Device management apparatus

Abstract

This device management apparatus provides the ability to distinguish and manage multiple devices even when they share the same identification information, such as model name and serial number. The apparatus manages external devices connected via a network and includes: a communication unit for transmitting and receiving various data with the devices; a management ID issuing unit for issuing unique management IDs to the devices; a storage unit for storing device identification information, including the management ID and pre-determined device identification information; a display unit for displaying devices with issued management IDs in a list of managed devices; and a control unit for controlling the communication unit, management ID issuing unit, storage unit, and display unit. When the communication unit receives a connection request from a device via the network, the control unit determines whether the device has a management ID based on the device identification information obtained from the device. If the device does not have a management ID, the control unit issues a unique management ID to the device and sends it to the communication unit.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] This invention relates to a device management apparatus, and more specifically, to a device management apparatus for managing multiple devices connected via a network. Background Technology

[0002] Previously, the identification of equipment relied on inherent information such as model name and serial number.

[0003] However, assuming that devices with the same model name and serial number exist on the market, these devices might be treated as the same. This could result in problems such as mismatched device information or operating devices that are not what was intended.

[0004] In connection with such a problem, a previous invention has been disclosed that manages multiple data received from a network device that is being managed by associating them with the device identification number of that device, so as to distinguish the devices even when the device identification numbers are duplicated (see, for example, Patent Document 1).

[0005] Existing technical documents

[0006] Patent documents

[0007] Patent Document 1: Japanese Patent Application Publication No. 2016-92821 Summary of the Invention

[0008] The technical problem to be solved by the present invention

[0009] However, existing methods for identifying devices often rely on inherent device information such as MAC address and global IP address.

[0010] However, for example, sometimes the above information cannot be obtained depending on the type of device such as MFP and monitor, and other information needs to be used as the device identification information.

[0011] In such cases, for example, judging solely based on a combination of identification information such as model name and serial number cannot completely eliminate the possibility of duplication. Therefore, it is possible to cause management mismatches, such as issuing commands to the wrong devices.

[0012] The present invention was made in consideration of the above-mentioned situation, and its object is to provide a device management device that can distinguish and manage multiple devices even when there are multiple devices with the same identification information such as model name and serial number.

[0013] Problem-solving methods

[0014] (1) According to the present invention, a device management apparatus is provided for managing external devices connected via a network. The device management apparatus is characterized by comprising: a communication unit that transmits and receives various data with the device; a management ID issuing unit that issues a unique management ID to the device; a storage unit that stores device determination information of the device, including the management ID and predetermined device identification information; a display unit that displays the device to which the management ID has been issued in a list of managed devices; and a control unit that controls the communication unit, the management ID issuing unit, the storage unit, and the display unit. When the communication unit receives a connection request from the device via the network, the control unit determines whether the device has a management ID based on the device determination information obtained from the device. If the device does not have a management ID, the control unit causes the management ID issuing unit to issue a unique management ID to the device and sends the unique management ID to the communication unit.

[0015] Invention Effects

[0016] According to the present invention, a device management apparatus is available that can manage multiple devices that have the same identification information such as model name and serial number, even when there are multiple devices, and can distinguish these devices by issuing a management ID inherent to each device. Attached Figure Description

[0017] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of an equipment management system that includes the equipment management device and the digital multifunction printer of the present invention.

[0018] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic structure of a digital multifunction printer.

[0019] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic structure of the equipment management device.

[0020] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating the problems in equipment management using existing equipment management devices.

[0021] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 The flowchart shown is a process flow diagram of the equipment management device.

[0022] Figure 6 It means Figure 1 This is an illustration of an example of the equipment management process flow of the equipment management device shown.

[0023] Figure 7 It means in Figure 1 An explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list of connected devices displayed on the display unit of the device management device shown. Figure 7 (A) is an example of a screen where the mouse cursor is not hovered over the warning icon. Figure 7 (B) is an illustration of an example of a warning message displayed when the mouse cursor is overlaid on the warning icon.

[0024] Figure 8 It means in Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of an integrated message for a management ID displayed on the display unit of the device management device.

[0025] Figure 9 It means Figure 1 This is an illustration of an example of the equipment management process flow of the equipment management device shown.

[0026] Figure 10 It means in Figure 1 An explanatory diagram illustrating an example of a list of connected devices displayed on the display unit of the device management device shown. Figure 10 (A) is an example of a screen where the mouse cursor is not hovered over the warning icon. Figure 10 (B) is an illustration of an example of a warning message displayed when the mouse cursor is overlaid on the warning icon.

[0027] Figure 11 It means in Figure 1 The illustration shows an example of a discard setting message displayed on the display unit of the device management device.

[0028] Figure 12 It means Figure 1 This is an illustration of an example of the equipment management process flow of the equipment management device shown.

[0029] Figure 13 It means in Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of setting the device identification information displayed on the display unit of the device management device. Detailed Implementation

[0030] In this invention, "predetermined device identification information" is inherent information of the device, such as the device's model name, serial number, and other predetermined device information.

[0031] Device identification information is information selected by the user from the information that the device management device can obtain through an external network.

[0032] "Device identification information" is the information used to identify the device. In addition to device identification information, it also includes management ID information issued and assigned to each device from the device management device.

[0033] In addition, in the case of devices that have not been issued management ID information, the device identification information is the same as the device identification information.

[0034] The "List of Managed Devices" is a list of devices that are connected to the network containing the device management device and have been assigned a management ID.

[0035] Furthermore, a preferred embodiment of the present invention will be described.

[0036] (2) In the device management device of the present invention, if the device receiving the connection request by the communication unit does not have a management ID but the device with the same device identification information is in the list of managed objects, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that they may be the same device.

[0037] In this way, if a device requesting a connection does not have a management ID issued by the device management device and devices with the same identification information are in the list of managed devices, a warning message indicating that they may be the same device will be sent. Therefore, a device management device with high user convenience can be realized.

[0038] (3) In the device management apparatus of the present invention, if the device receiving the connection request by the communication unit has a management ID, or if the devices with the same management ID but different device identification information are in the list of managed objects, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device.

[0039] In this way, when a device with a connection request has a management ID issued by the device management device, and devices with the same management ID but different identification information are in the list of managed devices, a warning message may be sent indicating a connection from an unauthorized device. Therefore, a device management device with high user convenience can be achieved.

[0040] (4) In the device management device of the present invention, there may also be a device identification information setting unit, which accepts the setting of the device identification information and accepts the setting as follows: any combination of information that can be obtained from the device is used as device identification information.

[0041] Information that can be obtained from the aforementioned devices may include, for example, the device's model name, serial number, IP address, product number, series name, etc.

[0042] In this way, based on arbitrarily set device identification information, it is possible to determine whether a device with the same identification information as the device with the connection request exists in the list of managed devices, thus enabling a device management device with high user convenience.

[0043] (5) In the device management apparatus of the present invention, an operation unit may also be provided, which accepts various instructions from the user. When the device for which the communication unit receives a connection request has a management ID, or when devices with different management IDs but the same device identification information are in the list of managed objects, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that they may be the same device. When the operation unit receives an instruction indicating that they may be the same device, the management ID of the device for which the communication unit receives a connection request is integrated with the management ID of the device in the list of managed objects.

[0044] In this way, when a device with a connection request has a management ID issued by the device management device, and devices with different management IDs but the same identification information are in the list of managed devices, a warning message indicating that they may be the same device is sent. When the user receives an instruction indicating that they are the same device, the management ID of the device with the connection request is integrated with the management ID of the device in the list of managed devices. Therefore, a device management device with high user convenience can be realized.

[0045] (6) In the device management apparatus of the present invention, there may also be an operation unit that accepts various instructions from the user. When the operation unit receives an input that may be a response indicating a connection from an unauthorized device, the control unit causes the information received by the device that received the connection request from the communication unit to be discarded.

[0046] In this way, after notifying the user of a warning message that the connection may be from an unauthorized device, and if the user responds that the connection may be from an unauthorized device, the information from the device that made the connection request is discarded. Therefore, a device management device with high user convenience can be achieved.

[0047] The present invention will now be described in further detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Furthermore, all aspects of the following description are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting the scope of the invention.

[0048] [Implementation Method 1]

[0049] <Overview of the Structure of Equipment Management System 100>

[0050] based on Figure 1The structure of a device management system 100, which includes the device management apparatus of the present invention and, as an example, a digital multifunction printer 1 that is the object of its management, will be described.

[0051] The device of the present invention is not limited to the digital multifunction printer 1. It can be applied to all kinds of devices as long as they can be connected via a wired or wireless network 3.

[0052] For example, it can also be used in portable devices such as personal computers (PCs) and smartphones, as well as televisions and DVD recorders.

[0053] Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing the schematic structure of an equipment management system 100 that includes the equipment management device 2 and the digital multifunction printer 1 of the present invention.

[0054] Figure 1 In the example, the device management system 100 consists of digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B, device management device 2, and network 3 connected via a wired or wireless network 3.

[0055] In addition, in the following description, digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B will be referred to as digital multifunction printer 1.

[0056] also, Figure 1 The structure shown is just an example; the equipment management system 100 can also contain any number and type of equipment.

[0057] A digital multifunction printer (MFP) is a multifunction printer that performs digital processing of image data and has functions such as copying, printing, scanning, and faxing.

[0058] The equipment management device 2 is a device that identifies and manages devices such as the digital multifunction printer 1 via the network 3.

[0059] Network 3 is a wired or wireless network, which can be any type of network such as a LAN, a wide area network (WAN) such as the Internet, or a dedicated communication line.

[0060] <Simplified Structure of Digital Multifunction Printer 1>

[0061] Next, based on Figure 2 The general structure of the digital multifunction printer 1 will be described.

[0062] Figure 2 It means Figure 1 The diagram shows a schematic structure of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0063] like Figure 2As shown, the digital multifunction printer 1 of the present invention includes a control unit 10, an image data acquisition unit 11, an image forming unit 12, a storage unit 13, an image processing unit 14, a communication unit 15, a timer 16, and an operation panel 17.

[0064] The following describes the structural elements of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0065] The control unit 10 is the part that controls the digital multifunction printer 1 in a unified manner, and consists of a CPU, RAM, ROM, various interface circuits, etc.

[0066] The control unit 10 performs detection of various sensors, monitoring and control of all loads such as motors, clutches, and operation panel 17 in order to control the overall operation of the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0067] The image data acquisition unit 11 is a unit that detects and reads the originals placed on the original document table and the originals transported from the original document tray, and converts them into appropriate electrical signals to generate image data.

[0068] The image forming unit 12 is the part that prints out image data generated by the image data acquisition unit 11 and processed by the image processing unit 14 onto paper, and it includes LSU121.

[0069] LSU121 is a device that uses a laser corresponding to image information composed of digital signals acquired by the image data acquisition unit 11 to irradiate the surface of a photosensitive drum in a charged state and form an electrostatic latent image.

[0070] Storage unit 13 stores information related to printing and other operations, as well as image data and other data required for the execution of these operations.

[0071] The image processing unit 14 is a unit that processes image data input from the image data acquisition unit 11 in a manner suitable for output such as magnification or reduction, according to instructions from the operation unit 172.

[0072] In addition, the communication unit 15 is a part that communicates with the device management device 2, other image forming devices, portable information terminals, information processing devices, fax devices, etc., and sends and receives various information such as emails and faxes with these external devices.

[0073] Timer 16 is the part that measures time, for example, by obtaining the time through the built-in clock or network 3.

[0074] The operation panel 17 is composed of a display panel made of a liquid crystal panel or the like and a touch panel arranged on top of the display panel and detecting the position of a finger touch, and includes a display section 171 and an operation section 172.

[0075] Display unit 171 is the part that displays various information.

[0076] The display unit 171 is a display device such as a monitor or linear display, which is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, or an EL display, and is used to display electronic data such as the processing status of the operating system and application software.

[0077] The control unit 10 displays the operation and status of the digital multifunction printer 1 via the display unit 171.

[0078] The operation unit 172 is an interface for operating the digital multifunction printer 1 and is the part that receives instructions from the user.

[0079] <Brief Structure of Equipment Management Device 2>

[0080] Next, based on Figure 3 The general structure of the equipment management device 2 will be described.

[0081] Figure 3 It means Figure 1 A block diagram showing the general structure of the equipment management device 2.

[0082] like Figure 3 As shown, the device management device 2 of the present invention includes a control unit 20, a storage unit 21, an image processing unit 22, a communication unit 23, a display unit 24, an operation unit 25, and a management ID issuance unit 26.

[0083] The control unit 20 is part of the unified control equipment management device 2, and consists of CPU, RAM, ROM, various interface circuits, etc.

[0084] The storage unit 21 contains components and storage media for storing information, storage control programs, etc., required to realize various functions of the device management device 2. For example, it uses semiconductor components such as RAM and ROM, and storage media such as hard disks, flash memory units, and SSDs.

[0085] Storage unit 21 stores user login names, passwords, and other information stored for user authentication.

[0086] The image processing unit 22 is a unit that processes image data by converting it into appropriate electrical signals for output such as magnification or reduction.

[0087] The communication unit 23 is the part that communicates with the external digital multifunction printer 1 via the network 3 and sends instructions for printing and other operations, original image data, etc.

[0088] Display unit 24 is the part that displays various information.

[0089] The display unit 24 is a display device such as a monitor or linear display, which is composed of, for example, a CRT display, a liquid crystal display, or an EL display, and is used to display electronic data such as the processing status of the operating system and application software.

[0090] The control unit 20 displays the operation and status of the equipment management device 2 via the display unit 24.

[0091] The operation unit 25 is an interface for operating the equipment management device 2 and is the part that receives instructions from the user.

[0092] The operation unit 25 consists of an arrangement of multiple keys. Alternatively, it may have a touch panel, similar to the digital multifunction printer 1.

[0093] The management ID issuance unit 26 is the unit that issues management IDs to devices such as the digital multifunction printer 1 that should be initially connected to the equipment management system 100.

[0094] <Problems with existing equipment management device 2>

[0095] Next, based on Figure 4 The problems with the existing equipment management device 2 are explained.

[0096] Figure 4 This is an explanatory diagram showing the problems in the existing equipment management device 2.

[0097] Figure 4 In the example, we envision a situation where, after the equipment management system 100 connects to the digital multifunction printer 1A, it then connects to the digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0098] Here, digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B both have the same model name (MX-3650FN) and serial number (D111111).

[0099] In this case, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1A to the equipment management system 100, such as Figure 4 As shown in (A), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0100] At this time, in order to identify the digital multifunction printer 1A, the equipment management device 2 obtains the pre-determined equipment identification information, namely the model name (MX-3650FN), serial number (D111111), and management ID (if the distribution has been completed).

[0101] Next, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1B to the equipment management system 100, as follows: Figure 4 As shown in (B), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0102] At this time, the information received in the connection request includes the device identification information for the digital multifunction printer 1B, namely the model name (MX-3650FN) and serial number (D111111).

[0103] However, since digital multifunction printer 1B has the exact same device identification information as digital multifunction printer 1A, it is likely that the device management device 2 will mistakenly identify digital multifunction printer 1B as the same device as digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0104] As a result, such as Figure 4 As shown in (C), the operation request that should have been sent to digital multifunction printer 1A was mistakenly sent to digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0105] In addition, such as Figure 4 As shown in (D), after the digital multifunction printer 1A reports the latest information to the equipment management device 2, as Figure 4 As shown in (E), the digital multifunction printer 1B reports the latest information to the equipment management device 2.

[0106] In this situation, although digital multifunction printer 1B is a completely different device from digital multifunction printer 1A, the device management device 2 may mistakenly store this latest information as information from the same device.

[0107] Thus, when the device identification information of digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B, which should be separate, is duplicated for some reason, problems such as mismatched management and incorrect reception of information from different devices sometimes arise.

[0108] <Flowchart of Equipment Management Processing of the Equipment Management Device 2 of the Present Invention>

[0109] Next, based on Figure 5 The process of equipment management processing of the equipment management device 2 of the present invention will be described.

[0110] Figure 5 It means Figure 1 The flowchart of the equipment management process of the equipment management device 2 shown is shown.

[0111] exist Figure 5 In step S1, the control unit 20 of the device management device 2 determines whether there is a connection request from the device (step S1).

[0112] If a connection request is received from a device (if the determination in step S1 is "yes"), in step S2, the control unit 20 determines whether the device with the connection request has the management ID information issued by the device management device 2 (step S2).

[0113] In addition, the control unit 20 also receives the device's model name, serial number, and other identification information, as well as device identification information including the management ID, from the device and connection request.

[0114] On the other hand, if there is no connection request from the device (if the determination in step S1 is "no"), the control unit 20 repeats the determination in step S1.

[0115] Next, in step S2, if the device with the connection request does not have the ID information issued by the device management device 2 (if the determination in step S2 is "no"), in step S3, the control unit 20 issues a management ID to the device (step S3).

[0116] In this way, a management ID is assigned to the device initially connected to the device management system 100.

[0117] Subsequently, the control unit 20 terminates the processing.

[0118] Figure 6 It means Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the equipment management process of the equipment management device 2 shown.

[0119] Figure 6 In the example, we envision a situation where, after the equipment management system 100 connects to the digital multifunction printer 1A, it then connects to the digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0120] In addition, both digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B have the same model name (MX-3650FN) and serial number (D111111), and neither has been issued a management ID.

[0121] In this case, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1A to the equipment management system 100, such as Figure 6 As shown in (A), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0122] When the digital multifunction printer 1A is initially connected, the device management device 2 obtains identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111) as device identification information, but the management ID has not yet been issued, so it cannot be obtained.

[0123] Therefore, as Figure 6 As shown in (B), the device management device 2 causes the management ID issuing unit 26 to issue a management ID (0000001) to the digital multifunction printer 1A, and sends the management ID (0000001) to the communication unit 23.

[0124] Next, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1B to the equipment management system 100, as follows: Figure 6As shown in (C), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0125] When the digital multifunction printer 1B is initially connected, the device management device 2 obtains identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111), but the management ID has not yet been issued, so it cannot be obtained.

[0126] Here, as Figure 6 As shown in (D), the device management device 2 causes the management ID issuing unit 26 to issue a management ID (0000005) to the digital multifunction printer 1B, and sends the management ID (0000005) to the communication unit 23.

[0127] As a result, such as Figure 6 As shown in (E), even if the device management device 2 sends an operation request to the digital multifunction printer 1A, it distinguishes it from the digital multifunction printer 1B by using the management ID. Therefore, the operation request is correctly sent to the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0128] In addition, such as Figure 6 As shown in (F), after the digital multifunction printer 1A reports the latest information to the equipment management device 2, as follows: Figure 6 As shown in (G), the digital multifunction printer 1B reports the latest information to the equipment management device 2.

[0129] In this case, digital multifunction printer 1B is also distinguished from digital multifunction printer 1A by a management ID. Therefore, the device management device 2 can correctly save this latest information as information for digital multifunction printers 1A and 1B respectively.

[0130] Next, in Figure 5 In step S2, if the device with the connection request has the ID information issued by the device management device 2 (if the determination in step S2 is "yes"), in step S4, the control unit 20 determines whether the management ID of the device is a registered ID (step S4).

[0131] If the management ID of the device is not a registered ID (if the determination in step S4 is "no"), in step S5, the control unit 20 registers the device as a managed object (step S5).

[0132] Next, in step S6, the control unit 20 determines whether there is a device with the same identification information as the device but a different management ID (step S6).

[0133] If such a device exists (if the determination in step S6 is "yes"), in step S7, the control unit 20 causes the display unit 24 to display a warning message indicating that the device requesting the connection may be the same device as a device with a different management ID (step S7).

[0134] On the other hand, if such a device does not exist (if the determination in step S6 is "no"), the control unit 20 ends the process.

[0135] Figure 7 It means in Figure 1 An explanatory diagram showing an example of a list of connected devices displayed on the display unit 24 of the device management device 2.

[0136] Figure 7 (A) is an example of a screen where the mouse cursor is not hovered over the warning icon. Figure 7 (B) is an illustration of an example of a warning message displayed when the mouse cursor is overlaid on the warning icon.

[0137] Figure 7 In the device management device 2, a list of devices with connection requests is displayed in the order in which the connection requests were received.

[0138] In this list, the device with management ID (0000001) and the device with management ID (0000005) have the same serial number (D111111).

[0139] Therefore, as Figure 7 As shown in (A), a warning icon is displayed next to the administrative ID (0000001) and the administrative ID (0000005) to draw the user's attention. Figure 7 In the example, the ! sign is enclosed by a triangle.

[0140] Here, if the user hovers the mouse cursor over the warning icon, then... Figure 7 As shown in (B), a warning message appears on display unit 24: "The same device may be registered with different management IDs. Click the warning icon for details."

[0141] Figure 8 It means in Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram showing an example of an integrated message for a management ID displayed on the display unit 24 of the device management device 2.

[0142] Figure 8 In the screen, if the user clicks the warning icon, then as follows: Figure 10As shown, under the title "Integration of Management IDs", messages such as "Integration destination management ID: 0000001" and "Integration of the following management IDs: 0000001, 0000005" are displayed on display unit 24.

[0143] also, Figure 8 In the example, users can also designate other administrative IDs (0000005) as the integration destination by clicking the inverted triangle icon (▼) of the integration destination's administrative ID.

[0144] Users can choose whether to integrate management IDs by selecting either the "Integrate" or "Cancel" button.

[0145] Figure 8 In the example, when the "Integrate" button is selected, the device with management ID (0000005) is integrated with the device with management ID (0000001) as the same device.

[0146] On the other hand, if the "Cancel" button is selected, the device with management ID (0000001) and the device with management ID (0000005) are registered as different devices.

[0147] Next, in Figure 5 In step S8, if the device requesting the connection is the same device as a device with a different management ID, then in step S9, if the user has confirmed the connection (if the determination in step S8 is "yes"), the control unit 20 integrates the management IDs of the two devices and considers them as the same device (step S9), and the process ends.

[0148] On the other hand, if it is not the same device, the control unit 20 ends the process if the user has made a determination (if the determination in step S8 is "no").

[0149] Figure 9 It means Figure 1 This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the equipment management process of the equipment management device 2 shown.

[0150] Figure 9 Imagine a scenario where, after the equipment management system 100 is connected to the digital multifunction printer 1A, a malfunction causes the management ID issued and registered to the digital multifunction printer 1A to be lost.

[0151] The digital multifunction printer 1A has a model name (MX-3650FN) and a serial number (D111111).

[0152] In this case, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1A to the equipment management system 100, such as Figure 9 As shown in (A), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0153] When the digital multifunction printer 1A is initially connected, the device management device 2 obtains the identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111), but the management ID has not yet been issued, so it cannot be obtained.

[0154] Here, as Figure 9 As shown in (B), the device management device 2 causes the management ID issuing unit 26 to issue a management ID (0000001) to the digital multifunction printer 1A, and sends the management ID (0000001) to the communication unit 23.

[0155] However, the management ID (0000001) issued and registered to the digital multifunction printer 1A was subsequently lost due to a malfunction.

[0156] In this case, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1A to the equipment management system 100, such as Figure 9 As shown in (C), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0157] Furthermore, the device management device 2 attempts to obtain identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111) to identify the digital multifunction printer 1A, but the management ID is lost, so it cannot be obtained.

[0158] Here, as Figure 9 As shown in (D), the device management device 2 causes the management ID issuing unit 26 to issue a management ID (0000005) to the digital multifunction printer 1A, and sends the management ID (0000005) to the communication unit 23.

[0159] At this time, a digital multifunction printer 1A with the same identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111) has been registered (management ID: 0000005). Therefore, the display unit 24 displays a warning message to the user that it may be the same device.

[0160] Subsequently, if the user receives an instruction that the management ID should be integrated because they are from the same device, such as... Figure 9 As shown in (E), the management ID (0000005) of the digital multifunction printer 1A is integrated with the registered management ID (0000001).

[0161] As a result, such as Figure 9As shown in (F), when the digital multifunction printer 1A reports the latest information to the equipment management device 2, it reports to the equipment management device 2 using the management ID (0000001) before the fault.

[0162] In this way, even if the information of the management ID is lost due to malfunctions, the management ID of the digital multifunction printer 1 after repair is integrated with the management ID of the digital multifunction printer 1 in the list of managed devices, so a device management device 2 with high user convenience can be realized.

[0163] On the other hand, Figure 5 In step S4, if the management ID of the device with the connection request is a registered ID (if step S4 is "yes"), in step S10, the control unit 20 determines whether the identification information of the device is consistent with the registered information (step S10).

[0164] If the identification information of the device is inconsistent with the registration information (if the determination in step S10 is "no"), in step S11, the control unit 20 causes the display unit 24 to display a warning message indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device (step S11).

[0165] Next, in step S12, if the device is an unauthorized device, the control unit 20 determines whether it has been authorized by the user (step S12).

[0166] If the device is an unauthorized device, then if the user has identified it (if the determination in step S12 is "yes"), in step S13, the control unit 20 discards the information from the device (step S13) and ends the process.

[0167] On the other hand, in step S10, if the identification information of the device is consistent with the registered information (if the determination in step S10 is "yes"), the control unit 20 ends the process.

[0168] Furthermore, in step S12, if the device is not an unauthorized device, the control unit 20 will end the process even if the user has made a determination (if the determination in step S12 is "no").

[0169] Figure 10 It means in Figure 1 An explanatory diagram showing an example of a list of connected devices displayed on the display unit 24 of the device management device 2.

[0170] Figure 10 (A) is an example of a screen where the mouse cursor is not hovered over the warning icon. Figure 10(B) is an illustration of an example of a warning message displayed when the mouse cursor is overlaid on the warning icon.

[0171] Figure 10 In the device management device 2, a list of devices with connection requests is displayed in the order in which the connection requests were received.

[0172] In this list, the first and second devices have the same management ID and model name (management ID: 0000001, model name: PN-Y436), but their serial numbers are different (D111111) and (D111112) respectively.

[0173] Therefore, as Figure 10 As shown in (A), warning icons are displayed next to the management ID (0000001) of the first and second devices in the list to draw the user's attention. Figure 10 In the example, the X symbol enclosed in a circle.

[0174] Here, if the user hovers the mouse cursor over the warning icon, then... Figure 10 As shown in (B), a warning message such as "This may be an unauthorized access. Click the warning icon for details" is displayed on display unit 24.

[0175] Figure 11 It means in Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of a discard setting message displayed on the display unit 24 of the device management device 2.

[0176] exist Figure 10 In the screen, if the user clicks the warning icon, then as follows: Figure 11 As shown, under the heading "Information Discard Settings", a message appears on display unit 24: "Discard information from the following devices." The message reads: "Management ID: 0000001, Model Name: PN-Y436, Serial Number: D111112".

[0177] Users can choose whether to discard the information by selecting either the "OK" or "Cancel" button.

[0178] Figure 11 In the example, if the "OK" button is selected, the information from the device with serial number (D111112) is discarded.

[0179] On the other hand, when the "Cancel" button is selected, the information from the device is not discarded, but integrated with the information of the management ID (0000001).

[0180] Figure 12 It means Figure 1This is an explanatory diagram illustrating an example of the equipment management process of the equipment management device 2 shown.

[0181] Figure 12 Imagine a scenario where, after the digital multifunction printer 1A is connected to the equipment management system 100, a digital multifunction printer 1B is connected to impersonate the digital multifunction printer 1A for illegal purposes.

[0182] The management ID and model name of digital multifunction printer 1A and digital multifunction printer 1B are the same (management ID: 0000001, model name: PN-Y436), but their serial numbers are different (D111111) and (D111112) respectively.

[0183] In this case, when connecting the digital multifunction printer 1A to the equipment management system 100, such as Figure 12 As shown in (A), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1A.

[0184] When the digital multifunction printer 1A is initially connected, the device management device 2 obtains the identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111111), but the management ID has not yet been issued, so it cannot be obtained.

[0185] Here, as Figure 12 As shown in (B), the device management device 2 causes the management ID issuing unit 26 to issue a management ID (0000001) to the digital multifunction printer 1A, and sends the management ID (0000001) to the communication unit 23.

[0186] Subsequently, when a digital multifunction printer 1B, masquerading as digital multifunction printer 1A, is connected to the equipment management system 100 for illegal purposes, such as Figure 11 As shown in (C), the device management device 2 receives a connection request from the digital multifunction printer 1B.

[0187] Then, in order to identify the digital multifunction printer 1B, the device management device 2 obtains identification information (model name: MX-3650FN, serial number: D111112) and management ID (0000001).

[0188] At this time, the digital multifunction printer 1B has the same management ID (0000001) and model name (MX-3650FN) as the digital multifunction printer 1A that has been registered, but has a different serial number (D111112). Therefore, the display unit 24 displays a warning message to the user that the device may be unauthorized.

[0189] Subsequently, if the user receives an instruction that information from the digital multifunction printer 1B should be discarded because it is an unauthorized device, such as... Figure 12As shown in (D), even if the digital multifunction printer 1B reports the latest information to the device management device 2 via the management ID (0000001), the report is discarded.

[0190] On the other hand, such as Figure 12 As shown in (E), when the digital multifunction printer 1A reports the latest information to the device management device 2 via the management ID (0000001), the latest information is accepted by the device management device 2.

[0191] Thus, when a digital multifunction printer 1 with a connection request has a management ID issued by the device management device 2, and devices with the same management ID but different identification information are in the list of managed devices, a warning message is sent indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device.

[0192] Then, after notifying the user of a warning message that the connection may be from an unauthorized device, and if the user replies that the connection may be from an unauthorized device, the information from the digital multifunction printer 1 that has a connection request is discarded. Thus, the device management device 2, which provides high convenience to the user, is able to achieve this.

[0193] Figure 13 It means in Figure 1 This diagram illustrates an example of setting device identification information displayed on the display unit 24 of the device management device 2.

[0194] The above example shows the use of model name and serial number as device identification information, but information that can be arbitrarily set by the user from the information that can be obtained from the device can also be used as device identification information.

[0195] Figure 13 The example shown below illustrates this: In a title like "Device Identification Information - Multifunction Printer -", the user selects two of the four pieces of information, namely "Device Identification Information: Model Name, Serial Number", "IP Address, Product Number", to set.

[0196] The device identification information can also be displayed when the user clicks (or right-clicks) the model name and serial number of the device displayed in the connected device list.

[0197] In this way, based on arbitrarily set device identification information, it can determine whether the digital multifunction printer 1 with the same identification information as the digital multifunction printer 1 that has a connection request is in the list of managed devices. Therefore, it can realize a device management device 2 with high user convenience.

[0198] The present invention also includes a combination of any of the above-described methods.

[0199] In addition to the embodiments described above, various modifications are possible with respect to this invention. It should be understood that these modifications fall within the scope of this invention. This invention should encompass all modifications equivalent to the claims and within the scope described above.

[0200] Explanation of reference numerals in the attached figures

[0201] 1, 1A, 1B... Digital multifunction printer; 2... Equipment management device; 3... Network; 10, 20... Control unit; 11... Image data acquisition unit; 12... Image forming unit; 13, 21... Storage unit; 14, 22... Image processing unit; 15, 23... Communication unit; 16... Timer; 17... Operation panel; 24, 171... Display unit; 25, 182... Operation unit; 26... Management ID issuance unit; 100... Equipment management system; 121... LSU.

Claims

1. A device management apparatus for managing external devices connected via a network, characterized in that it comprises: The communication unit, which transmits and receives various data with the aforementioned device; The management ID issuing department issues unique management IDs to the device. The storage unit stores device identification information of the device, including the management ID and pre-determined device identification information; Display unit; and The control unit controls the communication unit, the management ID issuance unit, the storage unit, and the display unit. When the communication unit receives a connection request from the device via the network, the control unit determines whether the device has the management ID based on the device identification information obtained from the device included in the connection request. If the device has the management ID, it is determined whether the management ID of the device is the same as the management ID of the device identification information stored in the storage unit. If the management IDs are the same, it is further determined whether the device identification information obtained from the device is the same as the device identification information of the device identification information stored in the storage unit. If the management ID is the same but the device identification information is different, the display unit will show a pre-determined warning message indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device. Upon receiving input from the user indicating an unauthorized device, the information received from the device will be discarded. If the device does not have the management ID, the management ID issuing unit issues a unique management ID to the device and sends the unique management ID to the communication unit. In the case where the storage unit stores a device with the same device identification information as the device identification information, the display unit displays a pre-determined warning message indicating that it may be the same device. When the user receives input indicating that it is the same device, the issued management ID is integrated with the management ID of the device stored in the storage unit.

2. The equipment management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the management ID of the device to which the communication unit receives the connection request is different from the management ID stored in the storage unit, but the device identification information that is the same as the device identification information of the device obtained from the device is stored in the storage unit, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that they may be the same device.

3. The equipment management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, If the device that receives the connection request from the communication unit has the management ID, and the device identification information that is the same as the management ID but is the same as the device identification information is not stored in the storage unit, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device.

4. The equipment management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also includes a device identification information setting unit, which accepts the setting of the device identification information. The device identification information setting unit accepts the following setting: any combination of information that can be obtained from the device is used as the device identification information.

5. The equipment management device according to claim 1, characterized in that, It also has: The operations unit accepts various commands from the user. When the communication unit receives the connection request from the device with the management ID, and devices with different management IDs but the same device identification information exist in the list of managed objects, the control unit causes the display unit to display a pre-determined warning message indicating that they may be the same device. When the operation unit receives an input indicating that they are the same device, the control unit integrates the management ID of the device that received the connection request from the communication unit with the management ID of the device in the list of managed objects.

6. The equipment management device according to claim 3, characterized in that, It also has an operating unit that accepts various commands from the user. When the operation unit receives an input indicating that the connection may be from an unauthorized device, the control unit discards the information received from the device that received the connection request from the communication unit.

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