Electronic apparatus, information processing system, information processing method, and program

Abstract

To provide an electronic apparatus, an information processing system, and an information processing method that can enable a function of firmware to be updated after securing the consent of a user.SOLUTION: An electronic apparatus of the present invention comprises: a display control unit that displays, on a display, a first screen for displaying a first function of functions of firmware that can be installed in the electronic apparatus, and a second screen for displaying each of a plurality of second functions; a first enabling unit that enables the first function according to an operation through an input unit; and a second enabling unit that individually enables the second functions according to an operation, through the input unit, for each of the second functions displayed on the second screen. The first function is a function of not changing a user interface for a function the electronic apparatus already has, and the second functions are functions of changing the user interface for functions the electronic apparatus already has.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 6

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present invention relates to an electronic device, an information processing system, and an information processing method.

Background Art

[0002] Conventionally, in a multifunction peripheral (MFP) which is an example of an electronic device, a technique for automatically updating an application and firmware is known.

[0003] As such a technique for automatically updating firmware or the like, when installing an application from an app market site which is a website for distributing an application to an MFP, a technique for automatically updating necessary firmware is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 1).

[0004] Also, a technique for automatically updating an MFP when there is an updatable application on the app market site is disclosed (for example, Patent Document 2).

Summary of the Invention

Problems to be Solved by the Invention

[0005] However, when the firmware is automatically updated, the function is changed regardless of the user's intention, and there is a problem that it is difficult for the user to understand what function change has been made and the user is confused.

[0006] The present invention has been made in view of the above, and an object thereof is to provide an electronic device, an information processing system, and an information processing method capable of enabling a function after obtaining the user's understanding of the function of the firmware to be updated.

Means for Solving the Problems

[0007] In order to solve the above-described problems and achieve the object, the present invention provides an electronic device capable of acquiring firmware via a network, comprising: an input unit that receives an operation; a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a first screen that displays a first function among the functions of the firmware installable in the electronic device, and a second screen that displays, for each of a plurality of second functions different from the first function among the functions of the firmware, each of the second functions; a first activation unit that activates the first function in response to an operation via the input unit for the first function displayed on the first screen; and a second activation unit that individually activates the second function in response to an operation via the input unit for the second function displayed on each of the second screens, wherein the first function is a function that does not change the user interface of the functions already possessed by the electronic device, and the second function is a function that changes the user interface of the functions already possessed by the electronic device.

Advantages of the Invention

[0008] According to the present invention, it is possible to activate a function of updated firmware after obtaining the user's understanding of the function.

Brief Description of the Drawings

[0009]

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DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0010] Hereinafter, an electronic device, an information processing system, and an information processing method according to the present invention will be described in detail with reference to the accompanying drawings. Further, the present invention is not limited by the following embodiments, and the constituent elements in the following embodiments include those that can be easily conceived by those skilled in the art, substantially the same ones, and those within the so - called equivalent range. Furthermore, various omissions, substitutions, changes, and combinations of the constituent elements can be made without departing from the gist of the following embodiments.

[0011] In addition, computer software refers to a program related to the operation of a computer and other information used for computer processing that conforms to the program (hereinafter, computer software is referred to as software). Application software is a general term for software used to perform specific tasks among the classifications of software. On the other hand, an operating system (OS) is software that controls a computer and enables application software and the like to utilize computer resources. The operating system performs basic management and control of a computer, such as control of input / output, management of hardware such as memory and hard disks, and management of processes. Application software operates by utilizing the functions provided by the operating system. A program is a command for a computer, which is combined so that a single result can be obtained. In addition, what conforms to a program refers to something that does not have a direct command for a computer and thus cannot be called a program, but has a property similar to a program in that it defines computer processing. For example, a data structure (a logical structure of data represented by the mutual relationship between data elements) conforms to what conforms to a program.

[0012] Hereinafter, as an example of the electronic device according to the present invention, a multifunction peripheral (MFP) which is an example of an image forming apparatus will be described as an example, but it is not limited thereto. For example, the electronic device according to the present invention may be an information processing device such as a smartphone, a mobile phone, a PC (Personal Computer), a consumer electronic device, an industrial machine, an embedded machine, or a medical device. Note that a multifunction peripheral (MFP) is a device having a plurality of different functions such as a copying function, a scanner function, a printer function, and a fax function.

[0013] (Overall Configuration of Information Processing System) FIG. 1 is a diagram showing an example of the overall configuration of an information processing system according to an embodiment. With reference to FIG. 1, the overall configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0014] As shown in FIG. 1, the information processing system 1 includes an MFP 10, an app market server 20 (an example of a server), a contract management server 30, and a PC 40, which are communicably connected to each other via a network N. Among these, the app market server 20 and the contract management server 30 are included in the cloud C as servers that provide cloud services.

[0015] The MFP 10 is an image forming apparatus as an example of an electronic device capable of executing various functions such as a copying function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function.

[0016] The app market server 20 provides the MFP 10 with a list screen of a plurality of applications (hereinafter, may be simply referred to as apps) and firmware that can be installed on the MFP 10, and is a server that provides a cloud service of an app market site that causes the MFP 10 to download and install the app or firmware selected by the user.

[0017] The contract management server 30 makes a purchase contract with a logged-in user for paid apps and firmware, and is a server that provides a cloud service of a purchase site that manages the purchase contract status in association with a tenant ID, a user ID, and a device ID.

[0018] The PC 40 communicates with the contract management server 30 via the network N, and is an information processing device for making a purchase contract for a paid app or firmware to be installed on the MFP 10.

[0019] Note that the services provided by the app market site are not limited to being realized by a single app market server 20, and may be realized in a distributed manner by, for example, a plurality of server devices. The same applies to the purchase site of the contract management server 30.

[0020] (Hardware Configuration of MFP) FIG. 2 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an MFP according to an embodiment. With reference to FIG. 2, the hardware configuration of the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0021] As shown in FIG. 2, the MFP 10 includes an operation unit 11 that receives user operations, and a main body unit 12 that realizes various image forming functions such as a scanner function and a printer function. Here, receiving a user operation is a concept that includes receiving information (including signals indicating screen coordinate values, etc.) input in response to a user operation.

[0022] The operation unit 11 and the main body unit 12 are communicably connected to each other via a dedicated communication path 13. The communication path 13 can use, for example, one conforming to the USB (Universal Serial Bus) standard, but is not limited thereto, and can be of any standard regardless of whether it is wired or wireless. The main body unit 12 performs operations according to the operations received by the operation unit 11. Further, the main body unit 12 can also communicate with an external device and perform operations according to instructions received from the external device.

[0023] <Hardware Configuration of Operation Unit> As shown in FIG. 2, the operation unit 11 includes a CPU (Central Processing Unit) 811, a ROM (Read Only Memory) 812, a RAM (Random Access Memory) 813, a flash memory 814, an operation panel 815, a connection I / F 816, a communication I / F 817, and a bus 818.

[0024] The CPU 811 is an arithmetic unit that comprehensively controls the operations of the operation unit 11. The CPU 811 controls the overall operation of the operation unit 11 by executing programs stored in the ROM 812 or the flash memory 814, etc., using the RAM 813 as a work area (working area). For example, the CPU 811 realizes various functions such as displaying information (images) corresponding to inputs received from the user on the operation panel 815.

[0025] The ROM 812 is a non-volatile memory that stores, for example, the BIOS (Basic Input / Output System) executed when the operation unit 811 is activated and various settings. The RAM 813 is a volatile memory used as a work area of the CPU 811. The flash memory 814 is a non-volatile storage device that stores, for example, an OS (Operating System), application programs, and various data.

[0026] The operation panel 815 is a device having an input function and a display function that receives various inputs according to user operations and displays various information (for example, information according to the received operations, information indicating the operation status of the MFP 10, and setting information). The operation panel 815 is composed of, for example, a liquid crystal display device (LCD: Liquid Crystal Display) equipped with a touch panel function. Note that the operation panel 815 is not limited to the liquid crystal display device and may be composed of, for example, an organic EL (Electro-Luminescence) display device equipped with a touch panel function. In addition to or instead of the touch panel function, the operation panel 815 may be provided with an operation unit such as a hardware key or a display unit such as a lamp.

[0027] The connection I / F 816 is an interface for communicating with the main body unit 12 via the communication path 13.

[0028] The communication I / F 817 is a network interface for connecting the operation unit 11 to the network N and communicating with an external device connected to the network N. The communication I / F 817 is an interface that supports, for example, Ethernet (registered trademark) and enables communication compliant with TCP (Transmission Control Protocol) / IP (Internet Protocol).

[0029] The bus 818 is a transmission path that connects the above-described components to each other and transmits address signals, data signals, various control signals, and the like.

[0030] Note that the hardware configuration of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 is an example, and it may include components other than the components shown in FIG. 2.

[0031] <Hardware Configuration of the Main Body> As shown in FIG. 2, the main body unit 12 includes a CPU 821, a ROM 822, a RAM 823, a storage 824, a scanner engine 825, a printer engine 826, a connection I / F 827, a communication I / F 828, and a bus 829.

[0032] The CPU 821 is an arithmetic unit that comprehensively controls the operation of the main body unit 12. The CPU 821 controls the operation of the entire main body unit 12 by executing programs stored in the ROM 822 or the storage 824 or the like using the RAM 823 as a work area. For example, the CPU 821 realizes various functions such as a copy function, a scanner function, a fax function, and a printer function.

[0033] The ROM 822 is, for example, a non-volatile memory that stores the BIOS executed at the time of startup of the main body unit 12 and various settings. The RAM 823 is a volatile memory used as a work area of the CPU 821 or the like. The storage 824 is, for example, a non-volatile storage device that stores an OS, application programs, and various data. The storage 824 is composed of, for example, an HDD (Hard Disk Drive) or an SSD (Solid State Drive).

[0034] The scanner engine 825 is hardware that performs processing other than general-purpose information processing and communication in order to realize a scanner function that scans a document and reads it as an image among the image forming functions. The printer engine 826 is hardware that performs processing other than general-purpose information processing and communication in order to realize a printer function that prints on a printing medium such as paper among the image forming functions.

[0035] The connection I / F 827 is an interface for communicating with the operation unit 11 via the communication path 13.

[0036] The communication I / F 828 is a network interface for connecting the main body unit 12 to the network N and communicating with an external device connected to the network N. The communication I / F 828 is an interface that supports, for example, Ethernet and is capable of communication compliant with TCP / IP or the like.

[0037] The bus 829 is a transmission path that connects the above-described respective components to each other and transmits an address signal, a data signal, various control signals, and the like.

[0038] Note that the hardware configuration of the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2 is an example, and it may include components other than the components shown in FIG. 2. For example, it may include a finisher that sorts printed printing media or a specific option such as an ADF (Auto Document Feeder) that automatically feeds documents.

[0039] (Hardware configuration of an application market server, etc.) FIG. 3 is a diagram showing an example of the hardware configuration of an application market server according to the embodiment. The hardware configuration of the application market server 20 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 3.

[0040] As shown in FIG. 3, the application market server 20 includes a CPU 901, a ROM 902, a RAM 903, an auxiliary storage device 905, a media drive 907, a display 908, a network I / F 909, a keyboard 911, a mouse 912, and a DVD (Digital Versatile Disc) drive 914.

[0041] The CPU 901 is an arithmetic unit that controls the operation of the entire application market server 20. The ROM 902 is a non-volatile storage device that stores programs for the application market server 20. The RAM 903 is a volatile storage device used as a work area for the CPU 901.

[0042] The auxiliary storage device 905 is a storage device such as an HDD or an SSD that stores images and the like read by the MFP 10 using the scanning function. The media drive 907 is a device that controls the reading and writing of data to a recording medium 906 such as a flash memory according to the control of the CPU 901.

[0043] The display 908 is a display device composed of a liquid crystal or an organic EL or the like that displays various information such as a cursor, a menu, a window, characters, or an image.

[0044] The network I / F 909 is an interface for communicating data with an external device such as the MFP 10 using the network N. The network I / F 909 is, for example, a NIC (Network Interface Card) that supports Ethernet and is capable of communication compliant with TCP / IP or the like.

[0045] The keyboard 911 is an input device for performing operations such as inputting characters, numbers, selecting various instructions, and moving the cursor. The mouse 912 is an input device for selecting and executing various instructions, selecting a processing target, and moving the cursor.

[0046] The DVD drive 914 is a device that controls the reading and writing of data to a DVD 913 such as a DVD-ROM or a DVD-R (Digital Versatile Disk Recordable), which is an example of a removable storage medium.

[0047] The above-mentioned CPU 901, ROM 902, RAM 903, auxiliary storage device 905, media drive 907, display 908, network I / F 909, keyboard 911, mouse 912, and DVD drive 914 are communicably connected to each other by bus lines 910 such as an address bus and a data bus.

[0048] Note that the hardware configuration of the application market server 20 shown in FIG. 3 is an example, and it is not necessary to include all the components shown in FIG. 3, or other components may be included.

[0049] Also, although the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 3 has been described as the hardware configuration of the application market server 20, the hardware configurations of the contract management server 30 and the PC 40 also conform to the hardware configuration shown in FIG. 3.

[0050] (Software configuration of the information processing system) FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of the software configuration of the information processing system according to the embodiment. FIG. 5 is a diagram showing an outline of the functional configuration of the firmware to be updated. The software configuration of the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIGS. 4 and 5.

[0051] As shown in FIG. 4, the operation unit 11 includes an application market application 51, a browser 52, and an operation unit system 53.

[0052] The app market app 51 communicates with the app market site provided by the app market server 20 via the browser 52 and provides a function to download an app or firmware according to the user's operation.

[0053] The browser 52 is software that realizes functions such as web applications by obtaining web content (for example, HTML (HyperText Markup Language), CSS (Cascading Style Sheets), JavaScript (registered trademark), various electronic files, etc.) from the app market server 20.

[0054] The operation unit system 53 is software that controls the operation of the operation unit 11 other than the functions realized by the browser 52.

[0055] Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the main body 12 has a main body system 61, an image forming engine 62, and an image forming app 63.

[0056] The main body system 61 is software that controls the operation of the main body 12. The image forming engine 62 corresponds to the scanner engine 825 and the printer engine 826 described above. The image forming app 63 is an app that controls the operation of the image forming engine 62. For example, the image forming app 63 includes a copy app, a scanner app, a fax app, a printer app, etc.

[0057] As shown in FIG. 4, the ROM 822 is provided with a non-operating area 822b for temporarily storing the firmware downloaded from the application market server 20 and holding it in a state where it is not executed, and an operating area 822a for storing the firmware that actually controls the operations of the operation unit 11 and the main body unit 12. Among the functions of the firmware stored in the operating area 822a and actually executed, the software part that realizes the additional function (first function) is referred to as the additional function 64, and the software part that realizes the change function (second function) is referred to as the change function 65. Here, for example, the additional function refers to a function among the functions provided by the firmware that does not affect the operability of the user with respect to the MFP 10. Examples of the additional function include, for example, a reservation function for a copy operation and an interrupt function during a copy operation. Also, the change function refers to a function among the functions provided by the firmware that affects the operability of the user with respect to the MFP 10 (for example, a function that changes the UI of the operation screen displayed on the display unit 112). Examples of the change function include, for example, an initial setting function that involves a change in the UI.

[0058] Or, for example, the additional function may be a new function that is provided for the first time in that version of the firmware, or may be a major function that serves as the highlight to provide added value to the user in the firmware update itself. On the other hand, the change function may be a function that changes or corrects the functions of the firmware of past versions. The user or administrator, who is the user of the device, selects a certain version of the firmware from among the multiple versions listed on the operation unit of the device and performs a firmware update from the installed version to the selected version. At that time, for the additional function, a function description is displayed at the time of selection as a new function / major function in the firmware of the selected version, and the user can collectively learn about the new functions. On the other hand, for the change function, in order not to cause a sudden change to the user due to the change of the previous function and reduce the convenience, it is necessary to allow individual selection.

[0059] For example, the firmware stored in the ROM 822 (operation area 822a) has a functional configuration as shown in FIG. 5. That is, the functions newly provided by the firmware with a function version of V1.0 shown in FIG. 5 include additional functions (1), (2),... and modified functions (1), (2), (3),.... As will be described later, in the present embodiment, when the automatic activation setting is off and the all-function activation setting is off, when the target firmware is installed, for the additional functions, a dialog box is displayed to the user to collectively display the function explanations, and the user can select whether to enable the additional functions. For the modified functions, a dialog box is displayed to the user individually to display the explanations of each modified function, and the user can individually select whether to enable the modified function. The operations for enabling the additional functions and the modified functions will be described later. Here, enabling the functions (additional functions, modified functions) of the installed (updated) firmware may be referred to as activating hereinafter.

[0060] Also, as shown in FIG. 4, the PC 40 has a browser 71. The browser 71 is software that realizes functions such as a web application by acquiring web content (for example, HTML, CSS, JavaScript, various electronic files, etc.) from the contract management server 30.

[0061] (Functional block configuration of the information processing system) FIG. 6 is a diagram showing an example of the configuration of the functional blocks of the information processing system according to the embodiment. The configuration of the functional blocks of the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described with reference to FIG. 6.

[0062] As shown in FIG. 6, the operation unit 11 of the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment includes a UI (User Interface) unit 521 (an example of a display control unit), a list request unit 522, a screen request unit 523, an installation request unit 524, a UI unit 531 (an example of a display control unit), a setting unit 532, an input unit 111, a display unit 112, a communication unit 113, and a storage unit 114.

[0063] The UI unit 521 is a functional unit that causes the display unit 112 to display a Web page or the like according to the content acquired from the application market server 20. Further, the UI unit 521 accepts various operations (for example, link pressing) on the Web page by the user's operation input to the input unit 111. The UI unit 521 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the browser 52.

[0064] The list request unit 522 is a functional unit that requests the application market server 20 for a list of applications and firmware that can be installed on the MFP 10 in response to the user's operation input to the input unit 111. The list request unit 522 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the browser 52.

[0065] The screen request unit 523 is a functional unit that requests the application market server 20 for information on various screens to be displayed on the display unit 112 in response to the user's operation input to the input unit 111. The screen request unit 523 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the browser 52.

[0066] The installation request unit 524 is a functional unit that requests the installation of specified firmware from the application market server 20 in response to a user's operation input to the input unit 111. Here, in this embodiment, "installation" of the firmware means that the firmware is stored (updated) in the ROM 822 (specifically, the non-operating area 822b), the firmware is stored in the operating area 822a to be in an executable state, and activating functions (additional functions, modified functions) of the executable firmware, etc. are included in the concept. The installation request unit 524 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the browser 52.

[0067] The UI unit 531 is a functional unit that causes the display unit 112 to display a screen (for example, the home screen described later) for performing various operations of the MFP 10. The UI unit 531 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the operation unit system 53.

[0068] The setting unit 532 is a functional unit that sets various setting values according to a user's operation input to the input unit 111 in various setting screens (for example, the automatic update setting screen, the automatic activation setting screen, etc. described later) displayed on the display unit 112. The setting unit 532 is realized by the CPU 811 of the operation unit 11 shown in FIG. 2 executing the operation unit system 53.

[0069] The input unit 111 is a functional unit that receives a user's operation input. The input unit 111 is realized by the input function of the operation panel 815 shown in FIG. 2.

[0070] The display unit 112 is a functional unit that displays various information according to commands from the UI unit 521 and the UI unit 531. The display unit 112 is realized by the display function of the operation panel 815 shown in FIG. 2.

[0071] The communication unit 113 is a functional unit that performs data communication with the application market server 20 via the network N in accordance with the control of the browser 52. The communication unit 113 is realized by the communication I / F 817 shown in FIG. 2 and the CPU 811 executing a program.

[0072] The storage unit 114 is a functional unit that stores various data. For example, the storage unit 114 stores the setting information set in the automatic update setting screen, the automatic activation setting screen, and the full function activation setting screen described later. The storage unit 114 is realized by the RAM 813 or the flash memory 814 shown in FIG. 2.

[0073] Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the main body 12 of the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment includes a reservation unit 611, an update unit 612, a startup processing unit 613, an activation management unit 614, a determination unit 615, an activation confirmation unit 641, an activation processing unit 642 (an example of an activation unit, a first activation unit), an activation confirmation unit 651, and an activation processing unit 652 (an example of an activation unit, a second activation unit).

[0074] The reservation unit 611 is a functional unit that makes a reservation to enable the additional functions of the function version of the firmware after the update of the firmware for the function version of the firmware specified by the user. The information on the functions of the function version reserved by the reservation unit 611 may be temporarily stored, for example, in the RAM 823 or the storage 824 shown in FIG. 2. The reservation unit 611 is realized by the CPU 821 of the main body 12 shown in FIG. 2 executing the main body system 61.

[0075] The update unit 612 is a functional unit that updates and stores the firmware downloaded from the application market server 20 via the communication unit 113 in the non-operating area 822b of the ROM 822 (an example of a storage unit) shown in FIG. 4. The update unit 612 is realized by the CPU 821 of the main body 12 shown in FIG. 2 executing the main body system 61.

[0076] The startup processing unit 613 is a functional unit that, when the MFP 10 is started (or restarted), etc., copies the firmware updated to the non-operating area 822b of the ROM 822 by the update unit 612 to the operating area 822a and executes the firmware. As will be described later, even when the firmware stored in the operating area 822a is executed by the startup processing unit 613, the additional functions and change functions of the firmware will not be exerted unless the user performs an installation operation (an operation for activation). Therefore, a screen that prompts the user to activate the additional functions and change functions is recognized, and the functions are exerted for the first time after going through the activation process by the above-described installation operation. The startup processing unit 613 is realized by the CPU 821 of the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2 executing the main body system 61.

[0077] Note that, for example, even when an additional function or a change function is activated and each function of the additional function or the change function is exerted, it may be provided with setting information for determining whether to actually exert the function further. For example, even if the change function is activated, if the setting information for the change function is set not to be exerted, the change function is not exerted, and if the setting information is set to be exerted, the change function is exerted for the first time.

[0078] The activation management unit 614 is a functional unit that manages the maximum function version of additional functions that can be activated in the currently installed and executable firmware (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the maximum function version), and the function version of the additional functions that are activated in the currently installed and executable firmware (hereinafter sometimes referred to as the current function version). Here, when the function version of the firmware is V1.0, the function version of the additional function is also regarded as V1.0, and the function version of the change function is also regarded as V1.0. For example, when the firmware of "FW V1.2" is installed to be executable, the maximum function version is V1.2. That is, the firmware of "FW V1.2" has additional functions with a function version of V1.2. When the additional function is activated, the function version corresponding to the activated additional function is V1.2, which becomes the maximum function version. Also, for example, when the firmware of "FW V1.2" is installed to be executable on the MFP10, the maximum function version is V1.2. However, if only additional functions up to V1.1 are activated in the firmware, the current function version is V1.1.

[0079] The activation management unit 614 further manages which change functions of which function versions are activated. The activation management unit 614 is realized by the CPU 821 of the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2 executing the main body system 61.

[0080] The determination unit 615 is a functional unit that makes a comparison determination regarding the function version of the firmware, the maximum function version, and the current function version specified by the user. The determination unit 615 is realized by the CPU 821 of the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2 executing the main body system 61.

[0081] The activation confirmation unit 641 is a functional unit that checks whether there is an instruction to activate the current function version at that time in the MFP 10 and additional functions of function versions equal to or higher than the current function version. The activation confirmation unit 641 is realized by executing the additional function 64 of the firmware installed executable in the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2.

[0082] The activation processing unit 642 is a functional unit that activates the additional function of the firmware of the specified function version according to the installation (activation) operation on the input unit 111 by the user. The activation processing unit 642 is realized by executing the additional function 64 of the firmware installed executable in the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2.

[0083] The activation confirmation unit 651 is a functional unit that checks the activation status of the changed function that is currently activated and its version, and the changed function corresponding to the function version of the newly activated additional function. The activation confirmation unit 651 is realized by executing the changed function 65 of the firmware installed executable in the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2.

[0084] The activation processing unit 652 is a functional unit that activates each changed function of the firmware of the specified function version according to the installation (activation) operation on the input unit 111 by the user. The activation processing unit 652 is realized by executing the changed function 65 of the firmware installed executable in the main body unit 12 shown in FIG. 2.

[0085] In this way, by updating the pre-installed firmware and applications in an electronic device such as the MFP10, the latest functions can be added to the electronic device. In this embodiment, this mechanism is referred to as ACT (Always Current Technology). An electronic device equipped with the ACT function can acquire, as a firmware package via the network N, the latest functions that were not installed at the time of purchase and add the functions to the electronic device. Also, the firmware package for adding functions via the network N is updated and published at any time on the acquisition destination application market server 20 or the like. Therefore, the time lag from the development of the functions to be added to the electronic device to the installation of the functions can be reduced, and new functions can be added to the electronic device in a timely manner. Also, the cost for users to replace the electronic device itself in order to use the new functions can be reduced.

[0086] Note that each functional part of the operation unit 11 and the main body unit 12 of the MFP10 shown in FIG. 6 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional parts illustrated as independent functional parts in the MFP10 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured as one functional part. On the other hand, the functions of one functional part in the MFP10 shown in FIG. 6 may be divided into a plurality and configured as a plurality of functional parts.

[0087] Also, for example, in the operation unit 11, the functional part realized by the browser 52 and the functional part realized by the operation unit system 53 do not necessarily need to be clearly distinguished, and the functional part realized by the browser 52 may be realized by the operation unit system 53, or vice versa. Also, software different from the browser 52 and the operation unit system 53 may realize each functional part.

[0088] Also, although the activation confirmation unit 641 and the activation processing unit 642 are functional units realized by the additional function 64, it is not limited thereto, and software different from the additional function 64 (for example, the main body system 61) may have the functions of the activation confirmation unit 641 and the activation processing unit 642. The same applies to the activation confirmation unit 651 and the activation processing unit 652.

[0089] Also, as shown in FIG. 6, the application market server 20 according to the present embodiment includes a list response unit 201, a screen response unit 202, a designated version response unit 204, a communication unit 205 (transmission unit), and a storage unit 206.

[0090] The list response unit 201 is a functional unit that generates a list of applications and firmware installable on the MFP 10 in response to a request from the list request unit 522 of the MFP 10 and transmits the list to the MFP 10 via the communication unit 205. The list response unit 201 is realized by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0091] The screen response unit 202 is a functional unit that transmits information on various screens (for example, a home screen, etc.) to the MFP 10 via the communication unit 205 in response to a request from the screen request unit 523 of the MFP 10. The screen response unit 202 is realized by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0092] The designated version response unit 204 is a functional unit that responds to the main body system 61 of the MFP 10 with the functional version of the firmware requested for installation from the installation request unit 524 of the MFP 10. The designated version response unit 204 is realized by the CPU 901 shown in FIG. 3 executing a program.

[0093] The communication unit 205 is a functional unit that performs data communication with the MFP 10 and the contract management server 30 via the network N. The communication unit 205 is realized by the network I / F 909 shown in FIG. 3 and the CPU 901 executing a program.

[0094] The storage unit 206 is a functional unit that stores various programs such as applications and firmware, and packages combining these. The storage unit 206 is realized by an auxiliary storage device 905 or the like shown in FIG. 3.

[0095] Note that each functional unit of the application market server 20 shown in FIG. 6 conceptually shows the functions and is not limited to such a configuration. For example, a plurality of functional units illustrated as independent functional units in the application market server 20 shown in FIG. 6 may be configured as one functional unit. On the other hand, the functions of one functional unit in the application market server 20 shown in FIG. 6 may be divided into a plurality of parts and configured as a plurality of functional units.

[0096] Also, among the MFP 10 shown in FIG. 6 and each functional unit in the application market server 20, the functional units realized by executing various software are not limited to this, and at least any one of the functional units may be realized by a dedicated hardware circuit (such as an integrated circuit).

[0097] (An example of the screen and screen transition displayed on the MFP 10) FIGS. 7 to 9 are diagrams showing an example of screen transition. FIG. 10 is a diagram showing an example of a home screen. FIG. 11 is a diagram showing an example of a list screen showing an example of an application and firmware to be installed at an application site. FIG. 12 is a diagram showing an example of an installation screen for installing firmware. FIG. 13 is a diagram showing an example of an installation screen when the firmware has been installed. With reference to FIGS. 7 to 13, the screen and the flow of screen transition displayed on the MFP 10 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0098] First, with reference to FIG. 7, the transition operation from the home screen 1000 to the screen for activating additional functions and change functions will be described. As shown in FIG. 7, the home screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 112 of the MFP 10 includes an application site button 1002 for displaying a list screen (described later) showing a list of applications and firmware installable on the MFP 10, and a widget 1003. The widget 1003 is a display area and button for displaying the latest information of the MFP 10, and in the example shown in FIG. 7, it displays "There is the latest information on software update" and presents to the user that some software is updatable. As shown in FIG. 10, the home screen 1000 includes, for example, in addition to the application site button 1002 and the widget 1003, a copy button 1004a for executing copy processing, a scan button 1004b for executing scan processing, and a fax button 1004c for executing fax processing.

[0099] When the widget 1003 is pressed by the user, the UI unit 531 causes the notification dialog box 1500 (an example of the first screen) to be displayed on the display unit 112.

[0100] The notification dialog box 1500 is a screen for displaying specifically what firmware can be installed (or activated). For example, the notification dialog box 1500 is a screen for installing (or activating) the firmware with the latest function version. As shown in FIG. 7, the notification dialog box 1500 includes a screen shot display unit 1501, an explanation display unit 1502, and a detail button 1503. The notification dialog box 1500 shown in FIG. 7 is displaying the firmware of "FW V1.2".

[0101] The screenshot display section 1501 is a section that displays screenshots and the like of a screen showing the state in which the firmware displayed by the notification dialog box 1500 is operating. The explanation display section 1502 is a display section that explains the operation of the firmware. The detail button 1503 is a button for displaying an installation screen for performing the installation (activation) operation of the firmware.

[0102] For example, as shown in FIG. 7, when the user presses the detail button 1503 to install the firmware of "FW V1.2", the UI section 521 causes the display section 112 to display an installation screen 1300 (an example of the first screen) for installing the firmware. As shown in FIG. 12, the installation screen 1300 includes a screenshot display section 1301 that shows the state in which the firmware is operating, an explanation display section 1302 that explains the specific functions (additional functions, changed functions) of the firmware, a detail link section 1303 for transitioning to a screen that displays the details of the functions of the firmware, and an installation button 1304 for performing an installation process (or activation process).

[0103] In this way, the user can confirm the content of the functions (additional functions, changed functions) of the firmware described on each screen by checking the content of the notification dialog box 1500 and the installation screen 1300. Then, after confirmation, the user can first determine whether to activate the additional functions of the firmware.

[0104] Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when the user presses the installation button 1304 to install the firmware of "FW V1.2", after various processes (described later with reference to FIG. 17), the activation processing unit 642 activates the additional functions of the firmware, and the UI unit 531 causes the display unit 112 to display a change function dialog box 1510 (an example of the second screen) for activating each change function. That is, the user can select whether to activate the additional functions of the displayed firmware by operating on the installation screen 1300. For example, if the additional functions are not to be activated, the activation processing unit 642 may not activate the additional functions, and the UI unit 531 may cause the display unit 112 to display the change function dialog box 1510 by pressing the close button or cancel button on the installation screen 1300 or the like.

[0105] As shown in FIG. 7, the change function dialog box 1510 is a screen for individually activating the change functions of the firmware introduced in the notification dialog box 1500 and the installation screen 1300. The change function dialog box 1510 includes a screenshot display unit 1511, an explanation display unit 1512, a back button 1513a, a forward button 1513b, and an installation button 1514. The screenshot display unit 1511 is a part that displays screenshots or the like of a screen showing a state where the change function of the firmware introduced in the notification dialog box 1500 or the like is operating. The explanation display unit 1512 is a display unit that explains the operation of the change function of the firmware. The back button 1513a is a button for returning to the display of the change function dialog box of the change function displayed one before among one or more change functions of the firmware. The forward button 1513b is a button for proceeding to the display of the change function dialog box of the change function to be displayed next among one or more change functions of the firmware. The installation button 1514 is a button for activating the change function displayed in the change function dialog box 1510.

[0106] In this way, by checking the change function dialog box 1510, the user can check the specific content of the change function of the firmware. Then, after the check, the user can determine whether to activate each change function of the firmware or not.

[0107] Then, as shown in FIG. 7, when the user presses the install button 1514 to activate the change function of the "FW V1.2" firmware, after various processes (described later with reference to FIG. 17), the activation processing unit 652 activates the change function of the firmware. That is, the user can select whether to activate each change function of the firmware while selecting any of the change functions of the firmware through the operations in the change function dialog box 1510. For example, when the user activates only some of the multiple change functions, the user can display the change function dialog box corresponding to the target change function, press the install button to activate it, and for the change functions not to be activated, press the close button (see FIG. 7) without performing the above operations to close the change function dialog box.

[0108] As described above, by pressing the widget 1003 that displays the latest information of the MFP 10 on the home screen 1000, for example, an information dialog box 1500 that explains the latest firmware that can be installed (or activated) is displayed, so that the content of the firmware can be checked, and the additional function and the selection function can be individually activated, and the installation work can be easily performed.

[0109] Next, while referring to FIG. 8, activate the additional functions for the latest firmware introduced in the notification dialog box 1500, and then, in the change function dialog box 1510 displayed next, explain the screen transition operation when not all change functions are activated.

[0110] When the widget 1003 on the home screen 1000 is pressed by the user, the UI unit 531 skips the display of the notification dialog box 1500 and the installation screen 1300 shown in FIG. 7 because the additional functions of the firmware described in the widget 1003 have already been activated, and displays the change function dialog box 1510 for the change functions of the latest firmware that have not yet been activated. This allows for easy activation operations for the change functions of the latest firmware that have not been activated.

[0111] Next, while referring to FIG. 9, explain the transition operation from the home screen 1000 to the screen for activating additional functions and change functions via a route different from the screen transition shown in FIG. 7. As shown in FIG. 9, when the application site button 1002 on the home screen 1000 displayed on the display unit 112 of the MFP 10 is pressed by the user, the UI unit 521 causes the list screen 1200 showing a list of a plurality of applications and firmware installable on the MFP 10 to be displayed on the display unit 112.

[0112] The list screen 1200 is a screen that displays a list of a plurality of apps and firmware that can be installed in the MFP 10, and is listed as a button icon for installing each app and a button icon for installing each firmware. Here, the "installable apps, etc." concept includes not only apps, etc. that are not currently installed or activated, but also apps, etc. that have already been installed or activated. That is, on the list screen 1200, a list is displayed without distinguishing between apps and firmware. For apps, those that can be updated and those that have already been installed are displayed without distinction. For firmware, those that can be updated, those that have already been installed but whose functions can be activated, and those that have already been installed and whose functions have been activated are displayed without distinction. The list screen 1200 shown in FIG. 11 includes a firmware button 1201a corresponding to "FW V1.0", a firmware button 1201b corresponding to "FW V1.1", a firmware button 1201c corresponding to "FW V1.2", and a firmware button 1201d corresponding to "FW V1.3" as buttons corresponding to the firmware. Furthermore, the list screen 1200 includes an app button 1202a corresponding to "App A" and an app button 1202b corresponding to "App B" as buttons for apps. Also, the list screen 1200 includes a management button 1203 for performing various settings.

[0113] Note that only a list of apps and firmware that have not yet been installed, or firmware with a function version that has not yet been activated, may be displayed on the list screen 1200.

[0114] Then, the user presses the button of the firmware or application that the user desires to install from the list shown on the list screen 1200 displayed by the UI unit 521. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the user presses the firmware button 1201c to install the firmware of "FW V1.2", the UI unit 521 causes the display unit 112 to display an installation screen 1300 for installing the firmware.

[0115] The layout and functions of the installation screen 1300 are as described above. For example, as shown in FIG. 9, when the user touches the detailed link section 1303, the UI unit 521 causes the display unit 112 to display a detailed screen 1400 that displays the functions of the firmware in detail. The detailed screen 1400 is a screen that displays a detailed explanation of the functions newly added in "FW V1.2".

[0116] Here, the details of the installation screen will be described. Assume that the firmware with a function version of V1.0 is installed in the MFP 10, and the additional functions corresponding to the function version V1.0 are activated. In this case, the maximum function version is V1.0, and the current function version is also V1.0. Furthermore, assume that all the modified functions corresponding to the function version V1.0 are also activated.

[0117] At this time, when the firmware button 1201c for installing the firmware of "FW V1.2" is pressed on the list screen 1200, the installation screen 1300 of the firmware of "FW V1.2" shown in FIG. 12 is displayed.

[0118] Here, when the install button 1304 is pressed by the user, it becomes clear that the user desires to use the functions of the function version V1.2. Therefore, if the firmware of "FW V1.2" has not been installed yet, it is downloaded from the app market server 20 and installed, and the additional functions of the function version V1.2 are activated.

[0119] Also, on the list screen 1200, when the firmware button 1201a is pressed to install the firmware of "FW V1.0", the installation screen 1320 of the "FW V1.0" firmware shown in FIG. 13 is displayed. As shown in FIG. 13, the installation screen 1320 includes a screenshot display section 1321, an explanation display section 1322, a detailed link section 1323, and an installed display section 1324. The functions of the screenshot display section 1321, the explanation display section 1322, and the detailed link section 1323 are the same as the functions of the screenshot display section 1301, the explanation display section 1302, and the detailed link section 1303 of the installation screen 1300 described above. However, as described above, the state of the firmware of the MFP 10 is such that the maximum function version is V1.0, the current function version is also V1.0, and all the changed functions of V1.0 are also activated. Therefore, it is not necessary to install the firmware of function version V1.0. Instead of the install button 1304 shown in FIG. 12, the installed display section 1324 displays that it has been installed. As a result, the user can recognize that the firmware selected on the list screen 1200 has already been installed and the functions (additional functions, changed functions) of the function version of the firmware have already been activated.

[0120] Regarding the firmware displayed on widget 1003, if all updates, activations of additional functions, and changes to functions are completed, the display on widget 1003 for that firmware will disappear. However, if any of the additional functions or changes to functions have not been activated, there may be a problem with keeping it displayed on widget 1003 indefinitely. Therefore, after the firmware is first displayed on widget 1003, for a certain period (e.g., one week), if all additional functions and changes to functions have not been activated, a touch operation on widget 1003 may display the notification dialog box 1500 or the change function dialog box 1510. After a certain period has passed, even if all functions for the above-mentioned latest firmware have not been activated, the notification dialog box 1500 and the change function dialog box 1510 may not be displayed by touching widget 1003.

[0121] (Automatic update settings and automatic activation settings) FIG. 14 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic update settings screen. FIG. 15 is a diagram showing an example of an automatic activation settings screen. FIG. 16 is a diagram showing an example of a full function activation settings screen. With reference to FIGS. 14 to 16, the automatic update settings of the firmware, the automatic activation settings of the functions of the firmware, and the full function activation settings of the functions of the firmware will be described.

[0122] When the user presses the management button 1203 on the list screen 1200, the UI unit 531 causes the display unit 112 to display the automatic update setting screen 1600 shown in FIG. 14, the automatic activation setting screen 1610 shown in FIG. 15, or the full function activation setting screen 1620 shown in FIG. 16. Note that the list screen 1200 may have management buttons for displaying the automatic update setting screen 1600, the automatic activation setting screen 1610, and the full function activation setting screen 1620, respectively. Alternatively, when the management button 1203 is pressed, the automatic update setting screen 1600, the automatic activation setting screen 1610, or the full function activation setting screen 1620 may be displayed, and free transition may be possible among the automatic update setting screen 1600, the automatic activation setting screen 1610, and the full function activation setting screen 1620.

[0123] The automatic update setting screen 1600 shown in FIG. 14 is a screen for setting whether the MFP 10 automatically downloads and installs (updates) the firmware whose version has been updated from the firmware installed in the MFP 10 when the updated firmware is released in the app market server 20. On the automatic update setting screen 1600, after the user sets on / off and then presses the OK button 1601, the setting unit 532 stores the setting information in the storage unit 114.

[0124] For example, when the automatic update setting of the firmware is on in the automatic update setting screen 1600, when the installation request unit 524 of the MFP 10 receives a notification that the updated firmware has been released from the app market server 20 via the communication unit 113, the installation request for the firmware is automatically transmitted to the app market server 20. Then, the update unit 612 automatically downloads the firmware from the app market server 20 via the communication unit 113 and updates and stores it in the non-operating area 822b of the ROM 822.

[0125] The automatic activation setting screen 1610 shown in FIG. 15 is a screen for setting whether to automatically activate the additional functions of the firmware when the updated firmware is installed in the MFP 10. On the automatic activation setting screen 1610, after the user sets on / off and the OK button 1611 is pressed, the setting unit 532 stores the setting information in the storage unit 114.

[0126] For example, when automatic activation is off on the automatic activation setting screen 1610 and automatic update is on on the automatic update setting screen 1600, and when the target firmware has already been automatically downloaded and updated on the installation screen, if installation is pressed on the installation screen, only the activation process of the functions of the firmware is executed by the activation processing unit 642. Also, when automatic activation is on on the automatic activation setting screen 1610 and automatic update is also on on the automatic update setting screen 1600, an automatic installation request for the firmware is made by the installation request unit 524, and after the firmware is automatically downloaded and updated to the non-operating area of the ROM 822 by the update unit 612, the activation process of the additional functions of the firmware is also automatically executed by the activation processing unit 642.

[0127] The all functions activation setting screen 1620 shown in FIG. 16 is a screen for setting whether to automatically activate all the changed functions of the firmware when the additional functions of the firmware are activated. On the all functions activation setting screen 1620, after the user sets on / off and the OK button 1621 is pressed, the setting unit 532 stores the setting information in the storage unit 114.

[0128] For example, when the all - function activation setting is on in the all - function activation setting screen 1620 and the auto - activation is on in the auto - activation setting screen 1610, when the additional function is activated by pressing the install button 1304 in the notification dialog box 1500 and the install screen 1300 shown in FIG. 7, the activation processing unit 652 automatically executes the activation process for all changed functions as well.

[0129] (Operation of firmware installation and activation in an information processing system) FIG. 17 is a sequence diagram showing an example of the operation when installation is executed. With reference to FIG. 17, the flow of the operation of firmware installation and activation in the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment will be described.

[0130] <Steps S11 - S13> For example, at the time of startup of the MFP 10 or the like, the activation confirmation unit 641 realized by the additional function 64 of the firmware installed at that time checks with the activation management unit 614 whether the current function version at that time in the MFP 10 and whether an activation instruction has been given for the additional functions of function versions equal to or higher than the current function version. In the example of FIG. 17, it is assumed that the activation confirmation unit 641 has confirmed that the current function version at that time in the MFP 10 is V1.0 and no activation instruction has been given for the additional functions of function versions equal to or higher than the current function version. That is, the activation confirmation unit 641 confirms that the additional functions of function versions equal to or higher than the current function version (for example, V1.1) are invalid, that is, not activated.

[0131] <Steps S14, S15> The user presses the detail button 1503 via the input unit 111 of the MFP10 to display the installation screen 1300 of the firmware of function version V1.1 introduced in the notification dialog box 1500 through the notification dialog box 1500 displayed by the touch operation of the widget 1003 from the home screen 1000. Then, the screen request unit 523 of the MFP10 transmits a display request for the installation screen of the firmware of function version V1.1 to the app market server 20 via the communication unit 113.

[0132] <Step S16> In response to the screen display request from the MFP10, the screen response unit 202 of the app market server 20 transmits the installation screen information of the firmware of function version V1.1 to the MFP10 via the communication unit 205. The UI unit 521 of the MFP10 causes the display unit 112 to display the installation screen of the firmware of function version V1.1 based on the installation screen information received from the app market server 20.

[0133] <Steps S17, S18> When the user presses the installation button on the installation screen via the input unit 111, the installation request unit 524 of the MFP10 transmits an installation command requesting the installation (including activation) of the specified firmware to the app market server 20 via the communication unit 113. In this way, it becomes clear that the user desires to use the functions of the firmware of the function version confirmed by pressing the installation button on the installation screen.

[0134] <Steps S19 - S22> The determination unit 615 of the MFP 10 determines the magnitude relationship between the specified functional version of the firmware (i.e., V1.1) (the specified functional version) and the maximum functional version. Here, it is assumed that the specified functional version of the firmware is V1.1, while the maximum functional version is V1.0. In this case, the currently installed firmware cannot support the additional functions of the specified functional version of the firmware, and it is necessary to update with the specified firmware.

[0135] The specified version response unit 204 of the application market server 20 transmits the functional version V1.1 of the specified firmware to the MFP 10 via the communication unit 205 in response to the installation command from the installation request unit 524. The reservation unit 611 of the MFP 10 makes a reservation to activate the additional functions of the specified functional version after the update of the firmware for the functional version V1.1 of the firmware specified by the user. The information on the functions of the functional version reserved by the reservation unit 611 is temporarily stored, for example, in the RAM 823 or the storage 824 shown in FIG. 2. Then, the update unit 612 of the MFP 10 downloads the firmware of the specified functional version V1.1 from the application market server 20 via the communication unit 113 and updates and stores the firmware in the non-operating area 822b of the ROM 822. Then, after the firmware is updated in the non-operating area 822b by the update unit 612, the startup processing unit 613 of the MFP 10 restarts the MFP 10.

[0136] <Steps S23 - S25> Next, at the time of restart, the startup processing unit 613 copies the firmware updated to the non-operating area 822b of the ROM 822 by the update unit 612 to the operating area 822a and performs processing to execute the firmware. That is, the startup processing unit 613 activates the additional function 64 and the change function 65 of the firmware copied to the operating area 822a, respectively. However, as described above, the additional function provided by the additional function 64 and the change function provided by the change function 65 do not function unless they are activated. Therefore, at this point, the functions of the additional function 64 and the change function 65 are not yet in a state where they can be exerted.

[0137] Note that when automatic update is set to on by the automatic update setting screen 1600, since the latest firmware has already been updated to the ROM 822, the processing of steps S20 to S25 is skipped.

[0138] <Steps S26 to S29> The activation confirmation unit 641 realized by the additional function 64 of the installed firmware checks with the activation management unit 614 whether an activation (activation) instruction has been given for the additional function of the function version equal to or higher than the current function version V1.0. In the example of FIG. 17, it is assumed that the activation confirmation unit 641 has confirmed that the current function version at that time in the MFP 10 is V1.0 and an activation instruction has been given for the additional function of V1.1, which is a function version equal to or higher than the current function version (for example, confirmed with the startup command for the additional function 64 in step S24).

[0139] Then, the activation processing unit 642 activates (activates) the additional function realized by the additional function 64.

[0140] In addition, when automatic update is set to on by the automatic update setting screen 1600 and automatic activation is set to on by the automatic activation setting screen 1610, the latest firmware is updated to the ROM 822, and when the firmware is executed, the additional functions are automatically activated. In this case, for example, if the installation button on the installation screen is pressed by the user in step S17, at least the processes in steps S20 to S29 may be skipped.

[0141] <Steps S30, S31> The activation confirmation unit 651 realized by the additional function 64 of the installed firmware checks the activation management unit 614 for change functions that are not activated at this time (including not only the function version V1.1 but also change functions of older function versions).

[0142] <Step S32> Here, it is assumed that the activation confirmation unit 651 has confirmed that, as a result of the check against the activation management unit 614, all the change functions of the firmware of function version V1.1 are not activated (invalid).

[0143] <Step S33> When the activation confirmation unit 651 confirms that the change function of function version V1.1 is not activated, the activation processing unit 652 sends a display command for a change function dialog box (second screen) corresponding to the unactivated change function (for example, the change function dialog box 1510) to the UI unit 531. The UI unit 531 causes the display unit 112 to display the change function dialog box according to the display command.

[0144] <Steps S34, S35> When the user presses the install button in the change function dialog box via the input unit 111, the installation request unit 524 of the MFP 10 sends an activation command requesting activation of the change function of the specified firmware to the activation confirmation unit 651. In this way, it becomes clear that the user desires to use the change function of the firmware of the function version confirmed by the user by pressing the install button in the change function dialog box.

[0145] Note that it is not necessary to always activate the change function shown in the change function dialog box by the install button. If the user does not need it, the user can close the change function dialog box or select not to activate it by operating the cancel button or the like. In this case, the processes of steps S35 to S37 are skipped.

[0146] <Steps S36, S37> Upon receiving the activation command, the activation confirmation unit 651 confirms that the activation (activation) of the change function of the function version V1.1 shown in the change function dialog box is instructed. Then, the activation processing unit 652 activates (activates) the change function realized by the change function 65.

[0147] Note that when the full function activation is set to on by the full function activation setting screen 1620, when it is confirmed that there is a change function that has not been activated in step S32, the processes of steps S33 to S36 are skipped, and in step S37, the activation processing unit 652 may activate all of the confirmed change functions.

[0148] The processes of steps S33 to S37 described above are repeated for the number of change functions (including not only the function version V1.1 but also change functions of older function versions) confirmed not to be activated in step S32.

[0149] In the flow of the above steps S11 to S37, the operations of installing and activating the firmware are performed.

[0150] As described above, in the information processing system 1 according to the present embodiment, a screen (notification dialog box 1500, installation screen 1300, change function dialog box 1510, etc.) showing the functions of the firmware updated by the electronic device (for example, 10) used is displayed to the user, so that each function (additional function, change function) can be recognized. Then, by receiving an instruction to install (including activation) from the user on the screen, each function is activated. As a result, after obtaining the user's understanding of the functions of the updated firmware, the functions can be enabled, so that a situation where the functions are changed regardless of the user's intention can be avoided.

[0151] In addition, automatic update setting, automatic activation setting, and all-function activation setting are possible. According to the usage form desired by the user, the firmware can be automatically updated, or when the firmware is updated, its additional functions can be automatically activated, or when the additional functions are activated, all the change functions can be automatically activated. As a result, the convenience of the user can be improved.

[0152] In addition, for the firmware that has not been updated or activated, the display period by the widget 1003 or the notification dialog box 1500 is set to a fixed period (for example, one week). This can reduce the annoyance to the user.

[0153] Note that each function of the above-described embodiment can be realized by one or more processing circuits. Here, the "processing circuit" refers to a processor programmed to execute each function by software, such as a processor implemented by an electronic circuit, an ASIC (Application Specific Integrated Circuit) designed to execute each of the above-described functions, a DSP (Digital Signal Processor), an FPGA (Field-Programmable Gate Array), a SoC (System on a Chip), a GPU (Graphics Processing Unit), and devices such as conventional circuit modules.

[0154] Also, in the above-described embodiment, when at least any one of the functional units of the MFP 10, the application market server 20, the contract management server 30, and the PC 40 is realized by executing a program, the program is provided by being pre-installed in a ROM or the like. Further, the programs executed by the MFP 10, the application market server 20, the contract management server 30, and the PC 40 according to the above-described embodiment may be configured to be recorded and provided on a computer-readable recording medium such as a CD-ROM (Compact Disc Read Only Memory), a flexible disk (FD), a CD-R (Compact Disk-Recordable), a DVD, or an SD (Secure Digital) card in an installable format or an executable format file. Further, the programs executed by the MFP 10, the application market server 20, the contract management server 30, and the PC 40 according to the above-described embodiment may be configured to be stored on a computer connected to a network such as the Internet and provided by being downloaded via the network. Further, the programs executed by the MFP 10, the application market server 20, the contract management server 30, and the PC 40 according to the above-described embodiment may be configured to be provided or distributed via a network such as the Internet. Further, the programs executed by the MFP 10, the application market server 20, the contract management server 30, and the PC 40 according to the above-described embodiment have a module configuration including at least any one of the above-described functional units, and as actual hardware, the CPU reads the program from the above-described storage device and executes it, so that the above-described respective functional units are loaded and generated on the main storage device.

Explanation of Signs

[0155] 1 Information Processing System 10 MFP 11 Operation Unit 12 Main Body Unit 13 Communication Path 20 Application Market Server 30 Contract Management Server 40 PC 51 Application Market App 52 Browser 53 Operating System for the Operation Section 61 Main Body System 62 Image Forming Engine 63 Image Forming App 64 Additional Function 65 Modifying Function 71 Browser 111 Input Section 112 Display Section 113 Communication Section 114 Memory Section 201 List Response Section 202 Screen Response Section 204 Specified Version Response Section 205 Communication Section 206 Memory Section 521 UI Section 522 List Request Section 523 Screen Request Section 524 Installation Request Section 531 UI Section 532 Setting Section 611 Reservation Section 612 Update Section 613 Startup Processing Section 614 Activation Management Section 615 Judgment Section 641 Activation Confirmation Section 642 Activation Processing Section 651 Activation Confirmation Section 652 Activation Processing Section 811 CPU 812 ROM 813 RAM 814 Flash Memory 815 Operation Panel 816 Connection I / F 817 Communication I / F 818 Bus 821 CPU 822 ROM 822a Operating Area 822b Non-operating Area 823 RAM 824 Storage 825 Scanner Engine 826 Printer Engine 827 Connection I / F 828 Communication I / F 829 Bus 901 CPU 902 ROM 903 RAM 905 Auxiliary Storage Device 906 Recording Medium 907 Media Drive 908 Display 909 Network I / F 910 Bus Line 911 Keyboard 912 Mouse 913 DVD 914 DVD Drive 1000 Home Screen 1002 Application Site Button 1003 Widget 1004a Copy Button 1004b Scanner Button 1004c Fax Button 1200 List Screen 1201a~1201d Firmware Button 1202a, 1202b App Button 1203 Management Button 1300 Installation Screen 1301 Screenshot Display Section 1302 Explanation Display Section 1303 Detail Link Section 1304 Installation Button 1320 Installation Screen 1321 Screenshot Display Section 1322 Explanation Display Section 1323 Detail Link Section 1324 Installed Display Section 1400 Detail Screen 1500 Notification Dialog Box 1501 Screen Shot Display Section 1502 Explanation Display Section 1503 Detail Button 1510 Change Function Dialog Box 1511 Screen Shot Display Section 1512 Explanation Display Section 1513a Back Button 1513b Forward Button 1514 Install Button 1600 Automatic Update Setting Screen 1601 OK Button 1610 Automatic Activation Setting Screen 1611 OK Button 1620 All Functions Activation Setting Screen 1621 OK Button C Cloud N Network

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0156]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Claims

1. An electronic device capable of acquiring firmware via a network, comprising: an input unit that accepts operations; a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a first screen that displays a first function among the functions of the firmware installable on the electronic device, and a second screen that displays each of a plurality of second functions different from the first function among the functions of the firmware; a first activation unit that activates the first function in response to an operation via the input unit for the first function displayed on the first screen; a second activation unit that individually activates the second function in response to an operation via the input unit for the second function displayed on each of the second screens; wherein the first function is a function that does not change the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has; the second function is a function that changes the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has, an electronic device.

2. The electronic device according to claim 1, wherein when there are a plurality of the first functions, the first activation unit activates each of the first functions together.

3. The first function is a function newly added to the electronic device, The electronic device according to claim 1 or 2, wherein the second function is a function that changes the functions that the electronic device has.

4. The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 3, wherein the display control unit causes the display unit to display the second screen after the first activation unit activates the first function via the first screen.

5. a determination unit that determines the magnitude relationship between a designated function version, which is the function version of the firmware to be operated on via the input unit, and a maximum function version, which is the maximum function version of the first function that can be activated in the firmware updated in the electronic device; an update unit that, when an operation is performed on the function displayed on the first screen via the input unit and the determination unit determines that the designated function version is greater than the maximum function version, downloads the firmware displayed on the first screen from a server and updates a storage unit; further comprising The electronic device according to any one of claims 1 to 4, wherein the first activation unit activates the first function of the firmware updated by the update unit.

6. When the first enabling unit is operated on the function displayed on the first screen via the input unit, and when the determination unit determines that the specified function version is less than or equal to the maximum function version, the first function of the firmware updated in the electronic device is enabled. The electronic device according to claim 5.

7. When the server releases the firmware updated in version in response to an operation on the input unit, further provided with a setting unit for setting whether to automatically download and update the firmware. When the update unit is set to automatically download and update the firmware updated in version in the server, when the server releases the firmware updated in version, the update unit automatically downloads the firmware from the server and updates the storage unit. The electronic device according to claim 5 or 6.

8. The setting unit sets whether to automatically enable the first function of the firmware when the firmware updated in version in the electronic device is updated in response to an operation on the input unit. When the first enabling unit is set to automatically enable the first function of the firmware when the firmware updated in version is updated, when the firmware updated in version in the electronic device is updated, the first enabling unit automatically enables the first function of the firmware. The electronic device according to claim 7.

9. The setting unit sets whether to automatically enable all of the second functions that do not affect the operability and are not the first function among the functions of the firmware when the first function of the firmware of the electronic device is enabled in response to an operation on the input unit. When the second enabling unit is set to automatically enable all of the second functions of the firmware when the first function of the firmware of the electronic device is enabled, when the first enabling unit enables the first function of the firmware of the electronic device, the second enabling unit automatically enables all of the second functions of the firmware. The electronic device according to claim 7 or 8.

10. The update unit stores the firmware downloaded from the server in a non-operating area of the storage unit. An activation processing unit that, when the electronic device is activated or restarted, transfers the firmware stored in the non-operating area to the operating area of the storage unit by the update unit and causes the firmware stored in the operating area to be executed. The electronic device according to any one of claims 5 to 9, further comprising the activation processing unit.

11. An information processing system having a server that manages firmware and an electronic device capable of acquiring firmware downloaded from the server via a network, wherein the electronic device has an input unit that accepts operations, a display control unit that causes a display unit to display a first screen that displays a first function among the functions of the firmware installable in the electronic device, and a second screen that displays each of a plurality of second functions different from the first function among the functions of the firmware, a first activation unit that activates the first function in response to an operation via the input unit for the first function displayed on the first screen, a second activation unit that individually activates the second function in response to an operation via the input unit for the second function displayed on each of the second screens, and is provided with wherein the server has a storage unit that stores the firmware provided to the electronic device, a transmission unit that transmits information on the first screen or the second screen that displays the functions of the firmware installable in the electronic device for display on the display unit, and is provided with the first function is a function that does not change the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has, the second function is a function that changes the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has, Information processing system.

12. An information processing method for an electronic device capable of acquiring firmware via a network, an input step of accepting an operation, a display control step of causing a display unit to display a first screen that displays a first function among the functions of the firmware installable in the electronic device, and a second screen that displays each of a plurality of second functions different from the first function among the functions of the firmware, a first activation step of activating the first function in response to the operation for the first function displayed on the first screen, a second activation step of individually activating the second function in response to the operation for the second function displayed on each of the second screens, and has The first function is a function that does not change the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has, The second function is a function that changes the user interface of the functions that the electronic device already has, An information processing method.

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