Communication system, second function execution device, and computer program for terminal device

Abstract

To provide a new technique for storing setting information in a second function execution device .SOLUTION: A second function execution device causes first device identification information stored in a consumable cartridge to be stored in the second function execution device when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function execution device after the consumable cartridge, in which the first device identification information for identifying a first function execution device, is removed from the first function execution device. The second function execution device transmits a response signal, including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function execution device, to a terminal device when a retrieval signal is received from the terminal device in a state where the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function execution device. The second function execution device causes first setting information to be stored in the second function execution device when the first setting information is received from a server.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 4

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] This specification discloses a technique for storing configuration information in a second function performing device. [Background technology]

[0002] Patent Document 1 discloses a scan system including an information processing terminal, a server, and an MFP. When the information processing terminal receives an operation for setting setting information of the MFP, it transmits the setting information to the server. When the server receives the setting information from the information processing terminal, it transmits the setting information to the MFP. When the MFP receives the setting information from the server, it stores the setting information in the MFP. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] Patent Publication No. 2022-10841 Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] Provided herein are novel techniques for storing configuration information in a second function-performing device. [Means for solving the problem]

[0005] This specification discloses a communication system including a first function executing device, a second function executing device, a terminal device, and a server. The first function executing device stores setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function executing device, the server stores first device identification information for identifying the first function executing device and the setting information in association with each other, the first function executing device stores the first device identification information in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the first function executing device, the second function executing device stores the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function executing device after the consumable cartridge is removed from the first function executing device, and when a search signal is received from the terminal device while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function executing device, the server stores the first device identification information and the second device identification information for identifying the second function executing device. and a response signal including the first device identification information and the second device identification information included in the response signal to the terminal device, the terminal device, while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, transmits the search signal, and when the search signal is transmitted, receives the response signal from the second function performing device, and when the response signal is received from the second function performing device, transmits a transmission instruction to the server including the first device identification information and the second device identification information included in the response signal, and when the transmission instruction is received from the terminal device, the server transmits the setting information stored in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction, and when the setting information is received from the server, the second function performing device stores the setting information.

[0006] This specification also discloses a second function performing device, the second function performing device comprising: a first storage control unit for causing a consumable cartridge, in which first device identification information for identifying a first function performing device is stored, to store the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge in the second function performing device when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device after the consumable cartridge is removed from the first function performing device; and a response signal transmitting unit for transmitting a response signal including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device to the terminal device when a search signal is received from a terminal device in a state in which the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, the terminal device receiving the response signal from the second function performing device. and a second storage control unit configured to store the first setting information in the second function executing device when the first setting information is received from the server, the first setting information being stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal, the first setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function executing device when the response signal is received from the terminal device.

[0007] This specification also discloses a computer program for a terminal device, the computer program including the following components: a search signal transmitting unit for transmitting a search signal, a response signal receiving unit for receiving a response signal from a second function performing device when the search signal is transmitted, the response signal including first device identification information for identifying the first function performing device and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device, and a response signal transmitting unit for issuing a transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal when the response signal is received from the second function performing device. The server may function as a transmission instruction sending unit that sends setting information stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction, the setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function executing device, to the second function executing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, and the second function executing device may function as a transmission instruction sending unit that sends the setting information to the second function executing device when the server receives the first setting information from the server.

[0008] According to the above configuration, when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device after the consumable cartridge is removed from the first function performing device, the second function performing device transmits a response signal including the first device identification information and the second device identification information to the terminal device. Then, the second function performing device receives the setting information from the server. Therefore, the second function performing device can store the setting information received from the server.

[0009] A computer program for implementing the second function execution device and a computer-readable recording medium storing the computer program are also novel and useful. Also, a method executed by the second function execution device is novel and useful. A computer-readable recording medium storing a computer program for the terminal device, a terminal device implemented by the computer program for the terminal device, and a method executed by the terminal device are also novel and useful. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0010] [Figure 1] 1 shows the configuration of a communication system. [Diagram 2] 1 shows a sequence diagram of the registration process. [Diagram 3] 1 shows a sequence diagram of a first push scan process. [Figure 4] 1 shows a sequence diagram of a first exchange process. [Diagram 5] 13 shows a sequence diagram of a second push scan process. [Figure 6] 1 shows a sequence diagram of a second exchange process. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0011] (Example) (Configuration of communication system 2; Figure 1) 1, communication system 2 includes two MFPs 10A and 10B, a terminal device 100, and a server 200. MFPs 10A, 10B, and terminal device 100 are connected to a Local Area Network (LAN) 4. MFPs 10A, 10B, and terminal device 100 are capable of communicating with each other via the LAN 4. Server 200 is connected to the Internet 6. MFPs 10A, 10B, terminal device 100, and server 200 are capable of communicating with each other via the Internet 6.

[0012] (Configuration of MFP10A and 10B) The MFP 10A is a peripheral device (i.e., a peripheral device such as a PC) capable of executing a print function and a scan function. The MFP 10A is further configured to be capable of executing a push scan function. The push scan function is a function for transmitting scan image data generated by the MFP 10A to a device different from the MFP 10A (for example, a terminal device 100) via a server 200. The MFP 10A includes an operation unit 12, a display unit 14, a print execution unit 16, a scan execution unit 18, a communication interface 20, and a control unit 30. The MFP 10A has a serial number "SN1". The serial number is an identification number assigned to the MFP when it is manufactured, and is information for identifying the MFP. In the following, the interface is referred to as "I / F".

[0013] The operation unit 12 is an interface for inputting various information to the MFP 10A, and includes buttons, a touch screen, etc. The display unit 14 is a display for displaying various information.

[0014] The print execution unit 16 includes an inkjet printing mechanism. An ink cartridge (e.g., cartridge 16A) that contains ink is attached to the print execution unit 16. The print execution unit 16 executes printing using the ink in the ink cartridge. The scan execution unit 18 includes a reading mechanism such as a CCD type or a CIS type.

[0015] The communication I / F 20 is connected to the LAN 4. The communication I / F 20 may be a wireless I / F or a wired I / F.

[0016] The control unit 30 includes a CPU 32, a volatile memory 34, and a non-volatile memory 36. The volatile memory 34 includes a RAM. The non-volatile memory 36 includes a Hard Disk Drive (HDD) and a ROM. The non-volatile memory 36 may include a Solid State Drive (SSD) or a flash memory. The non-volatile memory 36 stores a program 40. The program 40 stored in the non-volatile memory 36 is loaded into the volatile memory 34 and executed, thereby executing various processes. The non-volatile memory 36 may store destination information and scan setting information. The destination information and scan setting information are information necessary to utilize the push scan function. The destination information is information indicating the destination of the scan image data generated by the MFP 10A.

[0017] The MFP 10B has a similar configuration to the MFP 10A, except that it has the serial number "SN2."

[0018] (Configuration of terminal device 100) The terminal device 100 is a portable terminal device such as a mobile phone (for example, a smartphone), a PDA, a tablet PC, etc. The terminal device 100 includes an operation unit 112, a display unit 114, a communication I / F 120, and a control unit .

[0019] The operation unit 112 is an interface for inputting various information to the terminal device 100, and includes buttons, a touch screen, and the like. The display unit 114 is a display for displaying various information. The communication I / F 120 is connected to the LAN 4. The communication I / F 120 may be a wireless I / F or a wired I / F.

[0020] The control unit 130 includes a CPU 132, a volatile memory 134, and a non-volatile memory 136. The non-volatile memory 136 stores an Operating System (OS) program 140 and an application program 142. The OS program 140 controls the basic operation of the terminal device 100. The application program 142 causes the MFP 10A or the like to execute a print function or a scan function. The programs 140 and 142 stored in the non-volatile memory 136 are loaded into the volatile memory 134 and executed, thereby performing various processes.

[0021] (Configuration of Server 200) Server 200 is a server that mediates communication between MFPs 10A, 10B and terminal device 100. Server 200 is installed on the Internet 6 by the MFP vendor. In a modified example, at least one of servers 200 may be installed on the Internet 6 by a business entity different from the vendor. In another modified example, the MFP vendor may not prepare the hardware for server 200 by itself, but may use an environment provided by an external cloud computing service. In this case, the MFP vendor prepares a program (i.e., software) for server 200 and implements it into the above-mentioned environment to realize 200.

[0022] The server 200 includes a communication I / F 220 and a control unit 230. The communication I / F 220 is connected to the Internet 6. The communication I / F 220 may be a wireless I / F or a wired I / F.

[0023] The control unit 230 includes a CPU 232, a volatile memory 234, and a non-volatile memory 236. The non-volatile memory 236 stores a program 240. The program 240 stored in the non-volatile memory 236 is loaded into the volatile memory 234 and executed, thereby executing various processes. The non-volatile memory 236 further stores a setting table 242. The setting table 242 is a table for managing information related to the push scan function. In the setting table 242, destination information, a serial number, and scan setting information are stored in association with each other. The scan setting information includes size information, color number information, and resolution information. The size information indicates the size of a document to be scanned by the MFP. The color number information indicates the number of colors in the scanned image data. The resolution information indicates the scan resolution of the document.

[0024] (Registration process; Figure 2) With reference to FIG. 2, a registration process for registering information required for using the push scan function in the MFP 10B and the server 200 will be described. In the initial state of FIG. 2, the cartridge 16B is attached to the print execution unit of the MFP 10B. In addition, an XMPP connection is established between the MFP 10B and the server 200. The XMPP connection is a so-called constant connection. If the server 200 uses the XMPP connection, it can transmit a signal to the MFP 10B beyond the firewall of the LAN 4 to which the MFP 10B belongs, even if it does not receive a request from the MFP 10B. Note that the mechanism for transmitting a request from the server 200 to the MFP 10B may be another method other than the XMPP connection. For example, an HTTPS (abbreviation of Hypertext Transfer Protocol Secure) connection may be established between the MFP 10B and the server 200. In the following, processes executed by the CPUs (e.g., 32, 132, 232) of MFPs 10A, 10B, terminal device 100, and server 200 will be described as the subjects of the processes, rather than the CPUs being described as the subjects of the processes. Also, in the following, communication between devices is executed via a communication I / F (e.g., 20, 220, 320). Therefore, in the following description, when describing communication, the phrase "via a communication I / F" will be omitted.

[0025] At T10, the user executes a registration operation on the terminal device 100 to register the destination information in the MFP 10B. As a result, at T12, the terminal device 100 transmits a first registration request including the application ID “AP” for identifying the application program 142 to the MFP 10B.

[0026] When the MFP 10B receives a first registration request from the terminal device 100 in T12, it stores the application ID "AP" included in the first registration request in non-volatile memory as destination information in T14. The MFP 10B transmits a second registration request including the application ID "AP" and serial number "SN2" to the server 200 in T20.

[0027] When server 200 receives a second registration request from MFP 10B in T20, server 200 stores the application ID "AP" and serial number "SN2" included in the second registration request in setting table 242 in T22. Specifically, server 200 stores application ID "AP" as destination information in setting table 242. In T24, server 200 transmits a first completion notification to MFP 10B indicating that registration of the destination information has been completed. When MFP 10B receives the first completion notification from server 200 in T24, MFP 10B transmits the first completion notification to terminal device 100 in T26.

[0028] When the terminal device 100 receives a first completion notification from the MFP 10B in T26, the terminal device 100 transmits a capability information request to the MFP 10B in T30. The capability information request is a signal for requesting transmission of capability information including information on functions that the MFP 10B can execute. The terminal device 100 receives capability information including print information and scan information from the MFP 10B in T32. Although not shown in the figure, the print information includes all print settings available to the MFP 10B (e.g., "single-sided", "double-sided", "monochrome", and "color"). The scan information includes all scan settings available to the MFP 10B (size settings "A3", "A4", color settings "monochrome", "color", and resolution settings "300 dpi", "600 dpi"). The terminal device 100 displays a setting screen in T34. The setting screen is a screen for setting scan settings to be used in the push scan function. In this process, the user performs an operation to set the size setting "A4", the number of colors setting "monochrome", and the resolution setting "300 dpi" on the terminal device 100 in T36. As a result, the terminal device 100 transmits first scan setting information including the size setting "A4", the number of colors setting "monochrome", and the resolution setting "300 dpi" to the server 200 in T40.

[0029] When the server 200 receives the first scan setting information from the terminal device 100 in T40, the server 200 associates the first scan setting information with the serial number "SN2" and stores it in the setting table 242 in T42. The server 200 transmits the first scan setting information to the MFP 10B in T44.

[0030] When MFP 10B receives the first scan setting information from server 200 in T44, it stores the first scan setting information in non-volatile memory in T46, and stores serial number "SN2" in cartridge 16B in T48. MFP 10B transmits a second completion notification to server 200 in T50 indicating that registration of the first scan setting information is complete. Server 200 receives the second completion notification from MFP 10B in T50, and transmits the second completion notification to terminal device 100 in T52.

[0031] When the terminal device 100 receives the second completion notification from the server 200 in T52, the terminal device 100 displays in T54 a registration completion screen including a message indicating that information required to use the push scan function has been registered in the MFP 10B and the server 200. This allows the user to know that the push scan function of the MFP 10B is now available for use.

[0032] (First push scan process; Figure 3) A first push scan process in which the push scan function of MFP 10B is used will be described with reference to Fig. 3. This process is in a state after the registration process of Fig. 2. That is, the non-volatile memory of MFP 10B stores destination information "AP" and first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi"). Also, in the setting table 242 of server 200, the destination information "AP", the serial number "SN2", and the first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") are stored in association with each other.

[0033] In T110, the user executes a push scan operation on the MFP 10B to utilize the push scan function. As a result, the MFP 10B displays a destination selection screen. The destination selection screen is a screen for selecting a destination to which scanned image data is to be transmitted. The destination selection screen displays destination information stored in the non-volatile memory of the MFP 10B. In this process, the destination information "AP" is displayed on the destination selection screen. Note that, when a plurality of pieces of destination information are stored in the non-volatile memory, the plurality of pieces of destination information are displayed on the destination selection screen. In T114, the user executes an operation for selecting the destination information "AP". As a result, the MFP 10B displays a scan setting screen in T116. The scan setting screen includes a size setting field, a number of colors setting field, a resolution setting field, an OK button, and a cancel button. On the scan setting screen, the first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") stored in the non-volatile memory has been selected. The user can change the scan setting on the scan setting screen. In T118, the user executes an operation of selecting the OK button on the MFP 10B. As a result, in T120, the MFP 10B executes a scan of the document according to the scan settings (i.e., "A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") set on the scan setting screen, and generates scanned image data. In T122, the MFP 10B transmits the scanned image data, the serial number "SN2", and the destination information "AP" selected in T114 to the server 200.

[0034] When the server 200 receives the scanned image data, the serial number "SN2", and the destination information "AP" from the MFP 10B in T122, the server 200 stores the scanned image data in the non-volatile memory 236 in T124. In this manner, the scanned image data generated by the MFP 10B is uploaded to the server 200. The server 200 uses the destination information "AP" to identify the terminal device 100 in which the application program 142 is stored (installed) as the destination of the scanned image data, and transmits an upload notification to the terminal device 100 in T126. The upload notification is a notification for notifying that the scanned image data has been uploaded to the server 200.

[0035] When the terminal device 100 receives the upload notification from the server 200 in T126, the terminal device 100 displays a notification screen including a message indicating that the upload notification has been received in T128. The user executes a download operation on the terminal device 100 to download the scan image data in T130. As a result, the terminal device 100 transmits a scan image data request to the server 200 in T132, and receives the scan image data from the server 200 in T134. The terminal device 100 stores the scan image data received from the server 200 in the non-volatile memory 136. In this way, the user can use the scan image data generated by the MFP 10B in the terminal device 100 by using the push scan function of the MFP 10B.

[0036] (First exchange process; Figure 4) The first replacement process will be described with reference to Fig. 4. In the first replacement process, cartridge 16B is removed from MFP 10B, and then cartridge 16B is attached to MFP 10A. The initial state of the first replacement process is similar to the initial state of the first push scan process in Fig. 3. Also, in the initial state of the first replacement process, an XMPP connection is established between MFP 10A and server 200.

[0037] In T210, the user removes cartridge 16B from MFP 10B and installs cartridge 16B in MFP 10A. When cartridge 16B is installed, MFP 10A determines that serial number "SN2" is stored in cartridge 16B, and in T212 acquires serial number "SN2" stored in cartridge 16B and stores serial number "SN2" as replacement information in non-volatile memory 36. The replacement information is information that identifies the device in which cartridge 16B was previously installed.

[0038] In T220, the user executes a search operation to search for devices belonging to LAN4 on the terminal device 100. In response to this, the terminal device 100 broadcasts a search signal to LAN4 in T222.

[0039] When the MFP 10A receives a search signal from the terminal device 100 at T222, it transmits a response signal to the terminal device 100 at T224, the response signal including the serial number “SN1” of the MFP 10A, the exchange information “SN2” stored in the non-volatile memory 36, and the capability information.

[0040] When the terminal device 100 receives a response signal from the MFP 10A in T224, the terminal device 100 specifies that the response signal includes replacement information, and determines in T226 that a used cartridge that was used in a device that can use the push scan function (i.e., MFP 10B) is attached to the MFP 10A. In this case, the terminal device 100 transmits a transmission instruction including the serial number "SN1", replacement information "SN2", and application ID "AP" to the server 200 in T230. The transmission instruction is a signal for instructing the server 200 to transmit the first scan setting information stored in the setting table 242 of the server 200 in association with the replacement information "SN2" included in the transmission instruction to the MFP 10A identified by the serial number "SN1" included in the transmission instruction. Note that, when the response signal received from the MFP 10A does not include replacement information, the terminal device 100 does not transmit the transmission instruction to the server 200.

[0041] When the server 200 receives a transmission instruction from the terminal device 100 in T230, the server 200 identifies the first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") stored in the setting table 242 of the server 200 in association with the exchange information "SN2" included in the transmission instruction. In T232, the server 200 transmits a storage instruction including the first scan setting information and destination information "AP" to the MFP 10A. The storage instruction is a signal for instructing the MFP 10A to store the first scan setting information and the destination information "AP".

[0042] When the MFP 10A receives a storage instruction from the server 200 in T232, it stores the first scan setting information and destination information "AP" in the storage instruction in the non-volatile memory 36 in T234, and stores the serial number "SN1" in place of the serial number "SN2" in the cartridge 16B in T236. The MFP 10A transmits a third completion notification to the server 200 in T240, indicating that storage of the first scan setting information and destination information "AP" has been completed.

[0043] When the server 200 receives a third completion notification from the MFP 10A in T240, the server 200 updates the setting table 242 in T242. Specifically, the server 200 changes the serial number "SN2" stored in the setting table 242 in association with the exchange information "SN2" included in the transmission instruction to the serial number "SN1". In this process, the server 200 does not change the destination information "AP" stored in the setting table 242 in association with the exchange information "SN2" because the application ID "AP" included in the transmission instruction matches the destination information "AP" stored in the setting table 242 in association with the exchange information "SN2". This allows the user to use the push scan function of the MFP 10A. Note that if the application ID included in the transmission instruction does not match the destination information stored in the setting table 242 in association with the exchange information, the server 200 stores the application ID included in the transmission instruction in the setting table 242 as destination information. In T244, the server 200 transmits to the MFP 10A a fourth completion notification indicating that the settings for using the push scan function of the MFP 10A have been completed.

[0044] When the MFP 10A receives the fourth completion notification from the server 200 in T244, the MFP 10A displays in T246 a setting completion screen including a message indicating that the setting for using the push scan function of the MFP 10A has been completed, thereby letting the user know that the push scan function of the MFP 10A can now be used.

[0045] (Second push scan process; Figure 5) A second push scan process in which the push scan function of the MFP 10A is used will be described with reference to Fig. 5. This process is in a state after the first replacement process in Fig. 4. That is, the non-volatile memory 36 of the MFP 10A stores destination information "AP" and first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi"). Also, in the setting table 242 of the server 200, the destination information "AP", the serial number "SN1", and the first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") are stored in association with each other.

[0046] 4, except that T310, T314, and T318 are operations on MFP 10A. T312, T316, and T320 are similar to T112, T116, and T120, respectively, except that T312, T316, and T320 are processes executed by MFP 10A. In T322, MFP 10A transmits scan image data, serial number "SN1", and destination information "AP" to server 200. T324 to T334 are similar to T124 to T134. In this way, the user can use the scan image data generated by MFP 10B on terminal device 100 by using the push scan function of MFP 10B.

[0047] (Second exchange process; Figure 6) The second replacement process will be described with reference to FIG. 6. In the second replacement process, similarly to the first replacement process in FIG. 4, the cartridge 16B is removed from the MFP 10B, and then the cartridge 16B is attached to the MFP 10A. The initial state of the second replacement process is the state after the registration process in FIG. 2, and the push scan function of the MFP 10A is available. That is, the destination information "AP" and the second scan setting information ("A4", "color", "300 dpi") are stored in the non-volatile memory 36 of the MFP 10A. In addition, in the setting table 242 of the server 200, the destination information "AP", the serial number "SN1", and the second scan setting information ("A4", "color", "300 dpi") are stored in association with each other, and the destination information "AP", the serial number "SN2", and the first scan setting information ("A4", "monochrome", "300 dpi") are stored in association with each other. In the second replacement process, a situation is assumed in which MFP 10B has broken down.

[0048] T410 to T432 are the same as T210 to T232 in FIG. 4. When the MFP 10A receives the storage instruction from the server 200 in T432, it determines that the second scan setting information is stored in the non-volatile memory 36, and displays an inquiry screen in T434. The inquiry screen is a screen for inquiring of the user as to whether or not to store the first setting information in the MFP 10A instead of the second scan setting information. The inquiry screen is a screen that is displayed only when the scan setting information is stored in the non-volatile memory 36. For this reason, after T232 of the first replacement process in FIG. 3, the MFP 10A does not display the inquiry screen. Note that, in a modified example, the MFP 10A may transmit inquiry screen data representing the inquiry screen to the terminal device 100. In T436, the user executes a non-permission operation on the MFP 10A to not permit the first setting information to be stored in the MFP 10A instead of the second scan setting information. In this case, the MFP 10A does not store the first scan setting information and destination information "AP" in the storage instruction in the non-volatile memory 36. T438 is the same as T236. In T440, the MFP 10A transmits to the server 200 an unchanged notification indicating that the information stored in the non-volatile memory 36 has not been changed. Upon receiving the unchanged notification from the MFP 10A in T440, the server 200 transmits an unchanged notification to the terminal device 100 in T442.

[0049] When the terminal device 100 receives the no-change notification from the server 200 at T442, it displays an no-change screen including a message indicating that the information stored in the non-volatile memory 36 has not been changed.

[0050] Note that, when the user performs an authorization operation on the MFP 10A to permit the MFP 10A to store the first setting information in place of the second scan setting information while the MFP 10A is displaying the inquiry screen, the MFP 10A stores the first scan setting information and destination information "AP" in the storage instruction in the non-volatile memory 36 in place of the second scan setting information and destination information "AP". After that, the same processes as those in T240 to T246 in FIG. 4 are executed.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, when the first scan setting information is received from the server 200 in a state where no scan setting information is stored in the MFP 10A, the MFP 10A stores the first setting information in the MFP 10A. On the other hand, as shown in FIG. 6, when the first scan setting information is received from the server 200 in a state where the second scan setting information is stored in the MFP 10A, the MFP 10A does not store the first scan setting information in the MFP 10A. When the second scan setting information is stored in the MFP 10A, it is highly likely that the user desires to execute a scan function using the second scan setting information when using the MFP 10A. That is, it is highly likely that the user does not desire to change the scan setting information stored in the MFP 10A. According to the above configuration, it is possible to prevent the scan setting information stored in the MFP 10A from being changed unintentionally. Therefore, it is possible to improve the user's convenience.

[0052] 6, when the MFP 10A receives the first scan setting information from the server 200 while the second scan setting information is stored in the MFP 10A, the MFP 10A displays a query screen. This allows the user to select whether or not to change the scan setting information stored in the MFP 10A. This improves user convenience.

[0053] (Effects of this embodiment) According to the above configuration, when cartridge 16B is attached to MFP 10A after cartridge 16B is removed from MFP 10B, MFP 10A transmits a response signal including serial numbers "SN1" and "SN2" to terminal device 100. Then, MFP 10A receives the first scan setting information from server 200. Therefore, MFP 10A can store the first scan setting information. That is, the first scan setting information stored in MFP 10B can be easily passed on to MFP 10A.

[0054] Furthermore, the user does not need to perform an operation for setting scan setting information in order to use the push scan function of the MFP 10A, which improves user convenience.

[0055] (Correspondence) MFP 10B is an example of a "first function executing device." MFP 10A is an example of a "second function executing device." The scan function is an example of a "specific function." The first scan setting information is an example of "setting information." The serial number "SN2" is an example of "first device identification information." Cartridge 16B is an example of a "consumable cartridge." The serial number "SN1" is an example of "second device identification information." The first scan setting information is an example of "first setting information." The second scan setting information is an example of "second setting information."

[0056] T212 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "first memory control unit" of the "second function executing device." T224 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "response signal transmitting unit" of the "second function executing device." T234 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "second memory control unit" of the "second function executing device."

[0057] T222 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "search signal transmitting unit" of the "terminal device computer." T224 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "response signal receiving unit" of the "terminal device computer." T230 in Fig. 4 is an example of a process executed by a "transmission instruction transmitting unit" of the "terminal device computer."

[0058] Although specific examples of the present invention have been described above in detail, these are merely examples and do not limit the scope of the claims. The technology described in the claims includes various modifications and alterations of the specific examples exemplified above. Modifications of the above-mentioned embodiments are listed below.

[0059] (First Modification) The "function performing device" may be a printer or a scanner.

[0060] (Second Modification) The "device identification information" is not limited to a serial number, and may be a device ID or the like.

[0061] (Third Modification) The “destination information” is not limited to the application ID, and may be identification information for identifying the terminal device 100.

[0062] (Fourth Modification) The "consumable cartridge" is not limited to an ink cartridge, but may be a toner cartridge, a drum cartridge, or the like.

[0063] (Fifth Modification) The server 200 may be a server that provides a flat-rate printing service (hereinafter, referred to as "flat-rate service"). The flat-rate service is a billing service that charges a predetermined amount (hereinafter, referred to as "flat-rate fee") when the number of sheets of printing paper printed by a printer in a predetermined period (e.g., one month) is equal to or less than the contracted number of sheets (e.g., 1000 sheets), and charges a billing amount that is the sum of the flat-rate fee and an amount according to the number of sheets exceeding the contracted number of sheets when the number of sheets of printing paper printed by the printer in the predetermined period exceeds the contracted number of sheets. In this modification, the MFPs 10A and 10B store a service flag. The service flag indicates either "ON" indicating that the MFP is receiving the flat-rate service, or "OFF" indicating that the MFP is not receiving the flat-rate service. When the service flag is "ON", MFPs 10A and 10B periodically (e.g., every 24 hours) transmit number information indicating the number of printed sheets to server 200. On the other hand, when the service flag is "OFF", MFPs 10A and 10B do not transmit number information. In setting table 242 of this modified example, service flags are stored instead of scan setting information.

[0064] Assume that the service flag of MFP 10B is "ON". In this case, the service flag "ON" is stored in MFP 10B, and the service flag "OFF" is stored in MFP 10A. In addition, in the setting table 242 of the server 200, the destination information "AP", the serial number "SN2", and the service flag "ON" are stored in association with each other. In this state, when the cartridge 16B is removed from the MFP 10B and the cartridge 16B is attached to the MFP 10A, the MFP 10A stores the serial number "SN2" stored in the cartridge 16B as replacement information in the non-volatile memory 36. Then, the same processes as T220 to T230 in FIG. 4 are executed. Then, the server 200 transmits a storage instruction including the service flag "ON" and the destination information "AP" to the MFP 10A. When the MFP 10A receives the storage instruction from the server 200, it stores the service flag "ON" and the destination information "AP" in the storage instruction in the non-volatile memory 36, and stores the serial number "SN1" in the cartridge 16B instead of the serial number "SN2". In this way, the user can store the service flag "ON" in the MFP 10A by removing the cartridge 16B from the MFP 10B and then attaching the cartridge 16B to the MFP 10A. That is, the MFP 10A can be changed from a state in which the flat-rate service is not being provided to a state in which the flat-rate service is being provided. In this modification, the print function and the service flag are examples of the "specific function" and the "setting information".

[0065] (Sixth Variation) When first scan setting information is received from server 200, MFP 10A may store the first scan setting information in MFP 10A regardless of whether second scan setting information is stored in MFP 10A.

[0066] (Seventh Modification) When the MFP 10A receives first scan setting information from the server 200 while the second scan setting information is stored in the MFP 10A, the MFP 10A may store the first scan setting information in the MFP 10A without displaying the inquiry screen. In this modification, the "display control unit" can be omitted.

[0067] 4, the MFP 10A may transmit a response signal including the serial number "SN1", the serial number "SN2", and the capability information to the terminal device. In this modification, the terminal device 100 determines that a used cartridge that was used in a device that has a push scan function is attached to the MFP 10A, because the response signal includes two serial numbers.

[0068] (Ninth Modification) In the above embodiment, the processes in FIGS. 2 to 6 are realized by software (for example, programs 40, 140, 142, 240), but at least one of these processes may be realized by hardware such as a logic circuit.

[0069] In addition, the technical elements described in this specification or drawings exert technical utility alone or in various combinations, and are not limited to the combinations described in the claims at the time of filing. In addition, the technologies exemplified in this specification or drawings achieve multiple objectives simultaneously, and achieving one of those objectives itself has technical utility.

[0070] In the scope of the claims at the time of filing of this patent application, even if each claim is dependent on only some of the claims, it is not limited to the fact that each claim can be dependent on only those some of the claims. Each claim can also be dependent on other claims that are not dependent on it at the time of filing to the extent that there is no technical contradiction. In other words, the technology of each claim can be combined in various ways as follows: (Item 1) A communication system comprising a first function execution device, a second function execution device, a terminal device, and a server, the first function executing device stores setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function executing device; the server stores first device identification information for identifying the first function performing device and the setting information in association with each other; the first function performing device stores the first device identification information in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the first function performing device; The second function execution device: storing the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device after the consumable cartridge is removed from the first function performing device; when a search signal is received from the terminal device while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, transmitting a response signal to the terminal device, the response signal including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device; The terminal device transmitting the search signal while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device; receiving the response signal from the second function performing device when the search signal is transmitted; when the response signal is received from the second function performing device, transmitting a transmission instruction to the server, the transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits the setting information stored in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction; the second function performing device stores the setting information when the setting information is received from the server; Communication systems. (Item 2) a second function performing device, a first storage control unit that, when a consumable cartridge in which first device identification information for identifying a first function performing device is stored is removed from the first function performing device and then the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, stores the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge in the second function performing device; a response signal transmitting unit configured to transmit, when a search signal is received from a terminal device in a state in which the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, a response signal including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device to the terminal device, when the terminal device receives the response signal from the second function performing device, the terminal device transmits a transmission instruction to a server, the transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits, to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction, first setting information stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction, the first setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function performing device. The response signal transmitting unit; a second storage control unit that stores the first setting information in the second function executing device when the first setting information is received from the server; A second function execution device comprising: (Item 3) the specific function is a scan function, The first setting information is scan setting information. the second function performing device is capable of performing the scan function; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits the scan setting information and destination information indicating a destination of the scanned image data to the second function executing device; the second storage control unit, when receiving the scan setting information and the destination information from the server, stores the scan setting information and the destination information in the second function executing device; The second function execution device further comprises: a data generating unit that, when a scan operation for causing the second function executing device to execute the scan function is received, executes the scan function using the scan setting information to generate scan image data; Item 3. The second function executing device according to item 2, further comprising: a data transmitting unit that transmits the scanned image data and the destination information to the server when the scanned image data is generated. (Item 4) The second storage control unit includes: storing the first setting information in the second function performing device when the first setting information is received from the server in a state where no setting information is stored in the second function performing device; A second function executing device according to item 2 or 3, in which, when second setting information different from the first setting information is stored in the second function executing device and the first setting information is received from the server, the first setting information is not stored in the second function executing device. (Item 5) The second function execution device further comprises: a display control unit that, when the first setting information is received from the server in a state in which the second setting information is stored in the second function performing device, displays on a display unit an inquiry screen for inquiring of a user as to whether or not to store the first setting information in the second function performing device instead of the second setting information, The second storage control unit includes: when the user selects on the inquiry screen that the first setting information be stored in the second function performing device, storing the first setting information in the second function performing device instead of the second setting information; 5. The second function executing device according to item 4, wherein when the user selects on the inquiry screen not to store the first setting information in the second function executing device, the first setting information is not stored in the second function executing device instead of the second setting information. (Item 6) A computer program for a terminal device, comprising: The terminal device computer is composed of the following parts: a search signal transmitting unit that transmits a search signal; a response signal receiving unit configured to receive a response signal from a second function performing device when the search signal is transmitted, the response signal including first device identification information for identifying the first function performing device and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device; a transmission instruction transmitting unit configured to transmit, when the response signal is received from the second function performing device, a transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal to a server, when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits setting information stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction, the setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function performing device, to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction; when the second function performing device receives the setting information from the server, the second function performing device stores the setting information in the second function performing device; The transmission instruction transmitting unit; A computer program that functions as a [Explanation of symbols]

[0071] 2: communication system, 4: LAN, 6: Internet, 10A: MFP, 10B: MFP, 12: operation unit, 14: display unit, 16: print execution unit, 16A: cartridge, 16B: cartridge, 18: scan execution unit, 20: communication I / F, 30: control unit, 32: CPU, 34: volatile memory, 36: non-volatile memory, 40: program, 100: terminal device, 112: operation unit, 114: display unit, 120: communication I / F, 130: control unit, 132: CPU, 134: volatile memory, 136: non-volatile memory, 140: OS program, 142: application program, 200: server, 220: communication I / F, 230: control unit, 232: CPU, 234: volatile memory, 236: non-volatile memory, 240: program, 242: setting table

Claims

1. A communication system comprising a first function execution device, a second function execution device, a terminal device, and a server, the first function executing device stores setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function executing device; the server stores first device identification information for identifying the first function performing device and the setting information in association with each other; the first function performing device stores the first device identification information in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the first function performing device; the second function performing device, storing the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge when the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device after the consumable cartridge is removed from the first function performing device; when a search signal is received from the terminal device while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, a response signal including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device is transmitted to the terminal device; The terminal device transmitting the search signal while the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device; receiving the response signal from the second function performing device when the search signal is transmitted; when the response signal is received from the second function performing device, transmitting a transmission instruction to the server, the transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits the setting information stored in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction; the second function performing device stores the setting information when the setting information is received from the server; Communication systems.

2. a second function performing device, a first storage control unit that, when a consumable cartridge in which first device identification information for identifying a first function performing device is stored is removed from the first function performing device and then the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, stores the first device identification information stored in the consumable cartridge in the second function performing device; a response signal transmitting unit configured to transmit, when a search signal is received from a terminal device in a state in which the consumable cartridge is attached to the second function performing device, a response signal including the first device identification information and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device to the terminal device, when the terminal device receives the response signal from the second function performing device, the terminal device transmits a transmission instruction to a server, the transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits, to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction, first setting information stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction, the first setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function performing device; The response signal transmitting unit; a second storage control unit configured to store the first setting information in the second function executing device when the first setting information is received from the server; A second function performing device comprising:

3. the specific function is a scan function, The first setting information is scan setting information. the second function performing device is capable of performing the scan function; when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits the scan setting information and destination information indicating a destination of the scanned image data to the second function executing device; the second storage control unit, when receiving the scan setting information and the destination information from the server, stores the scan setting information and the destination information in the second function executing device; The second function execution device further comprises: a data generating unit that, when a scan operation for causing the second function executing device to execute the scan function is accepted, executes the scan function using the scan setting information to generate scan image data; The second function executing device according to claim 2 , further comprising: a data transmitting unit configured to transmit the scanned image data and the destination information to the server when the scanned image data is generated.

4. The second storage control unit when the first setting information is received from the server in a state where no setting information is stored in the second function performing device, storing the first setting information in the second function performing device; 3. The second function executing device according to claim 2, wherein when second setting information different from the first setting information is stored in the second function executing device and the first setting information is received from the server, the first setting information is not stored in the second function executing device.

5. The second function execution device further comprises: a display control unit that, when the first setting information is received from the server in a state in which the second setting information is stored in the second function performing device, displays on a display unit an inquiry screen for inquiring of a user as to whether or not to store the first setting information in the second function performing device instead of the second setting information, The second storage control unit when the user selects on the inquiry screen that the first setting information be stored in the second function performing device, storing the first setting information in the second function performing device instead of the second setting information; 5. The second function executing device according to claim 4, wherein when the user selects on the inquiry screen not to store the first setting information in the second function executing device, the first setting information is not stored in the second function executing device in place of the second setting information.

6. A computer program for a terminal device, comprising: The terminal device computer is composed of the following parts: a search signal transmitting unit that transmits a search signal; a response signal receiving unit configured to receive a response signal from a second function performing device when the search signal is transmitted, the response signal including first device identification information for identifying the first function performing device and second device identification information for identifying the second function performing device; a transmission instruction transmitting unit configured to transmit, when the response signal is received from the second function performing device, a transmission instruction including the first device identification information included in the response signal and the second device identification information included in the response signal to a server, when the server receives the transmission instruction from the terminal device, the server transmits setting information stored in the server in association with the first device identification information included in the transmission instruction, the setting information corresponding to a specific function executable by the first function performing device, to the second function performing device identified by the second device identification information included in the transmission instruction; when the second function performing device receives the setting information from the server, the second function performing device stores the setting information in the second function performing device; The transmission instruction transmitting unit; A computer program that functions as a

Images