Program, method for controlling information processing apparatus, and information processing apparatus

Abstract

To provide a mechanism that allows image processing apparatuses from a plurality of manufacturers to perform image reading in common and to perform image reading specific to an image processing apparatus from a predetermined manufacturer.SOLUTION: A program includes: an acquisition step capable of acquiring, from an image processing apparatus 105, first information on a first capability that can be normally executed in a reading unit 316 and second information on a second capability that can be specifically executed in the reading unit 316, by using a common protocol set in common to a plurality of manufacturers of the image processing apparatuses 105; and a processing step of performing available processing of making the first capability and the second capability available in reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 11

Description

[Technical field]

[0001] The present invention relates to a program, a control method for an information processing device, and an information processing device. [Background technology]

[0002] An operating system (OS) is stored in advance in a personal computer. The OS has functions for basic management and control of the personal computer. In addition, a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a printing function, a scanning function, etc. may be connected to the personal computer so as to be able to communicate with the personal computer. Therefore, the OS has a standard function for executing a printing function or a scanning function, regardless of the multifunction peripherals of multiple manufacturers. Therefore, for example, when a printing function that is unique to a multifunction peripheral of a specific manufacturer, that is, a printing function specific to a multifunction peripheral of a specific manufacturer, is to be executed, the OS may not be able to cope with the printing function, and the specific printing function may not be executed. In addition, the OS acquires capability information related to the printing function from the multifunction peripheral, regardless of whether the printing function to be executed by the multifunction peripheral is a specific printing function. For this capability information, a markup language represented by XML (Extensible Markup Language) is relatively often used. Patent Document 1 discloses a client-server system having a client configured by a personal computer and a server connected to the client so as to be able to communicate with the client. In this client-server system, print commands can be included as XML comment lines in the data sent from the server to the client. [Prior art documents] [Patent documents]

[0003] [Patent Document 1] JP 2011-258123 A Summary of the Invention [Problem to be solved by the invention]

[0004] However, the client-server system described in Patent Document 1 cannot fully accommodate, for example, a scan function specific to a multifunction device of a specific manufacturer, and the specific scan function cannot be executed.

[0005] The present invention has been made in view of the above problems, and has an object to provide a mechanism that allows image processing devices of multiple manufacturers to read images in common, and also allows image processing devices of a specific manufacturer to read images specific to the image processing device of the specific manufacturer. [Means for solving the problem]

[0006] In order to achieve the above-mentioned object, the program of the present invention is a program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading means for reading images and processes information transmitted and received between the image forming device, wherein the image forming device pre-stores first information regarding a first capability that is set commonly by multiple manufacturers of the image forming device and can be executed as standard by the reading means, and second information regarding a second capability that is set specifically by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and can be executed by the reading means, and the program is characterized in having an acquisition step that can acquire the first information and the second information from the image forming device using a common protocol that is set commonly by the multiple manufacturers of the image forming device, and a processing step that performs an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step. Effect of the Invention

[0007] According to the present invention, image processing devices of a plurality of manufacturers can be caused to read an image in common, and an image specific to an image processing device of a given manufacturer can be read. [Brief description of the drawings]

[0008] [Figure 1] FIG. 1 is a diagram illustrating an example of an image processing system according to a first embodiment. [Diagram 2] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. [Diagram 3] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of the image processing device. [Figure 4] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a software configuration of the information processing device. [Diagram 5] FIG. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a software configuration of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 6] FIG. 1 is a diagram showing scanner operation methods that are supported as standard by information processing devices. [Figure 7] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing information related to a reading unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 8] 11A and 11B are diagrams illustrating an example of an operation on a scanner driver screen. [Figure 9] 10 is a flowchart showing a process commonly executed in image forming apparatuses of a plurality of manufacturers. [Figure 10] 4 is a flowchart showing a process executed by the information processing device. [Figure 11] 11 is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. [Figure 12] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing information related to a reading unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 13] This is the scanner driver screen. [Figure 14] FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of an original to be read; [Figure 15A] 11 is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 in the second embodiment. [Figure 15B] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing information related to a reading unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 16A]11 is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 in the third embodiment. [Figure 16B] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing information related to a reading unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 16C] FIG. 11 is a diagram for explaining an example of calculation of address information. [Figure 17A] 11 is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of a scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 in the fourth embodiment. [Figure 17B] FIG. 4 is a diagram showing information related to a reading unit of the image processing apparatus. [Figure 18] FIG. 13 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to a fifth embodiment. [Figure 19] FIG. 13 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to a sixth embodiment. [Figure 20] FIG. 13 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to a seventh embodiment. [Figure 21] FIG. 23 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to an eighth embodiment. [Figure 22] FIG. 13 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to a ninth embodiment. [Diagram 23] FIG. 23 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing device according to a tenth embodiment. DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

[0009] Each embodiment of the present invention will be described in detail below with reference to the drawings. However, the configurations described in each of the following embodiments are merely examples, and the scope of the present invention is not limited by the configurations described in each embodiment. For example, each part constituting the present invention can be replaced with any configuration that can exert a similar function. In addition, any configuration may be added. In addition, any two or more configurations (features) of each embodiment can be combined.

[0010] <<First embodiment>> Hereinafter, the first embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 1 to 14. FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of an image processing system according to the first embodiment. The image processing system 1000 shown in FIG. 1 includes a server 101, a router 103, an information processing device 104, and an image processing device (image forming device) 105. The server 101, the information processing device 104, and the image processing device 105 are connected to each other via the router 103 so that they can communicate with each other. The connection method is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a wired connection or a wireless connection. The server 101 is, for example, a server for controlling a network environment within a company. In this embodiment, the server 101 is also assumed to have a function of exchanging information between the Internet 102 and the intranet. The information processing device 104 is, for example, a desktop or notebook personal computer, a tablet terminal, a smartphone, etc., and can process information transmitted and received between the image processing device 105. The information processing device 104 participates in the intranet environment within the company, and can access resources on the Internet 102 via the server 101. On the Internet 102, there are, for example, distribution sites for printer drivers, scanner drivers, etc. of the manufacturers (vendors) of the image processing devices 105. The image processing device 105 is, for example, a multifunction peripheral (MFP) having a print function, a copy function, a scan function, a fax function, etc., but in this embodiment, it is sufficient that the image processing device is an image forming device having at least a scan function.

[0011] <Hardware configuration of information processing device> Fig. 2 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an information processing device. As shown in Fig. 2, the information processing device 104 has a main board 201, an external storage device 210, a display unit 211, and an input unit 212. The main board 201 is a control board (computer) that controls the entire information processing device 104. The main board 201 has a wired NW_I / F 202, a wireless NW_I / F 203, a USB_I / F 204, a CPU 206, a ROM / RAM (storage unit) 207, a memory controller 208, and an operation unit I / F 209. These pieces of hardware included in the main board 201 are connected to each other via a system bus 205 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0012] The wired NW_I / F 202 performs communication control of a communication network such as Ethernet. The information processing device 104 can communicate with a network in a company or a device on the Internet 102 via the wired NW_I / F 202. The wireless NW_I / F 203 mainly controls wireless communication (Wi-Fi (registered trademark) communication) conforming to the IEEE802.11 series. The wireless NW_I / F 203 also functions as an interface for a mobile communication system such as LTE or 5G. The information processing device 104 can also communicate with a network in a company or a device on the Internet 102 via the wireless NW_I / F 203. The information processing device 104 can also directly access the Internet 102 via a base station of the mobile communication system. The USB_I / F 204 is connected to a peripheral device conforming to the USB standard.

[0013] The CPU 206 executes control programs such as an operating system and applications deployed on the ROM / RAM 207, and controls the operation of the entire information processing device 104. The ROM / RAM 207 has a storage area for storing a startup program for the information processing device 104 and for working. The memory controller 208 controls transmission and reception of data with the external storage device 210. The external storage device 210 has a storage area auxiliary to the ROM / RAM 207. The external storage device 210 is not particularly limited, and examples of the external storage device 210 include recording media such as a hard disk, a USB memory, and an optical memory. The external storage device 210 stores programs, temporary data, files, and the like. The programs include, for example, control programs for causing a computer to execute each unit and each means (a control method of the information processing device) of the information processing device 104, as well as an OS, applications, and the like. The operation unit I / F 209 is connected to a display unit 211 and an input unit 212. The display unit 211 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and functions as a display unit that displays various information to a user. The input unit 212 is an operation device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel built into the display unit 211, and functions as a receiving unit that receives operations from a user.

[0014] <Hardware configuration of image processing device> Fig. 3 is a block diagram showing an example of a hardware configuration of an image processing device. As shown in Fig. 3, the image processing device 105 has a main board 301, an external storage device 312, a display unit 313, an input unit 314, a printing unit 315, and a reading unit (reading means) 316. The main board 301 is a control board that controls the entire image processing device 105. The main board 301 has a wired NW_I / F 302, a wireless NW_I / F 303, a USB_I / F 304, a CPU 306, a ROM·RAM (storage unit) 307, a memory controller 308, a printing unit I / F 310, and a reading unit I / F 311. These pieces of hardware included in the main board 301 are connected to each other via a system bus 305 so as to be able to communicate with each other.

[0015] The wired NW_I / F 302 performs communication control of a wired communication network such as Ethernet, and communication control of a telephone line connected to a telephone line network (not shown). The image processing device 105 can communicate with a network in a company or a device on the Internet 102 via the wired NW_I / F 302. The wireless NW_I / F 303 mainly controls wireless communication conforming to the IEEE802.11 series. The wireless NW_I / F 303 also functions as an interface for a mobile communication system such as LTE or 5G. The image processing device 105 can also communicate with a network in a company or a device on the Internet 102 via the wireless NW_I / F 303. The image processing device 105 can also directly access the Internet 102 via a base station of a mobile communication system. When connecting to the Internet 102, the image processing device 105 can select a wired connection or a wireless connection using a display unit 313 or an input unit 314. The USB_I / F 304 is connected to peripheral devices conforming to the USB standard.

[0016] The CPU 306 executes control programs such as an operating system and applications deployed on the ROM / RAM 307, and controls the overall operation of the image processing device 105. The ROM / RAM 307 has a storage area for storing a startup program for the image processing device 105, for saving images resulting from reading an original from the reading unit 316, and for various work operations. The memory controller 308 controls transmission and reception of data to and from the external storage device 312. The external storage device 312 has an auxiliary storage area for the ROM / RAM 307. The external storage device 312 is not particularly limited, and examples of the external storage device 312 include recording media such as a hard disk, a USB memory, and an optical memory. The external storage device 312 stores programs, temporary data, files, and the like. The programs include, for example, a control program for causing a computer to execute each unit or each means of the image processing device 105, as well as an OS, applications, and the like. The operation unit I / F 309 is connected to a display unit 313 and an input unit 314. The display unit 313 is a display device such as a liquid crystal panel or an organic EL panel, and functions as a display unit that displays various information to the user. The input unit 314 is an operation device such as a keyboard, a mouse, or a touch panel built into the display unit 211, and functions as a reception unit that receives operations from the user. The printing unit I / F 310 is connected to the printing unit 315 and transmits image data for printing to the printing unit 315. The reading unit I / F 311 is connected to the reading unit 316 and receives image data from the reading unit 316. The printing unit 315 is a printer engine, and can perform printing by various printing methods such as an electrophotographic method and an inkjet method. The printing unit 315 also includes a paper feed cassette that stores multiple types of paper, a double-sided printing mechanism, a black and white / color printing mechanism, a staple mechanism, a bookbinding mechanism, a trim mechanism, a shift sorter, and the like. The reading unit 316 is a scanner device, and is an image sensor that reads images from a document. Data of the image (scanned image) read by the reading unit 316 is transmitted to the information processing device 104. The reading unit 316 also includes a feeder (ADF) that automatically feeds paper to be read.

[0017] <Software configuration of information processing device> FIG. 4 is a block diagram showing an example of a software configuration of an information processing device. FIG. 4(a) is a block diagram showing an example of a software configuration of the entire information processing device. FIG. 4(b) is a block diagram showing an example of a software configuration of a scanner driver included in the information processing device. As shown in FIG. 4(a), the information processing device 104 has an external I / F control unit 411, an OS 412, a UI control unit 414, application software 415, and a scanner driver 416, which are software that are mainly stored and operated in the ROM / RAM 207. The external I / F control unit 411 communicates with the server 101 using the wired NW_I / F 202 or the wireless NW_I / F 203. This enables access to the website of the manufacturer of the image processing device and the website of the OS manufacturer that exist on the Internet 102. The external I / F control unit 411 also transmits a scan job to the image processing device 105 and receives a scanned image from the image processing device 105. The UI control unit 414 is a part that provides information to a user of the information processing device 104 and receives instructions from the user via the display unit 211 and the input unit 212. The OS 412 is an operating system that is stored in the ROM / RAM 207 and controls the overall operation of the information processing device 104. The application software 415 is software for performing image processing and the like. The application software 415 can select an image processing device 105 recognized by the OS 412, send a scan job to a scanner driver 416, receive a scanned image from the image processing device 105, and generate the results.

[0018] As shown in Fig. 4B, the scanner driver 416 includes a setting management unit 421, a configuration information management unit 422, an instruction receiving unit 423, a scanner image acquisition unit 424, a configuration information acquisition unit 425, and an output unit 426. The setting management unit 421 displays the operation mode of the application software 415 and options for the image processing device 105 recognized by the OS 412 on the UI control unit 414, and receives instructions to change various settings. The configuration information management unit 422 determines the capabilities of the reading unit 316 corresponding to the image processing device 105 selected by the setting management unit 421, and stores and manages them. The instruction receiving unit 423 receives, for example, an event in which the image processing device 105 recognized by the OS 412 has been selected, an event in which a scan job has been sent to the scanner driver 416, and the like, and performs processing corresponding to each event. When the application software 415 instructs the scanner driver 416 to acquire image data, the scanner image acquisition unit 424 issues the acquisition instruction to the image processing device 105 and acquires a scanned image from the image processing device 105. When the instruction reception unit 423 receives an event in which the image processing device 105 recognized by the OS 412 has been selected, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 acquires the basic capability of the reading unit 316 from the image processing device 105 based on an instruction from the instruction reception unit 423. This basic capability is a first capability, which will be described later. In addition, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 acquires an inherent capability of the reading unit 316 from the image processing device 105 as necessary. This inherent capability is a second capability, which will be described later. Information on the capabilities acquired by the configuration information acquisition unit 425 is managed by the configuration information management unit 422. The output unit 426 outputs the image data acquired by the scanner driver 416 and transmits it to the application software 415.

[0019] <Software configuration of image processing device> FIG. 5 is a block diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the image processing device. As shown in FIG. 5, the image processing device 105 has an external I / F control unit (image processing device external I / F control) 511, an OS (image processing device OS) 512, a reading control unit 513, and a reading unit 514. The image processing device 105 also has a UI control unit (image processing device UI control unit) 515, an operation control unit 516, an operation unit 517, and a configuration control unit (image processing device configuration control unit) 518. These software programs that the image processing device 105 has are mainly stored and operated in the ROM·RAM 307. The external I / F control unit 511 receives a scan job from the information processing device 104 and transmits data of a scanned image (scan data) using the wired NW_I / F 302 or the wireless NW_I / F 303. The OS 512 is an operating system that is stored in the ROM·RAM 307 and controls the operation of the entire image processing device 105. The OS 512 can also exchange information between each piece of software on the image processing device 105 and control its execution. The reading control unit 513 acquires image information from the reading unit 514 based on a scan job transmitted via the wired NW_I / F 302, the wireless NW_I / F 303, and the USB_I / F 304. The reading unit 514 is a scanner driver, and transmits image information read by the scanner driver to the reading control unit 513. The UI control unit 515 is a part that provides information to a user of the image processing device 105 via the display unit 313 and the input unit 314, and receives instructions from the user. As described above, the operation control unit 516 switches between each function when the image processing device 105 is a multifunction device having multiple functions. The operation unit 517 performs processing suitable for each function when the image processing device 105 is a multifunction device. The configuration control unit 518 manages information related to the reading unit 514 and holds the information as scanner capabilities. For example, two capabilities can be given as scanner capabilities. The first capability is a first capability that is set in common among multiple manufacturers of image processing devices 105 and is standardly executable by the reading unit 316 of each manufacturer's image processing device 105. Hereinafter, information related to this first capability will be referred to as "first information."The second capability is a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image processing device 105 and is executable by the reading unit 316 of the image processing device 105 of the specific manufacturer. Hereinafter, information related to this second capability will be referred to as "second information." In this embodiment, the first information and the second information are stored in advance, for example, in the ROM / RAM 307. The first information and the second information are acquired by the configuration information acquisition unit 425 of the information processing device 104 and managed by the configuration information management unit 422.

[0020] FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of a screen displayed on the display unit of the information processing device. FIG. 6(a) is an application software screen. FIG. 6(b) is a scanner selection screen. FIG. 6(c) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 7 is a diagram showing information related to the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 7(a) is a diagram showing the scanner capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 7(b) is a diagram showing a memory map of the ROM and RAM of the image processing device. FIG. 8 is a diagram showing an example of an operation on the scanner driver screen. FIGS. 8(a) to 8(g) are respectively diagrams showing an example of an operation on each operation area included in the scanner driver screen. The application software screen 601 shown in FIG. 6(a) includes a button 602, a button 603, a button 604, and a button 605. Note that the buttons included in the application software screen 601 are not limited to the buttons 602 to 605. The button 602 is a button operated when drawing a picture. By operating the button 602, a drawing screen (not shown) is displayed on the display unit 211, and a picture can be drawn. This picture can be saved. A button 605 is operated to terminate the application software screen 601 .

[0021] The button 603 is a button that is operated when selecting a scanner. By operating the button 603, a scanner selection screen 611 shown in FIG. 6B is displayed on the display unit 211. The scanner selection screen 611 includes an icon 612, a button 613, and a button 614. The icon 612 is an icon indicating the image processing device 105 that is registered in advance in the OS 412, and is selectable. By selecting the icon 612 and operating the button 613, the use of the image processing device 105 indicated by the icon 612 is determined. Thereafter, the scanner selection screen 611 is closed, and the state returns to the state where the application software screen 601 is displayed again. At this time, the OS 412 requests the image processing device 105 to provide information on the scanner capability, that is, on the reading unit 514 of the image processing device 105. The image processing device 105 that has received this request provides, for example, information 701 shown in FIG. 7A to the information processing device 104 as information on the reading unit 316 (reading unit 514) of the image processing device 105. The information 701 is written in a markup language such as XML. A memory map 702 shown in FIG. 7B is a memory map of the ROM / RAM 307 of the image processing device 105. In the memory map 702, information related to the reading unit 316 is held as first information (basic information) in an area 703. In this embodiment, the first information is the information 701. When the OS 412 requests the image processing device 105 to provide scanner capability to an IP address on the network of the image processing device 105, the image processing device 105 responds with the information 701 held as the first information in the area 703. Note that, when the button 614 is operated without selecting the icon 612, the use of the image processing device 105 indicated by the icon 612 is not determined, the scanner selection screen 611 is closed, and the state returns to the state where the application software screen 601 is displayed.

[0022] The button 604 is a button that is operated when capturing an image. By operating the button 604, a scanner driver screen 621 shown in FIG. 6(c) is displayed on the display unit 211. The scanner driver screen 621 includes an operation area 622, an operation area 623, an operation area 624, an operation area 625, an operation area 626, an operation area 627, an operation area 628, an operation area 629, an operation area 630, a button 631, and a button 632. In the operation areas 624 to 630, a first capability (common function) that can be executed by the reading unit 316 can be selected. The operation area 622 is an area that displays, as reference information, an IP address (Target IP Address) that indicates the address on the network of the image processing device 105 that indicates the icon 612 selected by the button 603. The operation area 623 is an area that displays a file name when the image read by the reading unit 316 is saved. The file name in operation area 623 can be updated to an arbitrary file name by inputting the arbitrary file name from input unit 212.

[0023] The operation area 624 is an area for selecting the format of the image read by the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621A shown in FIG. 8(a), "JPEG" is selected from among "JPEG", "PDF", and "TIFF" included as options in the operation area 624. The operation area 625 is an area for switching the reading unit 316. The reading unit 316 has a platen and a feeder (ADF) that dynamically feeds paper to be read. In the operation area 625, it is possible to select whether to use the platen (Platen) or the feeder (Feeder) for image reading. In addition, in the operation area 625, when using the feeder, it is also possible to select either single-sided reading (simplex) or double-sided reading (duplex). In the scanner driver screen 621B shown in FIG. 8(b), "Platen" is selected from among "Platen", "Feeder (simplex)", and "Feeder (duplex)" included as options in the operation area 625. The operation area 626 is an area for switching color information of an image read by the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621C shown in FIG. 8(c), "RGB24" is selected from "RGB24", "GrayScale8", and "BlackAndWhite1" included as options in the operation area 626. "RGB24" refers to expression of 24 bits in total, with 8 bits (256 gradations) of Red, 8 bits (256 gradations) of Green, and 8 bits (256 gradations) of Blue per dot. "GrayScale8" refers to expression of 8 bits (256 gradations) of light and dark information per dot. "BlackAndWhite1" refers to expression of 1 bit (2 gradations) per dot.

[0024] The operation area 627 is an area for switching the size of the image read by the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621D shown in FIG. 8(d), "A4" is selected from among "A4", "A5", and other options included in the operation area 627. The operation area 628 is an area for switching the resolution of the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621E shown in FIG. 8(e), "300" is selected from among "75", "300", "1200", and other options included in the operation area 628. Resolution is generally expressed in dots per inch. The operation area 629 is an area for switching the purpose of use of the image read by the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621F shown in FIG. 8(f), "Document" is selected from among "Document", "Photo", "TextAndGraphic", "Preview", and "Auto" included as options in the operation area 629. Note that "TextAndGraphic" means a mixture of text and photos. "Auto" means automatic setting. The operation area 630 is an area for switching the type of the document set in the reading unit 316. In the scanner driver screen 621G shown in FIG. 8(g), "Photo" is selected from among "Photo", "Text", "TextAndGraphic", "Halftone", "Thru", and "Auto" included as options in the operation area 630. "Thru" means an image that does not require processing. In the image processing device 105, the optimum image processing method can be selected by combining the switching in the operation area 629 and the switching in the operation area 630. By operating the button 631, the reading unit 316 optically reads the document set in the reading unit 316, digitizes the read image, and provides the image data to the information processing device 104. Also, by operating the button 632, the scanner driver screen 621 is closed and the application software screen 601 is displayed again.

[0025] <Processing Executed by the Image Forming Device> As described above, in this embodiment, there are a first capability and a second capability as scanner capabilities. The first capability is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of image processing devices 105, and is a capability that can be executed as standard by the reading unit 316 of the image processing device 105 of each manufacturer. Information on this first capability is the first information. The second capability is set in a specific manufacturer of image processing devices 105, and is a capability that can be executed by the reading unit 316 of the image processing device 105 of the specific manufacturer. Information on this second capability is the second information. Therefore, the first capability can be executed in common among the image processing devices 105 of a plurality of manufacturers. In contrast, the situation is different with regard to the execution of the second capability. Specifically, the image processing device 105 of a certain manufacturer A can execute the second capability, but the image processing device 105 of a manufacturer B different from the manufacturer A may not be able to fully handle the execution of the second capability, that is, may not be able to execute the second capability.

[0026] Therefore, in this embodiment, it is possible to reduce the occurrence of such a situation. The configuration and operation will be described below. Fig. 9 is a flowchart showing a process executed in common by image forming apparatuses of multiple manufacturers. As shown in Fig. 9, in step S901, the power supply of the image processing apparatus 105 is turned on, making the image processing apparatus 105 operable, and the process starts.

[0027] In step S902, the OS 512 of the image processing device 105 instructs the configuration control unit 518 to check the configuration of various optional devices constituting the reading unit 316. For example, the OS 512 checks the presence or absence of the following configurations as optional devices of the reading unit 316. The first is whether or not there is a document tray that lays the documents to be read flat one by one and optically reads the documents. The second is whether or not there is an ADF (automatic document feeder) that automatically optically reads the documents one by one by setting the documents to be read as a stack in a paper feed port. The third is whether the ADF reads one side of the document or both sides of the document. The fourth is whether or not the ADF supports long paper that exceeds a specified size such as A size or B size. Then, the OS 512 determines whether the configuration of the optional device can be processed as the first capability or the second capability, and stores the result (the first information or the second information) in the ROM / RAM 307 so that it can be referenced when generating the capability XML. After executing step S902, the process proceeds to step S903.

[0028] In step S903, the OS 512 instructs the configuration control unit 518 to generate a capability XML in which the first information and the second information stored in step S902 are expressed in a markup language. The capability XML is stored in the ROM / RAM 307. If the information stored in step S902 is only the first information of the first information and the second information, the information 701 shown in FIG. 7(a) is generated as the capability XML. On the other hand, if the information stored in step S902 is both the first information and the second information, the information 1201 shown in FIG. 12(a) and the information 1202 shown in FIG. 12(b) are generated as the capability XML. Note that FIG. 12(a) and FIG. 12(b) are drawn separately due to the relationship between the document layout. Also, the memory map 1205 shown in FIG. 12(b) is a memory map of the ROM / RAM 307 of the image processing device 105. In the memory map 1205, information relating to the reading unit 316 is held in an area 1206 as the first information (information 701).

[0029] In step S904, the OS 512 waits for an instruction from the user to the image processing device 105. As the instruction waiting state, for example, when the image processing device 105 is a multifunction peripheral, the display unit 313 may display a message indicating that an operation instruction is being waited for, or a message indicating that an instruction related to scanning from the information processing device 104 is being waited for. Then, in response to the instruction, any one of the processes in steps S905 to S908 is executed.

[0030] In step S905, if the OS 512 receives a copy or print instruction to the image processing device 105 in step S904, the OS 512 issues an instruction to the printing unit 315 to execute the copy or print process. After executing step S905, the process returns to step S904, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0031] In step S906, if the OS 512 receives an inquiry about the scanner capabilities of the image processing device 105 in step S904, the OS 512 returns the capabilities XML generated in step S903 to the information processing device 104. After step S906 is executed, the process returns to step S904, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0032] In step S907, if the OS 512 receives a scan instruction for the image processing device 105 in step S904, the OS 512 issues an instruction to the reading unit 316 to execute the scan process in accordance with the capability XML and the scan execution request job generated in step S903. Then, the OS 512 transmits image data acquired by executing the scan process to the information processing device 104. After step S907 is executed, the process returns to step S904, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0033] In step S908, if the OS 512 receives an instruction to turn off the power supply of the image processing device 105 in step S904, the OS 512 puts the image processing device 105 into a stopped state, and the process ends.

[0034] Fig. 10 is a flowchart showing the process executed by the information processing device 104. As shown in Fig. 10, in step S1001, the power supply of the information processing device 104 is turned on, making the information processing device 104 ready for operation, and the process starts.

[0035] In step S1002, the OS 412 of the information processing device 104 initializes the OS 412 itself and various device drivers such as the scanner driver 416. This enables the information processing device 104 to be used. After the initialization process, the OS 412 starts up, for example, the application software 415. At this time, a screen (application software screen 601) indicating that the application software 415 is starting up is displayed on the display unit 211. After step S1002 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1003.

[0036] In step S1003, the application software 415 waits for an instruction from the user via the input unit 212. Then, in response to the instruction, any one of the processes in steps S1004 to S1007 is executed.

[0037] In step S1004, if the application software screen 601 was selected in step S1003, the application software 415 displays a drawing screen (not shown) on the display unit 211. The button 602 is a button that is operated when drawing a picture. After a picture is drawn on the drawing screen, the data of the picture is stored in the external storage device 210 or the like. After step S1004 is executed, the process returns to step S1003, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0038] In step S1005, when the button 603 on the application software screen 601 is operated in step S1003, the application software 415 displays the scanner selection screen 611 shown in FIG. 6B on the display unit 211. The button 603 is a button operated when selecting a scanner. When the icon 612 and the button 613 on the scanner selection screen 611 are operated in order, the OS 412 instructs the scanner driver 416 to execute an acquisition process for acquiring the scanner capability of the image processing device 105 indicated by the icon 612. The configuration information management unit 422 of the information processing device 104 stores the scanner capability acquired by the acquisition process, i.e., capability XML, on the ROM / RAM 207. After executing step S1005, the process returns to step S1003, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0039] FIG. 11 is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing information related to the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 12(a) is a diagram showing a first capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 12(b) is a diagram showing a second capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 12(c) is a diagram showing a memory map of the ROM and RAM of the image processing device. FIG. 13 is a scanner driver screen. As shown in FIG. 11, in step S1101, the scanner capability acquisition process starts.

[0040] In step S1102, configuration information acquisition unit 425 of information processing device 104 (scanner driver 416) transmits a scanner capability request to the network address of image processing device 105. When image processing device 105 receives the scanner capability request, it can transmit the scanner capability to scanner driver 416.

[0041] In step S1103, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 (acquisition means) temporarily receives the scanner capability from the image processing device 105, i.e., capability XML, as information (first information) on the scanner standard capability (first capability). This enables the configuration information acquisition unit 425 to acquire the first information (acquisition step). Note that this acquisition is performed using a common protocol commonly set by multiple manufacturers of the image processing device 105. The common protocol is not particularly limited, and may be, for example, a communication protocol such as the eSCL protocol.

[0042] In step S1104, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the comment lines included in the first information (capability XML) acquired in step S1103.<!--」から「--> The text up to and including the "" will be treated as a comment.

[0043] In step S1105, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 (determination means) determines the presence or absence of second information in the first information, that is, the presence or absence of a second capability executable by the image processing device 105, based on the analysis result in step S1104 (determination step). Here, a case will be described in which the configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1201 shown in FIG. 12(a) and information 1202 shown in FIG. 12(b) as capability XML in step S1103. The information 1201 includes a comment 1203, and the information 1202 includes a comment 1204. Then, when the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the information 1201 from the beginning and detects the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1203, it determines that the second information is present, and the process proceeds to step S1106. On the other hand, when the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the information 1201 from the beginning and does not detect the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1203, it determines that there is no second information, and the process proceeds to step S1107. In this manner, in this embodiment, the information 1201 and the information 1202 are collectively defined as the first information, and the second information is included in the first information. Then, the presence or absence of the second information can be determined based on the XML. Note that the keyword is "Extra Capability Exist" in this embodiment, but is not limited to this.

[0044] In step S1106, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 interprets the comment 1204 as not being a comment. As a result, the description in the comment 1204 is treated as a second capability (extended capability). In this manner, in this embodiment, the second information in the first information is "<!--」から「--> " is expressed as a comment between "A" and "B", and is temporarily disabled. If the second information is not interpreted as a comment, it is treated as information about the second ability.

[0045] In step S1107, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 handles the first capability as a capability that can be normally executed by the reading unit 316. In this case, the first information regarding the first capability is, for example, the information 701 shown in Fig. 7(a). After executing step S1107, the process proceeds to step S1109.

[0046] In step S1108, configuration information acquisition unit 425 treats the second capability as a capability that is uniquely executable by reading unit 316. In addition to the second capability, configuration information acquisition unit 425 also treats the first capability as a capability that is executable by reading unit 316. After executing step S1108, the process proceeds to step S1109.

[0047] In step S1109, the configuration information management unit 422 stores the information acquired up until step S1109 in the ROM / RAM 207, and the process ends.

[0048] As shown in FIG. 10, in step S1006, when the button 604 on the application software screen 601 is operated in step S1003, the application software 415 (processing means) displays a scanner driver screen on the display unit 211. The scanner driver screen includes the scanner driver screen 621 shown in FIG. 6(c) and the scanner driver screen 1301 shown in FIG. 13. When only the information 701, i.e., the first information, is transmitted from the image processing device 105, the scanner driver screen 621 is displayed. On the other hand, when the information 1201 and the information 1202, i.e., the first information including the second information, is transmitted from the image processing device 105, the scanner driver screen 1301 is displayed. The scanner driver screen 1301 includes an operation area 622 to a button 632, similar to the scanner driver screen 621. In the operation areas 624 to 630, the execution conditions of the first ability can be selected. The scanner driver screen 1301 further includes an operation area 1302. The operation area 1302 is an area for selecting whether or not to execute edge emphasis processing, which emphasizes the edges of black characters included in the image of the document when the document is read by the reading unit 316 to make the characters look clear. The ability to execute this edge emphasis processing is not the first ability but the second ability. Therefore, in the operation area 1302, the execution condition of the second ability can be selected. In the state shown in FIG. 13, "ON" is selected from "ON (execute edge emphasis processing)" and "OFF (not execute edge emphasis processing)" included as options in the operation area 1302. When the first information and the second information are acquired in this manner, an availability process can be performed to make the first ability and the second ability available to the reading unit 316 (processing process). As the processing process, a process for displaying a scanner driver screen 1301 in which the execution conditions of the first ability and the second ability can be selected is performed. This allows the reading unit 316 to execute the first ability and the second ability. Note that, although the processing process is a process for displaying the scanner driver screen 1301 in this embodiment, it is not limited thereto.

[0049] Here, the edge emphasis process will be described with reference to FIG. 14. FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of a document to be read. As shown in FIG. 14, document 1400 is a rectangular printing paper on which black characters are printed. In document 1400, an inner rectangular image readable range 1401 is read by reading unit 316. When an area 1402 including a part of the black characters in image readable range 1401 is enlarged, enlarged view 1403 or enlarged view 1404 is obtained. Enlarged view 1403 is a diagram in which edge emphasis process is executed. Enlarged view 1404 is a diagram in which edge emphasis process is not executed. Comparing enlarged view 1403 and enlarged view 1404, it can be seen that the edge of the black characters is emphasized more in enlarged view 1403 than in enlarged view 1404, making the characters look clearer.

[0050] As shown in FIG. 10, in step S1008, the application software 415 waits for an instruction from the user for the screen, regardless of whether the scanner driver screen 621 or the scanner driver screen 1301 is displayed in step S1007. Then, it is determined whether or not the button 631 on the screen has been operated, that is, whether or not an instruction to read (scan) a document in the reading unit 316 has been issued. If it is determined that the button 631 has been operated, the process proceeds to step S1009. On the other hand, if it is determined that the button 631 has not been operated, the application software 415 closes the screen, and the process returns to step S1003, and the subsequent steps are executed in order. Note that if the settings of the operation areas 624 to 630 have been changed, the changes are saved in the ROM / RAM 207.

[0051] In step S1009, the application software 415 generates setting items for each operation area stored in the ROM / RAM 207 in the same format as the capability XML, and transmits them to the image processing device 105 together with the scan instruction in step S1008. This enables the image processing device 105 to operate the reading unit 316 and execute the document reading process in accordance with the instruction in step S1009. The image processing device 105 then digitizes the scanned image of the document and transmits it to the information processing device 104. After step S1009 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1010.

[0052] In step S1010, the scanner image acquisition unit 424 acquires image data from the image processing device 105. The output unit 426 transmits the image data to the application software 415. After step S1010 is executed, the process returns to step S1003, and the subsequent steps are executed in order.

[0053] In step S1007, if the OS 412 receives an instruction to turn off the power supply of the information processing device 104 in step S1003, the OS 412 puts the information processing device 104 in a stopped state, and the process ends.

[0054] As described above, the information processing device 104 can cause the image processing device 105 of a plurality of manufacturers to commonly read an image by acquiring the first information using a common protocol, that is, can cause the image processing device 105 to perform the first capability. Furthermore, when the first information includes the second information in a disabled state, the disabled second information can be interpreted to cause the image processing device 105 of a specific manufacturer to read an image, that is, can cause the image processing device 105 to perform the second capability. Thus, in this embodiment, the first information and the second information can be acquired using one common protocol, and the image processing device 105 can perform the first capability and the second capability. Note that, in this embodiment, the second information is included in the first information, but is not limited thereto, and may be present outside the first information, for example. When the second information exists outside the first information, the information processing device 104 acquires the first information and the second information, respectively.

[0055] <<Second embodiment>> Hereinafter, the second embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 15A and FIG. 15B. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiment will be mainly described, and the description of the similar matters will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the first embodiment except for the difference in the scanner capability acquisition process. FIG. 15A is a flowchart showing the details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in FIG. 10 in the second embodiment. FIG. 15B is a diagram showing information on the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 15B(a) is a diagram showing the first capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 15B(b) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. FIG. 15B(c) is a diagram showing the memory map of the ROM and RAM of the image processing device. As shown in FIG. 15A, in step S1111, the scanner capability acquisition process starts. Then, step S1102, step S1103 (first acquisition step), and step S1104 are executed in order, and after step S1104 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1115.

[0056] In step S1115, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 determines whether or not there is second information in the first information as a result of the analysis in step S1104, that is, whether or not there is a second capability executable by the image processing device 105. Here, an example will be described in which the configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1501 shown in FIG. 15(a) as capability XML in step S1103. The information 1501 includes a comment 1502. Then, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 (detection means) analyzes the information 1501 from the beginning, and can detect the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1502 (detection step). If the keyword is detected, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 determines that there is second information, and the process proceeds to step S1116. On the other hand, if the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the information 1501 from the beginning and does not detect the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1502, it determines that there is no second information, and the process proceeds to step S1117.

[0057] In step S1116, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 acquires address information "http: / / 127.0.0.0 / Extra" in the comment 1502. The address information is the address of the storage destination where the second information is stored. In this embodiment, this address information is included in the information 1501 (first information) as a character string using at least one of letters, numbers, and symbols. The configuration information acquisition unit 425 transmits a request for the second information to the storage destination of the second information. When the image processing device 105 receives the request for the second information, it transmits information 1503 (see FIG. 5(b)) including the second information to the information processing device 104. The memory map 1507 shown in FIG. 15(c) is a memory map of the ROM / RAM 307 of the image processing device 105. In the memory map 1507, information related to the reading unit 316 is held in the area 1505 as the first information (information 1501). Moreover, information including the second information (information 1503) is held in an area 1506. The information 1503 includes information 1504 (BlackCharMode) as the second information without being surrounded by comments.

[0058] In step S1117, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 handles the first capability as a capability that can be normally executed by the reading unit 316. In this case, the first information regarding the first capability is, for example, the information 701 shown in Fig. 7(a). After executing step S1117, the process proceeds to step S1119.

[0059] In step S1118, when configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1503 transmitted from image processing device 105, it acquires the second capability based on information 1504 in information 1503 and treats it as a capability that can be executed specifically by reading unit 316 (second acquisition step). Furthermore, configuration information acquisition unit 425 treats the first capability as a capability that can be executed by reading unit 316 in addition to the second capability. After executing step S1118, the process proceeds to step S1119.

[0060] In step S1119, the process ends. As described above, in this embodiment, as in the first embodiment, the first information and the second information can be acquired using one common protocol, and the image processing device 105 can be caused to perform the first and second capabilities. Note that, in this embodiment, the storage destination of the second information is included in the first information, but is not limited to this, and may be present outside the first information, for example. When the second information is present outside the first information, the information processing device 104 acquires the storage destinations of the first information and the second information, respectively. Furthermore, the information processing device 104 acquires the second information based on the storage destination of the second information.

[0061] <<Third embodiment>> Hereinafter, the third embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 16A to 16C, but differences from the above-mentioned embodiment will be mainly described, and similar matters will not be described. This embodiment is similar to the second embodiment except for the scanner capability acquisition process. Fig. 16A is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 10 in the third embodiment. Fig. 16B is a diagram showing information on the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 16B(a) is a diagram showing the first capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 16B(b) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 16B(c) is a diagram showing a memory map of the ROM and RAM of the image processing device. Fig. 16C is a diagram for explaining an example of calculation of address information.

[0062] 16A, the scanner capability acquisition process starts in step S1121. Then, steps S1102 to S1104 are executed in order, and after step S1104 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1125.

[0063] In step S1125, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 determines whether or not there is second information in the first information as a result of the analysis in step S1104, that is, whether or not there is a second capability executable by the image processing device 105. Here, an example will be described in which the configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1601 shown in FIG. 16B(a) as capability XML in step S1103. The information 1601 includes a comment 1602. Then, when the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the information 1601 from its beginning and detects the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1602, it is determined that there is second information, and the process proceeds to step S1126. On the other hand, when the configuration information acquisition unit 425 analyzes the information 1501 from its beginning and does not detect the keyword "Extra Capability Exist" in the comment 1502, it is determined that there is no second information, and the process proceeds to step S1128.

[0064] In step S1126, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 calculates address information from the item value "Model / SerialNumber" in the comment 1602. The item value includes "Model" and "SerialNumber" as the acquired first capability (standard capability) values. In this embodiment, "Model" is, for example, "Canon MF-100". "SerialNumber" is, for example, "C123456". The calculation of address information will be described with reference to FIG. 16C, but is not limited thereto. The value α is the value of Model, and "Canon MF-100" and each ASCII code are shown below each character. The value β is the value of SerialNumber, and "C123456" and each ASCII code are shown below each character. In the calculation of address information, the number of digits is set to 7 digits to match the shorter value β, and the ASCII codes of each digit are added up for each character and divided by 2 to calculate the value. The result is shown below the value γ. The ASCII code in the lower row is converted into characters and shown in the upper row of the value γ as "CIPQQ*A." Then, this value γ is used as difference information to the second capability (extended capability), and the address " / CIPQQ*A" of the image processing device 105 is calculated as address information for acquiring the second capability.

[0065] In step S1127, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 transmits a scanner capability request to the address " / CIPQQ*A" of the image processing device 105 acquired in step S1126. When the image processing device 105 receives the scanner capability request, the image processing device 105 transmits information 1603 shown in FIG. 16B(b) to the information processing device 104. The information 1603 includes information on the second capability, that is, the second information. A memory map 1607 shown in FIG. 16B(c) is a memory map of the ROM / RAM 307 of the image processing device 105. In the memory map 1607, information on the reading unit 316 is held as the first information (information 1601) in an area 1605. Also, a scanner capability set is held in an area 1606. The scanner capability set n includes an extended capability at the address " / CIPQQ*A" of the image processing device 105. The image processing device 105 transmits information 1603 as a capability XML in the area 1606. The information 1603 includes information 1604 (BlackCharMode) as the second information, not enclosed in comments.

[0066] In step S1128, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 handles the first capability as a capability that can be normally executed by the reading unit 316. In this case, the first information regarding the first capability is, for example, the information 701 shown in Fig. 7(a). After executing step S1128, the process proceeds to step S1130.

[0067] In step S1129, when configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1603 transmitted from image processing device 105, it acquires the second capability based on information 1604 in information 1603 and treats it as a capability that can be executed specifically by reading unit 316. Furthermore, configuration information acquisition unit 425 treats, in addition to the second capability, also the first capability as a capability that can be executed by reading unit 316. After executing step S1129, the process proceeds to step S1130.

[0068] In step S1130, the process ends. As described above, in this embodiment as well, similarly to the second embodiment, the first information and the second information can be acquired, and the image processing device 105 can perform the first capability and the second capability.

[0069] <<Fourth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the fourth embodiment will be described with reference to Figs. 17A and 17B, but differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and similar matters will not be described. This embodiment is similar to the third embodiment except for the scanner capability acquisition process. Fig. 17A is a flowchart showing details (subroutine) of the scanner capability acquisition process in step S1005 of the flowchart shown in Fig. 10 in the fourth embodiment. Fig. 17B is a diagram showing information on the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 17B(a) is a diagram showing a first capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 17B(b) is a diagram showing a second capability of the reading unit of the image processing device. Fig. 17B(c) is a diagram showing a memory map of the ROM and RAM of the image processing device.

[0070] 17A, the scanner capability acquisition process starts in step S1131. Then, steps S1102 and S1103 are executed in this order, and after step S1103 is executed, the process proceeds to step S1136.

[0071] A memory map 1706 shown in FIG. 17B(c) is a memory map of the ROM / RAM 307 of the image processing device 105. In the memory map 1706, information related to the reading unit 316 is held as first information (information 1701 shown in FIG. 17B) in an area 1704. When the image processing device 105 receives a scanner capability request to its IP address, it transmits information 1701 as capability XML in the position of area 1704. A scanner capability set is held in area 1705. The scanner capability set includes extended capabilities in the address " / Extra" of the image processing device 105. The image processing device 105 transmits information 1702 (see FIG. 17B(b)) as capability XML in area 1705.

[0072] In step S1136, the configuration information acquisition unit 425 transmits a scanner capability request to the address " / Extra" of the scanner capability set including the second capability. When the image processing device 105 receives the scanner capability request, it transmits information 1702 shown in Fig. 17(b) to the information processing device 104. The information 1702 includes information 1703 (BlackCharMode) as the second information, not surrounded by comments.

[0073] In step S1137, when configuration information acquisition unit 425 receives information 1702 transmitted from image processing device 105, it acquires second capability based on information 1703 in information 1702 and treats it as capability that can be executed specifically by reading unit 316. Note that when configuration information acquisition unit 425 has not acquired information 1702 or has not been able to acquire information 1702, it treats information 1701 as first information as it is. After executing step S1137, the process proceeds to step S1130.

[0074] In step S1138, the process ends. As described above, in this embodiment, similarly to the third embodiment, the first information and the second information can be acquired, and the image processing device 105 can perform the first capability and the second capability.

[0075] <<Fifth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the fifth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 18. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similarities will be omitted. This embodiment is similar to the first embodiment except for the second capability. In the first embodiment, "BlackCharMode" is given as an example of the second capability. In this embodiment, "SearchablePDF" is given as an example of the second capability.

[0076] <searchablepdf> FIG. 18 is a diagram relating to a reading unit of an image processing apparatus according to a fifth embodiment. FIG. 18(a) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 18(b) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 18(c) is a diagram showing an example of an original. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports a function for generating Searchable PDF, the information 1801 shown in FIG. 18(a) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104 as the second capability (extended capability). The information 1801 includes a comment 1802. The comment 1802 defines the capability of Searchable PDF. In addition, a scanner driver screen 1803 shown in FIG. 18(b) is displayed. In the operation area 624 of the scanner driver screen 1803, in addition to the options "JPEG", "PDF", and "TIFF", an option 624a "PDF (Searchable)" is further included.

[0077] As shown in FIG. 18(c), the original 1804 contains the character string "Text Sample" written in three different fonts. When SearchablePDF is turned OFF, that is, in normal PDF, the original 1804 is recognized as a single image. Therefore, even if the image contains the character string "Text Sample," it is not possible to search for "Text," for example. On the other hand, when SearchablePDF is turned ON, it is possible to search for "Text" using the application software 415.

[0078] <<Sixth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the sixth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 19. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similarities will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the second capability. In this embodiment, "EraseFrame" is taken as an example of the second capability.

[0079] <eraseframe> FIG. 19 is a diagram related to a reading unit of an image processing apparatus according to a sixth embodiment. FIG. 19(a) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 19(b) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 19(c) is a diagram showing an example of an original. FIG. 19(d) and FIG. 19(e) are diagrams showing the read image of the original shown in FIG. 19(c), respectively. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports the EraseFrame function, the information 1901 shown in FIG. 19(a) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104 as the second capability (extended capability). The information 1901 includes a comment 1902. The comment 1902 defines the capability of EraseFrame. In addition, a scanner driver screen 1903 shown in FIG. 19(b) is displayed. An operation area 1903a of the scanner driver screen 1903 includes "Off", "On", and "On(Book)" as options for EraseFrame.

[0080] As shown in FIG. 19(c), the manuscript 1904 has a character string "Text Sample" written in three different fonts. When the manuscript 1904 is read by the reading unit 514, for example, an image 1905 shown in FIG. 19(d) may be obtained. In the image 1905, the edges of the manuscript 1904 are shadowed and acquired as lines. Then, the EraseFrame function is used to obtain an image 1906 shown in FIG. 19(e). In the image 1906, the edges of the manuscript 1904 are shadowed and the acquired lines are erased. Note that, for example, when a book is read by the reading unit 514 in an open state, the center of the book may float above the manuscript table and become a shadow, which may be acquired as a line. In this case, the line in the center of the book can be erased by selecting "On (Book)" in the operation area 1903a.

[0081] <<Seventh embodiment>> Hereinafter, the seventh embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 20. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similarities will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the second capability. In this embodiment, "EraseOutOfFrame" is taken as an example of the second capability.

[0082] <eraseoutofframe> FIG. 20 is a diagram related to the reading unit of the image processing apparatus according to the seventh embodiment. FIG. 20(a) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 20(b) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 20(c) is a diagram showing an example of an original. FIG. 20(d) is a diagram showing a state in which the original shown in FIG. 20(c) is placed on the original platen. FIG. 20(e) and FIG. 20(f) are diagrams showing the read image of the original shown in FIG. 20(c), respectively. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports the EraseOutOfFrame function, the information 2001 shown in FIG. 20(a) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104 as the second capability (extended capability). The information 2001 includes a comment 2002. The capability of EraseOutOfFrame is defined in the comment 1802. In addition, a scanner driver screen 2003 shown in FIG. 20(b) is displayed. An operation area 2003a of the scanner driver screen 2003 includes options for EraseOutOfFrame: "Off" and "On".

[0083] As shown in FIG. 20(c), the original 2004 has a character string "Text Sample" written in three different fonts. As shown in FIG. 20(d), the original 2004 is read while placed on the original platen. For example, if a plurality of originals 2004 are stacked and placed on the original platen, the cover 2005a may not be closed sufficiently. In this case, for example, an image 2006 shown in FIG. 20(e) may be obtained. In the image 2006, the entire outside of the original 2004 is black. Therefore, if "On" is selected in the operation area 2003a of the scanner driver screen 2003 and the original 2004 is read without closing the cover 2005a, for example, an image 2007 shown in FIG. 20(f) is obtained. In the image 2007, the entire outside of the original 2004 is white, making it a good image.

[0084] <<Eighth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the eighth embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 21. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similarities will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the second ability. In this embodiment, "ErasePaperColor" is taken as an example of the second ability.

[0085] <erasepapercolor> FIG. 21 is a diagram related to a reading unit of an image processing apparatus according to an eighth embodiment. FIG. 21(a) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 21(b) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 21(c) is a diagram showing an example of an original. FIG. 21(d) and FIG. 21(e) are diagrams showing the read image of the original shown in FIG. 21(c), respectively. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports the ErasePaperColor function, the information 2101 shown in FIG. 21(a) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104 as the second capability (extended capability). The information 2101 includes a comment 2102. The comment 2102 defines the capability of ErasePaperColor. In addition, a scanner driver screen 2103 shown in FIG. 21(b) is displayed. An operation area 2103a of the scanner driver screen 2103 includes "Off", "On(Lv1)", and "On(Lv2)" as options for ErasePaperColor.

[0086] As shown in FIG. 21(c), the original 2104 has a character string "Text Sample" written in three different fonts. The original 2104 is colored paper. When the option in the operation area 2103a is selected as "Off" and the original 2104 is read by the reading unit 514, an image 2105 shown in FIG. 21(d) may be obtained. The color of the original 2104 is also reflected in the image 2105. On the other hand, when the option in the operation area 2103a is selected as "On(Lv1)" or "On(Lv2)" and the original 2104 is read by the reading unit 514, an image 2106 shown in FIG. 21(e) may be obtained. The color of the original 2104 is not reflected in the image 2106. The degree of removal of the original color can be changed between when "On(Lv1)" is selected and when "On(Lv2)" is selected.

[0087] <<Ninth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the ninth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 22. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similarities will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the second ability. In this embodiment, "EraseSpotColor" is taken as an example of the second ability.

[0088] <erasespotcolor> FIG. 22 is a diagram related to a reading unit of an image processing apparatus according to a ninth embodiment. FIG. 22(a) is a diagram showing the second capability of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 22(b) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 22(c) is a diagram showing an example of an original. FIG. 22(d) and FIG. 22(e) are diagrams showing the read image of the original shown in FIG. 22(c), respectively. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports the EraseSpotColor function, the information 2201 shown in FIG. 22(a) is transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104 as the second capability (extended capability). The information 2201 includes a comment 2202. The comment 2202 defines the capability of EraseSpotColor. In addition, a scanner driver screen 2203 shown in FIG. 22(b) is displayed. An operation area 2203a of the scanner driver screen 2203 includes "None", "Yellow", "Magenta", "Cyan", "Red", "Green", "Blue", and "Black" as options for EraseSpotColor.

[0089] As shown in FIG. 22(c), the original 2204 has the character strings "Red Text", "Green Text", and "Blue Text". The character string "Red Text" is printed in red. The character string "Green Text" is printed in green-red. The character string "Blue Text" is printed in blue. When the option in the operation area 2203a is selected as "None" and the original 2204 is read by the reading unit 514, for example, an image 2205 shown in FIG. 22(d) may be obtained. The image 2205 includes the character strings "Red Text", "Green Text", and "Blue Text". On the other hand, when the option in the operation area 2203a is selected as "Green" and the original 2204 is read by the reading unit 514, for example, an image 2206 shown in FIG. 22(e) is obtained. The image 2206 includes the character strings "Red Text" and "Blue Text", but does not include the character string "Green Text". By appropriately selecting the operation area 2203a in this way, it is possible to omit reading the character string of a predetermined color.

[0090] <<Tenth embodiment>> Hereinafter, the tenth embodiment will be described with reference to Fig. 23. The differences from the above-mentioned embodiments will be mainly described, and the description of the similar matters will be omitted. This embodiment is the same as the fifth embodiment except for the second capability. In this embodiment, "InputSize" is taken as an example of the second capability.

[0091] <inputsize> FIG. 23 is a diagram related to the reading unit of the image processing apparatus according to the tenth embodiment. FIG. 23(a) and FIG. 23(b) are diagrams showing the capabilities of the reading unit of the image processing apparatus. FIG. 23(c) is a scanner driver screen. FIG. 23(d) is a diagram showing a pattern when an option is selected on the scanner driver screen. When the image processing apparatus 105 supports a special paper size setting function in the ADF of InptSize, the information 2201 shown in FIG. 23(a) and the information 2302 shown in FIG. 23(b) are transmitted to the information processing apparatus 104. The information 2301 is capability information when the InputSource is the platen, that is, when the document table is used. The information 2302 is capability information when the InputSource is the ADF or the current process of reading only one side. The information 2302 includes a comment 2303. The comment 2303 defines the capability of the special paper size in the ADF of InptSize. In addition, the scanner driver screen 2304 shown in FIG. 23(c) is displayed. The operation area 627 of the scanner driver screen 2304 further includes the options "Mix (Same Wide)", "Mix (Free Wide)", and "Long Paper (ADF)". By selecting Mix (Same Wide), it is possible to set pattern A in FIG. 23(d) "Paper sizes loaded on the ADF are aligned with the same series of paper of the same width". By selecting Mix (Free Wide), it is possible to set pattern B in FIG. 23(d) "Paper sizes loaded on the ADF are aligned with different series of paper of different widths". By selecting Long Paper (ADF), it is possible to set pattern C in FIG. 23(d) "Use long paper such as New Year's calligraphy paper in the ADF".

[0092] Although the preferred embodiments of the present invention have been described above, the present invention is not limited to the above-mentioned embodiments, and various modifications and changes are possible within the scope of the gist of the present invention. The present invention can also be realized by a process in which a program for realizing one or more functions of the above-mentioned embodiments is supplied to a system or device via a network or a storage medium, and one or more processors of a computer of the system or device read and execute the program. The present invention can also be realized by a circuit (for example, ASIC) for realizing one or more functions. For example, the program may include a general-purpose program and an extension program. The general-purpose program is a program that can be used by the reading unit 316 in common with image processing devices 105 of multiple manufacturers. The extension program is a program that can extend the function of the general-purpose program. Note that the extension program may be a program that is installed as needed. When the program includes a general-purpose program and an extension program, the general-purpose program can acquire first information from the image processing device 105, and the extension program can acquire second information from the image processing device 105 (acquisition process). Then, when the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and the second information is acquired by the extension program, an availability process can be performed to make the first capability and the second capability available to the reading unit 316 (processing process). The second information may be included in the first information, or may exist outside the first information.

[0093] The disclosure of each embodiment includes the following programs, methods, and configurations. (Program 1) A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The program is an acquisition step of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol set in common by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; and a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step. (Program 2) The first information includes the second information in a disabled state, the program includes a determination step of determining whether the second information exists in the first information acquired in the acquisition step, The program according to Program 1, characterized in that in the processing step, when it is determined in the determination step that the second information is present, the available processing is performed. (Program 3) In the first information, the second information is in a disabled state using a markup language, The program described in Program 2, wherein in the determining step, the presence or absence of the second information is determined based on the markup language. (Program 4) A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, the program is an extension program capable of extending a function of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used by the reading unit in the image forming apparatuses of the plurality of manufacturers, an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; The program further comprises a processing step of performing an availability process in which the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and, when the second information is acquired in the acquisition step, the first capability and the second capability are made available to the reading means. (Program 5) A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading means for reading an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely to the manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The program is a first acquisition step of acquiring the first information from the image forming apparatus; a detection step of detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition step of acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected in the detection step; and a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means. (Program 6) The program according to Program 5, wherein in the detection step, a storage destination of the second information is detected based on the first information acquired in the first acquisition step. (Program 7) A storage destination of the second information is included in the first information using a markup language, The program according to program 6, wherein in the detection step, a storage destination of the second information is detected based on the markup language. (Program 8) In the markup language, a storage destination of the second information is indicated by a character string using at least one of letters, numbers, and symbols, The program according to Program 7, wherein in the detection step, the character string is detected as a storage destination for the second information. (Program 9) The program described in any one of Programs 1 to 8, wherein the processing step displays a screen on which execution conditions of the first ability and the second ability can be selected. (Program 10) The program according to any one of Programs 1 to 9, wherein the program is stored in a recording medium. (Method 1) A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, comprising the steps of: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The method for controlling the information processing device includes: an acquisition step of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol set in common by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; A control method for an information processing device, comprising: a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step. (Method 2) A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, comprising the steps of: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The control method of the information processing apparatus is capable of expanding a function of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used by the reading unit in image forming apparatuses of a plurality of manufacturers; an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and the second information is acquired in the acquisition step. (Method 3) A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted to and received from the image forming device, comprising the steps of: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely to the manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The method for controlling the information processing device includes: a first acquisition step of acquiring the first information from the image forming apparatus; a detection step of detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition step of acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected in the detection step; and performing a processing step of making the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means. (Configuration 1) An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading means for reading an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The information processing device includes: an acquisition unit capable of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol set in common by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; and a processing means for performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired by the acquisition means. (Configuration 2) An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading means for reading an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, the information processing apparatus stores in advance an extension program capable of extending functions of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used in the reading unit of image forming apparatuses of a plurality of manufacturers; The expansion program is an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; The information processing device further comprises a processing step of performing an availability process in which the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and, when the second information is acquired in the acquisition step, the first capability and the second capability are made available to the reading means. (Configuration 3) An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading means for reading an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely to the manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The information processing device includes: a first acquisition unit that acquires the first information from the image forming apparatus; A detection means for detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition means for acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected by the detection means; and a processing unit that performs an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading unit. [Explanation of symbols]

[0094] 104 Information processing equipment 105 Image processing device (image forming device) 201 Main Board 316 Reading unit 416 Scanner Driver 415 Application Software 421 Settings Management Department 422 Configuration information management department 425 Configuration information acquisition unit 514 Reading unit< / inputsize> < / erasespotcolor> < / erasepapercolor> < / eraseoutofframe> < / eraseframe> < / searchablepdf>

Claims

1. A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The program is an acquisition step of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol set in common by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; and a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step.

2. the first information includes the second information in a disabled state, the program includes a determination step of determining whether the second information exists in the first information acquired in the acquisition step, 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein said processing step performs said usable processing when it is determined in said determining step that said second information is present.

3. In the first information, the second information is in a disabled state using a markup language, 3. The program according to claim 2, wherein in said determining step, the presence or absence of said second information is determined based on said markup language.

4. A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, the program is an extension program capable of extending a function of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used by the reading unit in the image forming apparatuses of the plurality of manufacturers, an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; The program further comprises a processing step of performing an availability process in which the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and, when the second information is acquired in the acquisition step, the first capability and the second capability are made available to the reading means.

5. A program stored in an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the information processing device, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The program is a first acquisition step of acquiring the first information from the image forming apparatus; a detection step of detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition step of acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected in the detection step; and a processing step of performing an availability process for making the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means.

6. 6. The program according to claim 5, wherein in the detection step, a storage destination of the second information is detected based on the first information acquired in the first acquisition step.

7. a storage destination of the second information is included in the first information using a markup language; 7. The program according to claim 6, wherein in the detection step, a storage destination of the second information is detected based on the markup language.

8. In the markup language, a storage destination of the second information is indicated by a character string using at least one of letters, numbers, and symbols, 8. The program according to claim 7, wherein in the detection step, the character string is detected as a storage destination of the second information.

9. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the processing step displays a screen on which execution conditions of the first ability and the second ability can be selected.

10. 2. The program according to claim 1, wherein the program is stored in a recording medium.

11. A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, comprising: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The method for controlling the information processing device includes: an acquisition step of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol set in common by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; A control method for an information processing device, comprising: a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired in the acquisition step.

12. A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, comprising: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The control method of the information processing apparatus is capable of expanding a function of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used by the reading unit in image forming apparatuses of a plurality of manufacturers; an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; a processing step of performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program and the second information is acquired in the acquisition step.

13. A method for controlling an information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming device having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming device and the image forming device, comprising: In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The method for controlling the information processing device includes: a first acquisition step of acquiring the first information from the image forming apparatus; a detection step of detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition step of acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected in the detection step; and performing a processing step of performing an availability process to make the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means.

14. An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming apparatus having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The information processing device includes: an acquisition unit capable of acquiring the first information and the second information from the image forming apparatus using a common protocol commonly set by a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming apparatus; an information processing device comprising: a processing means for performing an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means when the first information and the second information are acquired by the acquisition means.

15. An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming apparatus having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, the information processing apparatus stores in advance an extension program capable of extending functions of a general-purpose program that can be commonly used in the reading unit of image forming apparatuses of a plurality of manufacturers; The expansion program is an acquisition step capable of acquiring the second information from the image forming apparatus; The information processing device further comprises a processing step in which the first information is acquired by the general-purpose program, and when the second information is acquired in the acquisition step, an availability processing step is performed to make the first capability and the second capability available to the reading means.

16. An information processing device that is communicatively connected to an image forming apparatus having a reading unit that reads an image, and processes information transmitted between the image forming apparatus and the image forming apparatus, In the image forming device, first information on a first capability that is set in common among a plurality of manufacturers of the image forming device and is standardly executable by the reading means, and second information on a second capability that is set uniquely by a specific manufacturer of the image forming device and is executable by the reading means are stored in advance, The information processing device includes: a first acquisition unit that acquires the first information from the image forming apparatus; A detection means for detecting a storage destination of the second information; a second acquisition means for acquiring the second information from the storage destination of the second information detected by the detection means; a processing unit that performs an availability process that makes the first capability and the second capability available to the reading unit.

Images