Information processing system, information processing method, and computer readable medium

Abstract

The invention discloses an information processing system, an information processing method, and a computer readable medium. The information processing system includes: at least one memory; and at least one processor that accepts, from an external device, a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission period different for each type of data, and transmits data to the external device based on the transmission request.

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an information processing system, an information processing method and a computer-readable medium. Background Art

[0002] Japanese Patent Gazette No. 2018-156493 discloses a technology in which, in an information processing device connected to a computer outside the firewall via a firewall, when querying the computer for control instructions to a device inside the firewall at a specified frequency, the frequency of querying the computer is increased when data related to the device collected from the device meets specified conditions. Summary of the invention

[0003] An object of the present invention is to provide an information processing system and an information processing program that can suppress the communication volume when synchronizing data recorded in a memory with an external device, compared with a case where all data is sent to the external device at the same time regardless of the type of data.

[0004] According to a first aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing system comprising: at least one memory; and at least one processor, wherein the processor receives a sending request including a type of data to be sent and a different sending period for each type of the data from an external device, and sends data to the external device based on the sending request.

[0005] According to a second aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system according to the first aspect, the processor transmits data based on the transmission request including a period determined according to a change in data as the transmission period.

[0006] According to the third aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the second aspect, as far as the processor is concerned, data is sent based on the sending request with the sending period including a period determined based on a change in data acquired within the information processing system and the elapsed time after the change occurs.

[0007] According to the fourth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the second aspect, as far as the processor is concerned, when there is a predetermined change in the data acquired within the information processing system from the data last sent to the external device as a change of the data, data is sent based on the sending request.

[0008] According to the fifth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the fourth aspect, as far as the processor is concerned, when the latest data obtained in the information processing system as the predetermined change deviates from the range determined by the data mean and standard deviation of a predetermined number of samples obtained in the information processing system, data is sent based on the sending request.

[0009] According to the sixth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the second aspect, with respect to the processor, for the type of the data as the remaining amount of consumables consumed in the information processing system, data is sent based on the sending request including a period determined according to the remaining amount as the sending period.

[0010] According to a seventh aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the sixth aspect, when the remaining amount is larger than a preset threshold, the processor reduces the communication frequency compared to when the remaining amount is less than the threshold.

[0011] According to the eighth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the seventh aspect, as far as the processor is concerned, even if the margin is larger than a preset threshold, the communication frequency is increased when the rate of reduction of the margin exceeds a preset threshold.

[0012] According to the ninth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on the first aspect, with respect to the processor, for the type of the data which is a set value set in the information processing system, data is sent based on the sending request including a period determined according to the set value as the sending period.

[0013] According to the tenth aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on any one of the first to ninth aspects, as far as the processor is concerned, data is sent based on the sending request including a period determined according to the types of multiple data summarized according to the same classification as the sending period.

[0014] According to the eleventh aspect of the present invention, in the information processing system based on any one of the first to tenth aspects, as far as the processor is concerned, when there are multiple types of data to be sent within a predetermined time, the data is sent based on the sending request including a period determined based on the multiple types of data as the sending period.

[0015] According to the twelfth aspect of the present invention, there is provided a computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute processing, wherein, with respect to the processing, a sending request including a type of data to be sent and a different sending period for each type of the data is received from an external device, and data is sent to the external device based on the sending request.

[0016] According to a thirteenth aspect of the present invention, there is provided an information processing method for receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a different transmission period for each type of the data from an external device, and transmitting data to the external device based on the transmission request.

[0017] (Effect)

[0018] According to the first and thirteenth aspects, when data recorded in the memory is synchronized with an external device, the communication volume can be suppressed compared to a case where all data is simultaneously transmitted to the external device regardless of the type of data.

[0019] According to the second aspect, the communication volume can be suppressed compared with the case where data is transmitted periodically in one type of data.

[0020] According to the third aspect, compared with a case where data is transmitted immediately after a change in data occurs, the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0021] According to the fourth aspect, compared with the case where data is transmitted when there is a preset change from data before the last transmitted data, the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0022] According to the fifth aspect, the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where the change of data of only one sample is used as the preset change.

[0023] According to the sixth aspect, compared with a case where data is transmitted regularly regardless of the remaining amount of consumables, the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0024] According to the seventh aspect, the communication volume can be suppressed compared to a case where the communication frequency is high.

[0025] According to the eighth aspect, compared with the case where the communication frequency is kept low when the remaining amount of consumables is equal to or greater than the threshold, it is possible to suppress omission of transmission of necessary data.

[0026] According to the ninth aspect, compared with a case where data is transmitted periodically regardless of a set value, the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0027] According to the tenth aspect, a plurality of types of the data summarized in the same classification can be summarized and provided.

[0028] According to the eleventh aspect, compared with a case where a plurality of types of data are transmitted separately within a preset time, the amount of data communication can be suppressed.

[0029] According to the twelfth aspect, when data recorded in the memory is synchronized with an external device, the communication volume can be suppressed compared to a case where all data is simultaneously transmitted to the external device regardless of the type of data. BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0030] Figure 1 is a diagram showing a system configuration of a synchronization processing system according to an embodiment of the present invention;

[0031] Figure 2 is a diagram for explaining synchronization processing performed between a cloud server and an image forming apparatus;

[0032] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing a hardware configuration of an image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;

[0033] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the control device involved in this embodiment;

[0034] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a communication frequency table;

[0035] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the shading device involved in this embodiment;

[0036] Figure 7 is a flowchart showing an example of a process at startup in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;

[0037] Figure 8 is a flowchart showing an example of synchronization processing in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;

[0038] Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing another example of synchronization processing in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;

[0039] Fig.10 is a flowchart showing a synchronization process 1 as a modified example of the synchronization process in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment;

[0040] Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing synchronization processing 2 which is a modified example of the synchronization processing in the image forming apparatus according to the present embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION

[0041] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings.

[0042] <Synchronous processing system>

[0043] Figure 1 It is a diagram showing a system configuration of a synchronization processing system according to one embodiment of the present invention. Figure 2 This is a diagram for explaining synchronization processing performed between the cloud server 20 and the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C.

[0044] like Figure 1 As shown, the synchronization processing system of one embodiment of the present invention is a structure in which three image forming devices 10A to 10C installed at a location A and a cloud server 20 are connected via the Internet 30. In addition, the image forming devices 10A to 10C are connected to each other via a network 40 in the location A. In addition, the image forming devices 10A to 10C are devices called so-called multifunction machines that have multiple functions such as a printing function, a scanning function, a copying function, and a fax function. The image forming devices 10A to 10C are each an example of an information processing system in the technology of the present invention.

[0045] like Figure 2 As shown, a shadow device (virtual device) 22 is provided on the cloud server 20, and the shadow device 22 synchronizes and maintains data 100A to 100C such as various settings and states stored in the image forming devices 10A to 10C as physical devices connected via the Internet 30 with the image forming devices 10A to 10C. Specifically, the shadow device 22 on the cloud server 20 synchronizes the data 100A to 100C stored in the image forming devices 10A to 10C with the image forming devices 10A to 10C, and stores the data as data 22A to 22C. In addition, the shadow device 22 is an example of an external device in the technology of the present invention.

[0046] Generally speaking, a structure that can be directly connected to a physical device existing within a firewall is not preferred in terms of security. Therefore, by sending data 100A to 100C stored in the physical device (image forming device 10A to 10C) from the physical device (image forming device 10A to 10C) to the shadow device 22 on the cloud server 20, synchronization processing is performed between the physical device and the shadow device 22.

[0047] By using the shadow device 22 in this way, for example, even when the external management terminal 50 that manages the physical device cannot be directly connected to the physical device as the management object, it is possible to perform management such as confirmation of the state of the physical device and setting change via the shadow device 22 in the cloud server 20. In addition, the synchronization process will be described in detail later.

[0048] <Image forming device>

[0049] Next, the image forming apparatus 10A in the synchronization processing system of the present embodiment will be described in detail. In the following description, the operation of the image forming apparatus 10A will be mainly described, but the image forming apparatuses 10B, 10C, etc. also have the same configuration. Figure 3 1 is a block diagram showing the hardware configuration of the image forming apparatus 10A in the present embodiment.

[0050] like Figure 3 As shown in FIG. 1 , the image forming apparatus 10A is a so-called multifunction machine having multiple functions such as a printing function, a scanning function, a copying function, and a fax function. Figure 3 As shown, the image forming apparatus 10A includes a control device 11 , an image reading unit 12 , an image forming unit 13 , a communication unit 14 , an input unit 15 , and a display unit 16 . These components are connected to each other via a control bus 18 .

[0051] The image reading unit 12 is a component (eg, a scanner) that reads an image of a document. The image reading unit 12 generates image data by optically reading an image of a document and converting it into a digital signal. In addition, characters are included in the image.

[0052] The image forming unit 13 is a structural unit that forms an image on a recording medium such as paper. The image forming unit 13 forms an image on the recording medium by, for example, an electrophotographic method that performs each process of charging, exposure, development, transfer, and fixing. In addition, the image forming unit 13 may also form an image on the recording medium by other methods such as an inkjet method.

[0053] The communication unit 14 is a component for communicating with other devices such as the image forming apparatuses 10B and 10C and the shadow device 22 on the cloud server 20. Specifically, the communication unit 14 communicates with other devices by using a communication unit such as a wired, wireless, Internet, local area network, and a public line such as a telephone line. In addition, as a communication device, a communication device using voice, light, vibration, image, etc. may also be used.

[0054] In the present embodiment, the communication unit 14 communicates with the cloud server 20 (shadow device 22) and the image forming devices 10B and 10C using different networks. Specifically, the communication unit 14 communicates with the image forming devices 10B and 10C through, for example, a closed network 40 (see FIG. 4 ) that can connect to a specific image forming device (an example of an information processing system). Figure 1 ) for communication.

[0055] The network 40 is a network (for example, a local network such as a LAN) in which a border-type security system such as a firewall is built in. The communication between the communication unit 14 and the image forming apparatuses 10B and 10C is, for example, communication that does not require verification of a certificate.

[0056] On the other hand, the communication between the communication unit 14 and the cloud server 20 (shadow device 22) is set to require certificate verification, for example. In this embodiment, due to the presence of a boundary-type security system such as a firewall, push from the cloud server 20 (shadow device 22) to the communication unit 14 cannot be performed. Therefore, simulated push communication accompanied by polling from the communication unit 14 to the cloud server 20 (shadow device 22) is performed. That is, synchronization processing is performed through this simulated push communication.

[0057] In the present embodiment, when the image forming apparatus 10A inquires the cloud server 20 (shading device 22 ) via the communication unit 14 , the communication unit 14 is configured to be able to receive communication from the cloud server 20 (shading device 22 ) as a response to the inquiry.

[0058] In the image forming apparatus 10A, for example, the image reading unit 12 reads the image of the document and generates image data, thereby executing a scan process based on the scan function. In addition, in the image forming apparatus 10A, for example, the image reading unit 12 transmits the image data generated by reading the image of the document to another device such as another multifunction peripheral, thereby executing a fax process based on the fax function.

[0059] In the image forming apparatus 10A, for example, the image forming unit 13 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper based on image data generated by reading an image of a document by the image reading unit 12, thereby executing a copy process based on the copy function. In the image forming apparatus 10A, for example, the image forming unit 13 forms an image on a recording medium such as paper based on image data acquired from a terminal such as a personal computer and a smartphone, and a storage medium such as a USB memory, thereby executing a print process based on the print function.

[0060] The input unit 15 is a component for inputting instructions from a user. Specifically, the input unit 15 is composed of, for example, input keys (for example, a keyboard and operation buttons) and a touch panel operated by the user.

[0061] The instructions from the user include instructions to cause the image forming apparatus 10A to execute a job related to processes such as copying, printing, scanning, and faxing. A job is a processing unit of an action executed in response to a single instruction from the user.

[0062] The display unit 16 displays prompt information to the user. As an example, the display unit 16 is composed of a liquid crystal display and an organic EL (Electro Luminescence) display. In addition, the display unit 16 can also function as the input unit 15. In this case, as an example, the input unit is composed of a touch panel such as a resistive film method and an electrostatic capacitance method, and the user's instructions are input through the user's contact operation.

[0063] The control device 11 is a device that controls each part of the image forming device 10A. The control device 11 has a function as a computer, such as Figure 3 As shown, the computer system has a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 11A, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 11B, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 11C, and a memory 11D. The CPU 11A, the ROM 11B, the RAM 11C, and the memory 11D are connected to each other via a control bus 18.

[0064] The CPU 11A is a central processing unit, and executes various programs including information processing programs such as information synchronization programs, or controls various parts. The CPU 11A corresponds to a processor. The ROM 11B stores various programs including information processing programs and various data. The RAM 11C temporarily stores programs or data as a work area.

[0065] The memory 11D is composed of a storage medium such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or a flash memory, and stores various programs including an operating system and various data. Here, the various data include data 100A such as various settings and states of the image forming device 10A, and a communication frequency table described later. In addition, the information processing program can also be stored in the memory 11D. In this embodiment, the memory 11D corresponds to the memory.

[0066] In the control device 11, the CPU 11A reads various programs including the information processing program from the ROM 11B or the memory 11D, and executes the programs using the RAM 11C as a work area. The CPU 11A executes the information processing program to realize various functions of controlling each part of the image forming device 10A. Next, the functional structure realized by the cooperation of the CPU 11A as a hardware resource and the information processing program as a software resource will be described. Figure 4 It is a block diagram showing an example of the functional configuration of the control device 11 according to the present embodiment.

[0067] In the control device 11, the CPU 11A executes the information processing program, such as Figure 4 As shown, it functions as a data communication unit 61, a data change detection unit 62, a table storage unit 63, a transmission determination unit 64, and a timing unit 65. The timing unit 65 measures time.

[0068] The data communication unit 61 communicates with the shadow device 22 based on a transmission request described later, and performs synchronization processing to synchronize information between the image forming apparatus 10A and the shadow device 22. In the present embodiment, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to perform the synchronization processing based on the transmission request described later, and when the transmission determination unit 64 determines to perform the synchronization processing, the data communication unit 61 performs the synchronization processing. Thus, the data communication unit 61 communicates with the shadow device 22 at a timing based on the transmission request, and performs the synchronization processing.

[0069] Here, the "synchronization process" refers to a process of making the data 100A of the image forming device 10A and the data 22A of the shadow device 22 consistent. In the present embodiment, the shadow device 22 also has the data 100A of various settings and states of the image forming device 10A as data 22A. Furthermore, by sending the data 100A of the image forming device 10A to the shadow device 22, the data 22A of the shadow device 22 is updated, so that the difference between the data 100A of the image forming device 10A and the data 22A of the shadow device 22 is eliminated.

[0070] Furthermore, the data communication unit 61 stores the data 100A transmitted to the shading device 22 in the memory 11D as an example.

[0071] The data change detection unit 62 detects changes in data 100A such as various settings and states stored in the image forming device 10A. Specifically, the data change detection unit 62 acquires data 100A at preset intervals and detects changes based on the acquired data 100A. In addition, a preset number of samples of the data 100A acquired by the data change detection unit 62 are stored in the memory 11D. The data change detection unit 62 detects changes in the data 100A based on the acquired data 100A and the data 100A last stored in the memory 11D. In addition, the data change detection unit 62 detects changes in the data 100A based on the acquired data 100A and the data 100A last stored in the memory 11D that has been sent to the shadow device 22.

[0072] The table storage unit 63 stores information indicating a "send request". In the present embodiment, as an example, the "send request" is sent from the shadow device 22. The information indicating the "send request" is information including the type of data 100A sent from the image forming device 10A to the shadow device 22 and the different sending periods (i.e., the communication frequency of the data) for each type of data 100A. Specifically, the table storage unit 63 stores the communication frequency table described later as information indicating the "send request". In addition, as an example, the table storage unit 63 of the present embodiment is provided in the memory 11D.

[0073] The transmission determination unit 64 determines whether synchronization with the shadow device 22 is required, that is, whether data 100A needs to be transmitted to the shadow device 22. Specifically, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether it is the timing to transmit the data 100A based on the change in the data 100A detected by the data change detection unit 62 and the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63.

[0074] Figure 5 is a diagram showing a communication frequency table. Figure 5 As shown in FIG. 1 , the communication frequency table sets a communication frequency type indicating a communication frequency for each type of communication data. Figure 5 In the communication frequency table, "communication frequency overview" is shown, but in fact, the type of communication data and the communication frequency type may be shown. That is, as an example, the communication frequency in each communication frequency type can be stored in the memory 11D in advance in association with each communication frequency type.

[0075] The communication frequency (transmission period) includes a communication frequency determined according to a change in the data 100A and a communication frequency determined by a setting value set in the image forming apparatus 10A. Figure 5 In the communication frequency determined according to the change of data 100A, there are "Type A" set for "Job Status", "Type B" set for "Consumables", "Type C" set for "Temperature in the Device", and "Type F" set for "Number of Consecutive Login Failures". In addition, as a communication frequency determined in the setting value set in the image forming device 10A, there is "Type D" set for "Setting Information". In addition, the communication frequency (transmission period) also includes a communication frequency determined according to the type of data regardless of the change of data 100A, and as such a communication frequency, there are "Type E" set for "Operation Time" and "Type G" set for "Accounting Information".

[0076] In "Type A", a period determined by changes in data 100A acquired in image forming apparatus 10A and the time elapsed after the changes are set as the communication frequency. Specifically, in "Job Status", the communication frequency is set to "one minute from the last transmission even if there are changes".

[0077] In "Type B", a period determined according to the remaining amount of consumables consumed in the image forming apparatus 10A is set as the communication frequency. Specifically, in "Consumables", the communication frequency is set to "if the remaining amount is less than 30%, send every 1% decrease, if the remaining amount is more than 30%, send every other day". That is, when the remaining amount is more than 30% which is a preset setting value, the communication frequency is set lower than when the remaining amount is less than 30% which is a preset setting value.

[0078] In "Type C", the communication frequency is set as the transmission period when the data 100A acquired in the image forming device 10A has a preset change from the data 100A last sent to the shadow device 22. Specifically, in "Temperature in the device", the communication frequency is set to "send if there is a change of one degree or more from the last sent data".

[0079] In "Type D", a period determined by a setting value set in the image forming apparatus 10A is set as the communication frequency. As "setting information", there is, for example, a version of TLS (Transport Layer Security), a protocol for performing secure communication in a computer network such as the Internet. Specifically, in "setting information", the communication frequency is set to "send if changed".

[0080] In "Type E", regardless of the change of data 100A, a period determined according to the type of data 100A is set as the communication frequency. "Operation time" is a value indicating the cumulative time of actually executing scanning processing, fax processing, copy processing, and printing processing when the image forming apparatus 10A is started. Specifically, in "Operation time", "send every other day" is set. That is, synchronization processing is performed every other day.

[0081] In "Type F", the communication frequency is set to the transmission period when the added value of the data 100A acquired in the image forming device 10A becomes equal to or greater than a preset value. Specifically, the communication frequency is set to "send if the number of consecutive failures reaches a certain value" in the number of consecutive failures of the user to log in to the image forming device 10A, i.e., "Number of consecutive login failures".

[0082] In "Type G", regardless of the change of data 100A, the period determined according to the type of data 100A is set as the communication frequency. "Accounting information" is information related to charges, such as the number of scanned sheets, the number of faxed sheets, the number of copied sheets, and the number of printed sheets. Specifically, in "Accounting information", it is set to "send at the end of each month".

[0083] <Shadow Device>

[0084] Next, the shading device 22 in the synchronization processing system of the present embodiment will be described in detail. Figure 6 2 is a block diagram showing the functional structure of the shading device 22 in this embodiment.

[0085] The shadow device 22 is an example of a synchronization destination of the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C. The shadow device 22 is a device virtually constructed on the cloud server 20. As described above, the shadow device 22 can communicate with the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C by pseudo-push communication.

[0086] like Figure 6 As shown, the darkening device 22 includes a data communication unit 24 and a data storage unit 26 as functional units.

[0087] The data communication unit 24 functions as a transmission unit that transmits a communication frequency table as information indicating a "transmission request" to the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C. In addition, the data communication unit 24 also functions as a reception unit that receives the data 100A to 100C transmitted from the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C. Specifically, the data communication unit 24 communicates with the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C by using a communication device such as a wired, wireless, Internet, local area network, or public line such as a telephone line. In addition, the communication device may be a communication device that uses voice, light, vibration, image, or the like.

[0088] The data storage unit 26 stores the communication frequency table as information indicating the "transmission request" and the data 100A to 100C transmitted from the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C as data 22A for the image forming apparatus 10A, data 22B for the image forming apparatus 10B, and data 22C for the image forming apparatus 10C (see Figure 2 ). In addition, as an example, the data storage unit 26 can be provided in a memory (not shown) constituting a control device (not shown) in the cloud server 20. The memory is similar to the memory 11D of the image forming device 10A, and is composed of a storage medium such as a HDD (Hard Disk Drive), an SSD (Solid State Drive) or a flash memory.

[0089] <Processing flow in image forming apparatus>

[0090] Next, the flow of the process executed in the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C according to the present embodiment will be described. In addition, as an example, only the flow of the synchronization process executed in the image forming apparatus 10A will be described below, but the same process is also performed in the image forming apparatuses 10B and 10C. Figure 7 This is a flowchart showing an example of the process at the time of startup in the image forming apparatus 10 according to the present embodiment.

[0091] like Figure 7 As shown, in the image forming apparatus 10A, when the power is turned on and the operation starts, first, in step S11, the control device 11 of the image forming apparatus 10A inquires the shadow device 22 via the communication unit 14. Specifically, the control device 11 requests the shadow device 22 to send a "send request". Here, as an example, the "send request" is a communication frequency table.

[0092] In response to the inquiry from the image forming apparatus 10A in step S11, the shadow device 22 transmits a "transmission request" to the image forming apparatus 10A via the data communication unit 24. That is, the shadow device 22 transmits the communication frequency table (see Figure 5 ) contains information on the type of data 100A and the different transmission periods (i.e., communication frequencies) for each type of data 100A.

[0093] In step S12, the control device 11 of the image forming apparatus 10A receives the “transmission request” transmitted from the shading device 22 via the communication unit 14. Specifically, the control device 11 receives the communication frequency table as the “transmission request”.

[0094] Next, in step S13, the control device 11 stores the "transmission request" received in step S12 in the table storage unit 63, and ends the process. Here, if the communication frequency table as the "transmission request" is already stored in the table storage unit 63, the control device 11 updates the stored communication frequency table.

[0095] Next, the flow of the synchronization process executed in the image forming apparatus 10A according to the present embodiment will be described. Figure 8 1 is a flowchart showing an example of synchronization processing in the image forming apparatus 10A according to the present embodiment. Figure 8 The synchronous processing shown in Figure 7 The process starts after the image forming apparatus 10A is started and is repeated until the image forming apparatus 10A is powered off. Figure 8The synchronization process shown is performed for each type of data 100A to be transmitted. In the present embodiment, CPU 11A of image forming apparatus 10A reads an information processing program from ROM 11B or memory 11D and executes the information processing program, thereby performing the synchronization process.

[0096] In the case of the image forming apparatus 10A, when Figure 7 When the process shown when the image forming apparatus 10A is activated ends, in step S21 , the data change detecting unit 62 acquires the data 100A and detects a change in the acquired data 100A as described above.

[0097] Next, in step S22, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to transmit the data 100A. Specifically, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether it is the transmission timing of the data 100A based on the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63. In step 23, when the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing to transmit the data 100A to the shadow device 22 (step S23; yes), the data communication unit 61 transmits the acquired data 100A to the shadow device 22, and the processing ends.

[0098] Furthermore, the data communication unit 24 of the shading device 22 stores the data 100A transmitted from the data communication unit 61 of the image forming apparatus 10A as data 22A in the data storage unit 26. That is, the data 22A stored in the data storage unit 26 is updated.

[0099] On the other hand, in step S23, when the sending judgment unit 64 judges that it is not the timing to send the acquired data 100A to the shadow device 22 (step S23; No), CPU11A causes the processing to enter step S22, and repeats the processing after step S22 until it is the timing to send the acquired data 100A to the shadow device 22.

[0100] Here, for example, when the data 100A is "job status", the communication frequency is set to "Type A". As described above, the "job status" is data indicating how many jobs are accepted and how many jobs are currently being executed according to the user's instructions input by the input unit 15. For example, when the image forming apparatus 10A is performing a print process, for example, the "job status" is data indicating that ten sheets of printing are accepted and three of them are being printed, specifically, data indicating "3 / 10".

[0101] That is, in Figure 8In step S21, when the data change detection unit 62 detects a data change from "3 / 10" to "4 / 10", the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to transmit the data 100A in step S22. Whether to transmit the data 100A is determined based on the communication frequency of "Type A" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "one minute from the last transmission even if there is a change".

[0102] Specifically, the data communication unit 61 transmits after one minute has passed since the last (most recent) synchronization process (transmission). In other words, even if the data change detection unit 62 detects a data change from "3 / 10" to "4 / 10", it does not transmit until one minute has passed since the last synchronization process performed by the data communication unit 61.

[0103] Therefore, in Figure 8 In step S23, when the measured time from the last synchronization process measured by the timing unit 65 is less than one minute, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S23; No), and repeats the processing after step S22 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. On the other hand, in step S23, when the measured time from the last synchronization process measured by the timing unit 65 becomes more than one minute, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing for data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends data 100A indicating "4 / 10" to the shadow device 22.

[0104] In addition, for example, when data 100A is "consumables", the communication frequency is set to "Type B". As an example, "consumables" include paper (not shown) stored in the image forming device 10A, toner (not shown) of the image forming unit 13, and a scanning drum (not shown) of the image reading unit 12. When the "consumables" are paper, data based on the number of sheets currently stored as the remaining amount becomes the communication data. For example, when the image forming device 10A can store 100 sheets of paper, if the remaining amount is 30 sheets, as an example, data indicating "30%" becomes the communication data.

[0105] When the “consumable material” is toner, the remaining amount of toner becomes communication data. The remaining amount of toner can be detected using a known method, for example, it can be derived from the number of prints up to the current time or from the weight of the toner.

[0106] When the "consumable material" is a scanning drum, as an example, the communication data includes data on the remaining amount derived based on the film thickness of a protective layer (not shown) on the surface of the scanning drum. The film thickness can be measured by a known method.

[0107] That is, in Figure 8 In step S21, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the remaining amount of "consumables" has changed, in step S22, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to transmit the data 100A. Whether to transmit the data 100A is based on the communication frequency of "Type B" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "if the remaining amount is less than 30%, it is transmitted every 1% decrease, and if the remaining amount is more than 30%, it is transmitted every other day."

[0108] Specifically, when the remaining amount is less than 30%, the data communication unit 61 performs synchronization processing (transmission) every time the remaining amount decreases by 1%. When the remaining amount is 30% or more, the data change detection unit 62 performs synchronization processing (transmission) every other day, that is, every 48 hours.

[0109] Therefore, in Figure 8 In step S23, when the remaining amount is less than 30%, when the remaining amount decreases by less than 1%, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S23; No), and repeats the processing after step S22 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. On the other hand, when the remaining amount is less than 30%, for example, when the remaining amount decreases by 1%, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing for data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends the data 100A representing the remaining amount that was recently acquired by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0110] On the other hand, in step S23, when the remaining amount is 30% or more, if the measured time from the time of the process of step S21 measured by the timing unit 65 is less than 48 hours, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is not the timing of data transmission (step S23; No), and repeats the process after step S22 until it becomes the timing of data transmission. In addition, when the remaining amount is 30% or more, if the measured time from the time of the last synchronization process measured by the timing unit 65 has passed 48 hours, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing of data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 transmits the data 100A indicating the remaining amount recently acquired by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0111] For example, when the data 100A is "temperature inside the device", the communication frequency is set to "Type C". As an example, the "temperature inside the device" is a temperature detected by a temperature sensor (not shown) provided in the image forming apparatus 10A.

[0112] That is, in Figure 8In step S21, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the "temperature inside the device" has changed, in step S22, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to transmit data. The determination of whether to transmit data is based on the communication frequency of "type C" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "send if there is a change of one degree or more from the last transmitted data".

[0113] Specifically, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the temperature indicated by the value output from the temperature sensor has changed by one degree or more since the data 100A last transmitted to the shading device 22 , the data communication unit 61 performs synchronization processing (transmission).

[0114] Therefore, in Figure 8 In step S23, when the change between the temperature inside the device detected by the data change detection unit 62 in step S21 and the temperature represented by the last sent data 100A stored in the memory 11D is less than one degree, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S23; No), and repeats the processing after step S22 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. On the other hand, when the change between the temperature inside the device detected by the data change detection unit 62 in step S21 and the temperature represented by the last sent data 100A stored in the memory 11D is more than one degree, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing for data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends the data 100A representing the temperature inside the device most recently acquired by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0115] In addition, for example, when data 100A is "setting information", the communication frequency is set to "Type D". In addition, here, as an example, "setting information" is set to information indicating the version of TLS. Figure 8 In step S21, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the "setting information" has changed, in step S22, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to send data. Whether to send data is based on the communication frequency of "type D" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "send if changed".

[0116] That is, in step S23, since the data change detection unit 62 detects that the TLS version has changed in step S21, the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is the timing for data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 transmits the data 100A indicating the TLS version most recently acquired by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0117] For example, when data 100A is "number of consecutive login failures", the communication frequency is set to "Type F". As an example, "number of consecutive login failures" is an added value counted by a counter (not shown) provided in control device 11 of image forming apparatus 10A.

[0118] That is, in Figure 8 In step S21, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the "number of consecutive login failures" has changed, in step S22, the transmission determination unit 64 determines whether to send data. Whether to send data is based on the communication frequency of "type F" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "send if the number of consecutive failures reaches a certain number or more". In addition, in this embodiment, as an example, "certain" is set to three times.

[0119] Specifically, when the data change detection unit 62 detects that the added value output from the counter is three or more times, the data communication unit 61 performs synchronization processing (transmission).

[0120] Therefore, in Figure 8 In step S23, when the added value output from the counter detected by the data change detection unit 62 in step S21 is less than three times, the sending or not judging unit 64 judges that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S23; No), and repeats the processing after step S22 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. On the other hand, when the added value output from the counter detected by the data change detection unit 62 in step S21 is more than three times, the sending or not judging unit 64 judges that it is the timing for data transmission (step S23; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends the data 100A indicating the number of consecutive login failures recently obtained by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0121] Next, another example of the flow of the synchronization process executed in the image forming apparatus 10A according to the present embodiment will be described. Fig. 9 FIG. 1 is a flowchart showing another example of synchronization processing in the image forming apparatus 10A of the present embodiment. Fig. 9 The synchronization process shown is the same as the above-mentioned synchronization process. Figure 7 The process starts after the image forming apparatus 10A is started and is repeated until the image forming apparatus 10A is powered off. Fig. 9 The synchronization process shown is performed for each type of data to be transmitted. In the present embodiment, CPU 11A of image forming apparatus 10A reads an information processing program from ROM 11B or memory 11D and executes the information processing program, thereby performing the synchronization process.

[0122] In the case of the image forming apparatus 10A, when Figure 7 When the processing when the image forming device 10A shown in the figure is started ends, in step S31, the sending judgment unit 64 judges whether to send data 100A. Specifically, the sending judgment unit 64 judges whether it is the sending timing of data 100A based on the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63. In step 32, when the sending judgment unit 64 judges that it is the timing to send data 100A to the shadow device 22 (step S32; yes), the data communication unit 61 sends data 100A to the shadow device 22 and ends the processing. That is, in Fig. 9 In the synchronization process, regardless of the change of the data 100A, the synchronization process is performed at a communication frequency corresponding to the type of the data 100A.

[0123] Here, for example, when data 100A is "operating time", the communication frequency is set to "Type E". As described above, "operating time" is a value indicating the cumulative time of actually executing scanning, faxing, copying, and printing processes when the image forming apparatus 10A is activated.

[0124] That is, in Fig. 9 In step S31, the transmission judgment unit 64 judges whether to send data 100A based on the communication frequency of "Type E" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "sending every other day". In step S32, when the measurement time from the last synchronization processing measured by the timing unit 65 is less than 48 hours, the transmission judgment unit 64 judges that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S32; No), and repeats the processing after step S31 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. In addition, when the measurement time from the last synchronization processing measured by the timing unit 65 has passed 48 hours, the transmission judgment unit 64 judges that it is the timing for data transmission (step S32; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends data 100A representing the operating time to the shadow device 22.

[0125] In the present embodiment, as an example, the “operating time” is measured by the timer unit 65 , and when the synchronization process is performed, the data 100A transmitted to the shading device 22 is stored in the memory 11D, and the measurement by the timer unit 65 is reset.

[0126] When data 100A is "billing information", for example, the communication frequency is set to "Type G". As described above, "billing information" is information related to charging, such as the number of scans, faxes, copies, and prints.

[0127] That is, in Fig. 9In step S31, the sending or not judging unit 64 judges whether to send data 100A based on the communication frequency of "Type G" shown in the communication frequency table stored in the table storage unit 63, that is, "sending at the end of each month". In step S32, when the date and time set by the control device 11 are not the end of the month, the sending or not judging unit 64 judges that it is not the timing for data transmission (step S32; No), and repeats the processing after step S31 until it becomes the timing for data transmission. In addition, when the date and time set by the control device 11 are the end of the month, the sending or not judging unit 64 judges that it is the timing for data transmission (step S32; Yes). Then, the data communication unit 61 sends the data 100A representing the accounting information obtained by the data change detection unit 62 to the shadow device 22.

[0128] In this embodiment, as an example, "accounting information" such as the number of scans, faxes, copies, and prints is measured by the timer 65. When the synchronization process is performed, the data 100A sent to the shadowing device 22 is stored in the memory 11D, and the measurement by the timer 65 is reset.

[0129] <Functions of this embodiment>

[0130] In the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, the data communication unit 61 receives the communication frequency table as a transmission request from the shadow device 22, and transmits the data 100A to 100C recorded in the memory 11D to the shadow device 22 based on the communication frequency table. Since the types of data 100A to 100C to be transmitted and the transmission period that differs for each type of data 100A to 100C are set in the communication frequency table, the data communication unit 61 transmits the data 100A to 100C at a different timing for each type of data 100A to 100C. Therefore, when synchronizing the data 100A to 100C recorded in the memory 11D with the shadow device 22, the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where all the data 100A to 100C are simultaneously transmitted to the shadow device 22 regardless of the types of the data 100A to 100C.

[0131] The image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment transmit the data 100A to 100C to the shadowing device 22 at a transmission timing determined according to changes in the data 100A to 100C. Therefore, the communication volume can be reduced compared to a case where one type of data 100A to 100C is transmitted regularly.

[0132] In addition, in the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, for example, when the data 100A is in the "job status", even if the data 100A has changed, the data 100A is transmitted one minute after the final transmission to the shadow device 22. Thus, even if the data 100A to 100C has changed, the data 100A to 100C is not transmitted immediately, so that the communication frequency of the data 100A to 100C is suppressed, thereby suppressing the communication volume.

[0133] In addition, in the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, for example, when the data 100A is "temperature inside the device", the data 100A is transmitted when there is a change of one degree or more from the data 100A that was last transmitted to the shading device 22. In this way, the data 100A to 100C is transmitted only when there is a predetermined change from the data 100A to 100C that was last transmitted, so that the communication frequency of the data 100A to 100C is suppressed, thereby suppressing the communication volume.

[0134] In the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, for example, if the data 100A is "consumables", the data 100A to 100C are transmitted to the shading device 22 at a timing determined according to the remaining amount of the consumables. Therefore, compared with the case where the data 100A to 100C are transmitted periodically, unnecessary transmission can be suppressed, and thus the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0135] In addition, in the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, when the remaining amount is equal to or greater than a preset threshold, for example, the communication frequency is reduced compared to when the remaining amount is lower than the threshold. Therefore, compared to the case where data 100A to 100C is transmitted periodically, unnecessary transmission can be suppressed, thereby suppressing the communication volume.

[0136] In addition, in the image forming apparatuses 10A to 10C of the present embodiment, for example, when the data 100A as "setting information" is data indicating the version of TLS, if the version is changed, the data 100A to 100C are transmitted to the shadowing device 22. Thus, the data 100A to 100C are transmitted only when the setting value is changed, so that the communication volume can be suppressed compared with the case where the data 100A to 100C is transmitted regularly.

[0137] <Modification>

[0138] In addition, in the above embodiment, when the data 100A is "consumables", when the remaining amount is above a preset threshold, the communication frequency is reduced compared to when the remaining amount is below the threshold, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Even when the remaining amount is above a preset threshold, when the rate of reduction of the remaining amount exceeds the preset threshold, the communication frequency can be increased. Here, the "rate of reduction of the remaining amount" means the amount of reduction (e.g., 10%) of the remaining amount per unit time (e.g., 60 minutes).

[0139] Specifically, as an example, the communication frequency can be set to "if the remaining amount is less than 30%, send every time it decreases by 2%, and if the remaining amount is more than 30%, send every other day. However, even if the remaining amount is more than 30%, when the remaining amount reduction rate exceeds 50%, send every time it decreases by 1%, or send every minute". Thus, even if the remaining amount of consumables is more than the threshold, when the remaining amount reduction rate is more than the preset threshold, the communication frequency becomes higher than the case where it is lower than the threshold, so that the omission of the transmission of the required data 100A can be suppressed.

[0140] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, when the data 100A is the "temperature inside the device", the data 100A is sent when there is one or more changes from the data 100A finally sent to the shadow device 22, but the technology of the present invention is not limited to this. Even when there is a change in the temperature inside the device, only the data 100A that deviates from the average value by more than a certain value may be sent. Specifically, the data 100A is sent when the latest data 100A obtained in the image forming device 10A deviates from the range determined by the data average value and standard deviation of the preset number of samples obtained in the image forming device 10A.

[0141] Next, a method of transmitting the acquired data 100A to the shading device 22 when the acquired data 100A is a value outside the range indicated by the average value ± standard deviation × 2 is described. In this case, although illustration is omitted, as an example, "Type H" is set in the communication frequency table, and "Type H" is set to "transmit a value outside the range indicated by the average value ± standard deviation × 2".

[0142] First, the data change detection unit 62 detects the temperature in the device at intervals of 1 second, and stores the data 100A indicating the detected temperature in the device in the memory 11D. Here, 400 data 100A are always stored in the memory 11D as sample data. Furthermore, when the data change detection unit 62 reacquires the data 100A indicating the temperature in the device, the old data 100A is deleted, and the 400 latest data 100A are always stored in the memory 11D.

[0143] In addition, the data change detection unit 62 calculates the data average value and standard deviation of the 400 data 100A each time the data 100A in the memory 11D is updated, and stores them in the memory 11D. In addition, the initial values ​​of the average value and the standard deviation may be general values, and may be set by the management terminal 50 via the shadow device 22, for example. In addition, the data change detection unit 62 also calculates the range represented by the average value ± standard deviation × 2, and stores it in the memory 11D.

[0144] When the data change detection unit 62 detects that the value of the acquired data 100A has changed from the data 100A finally sent to the shadow device 22, and the acquired data 100A is outside the range shown by the average value ± standard deviation × 2 stored in the memory 11D, the sending judgment unit 64 judges that it needs to be sent.

[0145] When the transmission determination unit 64 determines that transmission is necessary, the data communication unit 61 transmits the acquired data 100A to the shading device 22 .

[0146] In this way, even if the data 100A changes, only the data 100A that deviates from the average value by more than a certain value is sent to the shadow device 22, so the communication frequency of the data 100A is suppressed, thereby suppressing the communication volume. In addition, when a value that deviates from the range shown by the average value ± standard deviation × 2 is sent, the above range can be automatically expanded when the communication frequency increases, compared with the case where the data 100A is sent when there is a change of more than a preset value from the data 100A finally sent to the shadow device 22. In this way, the communication volume can be suppressed.

[0147] In addition, for example, when the type of data is additive data such as the "number of jobs" received by the image forming apparatus 10A, an approximate straight line may be used. In this case, the data change detection unit 62 generates an approximate straight line based on the data 100A stored in the memory 11D and stores it in the memory 11D.

[0148] When the data change detection unit 62 detects that the value of the acquired data 100A has changed from the data 100A finally sent to the shadow device 22, and when the acquired data 100A is outside the preset range according to the approximate curve stored in the memory 11D, the sending determination unit 64 determines that it needs to be sent.

[0149] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, a sending period is set for each type of data 100A, but the present invention is not limited to this. For example, the sending period may also include a period determined according to the type of multiple data 100A summarized by the same classification. For example, when the image forming device 10A has colorants of multiple colors (for example, CMYK; cyan, magenta, yellow, black), it is sometimes desirable to send the data 100A indicating the remaining amount for each color at the same timing rather than sending it at different timings. In this case, for example, when the reduction rate of the remaining amount of the black colorant is large, it is possible to send the data 100A indicating the remaining amount of the cyan, magenta and yellow colorants together with the data 100A indicating the remaining amount of the black colorant to the shadow device 22 at the same time as the data 100A indicating the remaining amount of the black colorant is sent to the shadow device 22.

[0150] In this way, by simultaneously transmitting the types of the plurality of data 100A grouped under the same classification, the plurality of data 100A under the same classification can be provided together.

[0151] In addition, when there are multiple types of data 100A to 100C to be transmitted within a preset time, the transmission period may include a period determined based on the multiple types of data 100A to 100C. For example, when the transmission determination unit 64 determines that there are multiple types of data 100A to 100C to be transmitted at substantially the same time, in other words, at slightly different timings, the data may be transmitted to the shadow device 22 in a batch rather than in a dispersed manner.

[0152] Fig.10 1 is a flowchart showing the synchronization process 1 in the image forming apparatus 10A in this case. Fig.11 This is a flowchart showing the synchronization process 2. Fig.10 The processing of steps S41 to S43 is Figure 8 The processing of steps S21 to S23 is the same, so the detailed description is omitted here.

[0153] In step S43, when the transmission determination unit 64 determines that it is time to transmit the acquired data 100A to the shadow device 22, the transmission determination unit 64 stores the acquired data 100A in a communication data list (not shown) stored in the memory 11D. Here, the communication data list lists the data 100A that the transmission determination unit 64 determines to transmit to the shadow device 22.

[0154] Next, at regular intervals Fig.11 As an example, if the data 100A to 100C are collectively transmitted at 5-minute intervals, the synchronization is performed at 17:00, 17:05, 17:10, etc. Fig.11 Synchronous processing shown.

[0155] In step S51, the data communication unit 61 checks the communication data list stored in the memory 11D. If there is no data 100A in the communication data list (step S52; No), the process waits until the next processing start time (after 5 minutes).

[0156] On the other hand, in step S52 , when the data 100A exists in the communication data list (step S52 ; Yes), in step S53 , the data communication unit 61 transmits the data 100A listed in the communication data list to the shadow device 22 .

[0157] Next, in step S54, the data communication unit 61 clears the communication data list stored in the memory 11D. That is, the data 100A that has been transmitted to the shading device 22 is deleted from the communication data list.

[0158] In this way, by simultaneously transmitting a plurality of types of data 100A to be transmitted within a preset time period, the amount of data communication can be suppressed.

[0159] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiment, a multifunction machine (specifically, image forming devices 10A to 10C) is used as an example of an information processing system, but it is not limited to this. As an example of an information processing system, for example, a printer that only performs printing processing may be used, and an image forming device other than a multifunction machine may also be used. In addition, as an example of an information processing system, it is not limited to an image forming device, and it may be a terminal such as a personal computer and a smart phone, as long as it is a device capable of communication.

[0160] In addition, in the above-mentioned embodiments, the processor refers to a processor in a broad sense, including a general-purpose processor (for example, the above-mentioned CPU, etc.) or a special-purpose processor (for example, GPU: Graphics Processing Unit (graphics processor), ASIC: Application Specific Integrated Circuit (application-specific integrated circuit), FPGA: Field Programmable Gate Array (field programmable gate array), programmable logic device, etc.).

[0161] In addition, the actions of the processors in the above-mentioned embodiments are not only performed by one processor, but also can be performed by multiple processors in physically separated positions in cooperation. In addition, the order of each action of the processor is not limited to the order described in the above-mentioned embodiments, and can also be appropriately changed.

[0162] In addition, in this embodiment, it is described that the synchronization processing system is composed of multiple devices, but it can also be composed of a single device. In addition, in this embodiment, it is described that the information processing system is composed of a single device, but it can also be composed of multiple devices. That is, the "system" in this embodiment can be composed of multiple devices or a single device.

[0163] Furthermore, it goes without saying that the program for realizing the embodiment of the present invention is provided via a communication unit, and it may be provided by being stored in a recording medium such as a CD-ROM.

[0164] The present invention is not limited to the above-described embodiments, and various modifications, changes, and improvements can be made without departing from the gist of the invention. For example, the above-described modified examples can be appropriately combined in multiple forms.

[0165] <Note> (1)

[0167] An information processing system comprising:

[0168] at least one memory; and

[0169] at least one processor,

[0170] With respect to the processor,

[0171] receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission time different for each type of data from an external device,

[0172] Data is transmitted to the external device based on the transmission request. (2)

[0174] The information processing system according to (1), wherein:

[0175] With respect to the processor,

[0176] Data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to a change in data as the transmission period. (3)

[0178] The information processing system according to (2), wherein:

[0179] With respect to the processor,

[0180] Data is transmitted based on the transmission request in which the transmission period includes a period determined according to a change in data acquired in the information processing system and an elapsed time after the change occurs. (4)

[0182] The information processing system according to (2), wherein:

[0183] With respect to the processor,

[0184] When there is a predetermined change in the data acquired in the information processing system from the data last transmitted to the external device as a change in the data, the data is transmitted based on the transmission request. (5)

[0186] The information processing system according to (4), wherein:

[0187] With respect to the processor,

[0188] When, as the preset change, the latest data acquired in the information processing system deviates from a range defined by an average value and a standard deviation of data of a preset number of samples acquired in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request. (6)

[0190] The information processing system according to (2), wherein:

[0191] With respect to the processor,

[0192] Regarding the type of data which is the remaining amount of consumables consumed in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request including, as the transmission period, a period determined according to the remaining amount. (7)

[0194] The information processing system according to (6), wherein:

[0195] With respect to the processor,

[0196] When the remaining amount is larger than a preset threshold, the communication frequency is reduced compared to a case where the remaining amount is smaller than the threshold. (8)

[0198] The information processing system according to (7), wherein:

[0199] With respect to the processor,

[0200] Even when the remaining amount is larger than a preset threshold value, if the rate of decrease of the remaining amount exceeds a preset threshold value, the communication frequency is increased. (9)

[0202] The information processing system according to (1), wherein:

[0203] With respect to the processor,

[0204] Regarding the type of data which is a setting value set in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to the setting value as the transmission period. (10)

[0206] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (9), wherein:

[0207] With respect to the processor,

[0208] The data is transmitted based on the transmission request including, as the transmission time, a time determined according to the types of the plurality of data grouped in the same classification. (11)

[0210] The information processing system according to any one of (1) to (10), wherein:

[0211] With respect to the processor,

[0212] When there are a plurality of types of data to be transmitted within a preset time, the data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to the plurality of types of data as the transmission period. (12)

[0214] An information processing program for causing a computer to execute a process, wherein, with respect to the process,

[0215] receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission time different for each type of data from an external device,

[0216] Data is transmitted to the external device based on the transmission request.

[0217] According to the configuration of (1), when data recorded in the memory is synchronized with an external device, the communication volume can be reduced compared to a case where all data is simultaneously transmitted to the external device regardless of the type of data.

[0218] According to the configuration of (2), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where data is transmitted periodically in one type of data.

[0219] According to the configuration of (3), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where data is transmitted immediately after a data change.

[0220] According to the configuration of (4), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where data is transmitted when there is a predetermined change from data before the last transmitted data.

[0221] According to the configuration of (5), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where the change in data of only one sample is used as the preset change.

[0222] According to the configuration of (6), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to a case where data is transmitted periodically regardless of the remaining amount of consumables.

[0223] According to the configuration of (7), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to a case where the communication frequency is high.

[0224] According to the configuration of (8), compared with the case where the communication frequency is kept low when the remaining amount of consumables is equal to or greater than the threshold, it is possible to suppress omission of transmission of necessary data.

[0225] According to the configuration of (9), the communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where data is transmitted periodically regardless of the set value.

[0226] According to the configuration of (10), a plurality of types of data grouped under the same classification can be provided together.

[0227] According to the configuration of (11), the data communication volume can be suppressed compared to the case where a plurality of types of data are transmitted separately within a preset time.

[0228] According to the configuration of (12), when data recorded in the memory is synchronized with an external device, the communication volume can be reduced compared to a case where all data is simultaneously transmitted to the external device regardless of the type of data.

Claims

1. An information processing system, characterized in that: have: at least one memory; and at least one processor, With respect to the processor, receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission time different for each type of data from an external device, Data is transmitted to the external device based on the transmission request.

2. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein: With respect to the processor, Data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to a change in data as the transmission period.

3. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein: With respect to the processor, Data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to a change in data acquired in the information processing system and an elapsed time after the change occurs as the transmission period.

4. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein: With respect to the processor, When there is a predetermined change in the data acquired in the information processing system from the data last transmitted to the external device as a change in the data, the data is transmitted based on the transmission request.

5. The information processing system according to claim 4, wherein: With respect to the processor, When, as the preset change, the latest data acquired in the information processing system deviates from a range defined by an average value and a standard deviation of data of a preset number of samples acquired in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request.

6. The information processing system according to claim 2, wherein: With respect to the processor, Regarding the type of data which is the remaining amount of consumables consumed in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request including, as the transmission period, a period determined according to the remaining amount.

7. The information processing system according to claim 6, wherein: With respect to the processor, When the remaining amount is larger than a preset threshold, the communication frequency is reduced compared to a case where the remaining amount is smaller than the threshold.

8. The information processing system according to claim 7, wherein: With respect to the processor, Even when the remaining amount is larger than a preset threshold value, if the rate of decrease of the remaining amount exceeds a preset threshold value, the communication frequency is increased.

9. The information processing system according to claim 1, wherein: With respect to the processor, Regarding the type of data which is a setting value set in the information processing system, data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to the setting value as the transmission period.

10. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 9, wherein: With respect to the processor, The data is transmitted based on the transmission request including, as the transmission time, a time determined according to the types of the plurality of data grouped in the same classification.

11. The information processing system according to any one of claims 1 to 10, wherein: With respect to the processor, When there are a plurality of types of data to be transmitted within a preset time, the data is transmitted based on the transmission request including a period determined according to the plurality of types of data as the transmission period.

12. A computer-readable medium storing a program for causing a computer to execute a process, characterized in that: In terms of the processing described, receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission time different for each type of data from an external device, Data is transmitted to the external device based on the transmission request.

13. An information processing method, characterized in that: receiving a transmission request including a type of data to be transmitted and a transmission time different for each type of data from an external device, Data is transmitted to the external device based on the transmission request.

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