore, if the means are distributed and arranged, resources on the network can be used more effectively.

Next, according to a sixth aspect of the present invention, in the image processing system according to the first aspect or the third to fifth aspects, the service execution unit of the service providing apparatus performs image processing to be performed. built individually for each service, a plurality of service supply means granted identifiable identification information over the network,
The service menu information transmitting means or parameter menu information transmitting means gives the service menu information or parameter menu information identification information representing the service execution means to which an execution command or parameter of the image processing service is to be transmitted, Configured to send,
In each of the image processing devices,
The image processing service starting means, when transmitting an execution command or parameter of the image processing service, specifies a destination service supply means based on identification information given to the service menu information or parameter menu information. ,
It is characterized by.

  That is, when the service providing apparatus can provide a plurality of image processing services as in the image processing system according to claim 1 or claims 3 to 5, If there is one service execution means for performing data communication and executing an image processing service, even if there are requests for image processing services from a plurality of image processing apparatuses, the image processing services are executed in series, or Therefore, it is necessary to execute each image processing apparatus in order, and it takes time to execute the image processing service.

  Therefore, in the image processing system according to claim 6, the service execution unit is configured by a plurality of service supply units to which identification information is added, thereby setting a plurality of image processing services provided by the service providing apparatus. However, the time required to execute the image processing service can be shortened by enabling each service to be executed individually by each service supply means.

Then, according to this system, when the image processing service activation means of the image processing apparatus side, and transmits the execution command or parameter of the image processing services to execute desired image processing service to the service execution unit the service Since the destination service supply means is specified based on the identification information given to the menu information or the parameter menu information, the user can cause the service supply means to quickly execute a desired image processing service. It becomes.

Next, according to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the image processing system according to any one of the second to fifth aspects, the parameter menu information transmitting unit includes:
Menu information in a selection format for displaying a menu image for displaying parameters candidates on the display means and allowing the user to select a menu image;
Menu information in an input format for displaying a menu image for allowing a user to directly input a parameter value on the display means;
Any one of these types of menu information is generated and transmitted as the parameter menu information.

  According to the image processing system of the seventh aspect, when the service providing apparatus acquires the parameters necessary for executing the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, the image providing apparatus displays the parameters on the display unit of the image processing apparatus. The menu image can be set to either a selection format or an input format.

Therefore, it is possible to display a menu image that is convenient for the user by appropriately setting the format of the menu image according to the contents of the image processing service.
Next, an invention according to an eighth aspect is the image processing system according to the seventh aspect, wherein the parameter menu information transmitting unit transmits the menu information of the input format as the parameter menu information. Data restriction information indicating the maximum amount of data that can be set as the parameter is given to this menu information,
The parameter menu image display control means limits the data amount of parameters input from the operation means when the data restriction information is added to the parameter menu information.

  Therefore, according to the image processing system of the eighth aspect, since the upper limit of the parameter data amount that can be set on the image processing apparatus side can be set, the data amount transmitted from the image processing apparatus side to the service providing apparatus side The time required for data communication can be shortened. In addition, the load on the image processing apparatus and the service providing apparatus can be reduced.

By the way, in the present invention (Claims 1 to 8), the service menu information transmission unit and the parameter menu information transmission unit control the menu image display on the image processing apparatus regardless of the specifications of the display unit of each image processing apparatus. Any data structure that can display a menu image on the display means may be used depending on the operation of the means. To this end, even if the display area of the display means is small, information can be displayed efficiently. It is desirable to subdivide the menu information for each item.

  Then, in order to subdivide the menu information for each item in this way so that each item can be efficiently displayed on various display means having different display areas, each item is hierarchized as described in claim 9. It is desirable to keep it.

Accordingly, the invention according to claim 9 is the image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 8, wherein the service menu information transmitting unit or the parameter menu information transmitting unit of the service providing apparatus is the service As the menu information or parameter menu information, hierarchical data in which various items necessary for service selection or parameter input are described hierarchically from a higher item to a lower item is generated.

Therefore, according to the image processing system of the ninth aspect, when the menu image is displayed by the service menu image display control means or the parameter menu image display control means, from the user input via the operation means. By changing the display item on the display means from the upper item to the lower item or vice versa, the user can be presented with various menu items and input desired information. Can do.

In order to generate such hierarchical data, the service menu information or parameter menu information is described according to an XML (Extensible Markup Language) description method, as described in claim 10. It is good to do so.

  In other words, XML is a so-called “extensible markup language”, and it is easy to define (hierarchize) the data structure, so that it is hierarchical compared to other description methods such as HTML (HyperText Markup Language). Data can be easily generated.

In the image processing system according to claim 9 or claim 10, for example, as described in claim 11, the service menu information or parameter menu information is an item assigned to each hierarchical item. Identification information (Form_Data), display name information (Disp_Name) for displaying each item in an identifiable manner on the display means, and each data constituting reply information from the image processing apparatus side to the service providing apparatus side It is preferable to include at least one of data identification information (Value_Name).

That is, if item identification information (Form_Data) is provided in hierarchical data, the system administrator can easily recognize the data contents.
Moreover, if display name information (Disp_Name) is provided and displayed on the display means of the image processing apparatus, the menu screen is easy to use for the user.

Furthermore, if data identification information (Value_Name) is provided, data communication between the image processing apparatus and the service providing apparatus becomes easy.
On the other hand, in the present invention (claims 1 to 11), the service menu image display control means or the parameter menu image display control means is configured such that the service menu information acquisition means or the parameter menu information acquisition means receives service menu information from the service providing apparatus. Alternatively, once the parameter menu information is acquired, thereafter, the acquired menu information may be used to repeatedly display a menu image. In this case, service menu information acquisition means is provided in each image processing apparatus. Alternatively, a memory for storing the menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquisition unit from the service providing apparatus is required.

Therefore, according to the image processing system of the present invention (claims 1 to 11), as described in claim 12, in each of the image processing apparatuses, the service menu information acquisition unit or the parameter menu information acquisition unit includes: The service menu image display control means or the parameter menu image display control means is configured to acquire service menu information or parameter menu information from the service providing apparatus every time the service menu image or parameter menu image is displayed on the display means. Good.

  In other words, if the image processing system is configured in this way, menu information is acquired from the service providing apparatus each time the menu image is displayed on the display means, and thus the acquired menu information is stored. This eliminates the need for additional memory and makes it possible to use resources effectively.

Next, the invention according to claim 13 is the image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 12, wherein the definition information storage means or the parameter information storage means provided in the service providing device includes In the service menu information transmitting means or parameter menu information transmitting means, display language information for generating the service menu information or parameter menu information, respectively, in a plurality of different display languages is stored,
The service menu information transmitting unit or the parameter menu information transmitting unit displays the display stored in the definition information storing unit or the parameter information storing unit when a display language is designated from the service menu information acquiring unit or the parameter menu information acquiring unit. According to the language information, generate and send menu information corresponding to the specified display language,
In each of the image processing devices,
The service menu information acquisition means or parameter menu information acquisition means, when acquiring service menu information or parameter menu information from the service providing device, by transmitting language information representing a display language on the display device, Menu information corresponding to the display language is acquired from the service providing apparatus.

Therefore, according to the image processing system of the thirteenth aspect, the service providing device uses each image display device to display information as menu information on each display device. Menu information corresponding to the display language is provided. Therefore, according to this image processing system, even if the display language when displaying various information on the display means on each image processing apparatus side is different, the display means of each image processing apparatus is compatible with the display language. This makes it possible to display the menu image that has been made and to improve the user-friendliness.

Next, the invention described in claim 14 is a plurality of image processing apparatuses that read image data or form an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices; Consists of
For each image processing service that the service providing apparatus can provide to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing, and a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus Upon receipt, service menu information required for selecting a desired image processing service from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side is generated based on the service definition information stored in the definition information storage means And when the service menu information transmitting means for returning to the image processing apparatus and the service menu information transmitting means transmit the service menu information and then receiving an execution instruction for a specific image processing service from the image processing apparatus, Service execution means for performing an instructed image processing service,
Regardless of the specifications of the display means of each image processing apparatus, the service menu image display control means on the image processing apparatus side operates as the service menu information transmitted from the service menu information transmission means to the image processing apparatus. Is a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means.
An image processing apparatus in an image processing system, comprising:
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
Service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information by transmitting a request for selecting an image processing service to the service providing apparatus upon receiving a use instruction of the service providing apparatus via the operation means;
A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. A service menu image display control means for displaying
When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means,
While the service menu image display control means displays the service menu image, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the image processing service activation means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deleting means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquiring means from the service providing apparatus to display the service menu image after transmission.
An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

With the image processing apparatus of this, the present invention can realize the image processing system (claim 1), and in that the image processing system, can enjoy the image processing service provided by the service providing apparatus.
Next, the invention described in claim 15 includes a plurality of image processing apparatuses that read image data or form an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs an image processing service for image data handled by each of the image processing devices in accordance with a command from each of the image processing devices. Become
Various parameters necessary for the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service
Parameter information storage means storing parameter information representing the image information, and when receiving an image processing service execution command from the image processing apparatus, on the image processing apparatus side based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage means Parameter menu information transmitting means for generating parameter menu information required for inputting various parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service and returning the parameter menu information to the image processing apparatus, and the parameter menu information transmitting means transmits the parameter menu information. After obtaining parameters necessary for executing the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, service execution means for performing the image processing service according to the acquired parameters,
The parameter menu information transmitted from the parameter menu information transmitting unit to the image processing apparatus is determined by the operation of the parameter menu image display control unit on each image processing apparatus regardless of the specifications of the display unit of each image processing apparatus. And a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means.
An image processing apparatus in an image processing system, comprising:
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
A parameter menu information acquiring unit that acquires the parameter menu information by transmitting an execution command of an image processing service to the service providing device upon receiving a use command of the service providing device via the operation unit;
Parameter menu image display control means for displaying a parameter menu image required for a user to input the parameters by operating the operation means based on the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquisition means;
When parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation unit while the parameter menu image display control unit displays the parameter menu image, the determined parameters are An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing device for display.
An image processing apparatus characterized by the above.

With the image processing apparatus of this, the present invention can realize the image processing system (claim 2), and in the image processing system, Ru can enjoy image processing service provided by the service providing apparatus.

Embodiments to which the present invention is applied will be described below with reference to the drawings.
FIG. 1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment.
As shown in the figure, this image processing system includes a plurality (only one is shown in the figure) of a multifunction machine 10, a directory server 20, and a function server 30, which are connected to a network (in this embodiment). Wide area network such as the Internet (WAN: Wide Area)
Network)) 1 is connected to enable bidirectional communication. Specifically, the multifunction machine 10, the directory server 20, and the function server 30 are connected to the network 1 through routers 2, 3, and 4, respectively. Here, a known broadband router is used as the router 2 that relays between the multifunction machine 10 and the network 1. The broadband router 2 is in a state in which all ports are closed in a normal setting (default setting) state, and a connection request from the inside to the outside (from the multifunction machine 10 side to the network 1 side) is issued. Then, only packets with consistency are passed as a response to the request. That is, in the normal setting state, the broadband router 2 allows a response (response) to a request (request) from the inside to the outside of the data transmitted from the outside to the inside, and blocks the others. To do. As described above, the broadband router 2 functions as a firewall for preventing unauthorized access from the network 1 to the multifunction peripheral 10.

The multifunction machine 10 corresponds to the image processing apparatus of the present invention, and has a telephone (voice communication) function, a scanner function, a printer function, a copy function, a facsimile function, and the like.
In this image processing system, the multifunction machine 10 can use a plurality of types of services related to the above functions via the network 1. Specifically, the function server 30 provided on the network 1 is configured to be able to execute a plurality of types of services related to the functions of the multifunction device 10 in response to a request from the multifunction device 10. Further, in the present image processing system, the directory server 20 provided on the network 1 sends information about services (services executable by the function server 30) that the multifunction device 10 can use via the network 1 to the multifunction device. 10 can be provided. In the present embodiment, the directory server 20 and the function server 30 correspond to the service providing apparatus of the present invention.

Hereinafter, each configuration of the multifunction machine 10, the directory server 20, and the function server 30 will be described.
The multifunction machine 10 includes a control unit 11, an operation unit 12, a reading unit 13, a recording unit 14, a communication unit 15, a storage unit 16, a sound input unit 17, and a sound output unit 18.

  The control unit 11 includes a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like (not shown), and comprehensively controls each unit constituting the multifunction machine 10. The ROM stores a program for causing the CPU to execute various processes (FIGS. 12 to 20) described later.

  The operation unit 12 receives an input operation by a user (user) of the multifunction machine 10 and displays information for the user via the operation panel 12a illustrated in FIG. Specifically, the operation panel 12a includes up / down / left / right direction keys 40, 42, 44, 46, a Set key 48, and a cancel key 50 as a group of keys for accepting an input operation by a user. These correspond to the operating means of the present invention. Further, in order to display information for the user, a display 52 corresponding to the display means of the present invention is provided.

The reading unit (scanner) 13 reads an image recorded (for example, printed) on a sheet-like recording medium such as paper, and generates image data representing the image.
The recording unit (printer) 14 prints an image represented by the image data on a sheet-like recording medium such as paper.

The communication unit 15 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data via the network 1.
The storage unit 16 includes a nonvolatile RAM (not shown), and stores data in the nonvolatile RAM.

The sound input unit 17 inputs sound from a microphone provided in a handset (receiver) (not shown) included in the multifunction machine 10 and generates sound data (PCM data) representing the sound.
The sound output unit 18 outputs the sound represented by the sound data (PCM data) from a speaker provided in a handset (not shown) or a speaker (not shown) provided in the multifunction device main body.

Next, the configuration of the directory server 20 will be described.
The directory server 20 includes a control unit 21, a communication unit 22, and a storage unit 23.

  The control unit 21 includes a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like (not shown), and comprehensively controls each unit constituting the directory server 20. The ROM stores a program for causing the CPU to execute processing to be described later.

The communication unit 22 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data via the network 1.
The storage unit 23 includes a hard disk (not shown), and stores data in the hard disk. Specifically, the storage unit 23 is provided with a service definition information storage unit 24 for storing service definition information 25, which corresponds to the definition information storage unit of the present invention.

The service definition information 25 is for providing information (service type and request destination) about services that can be executed by the function server 30 to the multifunction peripheral 10.
The control unit 21 generates service selection menu information based on the service definition information 25 stored in the service definition information storage unit 24 and transmits the menu information to the MFP 10 via the communication unit 22. This corresponds to the service menu information transmitting means of the present invention.

  When the menu information and the service definition information 25 are received by the multifunction device 10, based on the information, the multifunction device 10 displays a service selection screen (type of service) on the display 52 of the operation panel 12 a. 4) is displayed to prompt the user of the multifunction machine 10 to select a service. In this system, the directory server 20 manages the services that can be executed by the function server 30 by classifying them into several categories. On the service selection screen, the directory server 20 first presents the above categories and selects one of them. The user is prompted to select one category, and then presents the services included in the selected category to prompt the user to select one of the services. In the service definition information storage unit 24, service definition information 25 (hereinafter referred to as “top service definition information 25”) corresponding to a service selection screen that prompts selection of a category, and selection of a service included in each category. A plurality of service definition information 25 corresponding to the service selection screen for prompting the user is stored.

Here, a specific example of the service definition information 25 will be described.
FIG. 3 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the service definition information 25. As an example of the above category, the data configuration of the service definition information 25 related to the “copy application service” is shown. As shown in the figure, the service definition information 25 is described in XML (extensible Markup Language), and the definition of each tag used in FIG. 3 is as shown in Table 1.

  The tag <ID> is a tag representing identification information for identifying service definition information, and the tag <Title> is a tag representing a display title to be displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a. Further, the tag <Type> is a tag for defining whether it is MENU (link list to other information in a selection format) or FORM (data input form in an input format), and is illustrated in FIG. In the case of service definition information to be performed, it is defined by MENU.

  The tag <Link> is a content related to the data of the link destination, and is specifically a tag that represents information for displaying on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a and receiving selection from the operator based on the display. . Next, a tag <Num_Link> is a tag that represents the number of pieces of information represented by the tag <Link>.

  Next, a tag that constitutes information represented by a tag <Link>, and the tag <Link_Title> is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a, and indicates a link destination service or information. It is a tag that represents a character string. A tag <Link_Location> is a tag that represents a link destination when a link is selected. When the information represented by the tag <Link> is a service, the tag <Link_Location> describes a URL indicating the location of the service software, and the information represented by the tag <Link> is another service definition information. If there is, the tag <Link_Location> describes its ID.

FIG. 4 is a service selection screen related to the “copy application service” displayed based on the data configuration illustrated in FIG. Specifically, the characters “Copy Application Service” are displayed in the upper position of the display 52 as a display title (Title), and below that, an item (Link_Title) representing a selectable service is displayed. The characters “copy”, “translation copy”, “speech reading” and “speech text conversion” are displayed. Each item is associated with an ID of service definition information 25 corresponding to each category (Link_Location), and when the selection of the item is confirmed, the service definition information 25 of the ID corresponding to the item is combined with the MFP. 10 is received.

  However, because of the size of the display 52, it may not be possible to display all items at once. In the multifunction device 10, when there is an item that is not displayed on the display 52, an up / down arrow (triangle mark) is displayed on the right side of the item display position on the display 52, and the item exists in the direction indicated by the arrow. The arrow is displayed in black, and when the item does not exist, the arrow is displayed in white so that the user can determine whether there is an item that is not displayed. For example, in FIG. 4 a, the downward arrow is black, which indicates that another item exists under “read a document”. For this reason, when the cursor is moved downward by the downward direction key 46 on the operation panel 12a in the state of FIG. 4a, the items are scrolled as a whole, and as shown in FIG. "Speech text conversion" characters are displayed.

Next, the configuration of the function server 30 will be described.
The function server 30 includes a control unit 31, a communication unit 32, and a storage unit 33.
The control unit 31 includes a well-known CPU, ROM, RAM, and the like (not shown), and comprehensively controls each unit constituting the function server 30. The ROM stores a program for causing the CPU to execute processing to be described later. Further, the control unit 31 has a much higher performance than the control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10 and can perform processing that is difficult to execute by the control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10.

The communication unit 32 performs processing for transmitting and receiving data via the network 1.
The storage unit 33 includes a hard disk (not shown), and stores data in the hard disk. Specifically, in the storage unit 33, a service I / F information storage unit 34 (corresponding to parameter information storage means of the present invention) for storing service I / F information 36 (corresponding to parameter information ), a service, A service software storage unit 35 for storing software 37 is provided.

  The service software 37 is for executing a plurality of types of services and corresponds to the service supply means of the present invention. Specifically, a plurality of types of service software 37 are stored in the service software storage unit 35, and different services can be executed for each service software 37 under the control of the control unit 31. Here, as the service, for example, a service relating to image data generated by the reading unit 13 of the multifunction device 10, a service relating to sound data generated by the sound input unit 17 of the multifunction device 10, and a recording unit 14 of the multifunction device 10. A service related to image data representing an image to be printed, a service related to sound data representing sound output by the sound output unit 18 of the multifunction machine 10, and the like.

  As described above, the service software storage unit 35 and the control unit 31 that controls the service software 37 stored in the service software storage unit 35 correspond to the service execution unit of the present invention.

The service I / F information 36 is used for requesting the MFP 10 for parameters that need to be set in order to execute the service. The control unit 31 generates menu information for parameter input based on the service I / F information, and transmits the menu information to the multifunction machine 10 via the communication unit 32. In the present embodiment, the control unit 31 By the operation, the function as the parameter menu information transmitting means of the present invention is realized.

When the menu information and the service I / F information 36 are received by the multifunction device 10, the multifunction device 10 inputs a parameter indicating parameters to be set on the display 52 of the operation panel 12 a based on the information. A display screen (illustrated in FIG. 6) is displayed to prompt the user of the multifunction machine 10 to set parameters. The service I / F information storage unit 34 stores a plurality of types of service I / F information 36 corresponding to each of a plurality of types of services that can be executed by the function server 30.

Here, a specific example of the service I / F information 36 will be described.
FIG. 5 is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a data configuration of the service I / F information 36. Specifically, it is service I / F information for displaying a text input. This input display process (Text / Password input display process) is shown in FIG. FIG. 8 is an explanatory diagram showing an example of the data configuration of the service I / F information 36, which is service I / F information for displaying selection items. This display process (Select display process) is shown in FIG. As shown in these figures, the service I / F information 36 is described in the same markup language as the service definition information 25 described above. The definition of each tag used is as shown in Table 2.

The tag <ID> is a tag representing identification information for identifying service I / F information, and the tag <Title> is a tag representing a display title for display on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a. Further, the tag <Type> is a tag for defining whether it is MENU (link list to other information in a selection format) or FORM (data input form in an input format), and is illustrated in FIG. In the case of service I / F information for displaying text input, it is defined by FORM.

The tag <Action> is a tag representing a URL indicating the location of the program that actually performs processing, that is, the service software 37 based on the input parameters.
The tag <Form_Elem> is a tag for representing a data element constituting the FORM defined by the tag <Type>, and the tag <Num_Form_Elem> is a tag representing the number of information represented by the tag <Form_Elem>. It is.

  The tag <Form_Type> indicates what data type the information represented by the tag <Form_Elem> is, and is either Text or Password as an input format or Select as a selection format. It is a tag for defining.

  The tag <Form_Data> is a tag constituting information represented by the tag <Form_Elem>. Specifically, the tag <Form_Data> is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a and receives an input from the operator based on the display. This tag represents information for the purpose.

  Next, a tag constituting information represented by a tag <Form_Data>, the tag <Disp_Name> is a tag for defining a display character string that is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a and represents an input item. The tag <Value_Name> is a tag that represents a variable name that can be identified by the computer when the input item is transmitted as data.

  Furthermore, the tag <Max_Byte> that constitutes information represented by the tag <Form_Data> and is used when the information represented by the tag <Form_Type> is Text or Password is the maximum character string that can be input. The tag representing the number of bytes, and the tag <Default_String> is a tag representing a character string to be displayed in the input area in the initial state.

  The tag <Form_Data> is a tag constituting information represented by the tag <Form_Type>, and the tag <Multi_Select> is defined as either “0”, “1”, or “1”. , 0 is a tag indicating that multiple selection is not possible, and 1 is a tag indicating that multiple selection is possible. The tag <Option> is information relating to a selection item, and specifically represents a tag that is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a and represents information for receiving selection from the operator based on the display. The tag <Num_Option> is a tag representing the number of information (selection items) represented by the tag <Option>.

  Next, a tag that constitutes information represented by a tag <Option>, and the tag <Disp_Select> is a tag for defining a display character string that is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a and indicates the contents of options. It is. The tag <Disp_Value> is a tag that represents a value given to the data so that the computer can identify the selected option when transmitting the selected option as data. The tag <Default_Select> is a tag <Disp_Select>. This is a tag for defining whether or not the displayed option is selected in the initial state.

  FIG. 6 is an explanatory diagram of a text input screen related to service I / F information displayed based on the data configuration illustrated in FIG. The example shown in FIG. 6 is an example in which the display 52 is a two-line display on the operation panel 12a included in the multifunction machine 10. “SAMPLE” is displayed corresponding to the ID of the service I / F information.

  Specifically, first, as shown in 60 a, the characters “Usage application” are displayed on the first level of the display 52 as a display title (Title). Here, when “use application” is selected, it moves to the lower hierarchy 2 (FIG. 62b), and the input screen is displayed as 62a.

  Here, “use application” is again displayed as the display title (Title). As a result, the user can grasp what has been selected in the previous selection. On the input screen in level 2, “name” and “furigana” are displayed as subordinate items of “use application”. These items are displayed by operating the upper and lower selection buttons 44 or 46 to scroll the screen.

  Here, for example, if “name” is selected, the screen moves to level 3 (FIG. 64b), and the input screen is displayed as shown in 64a. Again, the “name” of the previous selection item is displayed. Furthermore, a text box for inputting a name is displayed below the text box. Similarly, when “phonetic” is selected on the input screen in level 2, “phonetic” is displayed, and a text box for inputting the phonetic is displayed below it. In this way, it is possible to provide an operation panel 12a that is convenient for the user.

  Next, FIG. 7 is a text input screen related to service I / F information displayed based on the data configuration illustrated in FIG. 5, and the display 52 of the operation panel 12 a included in the multi-function device 10 displays one line. It is an example of the screen in the case of. “SAMPLE” is displayed corresponding to the ID of the service I / F information.

  First, as shown in 72 a, a “use application” character is displayed on the level 2 in the display 52 as a display title (Title). Here, when “use application” is selected, it moves to the next lower hierarchy 3 (FIG. 74b), and the input screen is displayed as 74a.

  Here, “name” and “furigana” are displayed as items positioned under “use application”. In this case, the display of “use application” as a title is omitted. For example, if “usage application” is also displayed on the input screen in level 3, when only “usage application” is displayed on the screen, it is distinguished whether the user is in level 2 or level 3. I can't. Therefore, it is conceivable that the user is confused when inputting parameters or presses an extra button. Therefore, in the case of single line display, the display of the previous selection item is omitted.

  Next, when “name” or “phonetic” is selected on the input screen in the hierarchy 3, it moves to the lower hierarchy 4 (FIG. 76b), and the input screen is displayed as 76a. To do. Here, a text box is displayed corresponding to the item selected on the input screen in level 3.

  Next, FIG. 9 is an explanatory diagram of a screen for determining selection items related to service I / F information displayed based on the data configuration illustrated in FIG. The example shown in FIG. 9 is an example in which the display 52 has a two-line display on the operation panel 12a included in the multifunction machine 10. “SAMPLE” is displayed corresponding to the ID of the service I / F information.

  First, as shown in 80 a, the characters “translation copy” are displayed on the first level of the display 52 as a display title (Title). Here, when “translation copy” is selected, it moves to the lower hierarchy 2 (FIG. 82b), and the input screen is displayed as shown in FIG. 82a.

  Here, “translation copy” is again displayed as the display title (Title). As a result, the user can grasp what has been selected in the previous selection. On the input screen in level 2, “language selection” is displayed as a subordinate item of “translation copy”. When “select language” is selected here, the screen moves to level 3 (FIG. 84b), and the input screen is displayed as 84a. Here too, the “select language” of the previous selection item is displayed. Further, items “English → Japanese” and “Japanese → English” are displayed as selection items located below “language selection”. These items can be displayed on the input screen in the hierarchy 3 by operating the upper and lower selection buttons 44 or 46 to scroll the screen.

  FIG. 10 is an explanatory diagram of a screen for determining selection items related to service I / F information, which is displayed based on the data configuration illustrated in FIG. 8, and the operation panel 12 a display 52 included in the multifunction peripheral 10 is displayed. It is an example in the case of 1 line display. “SAMPLE” is displayed corresponding to the ID of the service I / F information.

  First, as shown in 92a, the characters “translation copy” are displayed on the level 2 of the display 52 as a display title (Title). Here, when “translation copy” is selected, it moves to the lower hierarchy 3 (FIG. 94b), and the input screen is displayed as 94a.

  Here, “language selection” is displayed as an item positioned below “translation copy”, and “translation copy” as a title is omitted. For example, if “translation copy” is also displayed on the input screen in level 3, when only “translation copy” is displayed on the screen, it is distinguished whether the user is in level 2 or level 3. I can't. Therefore, it is conceivable that the user is confused when inputting parameters or presses an extra button. Therefore, in the case of single line display, the display of the previous selection item is omitted.

Next, when “Language selection” is selected on the input screen in the hierarchy 3, it moves to the lower hierarchy 4 (FIG. 96b), and the input screen is displayed like 96a.
Here, the selection items are displayed corresponding to the items selected on the input screen in the hierarchy 3. In this example, specifically, “English → Japanese” and “Japanese → English”. Further, the display of “language selection” is omitted.

  As described above, the service I / F information is described in XML and has a hierarchical data structure. The control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10 analyzes the data structure and appropriately controls the information so that the information can be displayed in accordance with the specifications of the display 52 provided in the operation panel 12a.

By this control, the information can be displayed in any multifunction device, and an operation panel (menu image) that is convenient for the user can be provided.
Here, an example of communication performed between the multifunction machine 10, the directory server 20, and the function server 30 will be described with reference to a ladder chart of FIG.

  First, when a request for service definition information is requested from the multifunction device 10 to the directory server 20, the directory server 20 transmits menu information for selecting a service together with the service definition information.

When a service is selected based on this menu information, the multifunction machine 10 requests the function server 30 to start the service. Note that the multifunction machine 10 and the function server 30 perform a series of communication processing (sessions) from service activation to service termination. Upon receiving a service activation request from the multifunction device 10, the function server 30 transmits a session ID to the multifunction device 10. Here, the session ID is an identifier for specifying a session in the function server 30. In the subsequent communication, the multifunction machine 10 transmits a session ID in response to a request from the function server 30 (hereinafter referred to as a request). The function server 30 identifies a session based on the session ID. Thereby, the function server 30 can process a plurality of sessions simultaneously.

  Upon receiving the session ID, the multi-function device 10 periodically makes a multi-function device command inquiry, which is a command inquiry to the multi-function device 10, and receives a command in the form of a response from the function server 30. If there is no command to be transmitted in response to the multifunction device command inquiry, the function server 30 transmits that there is no command (no multifunction device command).

  In this example, the function server 30 first transmits a UI (user interface) job activation command to the multifunction device 10. Here, the UI job activation command is a notification of the start of use of a UI device (operation panel 12a) provided in the multifunction machine 10. As a result, UI job communication processing is started between the MFP 10 and the function server 30. This UI job communication process is performed in parallel with the session. Further, in response to the UI job start command, the function server 30 transmits a job ID (identifier unique to the session) for specifying a job in the function server 30. In the UI job communication process, the multifunction machine 10 transmits a session ID and a job ID according to the request, and the function server 30 identifies the job based on the session ID and the job ID. Thereby, the function server 30 can process a plurality of jobs simultaneously.

Next, UI job communication processing will be described.
In the UI job communication process, first, the multi-function device 10 makes a multi-function device job command inquiry to the function server 30 as a command inquiry to the multi-function device 10. Then, the function server 30 transmits a parameter request to the multifunction device 10. Here, the parameter request is for causing the user of the multifunction device 10 to set parameters necessary for executing the service, and service I / F information is sent from the function server 30 to the multifunction device 10 in accordance with the parameter request. 36 is transmitted.

  When receiving the parameter request from the function server 30, the multi-function device 10 generates a menu image for parameter input based on the service I / F information 36, and displays the image on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a (for example, FIG. 9). . Then, the parameters set by the user are transmitted to the function server 30.

  When the function server 30 receives the parameter from the multifunction device 10, the function server 30 transmits a server reception status that is a notification indicating whether the function server 30 has successfully received the information from the multifunction device 10.

  Then, when the multifunction device 10 confirms that the function server 30 has received the parameters normally based on the server reception status received from the function server 30, the service state information that is a request for information regarding the service state is sent to the function server 30. Make a request.

When the function server 30 receives the service status information request from the multifunction device 10, the function server 30 transmits service status information, which is a notification of the status of the function server 30 and the service, to the multifunction device 10.
Thereafter, the service status information request and the transmission of the service status information corresponding thereto are repeated.

  Next, MFP processing performed by the control unit 11 of the MFP 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG. Note that the MFP processing is started when the MFP 10 is turned on.

When this multifunction peripheral process is started, first, initialization processing of the multifunction peripheral 10 is performed in S100.
Subsequently, in S105, an input to the multifunction machine 10 is received. Here, the input to the multifunction device 10 is an input for causing the multifunction device 10 to start some processing. For example, a key input on the operation panel 12a, an instruction input from a personal computer (not shown), or the like. Can be mentioned.

Subsequently, in S110, it is determined whether or not the input received in S105 is an input for shifting to a service mode that is an operation mode for requesting a service from the function server 30.
If it is determined in S110 that the input is not for shifting to the service mode, the process shifts to S115 to perform other mode processing (for example, image printing processing) according to the input received in S105. Return to.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S110 that the input is for shifting to the service mode, the process proceeds to S120. As a method for requesting a service to the function server 30, one of a method of selecting a service from a list and a method of directly inputting a request destination URL of a desired service is selected. Yes. In S120, it is determined whether or not the method is a method for selecting a service from a list.

  If it is determined in S120 that the method of requesting a service from the function server 30 is a method of selecting from the list, the process proceeds to S125, and the directory server 20 is requested to inquire about the service list. Specifically, the directory server 20 is requested to transmit the top service definition information 25. At this time, the language information used in the multifunction machine 10 is sent to the directory server 20 for notification. Further, in this example, the multifunction device 10 stores in advance in the storage unit 16 a communication destination address (URL) for requesting the top service definition information 25.

In S130, the top service definition information 25 transmitted from the directory server 20 in response to the request in S125 is received.
Next, in S135, the display language of the received top service definition information 25 is confirmed. Subsequently, the process proceeds to S140, and it is determined whether or not the display language of the received service definition information 25 matches the current display language. If it is determined that they do not match, the display language displayed on the display 52 is changed in S145.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S140 that they match, the process proceeds to S150.
In S150, a menu image for service selection based on the service definition information 25 received in S130 is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a (FIG. 4), and the process proceeds to S160.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S120 that the service requested to the function server 30 is not selected from the list (when “direct input” is selected), the process proceeds to S155 and an address input screen for directly inputting the URL. (Not shown) is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a, and the process proceeds to S160.

In S160, the operation panel 12a receives an input operation by the user for determining a service requested from the function server 30.
Subsequently, in S165, it is determined whether or not the input operation received in S160 is an operation for link selection. Specifically, when the selection operation is normally performed based on the information displayed in S150, or when the URL is normally input on the address input screen displayed in S155, the operation for link selection is performed. It is determined that

  If it is determined in S165 that the operation is not for link selection, the process proceeds to S170, and it is determined whether or not the input operation received in S160 is a stop operation for ending the service mode.

If it is determined in S170 that the operation is a stop operation for ending the service mode, the process returns to S105. That is, the processing as the service mode ends.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S170 that the operation is not a stop operation for ending the service mode, the process proceeds to S175, a refusal sound (buzzer sound or the like) is generated, and then the process returns to S160. That is, when the input operation received in S160 is neither a link selection operation nor a stop operation, the user is notified by a rejection sound.

If it is determined in S165 that the operation is for selecting a link, the process proceeds to S180, where it is determined whether the selected URL is a service URL.
If it is determined in S180 that the URL is not a service URL (the URL of the service definition information 25), the process proceeds to S185, and information indicated by the tag <Link_Location> (if the URL is directly input, the URL is Based on the received information), the server requests the directory server 20 to inquire about the service (requests transmission of the service definition information 25), and receives the requested service definition information 25 from the directory server 20. Thereafter, the process returns to S150. As a result, a new service selection screen is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S180 that the URL is a service URL, the process proceeds to S190, a session process (FIG. 13) described later is performed, and then the process returns to S105.
It should be noted that the processes related to S105 to S130 and S160 to S185 in this flow, that is, the directory server is requested to select an image processing service via the operation unit, and the information transmitted in response to the request is received. The processing corresponds to service menu information acquisition means of the present invention.

Further, the processing according to S135 to S150 of this flow corresponds to service menu image display control means in the present invention.
Next, the session process executed in S190 in the MFP process (FIG. 12) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When this session processing is started, first, in S200, a service to be used is selected, and a service is selected based on information represented by the tag <Link_Location> (or URL if the URL is directly input) of the service definition information 25. to start. That is, the service selected by the user is activated by transmitting a service activation command to the service URL.

The processing in S200 corresponds to the image processing service starting means in the present invention.
Subsequently, in S205, the session ID is received from the function server 30.
Subsequently, in S <b> 210, a “multifunction device command inquiry”, which is a command inquiry to the multifunction device, is transmitted to the function server 30. Note that the session ID received in the process of S205 is transmitted in response to the MFP command inquiry.

Subsequently, in S215, a command returned in response to the “multifunction device command inquiry” transmitted in S210 is received.
Subsequently, in S220, it is determined whether or not the command received in S215 is a job start command. Along with the job activation command, a job ID for identifying the job and a communication destination URL of the job are transmitted.

  If it is determined in S220 that the command is a job activation command, the process proceeds to S225 to secure resources necessary for job activation, and further proceeds to S230 to start the designated job activation process. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S235, waits for a predetermined interval, and then returns to S210.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S220 that the command is not a job activation command, the process proceeds to S240, and it is determined whether or not the command received in S215 commands the end of the job.
If it is determined in S240 that the job is to be commanded, the process proceeds to S245 to stop the job corresponding to the command and release resources. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S235, waits for a predetermined interval, and then returns to S210.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S240 that the command is not to command the end of the job, the process proceeds to S250, and it is determined whether or not the command received in S215 represents “no command”. That is, it is determined whether or not the reply to the “multifunction device command inquiry” transmitted in S210 is a transmission indicating that there is no command.

If it is determined in S250 that the command received in S215 represents “no command”, the process proceeds to S235, waits for a predetermined interval, and then returns to S210.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S250 that the command received in S215 does not indicate “no command”, the process proceeds to S255, and it is determined whether or not the command received in S215 commands the end of the session. judge.

If it is determined in S255 that the instruction is to instruct the end of the session, the session processing is ended.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S255 that the session is not instructed, that is, the command received in S215 is a job start command, job end command, “no command”, and session end. If it is not any of the commands, the process proceeds to S260, and command error processing (for example, processing for displaying a message indicating an error on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a) is performed. Thereafter, the session process is terminated.

Next, the specified job activation process started by the process of S230 in the session process (FIG. 13) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.
When the activation process for the designated job is started, first, in S300, it is determined whether or not the job designated by the job activation instruction is a UI job.

  If it is determined in S300 that the job specified by the job start command is a UI job, the process proceeds to S305, the job ID and the communication destination URL of the job are passed, and the UI job is started. Terminates job startup processing.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S300 that the job specified by the job start command is not a UI job, the process proceeds to S310, and it is determined whether the job specified by the job start command is a scan job (Scan job). judge.

  If it is determined in S310 that the job specified by the job start command is not a scan job, the process proceeds to S315, and it is determined whether the job specified by the job start command is a voice job (Voice job). To do.

If it is determined in S315 that the job designated by the job activation command is not a voice job, the process proceeds to S325.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S310 that the job specified by the job activation command is a scan job, or if it is determined in S315 that the job specified by the job activation command is a voice job, the process proceeds to S320. Then, after starting the input job by passing the job ID for identifying the job and the communication destination URL of the job, the start processing of the designated job is terminated.

Next, in S325, it is determined whether or not the job specified by the job activation command is a print job (Print job).
If it is determined in S325 that the job specified by the job activation command is not a print job, the process proceeds to S330, and it is determined whether or not the job specified by the job activation command is a speaker job (Speaker job). To do.

  If it is determined in S330 that the job specified by the job activation command is not a speaker job, that is, the job specified by the job activation command is a UI job, a scan job, a voice job, a print job, or a speaker job. If it is determined that neither of these is true, the activation process of the designated job is terminated as it is.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S325 that the job specified by the job activation command is a print job, or if it is determined in S330 that the job specified by the job activation command is a speaker job, the process proceeds to S335. Then, after passing the job ID and job communication destination URL and starting the output job, the start processing of the designated job is terminated.

  The UI job is a job executed when using a UI device (operation panel 12a) provided in the multifunction machine 10. A Scan job is a job executed by a service related to image data generated by the reading unit 13, and a Voice job is a job executed by a service related to sound generated by the sound input unit 17 or audio data. Further, the Print job is a job executed by a service related to image data representing an image to be printed by the recording unit 14, and the Peaker job is executed by a service related to sound data representing sound output by the sound output unit 18. It is a job.

  Next, the UI job that is activated so as to operate in parallel with the session process in S305 in the designated job activation process (FIG. 14) will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  When this UI job is started, first, in S400, a multifunction device job command inquiry, which is a command inquiry to the multifunction device 10, is written in a predetermined area as transmission data. This transmission data is information used in the processing of S425 described later, and the information written as this data is transmitted to the function server 30 together with the session ID and job ID. The transmission data storage area is provided in a predetermined area of a RAM (not shown) provided in the control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10.

  Next, in S402, it is determined whether or not there is an end instruction from the session. Note that the end instruction from the session is output by the process of S210 in the session process (FIG. 13) executed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10.

If it is determined in S402 that there has been an end instruction from the session, the process proceeds to S405, and the UI job is ended after notifying the session of the end.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S402 that there is no termination instruction from the session, the process proceeds to S410, and it is determined whether or not the operation panel 12a is busy. Specifically, based on the busy flag Fu indicating whether or not the operation panel 12a is busy, the busy flag Fu is determined to be busy, and when the busy flag Fu is lowered, the busy flag Fu is busy. It is determined that it is not in a state.

  If it is determined in S410 that the operation panel 12a is busy, the process proceeds to S415, waits until the busy state of the operation panel 12a is released, and then returns to S410.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S410 that the current state is not busy, the process proceeds to S420 and the busy flag Fu is set.
Subsequently, in S425, the information written as the transmission data described above is transmitted to the function server 30 together with the session ID and job ID. Further, at this time, the control unit 11 of the multifunction device 10 transmits the language information used in the multifunction device 10 to the function server 30 to notify it.

Subsequently, in S430, the MFP command that is returned in response to the information transmitted in S425 is received.
Subsequently, in S435, it is determined whether or not the MFP command received in S430 is a parameter request. The service I / F information 36 is transmitted in response to the parameter request.

If it is determined in S435 that the request is a parameter request, the process proceeds to S440, and the display language of the received service I / F information is confirmed.
In S445, it is determined whether or not the display language of the received service I / F information matches the current language. If it is determined that they do not match, the process proceeds to S450, and the display language displayed on the display 52 is changed.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S445 that the display languages match, the process proceeds to S455, where a menu image for parameter input is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a based on the service I / F information 36, and parameters are set. Prompt the user for input operations. Then, the process proceeds to S460, and in order to transmit the input parameter to the function server 30, the parameter is written in the transmission data storage area as transmission data. Further, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S402. If the parameter written as transmission data is not instructed to end from the session (S402: NO) and the operation panel is not busy (S410: NO), the function server 30 is processed in S425. Sent to.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S435 that the request is not a parameter request, the process proceeds to S465, and it is determined whether or not the MFP command received in S430 is service status information indicating the progress status or status of the service.

If it is determined in S465 that the service status information is obtained, the process proceeds to S466 and the display language of the received service status information is confirmed.
In S467, it is determined whether or not the display language of the received service status information matches the current language. If it is determined that they do not match, the process proceeds to S468, and the display language displayed on the display 52 is changed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S467 that the display languages match, the process proceeds to S470, and information based on the service status information is displayed on the display 52 of the operation panel 12a.
Next, the process proceeds to S472, and in order to transmit the service status information request, which is a command for requesting the operating status information of the service operating on the function server 30, to the function server 30, the service status information request is transmitted. Is written in the storage area for data for transmission.

  Then, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S402. If the service status information request written as transmission data is not instructed to end by the session (S402: NO) and the operation panel is not busy (S410: NO), the process of S425 is performed. It is transmitted to the function server 30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S465 that it is not service status information, the process proceeds to S475, and it is determined whether or not the MFP command received in S430 is a status information request that is information related to the status of the MFP 10. .

  If it is determined in S475 that the request is a status information request, the process proceeds to S480, and in order to transmit the status information to the function server 30, the MFP status information is transmitted as transmission data to the transmission data storage area. Write. Then, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S402. Note that the MFP status information written as transmission data is not instructed to end from the session thereafter (S402: NO), and the operation panel is not busy (S410: NO), the process of S425 is performed. It is transmitted to the function server 30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S475 that the request is not a status information request, the process proceeds to S485, where the MFP command received in S430 indicates whether the function server 30 has successfully received the information from the MFP 10. It is determined whether or not it is a command for requesting the server reception status, which is a notification representing the.

  If it is determined in S485 that the command is for requesting the server reception status, the process proceeds to S490, and it is determined whether or not the contents of the server reception status indicate abnormal reception (NG).

  If it is determined in S490 that it represents an abnormal receipt (NG), the process proceeds to S495, and the function server 30 retransmits the previously transmitted information. Write as transmission data to the transmission data storage area. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S402.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S490 that it does not represent an abnormal receipt (NG), in S496, in order to transmit a service status information request, which is a command for requesting information on the service operating status, to the function server 30, After writing the service status information request as transmission data in the transmission data storage area, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S402.

  Note that the information to be retransmitted and the service status information request written as transmission data in S495 and S496 are not thereafter instructed to end from the session (S402: NO), and the operation panel is not busy (S410: NO). ) State, it is transmitted to the function server 30 in the process of S425.

If it is determined in S485 that the command is not for requesting the server reception status, the process proceeds to S497, and it is determined whether or not the MFP command received in S430 represents “no command”. That is, it is determined whether or not the reply to the “MFP job command inquiry” transmitted in S425 is a transmission indicating that there is no command.

  If it is determined in S497 that the multifunction device command received in S430 represents “no command”, in S498, a multifunction device job command inquiry, which is a command inquiry to the multifunction device 10, is sent to the function server 30. In order to transmit, the MFP job command inquiry is written in the transmission data storage area as transmission data, and then the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and the process returns to S402. Note that the MFP job command inquiry written as transmission data is not instructed to end from the session thereafter (S402: NO), and the operation panel is not busy (S410: NO), the process of S425 is performed. To the function server 30.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S497 that the multi-function device command received in S430 does not indicate “no command”, the process proceeds to S499 to process a specification error. Thereafter, the process proceeds to S462, the busy flag Fu is lowered, and then the process returns to S400.

In the process related to S425 to S430 of the present flow, the process of receiving the parameter request information from the function server 30 corresponds to the parameter menu information acquisition unit in the present invention.
Next, the UI presentation process started by the process of S455 in the UI job (FIG. 15) and executed by the control unit 11 of the multifunction machine 10 will be described with reference to the flowchart of FIG.

  In this UI presentation process, first, in S500, the service I / F information transmitted from the function server 30 is analyzed. Specifically, the data structure of service I / F information including menu information required to input various parameters necessary for executing the service is analyzed. This is because a menu image based on the service I / F information is displayed in accordance with the specifications of the display 52 of the operation panel 12a provided in the multifunction machine 10.

Next, the process proceeds to S505, and a menu image is displayed on the display 52 in accordance with the analyzed service I / F information.
As described above, the processing related to S440 to S450 in S500 to S505 and the UI job (FIG. 15) corresponds to parameter menu image display control means in the present invention.

  Next, when information is input according to the displayed menu image, in S510, it is determined whether or not the command by the input is item movement. If it is determined that the item is moved, the process proceeds to S505 again, and the menu image of the movement destination is displayed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S510 that the item is not moved, the process proceeds to S515, where it is determined whether data transmission is selected.
If it is determined that the data transmission is selected, the process proceeds to S520, where transmission data is generated. In step S525, the service I / F information transmitted from the function server is deleted. In this embodiment, the service I / F information is deleted as described above in order to reduce the load on the multifunction machine 10, but the multifunction machine 10 is provided with a cache function to provide a service I / F. Information may be stored and held.

  On the other hand, if it is determined in S515 that the data transmission is not selected, the process proceeds to S530, where it is determined whether the Title of the menu image is selected. If it is determined that Title is not selected, the process returns to S505 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S530 that Title is selected, the process proceeds to S535, where it is determined whether or not the data type of the item whose display name is represented by Title is MENU.
If it is determined that the type is MENU, the process proceeds to S540, and MENU display processing is executed. The MENU display process is a process represented by the flow of FIG.

  If it is determined in S535 that the type is not MENU, the process proceeds to S545, and the FORM display process is executed. The FORM display process is a process represented by the flow of FIG.

Next, the MENU display process started by the process of S540 in the UI presentation process (FIG. 16) will be described using the flowchart of FIG.
In this MENU display process, first, in S600, information represented by tags <Title> and <Link_Title> is displayed on the display 52. Note that the number of display lines is determined depending on the specifications of the display 52.

Next, in S605, it is determined whether or not the command by the key input made according to the menu image is “return”.
If it is determined to be “return”, the process proceeds to S505 in the UI presentation process (FIG. 16). On the other hand, if it is determined in S605 that it is not “return”, then the process proceeds to S610, where it is determined whether or not the command by the key input is an item movement. If it is determined that the item is moving, the process proceeds to S600 again, and information represented by tags <Title> and <Link_Title> is displayed. On the other hand, if it is determined in S610 that the command is not item movement, that is, the link is selected, the process proceeds to S615.

In S615, it is determined whether or not the Set button on the operation panel has been pressed. If it is determined that the Set button has not been pressed, the process returns to S610 again.
On the other hand, if it is determined in S615 that the Set button has been pressed, that is, link selection has been determined, the process proceeds to S620. Here, connection is made to the URL of the service defined by the tag <Link_Location>.

  If the connection is established in S620, the acquired service definition information is deleted in S625, and the process is terminated. In this embodiment, in order to reduce the load on the multifunction device 10, the service definition information is deleted as described above. However, the multifunction device 10 has a cache function and stores the service definition information. You may make it do.

Next, the FORM display process started by the process of S545 in the UI presentation process (FIG. 10) will be described using the flowchart of FIG.
In this FORM display process, first, in S700, information represented by tags <Title> and <Disp_Name> is displayed on the display 52. Note that the number of display lines is determined depending on the specifications of the display 52.

Next, in S705, it is determined whether or not the command by key input made according to the menu image is “return”.
If it is determined to be “return”, the process proceeds to S505 in the UI presentation process (FIG. 16). On the other hand, if it is determined in S705 that it is not “return”, then the process proceeds to S710, where it is determined whether or not the command by key input is item movement. If it is determined that the item is moving, the process proceeds to S700 again, and information represented by tags <Title> and <Disp_Name> is displayed. On the other hand, if it is determined in S710 that the command is not item movement, the process proceeds to S715.

In S715, it is determined whether an item has been determined. If it is determined that it has not been determined, the process returns to S700 again.
On the other hand, if it determines with the item having been determined in S715, it will transfer to S720 next.

  In S720, it is determined whether or not the form type (Form_Type), that is, the input format is a text (Text) format. If it is determined that the data is in the text format, the process proceeds to S725, and the text input display process is started.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S720 that the form type is not a text format, the process proceeds to S730.
In S730, it is determined whether or not the form type is a password format. If it is determined that the password format is used, the process proceeds to S735, and the Password input display process is started. In the Password input display process, the character string input by the operator is displayed by being replaced with another symbol or the like so that it cannot be recognized on the display 52.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S730 that the form type is not the password format, the process proceeds to S740.
In S740, it is determined whether or not the form type is a select format. If it is determined that the selected format is selected, the process proceeds to S745, and the Select input display process is started. In this Select input display process, a selection item is displayed.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S740 that the form type is not the select format, the process returns to S505 in the UI presentation process (FIG. 16) again.
Next, the Text input display process and the Password input display process started in the processes of S725 and S735 in the FORM display process (FIG. 18) will be described with reference to FIG.

In this process, first, in S800, the information represented by the tag <Disp_Name> and the Text input box are displayed on the display 52.
Next, the process proceeds to S805, and it is determined whether or not the command input by the key input is “return”. If it is determined that the process returns, the process returns to S700 in the FORM display process (FIG. 18).

On the other hand, if it is determined in S805 that the command is not “return”, the process proceeds to S810.
In S810, it is determined whether there is input data. If it is determined that there is input data, the process proceeds to S815, and the input data is displayed in the text box.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S810 that there is no input data, the process proceeds to S820, where Text input is accepted.
Subsequently, in S825, it is determined whether or not the Set button has been pressed, that is, whether or not input data has been determined. If it is determined that the Set button has not been pressed, the process returns to S810 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S825 that the Set button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S830, the input data is identified, and the process returns to S800.
Next, the Select display process started in S745 in the FORM display process (FIG. 18) will be described with reference to FIG.

In this Select display process, first, in S900, information represented by tags <Disp_Name> and <Disp_Select> is displayed on the display 52.
Next, the process proceeds to S905, where it is determined whether or not the command by the key input is “return”. If it is determined to be “return”, the process returns to the process of S700 in the FORM display process (FIG. 18) again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S905 that the command is not “return”, the process proceeds to S910.
In S910, it is determined whether or not the command by key input is item movement. If it is determined that the item is moving, the process returns to S900 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S910 that the command is not an item movement, the process proceeds to S915.
In S915, it is determined whether or not the Set button has been pressed, that is, whether or not selection has been determined. If it is determined that the Set button has not been pressed, the process returns to the determination process in S910 again.

On the other hand, if it is determined in S915 that the Set button has been pressed, the process proceeds to S920, the selection is confirmed, and the process returns to S900 again.
As described above, the image processing system according to the present embodiment includes the multifunction device 10, the function server 30 that can execute a service in response to a request from the multifunction device 10, and information about the service that can be executed by the function server 30. And a directory server 20 for providing the information to the multifunction machine 10. The multifunction device 10 displays a menu image for service selection based on the service definition information 25 transmitted from the directory server 20 and prompts the user to determine the service requested from the function server 30. Further, a menu image for parameter setting is displayed based on the service I / F information 36 transmitted from the function server 30, and the user is allowed to input parameters necessary for executing the requested service.

  Therefore, in this image processing system, the type of service that can be executed by the function server 30 and the request destination can be grasped based on the service definition information 25 transmitted from the directory server 20, so the type of service and the request destination It is not necessary to register information about the information in the multifunction machine 10. For this reason, even in an environment where the number of services that can be executed by the function server 30 is frequently increased or decreased, the burden on the MFP 10 and its users can be suppressed, and the types of services that can be used are enormous. Even in this case, the burden of the storage area provided in the multifunction machine 10 can be suppressed. In addition, there is no problem that unnecessary information remains registered in the multifunction device 10. In addition, it is possible to reduce the burden on the multifunction machine 10 even in a situation where the specifications of parameters necessary for executing the service are changed.

  In the image processing system of the present embodiment, the menu information based on the service definition information 25 and the service I / F information 36 is obtained from the specification information (resolution, color or monochrome, The compression method is also taken into account and transmitted to the multifunction device 10. In the multifunction device 10, in accordance with the specifications of the display 52 of the operation panel 12 a, a menu image is generated based on the menu information and displayed on the display 52, selection of a service requested from the function server 30 and parameters related to the service. Is set to be performed by the user of the multifunction machine 10.

  For this reason, according to the present image processing system, the menu image can be displayed regardless of the specifications of the display unit of the multifunction machine 10, and the service desired by the user of the multifunction machine 10 can be executed.

  In the image processing system of this embodiment, the menu information based on the service definition information 25 and the service I / F information 36 is hierarchized, and a tag is assigned to each information to identify or define the information. ing.

  Therefore, according to the present image processing system, it becomes easy for the multifunction device 10 to generate a menu image based on the menu information, the time required for the processing is shortened, and the burden on the multifunction device 10 is reduced. The In addition, data communication between the directory server 20 and the function server 30 and the multifunction machine 10 can be executed smoothly and reliably.

As mentioned above, although embodiment of this invention was described, this invention is not limited to the said embodiment, A various form can be taken within the technical scope of this invention.
For example, in the above-described embodiment, the directory server 20 that provides service definition information and the function server 30 that provides service I / F information are provided, but the functions provided by these servers are further provided to a plurality of servers. It may be realized in a distributed manner or may be realized by one server.

  In the above-described embodiment, the multifunction peripheral 10 uses the fact that the menu information based on the service I / F information transmitted from the function server 30 has a hierarchical data structure, so that the multifunction machine 10 can display the display 52 of the operation panel 12a. The menu image is displayed by controlling it appropriately according to the number of displayable lines, but the description (Title) and the item (text box or option) are displayed alternately to recognize the user. It is good also as a structure which is easy to do.

  In addition, the multifunction device 10 confirms the display language when the service definition information or the service I / F information is acquired. For example, the multifunction device 10 confirms the display language when the system is started or when the job is started. Also good.

  In the above-described embodiment, when the MFP 10 acquires service definition information from the directory server 20 and an image processing service is selected, the acquired service definition information is deleted. The service definition information may be stored and held by providing a cache function.

  Similarly, when the MFP 10 acquires service I / F information from the function server 30 and receives parameters, the MFP 10 deletes the acquired service I / F information. The service I / F information may be stored and held.

  In addition, in the above-described embodiment, the image processing service is configured to be executed by the user selecting an image processing service and setting parameters necessary for executing the selected image processing service. However, for example, the parameters in each image processing service are fixed, and the selected image processing service may be executed by selecting the image processing service to be executed by the user. In addition, the image processing service may be specified, and the image processing service may be executed by the user setting parameters relating to the specific image processing service.

1 is a block diagram illustrating a schematic configuration of an image processing system according to an embodiment. It is explanatory drawing of an operation panel. It is explanatory drawing showing the data structure of the service definition information of a copy application service. It is explanatory drawing of the screen for service selection. It is explanatory drawing showing the data structure of the service I / F information for displaying a text input. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) showing a text input screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) showing a text input screen. It is explanatory drawing showing the data structure of the service I / F information for displaying a selection item. It is explanatory drawing (the 1) showing a selection screen. It is explanatory drawing (the 2) showing a selection screen. 6 is a ladder chart for explaining a flow of communication performed between the multifunction peripheral, the directory server, and the function server. 6 is a flowchart of a multifunction machine process performed by a control unit of the multifunction machine. 6 is a flowchart of session processing performed by a control unit of the multifunction machine. 6 is a flowchart of a specified job activation process performed by the control unit of the multifunction peripheral. 5 is a flowchart of a UI job performed by a control unit of the multifunction machine. 5 is a flowchart of UI presentation performed by a control unit of the multifunction machine. 6 is a flowchart of a MENU display process performed by the control unit of the multifunction machine. 6 is a flowchart of a FORM display process performed by the control unit of the multifunction machine. 10 is a flowchart of a Text / Password input display process performed by a control unit of the multifunction machine. 10 is a flowchart of a Select display process performed by the control unit of the multifunction machine.

Explanation of symbols

  DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 ... Network, 2, 3, 4 ... Router, 10 ... Multifunction machine, 11 ... Control part, 12 ... Operation part, 12a ... Operation panel, 13 ... Reading part (scanner), 14 ... Recording part (printer), 15 ... Communication unit, 16 ... storage unit, 17 ... sound input unit, 18 ... sound output unit, 20 ... directory server, 21 ... control unit, 22 ... communication unit, 23 ... storage unit, 24 ... service definition information storage unit, 30 ... Function server 31 ... Control unit 32 ... Communication unit 33 ... Storage unit 34 ... Service I / F information storage unit 35 ... Service software storage unit

Claims (15)

A plurality of image processing apparatuses for reading image data or forming an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
For each image processing service that can be provided to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means for storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing;
Upon receiving a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus, a desired image processing service is selected from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side based on service definition information stored in the definition information storage unit. Service menu information transmitting means for generating service menu information required for selecting and returning the service menu information to the image processing device;
After the service menu information transmission means transmits the service menu information, when receiving the execution command of a particular image processing service from the image processing apparatus, comprising: a service execution unit to perform the commanded image processing service, and
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the selection request of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, a service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information,
A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. Service menu image display control means for displaying,
When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means,
While the service menu image display control means displays the service menu image, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the image processing service activation means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deletion means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition means from the service providing device to display the service menu image after transmission ,
Moreover, the service menu information the service menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus, the irrespective of the specification of the display unit of the image processing apparatus, wherein each of the image processing apparatus of the service menu image display control section An image processing system having a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means by the operation of. A plurality of image processing apparatuses for reading image data or forming an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs an image processing service for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
Parameter information storage means for storing parameter information representing various parameters necessary to execute the image processing service;
When receiving an image processing service execution command from the image processing apparatus, the image processing apparatus inputs various parameters necessary for the execution of the image processing service based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage means. Parameter menu information transmitting means for generating the parameter menu information required for sending back to the image processing apparatus,
After the said parameter menu information transmitting means has transmitted the parameter menu information, acquires the parameters necessary to carry out the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, service execution performs the image processing services in accordance with the acquired parameter Means,
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the execution instruction of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, and parameter menu information obtaining means for obtaining the parameter menu information,
A parameter menu image display control means for displaying the parameters menu image required to enter the parameters by the parameter menu information acquisition unit based on the acquired parameter menu information, the user operates the operating means,
During the display of the parameter menu image by said parameter menu image display control means, when the parameters when executing the image processing service to the service providing apparatus via the operation unit is determined, the determined parameters An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing device for display , and
Moreover, the para said parameter menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus
The meter menu information has a data structure that allows a menu image to be displayed on the display means by the operation of the parameter menu image display control means on the image processing apparatus side regardless of the specifications of the display means of the image processing apparatuses. An image processing system characterized by that. A plurality of image processing apparatuses for reading image data or forming an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices;
An image processing system comprising:
The service providing apparatus includes:
For each image processing service that can be provided to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means for storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing;
Parameter information storage means for storing parameter information representing various parameters necessary to execute the image processing service;
Upon receiving a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus, a desired image processing service is selected from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side based on service definition information stored in the definition information storage unit. Service menu information transmitting means for generating service menu information required for selecting and returning the service menu information to the image processing device;
After the service menu information transmitting means transmits the service menu information, upon receiving an execution command for a specific image processing service from the image processing apparatus, the image processing is performed based on the parameter information stored in the parameter information storage means. Parameter menu information transmitting means for generating parameter menu information required for inputting various parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service on the apparatus side and returning the parameter menu information to the image processing apparatus;
After the said parameter menu information transmitting means has transmitted the parameter menu information, acquires the parameters necessary to carry out the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, service execution performs the image processing services in accordance with the acquired parameter Means,
Each of the image processing devices
Display means for providing various information to the user;
Operation means for the user to input various commands;
When through the operation unit receiving a usage command of the service providing device, by transmitting the selection request of the image processing services to the service providing apparatus, a service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information,
A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. Service menu image display control means for displaying,
When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. Accordingly, a parameter menu information obtaining means for obtaining the parameter menu information,
While the service menu image is displayed by the service menu image display control means, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the parameter menu information acquisition means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deleting means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquiring means from the service providing device to display the service menu image after transmission;
Para wherein based on the parameter menu information parameter menu information acquisition unit acquires, required to enter the parameters by the user operating the operating unit
Parameter menu image display control means for displaying a meter menu image;
During the display of the parameter menu image by said parameter menu image display control means, when the parameters when executing the image processing service to the service providing apparatus via the operation unit is determined, the determined parameters An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing device for display , and
Moreover, the service menu information service menu information and parameter menu information transmission means and parameter menu information transmitting means transmits to the image processing apparatus, the irrespective of the specification of the display unit of the image processing apparatus, wherein the image processing apparatus An image processing system having a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means by operation of a service menu image display control means and a parameter menu image display control means on the side. The parameter information storage unit stores parameter information acquired from the image processing apparatus connected via the network, in addition to parameter information set in advance in the service providing apparatus. The image processing system according to claim 2 or claim 3. 2. The service providing apparatus includes a plurality of servers connected via the network, and each unit configuring the service providing apparatus is distributed and arranged in each server. The image processing system according to claim 4. In the service providing apparatus,
The service execution means includes a plurality of service supply means that are individually constructed for each image processing service to be executed and given identification information that can be specified on the network.
The service menu information transmitting means or parameter menu information transmitting means gives the service menu information or parameter menu information identification information representing the service execution means to which an execution command or parameter of the image processing service is to be transmitted, Configured to send,
In each of the image processing devices,
The image processing service starting means, when transmitting an execution command or parameter of the image processing service, specifies a destination service supply means based on identification information given to the service menu information or parameter menu information. ,
The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the image processing system is characterized in that: The parameter menu information transmission means includes:
Menu information in a selection format for displaying a menu image for displaying parameters candidates on the display means and allowing the user to select a menu image;
Menu information in an input format for displaying a menu image for allowing a user to directly input a parameter value on the display means;
The image processing system according to claim 2, wherein the menu information of any type is generated and transmitted as the parameter menu information. The parameter menu information transmitting means, when transmitting the menu information in the input format as the parameter menu information, gives data restriction information indicating the maximum amount of data that can be set as the parameter to the menu information,
The parameter menu image display control means limits the amount of parameter data input from the operation means when the data restriction information is added to the parameter menu information. The image processing system described. In the service providing apparatus,
The service menu information transmission means or parameter menu information transmission means is a hierarchy in which various items necessary for service selection or parameter input are layered from the upper items to the lower items as the service menu information or parameter menu information. The image processing system according to claim 1, wherein the image data is generated. The image processing system according to claim 9, wherein the service menu information or the parameter menu information is described in accordance with an XML (Extensible Markup Language) description method. The service menu information or parameter menu information includes item identification information (Form_Data) assigned to each hierarchical item, display name information (Disp_Name) for displaying each item on the display means in an identifiable manner, and The image according to claim 9 or 10, comprising at least one of data identification information (Value_Name) assigned to each data constituting reply information from the image processing apparatus side to the service providing apparatus side. Processing system. In each of the image processing apparatus, wherein the service menu information acquisition means or parameter menu information obtaining means, said service menu image display control means or parameter menu image display control means for displaying a service menu picture or parameter menu image on the display means The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 11, wherein service menu information or parameter menu information is acquired from the service providing device each time. In the service providing apparatus,
In the definition information storage means or parameter information storage means, the service menu information transmission means or the parameter menu information transmission means for generating the service menu information or parameter menu information in a plurality of different display languages, respectively. Display language information is stored,
The service menu information transmitting unit or the parameter menu information transmitting unit displays the display stored in the definition information storing unit or the parameter information storing unit when a display language is designated from the service menu information acquiring unit or the parameter menu information acquiring unit. According to the language information, generate and send menu information corresponding to the specified display language,
In each of the image processing devices,
The service menu information acquisition means or parameter menu information acquisition means, when acquiring service menu information or parameter menu information from the service providing device, by transmitting language information representing a display language on the display device, The menu information corresponding to the display language is acquired from the service providing apparatus. The image processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 12. A plurality of image processing apparatuses for reading image data or forming an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
  A service providing device that is connected to each of these image processing devices via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs various image processing services for image data handled by each of the image processing devices according to a command from each of the image processing devices; Consists of
  For each image processing service that the service providing apparatus can provide to the image processing apparatus, definition information storage means storing service definition information representing the contents of the image processing, and a request for selecting an image processing service from the image processing apparatus Upon receipt, service menu information required for selecting a desired image processing service from the plurality of image processing services on the image processing apparatus side is generated based on the service definition information stored in the definition information storage means And when the service menu information transmitting means for returning to the image processing apparatus and the service menu information transmitting means transmit the service menu information and then receiving an execution instruction for a specific image processing service from the image processing apparatus, Service execution means for performing an instructed image processing service,
  Regardless of the specifications of the display means of each image processing apparatus, the service menu image display control means on the image processing apparatus side operates as the service menu information transmitted from the service menu information transmission means to the image processing apparatus. Is a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means.
  An image processing apparatus in an image processing system, comprising:
  Display means for providing various information to the user;
  Operation means for the user to input various commands;
  Service menu information acquisition means for acquiring the service menu information by transmitting a request for selecting an image processing service to the service providing apparatus upon receiving a use instruction of the service providing apparatus via the operation means;
  A service menu image required for a user to select a desired image processing service from among the plurality of image processing services by operating the operation unit based on the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquisition unit. Service menu image display control means for displaying,
  When a specific image processing service is selected via the operation unit while the service menu image display control unit is displaying the service menu image, an execution command for the image processing service is transmitted to the service providing apparatus. An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means,
  While the service menu image display control means displays the service menu image, a specific image processing service is selected via the operation means, so that the image processing service activation means sends an execution command to the service providing apparatus. Service menu information deleting means for deleting the service menu information acquired by the service menu information acquiring means from the service providing apparatus to display the service menu image after transmission.
  An image processing apparatus. A plurality of image processing apparatuses for reading image data or forming an image on a recording medium based on the image data;
  A service providing apparatus that is connected to each of these image processing apparatuses via a network so that data communication is possible, and performs an image processing service for image data handled by each of the image processing apparatuses in accordance with a command from each of the image processing apparatuses Become
  When the service providing apparatus receives parameter information storage means for storing parameter information representing various parameters necessary for executing the image processing service, and an execution instruction for the image processing service from the image processing apparatus, the parameter Parameters that generate parameter menu information required for inputting various parameters necessary for execution of the image processing service on the image processing apparatus side based on the parameter information stored in the information storage means, and return the parameter menu information to the image processing apparatus After the menu information transmission unit and the parameter menu information transmission unit transmit the parameter menu information, the parameters necessary for executing the image processing service are acquired from the image processing apparatus. Processing
Service execution means for performing services,
  The parameter menu information transmitted from the parameter menu information transmitting unit to the image processing apparatus is determined by the operation of the parameter menu image display control unit on each image processing apparatus regardless of the specifications of the display unit of each image processing apparatus. And a data structure capable of displaying a menu image on the display means.
  An image processing apparatus in an image processing system, comprising:
  Display means for providing various information to the user;
  Operation means for the user to input various commands;
  A parameter menu information acquiring unit that acquires the parameter menu information by transmitting an execution command of an image processing service to the service providing device upon receiving a use command of the service providing device via the operation unit;
  Parameter menu image display control means for displaying a parameter menu image required for a user to input the parameters by operating the operation means based on the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquisition means;
  When parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation unit while the parameter menu image display control unit displays the parameter menu image, the determined parameters are An image processing service starting means for starting an image processing service by the service executing means by transmitting to the service providing device;
  The parameter menu image is displayed when parameters for causing the service providing apparatus to execute the image processing service are determined via the operation means during the display of the parameter menu image by the parameter menu image display control means. Parameter menu information deleting means for deleting the parameter menu information acquired by the parameter menu information acquiring means from the service providing apparatus for display.
  An image processing apparatus.

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